On Reading II

In the last post, some of my favorite nonfiction books were listed, so today let’s take a look at fiction. With so many choices, where to begin?Historical fiction is a good starting place as it is not only entertaining it is based on real happenings.

Killer Angels by Michael Shaara is the Pulitzer winner that recreates the Battle of Gettysburg and is regarded as a classic of historical fiction. I was lucky enough to have him as a professor when he was at FSU.

The Woman Before Wallis by Bryn Turnbull is a page turner telling of the relationship between Thelma Morgan and the Prince of Wales. You might say she is responsible for the relationship between him and Wallis Simpson though that was an unintended consequence.

The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict, Victoria Christopher Murray is a fascinating story of Belle da Costa Greene who was hired by J.P. Morgan to curate a collection for his Pierpont Morgan Library. She was a powerful figure who had to hide her heritage in order to create Morgan’s legacy.

The Lions of Fifth Avenue by Fiona Davis is a thrilling read. As pieces disappeared from the New York Public Library, the main character, Sadie Donovan, determines to find out what is happening. The results of her search lead to some real surprises.

The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead is the Pulitzer winning follow up to The Underground Railroad. It is based on the story of a reform school that operated for more than 100 years in north Florida.

Well, these titles are enough to keep you busy for a while. Next up will be fiction, and I expect to be challenged as I sort through the titles I’ve read to name a few favorites. Until next time, happy reading and if you need a break read any poetry by Billy Collins!