October Books

The Homecoming Party by Carmine Abate (October 2, 2010) 
I read this book for my book club (September's selection).  I love Europa Editions, and I loved this book.  It was a short book, but it wasn't short on content and quality.  It was a story of family and what happens when circumstances force them to be apart.  The effect that Marco's dad's absence had on their family was huge and it was interesting to see a family who was forced apart instead of a family who was broken.  I really related to Elisa at some moments during this book and I was definitely intrigued by this man she was dating and the effect it had on their family.  Great book!


Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins (October 4, 2010)
I know there are mixed reviews on this book, but I liked it.  The story was fast paced, life in District 13 was kind of neat, and Peeta was crazy.  The war was intense, and I couldn't get enough of it.  Also, being firmly on Team Peeta, I enjoyed the ending.


I Feel Bad About My Neck by Nora Ephron (October 4, 2010)
I enjoyed this series of essays about growing older.  They were funny and at time poignant.  Also, how awesome is Nora Ephron?


If I Stay by Gayle Forman (October 8, 2010)
Well, I cried during the first few pages of this one.  The car accident that took Mia's family's life was horrific, as was the description.  Then when she was in the hospital, my heart was breaking for her.  Her whole family was gone, how could she survive that?  It was beautifully written, and I devoured it in one sitting.  Great book for all ages.


How Did You Get This Number by Sloane Crosley (October 10, 2010)
I love Sloane Crosley.  She is hilarious and her essays never disappoint.  She's funny and likable.  There isn't much more I could ask for.


The Art of Losing by Rebecca Connell (October 17, 2010)
What a gorgeous book!  It was intense and romantic (if that makes sense).  There was a thriller vibe and I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would be revealed, and luckily I was shocked at the little twist (also grossed out).  After I read the book, I felt like I should have seen the twist coming from a mile away...but I didn't.  I liked how the chapters jumped between Lydia in 2007 and Nicholas in the 80s and current.  Another good choice by Europa.  


Single in Suburbia by Wendy Wax (October 24, 2010)
Perfect, light read for a lazy Sunday afternoon.  It was a funny and enjoyable book.  I have another Wendy Wax book sitting nearby that I'm eager to pick up now!  


The Husband by Dean Koontz (October 30, 2010) -- Thriller and Suspense Challenge
I like to read a good mystery on Halloween, so I settled down Saturday night and started reading this.  Eek, did I have a dramatic night.  It all started at 10:00 pm when a crazy person ran up my porch and started pounding on my door and demanding that I open up.  Oh my gosh, I freaked out!  I'm pretty sure it was my neighbor, but it still freaked me out.  She was pounding and yelling for about 5 minutes (I was hiding haha).  Anyways, reading this book probably is part of the reason I was scared.  FYI - my mom came over and spent the night with me.  I'm quite spoiled!  Anyways, this was a good book with a good mystery and a little bit of a shocking twist in the middle.  Poor Mitch!