Experienced reader Caleb discusses adjusting to big life changes like marriage and moving, seeking new reading strategies. Recommendations include immersive books to keep him engaged till the end, exploring emotional depth in literature, and embracing surprises in reading for a season of discovery.
Navigating life changes can lead to a shift in reading habits.
Planning reads based on season or events may need adjustment post-life changes.
Embracing a fresh outlook on reading can enhance the reading experience.
Exploring plotty books can provide engaging reads during life transitions.
Deep dives
A Delightful Culinary Adventure: The Supper of the Lamb by Robert Ferrar Kapon
Set in the backdrop of a unique dinner party recipe laid out by the author himself, this book weaves a narrative that fuses humor, philosophy, and the joy of cooking. With an introduction by food writer Ruth Reichl, Kapon's witty tone and engaging style promise a delightful exploration of food and life experiences.
City Life and Blackouts: City on Fire by Garth Risk Hallberg
Immerse yourself in 944 pages of intricately plotted storytelling set against the backdrop of a historical blackout in 1980s New York City. With a punk rock band, a dysfunctional wealthy family, and an interconnected cast of characters, this epic novel promises a deep dive into the interconnected lives of the city dwellers.
Historical Mystery and Haunting Motels: The Sundown Motel by Simone St. James
Embark on a moody and evocative journey at a rundown motel in upstate New York, where mysterious occurrences and a haunting atmosphere set the stage for a captivating mystery. Simone St. James crafts a gripping narrative that blends elements of horror, suspense, and ghostly encounters.
Epic Storytelling in 1980s New York: City on Fire by Garth Risk Hallberg
Dive into a tale of punk rock, a dysfunctional wealthy family, and a blackout in New York City during the 1980s. With intricate plotting and interconnected characters, this 944-page novel offers a sweeping exploration of life in the city during a tumultuous period.
Exploration of Hauntings and Mysteries: The Sundown Motel by Simone St. James
Experience the haunting atmosphere of a rundown motel in upstate New York, where mysterious events and ghostly encounters unfold. Simone St. James weaves a gripping tale of suspense, horror, and eerie happenings that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
An Intriguing Culinary Journey: The Supper of the Lamb by Robert Ferrar Kapon
Embark on a culinary adventure with this book that combines humor, philosophy, and the joy of cooking in a unique dinner party setting. With an introduction by food writer Ruth Reichl, Kapon's wit and engaging narrative promise an exploration of food and life experiences that will leave readers delighted.
Imaginative Exploration of Youth and Loss: Like a Love Story by Abdi Nazemian
This novel offers a poignant exploration of youth, friendship, and first love against the backdrop of 1980s New York City. Abdi Nazemian's storytelling captures the complexities of identity, relationships, and activism during a time marked by the AIDS crisis and social change.
Historical Reflections and Humorous Tales: The Supper of the Lamb by Robert Ferrar Kapon
Experience a delightful culinary reflection intertwined with humor, philosophy, and the joy of cooking in this book. With insights into the art of cooking and life, Kapon's engaging narrative, accompanied by an introduction by Ruth Reichl, invites readers on a charming journey through food and personal experiences.
When big changes happened in Caleb Wilson-Johnson's life, his reading life shifted, too. Today, he's eager for Anne's suggestions after two exciting changes derailed his previous strategy of choosing his next read.
Caleb used to love planning his entire reading year in advance, and especially enjoyed pairing books with the season—sometimes down to the specific month or even day. But Caleb recently got married and moved across the state to live with his new husband. Both of these joyful events shook up his previous reading routine. Caleb's interested in exploring what a new path forward might look like as he enjoys these other new starts in his life.
Today, Caleb and Anne explore how Caleb can bring a fresh outlook to planning his upcoming reads, and Anne recommends a handful of engaging and plotty books that will keep Caleb reading until the last page.
Our 13th annual Summer Reading Guide is only a few weeks away from landing in inboxes, and we'd love to invite you to join us for this year's book party. We'll be hosting two live events, both on May 16th, and you're invited. Get all of the details and find out how to get your guide at our at modernmrsdarcy.com/srg.