Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Dear Readers,
Some how I managed to not read this book until now. I must admit I have watched the movie about a million times and know just about every line. But yet I had not the read the book. After reading Sense and Sensibility I wanted more Jane Austen romance. Going out and buying this book was one of my best decisions. Sure the book is just about a silly romance but that is exactly what it is suppose to be.
To paraphrase on of my other favorite movies, I was constantly in agony if Elizabeth would actually end up with Mr. Darcy. Of course I knew that ending. I knew who would marry who, but that did not stop my stomach from fluttering every time Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth exchanged their witty words.
Over all I loved this book. Sure I think the need for these sisters to marry gentleman before their lives mean anything is ridiculous. If you don't want to be a burden on your parents go get a job. I know that is not the times, but it still bothers me. Surely they can make somewhere besides marriage. They pay their servants and the people who run the shops. Go be a servant or run a shop. It seems simpler than marrying a man like Mr. Collins.
My dislike for the characters need for marriage will not prevent me from reading this book over and over again. It is a wonderful book and if you haven't read it yet do, dear friend, because I know you will love it.
Lindsey

"Let's Explore Diabetes With Owls" and "When You Are Engulfed in Flames" by David Sedaris

Dear Readers,
A curious thing happens when people find out that you love reading. They start giving you their favorite books and forcing you to read them. Truth be told I was not forced to read these books as I have never been forced to read anything in my life. I was however give them by a co-worker to read.
Both of the books were written by the interesting and strangely funny David Sedaris. He has taken strange stories from his own life and told them in a manner that makes them comical. Normally there is nothing funny about a worm living in someones leg, buying a human skeleton, or living in a boarding home with a few crazy people but his voice makes them laughable.
It is nice to dive into someone else's life realize that you and your family are not the only crazy people on the planet. His stories actually make me feel a little more normal. That is probably the result of his numerous and different experiences.
I like to think that I have done a lot in my short life, but reading stories like David Sedaris's makes me realize I have done nothing yet. Through his scattered accounts you can piece together his interesting life. He has lived almost everywhere and done almost everything.
In one of his stories he actually talks about how he likes diving into other peoples lives. He received a call from a phone company trying to sell him their newest model, and after saying he was uninterested he began a conversation with the operator. It reminded him of the time he had a pen pal. That is what these stories remind me of. Having a pen pal who tells you numerous interesting stories. The best part is you don't have to think up interesting stories to send back.
They are both wonderful books I would recommend to anyone. Especially those who have tired of monogamous fiction books. These stories are short and refreshing. They jump from country to country and decade to decade. They will surely keep anyone's interest and leave you wanting more.
Lindsey

Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquirel

Dear Readers,
Food and reading make up my existence. If I am not cooking or eating then I am surely reading. When I find books that both embody my passion for cooking and reading I get very excited. Like Water for Chocolate is the story of Tita, a women who lives to cook.
From the day of her birth Tita was in the kitchen. She was comforted by the smells of a cooking soup and the warmth of the oven. Her Aunt taught her the magic of cooking and from then on Tita was responsible for most of the cooking in the house.
Each chapter of the book and of Tita's life starts out with a new recipe. These recipe mark important events in her life. Her first love, her sisters wedding, her other sister elopement, many deaths, and many births. Her story is filled with up and downs in the meals that accompany them.
The book was originally written in Spanish and I believe a little of it was lost in translation. It reminds me of the numerous stories I read in high school Spanish class. There is a little disconnect in the English version. The magic the book speaks of reminds me of Mexican or Native American folk tales.
It is a very interesting book that tied together my love or food and reading. Tita's story is one of love for others and for the kitchen. I would highly recommend it!
Read on!
Lindsey