Last week I set up my Summer Book Bingo journal pages. It’s a little different from last year but I’m happy with it. Truthfully, I really enjoy tracking my reading this way and I love the satisfaction of coloring in a square when I finish a book! I’ve actually colored in 2 more squares since I took this photo, bringing me to 6 finished books.
Now, here’s where this post gets a little wonky. Not every book I’ve finished since my last reading update is part of Summer Book Bingo. So, in the interest of catching you up on my reading, just know that the first book I’m listing was finished prior to Memorial Day weekend. I realize this is probably only an issue for me and my need to keep things . . . organized and orderly . . . but I can’t help myself.
The House on Tradd Street by Karen White
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Much more a romance than a mystery, I enjoyed this mainly for the Charleston setting. Recommended for fans of the genre.
Imagine Me Gone by Adam Haslett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A well written and honest tale of a family and the struggles they face: mental illness, depression, multiple moves, job loss, stilted conversations and more. I felt it dragged at times but in the end it was quite moving and insightful. Bingo Square: Prize Winner
Public Library and Other Stories by Ali Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A mingling of short stories and library love – it’s perfect for anyone who values the public library. Bingo Square: A collection of essays.
The Girl On Legare Street by Karen White
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
A fast, entertaining and light read, I’m looking forward to reading the next one in this series. Bingo Square: Part of a series.
You Are Here: Discovering the Magic of the Present Moment by Thich Nhat Hanh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Excellent advice for both those new to mindfulness and those who have practiced for a long time. I highlighted a lot of passages and think this is a book I will return to over and over. Bingo Square: about religion.
Ghosted by Rosie Walsh
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I enjoyed this story about a couple who meet and instantly fall in love, spend 7 days together, and then the man disappears, i.e., he ghosts the woman. I was compelled to read it quickly to find out the reason why this happened but I’ll admit there are some flaws in the story, including the fact that after the big reveal there are a few more contrived twists that just felt unnecessary. Overall I enjoyed the light, easy romance but did feel it was tedious at times. Bingo Square: That you want to read because of the cover.
All the Ever Afters: The Untold Story of Cinderella’s Stepmother by Danielle Teller
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
An excellent retelling of the Cinderalla fairy tale from the point of view of her stepmother. The writing is quite good, the story is fascinating, and it will change the way you think of those ugly stepsisters forever! Bingo Square: Retelling.
I’d say my summer reading is off to a terrific start!
Such a cute journal layout for your Summer Book Bingo! 🙂 I’m not playing Bingo this summer myself, but I’ll enjoy cheering you on from the sidelines. I picked up All the Ever Afters just before my sister arrived last week, but I haven’t cracked the cover yet. (I will, though.) XO
You are off to a very good start! I am on the short waitlist for Ali Smith’s Library. I am very much looking forward to it!
Always fun to read these posts from you. Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with us.
You are off to a wonderful start with Book Bingo! Like Kym, I’m not playing this year but I’m very interested in what people are reading. I can’t wait to see what you read for your fantasy, 19th century, and about food squares.
You are cooking with gas Carole!
I like how you decorated your journal pages, my summer bingo card looks kinda sad in comparison, but I am reading some good books! I’ll put my progress on Instagram soon.
All those books sound very interesting! I’m going to see if I can get hold of some of them. Thanks for the recommendations!
I wish I’d thought to put my bingo card in a journal — that’s a great way to keep track of things over the summer and from year to year! Perhaps I’ll do it next year, if Mary is still willing to host.
Thanks for the reviews and recommendations!
OMG—another batch of “must read”. Right nowI an reading A Gentleman in Moscow. Didn’t like it at first but now I can’t put it down.
I wish I’d have accomplished as much reading as you have, so far. By the time I have time to read I’m too tired. Am glad you’ve posted so if I need some suggestions I know where to go.
Your book bingo tracker is so cheerful, as always. You are off to a fabulous start, and you know I will be watching those reviews closely. Thanks for them, as always, Carole!
I’m so happy you’re playing Bingo this year! and whoa, your card (and your Summer reading) is off to a great start!! Thanks to a few blogger recommendations – yours included – I started All the Ever Afters yesterday. Love the narrator. and the story! (also – Bingo square Fantasy!)
Great journaling job! And I love the categories you picked. That was the hardest part for me 🙂
Your Summer Bingo pages are so attractive. I have a piece of paper on my dining room table (now my desk) and I mark off each square as I finish an appropriate book. I have a Bingo without even trying! I’m just reading, but as with last year. It’s been fairly easy to find a place for each book. I think it will change as the squares become less desirable. Anyway, nice work!!