March Into Reading!
March Into Literacy Month is here and what better way to celebrate than with a good book. Studies show that reading is not only enjoyable, but it also reduces stress, sharpens our memory, and is even protective against age-related cognitive decline. So...it helps us when we’re young, it helps us when we’re old, and it’s just plain fun!
If you’re looking for a good book, look no longer. We’ve reviewed some great reads for you. Here are some you might want to consider: Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor, thrillers including Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney and The Crash by Frieda McFadden, Laura Dave’s mystery The Night We Lost Him and a fun cozy mystery, A Case for Major Murder by J.C. Williams.
Of course, those are just some of our latest book reviews, and, hopefully, they’ll inspire you to check one out. If you’re new to reading and like thrillers, try reading any of Frieda McFadden’s books. They are all quick easy reads that always have an unexpected twist at the end. Or if thrillers aren’t your thing, give Laurie Gilmore or Patrick deWitt a try. There are plenty of suggestions on this site to guide you to your next story. Schedules can be a challenge, but try setting aside a little time to read each day. Find yourself a cozy nook just for yourself, or read to your kids, or even with a friend.
Looking for a way to celebrate reading this month? Try a book swap! Have friends bring in books and expand your horizons for free! Or create your own reading challenge. This is super fun to do with friends. You could even put a prize at the end for the most books read. If you want to take it up a notch, create a mini book club and discuss a novel with coworkers over lunch. Lastly, consider paying it forward and reading to others at the library, your kiddo’s school or even at a nursing home.
After all, everyone loves a good story.
Booklist: Six Books to Check Out in March
The Haunting of Room 904 by Erika T. Wurth - Horror
Every few years, a girl is found dead in room 904, no matter what room she checked into the night before. As paranormal investigator, Olivia Becente looks these deaths and discovers there is much more going on than she'd ever imagined.
Summer in the City by Alex Aster - Romance
A swoony, fast-paced rom-com set in New York City in which a screenwriter and a sexy tech CEO go from lovers to enemies and back to lovers again.
The Strawberry Patch Pancake House by Laurie Gilmore - Romance
Need a cozy Happily Ever After? Fall in love with the brand new spring romance featuring a single dad in Dream Harbor.
I Would Die For You by Sandie Jones - Thriller
Told in dual timelines, this suspenseful thriller traces the link between a woman's connection to the fall of a popular band nearly 40 years ago and the current disappearance of her daughter.
Saltwater by Katy Hays - Thriller
An electrifying thriller about an opulent family retreat to Italy that's shattered by the resurfacing of a decades-old crime.
One Good Thing by Georgia Hunter - Historical Fiction
A remarkable tale of friendship, motherhood, and survival, One Good Thing is a tender reminder that love for another person, even amidst darkness and uncertainty, can be reason to keep going.
Coffee and a book
Coffee, tea and latte syrup combos to try with your next read
- If you're a coffee lover, consider checking out Coffee Emporium, https://www.coffee-emporium.com. They produce sustainably sourced coffee that is amazing. They're located in Cincinnati, Ohio but you can order online. One to try: Winter Solstice
- More of a tea drinker? Try the Bourbon Chestnut Herbal Tea or the Banana Nut Muffin Herbal Tea from The Spice & Tea Exchange at spiceandtea.com.
- If you're a latte drinker and make them at home (typically 2 shots espresso and 8oz steamed milk), consider adding the following flavored syrup combinations:
1T maple + 1T caramel
1T lavender + 1T vanilla
2T caramel + 1T shortbread
