The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In 1939, the ripple effects of Hitler take root in South Africa with the seeds of apartheid. There, a boy called Peekay is born. His childhood is marked by humiliation and abandonment, yet he vows to survive and conceives heroic dreams–which are nothing compared to what life actually has in store for him. He embarks on an epic journey through a land of tribal superstition and modern prejudice where he will learn the power of words, the power to transform lives, and the power of one.

Last time I read the abridged version and really enjoyed that. This full-length book felt long but, it was very enjoyable due to the fabulous narration but definitely too long. Also, my book club pointed out how EVERYTHING went Peekay's way and, this gets old pretty quickly. Still, a well told story but I would recommend the abridged version.

Fifty Shades Darker by E.L. James

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the perfect antidote to your by brain being on overload, a light fluffy read that is entertaining. I will be reading the 3rd one at some point.

The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor

The Happiness Advantage: The Seven Principles of Positive Psychology That Fuel Success and Performance at Work by Shawn Achor
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Watch his video to get an understanding of the book: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GXy__k...

What I got from the book was:
- Your mind is a computer and will believe what you put in to it
- Positive thinking will generate happiness and success (not the other way around)

His recommendations to practice happiness are:
1. Identify 3 NEW things each day you are grateful for
2. Journal about something you are grateful for
3. Mediate
4. Practice random acts of kindness

Nook vs Kindle

I have both the Nook and the Kindle.  I like the Kindle better.  Why?  Several reasons, it is smaller.  I have it in my purse all the time and can pull it out any time.  It is light and doesn't weigh down my purse a lot.  Finally, library books do not expire from it the way they do off of the Nook.  Yes, you heard me correctly.  The Nook has a 'time bomb' that makes the book expire at the end of the 2 week library loan period.  With the Kindle, if you do not turn on your wireless, the book stays on your Kindle and is available to read indefinitely.  Shhhhh!  Don't tell.

Run by Ann Patchett

Run by Ann Patchett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was an enjoyable read. Ann Patchett is an amazing author. How does she weave so much depth into her characters, their lives, their histories and it all takes place in a scant 48 hour period. She does an amazing job of making this feel light and enjoyable and yet thought provoking.