July Book List

Bringing Home the Birkin.  The true story of Michael Tonello's foray into the world of Hermes.  An ex-pat now living in Barcelona, Tonello discovered a lucrative venture that led to him gaining and insider's perspective on the elusive Birkin bag.  This book has many great points: first, the look into the extravagant and excessive world of Hermes and those that purchase its products; second, it's set against a gorgeous European scenic backdrop that takes Tonello beyond Barcelona across the European continent; third, Tonello's engaging writing style.  This is a perfect summer read!

A Visit from the Goon Squad.  This Pulitzer Prize winning novel was this month's book club pick.  Met with the most varying reviews from our book club selections yet, responses ran the gamut from love to hate of the read.  I personally fell on the love side.  The novel is comprised of intersecting stories and characters revolving around the music industry.  The book spans many years and does not take place in a linear fashion, instead moving back and forth in time depending on the chapter and point of view.  Despite the characters deep flaws you find yourself rooting for them in spite of yourself.  I found the book riveting and worth its praise.

A Piece of Cake.  This is the memoir of Cupcake Brown's life--her evolution from an abused child riddled with addictions to becoming a successful lawyer in her adult life.  Brown suffered innumerable atrocities in her youth, that sometimes leaves you reeling and not sure if you could even read on.  Becoming a drug addict very early in her youth, it seems her life is heading nowhere, until she hits rock bottom and turns her life around.  This story of triumph over a horrific childhood is empowering and inspiring, not to mention it will stick with you long after you finish the last page.