Since my last update, I participated in a weeklong readathon through one of my Goodreads groups, Unexpected Readathon Time. I have to say, even though I felt like I didn’t get a lot of reading time in, my totals surprised me. I wrapped up four books, and over the course of seven days logged 1,185 pages! I guess the excessive heat we had that week made my brain believe I was reading slower than I was. 😀
The Week in Books
Creatures of Passage by Morowa Yejide — 4.5/5 out of 5 stars
I was mesmerized by this story, yet find myself unable to succinctly describe it. Morowa Yejide has created a haunting tale that combines elements of paranormal fantasy, Egyptian mythology, horror, and magical realism, set in the Anacostia neighborhood of Washington D.C., 1977. With topics like alcoholism, racism, and horrific child abuse, it is not an easy read, nor should it be. But even with such heaviness, the writing is beautiful and the story unique. One of my top five favorites for 2022. Highly recommend.
Ouch by Pug Grumble — 4 out of 5 stars
“A comical and quirky tale about a masochist, a sadist, and a klutz” is the byline for this tale, and sums up the story perfectly. Masochist Sylvester is in a relationship with sadist Felicia, but when klutzy Natalie enters Sylvester’s life, he finds himself yearning for more than his next encounter with pain. I found myself chuckling quite a bit throughout this funny yet somewhat dark love story. Fair warning, there are some uncomfortable and icky scenes, but if you’re looking for a funny, fast read with just enough weird, you may want to check this one out.
Crow Lake by Mary Lawson — 3.5 out of 5 stars
An invitation to a teenager’s birthday triggers reflection on the past in this 2002 novel. Told through the eyes of Kate, whose adoration for her older brother Matt changes through the years and after a multitude of various tragedies. This is also the story of the neighboring Pye family, whose paths will intersect with Kate and her family in various ways. The story is beautifully written, but by the end I guess I was just thinking that Kate would have gained more insight…or something! A good choice for book club discussions.
Stay safe, and Happy Reading!