Last week I had book club with two of my dearest friend, Melina and Talena. With Melina on the other side of the country, we formed this celebration of literary works so we could enjoy doing something together even though we aren't together. For our book club meetings Talena and I gather around my laptop with Melina on video chat. (I love technology.) Our conversations revolve around what is going on in our lives, inside jokes, a few random stories, a little reminiscing and then we get down to business and discuss the latest book we read.
This time around we read Peace Like a River by Leif Enger. It was unique story. The story is about a boy named Reuben who struggles with asthma and his unusual family. Reuben's older brother Davy is a runaway fugitive who has been charged for murder, which is a controversy itself. Reuben finds himself along with his father and sister on a cross-country search for Davy. During this time, Reuben becomes aware that his father, who is a man of faith, has connection to God and can perform miracles.
I will stop there, because I don't want to give too much away of the story. However, I found this book thought provoking. I liked its spiritual nature and how it portrays that ordinary people can have a relationship with and know God in their personal lives. My favorite character of the book was Reuben's father, Jeremiah and how he was portrayed with such strong faith. I also thought the book was beautifully written. I loved the way Enger used descriptions to unfold the story. However, at times the story seemed a little slow. My one disappointment with the book was that I had hoped for more growth in some of the main characters. After all that they had been through, I guess I expected more of a change of heart or overcoming of some weaknesses. But overall, it was an interesting book.
Jan's Rating:
(In case you were wondering, Melina gave it 5 stars and Talena gave it 3.)
In other news, I know people usually talk about the weather when they have nothing else to talk about. However, I feel the need to share that I'm freezing, all the time. At work, at home, in my car. I can't get away from the feeling that I'm living in a frozen tundra. This happens every year, when spring seems so far away and the snow and ice have become my constant, frigid companions. However, last night I listened to the CES fireside and I'm trying so hard to remember the advice Elder Christofferson gave, take things one day at a time. So I am doing my best to have courage and bear the coldness for a little longer. I'm finding that snuggling down in my blankets and listening to Danny strumming his guitar in the other room (which I'm loving) does help. (Yes, it has gotten to the point that I need courage to face the winter.)
This time around we read Peace Like a River by Leif Enger. It was unique story. The story is about a boy named Reuben who struggles with asthma and his unusual family. Reuben's older brother Davy is a runaway fugitive who has been charged for murder, which is a controversy itself. Reuben finds himself along with his father and sister on a cross-country search for Davy. During this time, Reuben becomes aware that his father, who is a man of faith, has connection to God and can perform miracles.
I will stop there, because I don't want to give too much away of the story. However, I found this book thought provoking. I liked its spiritual nature and how it portrays that ordinary people can have a relationship with and know God in their personal lives. My favorite character of the book was Reuben's father, Jeremiah and how he was portrayed with such strong faith. I also thought the book was beautifully written. I loved the way Enger used descriptions to unfold the story. However, at times the story seemed a little slow. My one disappointment with the book was that I had hoped for more growth in some of the main characters. After all that they had been through, I guess I expected more of a change of heart or overcoming of some weaknesses. But overall, it was an interesting book.
Jan's Rating:
(In case you were wondering, Melina gave it 5 stars and Talena gave it 3.)
In other news, I know people usually talk about the weather when they have nothing else to talk about. However, I feel the need to share that I'm freezing, all the time. At work, at home, in my car. I can't get away from the feeling that I'm living in a frozen tundra. This happens every year, when spring seems so far away and the snow and ice have become my constant, frigid companions. However, last night I listened to the CES fireside and I'm trying so hard to remember the advice Elder Christofferson gave, take things one day at a time. So I am doing my best to have courage and bear the coldness for a little longer. I'm finding that snuggling down in my blankets and listening to Danny strumming his guitar in the other room (which I'm loving) does help. (Yes, it has gotten to the point that I need courage to face the winter.)
sounds like your house may not be very well insulated. you should get a space heater, that's what we did when we lived in a basement apartment. it really helps warm up the room you are in. either that or come to st. george, it's in the 50's now! and it's gonna reach 55 this week. i don't want you to be cold, sister!
ReplyDeleteBasement apts are often cold, but come summer, you'll be glad about that. Be sure you wear warm socks and lots of layers-and cuddle up to Danny.
ReplyDeleteThat books sounds interesting, and maybe more life like than you realize; how often do real people make the dramatic changes they should?
I loved the fireside too. Good advice, one day at a time.