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SOLERA DIAMOND VALLEY | AUGUST 2020 15 By Sharon Cates, Resident Several times I've heard people who are nearing retirement say that they were looking forward to reading some good books. If you weren't an avid reader in the past, these months of home quarantine may have steered you in that direction. If anything, this period of isolation has allowed us the opportunity to indulge in some favored tomes. Before the virus restricted our gatherings, SDV had a regularly active book club. A variety of books were recommended and voted on at the end of the year and each month we had discussions related to that month's chosen book. I thought it would be worthwhile to share some of those titles with residents who may be looking for an interesting read. Following is a random list of novels and authors the club has enjoyed along with a summary that might pique your interest. Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan. A historical novel based in WWII Italy about a young man who joins the underground and falls for a beautiful widow. It's a story of courage and resilience. A Gentleman from Moscow by Amor Towles. A story about the life of a Russian Count after the Russian Revolution. This book was listed as a best seller for many months. Leeway Cottage by Beth Gutcheon. A family saga set on a small island off the coast of Maine with an additional story line about Denmark during WWII. News of the World by Paulette Jiles. Not long after the Civil War, a former military officer travels in Northern Texas reading newspapers to the residents of small towns and charging ten cents a head. His journey gets more interesting when he's asked to accompany a 10-year old girl, previously an Indian captive, traveling home to relatives. This novel is in film production with Tom Hanks playing the lead. The movie is supposed to be released in December 2020. The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens. A young man accepts an assignment for his college English class to interview a dying Vietnam Vet who is also a convicted murderer. Soon, nothing in his life will ever be the same. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens. Through the eyes of an isolated child growing up in the desolate marshlands of North Carolina we share the secret wonders and dangers of her private world. The Dutch House by Ann Patchett. This book is a future club read; however, several members have read it and gave it four stars. It's currently a best seller listed novel. If your interest lies with nonfiction, try Erik Larson's books. He makes historical events interesting with his novel approach to writing. I have yet to read his latest book, The Splendid and the Vile, A Saga of Churchill, Family and Defiance during the Blitz, however, I thoroughly enjoyed his, The Garden of The Beasts (2012) and The Devil in the White City (2004). I hope these suggestions are helpful. Happy reading! So Many Books, Now Enough Time Quilters Come Through Again For Childhelp! SDV Quilters are an amazing group of ladies. In the past I have asked quilters to respond in different ways for Childhelp. They have donated their time making more than 50 quilts for children and NOW providing more than 140 face masks for adults and children. A special thank you to each and every one who has made the Childhelp Program a huge success. Your kindness and generosity is overwhelming. Sincerely, Ann Lontz, Committee Chairman Thank You