January 2024 Books Read and Rated

(For context: I only give 5 stars for books that are so good, I expect to re-read them.)

Excellent Women by Barbara Pym ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2

Really enjoyed reading this one. It was so

relatable.

Breath: the new science of a lost art by James Nestor ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Sometimes this book seems cuckoo, but the evidence presented by the author is compelling. Changes I’ve made because of this book:

1. serving more raw veg for the whole family, because chewing is vital for the development and strength of the dental palate, leading to better breathing and straighter teeth.

2. Deliberately breathing through only my nose when exercising.

The Dark Lord of Derkhom by Dianna Wynn Jones ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Princess Bride type humor and a great story. This was a re-read.

Scythe by Neal Schusterman ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Interesting (and often gory) distopia. Have not read the full trilogy yet.

Red Earth, White Lies: Native Americans and the Myth of Scientific Fact by Deloris Vine Jr ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2

The author’s argument that Native histories should not be dismissed by scientists without consideration is fair and valid. That some scientific theories get entrenched without adequate proof is evident. The native histories he shares that line up with geological evidence are fascinating. But the author is extremely bitter and cynical about both the scientific community and Christianity. While his feelings are understandable, his bitterness almost obscures his message, especially in the opening chapters.

Defy the Stars by Claudia Gray ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Really enjoyed this Sci-fi novel, and I’ve finished the trilogy today, so I can report that the ending makes sense in the universe the author has created. 😅so many trilogies have rushed, unbelievable endings, I’m so glad this wasn’t one of them.

Star girl by Jerry Spinelli ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️