Marilyn’s Book Shelf
This is a new feature of the RS Presidency blog. Hopefully, I’ll add a new book each month. But first a few general observations about books. We all have our favorite reading genres. Mine is fiction because I love language and am fascinated with how authors tell us about life through a window into a story. But I branch into historical fiction, non-fiction and biography occasionally.
Some of my cardinal rules: I NEVER read a book unless I: 1) know something about the author or have read something by the author before; 2) have read a review by a trusted source; or 3) have the book recommended to me by someone I trust. I NEVER buy “check-out-stand” novels – the ones in small paperback format which are written by formula and usually sensational. I ALWAYS keep a record of everything I read – just a short summary, because sometimes, even the next day, I can’t remember the name of the main character.
That said, I’ll try to give you a variety of titles and include a brief summary and why I think the book is worthy of your reading time. I’m always available by phone 801/582-6176 or email: msmolka@mtnstream.com for other recommendations.
July’s Recommendation
Lee, Harper, To Kill a Mockingbird
If you missed reading this superb book when you were in high school, you owe it to yourself to read this classic piece of literature, especially since this is the fifty-year anniversary of its debut. Published in 1960, it has remained one of the best-selling social commentaries ever since. Harper Lee was often asked why she never wrote another book. Her answer was that she thought she could never write anything as good. Based loosely on an actual event that occurred in 1936 when Lee was ten years old, we are introduced to widower and attorney Atticus Finch and his gutsy daughter Scout. This was a novel about social commentary and racial prejudice long before its time. True, the movie starring Gregory Peck was excellent, and the play is gripping, but of course the book is better. Atticus defends a young black man who has been accused of raping a white woman in a southern town, a presupposed conviction. Atticus as a wise father and courageous attorney is portrayed in an unforgettable manner. It would be a great read for your teenaged kids as well. Even better, you could read it together. Even teenagers still like bedtime stories!
