First, I read Margaret Sartor's book Miss American Pie as soon as school let out. I'm sure many of you have already decided to read this one, and for good reason. It's a book by a Monroe native (Morgan's aunt!) about growing up in Monroe during the 70's. Based on her diary, the book covers a range of topics, including family, sexuality and Christian faith. It has received much praise from the national press, including "best book of the year" accolades. I highly recommend it, but warn parents that it does include mature themes and language. I'm hoping we can talk the author into a visit to our school.
I also just read The Road, by Cormac McCarthy -- winner of the 2007 Pulitzer Prize. I was alternately horrified and deeply moved by this book; it has stayed with me. Set in a post-apocalyptic America, the story follows a father and son as they travel south to the coast, fighting to overcome starvation, exposure to the elements, and roving bands of cannibals. It sounds like a B movie, but it reads like a masterpiece. I highly recommend it for those who can stomach its sometimes extreme, graphic violence.
Finally, I recommend Marilynne Robinson's Gilead, winner of both the 2005 Pulitzer Prize for fiction and the National Book Award. Another story about family and faith, it is told in the voice of a aged pastor writing a letter to his son. If this sounds boring, it's not. It's ultimately about love and humanity, and history, and religion, and writing, and life in general. And I give it my highest possible recommendation. It's also a "clean" pick for those parents concerned about the "mature" content of many contemporary novels.
Of course, many of you (like me) are anxiously awaiting the final installment of the Harry Potter series -- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows -- on July 21st!
For the moment, I'm reading Dave Eggers' book What is the What . I'll let you know how it turns out. I'll have some other suggestions as the summer months roll along. Meanwhile, if you read something you like, and you would like for me to pass on your recommendation, please email me.