What if you were able to know how long you will live by the length of a string in a box you receive at your doorstep? That’s the premise of the book The Measure by Nikki Erlick. I had the opportunity to hear and meet this debut author at The Society of the Four Arts in Palm Beach.
The book is mesmerizing on many levels. It’s a fast read that delves into thought-provoking questions. Would you open the box? What will you do with the knowledge? Would you share the length of your string or keep it a secret?
It’s no wonder the book is now translated into 22 languages and this year’s book selection for incoming freshmen at Duke University. It’s a Read with Jenna choice and a New York Times bestseller.
The Measure is an intriguing allegory with unforgettable characters. Here’s the opening quote by Mary Oliver. “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”
I’m with author Nikki Erlick (left) at The Society of the Four Arts.
Whether you have the summer off or are working furiously, summer is still the best time to cozy up to new book. I just finished Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld. It’s light, fun and yes, romantic. If you are a fan of Saturday Night Live, you will love it. I read it with a mystery guest, and I will reveal who it is at the end of this post.
So if you don’t know what to read, I’ve compiled a list of sites to consult for your next reading adventure.
There are many celebrities who offer book suggestions. Of course, there’s Oprah. Here’s the complete list of her 100 choices to date. Click here. In addition to her, I especially likeReese Witherspoon’s picks (Reese’s Book Club) and Jenna Bush Hager’s choices (Read with Jenna).
If you are on Facebook, there are lots of reading groups to join where you can find some interesting books by genre. My favorite Facebook groups are: Friends and Fiction, Renee’s Reading Club and The Girlfriend Book Club.
Then, there’s the media sites. NPR picks are here. The Wall Street Journal has a summer beach reading list. The New York Times offers several lists with different genres. These sites sometimes are blocked to non-subscribers.
Another free site I enjoy is The Good Book Fairy. To view of photo of the Good Book Fairy and me, click here.
I’m also enjoying the free podcast The Bookcase with Charlies Gibson and his daughter Kate. I love the banter between them and their author interviews are great. I read the Sea Wife and I will Find You after listening to their podcast. I enjoyed both books and have more recommendations from them.
Now, for the mystery guest who read Romantic Comedy with me. It’s my one-year-old dog named Juno.
Motown Savvy 