Random reading program

Occasionally I come across a blog where the owner has embarked on methodically reading their way through the alphabet. I found that idea intriguing, and decided to start my own reading program. I'm going to be reading fiction from A to Z, by author's last name, with the books chosen at random from my public library's shelves. By random, I mean standing in the section that applies, closing my eyes, and picking a book totally at random!
Why random? I want to force myself to read books that are totally different than what I would normally choose to read. Plus, I love surprises! Each new letter will bring a new surprise.
I've already read the letter "A" book, which is The River Wife, by Jonis Agee.

This book, set in southeastern Missouri on the Mississippi River, began in 1811 during the New Madrid earthquake. The story, spanning generations, followed a family from the early 1800's to the 1930's. I would classify this as historical fiction. It was clear that the author did some research on the area and the different time periods.
This book was well written and held my interest. Every time I sat down to read, I was quickly drawn into the story. The characters were well developed and believable.
If you're prone to melancholy, however, this is not the book for you. The plot seemed to focus on the dark side of life, with an abundance of human tragedy, sadness and violence.
I identified with the book because of the setting, and because I love history. My own family settled in Missouri around 1850, a few hundred miles from where this book is set. My family, however, didn't experience even a fraction of the drama and passion of the family in the book!
I enjoyed this book, and would like to read more from this same author.
I'm looking forward to my random "B" pick!

Louise

It's been a long, long time............

.....since I made a blog post. I'll try to do better!

I intended to use the blog to keep track of UFO progress, and of acquisition & depletion of fabric. Like many quilters, I have a large fabric stash. Every year, fabric designers create more & more beautiful fabric, and I just can't sew fast enough to keep up! My goal, for the rest of this year, is to dispose of (use up or donate) a net of at least 10 yards of fabric per month. I got off to a bad start this month. I visited the sale room at a local quilt store and took these home:


It's about 8.75 yards of fabric. The light color yardage is a good neutral reproduction print and the brownish fabric will make a great antique-looking backing, perhaps for a civil-war or 1890-1900 era quilt. Reproduction fabrics are my weakness!

As for UFOs, well, I only finished 3 so far this year. I've worked on lots and lots of projects, but I lose enthusiasm when it comes to sandwiching and quilting. I have 4 projects that are almost done and I intend to finish them this month.

This is the book I'm currently reading:
Yes, it's a history textbook. And no, I'm not taking a class. I took history years ago in high school & college, but forgot most of it. I just need a refresher class so I don't feel so ignorant about our country's beginnings, and this book is interesting and easy to read, probably high school or freshman college. I bought it at a thrift store, and it's in perfect condition, likely never read.


I'm trying to read about 25 pages a day, and at over 1,000 pages that will take several months! I'm in no hurry. After this one, I have a college political science textbook to read. I want to be more informed on how all the branches of our government works.

Louise


UFOs YTD - 3
Fabric status beginning 9-1-10 - + 8.75 yds