theinbetweenismine

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9: What I read in October

November 9, 2020 filed under: books, NaBloPoMo

I am doing NaBloPoMo this month. 30 blog posts in 30 days. Come join me. #nablopomo2020

I finished two books in October and I enjoyed both of them. 

Here for it; Or, how to save your soul in America by R. Eric Thomas (★★★★☆)

I hadn’t heard about R. Eric Thomas before picking up this book, but I am so glad I came across it. Thomas openly and humorously talks about the trials and tribulations of his life in the United States as a black, gay, Christian man. He’s funny, witty, and self-deprecating at times, but also doesn’t shy away from sharing some difficult times and experiences.

His essays also offer a look at life in general – the disappointments, the confusion, the joys, and the unexpected paths and opportunities life often presents to us – that everyone can relate to. Add it to a list of important black memoirs anyone should read.

Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout (★★★★☆)

This was the first fictional book I’ve read in a while and it was a nice change of pace.

The setup of this book was interesting and intriguing. We learn about the small coastal town of Crosby, Maine through the eyes of ordinary people leading ordinary lives, and one connecting character, Olive Kitteridge, who shows up in every chapter either as the main character or who pops in on the sidelines or in a  comment someone makes about her.

I loved the way the chapters were woven together into one story that made us feel like we were part of this close-knit community, where everybody knows each others’ business. The chapters often feel sad and depressing, shining a light on the fact that most people struggle in life: with love, with loss, self-doubt, aging, loneliness, and regret. But it’s not all sadness and tragedy, there is plenty of wit and humor between the lines, too. Just like in real life.

What did you read in October? Anything you’d like to recommend? Leave a comment, and then add me on Goodreads to keep in touch.

10

Comments

  1. sara says

    November 9, 2020 at 6:52 am

    Oooh, I’ll have to check these out. I’m trying to be more deliberate about reading things that have nothing to do with work. Last month I read Another Woman’s Husband – historical fiction that bounces between present day and Wallis Simpson’s time period. I had read another similar book by the same author – The Secret Wife – which I found absolutely riveting. This one wasn’t quite as good, but it was still a compelling read.

    Reply
    • San says

      November 11, 2020 at 12:55 pm

      It’s really good to dive into another world when reading fiction. It’s a nice escape!

      Reply
  2. Lisa of Lisa's Yarns says

    November 9, 2020 at 8:19 am

    I’ve heard so many good things about “Here For It.” I need to request it from the library. I read “Olive Kitteridge” years ago for book club and really loved it. I remember tagging so many sections of the book. I want to read “Olive Again” so need to add that to my request list as well.

    I read a lot of good books in October but the standout was “The Vanishing Half.” I just love Brit Bennett. She is such a talented author!

    Reply
    • San says

      November 11, 2020 at 12:55 pm

      I don’t think I’ve read anything by Brit Bennett. Will look into her… thanks for the recommendation!

      Reply
  3. Beckett @ Birchwood Pie says

    November 9, 2020 at 4:48 pm

    I’ve heard lots of good things about Olive Kitteridge. ^^What Lisa said about The Vanishing Half. My two best reads of October were The Janes by Louisa Luna and The Girl from Widow Hills by Megan Miranda.

    Reply
    • San says

      November 11, 2020 at 12:55 pm

      Definitely check out Olive Kitteridge, I was pleasantly surprised!

      Reply
  4. Kisma says

    November 10, 2020 at 5:44 am

    I am always looking for new books to read! COVID has given me lots of time to read more :-)

    Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
    • San says

      November 11, 2020 at 12:56 pm

      You’re welcome. I always love to hear what other people read and enjoyed!

      Reply
  5. Tobia | craftaliciousme says

    November 11, 2020 at 10:23 am

    Those two books sound really fun and interesting and I am glad you liked them both. Specially the second one I will look into more closely. Thank you

    Reply
    • San says

      November 11, 2020 at 12:56 pm

      Yes, I am sure you’d enjoy Olive Kitteridge!

      Reply

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Hi, I am San – German native, dual-citizen living in beautiful Northern California. Runner. Knitter. Crafter. Reader. Writer. Proud aunt, sister, and friend.

I’ve been blogging since 2004 and don’t intend to stop any time soon. If you are looking for personal content and making a  genuine connection, you’ve come to the right place.

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