I went to lunch with my cousin Allison yesterday. It was so nice to catch up. She's a blonde rockstar who is starting law school in the fall, and I can already see the droves of men lining up to "study" tortes with her. 

She asked me over our charred pizza what my writing process was, and how I know how to start to write something--be it a blog post or poem or piece of a novel. I wasn't really sure how to answer, because most of the time the words just come. I sit down in a quiet place, and as long as I have sufficiently prepared my mind (which means no reality television or work deadlines), I don't have to try so hard.

But that wasn't really true once I thought about it. I think the only reason I can write at all - the only reason I even have a desire to do it, is because I love to read. I love it, and I do it a lot, and that translates to my writing. I've said before, that I'm not much of a book snob. In fact, I try to mix up my reading with a blend of YAF, nonfiction, and adult fiction. That being said, here are some of my recent reads. Some have inspired me more than others, and some were pure entertainment. Just the way I like it.

Bird by Bird - Anne Lamott - I'll start with my favorite. I loved this book so much. It might be one of my favorites of all time. Even if you have no interest in writing, please read it. She is honest and hilarious. 

The One - Kiera Cass - This was the third in the trilogy and the weakest in my opinion. Still a fun beach read though.

We Were Liars - E. Lockhart - This was chilling and moving and so vivid. The ending was shocking. I definitely didn't see it coming.

The Blue Sword - Robin McKinley - This was a reread and I loved it more the second time. Such a classic fantasy. 

Eleanor & Park - Rainbow Rowell - I really didn't like this book. It might be the only one I can't recommend.

The Goldfinch - Donna Tartt - This book has received a lot of hype and just won a Pulitzer for fiction! I liked it a lot. The story moved and the characters were great. The language was a bit much for me but overall I would still recommend. 

The Color of Water - James McBride - This is a memoir and a great one at that. His life was strange and full of life, thanks to his mother. Very moving.

A Three Dog Life - Abigail Thomas - This is the best memoir I have ever read. I loved it so much. I think since my mother in law's accident it might be difficult to revisit though. Maybe in time I can come back to it. It is so sad and beautiful and funny somehow.

If you've read anything great lately, please let me know. With the baby coming I'm trying to stock up on good books for my maternity leave. (!) Can't believe I'm saying that.