I started reading the Montmaray Journals, by Michelle Cooper about a month ago, starting with the first book -- A Brief History of Montmaray -- for my August book club. It's historical fiction, set near England during the late 1930s. I say "near" England because the first book takes place on the fictional island kingdom of Montmaray, located off the coast of Spain, but the sequels take place in England (no spoilers!) and the citizens of Montmaray were originally from England in the Middle Ages. The first book starts off pretty slow, but the setting is so vivid and unique, the story gets a little more complex as it goes along, and the characters flesh out more with each chapter. I loved the second book (FitzOsbornes in Exile) and am excited to start the third book of the trilogy. After FitzOsbornes at War, I'm picking up another sequel: China Rich Girlfriend.
2. What I'm listening to...
I have the new release, Dragons, by Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors on repeat these days. There are songs that are pure fun, some that are thoughtful, and a few that are sweet and romantic. I love Holcomb's Americana-a little-bit-rock-a little-bit-country sound, and this feels like they're best album yet.
3. Something I'm grateful for...
A good start to kindergarten!
4. A little inspiration...
I came across this G.K. Chesterton quote in a newsletter I subscribe to from children's book author Sally Lloyd Jones, and I think it's really thought provoking. I hope you enjoy it too:
“Because children have abounding vitality, because they are in spirit fierce and free, therefore they want things repeated and unchanged. They always say, “Do it again”; and the grown-up person does it again until he is nearly dead. For grown-up people are not strong enough to exult in monotony. But perhaps God is strong enough to exult in monotony. It is possible that God says every morning, “Do it again” to the sun; and every evening, “Do it again” to the moon. It may not be automatic necessity that makes all daisies alike; it may be that God makes every daisy separately, but has never got tired of making them. It may be that He has the eternal appetite of infancy; for we have sinned and grown old, and our Father is younger than we.” ― G. K. Chesterton, Orthodoxy
Happy Wednesday!
