Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy

Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy, by Mark Vroegop

40/60 | Started 06.11.25 • Finished 08.23.25 | 4.5 stars

Loved this book about learning to lament. Super helpful for a step-by-step description of how to properly process your own lament, followed by a walk through the book of Lamentations in light of this process. Love how it invites the reader to participate in his/her grief by turning to God first, and yes, asking and complaining, but following it up with trusting in him and his promises. Took off half a star for some repetetiveness, but I'm willing to chalk it up to Vroegop's pastoral heart and the desire to drive points home. Definite recommendation.

Jake Drake, Bully Buster

Jake Drake, Bully Buster, by Andrew Clements

39/60 | Started 05.30.25 • Finished 08.22.25 | 5 stars

"This book is about a boy named Jake Drake. And he was a bully magnet until 2nd grade, where instead of being called Jake Drake Bully Magnet, he was called Jake Drake Bully Buster. Jake found out that his bully Link was just a normal kid. My favorite part was that their project went well."

Carolyn, age 8

The Country of the Blind

The Country of the Blind, by Andrew Leland

38/60 | Started 08.04.25 • Finished 08.15.25 | 4 stars

A fascinating look at one man's experience of going blind, while also relaying the history of blindness in America. Leland skillfully weaves his own personal experience with political movements, social "accommodations", and scientific research. I picked this up because I heard him on a podcast interview and was really drawn to his use of language and story. There was one bit about abortion in which I think he made great arguments for pro-life but ended up on the pro-choice side. It was a bit odd. But other than that, I really enjoyed this one.