First Book of 2021

My first read of the year was Karen M. McManus' novel, The Cousins. Yep, I went with a YA story and I have to say I'm glad that I did.  The book was a fun, quick read that I devoured in one sitting. There was family drama, BIG revelations, imposters, and so much more. It was definitely a great book to get caught up in - I really enjoyed getting to know this trio of cousins who didn't know one another, or the grandmother who invited them to work for her.  Yep, talk about a close family. Turns out that a long time ago, grandma cut off all contact with her children and has never spoken to them since - that includes never knowing her own grandkids. How crazy is that? Especially, since no one has a clue as to why she would do such a thing. Or do they? Let's just say that the small town she lives in has plenty of ideas as to why she would do such a thing - yep, gossip is rife and it's definitely not pretty.  Anyhow, decades have passed and she is now wanting to meet her grandkids.  So, she's invited them for the summer.  Only thing is, when the three cousins arrive, they are greeting by a grandmother who had no clue they were coming for the summer. Hmm...seems that maybe grandma still doesn't want to talk to her family after all. So, the question begs, who invited them and why? And that is all I will write about this terrific story. 

Now, I'm off to start reading for the Japanese Literature Challenge 14. Yep, it's that time again - JLC14! Meredith from Dolce Bellezza is hosting her fantastic challenge once again and I am stoked. I'm hoping that this challenge will inspire me to read a lot. Last year I read, but nowhere near the amount that I normally read and lets just say that I was not happy with my lack of reading. So, this year I am throwing myself at all of the books piled around my office and I plan on reading, reading, and reading some more. And, the JLC14 is the perfect challenge to get me started on tackling my books. Especially, since Murakami has a new book coming out in a few months - talk about perfect timing! 

And now, I'm off to read Breasts and Eggs by Mieko Kawakami.  Let me know if you have any suggestions for books to read for the JLC14. Hope you all are well. Take care and happy reading!!