Jacob Have I Loved by Katherine Paterson on Libby, read by Moira Kelly, 3 hours

This Newbery book was a great young adult story that I really enjoyed.  Sara Louise is the unhappy twin to gifted and loved Caroline. She spends her youth resenting her and it's painful to hear about, and very relatable as she tries to understand her feelings. The captain becomes a great friend but then provides Caroline with a lifeline that sends poor Louise into even more resentment. It was interesting to read about her isolated island life, demented grandmother, and sympathetic parents. Talk about a victim mentality! 

I was thinking it would be interesting to get Henry's take on this story and this character when we're on our road trip in a couple of weeks. I don't know if it would appeal to him or not... 

I remember those surprising feelings and how they would come upon me without warning. I remember thinking I was crazy and that I could live out my life in a certain way, just as Louise was thinking. This author really understands the 13-15 year old mindset! It was good food for thought as I walked in St. George's summer heat!

The Girls' Guide to Hunting and Fishing by Melissa Bank

This book, with the girl in tall rubber boots on the cover, had attracted me when it first came out. When I found it in the "Little Library" for free, I snatched it up. I was totally enjoying the beginning of the book, where the 14-year old narrator describes her summer, when the story ended. It's actually a collection of short stories where some of the characters reappear. The author has a very wry sense of humor and her descriptions are insightful and funny.

It's been awhile since I finished it, but I recall thinking that I would like to read it again. The humor is often self-effacing and really elucidates the thinking of a 14-year old. If I take it up again, I'll write more. I'm not remembering enough to really describe my reactions right now...