There’s nothing like beginning a new book and realizing it’s the kind that you never want to put down. While I’ve been told everyone doesn’t experience books the same way, I fortunately “view” my own personal movie, complete with voices, actors (no, they’re never famous ones), and scenery. Putting down a good book, for me, parallels pausing a movie at the theater. You know, remember that time when something went wrong with the film, and you had to wait to see it later. Popcorn and drink in hand…praying they’d figure it out? Irritating, right? It’s like that!
Since summer is on its way–and who doesn’t need a good beach book (Well, probably me since I don’t lay out, but I will park it on a porch, or couch, or even in a car)–I thought I’d introduce you to one of those books. Actually, there are 15 at last count, so you’ll be set for a while.
If you haven’t already been gifted into the Chief Inspector Gamache series by Louise Penny, you’re welcome. Her first book, Still Life, gets the ball rolling into the sometimes frenzied journey on which you’ll embark to solve murders with Gamache and his team. Penny’s plot twists, turns, and doubles back to keep readers in the dark about who the killer is, and her vivid details allow even the least creative to “see” her Canadian settings.
What I love about Penny’s books are her characters, who are both kindly and flawed. She creates an intimacy with them, constructing the sort you’d want to hang out with–all good people who care about being good people. Even the town they live in–if it existed–teases with its small town stores and cafes. If it wasn’t for the murders, it’d be perfect!
But, what I love most is Penny’s infusion of sensibility, good naturedness, and empathy into her stories. Through her character’s interactions, thoughts, and dialogue, she urges us to be better. By demonstrating morality and integrity through her storylines, we’re given examples–and, quite literally, instructions–by which to navigate our own lives. Oh yeah, and she’s an incredible storyteller.
Penny was a featured author at the The National Book Festival in Washington, D.C. last year, spending time with her fans (of course, luckily, I was one of them, and I didn’t embarrass myself, thank you😳) and being interviewed by Maureen Corrigan, a renowned book critic. Watch the interview on YouTube, and you’ll understand why the author is as captivating as her art. Honestly, I could see us as friends–and yes, I realize thousands would say the same thing:).
So, I hope you’re able to delve into the world of Three Pines. They have her books at the library too, you know. I read some of the large print copies because the regular print was checked out, meaning my readers weren’t needed.
By the way, I receive no payment for my enthusiastic review of Ms. Penny; just passing along the joy of reading the work of a remarkable writer.
Quote of the Day:
“You know you’ve read a good book when you turn the last page and feel a little as if you’ve lost a good friend.” Paul Sweeney
Designs on Life 