I’m supposed to be writing and I think I probably will, once the little guy is in bed later tonight, so in the meantime, I’m trying to decide what book to read while I curl up next to him on the sofa (he’ll be watching The Backyardigans).
I’ve just finished up two excellent middle grade mysteries: The Mask on the Cruise Ship and Shadows on the Train, both by Melanie Johnson. I’ll be reviewing each of these shortly, so I’ll just say right now that these are superb mysteries, and if you’re like me, you’ll feel highly entertained, very involved and deep in the story – for me, classic signs of a very good read, regardless of the age of target audience.
So anyway, I’ve been pondering (and procrastinating, but you all knew that. I haven’t been particularly stellar when it comes to my writing lately). Should I continue along the middle grade mystery path? Along these lines, I have The Horizontal Man, by Michael Dahl in my TBR.
Or should I switch genres completely and plunge into a bit of children’s fantasy? (I’ve been on a children’s books kick lately). I have Hatching Magic, by Ann Downer and The Anybodies, by N.E. Bode here, too. Then there’s Hannah’s Winter, by Kierin Meehan, which sounds like an absolutely delightful read.
To complicate matters, there are the two adult mysteries I’ve started reading – only a few pages of each, so it’s not like I’ve gotten very far into them. Louise Penny’s The Brutal Telling beckons; I love the world of Three Pines and Inspector Gamache very much.
And there’s The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, by Stieg Larsson – which I’ve been hesitant to pick up right now because I’ve just realized via someone’s tweet on Twitter that it’s about a rather dark subject, and I’m not sure if I’m really in the mood for a whole lot of graphic details right now. (I have emails out to two bloggers I respect highly who’ve read the book, to see exactly how graphic it is; I know. I’m such a wuss.) Update: both of them say great read, definitely dark, not-to-be-missed and yes, I should be able to skim over anything too graphic. Very helpful, and now I’m leaning toward Louse Penny until I’m more ready for something darker.
Decisions, decisions! I’m definitely a moody reader, and it’s always such a challenge when I can’t quite determine what mood I’m in.
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{ 8 comments… read them below or add one }
I’m reading The Girl With the Dragon Tatoo. Not only is it dark, but I have had to make extensive notes, just to keep up with who is who and what is what! I’m going through it much more slowly than I usually read because there is a lot to absorb and remember. And as I get farther in, I need a break from the darker parts! The Brutal Telling is a much quicker read, especially if you are already familiar with the series. But descriptions of the repasts will make you hungry! :–) I’m not familiar with the other books.
I hope this helps somewhat! :–)
.-= rhapsodyinbooks´s last blog ..Review of “Cotton Comes to Harlem,” by Chester Himes =-.
I vote for The Brutal Telling!
.-= Kathy´s last blog ..Books Bought =-.
I didn’t like Anybodies – never did more than skim it. But I loved Hatching Magic – fun and exciting fantasy with plenty of humor and some deeper parts. If you want a light fantasy read, I’d go for Downer! (You have read
.-= Jennifer´s last blog ..New Cart! =-.
I am really looking forward to reading The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo. I’m trying to wait for the right mood to read it as well.
.-= Nicole´s last blog ..Wife of the Gods, by Kwei Quartey =-.
As you know I loved The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. I’ve been meaning to read Louise Penny too. If only the hardest thing we ever had to face was which book to read next! I don’t think you’re gong to go wrong with whatever book you pick.
.-= Beth F´s last blog ..A-Z Wednesday: Cod by Mark Kurlansky =-.
I’m a very moody reader too and there are some books I just can’t handle. Villains who are psychotic really creep me out, and I’m not a fan of sci fi or fantasy. (Exception: The Lord of the Rings series.) Sounds like maybe you need a break from your to be read pile. Shake up your reading with something different and see if it doesn’t change your mood. I’m reading Joan Baez’ autobiography from 1987 in honor of Woodstock, a book sale find, as a change from my mystery/history/mystery/history routine.
.-= Barbara´s last blog ..No Social Security Raises for Two Years? =-.
I realize it’s been many hours since you wrote this post so your mood has probably changed by now. I’m curious to know what you picked. If you are still looking for advice, I’d go with Kathy and make another vote for The Brutal Telling.
.-= Margot´s last blog ..Wondrous Words #29 =-.
Yes, I did end up picking The Brutal Telling. I’m going to ease gently over to a darker mood that way
But I have every intention of reading The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo – I’ve heard too many wonderful things about it to let a few dark parts stop me!