I thought for a while that it might make sense to just scrap my book compilations since I mention what I’m reading in my Wednesday Weekly Journals. But then I remembered that I love reading book lists on other blogs and thought I might as well.

Just a little logistical note- all books will be linked in the title and are affiliate links, which means I’ll receive commission from any book purchase you make. Thanks in advance for your support!

What I read:

White Fragility by Robin DeAngelo

This book is SO not what I expected and I seriously thought the world of it. While I certainly don’t agree with everything the author says, I really appreciate that she called out bleeding-heart liberals as much as she did conservatives. The main takeaway? White people are so engrained to think “racism bad” that when we are told that what we said or did was racist, our MO tends to cry or get defensive. Which, of course, discourages people from correcting us and you can see where how the cycle continues. So, if someone tells you what you did was racist, instead of getting defensive, at least be willing to calmly ask them to explain more.

Code Name Helene by Ariel Lawhon

I’m a sucker for any novel having to do with World War II, especially women who were involved in the French resistance. This book is based on a true story and holy smokes, it’ll have you on the edge of your seat the entire time. SO good.

Everything is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo

I do love me a good self help book and this really got my but in gear. I do a book of this genre every quarter or so and they’re always a good kick in the pants. Recommend.

The Death and Life of the Great Lakes by Dan Egan

Nerd alert! I thought this book was going to be about human history of the Great Lakes, but it was really about the ecological history. It was FASCINATING. I grew up on Lake Erie and just love everything about the Great Lakes so learning about the changes and evolution throughout the years was SO interesting. Wait until you get to the part about white fish. SO interesting.

The Souls of Black Folk by W.E.B. DuBois

This classic is a must-read for all Americans. W.E.B. DuBois is a national treasure and this work will hopefully live on for years to come. It’s absolutely fantastic and a very timely read.

What I’ll Be Reading:

Southernmost by Silas House

When I read the description of this book, I knew I needed to read it. It’s about a southern pastor who becomes friends with a gay couple. As someone whose constantly misunderstood because of her friendships, I always love reading stories about characters I can relate to in this area.

The Pirates by Matthew West

Almost exactly a year ago, Jim and I were at the Atlantis in the Bahamas for one of the best vacations of our lives. It was incredible and, while the solitude of quarantine restrictions has been nice and all, I’m excited to go on a beach vacation again one day soon. ANYWAY, the Bahamas is where pirates headquartered during the Golden Age of Piracy and we went to the Pirate Museum in Nassau when we were there. Let’s just say pirates have a very interesting history and I look forward to learning more.

Brideshead Revisited by Evelyn Waugh

When people have herd thinking when it comes to something I consider nerdy, I have a tendency to not touch it with a 10000 foot pole. Alas, seemingly everyone from a rival college that I consider the epitome of Dork University is obsessed with this book so I refused to crack in open on principle because I’m mature. Well, I’ve gotten over myself and want to finally read it this fall.

A Prayer for Owen Meany- A Novel by John Irving

I can’t even begin to tell you how many people have recommended this book to me and it’s high time I read it. I’ll be honest–I’m not sure what it’s about but it’s apparently written in such an eloquent manner that so many people just adore it. I’ll report back.

Blackout by Candace Owens

This is an election year, after all. I first heard about Candace Owens after she made what I thought was a wildly inappropriate video about George Floyd and spoke out against it. In a moment of SJW, I was mad for all black people of the world until (wait for it) I realized that I don’t get to tell anyone, Candace Owens included, how to be black. When she cleaned the floor with Cardi B, I immediately became a big fan and knew that I MUST learn more about her. What a gem.

Promise Me, Dad: A Year of Hope, Hardship and Purpose by Joe Biden

In the spirit of election year, it’s only fair that I read a little something from the other side. I read Hilary’s book in 2016 and I’ve read Obama’s book, both of which are fantastic. While I certainly won’t be changing my vote, I think recognizing the humanity in others is very important in this day and age. I actually teared up when reading this book description and look forward to reading about the Biden’s loss of his son, even though I know it will be a sad read.

That’s all for today! What do you plan on reading this fall?