Off the Grid: Inside the Movement for More Space, Less Government, and True Independence in Modern America by Nick Rossen
I discovered this book on a list of recommended reading for homesteading. It’s not an instructional book. British author Nick Rossen traveled around the United States interviewing off the grid communities about their reasons for living off grid.
In the first few chapters he provides a lot of history on how the grid (electric and water) developed in the US. It was mind blowing to me as I’d never studied this topic and didn’t realize how corrupt the people behind these developments were, let alone how inefficient our grid system truly is. It was also fun to read about several areas I’m familiar with and to learn how solar power caught on in California, basically for all the marijuana growers who wanted power. I gave it 4 out of 5 stars.
The Four Tendencies: The Indispensable Personality Profiles That Reveal How to Make Your Life Better by Gretchen Rubin
I’ve been a fan of Gretchen Rubin’s work since reading The Happiness Project for our first book club meeting. I also enjoy her podcast, Happier. I was excited to dig into The Four Tendencies after my fiancé took the quiz and discovered he’s a rebel. I had been questioning whether I was a questioner or an upholder. I’ve finally made peace with the obvious questioner answer after taking the quiz 5 times and reading the book for more information. I find this framework, and really any personality studies, fascinating! I gave it 4 out of 5 stars.
Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates
I listened to this book in audio form, read by the author. This very personal story is written as a letter to the author’s son reflecting on his experience as a black man growing up and living in racially divided America. He touches on both American history and the current crisis in our nation. His words and flow are beautiful. The comparisons on living in France to living in America revealed cultural differences I hadn’t considered. Its a book too personal to give a rating. It is one I will be rereading. It was wonderful to have a window into someone’s mind who’s background and experiences are so different from my own.
First Frost by Sarah Addison Allen
I read my first Sarah Addison Allen book, Lost Lake, for book club but it was with Garden Spells that she became one of my favorite authors. I love the way she writes magical realism. First Frost is the follow up to Garden Spells and I was so happy to revisit the Waverly sisters and the magic apple tree. It was a real treat to learn how their lives had moved forward and uncover more family secrets. I’m hoping Allen continues writing about these characters. I gave it 5 stars.
Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg
I listened to this on audio as well. I know I’m enjoying the book when I don’t mind cooking and cleaning so I can keep listening. This is my first Fannie Flagg book but I’ve always enjoyed the movie version of Fried Green Tomatoes. Though the relationship between Idgie and Ruth is so downplayed in the film, I didn’t realize they were in love, but I also saw it for the first time as a child. The language threw me a little bit at first but otherwise this was one of the more enjoyable audiobooks for me. I gave it 4 out of 5 stars.
The Kind Worth Killing by Peter Swanson
This is our book club pick for the month. We’ve been heavy on the mystery/thrillers this year. The Kind Worth Killing reminded me of Gone Girl and The Girl on the Train with its own spin. It was fast paced capturing me in the first chapter and I didn’t guess the twists and turns coming. I gave it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
What are you reading this month?
