.comfort books.

Ok, so I know I get a lot of my ideas from NPR (much to the chagrin of my brother-in-law who for some reason detests NPR), but they're just so brilliant and they feature a lot about books (which if you can't tell is my most popular subject).  So a few days ago, as a part of their "Three Books" series, NPRBooks featured a piece called "Comfort Books: Three Soothing Summer Reads". So I thought I would post my three comfort books; books that I go to when I'm feeling sad, need a laugh, or just to make me feel comforted after a long day of reading theory or lit. criticism.  [I'd love to hear yours, as well!]

1. The Trouble with Poetry by Billy Collins - I know I include this book of poetry in every book list I do, but I just can't help it.  His poems (especially in this collection) will make you laugh out loud!

2. Flannery O'Connor: Spiritual Writings edited by Robert Ellsburg - Scott gave me this book and it lies in the bookshelf above my head.  Lately I've been bringing it out at night and reading a few of her passages just to ponder.  It is a collection of her letters, criticism, and passages from her short stories.

3. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott - I grew up watching the movie first, but I adore the book as well.  For some reason, the Christmas scenes really stick with me and it always seems like a good Christmas read to me.

**If you're in the mood for a good laugh (and this is mainly for the girls) I highly recommend the Shopoholic series by Sophia Kinsella.  So many girls will line their beach bags with Nicholas Sparks books (so did I when I was in my early years of high school), but if you want a light, fun read that won't have you needing a Kleenex, and if you're into fashion and shopping (and even if you're not), these are indulging reads that will have you rolling in the sand (with laughter, that is)!

photo from examiner.com