Friday - Books, Weekend Plans, etc.

It's been a while since I participated in a book club Friday. If you're wondering why it's because I've been stuck trying to finish the same book for WEEKS! The crazy part about this is the book was just good enough I couldn't quit, but not good enough to suck me and get me done with it quick.

So for the book portion of today I should tell you I was finally able to finish The Help.

I have to say what I found most fascinating about this book is that Stockett was a first time author - the Help is her first book! What? Can I get a lunch date with her and talk about what she did right to have such a widely read first novel that went on to be a successful movie? I need some advice, sista.

I had a great talk with my Mom about her take on the movie (she's not a big fiction reader) and she said it hit home for her. My Mom grew up in small town North Carolina during the integration of schools so the racism that's dealt with the the Help as well as the overwhelming desire of that 'middle class' to be socialites isn't far from the truth of her childhood. It was fascinating talking through some of that with her after I finished the book.

I haven't watched the movie yet but I hope to in the near future (redbox style). As for the book - it was good but not great for me. I was glad I read it but with as slow a read as this was for me I would also somewhat hesitate to recommend it. Does that make sense?

I'm headed to a wedding tonight, the Junior Leagues Christmas market Saturday morning, some babysitting, lunch date with my friend Jason Sunday after church, etc. November and December are going to be delightfully busy with fun activities and parties. I can't wait to send out my Christmas cards and distribute my baked goods in the cute Christmas goodie boxes I bought.

What are you reading lately and what are your weekend plans?

Oh yeah, I'm already flying through the 4th book in James Patterson's Women's Murder Club series - 4th of July.

Love,
B