I’m honored that you’re pausing in your busy holiday preparations to visit the Word Nerd. If you’re looking for something good to read after the holiday stress has passed, you’ve come to the right place. (And, can you pass the tape? I’ve still got loads of presents to wrap.)
Thanks to everyone who contributed their favorite books of 2013 to my giveaway. With your help, we’ve generated an interesting and eclectic reading list for 2014. I’m including links to Goodreads; click each title to find synopses, reviews, and information for how to get each book.
Favorite Books of 2013
Remember, these were books read by word nerds in 2013, not necessarily published in 2013.
I’m back from Maui for another round of Wondrous Words Wednesday. (Can I just say that the shift from sunshine to ice has been difficult?) Visit Kathy at Bermudaonion.net for more interesting words.
My word comes from the very helpful guide-book Maui Revealed by Andrew Doughty. Some reviewers on Goodreads complain about Doughty’s sarcasm, and suggest it doesn’t align with the “Aloha” spirit. However, my family, including my teen and tween, enjoyed the humor in his descriptions. For example, under “South Maui Best Bets”:
Best Example of What Should Be a Misplaced Decimal Point… but isn’t- $350 to use a cabana for One Day at the Grand Wailea.
Now, on to the Word Nerd Word, taken from Doughty’s description of Venus Pool in Kipahulu.
There you’ll find numerous places that people jump from, deep water in several spots, the pounding ocean just on the other side of the gravel and some perfect areas on the mountain side from which to sit and cogitate.
Cogitate \’kä-jə-tāt\ verb, from Latin cogitare to think, from co + agitare to drive; to ponder or meditate deeply or intently
I figured from the word “cognition” that this had something to do with thinking.
Word Nerd Workout
Think of some synonyms for cogitate and share them below. Also, where is your favorite spot to cogitate? Here’s one of mine:
Pa’iloa Beach (black sand) at Wai’anapanapa State Park
Do you read special holiday books at this time of year? Do you need some suggestions?
I finally read The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, and I wish I had found it sooner. What a great read-aloud for the kids, or even adults.
Last December, a friend gave me Skipping Christmas as a fun read for a stressful, busy time. It was light-hearted, but with a good message. Who knew that John Grisham did humor?
Click on the titles above to read my full reviews.
What books can you recommend for holiday reading?
Favorite Things Giveaway
Don’t forget to leave a comment with your favorite book from 2013. You could win a book or B&N gift card. Find all the details at the Giveaway Announcement
Thanks for stopping by! I’ll be back from vacation next week.
Wondrous Words Wednesday this week has a twist; I’m sharing some words from one of my favorite books, The Fellowship of the Ring, by J.R.R. Tolkien.
“I wish it need not have happened in my time,” said Frodo.
“So do I,” said Gandalf, “and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”
What wonderful and wise words, from a wizard, of course.
Don’t forget to leave a comment with your favorite book from 2013- you could win a book or B &N gift card. See the Giveaway Announcement for details.
Welcome to 2014 and the first Wondrous Words Wednesday of the New Year! I’m glad you’ve come by to stimulate your brain and start the year off right!
