Which books hit you at just the right time, in just the right place this year?
For me, it's the illustrated edition of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. I'd been meaning to re-read the series anyhow (I haven't since their original releases!), and seeing the stunning art in the new version inspired me to read it again. Bonus: my niece is reading it for the first time, so I get to connect with her about a book that's changed countless lives.
I asked the other bloggers for the book they're most thankful for this year. Here's what they said:
Deimosa: I am thankful for The Case for Loving: The Fight for Interracial Marriage because this nonfiction picture book illustrates a moment in history that reflects my own family’s heritage. My mom’s parents were in an interracial marriage in America through the 1940s, 50s, 60s, and 70s (until my grandfather passed); and as we grandkids grow older we continue to learn more details of what they and our parents/aunts/uncles experienced, and people were not always kind – to put it mildly! We read this book for Scholastic’s Employee Reading Club in February, and the discussion involved a lot of personal sharing and reflection. Thank you Selina and Sean.
Megan: I read I Feel Bad About My Neck by Nora Ephron — the short stories are so self-deprecating and hilarious. It made me remember why I love Nora Ephron.
Brittany: The book I am most thankful for from this past year is Switching Lanes and Other Stories by Paul Uche. The author, Paul, was a talented writer and close friend of mine who lost his battle with leukemia in 2014 at the age of 23. Switching Lanes is a beautiful collection of his short stories and blog posts capturing the human spirit in extraordinary tales of what would otherwise be ordinary life experiences. Proceeds go to the Paul Uche Memorial Foundation.
Alex: This year I am thankful for board books, especially the Little Scholastic Petting Farm book. It’s been incredible to watch my 1-year-old nephew get so excited when it's story time. It’s an amazing moment to watch him turn the pages and discover new illustrations that he can interact with.
Mike: Openly Straight by Bill Konigsberg – I am thankful as it reminded me of how far I have come in being true to myself since my adolescent years. It inspired me to celebrate the ups-and-downs of “growing up,” which continues throughout your whole life. Also, The Genius of Dogs: How Dogs are Smarter Than You Think! I am thankful as it helped me understand my two pups – and myself – a little better, as well being a better “dog parent.” It’s a great read about man/woman’s best friend and – most importantly – empowered me dig into nonfiction reads again.
Which books are you thankful for this year?
