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Friday, January 2, 2026

JLC19 is here!


Hurrah! It's time for my dear friend, Meredith's (of Dolce Bellezza) annual Japanese Literature Challenge and this year marks the 19th year. How amazing is that?! The challenge runs from January through February - so, two whole months devoted to Japanese literature - how awesome is that? I know I'm excited to join in on the fun. The only question is...which books should I read? Hmm...

Here are a few options:





Hmm...so many wonderful choices...not sure which I'll start with. Most likely I'll reach for a Haruki Murkami book, because there's always just one more of his books that I haven't read. What about you? Are you joining in on the fun? If so, share which books you'll be reading. Or, if you have any recommendations- let me know. Cheers and Happy reading!


Thursday, January 1, 2026

Bookish Resolutions for 2026

Every year I make resolutions and every year I discard them. And yet, it's tradition, so I keep making them. 

For 2026...

Read. All. The. Time. Instead of watching TV or using social media, pick up a book and read. 

No new books except for the usual suspects - the next in a series, or a new one by a favorite author. 

Declutter books I don't like and won't reread. 

Read the books on my bookshelves. 

Book blog it up - share about all the books, post reviews, write about all things bookish.

Substack. Don't ignore it and actually use it to 'write it out.' 

Journal daily - never stop writing.

Have fun with books - fall in love with reading, again. 


Wishing you all a lovely New Year. Here's to 2026! 


Tuesday, December 23, 2025

The Photographs: Iconic Images From National Geographic, Foreword By Jimmy Chin, Text By Cathy Newman

(Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!)


Wow! What an awesome book! The Photographs: Iconic Images From National Geographic is AMAZING! It's truly a wonderful read chock full of gorgeous, jaw-dropping images taken by the most talented and gifted photographers in the world. There are over two hundred and fifty photographs to peruse and believe you me, you are going to take your time turning the pages in this marvelous tome. It is an absolute treat of a book. Talk about the perfect Christmas gift for anyone and everyone on your list. They will fall in love with this book - who wouldn't? Or they will love to have it on display on their coffee table, so that anyone who visits can have the opportunity to check it out. I mean it, this book is a must-have and must-read. 

The Photographs is a history book- showcasing the scope of National Geographic's coverage, topics, and reach all over the world. There are quotes, interviews and biographies throughout the book, which provide fascinating details and facts. And the stunning photographs themselves evoke a sense of wonder as you gaze at them one by one. This is a mesmerizing and unforgettable read. I absolutely LOVED it. I found myself dipping in and out of every day, sometimes three to five times a day. I couldn't help myself. I loved looking at these iconic images that reflect our world, our society, and our cultures.  The Photographs is such a beautiful book.  Make sure to grab a copy for yourself and a loved one. You most definitely won't want to miss out on this fantastic book!



Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!

Monday, December 22, 2025

Monday Musings...

Christmas is nearly here and I am just not feeling it. In spite of the decorations I see everywhere when I'm out running errands and all the Hallmark Christmas films being advertised, it just doesn't feel like the holidays. I guess grief is continuing to show up and it's hitting me hard right now. Oh well, I'll just grab a book and read on Thursday. Or maybe, I'll finally start rewatching Stranger Things...hmm...

Anyhow, I do wish you all a lovely holiday. Happy reading!