"Blue Highways" & "River Horse" by William Least Heat Moon. The first book is his travels across America on the backroads, the 2nd, his travels across America by boat, from NYC to the Pacific Ocean. Both great glimpses of the US away from the cities.<BR><BR>

Tess, or anyone else: Regarding Queen Bees and Wannabees - would this be suitable reading for a 13 year old girl? My niece often calls me crying with girlfriend problems. I will read this book, but wonder if I could have her read it too.

HI! Anything by Clive Cussler is fantastic!

Maggi,<BR>I would read the book (Queen Bees) first and then see what you think. A reasonably mature 13 year old would benefit by reading the first part of the book for sure. I have a 13 year old boy and a ten year old girl--amazing the differences between boys and girls!!! I can't believe the Queen Bees are already rearing their ugly heads at 10 years old, but they are...

Thanks, Tess. Just got back from the bookstore and picked it up. Bingo! Also was able to pick up Girl With a Pearl Earring and A Walk in the Woods on the used book rack. Guess my weekend is booked.

Summer and beach conjure up images from an old work that is still so "modern" in terms of its themes: Kate Chopin's The Awakening.<BR><BR>Another interesting memoir on Chinese history would be Jan Wong's Red China's Blues (1996).

Maggi,<BR>I know I'll probably get zinged, flamed or snipped at by someone since this isn't travel related, but I'd love to hear your reaction after you finish the Queen Bees book. Everyone I know who's read it has VERY strong opinions on the Queen Bees in either their daughter's life or in their own growing-up years. My book discussion group is reading the book for our July get-together--should be a lively conversation!<BR><BR>Okay, to keep this thread on topic, "Watermelon" by Marian Keyes is a great summer read. I believe this is the same author of "Lucy Sullivan is Getting Married"--another fun summer book.

My husband read "Seabiscuit" and insisted I read it. I said, Who wants to read about a horse? I DID read it and it was fascinating and beautifully written, a wonderful social history of the 1920s, 30s and 40s. Sorry I can't remember the author's name.

"Naughty Night Nurse" by Ben Dover

Seabiscuit is by Laura Hillenbrand and is a fabulous book. I would also recommend Horse Heaven by Jane Smiley. I was not interested in reading this book AT ALL but it was picked for my book club and I LOVED it.

Nina,<BR> I think this is a great topic! Especially for travel inhibited girls like me! I have a one year old at home, so reading is like taking a mini vacation! Plus I devour books so fast I'm always looking for another good book. I highly recommend Gone With the Wind, it is sooooo much better than the movie!! I loved it! I also heard about Queen Bees on the Today show, so I think I'll try that one next. I can't wait for the Ya-Ya movie, didn't even know there was book, you can bet I'll be reading that one and the prequel. <BR>Here's another tip, why not re-read your favorite children's books? I've been doing that lately. They're short and bring back great memories, and your kids might want to read them after you! Some examples, The Little House series by Laura Ingalls Wilder, The Nancy Drew series, The Lion, the Witch , and the Wardrobe. Happy reading!

Since the above poster mentioned children's books, parents might want to get their kids started on the Lemony Snickett series of books. All about three orphaned children and all the horrible, unhappy and hideous things that happen to them. These books are a sort of cross between Edward Gorey and Harry Potter. Hilarious.

Here you go Cindy!