American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins

American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


It's difficult to put into words how I feel about this book, so I'll start with two cheesy statements--first, believe the hype! It's being called the Most Anticipated Book of 2020, and that is so well deserved. Second, you can judge this book by its cover. Honestly, I think this is the most beautiful cover I've ever seen, and the story inside is equally beautiful. And harrowing, and heartbreaking, and hopeful, and ever-so-timely. It's about a mother and her eight-year-old son who escape to the United States after 16 members of their family are murdered by a cartel. The book details their treacherous journey and helps you understand the utter desperation of people who will risk that trip because their lives at home are even more dangerous. The author's note at the end was also especially poignant. I wish there was a way to make every American read this book. It's so important. Congratulations to Jeanine Cummins for such a wonderful accomplishment.

This is Going to Hurt by Adam Kay

This is Going to Hurt: Secret Diaries of a Junior Doctor by Adam Kay

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


This book contains the journal entries of a British junior doctor's six-year career in England. It was interesting to read his perspective on England's National Health Service as compared to the American system. Adam Kay worked as an OB/GYN and his writings about all that happens (or could happen) during childbirth confirmed for me that my decision to not have kids was the right one (for me). This book also confirmed that I could never, ever, be doctor. The book is at turns funny, heartbreaking, educational, and cringe-inducing, and I enjoyed it.