Someone asked me the other day if I read anything other than children’s books. Good question! I do read a ton of children’s books, no doubt about it. However, I also read adult books. Here are the last five books I have read that were not found on my children’s bookshelves.

All the President’s Men by Bob Woodward & Carl Bernstein

I’m a little embarrassed to admit that I haven’t read this before. I enjoyed this book immensely, but I love history so I may be a bit biased. My husband and I had several good discussions based on what I read in this book. Definitely worth reading!

Before Midnight by Rex Stout

I always enjoy a good mystery and for some reason I find myself reading period mysteries lately. Stout's books were published during the 1950's. (It might be that love of history I mentioned above!)

Living Off the Land Women Farmers of Today by Josephine Russell, photography by Lily Lenihan

This is definitely my random selection for the month. I picked this up at the library without giving it too much thought. The book was just okay. I enjoyed learning a bit about the current state of farming in Ireland, specifically the direction the EU has forced them to go. Several of the women’s stories were interesting. My take away from this book is the reminder of how simply some families live. I am reminded that Americans are wealthy beyond measure when compared to many other industrialized nations. How easily I forget that. It is good to be reminded and to appreciate all that I have.

Neither Here Nor There by Bill Bryson

Bryson is a prolific travel author. I have read several of his books and frankly they have been hit or miss for me. My personal favorite by this author is A Short History of Nearly Everything--decidedly not a travel book. A few weeks ago I found myself in the airport with several hours before my flight home. I had already finished the books I brought with me, so I grabbed this one at the airport bookstore. I bought it simply because I knew what I was getting. I had spent two days in meetings and wanted a book that would be entertaining and not require a great deal of concentration on my part. This book definitely met those criteria!

As a college student Bryson and his friend backpacked across Europe. In this book, twenty years have passed and Bryson decides to re-trace their route. I found myself chuckling on the first page. Soon I was laughing out loud and a little later I do believe I may have even guffawed. The story line wanes a bit near the end and in typical Bryson fashion he does go on a few political rants. In the interest of full disclosure there are also a couple of scenes with crude guy-humor. But, isn’t that the beauty of reading? You can SKIM!

Benny & Shrimp by Katarina Mazetti

My final book for today, Benny & Shrimp, is set in rural Sweden. I just started this book so can’t offer much of a review. So far I have found it easy to read and anticipate I will finish it quickly.

So there you have it. The adult books I have read recently. A rather eclectic list, isn’t it? What have you been reading lately? I'd love to hear your recent reads!

***Don’t forget to enter the Horse Naming Contest! Tomorrow is the last day for entries, winner will be announced on Friday. My whole family has enjoyed reading the names that have been suggested so far. Thank you!