I hope this February has found you curling up with something warm to drink and at least one good book! Below are some of the books I’ve been reading this month; note that the following may contain spoilers:

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass, by Lewis Carroll – These two fantastical books follow young Alice and her adventures. Introducing the reader to many memorable characters such as the White Rabbit, the White Knight, the Caterpillar, and Tweedledee and Tweedledum, the books are extremely witty and would make great read alouds. I enjoyed reading an edition that included both books and has some explanations of phrases or words that are typically no longer used; the notes made the stories make a lot more sense, as nonsensical as they may be!

Girls’ Club, by Sally Clarkson, Sarah Clarkson, and Joy Clarkson – Full of anecdotes, Scripture references, and fun ideas, the chapters in this collaborative book written by a mother and her adult daughters outline the importance of community, of building into one’s life a support network of friends and helpers, of understanding that everyone needs to be encouraged and heard. I’ve had this book for a number of years and have really been enjoying reading it. It is slow going, but not because I find it difficult to get through; rather, I want to savour all the wisdom, advice, and edification.

Over Sea, Under Stone, by Susan Cooper – The first in The Dark is Rising Sequence, this novel draws from Aruthurian legend. It follows three siblings, Simon, Jane, and Barney Drew, and their Great-Uncle Merry as they try to thwart the evil that is attempting to settle in the small village of Trewissick. Both mystery and fantasy, this would be a fun read aloud.

The Hiding Place, by Corrie ten Boom – This beautiful book is part of the story of one woman’s faith and struggle right before and through World War II. Always seeing God’s provision and goodness even amidst her suffering, Corrie ten Boom’s account is one that brings with it tears, but also the reminder of hope and of who God is.