07/05/2026
With a trip across the pond coming up soon, I am already pondering which books to bring along for those plane and train rides. This is a BIG decision that requires a lot of contemplation.
Here is the stack that I will be choosing from (only two are allowed to make the cut):
G O D D E S S E S : M Y S T E R I E S O F T H E F E M I N I N E D I V I N E | Joseph Campbell — I am using this book for research on a personal project I have procrastinating on. No more! Maybe.
S T R A N G E H O U S E S | Uketsu — If there is only thing I am a purebred sucker for, it’s a story with a building as a main element. This book pulled me in at the bookstore with its blueprint cover, and it taunts me from my bookshelf every time I walk past it. Could this trip be the time I finally cave? We’ll see.
L A D Y T R E M A I N E | Rachel Hochhauser — I grew up on classic Disney movies, and I was less interested in the princesses and more intrigued by the villains (except for Ariel because she was curious and rebellious). When I first heard about this Lady Tremaine reimagining I was sold immediately. Give me her backstory!
I W H O H A V E N E V E R K N O W N M E N | Jacqueline Harpman — As a mood reader, this is a smaller book that could easily fit into my purse should I be in the market for something a bit heavier content-wise. Do I want heavy while I am exploring a new country? Who knows? I don’t! Not yet at least.
O D E S S A | Gabrielle Sher — This one is DEFINITELY coming with me. A trusted local reader buddy of mine said his wife devoured this book with no regrets, so I will not be postponing my time with this one any longer. The moment I finish my current read (Sarafina by Philip Fracassi) I will be reaching for this one.
— Do you bring physical books with you on your travels, or do download watchable content like my husband? Or do you just sleep (my second choice)?
