Quick Lit {July 2016}

I've always thought that summers are made for reading.  I've been trying to finish up a class I've been taking, and instead of climbing into my reading chair after the kids are in bed to read a good book, I've had to sit at a desk trying desperately to stay awake enough to finish assignments.  I did, however, manage to sneak in a few:  

And Then There Were None

Written by Agatha Christie

Ten individuals are invited to a mansion on a secluded island only to discover that their host is nowhere to be found.  A recorded message is played accusing each guest of having killed someone in their past.  There is no way to escape from the island, and one by one, the guests are killed.  Interesting mystery that had me guessing throughout the book, but one that I wasn't able to solve.  I had hoped that it would be a bit more of a thriller, but still enjoyed it.
My Rating: 4/5

Salt to the Sea

Written by Ruta Sepetys

A young adult historical fiction narrative following a group of refugees trying to escape East Prussia and the Soviets invasion.  Heartbreaking experiences and secrets haunt them as they do everything within their power to fight their way to freedom and safety.  Beautifully written story of the power of the human spirit.  I have read a lot of World War II historical fiction, but had never heard any stories about the Wilhelm Gustloff or any of the other ships carrying refugees.  Definitely a page turner, and one of the most interesting ones I have read this year.  Highly recommend.

My Rating: 4.5/5

This book is written for young adults, but I would hesitate recommending it to young teenagers due to references to rape and other war atrocities.

The Child Whisperer

Written by Carol Tuttle

Carol Tuttle has spent a lot of time researching in the field of energy profiling, and applies her knowledge of different personalities and temperaments to specific childhood situations in The Child Whisperer.  During the description of each of the personalities and how they relate to the world (socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually), I was able to relate her descriptions to each of my children, and it really helped me be able to see them in a different light.  She really helps the reader understand the gifts that each personality has to offer, and how to let them live true to themselves.  I am normally not a fan of parenting books, but found this one to be helpful.  I didn't agree with everything, but was able to gain some great insights about how to help all of the different personalities in my family.  My sister-in-law has also been reading it, and we've had a great time discussing it.  Perfect for a book club setting.  

My Rating: 4/5

Consider the Blessings

Written by Thomas S. Monson

This was a great collection of stories told by Thomas S. Monson from over the pulpit throughout his many years serving in church leadership for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  Each of the stories was an example of God's love for his children and the blessings He sends.  I have always loved his stories, and come away uplifted after hearing them.  This book is one I would like to read as a family.

My Rating: 5.0/5

The Maze Runner

Written by James Dashner

I've been meaning to read The Maze Runner for years, and after a recent glowing recommendation from my teenage nephews, decided to finally read it.  Thomas enters the glade with no memory except for his name.  The new community of teenage boys that he has entered into makes no sense to him, and no one around him is much help in figuring it out.  All he knows is that he wants to be a maze runner, and is determined to find a way out.  Definitely a lot different than I was expecting.  Slow pace at first, but picks up at the end.  It isn't my favorite book, but the ending has left me wanting to continue reading the rest of the series.
My Rating: 3.5/5

What did you read this month?  Be sure to leave a comment with any books that you've been enjoying lately!  

Happy Reading!

Emily