The Chronicles of Narnia - C.S. Lewis

The recent release of "Prince Caspian" prompted me to re-read these childhood favorites. In fact I am certain that I have re-read them more than 40 times. Several of them are held together by packing tape and need to be held with care to prevent the last 20 pages from falling out.

Reading these as an adult is significantly different from reading them as a child. For one, as I child the blatant Christian bent of the books was completely lost on me. I just thought they were lovely stories about a magic world, which just happened to include a magical lion. How different they are from this perspective! I can't help but feel that they are at least somewhat racist too, particularly 'The Last Battle' and 'The Horse and His Boy'. I'm sure I will always love these stories that gave me such joy in my childhood, but I remain unconvinced that I will encourage my future children to read them.

Agnes Grey - Anne Bronte

I think I picked this up on the recommendation of Mimi Smartypants. As with most classical literature, I expected to have to slog through it. I think I finished it in two days. the writing style is clear and while the content is not fascinating, it is interesting enough. If you've ever had a horrible babysitting experience, this book is for you. In fact, it could be credited as the first "Adventures in Babysitting" or "Babysitter's Club" book.