October Books

The good news is that I did better with books in October than I did in September!  

So here's what I managed to read....

The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


I wanted to like this book more than I did. I listened to the audiobook on Audible, and I'm glad that I listened to the story instead of reading it. (Although, it was over 20 hours long...)

Overall, I liked the story, but I felt that the story went on and on, and sometimes the changes in point of view were confusing. To me, this was mostly because I sometimes forgot what was going on with the other characters by the time the story returned to them.

In the end, after so much build up, things resolve so quickly. I didn't feel that the ending was as satisfying as it could have been after A LONG story leading me there.

Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


I am officially hooked! I love the concept of time travel, and this novel does not disappoint. I was captivated by Claire's story, and I didn't want to stop reading! There were moments of this book that moved me to tears, as well. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!


Teaching Gifted Kids in Today's Classroom: Strategies and Techniques Every Teacher Can Use by Susan Winebrenner

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This book has been a tremendous help for helping me to understand options for teaching gifted (and advanced) students in my own classroom. While it is SO important to help our struggling students to grow, catch up, and fill in missing pieces of knowledge, gifted and advanced students are often ignored. Because of this, they do not grow to their full potential, nor do they make any real progress or truly learn.

I have already begun implementing some techniques in my classroom, and I will continue to add more. I want these students to be challenged and to have meaningful learning just as much as the students who need more assistance.

This book was the text for a class I'm taking through Learner's Edge.  I really needed to get it finished this month.  I was looking over my work list the other day, and it turns out they recommend you return your work a month before it's due.  I'm quite behind schedule.  Whoops.

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The even better news is that I met my Goodreads Reading Challenge goal for the year!  I set a goal for myself to read 30 books this year, and by finishing these last two books, I have hit my goal right on the nose!  There are still two months left to go, and I have MANY more books on my "to read" list.  My goal for next year will be based on how many books I actually finish this year.  Subscribing to Audible has been a HUGE factor in allowing me to read with limited time!  I can listen at the gym, on my commute, and when I'm working around the house.  I highly recommend using Audible if you've got a lot going on!  :)

What did you read this month?

Also, don't forget to link up with Kristin and I on Friday, November 6th to reveal your Great Pumpkin Swap Packages!!