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.

Another busy week, but we managed to fit in a bit of fun too. We celebrated my husband’s birthday at home midweek, then went out to dinner at a downtown restaurant Friday. (It was nice to get out, but the restaurant itself was a bit disappointing compared to experiences there on previous visits).

Beyond that, our nonstop rain cleared enough over the weekend for me to be able to get out and enjoy a bit of sunshine… which is good, because another storm is expected today!

What did I read during the last week?

Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus: I finally checked out this extremely hyped book, with mixed results. My review is here.

Float Plan by Trish Doller: My audiobook for the past week was this sweet, touching romance that deals sensitively with grief and starting over. Review to follow.

The Heroine’s Journey by Gail Carriger: This non-fiction guide for readers and writers was my book group’s pick for March, and we were lucky enough to be able to chat via Zoom with the author over the weekend. She was delightful, and so generous with her time. The book is fascinating! Here’s my review from the first time I read it.

Pop culture & TV:

The final episodes of Daisy Jones & The Six dropped on Prime Video last week. Despite some early misgivings, I ended up enjoying the series quite a lot! I wrote up some thoughts, here.

I’m not bingeing anything at the moment — just watching weekly episodes of Sanditon (season 3), Yellowjackets (season 2), and Survivor (season 10,000 or thereabouts).

Possible upcoming binges: I know season 2 of Shadow & Bone is available now, but I’m not sure I care enough to continue the series. Anyone want to convince me otherwise? Later this week, the first episode of The Power airs on Prime Video, and I think I may check it out, although I had mixed feelings about the book it’s based on.

Fresh Catch:

No new books this week. And I even returned the library books I borrowed a few weeks ago but hadn’t started yet.

Puzzle of the week:

A pretty one!

And here’s what the box looks like:

So many little details… so much fun.

I have six more unopened puzzles to choose from. Hmmmm, which one to start next???

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

A House with Good Bones by T. Kingfisher: I can’t put this book down! Should be done by the end of the day — it’s so good!

Now playing via audiobook:

Jane of Lantern Hill by L. M. Montgomery: It’s been a couple of years, I think, since my last L. M. Montgomery book, and this one has been on my shelf for quite a while. It’s off to a good start!

Ongoing reads:

My longer-term reading commitments:

• Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone by Diana Gabaldon: Over at Outlander Book Club, we’re doing a group read of BEES, reading and discussing two chapters per week. Coming up this week: Chapters 112 and 113 (of 155).
• A Passage to India by E. M. Forster: My book group’s current classic read, also two chapters per week.
• Picnic at Hanging Rock by Joan Lindsay: My new Classics Club Spin read! I still haven’t started it yet — I’m just leaving it here as a pending item until I actually pick it up. I have until the end of April to get it done.

So many books, so little time…