The Story of Beautiful Girl by Rachel Simon

Simon creates an almost hauntingly accurate portrayal of the history of mental health in America from institutions to self-determination. If you are an individual that is interested in acquiring more knowledge of mental health this is a good book to read because it does not have the bland nature of a non-fiction read.

It is easy to become immersed with the characters and be drawn into their world because Simon creates unique voices for each of the main characters. The story is told from various viewpoints, so you need to be able to keep a few main characters straight as you are reading, but Simon makes each setting unique so you are not questioning who you are with at any one time or where they are at. She knows how to fully put you inside of the scenes that she creates. Also this book would be considered an inspirational book in my opinion on how one should never give up hope, even in the darkest of situations. If you like this type of book then you will love this one!

I cannot recommend this book enough. While it may feel it drags in parts, especially when reading the parts for the character named Homan, when you reach the final page you understand the choices Simon made and  recognize you have been safely guided to the correct destination.

Until next time... Stay OPTIMISTIC!!

Janet Evanovich's "How I Write"

When I read "One for the Money" by Evanovich I have to be honest I was not a huge fan. I could not get behind the story at all, but I decided to give her book on writing a shot cause well she is successful for some reason after all.


She has written numerous novels at this point not only in her successful Stephanie Plum series, but also in the newer side series and also several books in the Metro series. This collection of work made me believe she would have much to say on the process of writing. I was right and she does it well. In this collection of answers from her official website she clearly showcases her process and how it can work for others coming into the field.

The best thing about this particular book is its simplistic nature. I was able to read the entire book in the matter of a couple of hours because she uses an easy-to-read q&a style. This choice makes it more accessible than other more in-depth writing books. It is one I would suggest for a beginner, like myself, that wishes to write. It will help you gain some confidence in yourself and understand that your first step in this process is to start writing!

Evanovich also recommends that you learn the basics of grammar before trying your hand at writing. She, however, clearly feels this can be done from research in books like "The Elements of Style." She speaks on this in her own journey of becoming a writer. She had to do the leg work required to become an author but it obviously is paying off nicely for her. This gem of a book showcases that you can do the same with putting in the energy she has and that nothing comes over night (she had to wait ten years)