Most nights spent at home these days, after we’ve put Phoebe down, prepared dinner and put away the dishes, I’m confronted with 3 choices: work on my laptop, watch TV or read a book. Lately I’m trying to do much less of the first two and more of the latter, and it’s amazing how much more relaxing my entire night feels when I let myself get lost in the pages of something engrossing and completely non-work related before I turn out the lights. Here are the books that are currently on my nightstand, and please leave a comment with any books you highly recommend – I’m always looking to add to next month’s list!
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. I loved it in high school, and I’m loving it even more the second time around. I can’t wait to see some of the most unforgettable characters in literary history come to life in this summer’s screen adaptation (who else is buying tix on opening day??)
Leon Naturally Fast Food by Henry Dimbleby and John Vincent. Have I ever mentioned that reading cookbooks is my very favorite way to unwind? This one is full of delicious, quick-prep recipes that are so perfect for my current stage of life, without sacrificing flavor or quality of nutritious, seasonal ingredients. I love that there’s a section devoted to meals that can be prepped in advance for those nights when you just need to come home to something delicious.
The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery. This is the latest selection for one of my book clubs (yeah, I’m in two) and I’m about to start reading it. Set in a posh Parisian apartment with a fifty-four year old protagonist who deliberately hides her passion for art and philosophy from her neighbors… that’s all I know right now, and I can’t wait to dive in.
French Kids Eat Everything by Karen Le Billon. This one comes highly recommended from friends who have raised exceptionally good little eaters, and I have no doubt I’ll pick up some great tips to put into practice as Phoebe starts moving from puréed baby food to more interesting meals. We’re already having so much fun exposing her to a new world of flavors and seeing which ones she naturally gravitates towards…and which ones are going to need a little more, ahem, practice.
Now it’s your turn! Let me know what you’re reading this month… and for other book ideas, be sure to check out the last few editions of On My Nightstand.
