January 6, 2012

2011 Reads

“The more you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go.”
-Dr. Seuss
2011 Reads


  • A Disciples Life by Bruce C. Hafen=A+
  • I very much enjoyed this book about Neal A Maxwell. I would recommend it to anyone. I would also highly recommend studying it closely with Elder Maxwell's talks and BYU/CES devotionals.

  • Peter and the Starcatchers by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson=A
  • One of my mission companions recommended this when I came home from my mission. Its an easy read all about how Neverland and Peter Pan came to be. I'm probably partial because I love the story of Peter Pan.

Touch the Top of the World by Erik Weihenmayer=A

Simply inspiring. A man who has hiked all of the major mountain ranges blind. It inspired me to look past my excuses. Great read aloud book.


The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom=A+
Wow. If you haven't read it go to the library today and get it. She taught me so much about WWII, life as a prisoner, loving others and forgiveness.



October Sky
by Homer Hickam=A
This is also a favorite story. The book is (of course) WAY better than the movie... which is saying something because the movie is pretty darn good.

1776 by David McCullough (audio)=A
I listened to 1776 during my long car rides. It was a great learning experience. Great writing.

Emma by Jane Austen=A
Its a classic. Enough said.

The Chronicles of Narnia (all of them) by C.S. Lewis=A+
This was my first time reading them. I literally couldn't put them down (even during my family vacation). They are also a MUST for every a. Christian and b. Child.

Beyond the Blackboard by Stacey Bess=A
Also an inspirational story about a teacher who taught in the homeless school in SLC. Quick read. Excellent voice.

Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery (audio)=A+
Anne kept me company for a few weeks while I exercised. She was the perfect companion. Lots of laughs. Again, excellent writing.

The Help by Kathleen Stockett=A-
This might be the first time in my life that I have said that the movie is better than the book. A little slow. Easy read. Good story.

Pygmalion by George Bernard Shaw (audio)=A
Eliza also kept me company while I exercised. George Bernard Shaw is a fascinating read.

3 Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson=B-
I have to admit it was an excellent story although I often got distracted by a. the poor writing and b. always pondering about why he would lie about his "experiences."

The Marvelous Adventures of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo=A+
I received this as a Christmas present and read it all the next day. It is an easy independent read, however, it is a sweet story and quite thought provoking. I will reread it often I'm sure.