Read 50 Books in 2012

12. Smile When You’re Lying by Chuck Thompson

13. Calico Joe by John Grisham

14. Wild by Cheryl Strayed

Robert Herjavec appears on the US television show Shark Tank and the Canadian version, Dragon’s Den. On the US program, he is the only one of the four male panelists who does not seem arrogant. I picked this book up out of interest in who he is. It is a great book for anyone who wants to start or has started his or her own business. For me, it was a great glimpse into the mindset of someone who is driven to succeed in his own business.

This was a great mystery book. I’ve enjoyed reading CJ Box’s books for several years now. This is not one from his Joe Pickett series but a stand alone, like Blue Heaven. Set in and around Yellowstone National Park, this mystery takes place among the guests and staff of a guided horse-packing trip.

My favorite part is when the protagonist, the outfitter and one of the guests (a teenage girl) all begin to profile one another. Box really gets in their heads with a fascinating perspective. Having done hiking and biking trips in other parts of the western US and Mexico, I found this book difficult to put down. Definitely my favorite read of the year, thus far.

The second in the series. We have about a month before we bring our nieces on the Harry Potter scavenger hunt. I’m slowly getting Harry literate but feel the need for a break from HP.

A fun read to get ready for our Harry Potter scavenger hunt. I can see why kids and adults both enjoy the book.

Somehow, this goal was moved to the “I’m done” section. It is far from done.

Death with Interruptions by Jose Saragamo was a very entertaining and thought provoking read. We all think the end of death as we know it would be a wonderful thing, but have we really thought it through. Jose Saragamo has and describes it with great wit and wisdom. A true master in terms of understanding human nature and the world.

5. In the Garden of the Beasts – Erik Larson

6. Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close – Jonathan Safran Foer

A very interesting read. The author profiles a class of motorcycle rider that rides extreme distances in relatively short periods of time; relying less on speed and more on denying oneself basic comforts and bodily functions. One elite rider is especially profiled: John Ryan, the consumate rider in this class.

The author is a talented writer with a great way of turning a phrase and expressing her ideas. A long time rider herself, this is less of a reporter’s perspective and more of the point of view of someone who has been touched by this group of riders.

This was an enjoyable book. I enjoyed the emphasis on being responsible for one own’s happiness and that people will only find happiness by being themselves; the best self possible but definitely not trying to be something that you’re not.

For my fellow American’s who think this has to do with Mr. Let’s Make a Deal – sorry – wrong Monty Hall.

This is a British gentleman who is something of an adventurer and a great story teller. My aunt in Connemara recommended the book as it is based from the island we visited a few years back. Mr. Hall spent a summer living there and used it as a base to conduct marine research for the Irish Whale and Dolphin group and to educate the public about these wonderful animals. He also becomes very involved in the local community. He has a great wit and my wife had to endure the strange chuckles and laughter that emanated from me while I read.