Hey folks! DebDodd and I were just chatting here and both commented that we're always looking for good books to read. I know that's a very subjective judgement, but I was wondering if any of you have any "Must Reads" whose titles you could pass along. I'm talking both fiction and non-fiction. A title a brief description would be really helpful. Then we could check it out more thoroughly on Amazon.com if it sounds interesting.
Oh, and no criticisms of others' suggestions, okay? Book preference is a matter of personal preference, so how can you criticize that?? As the man said after being questioned about chewing on his umbrella handle, "It's just a question of taste."
I'll start it off with a couple of suggestions, just to get the ball rolling....
* Mayflower, by Nathaniel Philbrick (non-fiction. The REAL story of the Pilgrims and their first hundred years in the New World. Not deconstructionist, but it definitely gives facts that will alter the traditional image we were all taught in elementary school!)
* Harlan Coben (mystery fiction. I'm really enjoying his books at present. Very well written, believable and entertaining characters, good plot lines.)
*
Jayber Crow, by Wendell Berry (Excellently written fictitious memoir of a backwoods barber. A literary feast!)
* Frank McCourt's books --
Angela's Ashes, 'Tis, Teacher Man. All great reads. Heartbreakingly funny, as only the Irish can produce.
* Annie Dillard's work, especially
For The Time Being. Non-fiction. Very thought-provoking. Poetically written prose.
*
A Prayer for Owen Meany, John Irving. Fiction. TERRIFIC!
* Anything by Pat Conroy (fiction. Poignant. Moves me to both laugh-out-loud joy and real tears...and I'm not a cry-baby! Wonderful!)
I've got lots more recommendations. But I think that will do for now
