My 2014 Reading Plan
For the last two years, I have managed to read over 100 books. I was just shy of that goal for the two years prior, when I started keeping track of the books I’ve read for the year. I’d like to keep that goal of 100 books for the upcoming year. Yes, I know I am expecting a baby in March so that might change my reading plans. It does mean that I will be reading more baby / parenting books. As for number of books read, we shall just have to wait and see!
As I explained when I shared the highlights of my 2013 reading, I try to be a well-rounded reader. My favorite genre is fiction, particularly historical fiction, but I do enjoy other genres as well so I try to reflect that in my reading. In no particular order, here are 10 of the books I am looking forward to reading this year.
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Have you heard of family-friendly comedian Jim Gaffigan? If so, maybe you’ll want to read this book, too! Dad of 5 kids, I’m sure this book will be an entertaining read. I’ve already started it (on recommendation from a friend) and am enjoying it.
2. Miserly Moms by Jonni McCoy
This book has been sitting on my bookshelf for much too long. With the baby coming soon, it’s time to really put my frugal practices to work! This is just one of the frugal books I have plans to read this year, but I’m going to start with this one.
3. Say Good-bye to Survival Mood by Crystal Paine
Crystal, of Money-Saving Mom fame, has a new book coming out later this month and I am very eager to read it! Her website encourages me on a daily basis and I look forward to reading what she has to share in her latest book.
4. What the Most Successful People in the World Do Before Breakfast by Laura Vanderkam
Time management is very important and I’ve heard good things about this book by Laura Vanderkam. I believe that the start of one’s day makes a big difference in how the day continues so I am curious to hear what this book has to say on the topic.
Yay! Dee Henderson has another new book out so I will be reading it this year. I’ve actually already requested it at the library so just need to wait for it to arrive. If you read anything by Dee Henderson, know that it’s hard to put her books down once you start!
I tend to read at least a couple of adolescent fiction books every year. I’ve heard interesting things about this “Divergent” series so I want to read for myself what these books are all about. From what little I know, it’s a dystopia style of books, much like Hunger Games.
7. Call the Midwife by Jennifer Worth
I’ve fallen in love with this PBS series, which is based on this true story, set in England during the War. I started the book last year but it was due back at the library before I got a chance to finish it. I’m going to finish it this year!
8. On Becoming Baby Wise by Gary Ezzo and Robert Bucknam
I know there are heated opinions on the Baby Wise sleep methods, but I want to read it for myself before deciding. Andy and I both believe in the importance of a good night’s sleep so I am curious for the opinions on how to teach our baby that.
This fiction book is about a woman who loves all things Jane Austen and goes on a special trip to experience life in Austen’s times. This book looks like a light and enjoyable read. Plus, there is a movie based on this book coming out soon, so I want to read the book first.
Jon Acuff has become quite the source of inspiration for me via his blog. He has written several books and I want to read them all. It seems fitting to start with Start and go on from there.
Those are just a couple of the books I’m looking forward to reading this year. If I keep my goal, this is only one-tenth of what I’ll read! Do you have recommendations of books that I should add to my reading list? Happy reading to all of us!
I loved Divergent, it was such a fun read! Miserly Moms looks interesting.
As far as Babywise goes, it really depends a lot on if you are going to breastfeed. That’s where the trouble comes in, because all of the nursing that you do in the first 6-8 weeks establishes your milk supply for the entire duration of your nursing relationship. So it’s really important to follow your baby’s cues. I always recommend that moms who are going to breastfeed read this letter: http://theleakyboob.com/2011/08/baby-explains-normal-newborn-behavior/
And if you have a La Leche League group near you, it’s great to go before you have the baby to get an idea of what to expect and to get some support from other moms who are in your shoes. Here is the Fort Wayne group: https://www.facebook.com/LLLFW
Your world will be upside down for awhile, and that’s okay! Try to enjoy the last trimester and rest up – your sweet little one will be here before you know it!
Everyone seems to agree that Divergent is a fun read, so I’m looking forward to it. Great point on the Babywise & breastfeeding. That’s a beautiful letter, and exactly why I want to breastfeed. I’m planning on heading to a breastfeeding class at the hospital before the baby is born. Thanks for reassuring me that an upside down world is okay, Kelly. I need to hear that!
I read Babywise before my first baby was born. You’re right – there are heated opinions about it! I found some helpful tips in there and was able to pick and choose exactly how ‘strict’ I would be with it. The good thing is that YOU get to decide what’s best for you and your baby! 🙂
Thanks, Christa. I want to be as common sense about this baby as possible. I’ve seen so much debate already, I think Moms need to be more supportive of each other’s choices. Thank YOU for your encouragement!
Looking forward to checking out these books! Two are already on my list for next year. I just recently discovered Call the Midwife was a book. I’ve heard lots about the show but haven’t watch. I might have to see if the library has it. Dee Henderson is hard to put down, ha ha. I have to make sure I space out reading books like that so I get other things done.
I’m the same way, Deanna! If I read books like Dee’s all the time, I wouldn’t get anything else done. I really enjoy the PBS series of Call the Midwife, so I think I’ll enjoy the book, too.