Read in May

This past week I've read two books that I really loved. The first was a book group pick. Sastun by Rosita Arvigo, is a really endearing story. This book reminded me of Three Cups of Tea (possibly because I just saw Greg Mortenson?) - in that it shows what one person can do when they are really passionate and dedicated to their cause. Rosita is living with her husband and young daughter in Belize. She is a trained naprapath, and seeing patients near the place that she lives.

One day she is visited by a traditional healer, named Don Elijio. What unfolds is Rosita's apprenticeship with Don Elijio, and a very thoughtful story about what she learns from him. He is clearly an amazing and passionate healer, and imparts his wisdom to Rosita. I'd recommend this to anyone who has an interest in alternative healing, plants, or is just interested in a sweet and empowering story.

I also read all 752 pages of Wally Lamb's newest, The Hour I First Believed. I enjoyed reading, but didn't absolutely love, his first two books. This newest came with on a recommendation from Renata, so I decided to give it a go.

It's really, really hard to succinctly say what this book is about. It's about a couple who move from Connecticut to Littleton, Colorado. They both work at Columbine High School, and the wife is witness to the shootings in April of 1999. What unfolds in the aftermath is a story of her struggles as a survivor, but really focuses on Caelum, the main character. Moving back to his aunt's farm in Connecticut, he ends up discovering his family history.

I literally could not put this book down all weekend. I can't say that I'd recommend it - parts of it are really upsetting, and I was on edge for much of the time I read this. But it is truly engaging, and satisfying to read.

I am trying to read my way through The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand for one of my book groups - has anyone read it? I am on vacation this weekend, and hoping to catch up on some of my TBR books. We'll see how that goes!