This is my very first book review. I decided to call my series of Book Reviews as “Sit & Chat”, because that’s actually how I feel we would be having a conversation about these books. Maybe with a coffee in hand, or tea or whatever really, and we just chat.

I have been reading frequently for years now, but lately I’ve been wanting to share the books I’ve been reading with you, my friends, so we can share our thoughts about them. And frankly, you can provide some recommendations for me too!

Disclaimer: These thoughts are my own. No sponsors, no ads.

Also- every month is a new slew of readings. I’m going to blame my randomness on the dog… just because.

I will be sharing my book reviews every month or so. Some months may have more readings and books included, some not.

You should know that this book reading started very small years ago. I would read for several days and then I would have a gap for a week or so. I would find it so frustrating to refresh my memory about where I left off, who the characters were, etc. I feel like I’m in a different stage of life now and over recent years I have reprioritized my interest in reading books. And you should also know that there are times I choose to read over doing other things, like cleaning the house.

Also I use my local library A LOT. I rarely buy books because it can get expensive, and my local library does an excellent job at stocking new books frequently. Currently I like paperback books but for a few years I was a large advocate for e-books and audiobooks. While I still like them, they don’t fit into my current lifestyle right now.

Well, let’s get started…

Sister’s First: Stories from our Wild and Wonderful Life

By Jenna Bush Hager and Barbara Pierce Bush

This book was cute- a quick, fun, interesting read. I think it’s timely that I’m sharing about this book considering the unfortunate passing of Former First Lady Barbara Bush. While I knew a little bit about the Bush family, and I think Jenna Bush thrives in her role on the TODAY Show, this was a more detailed storytelling about their childhood in Texas and DC. This book is focused on the value and role of sisters.

Lose Weight by Eating

By Audrey Johns

Now I did not pick up this book for the purpose of losing weight. However I was attracted to the purpose of this book where valuing what we eat has great influence on our health. I have learned more about Audrey and I think her ideas are fun. I just found this book to have inspiration. I like simple and easy, however I also like comfort food. So I found it to be a nice blend.

Happiness in This Life

By Pope Francis

For some reason I was thinking this was going to be a historical storytelling. I thought I would learn a little more about Pope Francis but no, this is structured into a mini speeches, homilys, and could be read like a devotional or simply as a book. Each message focuses on happiness and love for others. It’s a very quick read if you were to break it up each day.

Personally I have found Pope Francis to be intriguing. I’m fascinated by his characteristics, traits and use of words. I find him refreshing and encouraging.

Simply Clean: The Proven Method for Keeping Your Home Organized, Clean, and Beautiful in Just 10 Minutes a Day

By Becky Rapinchuk

I grabbed this book because I thought I could pick up a few strategies. While I did, what I did not realize is all the tips she provides for every aspect of your house- not only bedrooms and bathrooms, but basements, storage, garages, etc. There is not one rock that has not been overturned in this book. Everything from step-by-step plans, recipes, and strategies. So if you’re looking to garner some new ideas from a comprehensive approach, this may be the book for you.

And that wraps up my first Sit & Chat: Book Review 1. Whew! I’ve got more reviews in the hopper, so I’m excited about that. Please share with me (comment below), any comments or books you recommend to me.

In health,

Laura