What We're Reading #3 and a Giveaway!

Hello!  And welcome to our 3rd What We're Reading Linky Party!

Ricki Jill from Art @ Home and I are happy to have you join in our Reading party this month.

I feel like I cut way back on my reading in April, mostly because I'm spending more time outside.

But I did read a few books I want to tell you about.

While working out I listened to another Stuart Woods book - Kisser. 

This was one of the more ridiculously crafted Stone Barrington novels.  Normally these involve a pretty good caper and intriguing characters.  Lately Stone's doing very little work because he's being seduced by numerous insatiable women.  Lucky guy, I guess.  I don't recommend this one.  Earlier Stone Barrington novels are better.

I also listened to this story on my iPad and I'd characterize Barefoot as a good Beach Read. 
Engaging story about two sisters and a friend who arrive on Nantucket for a summer.
Infidelity, parenting woes, cancer, job loss, and new love are woven together in a story that ends up being a satisfying, albeit not too challenging, read. 

I tried to read Jennifer Egan's The Keep (reviewed here) but couldn't get into the story.  I enjoyed A Visit from the Goon Squad much more.  The story jumps from decade to decade and back in seemingly unrelated tales but are all connected in a way to Sasha, an assistant at a music production company.  Loved, loved, loved the Powerpoint slide chapter - made me think of my youngest son.  This book is popping up on numerous 2010 "must read" lists.

Tea Obreht's debut novel, The Tiger's Wife, has been receiving great reviews.  I liked her writing style and will definitely read more by her. 

The New York Times listed her as one of their "Top 20 under 40" to watch.

This story is based in the present day in a Balkan country (most like Obreht's native Croatia).  The story is about a young doctor and her deceased grandfather, also a doctor.  The tale weaves together strands of seemingly unrelated stories that the reader can't be sure are myth or truth. 

I'm sure we'll be hearing about this author a lot in the years to come.

And finally, over Spring Break I read The Man Who Planted Trees.  David was given this book at a work conference and shared it with me.  It's a short fable about a man in Provence who planted 100 acorns/day in order to reforest his community.  Even 2 World Wars didn't interfere with the farmer's progress.  It's a quick read that offers up hope and compassion.  I enjoyed it.  A friend in Seattle sent me a link to the play that the local community theater is putting on based on the story.  I'd love to see it!

So, now I'd love to share The Man Who Planted Trees with you! 

Please leave a comment or send me an email if you would like to receive this book. 

I'll draw a name on the 25th!

So now it's your turn!

What are YOU Reading?

Link Up below!