What I’m Reading Now

on August 10, 2011
in Blogger Book Club, Book Club!

Mmm.  Get in my belly, Green Monster!

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Have you had the Green Monster smoothie?  Basically, it’s a regular fruit smoothie with raw spinach added in.  I promise that you cannot taste the spinach – although, yes, it does make it a scary color!

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In the blender:

 

  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1 frozen banana
  • 1 cup packed spinach
  • 2 tablespoons peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons protein powder

 

I walked James and ate breakfast at the same time.  Multitasking, yo.  How I roll.

 

I thought I’d share a few good books that I’ve read recently.  I’m always reading and am looking for new book recommendations, if you’ve got some!

 

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins:  This book, of course, is poised to become the next Harry Potter/Twilight phenomenon, as it’s being made into a movie.  I really, really enjoyed this dystopia-themed sci-fi novel.  Yes, it’s for ‘young adults,’ but I promise – it’s packed with romantic, politics, murder, intrigue, and double-crossin’. 

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Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins:  Part II of the Hunger Games series.  Very good!  Even better than the first, I think.  I tore through this book in two days, and now I’m holding off on reading Part III (Mockingjay) because I want the series to last as long as possible!

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Origins: How the Nine Months Before Birth Shape the Rest of Our Lives by Annie Murphy Paul: A blog reader e-mailed me and told me that I had to read this book – I’m so glad!  I’m only halfway through but love it so far.  Half science writing/half memoir, Origins tells the story of how babies in utero are impacted by the choices or experiences of their mothers.   Did you know that women who consumed a daily dose of dark chocolate during their pregnancies gave birth to babies who smiled more at six months?  Fun fact!  I liked how Origins doesn’t try to make women feel guilty about their poor choices but empowered about their good choices.  An interesting read for anyone who is pregnant or thinking about getting pregnant.

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What are you reading right now?

{ 145 comments }

 

  • Katie @ cooklaughmove August 10, 2011, 9:49 am

    http://www.amazon.com/Run-Like-Girl-Strong-Women/dp/1580053459

    I’m reading “Run Like a Girl: How Strong Woman Make Happy Lives”. It was a thank you gift for coaching GOTR and I’m enjoying it. Very empowering and motivating for my own fitness habits and helping woman of all ages find theirs!

  • Nicole (Mrs. Muffins) August 10, 2011, 9:51 am

    I’m reading a few books, as usual… Gorgeously Green by Sophie Uliano, Certain Girls by Jennifer Weiner and Julie and Julia!!! I love the premise for the book, Origins. I really believe in the idea behind it. I really believe that what I ate while I was pregnant helped shape my daughters taste buds. The girl loves fruits and veggies!

  • Meagan August 10, 2011, 9:51 am

    I just finished the first seven of the Sookie Stackhouse mysteries–late to the train, I know! But they were really entertaining and fast reads. Up next is Sand County Almanac by Aldo Leopold.

    I loved the Hunger Games, as well. I’m not so much excited as interested to see what direction the movie takes. There’s no doubt they’re uber-violent books.

  • Summer August 10, 2011, 9:52 am

    I’m working on The Hunger Games and Eating Animals. I just finished The Help—so amazingly good! I couldn’t put it down. I almost picked up Little Bee at Target per your recommendation; just trying to decide if I want to get a hard copy or on Kindle.

    • CaitlinHTP August 10, 2011, 9:58 am

      Eating Animals is a great book. Loved it.

  • Blair August 10, 2011, 9:59 am

    I always use frozen spinach in my smoothies because it’s easier to keep on hand. Every green monster recipe I’ve come across says fresh with no mention of replacing it..does any one know if I’m losing nutritional value by going the frozen route?

    • CaitlinHTP August 10, 2011, 10:00 am

      Frozen is always just as nutritious (if not more so) than fresh – you’re good!

      • Lindsay August 10, 2011, 3:51 pm

        so glad to read this. i use frozen too!

  • Tiff @ Love, Sweat, and Beers August 10, 2011, 9:59 am

    I have had so many ppl tell me to read the Hunger Games. I’ll get there, but not yet. 🙂 The Origins book sounds really cool. I think it just surpassed The Hunger Games.

  • Laura August 10, 2011, 10:02 am

    I know everyone has been raving about The Hunger Game series which is why I went out and bought all 3 books! I have to say that to me, they’re only OK. Sure, I like them and want to see what’s going to happen with the characters and the games, but I think I was expecting something BRILLIANT and I got myself let down and a bit disappointed. I feel like I’ve read many more intriguing, “can’t put this down” books. Am I the ONLY one that feels this way?

    • CaitlinHTP August 10, 2011, 10:04 am

      I think part of my problem (or maybe its a good thing) is that I honestly think most books are awesome. Maybe it’s because I’ve written three and know how hard it is? LOL. I think I can recall ONE book in the last three years that I hated (and I won’t even publicly call it out!). I’m too forgiving.

    • Caitlin @ The Caitie Experiment August 10, 2011, 12:16 pm

      No, you’re not! I loved the first book but felt the same way about it — a good, suspenseful read, but with all of the hype, I was expecting something even better. Then, if anything, I thought Catching Fire was ok (had some really good parts but a lot of ultimately meaningless “set-up” narrative), and had to actually push myself to finish Mockingjay because I lost interest halfway through. Overall, I thought the series was definitely more than one would expect from a YA series, but ultimately could have been better, especially during the last half. I’m interested to see how the movies turn out — and will probably re-read the books prior to the release just to give them all another shot!

  • Army Amy* August 10, 2011, 10:03 am

    Count me among the Hunger Games fans! I loved all 3 books. Right now I’m reading Sarah’s Key. It is a heavy subject matter but extremely well written. (I generally prefer young adult literature.) If you don’t mind reading a sad story, I’d highly recommend it.*

    • CaitlinHTP August 10, 2011, 10:04 am

      I loved Sarah’s Key!

      • Natalie August 10, 2011, 5:47 pm

        almost done with Sarah’s Key too!

  • katie @ KatieDid August 10, 2011, 10:05 am

    I’m reading The Glass Castle right now, which I believe is being made into a movie. A true story, its so captivating. I’m also reading Plate to Pixel for photography inspiration and I love it as well.

    • Jennie August 10, 2011, 12:10 pm

      Glass Castle is one of my favorites! Just finished Little Bee as per Caitlin’s suggestion. Amazing!! Chris Cleave is my hero now…taking on that book must have been crazy intense! Off to get either Sarah’s Key or Hunger Games…question is…which one first?? I can’t rea more than one book at a time, is anyone else like that? I mix up the characters’ worlds and get upset about it! My husband can and it boggles my mind!!

      • Jennie August 10, 2011, 12:22 pm

        Oops “read” sorry! I also recommend reading “A Man Without A Country” by Kurt Vonnegut. An oldie but goodie…now I know I’m a huge Vonnegut fan, but this is one that I think everyone would like (even if you don’t love him).

  • cathy August 10, 2011, 10:06 am

    i’m mid-way thru “american wife” by curtis sittenfeld and am just loving it. i highly recommend it.
    i want to read “the girl with the dragon tattoo” in the near future. and i don’t really like sci-fi, but have heard so many raves about “the hunger games” that i may check it out!

    • Caitlin August 10, 2011, 10:07 am

      I LOVED American Wife!

    • Mel August 10, 2011, 2:10 pm

      Also LOVED American Wife. Probably my favorite book I’ve read this year. The character development of Alice is incredibly sensitive, touching, and beautiful to read! I think the author really made me want to root for her.

    • Mel August 10, 2011, 2:11 pm

      Also LOVED American Wife. Probably my favorite book I’ve read this year. The character development of Alice is incredibly sensitive, touching, and beautiful to read! I think the author really made me want to root for her.

  • Heather August 10, 2011, 10:07 am

    I’m just wrapping up the second book in the “Leviathan” by Scott Westerfeld. It’s another Young Adult series (like you ones you mentioned in your post) and lots of fun. I actually am listening to the audiobooks (my entertainment during long runs), but I’m sure it would be a good “actual read”, as well. 🙂

  • Angela @ Eat Spin Run Repeat August 10, 2011, 10:07 am

    Yep, got my daily green monster in me about an hour ago!! I really can’t go a day without one! I’m not reading anything right now (sad!!) but thanks for the recommendations. I can’t wait to go see The Help – that book was SO good and I can’t believe it was the author’s first!

  • Jen August 10, 2011, 10:08 am

    I’m currently reading Catching Fire! Almost done. I loved the first book, and I know I’ll be buying Mockingjay on my Kindle as soon as I finish Catching Fire. I’m not usually a fan of “young adult” books because I tend to find that they have rather childish plots, but I’m in love with these characters, and the entire concept of the trilogy. It’s news to me that a movie is being made, but I assumed it would happen eventually!

    • Jen August 10, 2011, 10:11 am

      Of course I just looked up who’s playing each character after writing that last comment…and Woody Harrelson is playing Haymitch! So perfect.

  • Tina @ Faith Fitness Fun August 10, 2011, 10:08 am

    I used to find the color of green monsters so putrid…but now after loving on them for so long, I actually find the green or brown color kind of pretty. Haha!

  • Adrienna August 10, 2011, 10:09 am

    The Hunger Games trilogy is brilliant! I’m really looking forward to the movies, actually. I’m currently reading The Kid (follow-up to Push) and An American Insurrection, which are both kind of deep and upsetting. I think I’ll start Bossypants to give me a humor break!

    But I read The Book Thief recently, and if you haven’t read that, you HAVE to! It’s so good and should be part of everyone’s “must read” list.

  • Paige @ Running Around Normal August 10, 2011, 10:10 am

    I’m reading Pictures Of You…I just finished Beach Road by James Patterson last night and I just started Pictures of You last night, too. I like you, am always reading something. I read double what I used to now that I have my Kindle!

  • Em August 10, 2011, 10:11 am

    I LOVED Freedom (http://amzn.to/a52Av6) – so well written and an incredible marriage story. An Object of Beauty by Steve Martin (http://amzn.to/q6xQ1V) – I love the story line in this – it’s a lot of fun if you have any interest in art (or just love a good read, really). I just started reading My Life in France (http://amzn.to/fUBAd) – so far it is good! I love Julie & Julia. And, I really want to read Tina Fey’s Bossy Pants next.

    I love when bloggers share their (book) reading lists!
    XO Em

  • Andrea @ Run, Eat, Date, Sleep August 10, 2011, 10:12 am

    I’m also reading The Hunger Games. It took me a while to see the intrigue of it, but now that I’m halfway through, I can’t put it down!

    Next on my list is The Help!

    • Casey August 10, 2011, 7:08 pm

      I just had book reading deja vu! I read all three of the Hunger Game books, and then read The Help right afterwards!

      Like many other commenters, I was absolutely obsessed with the Hunger Games trilogy. I’m actually glad that I’m finished them, so now I can move on with my life! Haha…it was a little outta control!

      I’m getting ready to start the Glass Castle.

  • KitKat @ Pursuit of Happiness August 10, 2011, 10:13 am

    I was SO addicted when reading the Hunger Games trilogy!

    I just read Bossypants by Tina Fey (hilarious!), The Secret Daugher by Shilpi Somaya Gowda(great read intertwined with fascination Indian culture) and Room by Emma Donoghue(slightly disturbing yet I couldn’t put it down). I’d recommend all 3!

  • KitKat @ Pursuit of Happiness August 10, 2011, 10:14 am

    whoops fascinating, not fascination!

  • Rachel August 10, 2011, 10:16 am

    I LOVED the Hunger Games! I’m itching to read Catching Fire, but I really need to finish the other books on my kindle first. Right now I’m reading The Help, which I’m really enjoying, and The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro, who is one of my favorite authors.

  • Sam August 10, 2011, 10:16 am

    I loooved the hunger games trilogy so much. I was so happy that the third book was already out by the time i read them! I would have hated waiting. I’m not planning on getting pregnant for quite some time but that origins book looks quite interesting actually. And right now I just finished reading Secret Daughter by Shilpi Somaya Gowda. I just noticed the comment right above me did as well! It was a great book with so much indian culture an a really touching story. I almost cried at the end but i was on a crowded bus so i held it in 😉

  • Debbie August 10, 2011, 10:16 am

    I am currently listening to The Help (hurray for audible.com!). It has three different women reading the parts and it is wonderful to listen to. I’m also reading the Kindle version of Vegan for Life. It has so much useful information! And I also keep a bedside book, right now an old paperback by T. Jefferson Parker, to read before bed. I’m a multi-tasker 🙂

    • Wendy August 10, 2011, 1:44 pm

      I also listened to The Help this summer, and if I’m not mistaken, I think the three parts are read by the actresses who play those women in the movie!

      • Baking N Books August 10, 2011, 2:27 pm

        I’m reading The Help now too!! I love it. I’ll probably wait to see the movie on DVD though..it’s like 2 1/2 hours I think. I hear the movie is good and funny – but it kind of makes me think deep down it’s “not” a funny issue. But y’know, that’s getting political 😉

        I just finished “The Lost Girls” too and highly recommend it! I think you would like it Caitlin!! (and it’s by 3 editors/freelancers’).

      • Debbie August 10, 2011, 3:51 pm

        Octavia Spencer, who plays Minnie in the movie, is one of the narrators. The other actresses are not reading the parts in the book.

  • Maryea @ Happy Healthy Mama August 10, 2011, 10:19 am

    I loved The Hunger Games series. And, umm I’m off to buy some dark chocolate now. I’m half way through my pregnancy do you think it will still work? I want a smiley baby! 😉

  • Britney August 10, 2011, 10:19 am

    I’m currently reading This Won’t Hurt a Bit (and other white lies) by Michelle Au. It almost has me wanting to go to medical school – but I keep reminding myself that I can’t even watch medical procedures on TV and that I nearly passed out during first aid training (a requirement for my current job).

  • Ann @ Day by Day August 10, 2011, 10:19 am

    I just finished The Hunger Games yesterday! You made me so excited to find the second one now… good to know they keep getting better, because I loved the first! I have a flight this afternoon and I’m almost 100% sure it’ll be an easy book to find in the airport! I LOVE downtime in airports when I can read a good book!

  • Jenn August 10, 2011, 10:19 am

    Reading One thing led to another by Katy Regan – not loving it though!

  • Meredith August 10, 2011, 10:24 am

    I’m working on The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo – I LOVE it! Can’t wait to read the other two.

  • thePoeLog August 10, 2011, 10:26 am

    You got me hooked on green monsters. Now I drink them every morning. One serving of fruit and vegetables – done!

    I’m actually reading One Day (before the annoying Ann Hathaway movie comes out). It’s really good and a brilliant idea — following two people on one specific day each year over a 20-something year friendship. It makes a perfect metro read since it stops and starts up again with each chapter, so you’re not really losing your place, just picking up at a new year.

  • Gina @ Running to the Kitchen August 10, 2011, 10:27 am

    I’m reading Drowning Ruth but, I just picked up Hunger Games from Sam’s Club on Sunday. Can’t wait to start it next week on the beach!

  • Liz August 10, 2011, 10:34 am

    I know what you mean about stretching that series out! When I finished my husband read them and I was jealous of him the whole time.

  • caitlin August 10, 2011, 10:34 am

    Donald Miller’s A Million Miles in a Thousand Years. This is by far the best book I have ever read. It changed my life for the better.

  • Lisa August 10, 2011, 10:34 am

    Do you read Motherlode on the NYT? They just started a monthly book club bit, and Origins was this month’s selection. There are a bunch of good posts about different parts of the book and an interview with the author. It is definitely on my list! I was in the mood for a classic and decided to read Jane Eyre, so far so good!

    • Caitlin August 10, 2011, 10:48 am

      No I haven’t read Motherlode yet! Off to check it out.

  • Heather August 10, 2011, 10:35 am

    I have read all three hunger games books and not to bust your bubble but I hated the 3rd book. 🙁 good luck with it! I am reading kara gouchers book right now!

  • Kara August 10, 2011, 10:36 am

    First, if you love the Hunger Games, you MUST watch this hilarious video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoHfCW-O2yA. Beware: the song will be stuck in your head all day! Especially “I’ll bake…you pieeees!”

    Second, I am in between books right now but am planning to start Divergent by Veronica Roth. It’s YA and takes place in a dystopian future (like Hunger Games), and the premise looks very interesting: http://shelf-life.ew.com/2011/05/02/veronica-roths-divergent-gets-a-book-trailer-exclusive-video/

    Finally, my favorite book of the summer so far has been The Paris Wife by Paula McLain. It’s the story of Ernest Hemingway’s first wife and their boozy time in 1920s Paris. So elegant and dreamy! I want to be a flapper when I grow up.

  • Kelley @ Just Call Me Jack August 10, 2011, 10:37 am

    If you like The Hunger Games I recommend Veronica Roth’s Divergent. It is also ‘young adult’ but I couldn’t put it down. So good!

  • Emily August 10, 2011, 10:37 am

    Origins sounds so interesting!! I love books that mix science and life 🙂 I am reading The Help and loving it, can’t wait to finish and go see the movie!

  • kristin August 10, 2011, 10:41 am

    I just had a smoothie with frozen strawberries…I’m pregnant and I cant even think of eating veggies right now 🙁 I’m an ex veggie lover, this morning sickness has de-railed my healthy eating big time! I had a bad experience with some kale and quinoa salad and I can’t think about eating greens right now. Hopefully this eases up in the next few weeks…I don’t even want to read that pregnancy book because I’ll feel bad for poisoning my baby with my recent grilled cheese sandwich diet.

    I read the book “Heart of the matter” by Emily Griffin recently and I REALLY enjoyed it.

    • Jo August 10, 2011, 10:54 am

      Heart of the Matter was a surprising read for me. I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did.

      • kristin August 10, 2011, 11:58 am

        me too! I originally got it because I wanted something kind of fun and silly but I couldn’t put it down.

  • Rachel W August 10, 2011, 10:44 am

    I read The Hunger Games last summer and was OBSESSED! Totally sucked me in! And did you know they’ve been filming a lot of the movie here in Charlotte? Makes me even more excited for the movie.

    And as a few others have recommended, Divergent by Veronica Roth is a FABULOUS read. I just finished it and it really lived up to my love of Hunger Games. Similar in a lot of ways, but very different. I couldn’t put it down!

    Excited to meet you at book club on Thursday 🙂

  • Janie August 10, 2011, 10:46 am

    Hunger Games was amazing. I can’t wait for the movie!! I read Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follet — it’s 900 pages, but it weaves history and romance, mystery, politics, etc. It’s pretty awesome. Also reading the Mercy Falls Wolves Series which is really good, too. It’s a three-book series, I think YA 🙂 xoxo

  • Kendall (On An Inhale) August 10, 2011, 10:52 am

    I’m on book three. I don’t know how are you holding out?! It’s so addicting. I didn’t want to read them but my friends kept telling me how great they are. I’m not a harry potter or twilight fan but i love these!

  • Jo August 10, 2011, 10:52 am

    The Hunger Games series was unbelievable. I have no interest in the movies. The books were incredible.

    The Lost Girls was also a fantastic read.

    Room was incredible and challenges The Lost Girls for the best book I’ve read all summer.

    I’m reading middle-grade school books now. Funny stuff.

  • Lara August 10, 2011, 10:53 am

    I read all three Hunger Games books in like a week, they were fantastic! I just started Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, it was slow to get into but picked up pretty quickly.

  • Nicole August 10, 2011, 10:54 am

    I really liked the Hunger Game series, too!

    Right now I’m tearing thru the Game of Thrones series. I’m on book 3 right now with books 4 and 5 waiting for me at the library- yikes! They’re pretty lengthy, with the paperback copy I’ve got right now clocking in at around 1000 pages.

  • Liz August 10, 2011, 11:00 am

    I’m reading the latest Jennifer Weiner – Then Came You. I’m really enjoying it, probably her best that I’ve read so far.

  • Sarah for Real August 10, 2011, 11:08 am

    I’m reading the first of the Game of Thrones books. Literally just started last night and the first chapter had me too scared to sleep. The whole “wall” situation and impending winter really creeps me out on a deep level.

  • Johanna August 10, 2011, 11:08 am

    The Art of Racing in the Rain. I sobbed out loud a few times while reading, but it is a must read for dog lovers.

  • Ash @ Good Taste Healthy Me August 10, 2011, 11:48 am

    I loved the Hunger Games. I tore through the entire series in a week. Ridiculous! Right now I’m reading Little Bee, which is excellent!

  • Samantha @ Mama Notes August 10, 2011, 11:53 am

    I think it’s crazy how The Hunger Games is suppose to be for young adults. I wonder what age that classifies as… I’m not sure I would want my middle school-er reading it. I guess this is our day and age though. My husband is a teacher and he said that some of his students in 5th and 6th grade read it. I think that’s how he heard about it, actually! Crazy, huh?

    • Casey August 10, 2011, 7:12 pm

      Agreed…I saw that there were actual school lesson plans for The Hunger Games. It’s hard to believe that schools would actually use this book in the classroom.

    • Casey August 10, 2011, 7:12 pm

      Agreed…I saw that there were actual school lesson plans for The Hunger Games. It’s hard to believe that schools would actually use this book in the classroom.

  • Beth (Well I'll Be) August 10, 2011, 11:54 am

    I just started the Hunger Games! I just finished The Secret Life of Bees and couldn’t put it down. I know it’s older, but if you liked The Help you’ll like this!

  • Ann August 10, 2011, 11:57 am

    I’ve heard so many good things about The Hunger Game series- I’m def going to have to try them out.
    Kinda random, but right now I’m reading War and Peace! I realized there are SO many classics that I haven’t read and I feel like I should see why some of them are…classic! I have The Help waiting on standby- love me some good books 🙂

  • Jennifer August 10, 2011, 12:02 pm

    You are smart to prep before pregnancy, which I think more and more women are doing these days. My OB actually considers pregnancy to be an 18 month process. He believes the 9 months prior to getting pregnant are *almost* as important as the 9 months you actually are pregnant.

  • Marci August 10, 2011, 12:07 pm

    Try eating dark chocolate when chocolate and sweets actually sound yuck! Can’t believe I’ve been turned off sweets temporarily. I agree with #52 that pregnancy is more than a 9 month process. I’ve heard of the “4th trimester” which is the first three months of the baby’s life, and I started changing my habits about four months before we actually got pregnant.
    I’m reading Jennifer Weiner’s newest book, Then Came You, and it’s great!

    • Jennie August 10, 2011, 12:27 pm

      Very true about the “fourth trimester” … I am living it now! I recommend reading “The Happiest Baby on the Block.” It really helps with the first three months of the baby’s life and understanding the fourth trimester. I have a happy, smiling baby (most of the time) and I really feel it’s because of the work we do…things we learned from that book!

  • LindseyAnn August 10, 2011, 12:10 pm

    I just bought both The Hunger Games and The Help. (I really would like to see the movie, but as I do with all movies based on books, I have to read the book first.) I’m looking forward to starting both of them!

    Also, on a darker note, I just read Wasted by Mayra Hornbacher. It’s a memoir of life with an eating disorder and, wow. Very well written, completely no holds barred, and while it’s fantastic I can see how it would be EXTREMELY triggering to someone in ED recovery.

    • Baking N Books August 10, 2011, 2:30 pm

      Agreed. I hated “Wasted” for that reason…I actually take issue with a lot of Memoirs by anorexics – I know it’s controversial – but I just really think they’re way too triggering and I don’t think it benefits anyone too know how sick someone was and their exact habits.

      What would help is to focus on how to get out it and move on and LIVE life. Because that’s the problem with ED’s – they keep you in your head and isolate you. The more you reflect and brood over it, the longer you stay in the cycle.

      You will love The Help!! I’m reading it now 🙂

  • Sara @ OurDogBuffy August 10, 2011, 12:12 pm

    I hope I remember that book when I’m expecting! How cool!

    • Sara @ OurDogBuffy August 10, 2011, 12:12 pm

      Oh and I am reading Mama Pea’s cookbook + The Pioneer Woman’s love story (I’ve had it for a long time and just haven’t finished it. I’m a slow reader!)

  • Hillary August 10, 2011, 12:12 pm

    LOVED the Hunger Games series! I’m currently reading Unbroken by the same author who wrote Seabiscuit. It took me a while to get into, but I’m really enjoying it now.

  • Cyndi August 10, 2011, 12:13 pm

    Water for Elephants – fast, fun, light and beautiful.

  • Michelle August 10, 2011, 12:14 pm

    Since I MIGHT be reading this surreptitiously at work I apologize if these are repeat suggestions – gotta scan comments and type quick! 🙂

    Little Brother (its like 1984 for generation tech and I think should be a must read).

    The only life that mattered (hello thrilling pirate adventure based on true history)

    Enchantment by Orson Scott Card (my favorite book ever)

    Things Fall Apart (set in a tribe in Africa and its a tale of what happens when missionaries leave and the tribe starts to fall apart)

    The Help (yup, the one thats being made in to a movie. Very good read)

    (I’ve got about 100 other favorite must read books in case you run out!) 🙂

  • Ellen August 10, 2011, 12:27 pm

    Room by Emma Donohue–so good! Stick with it through the first 50 pages or so…

  • Liz August 10, 2011, 12:28 pm

    I’ reading Tomatoland by Barry Estabrook on the tomato growing industry in Florida. If you ever want to buy a grocery store tomato with a clear conscience, I don’t recommend it.

    But if you’re interested in what the environment and farmworkers endure for that tomato to get there, it’s definitely worth a read.

  • Amber K August 10, 2011, 12:30 pm

    I’m actually reading two books right now a thriller by James Patterson and the non-fiction The Steal which is about the cultural history of shoplifting. Quite interesting!

    I liked the Hunger Games series, but was really disappointed in the ending of the third book. It was waaaay rushed and just felt out of place. But hopefully they can clean it up in the movie version.

    Oh and green smoothies ROCK! I always add cocoa powder to mine which just makes the color that much worse, but super tasty!

  • Stacy August 10, 2011, 12:33 pm

    I just finished Dreams of Joy by Lisa See. It’s the follow-up to Shanghai Girls and I would recommend both. I started Noah’s Wife last night, but am not far enough into it to give a recommendation yet. Hunger Games are next on my list. Also, I’d recommend The Paris Wife. It’s written from the perspective of Hemingway’s first wife, as an author I would think you’d enjoy the story.

  • Kathryn (Flopoodle) August 10, 2011, 12:35 pm

    Mmmm I had a smoothie for breakfast too! Green monsters are the only way I can tolerate spinach 😀

  • Stefanie @ Living HI August 10, 2011, 12:39 pm

    I am reading The Moor’s Last Sigh, by Salman Rushdie. It is a multi-generational tale about a family of spice traders during the 1900’s. Rushdie does an excellent job mixing interesting personal sagas within an important social and political context (this book it is leading up to and during the Independence and partition of India and Pakistan. I would recommend any of his books if you have an interest in travel, history, and/or India.

  • Khushboo August 10, 2011, 12:41 pm

    In that case, my kid-to-be is ging to be full of smiles 🙂

  • Kelly August 10, 2011, 12:44 pm

    It’s been SO LONG since I had the time to read a real book! I’ve been up to my ears in journal articles for the past two years! I’d like to think I’ll have time to read books now, but I’ll probably be too busy making teaching plans and grading! I need to invest in some books on tape to listen to in the car or out running. 🙂

  • Heather @ Side of Sneakers August 10, 2011, 12:50 pm

    Crap! I wish I liked chocolate- I want a happy baby!

  • Taylor @ Crumbs Don't Count August 10, 2011, 12:51 pm

    I’m reading the Help right now. I love, love, loved the first two Hunger Games book. I have Mockingjay on my library book list…but so do about 30 other people! I can’t wait to read it. I may end up buying it on my Kindle.

  • Kim L. August 10, 2011, 12:52 pm

    Loved the first 2 of the Hunger Games series- waiting to borrow book #3 from my son’s friend. Currently reading The Borrower by Rebecca Makkai- it has kept my attention and I am eager to see how it ends. Some of my favorites this year are Bossypants, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein, The Blessings of the Animals by Katrina Kittle, Still Alice by Lisa Genova (and her 2nd book Left Neglected), Room by Emma Donoghue, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo series and This is Where I Leave You by Jonathon Tropper… I love reading all the other book suggestions posted here!! I am adding a bunch to my list!

  • Lisa August 10, 2011, 1:05 pm

    I was skeptical about reading The Hunger Games because I’m not a fan of the young teen books–hated Twilight. Not a Harry Potter fan. But I started reading The Hunger Games and LOVED it. I devoured each book in a week’s time and cannot wait for the movies!

  • Kristen @ The Concrete Runner August 10, 2011, 1:38 pm

    Oh man, I can’t believe I haven’t heard of Origins until now! I will definitely be reading that as soon as I finish my Natural Childbirth book! Ha!

  • Cindi August 10, 2011, 1:43 pm

    I just started the Hunger Games too. Glad to hear they are great – I’m not really the sci-fi kinda gal. I finished The Help and loved it. So bummed I’m missing all the fun for book club this week. Hopefully I’ll get to catch the movie soon!

  • Rachel August 10, 2011, 1:46 pm

    The fiance and I are listening to Stephen King’s the Dark Tower Series on audiobook when we take long car rides anywhere. It is SO good. It is his magnum opus/life’s work of writing, but it isn’t a scary story like alot of this other works. His writing is so incredibly good. I highly HIGHLY recommend it!

  • Wendy August 10, 2011, 1:50 pm

    I love it when bloggers do book posts – so many good book suggestions! My favorites this summer have been The Help and the Hunger Games trilogy. I also enjoyed the first 2 books of the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo series, and I’m on the waiting list for the third one.

    Origins looks interesting, even though I’m 99% sure I’m done having kids. And that tidbit about chocolate must explain why I have happy kids. 🙂

  • Molly @ the F-spot August 10, 2011, 1:51 pm

    I agree with the others who mentioned “Room.” It is a fantastic book that still makes me think long and hard (and I read it last year). My book club is reading “The Solitude of Prime Numbers” right now and it is fantastic. I can’t wait to discuss it with the group next week!

    • Caitlin August 10, 2011, 2:04 pm

      I loved Room. It was amazing!

  • Amy August 10, 2011, 1:52 pm

    Just finished Mistaken Identity, and we are reading The Help in September for our book club. My 16-year-old daughter LOVED the Hunger Games series — might have to borrow them!

  • Heather @ Dietitian on the Run August 10, 2011, 1:53 pm

    I had noo idea The Hunger Games was Sci-Fi-ish. Ha, just assumed it had to do with Food ‘policits’/theory/something. {Insert: shouldn’t judge a book by its cover….ehh}

    I just finished up Dean Karnazzes’ new book, RUN! and obviously it was amazing. Because Dean kicks ass. Now I’m FINALLY reading The Help – no idea what took me so long, I’m totally hooked!

  • Aja August 10, 2011, 2:05 pm

    My mom just read the Hunger Games and is reading the second book now. I’m reading Native Son for my AP Lit class. I’ve yet to get into it.

  • Mel August 10, 2011, 2:07 pm

    A few things:

    1. I love introducing Green Monsters to my friends and family, not sure what’s more fun their hesitation or the fact that they actually enjoy them. I made one for my best friend last semester and she ended up giving a “how to” speech about making Green Monsters for her speech class!
    2. I LOVED “The Hunger Games,” per recommendation of my little sister. I haven’t read Catching Fire yet because I’m #76 on the waiting list at the library. I just picked up the book “Cutting for Stone” though at the library!

  • diana@mymarblerye August 10, 2011, 2:09 pm

    i just wrote a post on what I’m reading. What I read was portia de rossi’s memoir…about her eating disorder. So good. I was crying. Now I’m reading One day…there’s a movie with Anne Hathaway based on it.

  • Rosa - Fitness, Food, Fulfilled August 10, 2011, 2:24 pm

    I’m reading Solomon’s Oak right now. It’s about a widow a teen foster girl that come together just as both are trying to heal. It’s so good.
    Next up is The Help then the Hunger Games. I wish I had more time to read!

  • Kimberly August 10, 2011, 2:30 pm

    I recommend in defense of food – Michael Pollan. His “food rules” are fantastic. Also, my favorite work of fiction The time Traveler’s wife by Audrey Niffenegger. I’m re-reading it now. I’m also reading Animal, vegetable, miracle by Barbara Kingsolver. It’s quite good so far. She and her family do a year long project only eating foods that are from their community and their own farm. I look forward to checking out Hunger games. Thanks for the reference!

  • mary (sisters running the kitchen) August 10, 2011, 2:49 pm

    i LOVED the hunger games. I’ve only read the first book in the series but it was a PAGE TURNER. I could not put it down. It was definitely one of the best books i read in a long time. I really need to buy the second and third book. I lent the first book to the doorlady in my apartment complex and she read it in a day…she loved it too! such a great read.

  • Anonymous August 10, 2011, 3:00 pm

    http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/44065817/ns/health-fitness/t/when-extreme-exercise-turns-deadly#.TkLUh2FrE-0

    wondering your thoughts on this and if you were aware of the risks of the triatholons prior to competing

  • Kelly August 10, 2011, 3:27 pm

    I did a post on this yesterday…I am reading The Happiness Project b Gretchen Rubin. It is really good and thought provoking!

  • Amber from Girl with the Red Hair August 10, 2011, 3:56 pm

    I’m in the middle of “ROOM” – WOW, what a great book and so well-written considering it’s from the perspective of a 5-year-old!

    That Origins book sounds fascinating, one day (WAY down the road) when we are getting ready to make babies I’ll have to pick it up!

    • Caitlin August 10, 2011, 4:05 pm

      YES! I loved Room.

  • Amber from Girl with the Red Hair August 10, 2011, 3:58 pm

    I am reading ROOM right now – WOW, what a great book! Especially considering it’s written from the perspective of a 5-year-old. Have you read it Caitlin? I think you’d like it.

    That Origins book sounds fascinating. I will have to pick it up one day, wayyy down the road, when we’re ready to start making babies 😉

  • Angela @ MyPinkyToes August 10, 2011, 4:36 pm

    I just finished reading The Girls From Ames by Jeffrey Zaslow…it’s a great book to read with your girlfriends! I’m thinking of what I should read next…can’t decide!!!

  • Crystal August 10, 2011, 4:37 pm

    You should join Goodreads! It is a website where you can organize the books you have read, are reading, and want to read in the future. Then you can rate these books and share your ‘bookshelves’ with friends. Check it out!

  • Brooke @ Tales of a Bride-To-Be August 10, 2011, 4:50 pm

    Reading The Help and The China Study. So far love both, very good reads!

  • allpointswhole August 10, 2011, 4:57 pm

    Holy deliciousness is right! I cant wait to make that hummus! I am reading “All thst is bitter and sweet” by Ashley Judd and so much of my life relates to hers…not only our crazy childhoods but her fierce desire to advocate for the oppressed and those in third world countries….Its soooo good.

  • CJ @ http://healthy-happy-whole.com/ August 10, 2011, 5:02 pm

    Ohhh I was going to download those! Everyone keeps talking about that series! Good to know it has a positive review! I finished the kitchen house a few weeks ago and liked it, but was totally surprised by the ending! I loved the help and am so excited to see the movie!!

  • Ashley August 10, 2011, 5:20 pm

    Just finished “Iron House” by John Hart. I couldn’t put the book down – it was an awesome mystery/drama/crime/love story…little bit of everything.

  • sara @ the foodie diaries August 10, 2011, 5:29 pm

    I’ve heard so many good things about The Hunger Games, I definitely have to go pick up a copy! I love anything by James Patterson or Dan Brown, you can’t go wrong with any of their books!

  • Shari August 10, 2011, 5:55 pm

    I just finished Tess Stimson’s WHO LOVES YOU BEST. Such an interesting topic! My to-read list is getting longer and longer as the summer goes on. There are so many great books out there!!

  • Kellie August 10, 2011, 6:30 pm

    Loving “The Hunger Games” trilogy. I must say, I loved the first and second book, but the third is bit more difficult to get into. Have you read “The Help”. So good! I also recommend “Sarah’s Key” Enjoy!!

  • Amanda August 10, 2011, 6:31 pm

    I read the Hunger Games series a couple of months ago. I read it everywhere…waiting rooms (I go to the drs about twice a week), at work (my pts were interruptions for sure!), and all the time at home! I loved them!!!
    Right now I’m reading The Better Bladder Book, a holistic approach to interstitial cystitis, its very interesting! My PT wants to borrow it when I’m finished with it. I’m also reading A Midwifes Confession on my Kindle. Its good but I keep getting distracted by the bladder book.

  • Mary Nell August 10, 2011, 6:31 pm

    I love a lot of the books mentioned, and wanted to recommend The Host by Stephanie Myers. Not at all like Twilight–I was completely engrossed and read it in about 3 days (it is a long book)!

  • Polly August 10, 2011, 6:38 pm

    Caitlin, if you love The Hunger Games trilogy, you HAVE to read Delirium by Lauren Oliver. It’s set in a similar future America where scientists have found a cure for love (which they feel is the root of all evil in the world). It’s also YA but as a 28 year old fully grown woman, I loved it!

    Can’t wait for The Hunger Games movie!!

  • Katie @ Peace Love and Oats August 10, 2011, 6:47 pm

    The Hunger Games is next up on my book club’s reading list! I’m glad to hear you like it, I can’t wait to get started! I actually just finished The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein, which was a quick and easy read and I really enjoyed it because the story is told from the point of view of a dog!

  • Katherina @ Zephyr Runs August 10, 2011, 7:05 pm

    I just added Origins to my cart in Amazon, sounds like such a great read!! Baby Catcher is another wonderful book told from the perspective of a midwife back in the… 70s? I think? It’s great!!

  • Brenda@ Baby on the Way August 10, 2011, 7:11 pm

    I’m going to request Origins from the library- even though I’ve only got 2 months of ‘baking’ left!

  • Allison August 10, 2011, 7:22 pm

    Awesome!! I’m reading the Hunger Games trilogy right now too!

  • Christine @ BookishlyB August 10, 2011, 7:34 pm

    I read Origins and was actually a little disappointed. It wasn’t bad, but I guess I had high expectations. There was a lot of “maybes” and I didn’t think I really learned anything I hadn’t heard before (I’m not pregnant by the way). I do agree with you about the fact that it’s not a guilt trip book!

  • Haley August 10, 2011, 8:11 pm

    Caitlin, you might be interested in this article:
    http://www.npr.org/2011/08/08/139033757/babys-palate-and-food-memories-shaped-before-birth

  • Michelle@ Crazy*Running*Legs August 10, 2011, 8:50 pm

    That Origins book sounds really interesting!

    I’m currently reading Cinderella Ate My Daughter. I’m not sure how I feel about it.

    I also just finished the first book in the Lying Game series. Can’t believe I admitted that one online 🙂

  • Tammy @ Palm Trees and Manatees August 10, 2011, 9:08 pm

    Thanks for the info about Origins! I am 16.5 weeks pregnant and a very thankful and excited mom-to-be . . . very eager to check this out.

  • Chelsea @ One Healthy Munchkin August 10, 2011, 10:28 pm

    I keep on hearing about The Hunger Games on blogs – at first I actually thought it was a non-fiction book about eating and hunger haha! It sounds good though. I miss having new Harry Potter books in my life, so maybe this series will be a good replacement.

    Right now I’m reading Sarah’s Key – it’s actually really affected me emotionally. I didn’t expect it to be so sad!

  • Ali @ Ali Runs August 11, 2011, 8:28 am

    I love love loved Hunger Games series. The third book was my least favorite because I felt the end was really rushed. I just finished The Violets of March which was a recommendation from Jenna (EatLiveRun) and it was excellent. I couldn’t put it down, it was kind of a chick book but with mystery, family secrets, and a great plot! 🙂 Happy reading!

  • Julie August 11, 2011, 9:26 am

    Currently reading Catching Fire here, having just finished Hunger Games. Recently read Bossypants, This Won’t Hurt a Bit, Stiltsville (random fiction pick up that ended up being very good), One Perfect Day – The Selling of the American Wedding, The Healing of America, and The Help. All decent reads! I am generally not too into fiction but usually end up reading something if its popular (Help, Hunger Games).

  • Alaina August 11, 2011, 11:01 am

    Right now I’m reading “A Thousand Sisters”. It’s a tough read about the women in the Congo, where they say it’s the worst place to be a women. The author ran 30 miles to raise money for these women and she eventually visited the Congo and the women that were being sponsored. Great book!

  • Dyanna August 11, 2011, 11:27 am

    GREEN MONSTER SMOOTHIES YUMMM Mine have banana, peanut butter, chocolate light silk milk and huge amounts of spinach, I got some flax seed meal, but have been to afraid to add it yet, afraid it will cause tummy problems.

    Reading Beastly right now–it is MUCH better than the movie, took down alot of titles, amazon kindle store, here I come!!

  • Jolene (www.everydayfoodie.ca) August 16, 2011, 12:53 pm

    I want to read that book about pregnancy. I love reading things like that, even though I am not pregnant yet, and never have been! I also love to buy baby stuff – hehehe!

  • Audrey August 16, 2011, 8:47 pm

    I just finished The Help on Friday, and the week before I read The Shallow by Carr. I have to say The Shallows is possibly one of the best books I have ever read, so I highly recommend it to anyone and everyone who is interested on the human mind

    • CaitlinHTP August 17, 2011, 8:35 am

      Oh thanks for this recommendation!

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