Before we get any further into the month, let’s take a look back at what I read in April.

Young Mungo by Douglas Stuart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Reading this book is like reading about Shuggie Bain’s next door neighbors. And, while Shuggie still remains my favorite of Stuart’s two novels, Mungo is also a brilliant work. It’s heart wrenching to read about the things that happen to Mungo but Stuart is able to ease us along with his exquisite writing and a back-and-forth timeline that helps when things feel overwhelming. Highly recommended for the story, the characters, the setting, and the writing, this book is another triumph.

The Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together by Heather McGhee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The zero sum premise is one that I was not familiar with before reading this book. McGhee applies it to systemic racism in an incredibly accessible and revealing way, shining light on the real problems (hint: it’s white people) with our healthcare, economy, upward mobility and more. Highly recommended for those seeking a deeper understanding of the legacy of slavery.

Written in the Stars by Aisha Saeed
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
The story is extremely compelling and as a result I read this book very quickly. However, I think it would have made for a much better book if there had been more character development (many feel very stereotypical) and more attention to the setting, expanding on the descriptions of food and clothing in particular. I enjoyed the book, but I wish the author had taken a deeper dive into arranged marriage culture and I found the ending rather abrupt and not nearly as satisfying as it could have been.

The Love of My Life by Rosie Walsh
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
A quick and entertaining read, this novel is both a mystery and a love story. Short chapters and alternating viewpoints along with journal entries, will keep you turning the pages until all is revealed. I figured out most of the plot twists easily enough but there were some I didn’t see coming. Recommended for those looking for a story full of secrets, heartbreak, love, and ultimately, forgiveness.

Good in Bed by Jennifer Weiner
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I recently started following Jennifer Weiner on TikTok and that made me remember that I had never read this book. I truly enjoyed it, the characters are real and flawed and Cannie Shapiro is a great role model for body positivity and acceptance. Is it chick lit? Sure. But sometimes chick lit is just what I need. And, since reading it, I have though of Cannie often when I’ve looked at myself in the mirror; she has helped me focus on the good instead of the flaws. Definitely recommended.

It was a slower month for me in terms of the number of books, mainly because Young Mungo was long as was the book I started after I finished Good In Bed, but it was a great month in terms of the quality of the books I read and the enjoyment I received because of that.

I hope you’re reading something enjoyable right now.