My July didn’t seem very hectic, but I was only able to read two books, so I’m not sure what happened. I think part of it is I was busy at work with training a new person, so I didn’t really read at all on my phone. My YTD is now 36, so still on track to finish 50 by the end of the year.
Both books I read count toward my Summer TBR Reading Challenge. One was nonfiction and one was fiction, both from my physical TBR, so I covered that goal at least.
What I Read
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
309 pages | Contemporary Fiction | 5 stars
I really enjoyed reading this book, more than I thought when I first heard it was set during the start of Covid. I enjoyed the back and forth between current time and reliving Lara’s past as an actress. I also enjoyed the different reactions from her three daughters, and the slow reveals of things she might have wanted to stay hidden.
Read my full review for Tom Lake
Big Friendship: How We Keep Each Other Close by Aminatou Sow and Ann Friedman
256 pages | Nonfiction-Relationships | 3 stars
I found this book a little interesting, but it mostly dealt with Aminatou and Ann’s friendship over the years, going from close friends to long-distance and the strain that can put on a friendship, as well as becoming business partners and that added strain. I had never heard of their podcast before, but I guess it makes sense they would’ve had to have some social media presence to publish a book together. Some of the advice provided I thought was good and could be applied to any friendship, but others seemed too specific to their situation, so I don’t think I got what I wanted out of reading it.
Favorite Book of the Month
No surprise, my favorite was Tom Lake by Ann Patchett since I gave it 5 stars. Hopefully August I’ll be able to get back to my normal reading speed so I have more options for a fave.
Catch Up on Past 2025 Monthly Wrap-Ups
What was your favorite in July?
Let me know in the comments or on social media!
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Notes from the Shelf 
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