My Monday tradition, including a look back and a look ahead — what I read last week, what new books came my way, and what books are keeping me busy right now. Plus a smattering of other stuff too.

Life.

What an amazing week! As of today, I’m flying back home after a 10-day visit to the East Coast. I was able to visit with my dad every day, and yesterday we had a family gathering to celebrate his 90th birthday.

Beyond that, I met up with various friends and family members for walks, dinners, and lunches, and even managed to get into the city and go to Broadway!

So much fun. It’ll be hard to get back to real life this week for sure.

What did I read during the last week?

Pop culture & TV:

TV-wise, my son convinced me to watch Squid Game (Netflix). I’ve only watched two episodes so far… but I can see why everyone seems to be talking about it!

This past Friday, I went to see Hadestown on Broadway. It was amazing! Loved the music, the staging, the choreography…

Here’s a look at the show:

… and the cast’s performance at the 2019 Tonys:

I need to get the soundtrack!

Fresh Catch:

No new books this week — but there should be some waiting for me when I get home.

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

I have a huge (virtual) pile of ARCs to read… but this book is due back at the library at the end of the week, so I think I’m going to read it first!

Now playing via audiobook:

The Firebird by Susanna Kearsley: I am *this close* to finishing… it’s so good, even as a re-read!

Ongoing reads:

• Outlander Book Club is doing a speed-re-read of Written in My Own Heart’s Blood, #8 in the Outlander series. We’re reading and discussing 5 chapters per week. This week: Chapters 116 – 120.

• Doctor Zhivago is our group classic read. We’re discussing twice per week, and expect to have the group read go through early 2022. Slow and steady!

• It’s October, and that means it’s time for A Night in the Lonesome October by Roger Zelazny! The book is organized into chapters corresponding to each day of the month. So far, I’m keeping up!

So many books, so little time…