An Introduction to Russia

Solovki : The Story of Russia Told Through Its Most Remarkable Islands
by Roy Robson

I think Josh and I discovered this book in Boston College's alumni magazine (which they continue to send to us though we haven't ever donated any money to them) because the author is an alum of BC. We read the magazine because we read everything and I'm glad we found this little book. I'm not sure how I would have discovered it otherwise.

Mr. Robson deftly explores the life and history of a group of Northern Islands from their selection as the site for a remote hermitage to the growth of one of Russia's most important monasteries, through the decline of the monastic life on the Islands, the establishment of a gulag and, finally, a recognition of the historical and spiritual value of the Islands. Though remote, the astounding importance of the monastery drew the islands into the center of Russian political and social history, so the book is able to speak not only of these small, cold Islands, but of all of Russia. Last, but not least, Mr. Robson's prose is graceful. The politics of monastic life were just as engaging as the depths of soul revealed by the holy lives of the saints and other monks who graced the islands.

Once you've read it, give me a call. I'm planning a pilgrimage to the Islands and I know you'll want to join me.

Reading Is the Answer to Everything, Like 42

The Read-Aloud Handbook (Read-Aloud Handbook)
by Jim Trelease

I read this book a few months ago and found it engaging and persuasive. Perhaps reading to your kids isn't the answer to everything, but it does seem to be an intrinsic good. There wasn't any doubt Josh and I would read to Caleb all the time, since we're both such bibliophiles ourselves, but it's nice to see confirmation of our beliefs in printed form. Seriously, Mr. Trelease presents intriguing studies to provide support for his thesis that reading aloud with a parent can make a profound and lasting difference in a child's life. Most importantly (from what I remember), is that a ritual of reading aloud together inspires a love of reading because being with Mom or Dad, cuddled up with a book, is such an overwhelmingly positive experience. A desire to learn and a confidence with the written word follow naturally.

One of the best features of this book is the list of suggested books, complete with summaries and recommended ages. I used it to create Caleb's enormous Wish List, most of which is too old for him, but I'm excited to read with him when he's ready. I also found many of the favorites of my youth in its pages, which brought fond memories that probably influenced how I feel about the book.