What was great about this summer? I stumbled on a few fine reads, herewith shared.
Lilies of the Field—William E. Barrett
Bold simple tale of a man who finds his calling with a flock of German nuns.
The Wild Birds—Wendell Berry
Strikingly true agrarian views of life, delivered by the lawyer of a rural town in Kentucky.
Stargirl—Jerry Spinelli
Ever want to be a free spirit? Remember anyone in high school who ever dared? Stargirl shows you how.
The Beast in the Jungle—Henry James
You may think nothing happens in this novella, until the work explodes inside you the next day.
Cranford—Elizabeth Gaskell
Doilies and tea in a small English town, simpler days and ways. The dramatic ardency of Gaskell’s novel North and South gives way to gentle portraits of country women at home and in company. One recounting of a brother's waywardness brought me to tears.
IBS Cookbook—Heather Van Vorous
This woman knows great food. Amazing fallen chocolate soufflé with raspberry sauce. Scrumptious orange flower bread. Zesty fresh mango salsa on grilled shrimp. Delectable roasted cauliflower soup. I cook from this book all of the time for guests, who never guess the dishes are low fat. Unless the recipe says it’s from Van Vorous’ mother or grandmother, it will likely be delicious. Van Vorous' recipes are pure food love.
Tattoos on the Heart—Father Gregory Boyle
An oasis of human caring, Boyle works with fatherless young men in East L.A. To quote a friend, Father Boyle “is a fascinating human being, doing more positive good than all the government agencies combined." Bask in compassion. Read his book.
And treat yourself to another compassionate hard-working man, Sydney Poitier in Lilies of the Field. The first words from the Mother's mouth when he hops out of his dusty car,
"God is good, He has sent me a big strong man."
Thanks to the best picture project for the Poitier photo.
Thanks to the best picture project for the Poitier photo.
