The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks

I just finished this novel. I had already seen the movie, but wanted to finish the book because I borrowed it from the library and it was due today. It didn't take long to read the book, but while I was read it, I was  not totally involved. I don't particularly like the story, not because he is a war vet or because she is a teacher, but because the characters are quite static. There is no great revelation, and while there is a death, because there is always a death in every Nicholas Sparks book, it really isn't that gripping. I am sure that old Nick wants to pump out novels while he is hot, but this is really just a miss, at least for me. I was not impressed and I am really glad that I was able to take it back to the library and did not get stuck spending my own money on it.

Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris

I wasn't sure what to read when I grabbed this book from the overwhelming stack sitting in the guest bedroom that houses just books now. Fortunately, I picked Me Talk Pretty One Day because I thought it might be something that would be entertaining. Honestly, I laughed out loud and nearly cried many times while reading the witty essays. There were times when I wanted to share the book with others and times when I thought I should keep it for reference for something else, including my ENG 090 class. I was afraid one would take offense and I would get in trouble, though.

I think my favorite essay was the final one about Sedaris's father's obsession with hoarding food until it was unrecognizable and then eating it. I laughed and laughed. I was talking about this book at work and a coworker told me that she had read some of Sedaris's other works but not this one. I couldn't wait to rush home, finish it, and take it back to her. I was excited to share the book, happy to give that little bit of my life to her.

Read and enjoy!

The Vow by Kimmer and Krickitt Carpenter

I watched this movie and LOVED it. I am anxiously awaiting when it comes out on blu-ray because I want to buy it and keep it forever. I read the book because I heard that there was more to the story that wasn't revealed in the movie. The source was correct. The movie makes the husband seem perfect and the book sheds light on his being human. The book is actually VERY different than the movie. It is more focused on Krickitt (the wife) and her prayer journal and spiritual life rather than just the time when the memory was lost. It is actually really beautiful. It inspired me and made me want to be as devout as she was. The courtship between Krickitt and Kimmer was this beautiful story.  Don't read on if you don't want the book spoiled.

They met when Kim was a coach for a college baseball team and Krickitt worked for a sports business. They talked on the phone, then wrote letters, then exchanged photos, then met in person. It seemed like a true courtship, with both of them being virgins when they were married. The book was great, not better than the movie, but quite different. I enjoyed it and I highly recommend it.

Romancing the Dead by Tate Hallaway

I bought this book for $2.99 from a discount store, and trust me, it was too much. I read this book, only because I had started it and I felt like it was wasteful to just stop reading it. I wish I had. It referred to gods and goddesses and vampires that were turned through alchemy and witches. All I can say is: don't waste your time.