Before I head off to a summer of Maine and Italy (!!), I'd better drop a few lines on my spring reading. The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert I love historical novels, and I love feminist novels. Gilbert's prose is marvelous, and the story is fun fun fun.

Cooked by Michael Pollan No one writes like Pollan. I learned an astonishing amount from this book, as usual. And I was inspired to roast a a pork butt! Me!! The person who never cooked.

All That Is by James Salter Beautiful writing. Some of the best. But far too much of this book was the same, tired "middle-aged man gets laid" story.

Half the Kingdom by Lore Segal I have never read such an astonishing book about old age. It's remarkable. This woman is one of the best writers I've ever had the privilege of reading.

The Liars Gospel by Naomi Alderman I would never have expected to love a book about Jesus. I find the subject tiresome in the extreme. But this book is a revelation (?!!). I absolutely loved it.

The End of the Point by Elizabeth Graver This lovely beautifully, written novel is the best possible summer read (for those of us who demand excellent prose, even in the summer).

& Sons by David Gilbert A wonderful novel that I loved almost to the end. Then I suddenly lost interest in the travails of rich New Yorkers. The wild twist kept me excited, though.

Life After Life by Kate Atkinson Yeah, I read this again. Because it's FUCKING AWESOME.

The Starboard Sea by Amber Dermont In the great tradition of boarding school novels. Plus sailing!

The Sense of an Ending by Julian Barnes This one didn't do much for me.

Last Friends by Jane Gardam Lord how I love Jane Gardam. This book reminds me of the work of Lore Segal. They are both fabulous and you should read them NOW.

Home by Toni Morrison A nearly-perfect short novel.

Shakespeare's Kitchen by Lore Segal Just as marvelous as her new novel.

The Year of Learning Dangerously by Quinn Cummings Hilarious and interesting as I embark on my new homeschooling adventure.