Little Women

Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott

25/25 | Started 07.16.21 • Finished 09.03.21

After listening to a podcast episode about a Pakistani girl who only had this book to (secretly) read while growing up, I decided to read it. Couldn't believe I never had!

"If I don’t seem to need help, it is because I have a better friend, even than Father, to comfort and sustain me. My child, the troubles and temptations of your life are beginning and may be many, but you can overcome and outlive them all if you learn to feel the strength and tenderness of your Heavenly Father as you do that of your earthly one. The more you love and trust Him, the nearer you will feel to Him, and the less you will depend on human power and wisdom. His love and care never tire or change, can never be taken from you, but may become the source of lifelong peace, happiness, and strength. Believe this heartily, and go to God with all your little cares, and hopes, and sins, and sorrows, as freely and confidingly as you come to your mother."

I think we all know the story by now as it has been adapted for the screen numerous times but I think the book is worth reading for the prose that never comes out in a movie. Also, my understanding is that the movies often stop after the first half of the book and leave the second half out completely.

As she lifted the curtain to look out into the dreary night, the moon broke suddenly from behind the clouds and shone upon her like a bright, benignant face, which seemed to whisper in the silence, “Be comforted, dear soul! There is always light behind the clouds.”

It's a classic that's definitely worth getting off your TBR list.

Number the Stars

Number the Stars, by Lois Lowry

Started 07.22.21 • Finished 07.28.21

"It is during World War II in Denmark. Annemarie, a girl in the story, is friends with a Jew named Ellen. Annemarie finds out the Germans are closing Jewish stores. Her family thinks they should help the Jews. It got harder to get new things and the Germans stole a list of the Jews in the area. Ellen roomed with Annemarie. Annemarie's house was searched and Germans didn't find anything. The family then goes to their uncle. Annmarie's sister accidentally gave Ellen away. The Germans don't search them. Ellen's family with Uncle Henrik is boating to Sweden. Annemarie had to bring a pack they forgot. Annemarie made it and saved the Rosens because of a special handkerchief."

Timothy, age 12

Peace Like A River

Peace Like A River, by Leif Enger

Started 12.10.20 • Finished 12.27.20

I read this a while back, but I'm adding it in here because book club meets for it this month.

I remember it as October days are always remembered, cloudless, maple-flavored, the air gold and so clean it quivers.

This is one of my favorite books of all time and probably my most recommended book. I just love the characters and the story of redemption. This is my second time through and I'm sure it won't be the last. It was just as good this time around, if not better.

Good advice is a wise man’s friend, of course; but sometimes it just flies on past, and all you can do is wave.

The story follows a close-knit family of four (Reuben, Swede, Davy, and Jeremiah) through a tragedy and the ensuing cross-Dakota RV trip that follows. There's everything from minor miracles to an FBI agent, from a love story to a mysterious man in the woods, from a western-loving girl to an asthmatic boy. And the writing is just sublime. I've heard it's great read aloud. I honestly don't want to say too much about it. I'd rather you get to experience the joy it is to read the story as it unfolds.

You can embark on new and steeper versions of your old sins, you know, and cry tears while doing it that are genuine as any.

Don't walk, RUN to the nearest library or bookstore or amazon link and get your copy today!

Fair is whatever God wants to do.