One thing I've been doing lately is reading. Thanks to a generous gift card from my mom and spending time with my father-in-law (who also loves to read) I have been able to finish a few books on my list. Here are my top favorites:





"Tale of Despereaux"
A beautifully written and illustrated tale. This is a classic, warm treasure. The illustrations are beautiful examples of light and emotion. (I am now a big fan of Timothy Basil Ering and Kate DiCamillo ) I look forward to reading this to the pud when she is old enough.




"The true meaning of Smekday"

I love Adam Rex. I checked "Psssst" out from the library and didn't want to return it. I knew this guy could draw and had a wicked sense of humor. So, I was really excited to check this middle grade novel out. It didn't dissapoint. The story is fantastic. You truly care for the characters and cheer them on through all of their adventures. The illustrations were also a treat. A great book, I'm very happy that I own it.




"Kabul Beauty School"

I had read about this book but it is not one that I would have chosen. My father-in-law picked it up at our last bookstore run and it was very good. Not for the kiddies, it is an entertaining informative read with many funny and sad parts. It also resonated for me as someone who is married to a differnt culture. (I do mean to the culture, you don't just marry the person) My husband is from India so the cultures are different but it was interesting, funny and heartbreaking to read of the adventures of an average American hairdresser in Kabul. I hope she goes back and writes a sequel.