Books are for Adventurers and Homebodies.

"Books are the plane, and the train, and the road. They are the destination, and the journey. They are home." —Anna Quindlen

   There is something special about finding a good book and then finishing it. That book kept you company and shared things with you that before then, you did not know. It opened you up to new experiences and perspectives without judging you for not sharing the same beliefs. Books allow you to believe in magic well after you have grown old enough to think it is all nonsense. They take us on journeys we would never be brave enough to embark on if it wasn't for the constant will to turn the next page to see how the story would unfold. Books are also for everyone. Age does not matter to a book, and words have a special way of uniting us, young and old. 

Now you don't have to be a self proclaimed "book worm" in order to love reading. In fact if you actually find yourself having a hard time enjoying reading I'm quite sure you just haven't found the right book or books. I enjoy reading, or should I say adventuring, and I also enjoy taking friends on the journey, so I decided to share some books I found that I am sure you all will enjoy. Anything that can make you feel like you just took a great adventure while also making you feel like you arrived at home is certainly worth your time and these books do just that. I hope if you decide to read any of them you will share your thoughts with me because traveling in the world and also in the pages of books is best done together. 

Rosy Sunset Reading List 

1. Endurance: Shacklton's Incredible Voyage

This book was recommended to me by my Dad after our trip to Alaska. After finding out I hadn't read it he promptly ordered it and had it sent to me. I know I am late to this party, and many people have long ago gone on this adventure and experienced this amazing story. Better late than never though, and what a book! I feel like I was apart of the crew trying to survive the perils of the frozen sea and killer seals. This isn't just another survival story, but a real life miracle and I promise this is an adventure you'll be happy to undertake in the comfort of your home drinking some hot tea instead of on a piece of ice somewhere in Arctic. 

2. The Man Who Listens to Horses: The Story of the Real-Life Horse whisperer

I came across this book at a thrift store and it happened to be when my oldest daughter started to take horse riding lessons. I picked it up, thinking I would have a better understanding of horses but it turned into such a fascinating story of Monty Roberts as a person, as well as his amazing work with horses. You do not have to be a horse lover to appreciate this book but it will make you fall in love with horses. 

3. Barracoon The Story of the Last "Black Cargo"

One reason I read, is to broaden my understanding of the world. I am limited to the experiences I will have and of course cultures I will be apart of so reading allows me glimpses into the lives of others, even when those glimpses make me want to close my eyes and forget. This is a heart-wrenching story of what happened to many through the eyes of one man in particular, "Cudjo". This story isn't just about slavery but about life before and after. This is one you wish you did not have to read, but one you won't want to put down because you sense just by reading it you get a better understanding of the hurt of many people. When you understand hurt you are able to love better and that’s really what this world needs more of. 

4. The Guersney Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society 

Full disclosure, I have not read this book but instead watched the movie. I know to book lovers that is a crime but I truly loved the movie and was recently gifted the book from my sister and will be reading it very soon. If the book is anything like the movie I know you'll enjoy it! Whats not to love about a World War II story about heroism, books and love found with a healthy dose of humor. Bonus: This book has high reviews on Amazon, we all know we like that. 

5. The President Will See You Now

I actually enjoy political or historical books however I know quite a few people who find it a chore to read anything of the political nature. This book however is not focused on politics and it is mostly about the life of Ronald Reagan from after He was out of office. This book is written by Peggy, his devoted personal secretary and gives us a glimpse into the life of a man we are all proud to call our former President. Also in case your wondering, He is my favorite President! 

6. Mary Poppins 

For Christmas my little girls received the book Mary Poppins from their grandparents. Books are such great gifts aren't they? Anyway over the school break we read it together and we all really loved it. We watched Mary Poppins Return during Christmas Break too but I again must confess we have not see the original Mary Poppins Movie. I know, I am a bad mom but at least we read the book right?! I love the quirkiness and magic, Mary Poppins brings to life. 

Happy Reading and as always May All Your Sunsets Be Rosy!