I love to read! I have books scattered throughout my house, as well as, downloaded on my iPad. Just like my music choices, I do not limit myself to one genre when I am devouring words on a page. My mood dictates what I read, and, whether or not I want to read the old fashioned way (an actual book in hand), or, on my iPad. With all of the options for entertainment in the world, there is still nothing like curling up on the couch with a good book for a lazy afternoon of reading.
If you too love to read, here are a few recommendations from me to you. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.
Social Justice
Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult made me cry gut-wrenching tears as I journeyed with a black mother and her son who found themselves surrounded by hate for no other reason than the color of their skin. Jodi Picoult nailed what it feels like to be a black person facing insurmountable odds in this book. I highly recommend this book!
Picking Cotton by Jennifer Thompson-Cannino, Ronald Cotton, and Erin Tornio is a must read about a criminal conviction based upon a false identification. Honestly, I was reluctant to read this book because I sometimes just don’t want to read anything related to the legal profession during my free time. I am so glad that I finally decided to pick this book up. Picking Cotton is a true story about a white woman identifying the wrong black man as her rapist, causing him to go to prison, and, the aftermath of his exoneration thanks to DNA.
Love
Falling by Jane Green is a great story about finding love when and where you least expect it. If you are a hopeless romantic like me you will enjoy the journey of love between Emma and Dominic, a couple that did not “fit in the box”.
The Dark Between Stars by Atticus. I came across this poet on Instagram and his words just gripped me. I immediately ordered both of his books, The Dark Between Stars and Love Her Wild. In a society where men seldomly are seen as beings capable of true love, Atticus’ words prove otherwise. If you are a hopeless romantic like me, these books need to be added to your bookshelf.
Inspiration
Heart Talk by Cleo Wade. I came across this book on Elaine Welteroth’s Insta page and boy am I happy I did. I actually purchased about 7 copies because I felt an overwhelming need to share Cleo Wade’s simple, heartfelt words about living a life of peace and happiness with others. If you are looking to be inspired, please add Heart Talk to your list of must reads!
The Wisdom of Sundays by Oprah Winfrey. My daughter and my cousin both surprised me with copies of this book on Christmas. I kept both! Oprah always seems to nail it when it comes to ones journey for peace, happiness, and inspiration. It’s a book by Oprah, need I say more!
Reading Time With Gabby
Wonder by A.J. Palacio is a great book to read along with your little one. Gabby and I looked forward to our reading time together when we began reading this book. It is a great story about a young child dealing with his insecurities as a result of a physical deformity, and, learning to navigate in a world that can sometimes be very cruel, even to children.
Want to Read
Lately I have been having a strong desire to read auto/biographies so I am looking forward to reading Decision Points by George W. Bush and The Autobiography of Eleanor Roosevelt by Eleanor Roosevelt.
Send me any suggestions that you have! I am always in search of a good read.
Much love,
Tonza
Good day……. In “Picking Cotton” did the accuser just pick any Black or Brown man, or did the rapist at least look like the perpetrator?
I have a friend who wants my opinion about her manual…. I will e-mail you the link from Tashaya Singleton from Create Space….. Please see what you think……
she gave a description and then picked him out with the assistance of law enforcement. The gentleman falsely accused did have striking similarities to the actual perpetrator.
Okay. Looking forward to reading your friend’s manual.
Have you ever considered launching a book club here in Windsor? Such a good way to meet like minded or not so like minded women. I participated in one in Raleigh and Northern Virginia. Great fun and camerarderie.
That is a wonderful idea. Let’s do it!