Open Book ~ May'20

The Jane Austen Society by Natalie Jenner which will be released later this month is a lovely story about a village in England where the author Jane Austen lived for a while, and what a small group of townspeople did to preserve her legacy.  I found this book slow to get going but ultimately wonderful with developed characters and amusing dialogue.  The book also speaks to Austen's appeal across the generations.

Across Five Aprils by Irene Hunt tells the story of the Civil War from the perspective of a 10 year old; youngest son in a family living in Southern Illinois.  A quietly moving YA story (based on the experience of the author's grandfather) where a young boy comes of age practically because his older brothers leave and the work of the farm remains and emotionally as the stresses and worries of war continue over the years.

Loving My Actual Life by Alexandra Kuykendall, is a practical, funny look at the little changes that can make a big difference.  Based on a 9 month experiment where the author seeking to enjoy more of her everyday life rather than racing through, changed a few things each month to sort-out in her world what made a difference.  I enjoyed the journal format and emphasis on trial and error, as well as the author's approach being that of offering suggestions what worked in her married, four kids life. I also appreciated how Kuykendall shared how her faith effected her decisions but don't feel that this would be offensive or off-putting to non-Christians.


Please head over to Carolyn's for more Open Book