Here are my favorite books from December:
The Fog Diver by Joel Ross
This middle-grade adventure story was Henry's favorite Bluebonnet nominee this year and one that he couldn't wait for me to read so we could discuss. Set in a dystopian future where a poisonous fog covers the planet, humans exist only on mountaintops, above the reach of the dangerous fog. Chess and his crewmates on a salvage vessel are racing to find a cure for their adoptive mother... and keep Chess's secret hidden from the evil Lord Kodoc.
The Boys in the Boat by Daniel Brown
I tried reading this book on paper and couldn't get into it, but the story comes to life on audio! This is the true story of the University of Washington's eight-man rowing team and their quest for gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Who knew I would ever care about rowing? Incredible story.
The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith
Galbraith is J.K. Rowling's pen name, and this was her first novel for adults. I listened to this an audio as well, and was drawn in to detective Cormoran Strike's world as he investigates Lula Landry's death.
From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg
The boys and I had to read this over break for Name That Book Club, so we chose to listen to it on our drive to Palestine for the Polar Express. Claudia Kincaid and her brother run away to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and while there, get caught up in the mystery of an angel statue recently acquired by the museum. This Newberry winner was a favorite of mine as a kid and it was a hit with the whole family.
Frindle by Andrew Clements
We all listened to Frindle on the way to a hiking adventure. Frindle is funny and creative and I love that it explores language and the power of words.
The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver
I had never read Kingsolver's first novel, but it was fantastic. Taylor Greer sets out to escape her small Kentucky town and makes it to Tucson, Arizona, where she finds love and friendship in her new home. It feels very timely in our current political climate.
When Friendship Followed Me Home by Paul Griffin
This middle-grade novel deals with loss and is heart-wrenching. Ben Coffin is a former foster kid who forges friendships with the librarian's daughter and a scruffy pup. Sweet and sad, it's a good read for dog lovers out there.
Before the Fall by Noah Hawley
This book got so much buzz over the summer, and I found it un-put-down-able. Eleven passengers board a plane on Martha's Vineyard and 16 minutes after take off, it crashes into the sea, leaving two survivors behind. The story alternates between the aftermath of the tragedy and the the victims' backstories. It's a quick, enjoyable read.
What have you read lately?
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