Each week I share books I’m reading for my Read 100 Challenge, as well as podcasts I’m listening to and links I love from around the blogosphere. I love to get recommendations, so please let me know what you are reading!
Books I’m Reading
Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell
Fangirl is my latest audiobook, and I am really loving this audio version (which is free right now if you do a trial period of Audible). Fangirl tells the stories of twins Cather and Wren as they enter their first year of college. The story is engaging and brings back all of the feelings I had completely forgotten about from my freshman year of college. Be warned, there is some language and some adult scenes in the book.
On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King
Confession time: I’ve never read a book by Stephen King. I once watched Carrie when I was in high school and had nightmares for years. With my overly sensitive imagination, I tend to avoid scary or graphic books and movies. However, this memoir came highly recommended by one of my favorite book bloggers–Anne at Modern Mrs. Darcy. And, since I do enjoy a good memoir and books about writing, I thought I would take a chance. I’m glad I did. King’s telling of his life and his writings is fascinating. If you are a King fan, or if you just like interesting books about the art of writing, I would recommend it.
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain
I picked out this book for two reasons: my brother (who has great taste in books) recommended it, and the title is just plain awesome! I have only just begun, but I am already extremely interested in Cain’s ideas. As an introvert, I have definitely experienced the pressure that our society puts on people to have a public, outgoing, forceful personality. This just isn’t me! Reading about the history of our culture’s emphasis on personality over character and idolization of the extrovert personality in the workplace is really fascinating! If you’re an introvert, put this one on your wish list!
Links I Love
Faith
Merry Christmas Raising Saints (one of my all-time favorite Orthodox blogs!) has a fantastic post on the tension that Orthodox Christians feel during this Christmas season as we try to balance fasting and waiting with our culture’s extended Christmas.
Dreams and Reality Michelle at Be As a Light has a very honest post about our imperfect lives as mothers in church.
Family
Declutter Your Digital Life As we approach the new year, I often feel the urge to declutter and simplify. This post from This Little Home of Mine will help you declutter your digital world.
DIY Play Food Bowl of Apples My kids love playing with pretend food right now, so I found Keeping It Real’s tutorial on making your own pretend food really helpful.
Frugal Living
When to Buy: A Monthly Guide Buying in season and when items go on sale can really help save money. Simply Save has a great guide to help you out.
The Best Apps to Teach Kids About Money Are you including financial lessons in your child’s education? Kids Money Lessons shares some apps that will help.
This Week on The Orthodox Mama
The Best Christmas Printables for Kids
Best Gifts for Orthodox Christians
What are you reading this week?
(This post contains affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.)
(Linked to Quick Lit.)
Thanks for sharing my post, Sarah! I LOVE “On Writing” by Stephen King. It is one of my all time favorite books… I need to read it again!
Thanks for sharing my post!! I also really enjoyed the book Quiet.
You’re very welcome! Thanks for a great post.