No One Belongs Here More Than You

I finished Miranda July's book of short stories No One Belongs Here More Than You. This was my first collection of July's stories I've read (I did see one of her short films on Wolphin) and it wasn't what I expected.

Her stories and characters are eclectic, almost bizarre.

One "Swim Coach" is about a woman who teaches a group of seniors how to swim...even though there's not a pool for miles. She lays out bowls of water and the "students" put their faces in the bowl and "swim" around the kitchen.

The last story "How to Tell Stories to Children" doesn't end the way I thought it would, but it is touching and thought-provoking.

A Walk in the Woods

I read A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson very quickly and I've been quoting him ever since.

It is a great and funny book and I can't believe I didn't read it sooner. If you like hiking or being outdoors or just find humor in the idea of someone attempting to hike the Appalachian Trail, it's a must read.

I found myself alternating between laughing out loud and worrying about Bill and his hiking companion. Luckily, all ended well! Bryson also mixes in history and background on the trail and the environment which adds another level of interest.

Plus it gives you a true appreciation when you are hiking .7 miles of the trail. I don't think I'll ever hike as much of it as Bryson did, but I do want to hike more of the little bits I've accomplished so far.