A Great Book
Are you looking for a riveting read? Good timing because have we ever got a page-turner for you.
We’re reading more in NVR land, so – from time to time – we want to share some of the best books that come into our world. If you’re looking to chill out with a good book, get your hands on The Submission by Amy Waldman. If you’re a traveler or consider yourself a world citizen or a book fanatic, you won’t be disappointed. We both loved it.
At it’s core, The Submission has all of the makings of a compelling novel – a powerful topic, richly developed characters and multiple strands of activity to keep you entertained and intrigued. What’s most noteworthy about Waldman’s ingenious book, though, isn’t the intense storyline revolving around a fictitious reimagining of the post-9/11 memorial selection. No, the real beauty is in the way that this fiction-based-on-fact novel makes you think about your own beliefs.
The novel jumps right into the thick of things, opening with the memorial selection committee’s much anticipated reveal of the anonymous winner’s name. We don’t want to give away a single additional plot point. Suffice it to say that, from that opening moment on, it’s a riveting, emotion packed read. What we both loved is that – through the perspectives of a variety of characters with different back stories – it challenges your perceptions about patriotism, bigotry, art, hate and grief (to name only five).
Somehow, the book manages to make you feel for each character’s perspective and history. In the process, you’re inspired to rethink the whys behind the way you think and the judgements you make.
It challenged us to rethink what it means to be American. Perfect for the All American theme that’s showing up in some of our posts this month.
Thinking you might read it? Let us know. It’d be fun to compare notes. Maybe we can do a Twit-versation Book Club down the road.
Because I had to know a little bit more, I looked it up on Amazon. What an interesting story line! I’ll add it to my list.
I think you’ll like it. Report back!
Now that I will have access to English books again, I will check this out.
Ok, I followed your advice. Starting it today (I’m so obedient). Here’s a guaranteed great read for you: The Power of One, by Bryce Courtenay. Trust me! And no, it is NOT a self-help book.
Will check it out. Sounds familiar.
Ooooh….The NVR Guys’ Twitter Book Club? Definitely a do! I’ve been feeling the need to read more lately too…thanks for the recommendation!
Maybe we’ll do it. We can all raise the bar on Twitter chat
Sounds like an interesting book. I haven’t read anything in months, mostly because I do most of my reading on planes. But I have some trips coming up soon with a lot of train travel (in other words, no having to calm Andy down like I do on flights) so I might check this out.
Why does Andy need calming down on flights?
You guys read together?!?! Jealous. I am always trying to get Jared to read with me but he much prefers articles (online or off) than books.
We’re both reading a lot more in general. We both read the good ones (like The Submission).
Good point, must make to time read a book. Too busy travel planning and exploring new travel blogs.
I hear you!
How nice to read a book review not about the 50 Shades of Frigging Grey!!
I know, that’s all you hear about these days. That book is so far out of our queue
Another to add to the Kindle!! Thanks!!
Yes, for when you aren’t learning Thai over beers.
Ok, this may sound silly but it is a “fun” read, and also made my fear of bees cease.
The Secret Life of Bee’s!
I know. I know. But it is a great feel/good story.
I’ve heard that before.
Thanks for the rec–I’m finishing up the latest John Grisham book (needed a fun book to read on a trip) and need something next to read soon. A friend is trying to convince me to read “Fifty Shades of Grey,” but I’m trying to avoid it at all costs. 9/11-related things tend to make me upset/emotional, but it sounds like this would be interesting without being painful.
It isn’t a “happy” read, but it’s very gratifying because it makes you think, and – I think – walk away with an appreciation for differing viewpoints.
This book was great. I was hooked from the opening sentence, and it got me through a long flight. (BTW, I’ve been enjoying your site. Your post on PDX reminded me that I need to get back to Nuvrei soon.) I’d be into a twitter book group.
Hi, Margaret! So SO glad you liked the book. It always feels good to hear you aren’t crazy. Thanks, too, for following our journey. Yeah… that Nuvrei is going to inspire us to get to Portland much more frequently.
Sounds like a great read. Thanks for the suggestion!