River of Doubt

A work of non-fiction that reads like fiction. Teddy Roosevelt searches for adventure by taking a trip down uncharted waters of the Amazon in 1912. The crew was ill prepared for the journey. The boats they took were not suitable for the river so they had to use Indian dugout canoes, they didn't pack enough supplies, Roosevelt contracts a disease and is almost too weak to travel. The author keeps you interested throughout the whole story. A good read!

50 Ways to Paint Furniture

50 Ways to Paint Furniture: The Easy Step-by-Step way to Decorator Looks by Elise C. Kinkead

Tired of the same old look on your wooden furniture? This book is great for anybody who is willing to put the time into painting your furniture the right way (you know, start by using denatured alcohol, then sand, then primer, then paint). Each of the projects seems like they would take a couple days each with with drying time but the results are fabulous. Ideas include steel-wool stria, photo montage, torn paper, faux tiles, faux goatskin, as well as chalkboard and my favorite checkerboard tabletop.

Sundays at Tiffany's

It's been a while since I've read a James Patterson book so I thought I would give this one a chance. Co-authored with Gabrielle Charbonnet, the book is about Jane Margaux whose mother makes time for her once a week, on Sundays for a trip to Tiffany's. Jane like many children has an imaginary friend, Michael. Michael must leave Jane on her ninth birthday. Jane always remembers the time Michael spent with her even though she isn't supposed to. As an adult, Jane is just as lonely and under her mother's control as she was when she was growing up.

Overall, this is book is just a nice love story with a happy ending. No violence and no unexpected tragedy.

The Last Lecture

“We cannot change the cards we are dealt, just how we play the hand.”
--Randy Pausch

The Last Lecture has become an instant hit across America. Carnegie Mellon professor, Randy Pausch's advice on how to achieve your childhood dreams and how to live your life resonates for many people. His certain death diagnosis provided the opportunity for this man to share his optimistic viewpoint with the world. Highly recommended for everyone!