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For the Love of Reading: April 2022

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.

This Post Has 8 Comments

  1. I’m still (struggling) with Young Mungo. It is a tough read for me, but I will finish and I’m looking forward to discussing with everyone. As always, I enjoy your reviews Carole – thanks for sharing!

  2. A great bunch (and variety of) books here! I’m still reading Young Mungo (and taking notes this time).

  3. I’ve just started Young Mungo, and I’m really liking it so far. You’re right — Douglas Stuart does a great job balancing the “intense” so it’s never completely overwhelming. (So far.) 😉 This is the time of year my reading generally slows considerably. There’s so much to take care of in the garden that it doesn’t leave much time for reading. But . . . like I so often say . . . it’s not the number of books we read that matters. XO

  4. I am just starting Young Mungo for the second time… and I am struck by the things I missed the first time reading through! 🙂

    I am eager for our discussion!

  5. I am back to Young Mungo and taking it slowly, which I think is a speed it needs — it’s not a book to be rushed through. I read Good in Bed years ago and remember enjoying it a lot, and I’ve since read quite a few of her other books.

  6. I’m looking forward to Young Mungo – likely in June. and I was a big Jennifer Weiner fan a few years back – I have fond memories of Good in Bed.

  7. Looking for a chick lit before I start Young Mungo. I’m off to try and find it! Thanks Carole.

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