BIRD BY BIRD: SOME INSTRUCTIONS ON WRITING AND LIFE by Anne Lamott
Her book gives us a companion that tells us what we want to hear: the joy of writing is not publishing, fame, or money, but the journey of our own thoughts put down on paper.  The title comes from advice her father gave her 10-year-old brother, faced with turning in a book report on birds he hadn’t yet begun: “Just take it bird by bird, buddy.” She applies this to the writing process, start small, and take it one character at a time.  You’ll enjoy her writing tips, and the humorous way in which she shares the process. Susan C.

THE SHARPER YOUR KNIFE THE LESS YOU CRY
by Kathleen Flinn, read by Cassandra Campbell
Upon losing her job at a software company in Seattle, Kathleen Flinn takes a leap of faith to fulfill her lifelong dream to study at the famous cooking school Le Cordon Bleu. This is a story of her trials and tribulations as she navigates her way through the French language, cuisine and demanding chefs. Cassandra Campbell’s voice flows between French and English with such ease. A fun and very entertaining listen.
Alison L.

AVA’S MAN by Rick Bragg
Rick Bragg has written a memorable family memoir about the grandfather he never knew. The story takes place during the depression in the Deep South. Charlie Bundrum’s ability to support his wife and seven children in unique and sometimes desperate ways, creates the family legend that is an example for his descendants to this day. The audio is narrated by Tom Stechschulte who does a superb job with his southern twang putting the listener in the Deep South.
Carrie H.

WEST WITH THE NIGHT
by Beryl Markham, read by Julie Harris
Beryl Markham, raised by her father on a farm in Africa, was the first person to fly solo across the Atlantic from east to west. Her memoir is beautifully written and captures the adventurous spirit in all of us. Julie Harris’ voice has just the right quality and feeling. It is as if Beryl is talking directly to us.
Alison L.