THRIFTBOOKS: A NEW AND USED BOOK RESOURCE

If you love design books (or really any kind of book), today's post is for you. I want to tell you about a book source that I discovered a few years back. It's called Thriftbooks. I've ordered from them multiple times over the years, and saved myself some money.

I haven't bought any new books from them, but I have bought several used books because I have no problems buying second-hand. I usually check this source first when I come across an interior design book I'm interested in. I love design books for both inspiration and decorating. When you find a book you're interested in, the site will tell you what condition the used book is in. The price is usually so good, it is worth the risk to trust the condition description. I've been pleased with what I've ordered. 

My latest purchase from Thriftbooks is an old book (1991) that I saw on a table in Mandy Eno's home. She's one of my favorite people to follow on Instagram. Her home is beautiful and authentic, collected and welcoming. Follow her here, if you don't already. She has multiple gallery walls in her home, and they are all so good! 

Hoping for some wall inspiration, I looked up this book Decorating with Pictures. 

Here are a few of my favorite gallery walls from the book.

So now, the next time you are hunting for an old book or even a new book, remember this source. Check Thriftbooks first. They may have what you're looking for, and they will definitely save you money.  :-)

MY LATEST READS

Good Tuesday to you, friends!

Today I'm sharing four books I've been able to squeeze in a midst two weddings, lots of wedding parties, work, and Covid. They were four extremely different novels. As I started each of them, I knew almost nothing of their story lines. I tend to pick and read books that repeatedly show up on other peoples' list. I'm also in a group on Facebook called Tuscaloosa Page Turners. I've gotten lots of suggestions from it. Ordinary Grace came from that group. I'll start there.

Ordinary Grace - William Kent Krueger - This one is first because it was my favorite of the four. It pushed all the right buttons for me. The coming-of-age story set in the summer of 1961, introduces us to a family living the small-town life in New Bremen, Minnesota. Everyone knows everyone, and everyone is tied together by past experiences or relationships. The town suffers several earth-shaking losses over the course of the summer. It's the summer of multiple murders. These deaths disrupt the lives of all the main characters, but especially Frank. We see the impact this summer has on Frank even some forty years later as he is the narrator. Frank's family, unfortunately, will not be spared from tragedy. Frank's father is a Methodist pastor, his mom and sister are both musical talents, and he has a younger brother who surprised me in the end. The power of family, forgiveness, second chances, and the gift of ordinary grace made this one of the best things I've read lately. 

Between Two Kingdoms - Suleika Jaouad - This one was like nothing I had read before. "A Memoir of a Life Interrupted." Suleika Jaouad is a twenty-two year old writer who has her entire life in front of her. The only thing holding her back is an intense itch that she nor the doctors can figure out. She's met a great guy, has a plan, moves to Paris to put it into action, and then she gets the diagnosis of leukemia. The novel is her cancer journey and her life journey, filled with ups and downs, and love and loss. While in treatment for the cancer, she begins chronicling her story for the the New York Times. "Life, Interrupted." She meets so many unique and special people along the way. Because of her article, people from all over write to her. When her condition improves, and she is able, she treks across the country to meet some of the people her story has impacted. While the book was not full of rainbows and sunshine, I still enjoyed it immensely. So much in fact, that it made me stop and really think about what makes a book "good" to me. I've decided when I feel, not just relate to, but when I can actually feel some of what the character feels and what the character is going through, when I'm slightly changed thanks to a main character, to me, that's it. These first two books did just that. 

The Bone Jar - S W Kane - Okay, to be fair, I was reading this book at the end of the summer when I was in the throws of the final stages of planning my daughter's wedding. I can't give this one high ratings. It wasn't bad, and I probably would have liked it better if I wasn't reading it at night, half asleep. The setting is a run down asylum. The body of an older women turns up in one of the rooms of the abandoned asylum, and the main character Detective Lew Kirby goes to work. I actually liked him. The character who kept me engaged is a former, somewhat odd employee who lives on the grounds of the asylum. He knows much more than he lets on during the investigation. The book has many twists and many characters and wraps up nicely. I should probably read it again and give it another chance. It has good reviews! But for me it was just a three out of five stars. 

Verity - Colleen Hoover - This one caught me a little off guard. Tons of people were talking about it and everyone seems to love Colleen Hoover books. So without checking into it much, I downloaded it. The book has one of the best "hooks" I can remember. It starts with the main character, a writer, witnessing a horrible accident on her way to a meeting. After accepting an unusual, unconventional writing job, Lowen Ashleigh discovers the family she's working for is living in a disturbing situation. Lowen becomes involved in all aspects of the family's life, and eventually uncovers truths that are hard for her to make sense of. I can't say that I loved the book, but it was hard to put down. The story line was fabulous, just not what I usually reach for when picking my next book. If you enjoy a thriller, this one should probably be on your list. But FYI, if it were a movie, it would probably be between a high PG-13 and low R rating. 

Right now I'm in the middle of The Midnight Library. So far I love it. 

Your turn! What are you all reading? Leave me a list below in the "comment" section. :-)

WHAT'S ON MY COFFEE TABLE

One of the gift requests I received this year was coffee table books. They make a wonderful Christmas gift for anyone, but especially newly-weds who aren't quite ready to invest in books when they probably have tons of other just-starting-out needs. Plus, they can be pricey. Because I absolutely love a coffee table full of books, I thought I would share with you what's usually on my coffee table and some of my favorite design books.

I'm always on the look out for decorating books when I'm thrifting, especially at consignment shops. Another trick I've learned is to put a book in my Amazon cart, wait a while, and watch for the price to go down. I almost never buy a new release, unless I just can't help myself. :-)  There is also a site called Thriftbooks that I recently came across that sells used books, and it's a really good resource. I've ordered a couple of things from them over the past year. I haven't ordered from this site, AbeBooks, but while doing a little research for this post, it was recommended a few times as well. 

One of my favorite books on my table is A Passion for Blue and White. It was a gift from my daughter-in-law given to me when she and my son were dating. It is perfect for the blue and white lover. 

My most recently purchased book that I'm calling my birthday gift to myself is The Well-Loved House. This one is filled with pages and pages of ideas and inspiration. I could drink coffee and look at this one all day -- in my flannel pajamas, of course. It's currently on my night stand. 

And here are a few more that I've picked up over the years that I go back to all the time for inpsiration. Remember to also check for design books/coffee table books at home stores like HomeGoods and T J Maxx. They are usually discounted, especially if the book is older. I've even found design books at deep discount stores like Ollie's. The links to these books will take you to Amazon, and they should make it to to you by Christmas if you still need a gift for someone who loves home decorating. 

BEAUTIFUL  //  MORE BEAUTIFUL

FEELS LIKE HOME  //  HABITAT

A PLACE TO CALL HOME  //  A TIME TO PLANT

ELEMENTS OF STYLE  //  ELEMENTS OF FAMILY STYLE

Here are all the links in one spot for you:

A PASSION FOR BLUE AND WHITE  //  THE WELL-LOVED HOUSE  

BEAUTIFUL  //  MORE BEAUTIFUL

FEELS LIKE HOME  //  HABITAT

A PLACE TO CALL HOME  //  A TIME TO PLANT

ELEMENTS OF STYLE  //  ELEMENTS OF FAMILY STYLE

(affiliate links)  

MY SUMMER READING LIST

I've been reading a good bit more than usual thanks to all this time at home, and surprisingly, I'm 4/4 on good book selections. I'm sharing those selections with you today. I really enjoyed all of these books, and it's kind of hard to pick a favorite. I'm one of those people who really doesn't like to watch a movie trailer because I feel like they give too much of the story away. I've tried to keep that in mind while peaking your interest in what I've read this summer.

A Woman Is No Man by Etaf Rum - I really didn't know what to expect from this book. I just knew a lot of people were talking about it, so I read a small amount about the plot and bought it. It is set in America and written by an Palestinian-American. It is the debut novel of Etaf Rum. It's a close look into the lives of Arab women, their violent culture, and the abuse they at times endure. The story is woven really well. It follows the lives of several women and their arranged marriages, and the daughters of these women who decide they prefer another way of life, which in turn brings great conflict into the family. It seems strange to say I enjoyed this book, but I did. It's not a feel good book; it was sad, but I appreciate the insight I gained about the culture.

The Great Alone by Kristen Hannah - If you forced me to pick a favorite of these four, it would definitely be this one. The story doesn't start in Alaska, but pretty early on in the book, the setting becomes Alaska. About half way in I decided I was ready to get on a plane and go; I really want to see it one day now.  The story takes place in the seventies, post Vietnam. The book is a story of survival. But not just the survival of people, but also of ideals, communities, families, relationships, and at some points, sanity. The family that we follow has a father, mother, and daughter. The dad was in the war, and much of the conflict has to do with his inability to leave it behind. There is also a deeply moving love story between the daughter and the person she meets after the move to Alaska. The book reminded me how the characteristics of love create bonds that are almost impossible to break. Okay, I better stop there.

In an Instant by Suzanne Redfearn - This book I stumbled on from the Amazon Prime free reading list that comes out each month. I had not heard of it, but it sounded intriguing. It chronicles a trip that a family of five with a special needs son and two daughters takes with another family of friends. While on the trip, an event transpires that threatens their lives. It's definitely a character study of people who are put into situations beyond their control, and we see how danger affects everyone so differently. Some relationships are destroyed, others are restored. Many of the characters are teenagers, and I've been teaching teens for 23 years. I really enjoyed this one.

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides - I was nervous about reading this one because, well, I'm a chicken. I don't want to be scared. But I ended up being pleasantly surprised and only a little scared. I don't think I've read a "psychological thriller" in a really long time. Although, I've taught a few things that might fall into that category. The characters in this book were really well-developed in my opinion, and I felt like I understood why they were the way they were. One of the main characters, the silent patient, is arrested for killing her husband. But why is she silent? Multiple people want to figure it out. And finally, there is a fabulous twist in the story! This one was hard to put down. I stayed up late several nights.

Okay. Your turn. What are you all reading?
Leave a comment below!

See a few other book suggestions here and here.

A SUNDAY THOUGHT

Today I'm sharing the daily devotional book that I've been using off and on for the past several months. I say "off and on" because some days I'm using an app on my phone, and other days I may not read anything. I do try to have a time of reflection most days, but it doesn't always happen.

I try to keep my eyes and ears open for a good devotional book, and thanks to Instagram, I was familiar with Melanie Shankle and this book she had written a few years back. You can follow her here. I came across this one at a local discount store and snatched it up.

The devotions are easy to read and understand, and only take a few minutes a day. She is an insightful, lighthearted, and honest writer. She's married with one daughter and ties her thoughts to everyday life. Don't you love people who keep it real?

If you've been around WBL for a while, then you know that back in the fall we replaced fifteen-year-old furniture in our living room. The kids are gone, and we don't have pets, so I did it; I ordered white couches (slightly off-white is probably more accurate). When I came across this title, I chuckled out loud, like really LOLed. I don't exactly feel like she did about her white couch purchase, but there are a few similarities.

If you're in the market for something to help you spend a few minutes in thought and prayer each day, I would definitely consider this one.

Everyday Holy

Enjoy your day,
Kathryn

A DECORATING BOOK GIVEAWAY

Almost every coffee table styled with books on Instagram or Pinterest, has Erin Gates' decorating book Elements of Style somewhere in one of the stacks. The pretty black and white stripes of the binding make it a standout.

Our living room

Erin recently did a tour of her home on IG stories. It was stunning! I loved her designing and styling, and the way she combined things to create a somewhat dressy, yet comfortable home.

You can watch the tour for yourself here on Youtube.

After watching the tour and loving her home so, so much, I decided to add her book to my slowly growing collection of decorating/coffee table books. But here's the thing: somehow I managed to order not one, but three books! I know, I know. Don't ask me how it happened. I genuinely have no idea. When I opened the Amazon box, and the books just kept coming. The plan was to just send them back, but my husband--of all people--said, "You could do a giveaway."

So, guess what? I'm doing a giveaway.

I'm giving away the two extra books I accidently ordered. Head over to my Instagram account (@woodbanklane), and look for this photo. All you have to do is follow @woodbanklane, like the post, and tag a few friends. What could be easier?! Two winners will be chosen at random next week.

Good luck!
Kathryn

BOOKS WE'RE READING

I've read a few books lately that I have absolutely loved, the kind you hope will never end. I'm sharing those with you today, but I also thought it would be fun to ask some people in my circle what they have been reading. Here is our list.

The first few are what I've read and enjoyed.

WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING:  I read this one in April while at the state tennis tournament with my son. Cannot say enough about how much I enjoyed it. Perfect vacation read.

BEFORE WE WERE YOURS:  A complete change of subject matter and pulled at my heart strings in a totally different way, but I did enjoy it almost as much.

LITTLE FIRES EVERYWHERE: And this one is what I've just started. It felt a little slow to get going to me, but I'm now about 3, maybe 4, chapters in and I'm enjoying it.

THE SUMMER I MET JACK: I read this one last year, but I wanted to make sure you didn't miss it. If you like following the Kennedy's, you'll enjoy it.

TIGER WOODS:  My dad recently read Tiger's story and passed it on to my husband. They say it is eye-opening.

Here are a few picks from my daughter Blair.

ONE DAY IN DECEMBER: Reese Witherspoon also liked this one. :)

AND THEN THERE WERE NONE: This book was one of her favorites, and at one point, I think it was a summer reading book at my high school.

THE ENERGY BUS: To quote her, "This book is a self-help book. By the time you get done reading it, you feel like you can conquer the world. It's about if you have positive thoughts, feelings, and reactions to everything in your life, you will get positivity back in return."

BEHIND CLOSED DOORS: In this book, things looks perfect, but looks can be deceiving. Dark secrets abound.

THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN: I read this one too, and it was great. Did you see the movie when it came out? It wasn't very good in my opinion.

THE WOMAN IN CABIN 10: I remember my collegue Mrs. Farabee loving this book also.

I gave WHISKEY IN A TEACUP to my son's girlfriend Millie for her birthday. She loved it.

1984: My mother-in-law recently read this one. Did you have to read it in school? It scared me to death in high school-with good reason. Now Big Brother has come to pass.

THIRD DEGREE:  This action in this book takes place in one day and the author is from Mississippi.  My in-laws are also from Mississippi and this was my father-in-law's pick from what he's read lately.

Okay, that's our list. What are you reading? Click on "comments" and let us know.

Kathryn

Woodbank Lane recieves commisions for purchases made through links on this page. 

SECOND-HAND BOOKS

I'm always looking for blue and white vessels and milk glass when I'm roaming a thrift store, but recently I added something new to my list of things to be on the lookout for: decorating books and books to decorate with. They usually cost next to nothing, and I've been lucky to find some that are in excellent shape. 

I also took a chance on Amazon and found some good prices on used books there as well. Here are the three used books I've purchased lately that inspired this post. I ordered Domino from Amazon for less than $8, and I found A Time to Plant by decorator James Farmer (one of my favorites) and the cute little book Mini Makeovers at a local consignment store.

Mini Makeovers is a little gem full of good takeaways, pretty vignettes, and room ideas. It's also full of hints and DIY projects. Here are a few.

One other used book I picked up "for my son" is this waterfowl book. It is filled with gorgeous images and would also be a good source for pictures to create a gallery wall full of birds in a boy's room or a guest room.

Now, for displaying the books other than the coffee table.

Stack them in a chair or on an accent stool. Mine are currently in an antique chair my mom gave me years ago topped with a small bowl (also thrifted).

Here are a few other pretty pictures and ideas for using, stacking and displaying books. I love the plant on this stack. Notice Sherry Hart and I have a book in common in our stacks. :)

From Sherry Hart (@sherryhdesigns)

Image: Laurey W. Glenn, via Pinterest

Design Sponge

Nora Murphy Country House

Instagram: @ourhomelyhaven

The Spruce via Pinterest

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you found something to take with you.

Kathryn

BOOK TALK

So, I finally made it to the last page of what seemed like the never-ending-book (What Alice Forgot). I mentioned it, what seems like now, forever ago. It took me much longer to finish up than anticipated. Granted, I have little time for reading during the school year, but almost never has it taken me the entire year to read something! Now, based on that, you can more than likely guess how I felt about it.

The story was not a bad one--the concept was actually a good idea--but it took entirely too long to make its point.

The main character, a mom and wife pulled in oodles of different directions, saddled with a bundle of daily responsibilities, falls and bumps her head in exercise class. When she wakes up, ten years of her life is missing from her memory. As we begin to get to know Alice, Alice is getting to know herself all over again as well. Her beloved husband is barely speaking to her which has her beside herself. Their journey back to each other and their children is the bulk of the plot. That part of the story is attention-keeping and fun. The parts I found distracting were the stories involving the extras. I felt like too much time was given to, what I call, the sub-stories. The sub-stories elongated the book. The premise of losing ten years did grab my attention, but it just couldn't keep it.

On a happier note, I was pleased with the ending.

Now this book...

I'm only on Chapter 3 and I am hooked already. :-)

I hope you'll forgive my sporadic postings of late. The back-to-school crazy has started around here. Hopefully, we'll be back in the swing of routines and schedules soon!

Kathryn

A book suggestion...

So, this is what's on my bedside table right now.

I wish I had nothing better to do than pour a ridiculously sized cup of coffee, put on my pajamas, hunker down under the covers, and read it. But, then again, I should probably pace myself. It's one of those books that will come to an end entirely too soon.

If you are a woman, friend, mother, daughter, wife, sister, cousin, neighbor - you get the picture - if you are breathing, you will enjoy this! I ordered mine from Amazon.

Are you familiar with Jen Hatmaker? Get familiar with her here and read her latest blog post here.

By the way, I'm getting my ingredients ready for a fabulous fall recipe. I'll be trying it for the first time when I share it with you. :-) It was given to me by a student seventeen years ago. Can't wait!

Kathryn

My summer reading list...

It's sometimes hard for me to squeeze a book into my schedule during the school year, and now, after adding "finish a blog post" to my to-do list, it may be even harder. But during June and July, when I'm recharging my teacher batteries, I manage to find a little leisure time to read while enjoying the sun.

I've read two so far, and I'm working on a third:

The Husband's Secret

The Girl on the Train

And I'm working on ...

What Alice Forgot

I really wasn't knocked out by The Husband's Secret. The story line kept my attention and the characters were believable, but it wasn't one of those books that made me sad when it ended. Three story lines eventually cross into one, and the husband's secret is predictable. 

However, The Girl on the Train I did enjoy. It was a page turner and less predictable - a quick, easy summer read. The book is filled with discontented characters in London going about their daily lives. The main character, the girl, is an alcoholic who ventures out each day by train, keenly observing the lives of others taking place outside of the train windows. She manages to insert herself where she doesn't belong to disclose her observations. This puts her in harms' way. Although I wasn't crazy about the ending, I did like it.

I've just starting What Alice Forgot, so I'll comment on that later. I'm on Chapter 5, and so far I'm entertained and looking forward to picking it back up. 

Have you all read any of these? If so, comment below and share your thoughts. I'd love to hear from you!

Kathryn