What I'm Reading | April + May

Echo | Pam Munoz Ryan

I listened to this on audiobook and would for sure recommend reading it that way. I loved the way that all the stories and characters, who could not seem more opposite, weaved together to one powerful moment. I enjoyed how I didn't see how the characters intertwined until the end of the novel. It's a mix of historical fiction and fantasy, which I know, those genres do not go together whatsoever. But trust me--it'll make sense when you read it. 

[goodreads excerpt]: Lost and alone in a forbidden forest, Otto meets three mysterious sisters and suddenly finds himself entwined in a puzzling quest involving a prophecy, a promise, and a harmonica.
Decades later, Friedrich in Germany, Mike in Pennsylvania, and Ivy in California each, in turn, become interwoven when the very same harmonica lands in their lives. All the children face daunting challenges: rescuing a father, protecting a brother, holding a family together. And ultimately, pulled by the invisible thread of destiny, their solo stories converge in an orchestral crescendo.

4.5/5 stars

The Magician's Nephew | C.S. Lewis

I've always been a fan of C.S. Lewis' writing, and lately I decided to start listening through the Chronicles of Narnia in chronological order. I've only read The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (forever ago) so I wanted to swing back and reread them all in order. The narrator is fantastic and truly brings the story to life. I love how much this fantasy story reflects the gospel in such intricate ways. I love Lewis' writing, the way he brings the characters to life and makes you so absorbed in the story as if you were there. The first book explains how Narnia was created and gives a backstory of the characters in the 2nd book. If you haven't read through the whole series, do it along with me. :) 

[goodreads excerpt]: NARNIA...where the woods are thick and cold, where Talking Beasts are called to life...a new world where the adventure begins. Digory and Polly meet and become friends one cold, wet summer in London. Their lives burst into adventure when Digory's Uncle Andrew, who thinks he is a magician, sends them hurtling to...somewhere else. They find their way to Narnia, newborn from the Lion's song, and encounter the evil sorceress Jadis before they finally return home. 

5/5 stars