#93 Plain Truth

So about 15 minutes ago I finished Plain Truth by Jodi Picoult. It is one of those books you can read through pretty quickly. It tells an interesting story without ever really getting too deep into any one of the characters. A few details about the story were a surprise but mostly it followed a predictable path from beginning to end. It also seemed to me like it would make a compelling made-for-TV movie, if you like that sort of thing, of course.

Having grown up in Pennsylvania, about an hour or two away from Lancaster and Amish country, I remember seeing lots of buggies on the smaller country highways. I knew a little about Amish culture but it was interesting to read about their community and religious differences. No phone, no cars, no need for any of that stuff. Helping each other out as a sense of community instead of an obligation or chore. Being genuinely content with what you have and who you are with at all times. What a peace they must have. A love for each other without ridiculous expectations and conditions.

Legal thrillers are always easy for me to read. I have read just about all of John Grisham's stuff. They move along quickly, introducing characters and case details at regular intervals to keep you hooked and following along until the moment you have it all figured out just before the author reveals everything you need to know. Not quality literature I know, but an easy read to pass the time on my treadmill.

On to 5 Conversations You Must Have With Your Daughter by Vicki Courtney. I am not usually a nonfiction reader. But this book is the basis for a small group that I am leading through my mother-daughter book club for the moms. We got a hold of the DVD and study guides to read along and have discussions about how we can help our daughters as they grow older and mature and how we can help each other through the next 10 years of our lives. I am excited to read this one.