I have seen the Miss Read books on shelves for years (decades) but never read one until Constant Reader said how enjoyable they were. There are two series and in this case it's the Thrush Green series. Set in a small town, on the first day of May (that's when the small, traveling fair comes each year) Thrush Green is the introduction to a wonderful small town and it's quirky residents. If you want a delightful, gentle read, look no further.

If you think the headlines today are full scandals, think again! According to author Michael Farquhar, they have nothing on those of the past. Decide for yourself with A Treasury of Royal Scandals: the Shocking True Stories of History's Wickedest, Weirdest, Most Wanton Kings, Queens, Tsars, Popes, and Emperors. Not for the faint of heart, many of these were extremely cruel people. A few were funny, though, as strange rituals (and even one invasive surgery) were copied by those seeking favor. Diogenes would have given up. An index would have been nice.

Note: Thrush Green was a wonderful, refreshing, relaxing read after this! :-)

Reading Hermit With Dog