Back to my normal reading numbers! I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t disappointed by the low number of books I read this month, but five books is such a realistic number to read (for me). I also almost finished one book (which will be in my September wrap up) and got half-way through a 900-page book, so I’m trying not to get too down on myself. Real talk — It can be hard being a blogger/bookstagramer who sees people reading 30 books a month when I can, usually, barely get through five. When I’m feeling down about my numbers, I try to remind myself that five is better than zero, and reading is for FUN. Anyways, let’s get into the books I read in August.
one | Dare to Lead by Brené Brown — Audiobook
I listened to the audiobook version of this book, and I plan to pick it up in physical form because I liked it that much. Brené is a fantastic orator, so I loved hearing her read to me — though it really just felt like a conversation. She provides great tips and advice on how to be a vulnerable, yet strong leader and how to practice what you preach. 5/5 stars
two | The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead
Boy, does this book use the last ten pages to absolutely wreck you! The Nickel Boys is a historical fiction novel about a reform school for boys under the age of 18. Elwood had a bright future ahead of him until he accepts a ride from the wrong person at the wrong time. He’s taken to Nickel to serve out his sentence, and it’s just as cruel as one could imagine. It’s a story of what happens when people turn a blind eye to what is right in front of them, what can happen when you never give up hope, and what friendship can really mean to a person. 5/5 stars
three | The Vanishing Stair by Maureen Johnson — E-Book
In Johnson’s sequel to Truly Devious, readers find Stevie back at home after her parents pull her out of Ellingham Academy. Who other than her sworn enemy, Edward King, should come to her rescue in order to save his son from his own demise? Stevie is quickly brought back to the Academy to continue her detective work to find out where Ellie disappeared on that night a few weeks ago and who is really behind the Ellingham kidnapping. 3/5 stars
four | One of Us is Next by Karen McManus — E-Book
I was pleasantly surprised by the sequel to One of Us Is Lying. One of Us Is Next follows Maeve, Knox, and Phoebe as Bayview High is plagued by a vicious Truth or Dare game that ends up being deadlier than anyone thought possible. I felt like the thriller aspect of this book grabbed my attention more fully than the first book for some reason. It’s completely far-fetched, but I loved it. I loved the relationships Phoebe built with Maeve and Knox, I loved the emphasis on family, and I loved seeing the characters from the first book from a new perspective. All in all, a fun weekend read. 4/5 stars
five | Daring Greatly by Brené Brown — Audiobook
Daring Greatly was even better than Dare to Lead. This was Brown’s most popular book from my research, and its acclaim is well-deserved. This is another book I’ll be buying the physical copy of because it was so helpful and informative. Brown delves into why being vulnerable is so important in all aspects of your life and how it can further strengthen your relationships. 5/5 stars
Happy reading,
Kimberly
