Like Jess, I have a pile of books ready for the new year. I'll probably read a couple of them simultaneously, as is often my wont. I'm a big fan of history, biography, and nonfiction, but do like a novel now and then. Here are the books I will read early in 2011 in no particular order:


I'm a fan of Barbara Kingsolver, so I'm eager to read this one. I bought this autographed copy at Kingsolver's restaurant in Meadowview, Virginia.

I've read another book by this author and hold out great hopes for this one. I received this book at a Christmas gift.


I love Bill Bryson! He is one of my all-time favorite authors. I once wrote him a letter, and surprisingly, he wrote me back! His books are so funny while also most informative. I've already begun reading this one.

I'm working on a huge family project, archiving all of the photographs, letters, ephemera, and objects handed down through the generations. This book will guide my work. I know the project will take at least a year. I've ordered all of the archiving supplies I'll need. Now I must begin to sort through the boxes and boxes of artifacts.


This book holds particular interest for me as I grew up in a sundown town. It shocking how we oppressed African-Americans in this country. Shame on us.