(Book art found at Brookline Booksmith.)
One Plus One, Jojo Moyes
Jess is nearly at the end of her rope – caring for two kids on her own and trying to make ends meet. When a road trip to a maths competition for her daughter goes disastrously wrong, she gets help from the last person she expected. Funny, sweet and un-put-down-able, like Moyes’ other novels.
The Lightning Thief, Rick Riordan
I’ve been hankering for a reread of the Percy Jackson series. This first book was just as action-packed and entertaining as I remembered – I love all the references and clever twists related to the Greek gods.
Mrs. Pollifax, Innocent Tourist, Dorothy Gilman
Mrs. Pollifax travels to Jordan with a fellow CIA agent, and quickly discovers she’s being followed. Political intrigue and a flight into the desert ensue. The penultimate book in this series, which I love.
The Teacher Wars: A History of America’s Most Embattled Profession, Dana Goldstein
Goldstein reviews the tumultuous history of American education, from “missionary” teachers on the frontier to the rise of “normal schools” to today’s various paths into education. Well-researched, highly readable and particularly interesting to me because of my day job. To review for Shelf Awareness (out Sept. 2).
Lady of Quality, Georgette Heyer
When Miss Annis Wychwood takes a runaway heiress under her wing, her very correct brother (and most of Bath society) are slightly scandalized. My first Heyer book; a fun, witty Regency romp. (Like Jane Austen, with 200% more exclamation points!) Found in Rockport (for $7!).
The Bible Tells Me So: Why Defending Scripture Has Made Us Unable to Read It, Peter Enns
The Bible is an ancient book – which means it doesn’t behave like a rulebook, an owner’s manual or a modern historical text. Enns gives a fresh perspective (with plenty of snark) and argues convincingly for accepting the Bible on its own terms. To review for Shelf Awareness (out Sept. 9).
The Sea of Monsters, Rick Riordan
When Percy Jackson returns to Camp Half-Blood, he’s shocked to find it in chaos. With two friends (one human, one Cyclops), Percy sails for the Sea of Monsters to rescue another friend and (he hopes) save the camp in the process. So much fun, like all the books in this series.
Links (not affiliate links) are to my favorite local bookstore, Brookline Booksmith.
What are you reading?
I’m so surprised Lady of Quality was your first Heyer novel–you’re such a voracious reader, I guess I just think you’ve read practically every book ever written (obviously, I’ve forgotten how many books that would be!). I’ve only read one Heyer novel too–The Grand Sophy. I liked it quite a bit.