Welcome to the book club you never asked to be a part of! I really shouldn’t even be using the term “club”, since this will be nothing like that (unless some one reads this blog and chooses to comment, starting some sort of conversation).

Before I start I should get something straight: I’m not trying to pretend to be a super-reader. I’m really not one and I never have been. It usually takes me awhile to finish a book, simply because I forget to continue reading. But I have been choosing to pick one up here and there instead of flipping on the tv or playing one of the three Spotify playlists I’ve been alternating through. So without further ado: a quick review of the most recent books I’ve finished.

Less - Andrew Sean Greer

This book got a lot of praise & was recommended by a handful of people, but it started as a difficult read for me. It is hardly told chronologically — jumping around and referencing many stories from the main characters past, which made it hard for me (ADD) to follow. I caught myself zoning out while reading and when I came to, not realizing if the narrator was describing present or past events.
As the novel continued — around 100 pages in — I started getting more comfortable with Greer’s writing (and then I couldn’t put the book down).

it took me 4 months to get into this book, and then I finished it in 3 days. The book follows Arthur Less, a semi-successful novelist on a trip around the world to avoid his ex-lovers wedding. Less’s experiences abroad are tragically hilarious, and you really begin to love this character as you learn more about him, through both his actions and stories told of his past, the narration is thoughtful and so eloquently written. Almost TOO well written for me at parts, but I would just re-read the paragraph and usually get chills afterwords.

Final score: 5/5

Adequate Yearly Progress - Roxanna Elden

I just picked this one up from the discount table at Barnes & Noble, but I actually ended up really enjoying it. The story follows a handful of high school teachers in Texas — each chapter is told from the perspective of a different teacher. There’s a Trump-like character who knows bullshit about schooling but is elected the new superintendent. The entire novel draws some parallels to the current state of the world, discussing racial tensions without being too political.

it was a fun, quick read that I finished in a few days and then lent to my mom (a teacher) who I think will really enjoy it.

Final score: 4/5

A Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass

Bruno’s aunt recently dropped off a bunch of his old school books (I think her son was borrowing them at some point). Anyways, there are a bunch of classics in the mix, some of which I’ve never read, including: Freddrick Douglass’s autobiography. I chose to read this one because, as someone who grew up in Maryland, I don’t know nearly enough truth about my home state. That kind of blatant truth was not really taught to me in school — curriculum tends to beat around the bush. It’s appalling to have so much local history suppressed due to the systemic racism in our country.

This book was obviously devastating at times, but clearly meant to just be a peek into the life of an enslaved person at the time. Douglass was so intentional in his writing, leaving out just enough to not incriminate anyone who helped him or to make it harder on slaves who were still trying to escape. I had to keep reminding myself that he didn’t just escape slavery and it was over, thousands of people were still ensalved in this country when he published his book. Douglass knew that if he described his escape, slave owners would make it even more difficult for their slaves to free themselves.

Overall, this was a pretty interesting read, but just an introduction. There’s a lot more literature out there that will go into more detail about the horrors these people endured. It’s tragic, but it’s time for me to get more educated on this shit.

Final score: 4/5

Houseplants For All - Danae Horst

Ahh, the book I wish I had when I was a beginning plant parent. I read the whole thing cover to cover. Danae is a photographer herself, so there’s no surprise the photos of foliage and planty homes are stunning. The book is PACKED with houseplant information: the pros and cons of different planter materials, breaking down common soil mixtures, and even resources on where to buy beautiful and functional planty tools (not amazon!).

More of my favorite things about this book:

1. Explains the difference between cool and warm mist humidifiers and other key features that determine which humidifier is best for your space and your plants (instead of just saying “up the humidity”)

2. Thorough plant profiles that include key facts for different species such as light and water requirements, soil preferences, notes and even styling tips. I love the “notes” column because there’s something unique about each plant. This information is also available on the care card when you buy a plant directly from Folia, and I always save my care cards (because the advice is not bs!) Another reason I love shopping at Folia.

3. How to drill drainage holes in your planters. I’m telling you, this would have been SO important when I started collecting plants.

4. Pros and Cons of all living situations. Instead of just implying a bright, sunny room with ample humidity is the best environment for plants, Danae points out any environment can be a good home for plants if you choose the right types. So don’t even sweat it if you live in an apartment with super shifty light. Just focus on the positives: You’ll be able to experiment with a broader variety of plants in your home, building your plant knowledge.

I met Danae at my very first plant swap (hosted at her own plant shop, Folia Collective in Eagle Rock, CA) and she was so kind and helpful from the start. If you are getting into plants for the first time, this might be one of the best books for you.

Final score: 5/5