Thanks to having had no real plans this break along with some really rainy weather, I was able to do lots of reading. Here are some of my highlights:
The Things a Brother Knows by Dana Reinhardt is a great book that I might consider recommending for the summer reading list. In a nutshell, Levi's older brother, Boaz, has just returned from Afghanistan. Boaz isn't the same, but no one knows how to reach him, what to say or how to act. So, when Boaz takes off on foot, supposedly to hike the Appalachian Trail, which Levi knows is a lie, Levi decides he will have to follow him, find him and figure out how to bring him home. It's good, guys. I couldn't put it down.
In the Path of Falling Objects by Andrew Smith is a THRILLER! Ok, so, never stop and catch a ride from a seeming ok but actually psychotic killer, even if there is a pretty girl in the next seat, you have $10 in your pocket and have to cross three states on foot. With their older brother off in Vietnam, their mother gone and dirt poor, two boys head out across Texas and New Mexico to do the only thing they can think to do next: meet their father who will soon get out of prison. I ignored my family until I could see how this book would end, and I think you will, too.
Amy and Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson is a great "I laughed, I cried" type of book. It's light enough to be fun reading, but it's real enough and has depth. Plus, it's romantic which is always fun. Amy is facing a major family tragedy (guilt guilt guilt). With her twin brother sent away (you'll see where), her mom has decided to start fresh out east. So, Amy's mom is sending Amy on a road trip to her new home. But, since Amy won't drive anymore (you'll see why), an old childhood friend Roger will drive her. Roger has apparently grown up nicely, if you know what I mean, so this makes things all the more complicated. The book is both about their wild journey across the country and their journey to figure things out about themselves.
