February Reading

After my baking frenzy finally ceased, I was able to lounge on the couch this weekend with a cup of coffee and a book.

I started our new book club pick - "Fifty Shades of Grey."

My "12 in 12" pick for February was "The Success Principles" by Jack Canfield.

I also read "The Reader" and "How to Raise the Perfect Dog." Of course, you all know by now that I'm an expert dog trainer, but a refresher course doesn't hurt every now and then.

(In this picture here, I must have asked Colby to go fetch the toilet paper roll from the trashcan.)

So here's what I have to say about the books....

1. The Reader did not win me over. It was a quick read with a somewhat dark plot, but nothing too memorable for me. I am disappointed that this was an Oprah's Book Club selection.

2. Fifty Shades of Grey. Oh my. I'm somewhat speechless. This book has quite the cult following, and actually got it's start as "Twilight Fan Fiction." I'm almost finished with this book and have been compelled to do a little research on both the book itself and the book's main subject. Probably the best article I've found about "Fifty Shades" is this: Fifty Things about Fifty Shades.

I agree that this book is "like crack"- bad but irresistible. (Please note that I have no personal experience with crack usage.) It's also been reviewed as "Pornography for Mommies" and I'd say that's a pretty accurate description. To say that this book is heavy on sex, the F word, and stereotypical fetishes would be the understatement of the decade!

This book is no longer in print, so unless you have access to a Nook or Kindle, good luck finding a copy!

3. How to Raise the Perfect Dog is what I expected from Cesar - sound and solid advice. The only thing that surprised me was that Cesar advocates buying a high-cost dog from a reliable breeder. While he supports rescuing dogs from shelters, he repeatedly harps on the advantages of having a knowledgeable, experienced, trustworthy breeder. I have, until now, been wholeheartedly convinced that I would never purchase a dog that wasn't from an animal shelter. In keeping an open mind, I can see Cesar's arguments and respect the decision of people who go the breeder route.

4. The Success Principles was disappointing. First of all, this book is enormous! I found myself skimming through many of the success points. I also felt that the author, Jack Canfield, came across as arrogant. He must have mentioned his success with the "Chicken Soup for the Soul" book over a hundred times! After reading "How to Win Friends...," this book was a drag.

Have you read anything good lately? If so, let me know! I'm always on the lookout for a good book!