Westport Public Library BOOK blog

Several weeks ago I was able to get away for a few days to sunny Florida for a little rest and relaxation. I love vacations like this every once in a while – no sightseeing, no structured activities, no time clock… For five days I was able to relax, rejuvenate and READ!! At home, a typical week’s reading consists of several newspapers, lots of book reviews, a few weekly magazines and a chapter or two from whichever book that I’m rushing through because I know it has a long wait list. So for a few days last month I was able to catch up on my pleasure reading, books that I wanted to read and had the time to enjoy. These are the books I chose.

The Wife by Meg Wolitzer was my first choice. After 40 years of marriage, Joan Castleman has decided to leave her award winning writer-husband. In a series of flashbacks we come to understand what her marriage has been like, and what led her to this decision. This book is well written and witty, but sad. Book groups will have much to say about Wolitzer’s characters. The Ten Year Nap, her latest novel about marriage, motherhood and female ambition already is in great demand. I definitely want to read it, but I may wait for my next vacation so I don’t have to rush it.

Tom Perotta’s The Abstinence Teacher was my second vacation read. I loved Little Children and his latest book did not disappoint. Perotta captures the suburban lifestyle in this story about a health education teacher and her daughter’s born-again Christian soccer coach which deals with some timely issues. It is humorous, but thought provoking. Perfect material to generate a lively discussion at any book club.

How to be Lost by Amanda Eyre Ward was the last book I packed for my trip. It is the story of the Winters family, who seem to have it all until their five year old daughter disappears. Fifteen years later a photograph in a magazine inspires Caroline, the oldest sibling to begin a search for her lost sister. Caroline’s journey is as much about finding herself as it is a search for her little sister. Ward’s characters are both compelling and identifiable. This is a beautifully written and touching story. I really enjoyed it.

So that’s what I read on my vacation this time. Do you have any reading suggestions for my next trip?