Modern classics and a Nobel winner
Plus speculative novels, nonfiction, and the healing power of romance
Unlike January, February flew by—in spite of the fact that I was one week ahead in my mental calendar for most of the month. I continue to be more nervous and disillusioned with the state of the world, but somehow that has made my reading life more precious. Every book I read feels vital to me in this moment—whether its an escape, an explanation, or a reminder of how humans have faced the trials and tribulations of history. Thank goodness for books.
Since today is the first Sunday of the month, I’m sharing a little wrap up of what you may have missed on Substack as well as a preview of what’s coming up for the Patreon Book Club in March. You’ll also find the usual Links I Love and End Notes along with the books I’m currently reading.
Last month on Substack.
I got on my soap box about the role of English class again. This is a topic I’ve been thinking about for a while, and it felt good to get it on the page.
I’ve been making an effort to annotate my books when it feels right. Here are a few of the strategies that are serving me well:
I had a great conversation with Liz about book blurbs as part of This Month in Books. We also shared some really excellent books (of course!).
December will mark the 250th anniversary of the birth of Jane Austen. If you’re interested in planning an Austen year, I gathered some resources and suggested various ways to read them.
This week in books.
Now I’m reading…
A big chunky book by a beloved author that I’m hoping will end up in the Paperback Summer Reading Guide.
There are so many March books I want to read that I’m having trouble deciding where to start with new releases. This historical fiction is a top contender.
New on my TBR…
I’m going to buddy read this super buzzy book with
.
Links I love.
This is a fantastic piece about the way romance helped one reader through profound grief. (Guardian)
The best new books of winter, according to indie booksellers. (Electric Lit)
10 new nonfiction books to check out in March. (Lit Hub)
7 speculative works that offer powerful and social commentary. (Electric Lit)
3 new horror novels that put a fresh spin on old tropes. (NYT, gift link)
February’s best reviewed fiction. (Lit Hub)
It’s fun to stumble across an intriguing review of a book I haven’t heard of. (NPR)
March in the FM Literary Society.
This month in our Patreon Literary Society, we’re reading The Great Fire by Shirley Hazzard as our main Book Club selection and We Do Not Part by Han Kang as our Buzzy Book of the Month.
We’re also continuing with our slow read of Marlon James’s A Brief History of Seven Killings. We’ll finish James’s epic work of historical fiction this month and meet on Zoom to discuss in early April.
End Notes.
We got a waffle maker and it significantly improves 6am mornings with a preschooler.
I’m so glad White Lotus is back. This season feels a little different—but in a good way. I’m also enjoying Chris and Andy’s weekly chats about it.
I really loved this newsletter from
especially as I’ve been feeling two unpleasant things of late: exhaustion and professional jealousy.I had issues with The Atlantic article about college students who can’t read, but I still enjoyed this podcast episode getting deeper into the conversation and expanding into what’s happening with elementary schools and adult readers.
I actually don’t watch Severance but I am fascinated by the Gothic double, and this discussion was exceptional.
My mom, Louise, and I did a little staycation in Colorado Springs. We had a great time watching U.S. Synchronized Skating Championship practice sessions.
I’ve been feeling the urge to take a class. It’s been about five years since I did any formal professional development and I’m craving it! If you have any local Denver or online literature courses you recommend, please do share!
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Happy reading!
Sara
I gotta read The Great Fire. Been on my list forever.
Now I want to read Live Fast! That was a great review