Audio Book Review: Child 44 by Tom Rob Smith, Narrated by Dennis Boutsikaris

In Stalin’s Russia, thoroughly investigating a murder could be considered its own subversive crime, especially if the outcome tarnishes the State’s narrative of being a communist Utopia where citizens are so content that they never turn to crime. Against this backdrop, Leo Demidov, a member of the much-feared State Security Force (MGB), risks everything to track down a serial killer who is viciously preying on children. Continue reading

Audio Book Review: Holidays on Ice by David Sedaris, Narrated by David Sedaris

Holidays on Ice is a collection of stories and musings by humorist David Sedaris, who ponders some of the absurdities of modern-day Christmas, Halloween, and Easter celebrations. I liked it overall for the laugh out loud moments, but sometimes it felt like the stories were missing a main point or punchline. Or maybe I am too obtuse to understand the messages. Continue reading

Audio Book Review: The Life Impossible by Matt Haig, Narrated by Joanna Lumley

Matt Haig has a knack for writing supernatural stories with depth and meaning that explore what it means to be human. The Life Impossible fits this description. The novel is philosophical in a fun and imaginative way, with a bit of a mystery woven into the plot. Add to that superb reading by Joanna Lumley, and you get a recipe for a very enjoyable story. Continue reading

2025 Thoughtful Reading Challenge

2025 Thoughtful Reading Challenge pin

I’m excited to present the 2025 Thoughtful Reading Challenge, and doubly happy that I’m still around to host it!

Each year, Book Thoughts From Bed hosts a low pressure book challenge designed to introduce you (and me!) to different genres, authors, settings, etc. Taking the challenge is a great way to expand the types of books you read and help you fulfill your reading goals for the year. Continue reading