March Wrap-Up

It's been a weird month, to say the least. At first, I was so flummoxed that I barely read anything besides my Twitter feed. More recently, I've been on a streak of reading a book a day, even spending 6-9 hours a day working and at least 8 hours sleeping, so that's felt pretty good. Even though I'm less inclined to reach for a book than Netflix after a long day of work, I always feel much better after reading than binge-watching. It's a better palate-cleanser after working on the computer all day.

Books Read This Month

1. The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay
2. Pretty in Plaid by Jen Lancaster
3. Deenie by Judy Blume
4. Kitchen Privileges by Mary Higgins Clark
5. Where Are the Children? by Mary Higgins Clark
6. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows

Favorite Book This Month

I never would have read The Power of One if it hadn't been for one of my book clubs. It's about a boy growing up in South Africa in the 1940s, somewhat based on the life of the author. The book was published 30 years ago, and it has a problematic white savior trope, but it's still an interesting read. Peekay, the main character, has a rich psychological profile rooted in profound childhood experiences, and he is assisted in his dreams by a variety of friends who impact his life. It's interesting from a character and a historical perspective, and if you're interested in South Africa, it could be a good gateway read. I learned a lot about the South African prison system, at least at that time, boarding schools, and English/Afrikaaner relations (not good).