March 2024 Reads and Appreciation of Emergency Response Providers

A Month of Reading, Reflection, and Appreciation

A life without books? I truly can't imagine it. Every day, I receive requests to review books from all genres, and I can’t help but dive into them with excitement. There's something special about exploring new stories, ideas, and voices. In addition to the books I review, I also enjoy spending time browsing libraries and independent bookstores, where I always seem to find something new to discover.

March has been a month of change, as we "sprung ahead" and welcomed the longer days and extra hours of sunshine. To take full advantage of this, we’ve been making the most of the warmer weather by taking a few day trips to the lake. It’s been a refreshing way to enjoy the beauty of nature and get outdoors after the long winter months.

However, March also brought some severe storms to our area, causing significant damage. During times like these, I want to take a moment to express my deep appreciation for the emergency response teams—those brave men and women who show unwavering dedication and diligence in their work. Their commitment to helping those in need during times of crisis is truly inspiring, and we are grateful for their service.

On the reading front, I exceeded my usual pace this month, finishing 13 books—higher than my typical monthly count. Below, I’m sharing my March reads and brief reviews for each:

1. Parent Imperfect by Paul Lamb
   A candid, humorous exploration of fatherhood and the challenges of parenting, this book offers an honest and heartfelt look at what it means to be a parent.

2. Teacher Man by Frank McCourt
   Frank McCourt's memoir of his years as a teacher is filled with wit, wisdom, and deep reflections on the impact of education. It’s both humorous and poignant, showcasing his experiences in the classroom.

3. Seeking the Lord: A 30-Day Start to Your Journey by Keon Lindsey
   A spiritual guidebook that provides a thoughtful, structured approach to starting a faith journey. It's perfect for those seeking direction or looking to strengthen their spiritual life.

4. Actionable Life Skills for Young Adults: 11 Powerful Steps to Achieve Financial Independence and Kickstart Your Road to Successful Adulthood by Maya Shine
   Practical and insightful, this book offers clear steps for young adults to gain financial independence and develop the skills they need for successful adulthood. A must-read for anyone navigating the transition to independence.

5. Storytelling with Charts by Sam Schreim
   This book takes a deep dive into the art of visual storytelling, offering valuable lessons on how to make data more engaging and impactful through thoughtful design.

6. Let Me Tell You About Jasper by Dana Perino
   A heartwarming and charming story about a dog named Jasper, offering lessons in loyalty, love, and the special bond between humans and their pets. It’s a delightful read for animal lovers.

7. Night by Elie Wiesel
   A powerful, harrowing account of Wiesel’s experience in the Holocaust, Night is a deeply moving narrative that leaves a lasting impact. It’s a book that should be read by everyone, as it’s essential to understanding history and the human condition.

8. Finley Miles Darby Meets the Bisons at Yellowstone by Michael S. Joyner, MD
   This children’s book combines adventure and education as it follows a young boy’s journey through Yellowstone National Park. It’s both fun and informative, making it a great read for young explorers.

9. What Heals the Heart by Karen A. Wyle
   A deeply emotional and thought-provoking novel about love, loss, and healing. Wyle’s writing is compelling, and the story is both tender and poignant.

10. Eighteen by Jenny Jaeckel
    A coming-of-age story that explores the complexities of growing up, facing challenges, and finding one’s identity. Jaeckel captures the confusion and beauty of being 18 with great empathy.

11. Scars That Never Heal by Latoya B. McPherson
    A raw and powerful exploration of trauma, resilience, and healing, McPherson’s writing is both heartbreaking and hopeful. It’s a book that offers a voice to those who have experienced deep pain and shows the strength it takes to overcome it.

12. Where We Belong (The Museum of Forgotten Memories) by Anstey Harris
    A beautifully written novel about identity, belonging, and the significance of memories. Harris’s storytelling is tender and emotionally rich, making this an unforgettable read.

13. The Colonel and the Bee by Patrick Canning
    A whimsical and charming novel that combines humor, mystery, and heart. It’s a delightful read that keeps you engaged from start to finish.

March was a month of reflection and appreciation, both for the stories we read and for the heroes in our community. As the days grow longer and the weather warms up, I look forward to more adventures—whether it’s in the pages of a book or out in the world.

If you wish to learn about some of my Bookish Habits you can here.

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