Six months into 2021 and I have read 6 VERY different books! With a variety of genres and styles, these books have been enlightening, entertaining and have re-kindled my love for reading.
One of my goals for 2021 was to read one book a month and so far I am doing it. Hooray!! Before having children, I was an avid reader and made well-use out of my library card. I enjoyed reading in the bathtub, before bed, and if I was alone, would read while I ate. But life as a new mom was busy and any time or energy I had reserved for reading was focused on other things. I wanted to change that and started off 2021 by reading the timeless classic To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee. For some reason, I had never read this literary great before. As soon as I started reading, I was hooked. It is such a great book and got me excited to read more. Today, I’m sharing all the books I’ve read this year PLUS what I’m reading next!
The Books I’ve Read
January- To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Even though this book was published in 1961, there were still so many lessons learned that I applied to our current day. It took me awhile to get into this book because of the older writing style. But once I was accustomed to it I could not put it down. This is a story that transcends time and one I will give to my children to read when they are a bit older as well.
February – Untamed by Glennon Doyle
I was expecting a storyline, similar to her book Love Warrior, but Untamed was a series of non-chronological memoirs, self-help, inspiration, and thought-provoking ideas broken into individual chapters. Just like life, some chapters I adored and others were completely unrelatable. But I did love her point of view, message, and encouragement on how to live a life “untamed.”
March – The Sanotorium by Sarah Pearse
This book had me on the edge of my seat. A torrential blizzard, mysterious murders, a woman missing, and SO MUCH family drama. This story was full of plot twists, turns, and the ending left me spooked! I definitely recommend this book if you like thrillers!
April – The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah
This book was captivating and reminded me how resilient the human spirit can be. The story takes place during the Dust Bowl and follows one mother’s struggle to provide, protect, and survive for her family. The author’s vivid descriptions and awesome story telling made me feel like I was right there with the characters. This book is a wonderful (and heart wrenching) book to read.
May – In Five Years by Rebecca Serle
As an avid list maker and over-planner, I related extremely well to Dannie, the main character in this book. But her life plans get a major shock when she spends one hour five years in her future. I think we all would be a bit shocked to get a glimpse five years into our future. This tale of love, friendship, and learning to let go of plans and expectations was a great read.
June – Sex and Vanity by Kevin Kwan
This book is the PERFECT summer read. Opulence, luxury, drama, gossip, food, and a love story all set on the beautiful island of Capri. The characters in this book are hysterical; some I loved, some I loathed. This book was fun, entertaining, and made me want to book a flight to Italy immediately.
What I’m Reading Next
Today starts a new month so that also means a new book. For July, I am reading The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave. This is supposed to be another mystery thriller and I can’t wait to dive in.
For August, I want to read Midnight In the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt. My husband and I are planning a trip to Savannah in September so I thought it would be fun to get a sneak peek of the place through this popular book.
My list of books to read is continually growing and I will be sure to share more of my favorites with you soon. I’m a sucker for a good mystery or thriller so if you have any recommendations, be sure to tell me in the comments below.
