Talking to Strangers by Malcolm Gladwell

Talking to Strangers: What We Should Know about the People We Don't Know

Time for an audiobook! Why an audiobook you ask? You hear the voices of the people interviewed, re-enactments of trials, and historical soundbites. I think it adds to the narrative.

Some essential questions are asked and answered: How do we make sense of strangers? What goes through your mind when you meet someone? Why do we believe the lies people tell? Why are there so many misunderstandings and why aren’t we learning from our mistakes? Any of these issues spark your interest? In trying to answer these questions, Gladwell pulls from history and research. It is fascinating and will make you question your own perceptions. And while you may not agree with Gladwell's conclusions, I believe it’s a thought provoking read and can spark valuable conversations between friends and family.

The Book Charmer by Karen Hawkins

This is a heartwarming book, think vanilla ice cream with whipped cream and cherries on top. Then, add extra sprinkles. A sweet story with a touch of magic, it reminded me a bit of Sarah Addison Allen’s work (another author I highly recommend).

Sarah is no ordinary librarian. Books speak to her and she can place each book with the perfect reader. When Dove Pond, her lovable town, is in trouble, she will do anything to save it. Only she needs some help and the books know just who to ask.

Grace moves into town, a true city girl, she wants nothing to do with this small community. She hopes to be gone in a year. But she finds herself falling in love with the people around her and she may be the savior the town desperately needs.

The Lightbringer Series by Brent Weeks

Epic Fantasy! This is a series that needs to be read in order. Here they are: The Black Prism, The Blinding Knife, The Broken Eye, The Blood Mirror, The Burning White.

This series is complex, but I’ll try to give a brief explanation. In this world, magic is based on colors. Drafters can convert light into a matter called luxin. The luxin takes on different forms depending on the color drafted. The more you draft, the faster you die. Magic is tightly controlled by a corrupt Chromeria, the ruling body of the Seven Satrapies. Drafters are trained at the Chromeria. Each Satarapy has a representative on the high council, the Spectrum. (How am I doing? See why you need to read the book?!)

You follow many POVs. Two of the main characters are Kip and Gavin. They are both very witty and have an interesting relationship (you’ll see). Kip, a coming-of-age character, lacks self-esteem and lives with his addict mom. He is suddenly thrust into the main events of the kingdom when he is almost killed. Gavin is the Prism. He is the high priest and emperor and he knows his days are numbered.

NOTE: In the back of the book, you will find a character list and a glossary. Not the book for you if you don’t enjoy complex world building and a complicated magic system.