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My Book Shelf - From Childhood to Adult

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I've been a voracious reader from the moment I learned how to read with the “Dick and Jane” books in elementary school.  Here are books I've loved and read as a child through current time.
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Children

These are the books that first made reading feel like home to me. Filled with wonder, warmth, and unforgettable characters, they capture the simple joy of getting lost in a story. Each one holds a little piece of childhood magic.

 
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This is a classic.  I read this story to my kids.  Such a wonderful tale.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar
 
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Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel - an enduring classic. A tale of endurance and a “can do” attitude.  I am lucky enough to live in the same town as Virginia Lee Burton did and feel a special fondness for her illustrations and stories.
Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel: Story and Pictures
 
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Forever stories, still being told and retold today.  My kids enjoyed being read to and reading the tales by Hans Christian Anderson.
An Illustrated Treasury of Hans Christian Andersen's Fairy Tales: The Little Mermaid, Thumbelina, the Princess and the Pea and Many More Classic Stories
 
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We have a new baby in our family and this book was one of the shower gifts. I can't wait to read it to her!
Hello, Sleep!: Turn the Wheel and Become a Bedtime Superstar!
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Young Adult

This shelf represents those in-between years, when stories felt especially meaningful. These books explore growing up, big feelings, and figuring out who you are. They’re comforting, emotional, and the kind you stay up too late reading.

 
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I first read this wonderful story when I was a teenager in the 70's. I still enjoy re-reading as well as watching the movie.  My kids read it as well and we still talk about it.
The Hobbit
 
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The Hunger Games story line is already on it's way to being a classic.  I read the books along with my kids and we enjoyed discussing the story afterwards.
The Hunger Games: Illustrated Edition
 
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A moving story from a time in history.  Comfort in books and the power of words. A must read.
The Book Thief
 
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If you've never had an interest in Greek Mythology - this book and subsequent ones in the series will spark that curiosity.  Another book my kids and I read together.  We spent a lot of time looking up the Greek Gods and Goddesses and learned a lot!
Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Book One: The Lightning Thief

Adult Fiction

📚These books reflect where my reading tastes have grown—deeper themes, richer characters, and stories that linger long after the last page. From heartfelt to gripping, each title offers a meaningful escape and something to think about. Perfect for r...

 
Karen Scola profile picture
Yes! Dan Brown finally has a new book out.  I really enjoy the way he pieces together and paces his stories.  I've been a fan since The DaVinci Code
The Secret of Secrets: A Novel
 
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“The Housemaid” was my first Freida McFadden book.  Ever since this story I've been hooked on Freida!  You think you're settling in for an easy. light read - then - BAM! I mean I really didn't see it coming - how about you?
The Housemaid
 
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This was a FABULOUS kept me on the edge of my seat read. I so enjoy a UK based suspense story.
The Girl on the Train: A Novel
 
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Oh my - secrets, secrets everywhere! Be ready for the unexpected - Lianne Moriarty can tell a “right good ripper” of a story.
Big Little Lies
 
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I'm adding this one to my reading list for this year. I love a good "locked room" mystery.
The Murder at World's End