I’m always interested in what other people are reading, as I’m always on the hunt for more TBR fodder. So I thought I’d start sharing what I’ve been reading each month in case you’re looking for something to occupy your leisure, too (especially right now)!

 

What I Read in April 2020

 

Some of these books I began back in March and completed this month. At the end of this post, I’ll always share some continuous reads and how they fit into my life.

 

Teaching from Rest by Sarah MacKenzie

 

Several homeschooling friends have long-recommended this book. It’s been sitting on my shelf for years, and I finally picked it up this month.

I can see why this is a yearly re-read for so many homeschooling moms. It was just what my heart needed at the end of what has been a long and…unpredictable year.

I love Sarah MacKenzie and the Read Aloud Revival podcast helped shape my vision for our family and school life when I was pushing my first baby around in his stroller. Her wisdom comes from her intentional reflection, deep prayer, and on-the-ground experience.

Would totally recommend.

 

Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys

 

The YA genre is not typically my cup of tea, so I was suspicious about this book that’s been lauded by both young people and older adults. But at the recommendation of a friend, and seeing that it’s World War II historical fiction (which I love), I decided to give it a read.

I really enjoyed it.

As a lover of WWII historical fiction, it was interesting to assume the vantage points of younger people during the war. It discusses a tragedy I was completely clueless about until this novel, written through a multiple narrator approach.

There were parts that were tough to read, especially since I’m still postpartum and have all those emotions. So if you’re a highly sensitive person, it might be a little much. But I found it overall to be an engrossing and enlightening read. It’s beautiful and heartbreaking and provides peak groundwork for excellent rabbit holes.

 

No Greater Love by Edward Sri

 

My book club read this book during Lent. I’ve really liked Dr. Sri’s other books, so I was excited about this one.

It was a lovely read during Lent. I learned a lot about the Scriptural significance of Christ’s Passion. There are no insignificant details in Sacred Scripture, and it was wonderful to look at the depth behind seemingly one-off sentences.

I especially liked the first part of the book. I’d recommend this as a Lenten read; but truly, the topic is worthy during any time of the year.

 

Winter Solstice by Elin Hildebrand

 

Guys, I’m a little embarrassed to talk to you about this.

This book is not well-written. The plot is like Swiss cheese. So many holes. If you’re looking for fine literature and beautiful stories, this is not the book.

But! But. If you’re in need of a Hallmark Christmas movie in book form, get after it.

Winter Solstice is actually the fourth and final book in a winter series by prolific (I can’t even) author Elin Hildebrand (she’s most known for her summer breach reads which, in all honesty, I’ll probably experiment with this summer).

I started this series back in January when I needed a massive distraction from reality. My brain was too shot to read the classics. My heart couldn’t handle heavy plot lines or any stories of tragedy. That eliminated a lot of my options. So on a snowy day, I picked up the first book in the series. It was just what I needed. It’s clean and fairly trigger-free. The characters are interesting enough to hold attention.

 

The Double Clue by Agatha Christie

 

I listened to this short story from Agatha Christie on my library’s app and it was delightful! I hadn’t read any Agatha Christie before, but she’s been on my list. This was a great introduction.

If you have 20 minutes, give it a read or listen.

Have you read Agatha Christie before? Where would you suggest starting?

 

Continual Reads

 

There are a few books that I’m reading over a long period of time. These are books that I’m reading with my book club, or that I read during my morning time, or that I read excerpts of before bed. these aren’t page-turners; they read best as a slow burn.

• Divine Mercy in My Soul – Our current book club read. I can’t wait to write in length about this one.
• The Complete Collection of Poems from Emily Dickinson – This book was a birthday gift from my best friend. I read one poem each night before going to sleep, ending my day with beauty instead of worry (which I’m prone to do).
• Walking with God – Another book I can’t wait to write about at length. I read this a few times a week during my morning time.
• In Sinu Jesu – If you watch Teachable Tuesday, you know this book well! I read this in my weekly Holy Hour and have been working through it for months.

 

What did you read in April? What would recommend?

 

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