Adult

Need to read a book quickly to feel better about yourself? Read a book of photography! I really enjoyed Joseph’s photos of bookshelves and record stores as art in his native Cleveland.

As the summer days wind down, why not treat yourself to a lazy afternoon reviewing this superb collections of poems from one of America’s finest poets, Langston Hughes? He is one of my favorites.

Urban was an award-winning teacher and leader in the character education movement, and this quick read provides a simple framework for anyone, especially students, to follow in order to excel in life.

I have been in sort of a rut lately, questioning where I am going with my life. My pastor shared with us a passage from this book, and it instantly lifted my spirits. Nelson clearly writes about “the romance of self-discovery,” and this book reminded me to always appreciate the journey and focus on my own choices. A lovely book.

I admit that when I think of Joel Grey, I usually think of the MC from Cabaret or Chiun from Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins (one of my guilty pleasures). After watching a wonderful piece on Grey’s photography featured on the best television program on the air, CBS Sunday Morning, I rushed to the bookstore and bought this collection of his photographs. Photography books are the perfect books for truly lazy readers, and, while I do not know a lot about photography, I am always inspired by what photographers focus on. This book touched me by how much I learned about Grey through his photographer’s eye.

The page-turning true story of survivors of a 19th century whaling ship known as the Essex that inspired Melville’s Moby Dick. Um – let’s just say that the survivors wind up in a few flimsy lifeboats, and, once they get hungry, cabin boy Owen gets the short end of the stick.

Just finished this enjoyable travel book about the American Southwest. I really enjoyed one chapter in particular about John Nichols and The Milagro Beanfield War, as I love that book and the film (even if the film caused havoc in northern New Mexico, which is just about one of the most beautiful areas anywhere). The book also features a favorite locale of mine: Bisbee, Arizona.

Sick of all the negative news in the media? Here’s a trick for staying positive: read positive books. Christenson delivers some gems of homespun wisdom in both a light-hearted and heart-warming way. The perfect cure for the nightly news blues.

I had to read this book after watching the hilarious movie version with Chevy Chase. What readers will discover is that the book is not as light as the movie, but the storyline makes a great detective thriller. The dialogue is superb. Like most books, I’d rate this one better than the movie, although I couldn’t get Chevy Chase out of my head as I was reading the book (I had to see the movie again after I read it – both are fantastic).

Here’s a great book for executives to read on a short flight. Don’t appreciate the daily trials and tribulations of a stay-at-home mother? After losing his job, McKenna got to play Mr. Mom with his three kids while his wife “brought home the bacon.” Hilarity and wisdom ensue in this quick-read that is sure to bring a smile to your face.

This one reads like a kid’s book, and I think parrotheads will get a kick out of it. Reading Buffett is just about as relaxing as listening to his music. And for those of you who love a little Cliff Clavin-like trivia, did you know that Jimmy Buffett is one of a select number of authors to top the New York Times bestseller list in both fiction and non-fiction?

Why did I choose this book? Lots of reasons, but three in paricular: (1) I like Maria Shriver, and I wanted to show a bit of support for her during what must be a very rough time in her life; (2) what better way to start a new school year than to push yourself with what amounts to a terrific graduation speech; and (3) the book can be read while waiting at the doctor’s office!

Did you know that I am a weight loss expert? I’ve lost over 1,000 pounds! The problem is that I have gained over 1,220 pounds, for a net gain of 220 pounds. I have formed a lifetime of poor eating habits, and my wife has been instrumental in prompting me to reconsider my nutrition. So grateful for this reading gem, courtesy of Kayla Moffett. Moffett’s wonderfully readable book provides practical tips that encourage me to stop dieting and start living – based on wiser choices. What is most inspiring about this book is that Moffett practices what she preaches, as she has implemented her strategies in helping her lose over 70 pounds – and keep it off!

It took me too long to include Dave Barry on one of my lists. His writing is among the funniest, and he has written enough books to warrant his own list. This is one of the shorter ones, but none are too long (and all are very funny).

I read this book from cover-to-cover waiting at the airport and flying from San Jose to Los Angeles. Susnow takes a harrowing experience from his childhood and uses it as a metaphor for life lessons. Filled with practical advice that I think could really benefit all those looking to frame their lives in a more positive way.