Book #13: A Life Observed, A Spiritual Biography of C. S. Lewis, by Devin Brown

This book reminded me why I like C. S. Lewis so much.  If you like Lewis, but haven't read him in a while, it might remind you as well.  It follows along Surprised by Joy for his early life, but the latter part of the book pulls together tidbits from Lewis many books and letters to give  us  a look at his life after his conversion.  I found several thought-provoking quotes, including this one:  after spending much time  puzzling over the Eucharist, Lewis realized that his understanding the mystery was not required:   "After all, Our Lord said 'Take and eat', not 'Take and understand'".  I love it!

Book #12: The Big Sky, by A. B. Guthrie, Jr.

The first of a trilogy, this book tells the story of Boone Caudill, 17-year-old young man running away from a drunkard, abusive father in Kentucky, who becomes a true mountain man.  Fascinating and unsentimental, this book gives a gritty look at life in the West in the 1830's.  Well worth the time.