This post may include Amazon links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Hosted by Kathryn at Book Date
I was able to finish two books this week thanks in part to being sick! I missed a day and a half of work and discovered that audiobooks are wonderful when you’re not feeling up to actually reading. I’m much better now and ready for an incredibly busy, somewhat crazy week ahead.
Last Week’s Reads:
I finished listening to When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi on Tuesday. Though I’m not going to do a full review on this book, I none-the-less loved it. So many people have already written beautiful reviews of Kalanithi’s memoir that there is little I would want to add. However, this is a book well worth everyone’s time. As Kalanthi himself is slowly dying of lung cancer, he shares his decades long struggle to understand the essences of both life and death. It’s powerful, funny, and heartbreaking. It will leave you looking at your own life a little differently. I liked listening to this particular book. It felt almost as if Kalanithi was teaching me, and the narrators, Sunil Malhotra and Cassandra Campbell, were excellent.
I also finished Swimming Lessons by Claire Fuller this week. This is the second Fuller novel I read this month having finished Our Endless Numbered Days a couple of weeks ago. I’ll review both books next week. (Did I like one better than the other? Yes!)
Currently Reading:
I’m over half way through Michael Farris Smith’s new novel, Desperation Road. It’s much different than I had thought it would be. Not nearly as dark as I had expected, but instead violent and sad. I’m anxious to see how this one ends up.
Likely To Read Next:
I can hardly wait to start reading We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter. Historical fiction, especially World War II historical fiction is a genre I love. This debut about a family of Polish Jews separated during the war has already garnered a lot of attention. I’ve been itching to read this one, waiting for the right time, and that time is almost here!
Have a great week of reading!
Disclaimer: There are Amazon Affiliate links contained within this post.
Lots to say today!
1) I didn’t review When Breath Becomes Air either…for the same reason, but loved it.
2) I’m itching to find out your thoughts on Swimming Lessons…I just finished it this weekend and my thoughts changed throughout the book…and are still kind of mixed.
3) I’m about 20% through Desperation Road and trying to decide if I should continue….should I? Did you like it?
4) So glad you’re about to start We Were the Lucky Ones!
Glad you’re feeling better now! I agree When Breath Becomes Air was amazing on audio… they did a great job choosing the narrators. Look forward to your thoughts on Claire Fuller’s novels. Sounds like you’ll be able to help me decide which one to read first.
When Breath Becomes Air is on my TBR and with each glowing recommendation I read, I’m becoming more and more excited to get to it!
It really is worth the time and it’s short!
Maybe I will look for When Breath Becomes Air on audiobook. Do you think the rest of my family will notice me weeping all over the dishes?
Have a great week and I hope you enjoy We Were the Lucky Ones!
I was worried about arriving to work in tears, but ended up being home alone for the saddest part. It helps that there’s never any doubt what’s going to happen, so you’re prepared for it.
I’ll definitely be adding We Were the Lucky Ones to my TBR! This is my first time hearing of it. Can’t wait to see which Fuller you liked best!
Ive been considering When Breath Becomes Air on audio, I’m happy to hear it’s worth a listen. I struggle on print or audio on some books.
I’m so glad you’re feeling better, sadly so much flu and ick going around.
I’m looking forward to We Were the Lucky Ones too. Have a wonderful week
Thank you! Either way I’m sure you’ll enjoy When Breath Becomes Air. His writing is fantastic.
How exciting to see WE WERE THE LUCKY ONES here on your TBR list! I can’t wait to hear what you think of it. It’s become somewhat timely in a way (sadly) with the recent immigration/refugee policies set in place.
I loved WHEN BREATH BECOMES AIR, too. Talk about powerful!.
I know it’s going to be a pleasure to read. This must be such an exciting time for you!
I have seen Swimming Lessons on a few blogs….hope it is good.
We Were The Lucky Ones is something I know I would love.
ENJOY your books, and have a great rest of the week.
Elizabeth
Silver’s Reviews
My It’s Monday, What Are You Reading