The best historical fiction takes you back in time to learn about locations, events, and ways of life you may not know about. The stories also introduce you to memorable characters who represent both the good and the bad sides of society during a given time period. Continue reading
There’s a good reason World War II fiction is such a popular book genre. The war was a classic case of good versus evil, with both heroic and haunting moments to read and write about. Continue reading
Scotland is a fantastic setting for fiction books. From cities like Edinburgh to craggy Highlands and lochs populated by mythical monsters, authors have a lot to work with when their novels take place in Scotland. Continue reading
In the right author’s hands, true stories can be just as engrossing as fiction. Plus, the best nonfiction books teach you about a number of topics, including history, famous and non famous people, and both well-known and obscure events and locations. Continue reading
Germany makes a rich setting for both fiction and nonfiction. Many classic spy and war novels are set in Germany, and although this list is heavy with both genres, I also tried to include some other options. Continue reading
Irish Americans have richly contributed to the world of literature, counting among their ranks several national poet laureates and Pulitzer Prize winners. Continue reading
Novels set during the American Civil War can be educational as well haunting and tragic. It’s a compelling mix of qualities that, in the right authors’ hands, can produce satisfying stories that are hard forget. Continue reading
There’s no doubt William Shakespeare’s plays have staying power. More than 400 years after his death, young people still study his work in school. I was introduced to the Bard in high school when I read Othello for one of my English classes and I was pleased to see my daughters study Hamlet their Junior year. Continue reading
Whether you’re on vacation, self-isolating, or just not feeling very social, it’s good to have a list of engrossing book series to binge read. If you’re you’re like me, sometimes the books on your “to be read” list just don’t appeal to whatever you’re in the mood for. A good, go-to book series can be just the thing to cure this ailment – the characters are like old friends and you trust the author to deliver a good story. Continue reading
Book Thoughts from Bed 