Wild (From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail) by Cheryl Strayed

Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail

The book is called "Wild," but the author is also somewhat wild. She lost her mom when she was in her twenties, and with her mom's death came the breakup of her family and her own marriage. So, partly for healing and partly to do something "wild" the author walks part of the Pacific Crest Trail. However, she had had no training or practice before she embarked on this momentous journey.

Partly the book was interesting because of what she attempted (and achieved) but mainly because I felt a oneness with the author for attempting something out of her comfort zone, also the book kept me reading and wanting more. The story was that of a journey, but with flashbacks to her earlier life, something I don't generally like, but in this case was extremely well done. The writing was so good that on three separate occasions I cried as I read the story.

This book is way up high with my other favorite books of all time. I would recommend it to anyone.

Room: A Novel by Emma Donoghue

Room: A Novel

The book is the story of a 5 year old who has spent all his life in one room. The book is written from his perspective. He is with his mom and watches television and vaguely understands that there is a world beyond the Room, but has never been there. Gradually you realize that the two of them are being held captive, but it takes a while before you understand why.

I can't really say more about the book without giving spoilers. But I would rate it 5 out of 5 stars. It was engrossing and I kept wanting more. I listened to the CD and at first found the boy's voice a little grating, but eventually I got used to it and enjoyed listening to the sound of a 5 year old telling of his adventure.

The book really does see life from a 5 year old's point of view. Some things which puzzle the boy are obvious to the reader (or listener). Later in the book his mom takes the dialog and he voice was easier to listen to.

Just to say that I thought the whole story was unbelievable until a few months after I read the book this story played itself out in the news.