That Hideous Strength by C. S. Lewis - link to my post about the whole trilogy (received as a gift from my brother-in-law)
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley - A friend and I both read this book in preparation for the Netflix movie. Then she and her husband came and watched with my and Kansas Dad, which was fun. I was surprised to realize I had never read it before. It's a much more philosophical book than I expected, with relatively little "action." There are a lot of important questions raised by the book about moral development, scientific advancements, responsibility, mercy, and forgiveness. I'm glad I read it. (library copy)
The Egypt Game by Zilpha Keatley Snyder - I picked this up at a library sale years ago. I was thinning our easier chapter books and decided to read it myself. April has to deal with some pretty heavy topics (neglect and a murderer on the lose), which surprised me. Overall, my younger son and I agreed that it was just an ok book, and not worth the shelf space anymore. (purchased copy)
The Madonnas of Leningrad by Debra Deah - This book was recommended by a local bookstore owner for a summer reading challenge. He actually recommended it for my 17 year old daughter, but I ended up reading it instead. I think I would let her read it, if she wanted, but I didn't hand it over to her. The book alternates between Leningrad in 1941 and modern day America. Marina, a Russian immigrant, is suffering from Alzheimer's, and her past and present become more confused in her mind. It's beautifully written, though tragic. (purchased copy)
Echo by Pam Muñoz Ryan - This is a lovely book tracing the path of a magical harmonica through the hands of three children during the second world war. I listened to the audiobook edition, and the inclusion of musical performances throughout elevate the audiobook; it's one of the few books that are truly better as audiobooks. I was so absorbed in the story that I found myself hiding in my bedroom long after I finished folding clothes to keep listening. Though this book is enjoyable for all ages, it's definitely written at more of a middle grade level. Highly recommended. (purchased audiobook)
Humility Rules by J. Augustine Wetta - link to my post (parish library copy)
Travelers to Unimaginable Lands: Stories of Dementia, the Caregiver, and the Human Brain by Dasha Kiper - This book, written by a therapist for caregivers of loved ones with dementia, explores how the healthy functioning of the human brain in the caregiver can exacerbate friction in the relationship, mainly by preventing the caregiver from reacting "logically" to the actions of their loved one. It's written with great compassion for caregivers and their struggles. (library copy)
Memory is so integrated into every aspect of life--from thinking, to communicating, to forming and sustaining relationships, to creating continuity, meaning, and coherence--that its disappearance is incomprehensible. We simply have no cognitive framework that allows for its absence in others. (p. 19)
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