Hi world! Things are pretty crazy right now, aren’t they? Wherever you are, I hope you are healthy, safe and happy. A lot of us have tons of unexpected time on our hands with all public activities and venues being suspended here in the U.S. for the next several weeks. In the midst of all this chaos, my husband and I bought a house and are moving this week. But, once things settle down and the work from home time is over for the day, I’ll definitely be curling up in my new reading nook with a good book in my hands.

If you’re looking for a new bit of reading, here’s what’s on my list and my nightstand (once the boxes are unpacked).

1. Writers and Lovers by Lily King
   This book is about life transitions which is probably why it’s caught my attention recently. Casey, the main character, is still pursuing a creative life while the people around her settle down. Like many of us, she fights for that creative outlet and that dream while her attention is dragged in other directions. Can’t wait to download this NY Times Bestseller and check it out!
2. American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins
   This book seems very timely. A story about people who lived normal lives and then due to circumstances end up on the run and strive for safety in across the border in the United States. I’m very intrigued by this one and can’t wait to read it!
3. Be With by Forrest Gander
   This book is the 2019 winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry. I purchased this book several months ago and love to savor the poems slowly. They are simply spectacular. Poetry is such a rich medium for writing and can be really enjoyable. Poetry doesn’t have to be inaccessible. It sometimes just requires a little more thought as you go 🙂
4. The Overstory by Richard Powers
   This is another Pulitzer winner from 2019 and one I’ve been fascinated by for some time. I haven’t read it yet, but I tried to get my book club interested and it was a no go. I get it. Probably not for everyone. But, a novel that is called “a paean to the natural world” and is said to be about trees sounds very interesting. Have any of you read it? I’d love to hear you thoughts!
5. Space Opera by Catherynne M. Valente
   This book doesn’t release until April 10, but the synopsis guarantees that it will be the ultimate escape from our current reality. An intergalactic gladiatorial pageant between sentient beings from throughout the universe. Sign me up! 🙂

Well this is the start of my spring COVID-19 social distancing reading list. What are you reading or what has captured your attention? Please share! Stay safe. Stay healthy. And if you ever want to chat about writing or anything else during this weird time, I’m happy to comply. I love connecting with fellow writers 🙂 Write on, friends!