Hi readers and bloggers! I am Heather of the Madame Rubies Blog. These are the 5 books I selected:
Lolita by Vladimir Nobokov
It may scare some that this book says something about me. However, Lolita grew up with a skewed view of sexuality and how to experience it correctly. I did too. I often used my sexuality to get what I wanted, but eventually I found happiness with a man who loves me.
Everybody Wants to go to Heaven but Nobody Wants to Die by David Crwoder and Mike Hogan
This book takes you on a Bluegrass journey and that means it takes you through a piece of my childhood and also tells you a lot about my mother, who can sing like an angel with a country twang. I grew up listeing to my Mama singing with Bluegrass bands, working concession at Bill's Pickin' Parlor and singing along to Loretta Lynn tapes while dancing in front of my mirror. Heck, I am FROM The Bluegrass State - My Ol' Kentucky Home.
Seven Blessings by Ruchama King
This book involves a young girl who moves to Israel. She is actually Jewish and I am not, but I do long to experience Israel as she did. I have a crush on Judaism, and this is why I selected King's book.
Harvesting the Heart by Jodi Picoult
This isn't my favorite, by far, of Jodi's novels. However, I suffered severe postpartum depression, and the mother in this story experiences her own version of that illness. It is a pretty realistic portrayal of what PPD can do to a person and their marriage/life.
My Name is Asher Lev by Chaim Potok
Asher Lev is a Jewish artist who paints a crucifix. I can relate well to Asher. His parents want him to give up painting and drawing for a career that will actually be respected and make a living. And, when his heart moves him to paint a crucifix, it is scary. I mean, a Jewish man painting such a symbol of Christ? Sometimes, I feel like that when I am writing. What if my story doesn't live up to the expectations held for me by parents, friends, husband, children, churchmembers, etc...? How do I truly let go and let the art flow without worrying so much about other people's opinions?
So, those are my 5. I have already chosen a couple that I will read. Can't wait to see what else goes up.
Heather
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5 comments:
I just read Lolita. I thought it was a great novel. And yes, I thought Lo had a messed up view of sex.
I agree, Heather, that Harvesting the Heart is not my favorite book by Jodi Picoult. Today Nineteen Minutes, her newest book, arrived in the mail for me; so I'll probably start reading it this week. Jodi is SO on target with novels drawn from the news.
I have already read My Name is Asher Lev by Chaim Potok, too. It's a wonderful book! I often assign Potok's The Chosen to be read by the "Religions of the World" class I teach at Chattanooga State because of its depiction of two boys who lead very different lives, even though they are both members of orthodox families. All of Potok's books provide good information about Jewish culture(s) and the differences among Orthodox, Conservative, and Reformed Judaism.
*Heaver!* Thanks for the welcome :)
You know, I've always wanted to read "Asher Lev" but that's a Potok book I never picked up.
Chris... Lo had a bit more excuse for her screwed up sexuality than I did, but all the same... ;)
Bonnie, I have 19 Minutes on hold at the library. CAN'T WAIT! My faves are Plain Truth, My Sister's Keeper and Salem Falls ... or maybe Second Glance. I dunno... Hard to pick. And there are quite a few I have not gotten the chance to read. Also, I loved The Chosen. It is the first Potok books I read. I also loved Davita's Harp.
Pattie, I LOVE Asher. I need to read the second book, The Gift of Asher Lev. I gave a copy of Asher to my friend who is an art teacher. My other friend just named her baby Asher. Was it you who originally suggested Potok to me?
Yes :)
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