What I’m Reading Right Now: A Peek Into My Bookshelf

Reading has always been a way for me to escape, learn, and grow, and lately, my reading list has been more eclectic than ever! From children’s classics to deep dives into research methods, my current book stack covers a wide range of topics and genres. Here’s a look at what I’m reading right now and why each of these books is capturing my attention.

1. From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg

This charming children’s classic is a delightful trip down memory lane. It’s the story of two kids who run away to the Metropolitan Museum of Art and find themselves caught up in a mystery. I’ve loved revisiting it—there’s something timeless about the adventure and cleverness in this story. It also reminds me of how important curiosity is, both in learning and in life. It’s a great read to share with my children, and I’m excited to introduce them to this imaginative world. We are listening to this together as an audiobook. A great option for homeschool moms on the go! 

2. The Underground Girls of Kabul by Jenny Nordberg

This book is a fascinating and eye-opening account of how some girls in Afghanistan live as boys due to cultural pressures. Jenny Nordberg’s exploration of gender and survival in a patriarchal society is both heartbreaking and deeply thought-provoking. It’s shedding light on a world that’s vastly different from mine, yet the strength and resilience of these girls resonate universally. I’ve found this to be an important read, especially as a mother raising daughters—I’m reminded of how precious our freedoms are and how courage takes many forms. My sister recommended this book to me and said she has read it several times! 

3. Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches by John W. Creswell & J. David Creswell

This one’s definitely on the academic side, but it’s been incredibly useful as I think about how to incorporate more research-based learning in our homeschool. Understanding the different methodologies—whether qualitative, quantitative, or mixed—is key to teaching my children how to gather, analyze, and interpret information effectively. It’s helping me refine how we approach projects, experiments, and even everyday problem-solving, making this a valuable tool in both my personal and homeschooling journey. This book was not one I would usually gravitate towards but as I work on my masters degree, it is a must! 

4. Belles on Their Toes by Frank B. Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey

The sequel to Cheaper by the Dozen, Belles on Their Toes continues the story of the Gilbreth family after the passing of their father. I’ve found this book to be both humorous and heartwarming, as it follows a large, resourceful family navigating life’s challenges. As a homeschooling mom, I’m drawn to stories of big families and how they manage the chaos of everyday life, and this book offers plenty of laughs and inspiration in that regard. My kids and I are reading this together and will watch the movie by the same name as soon as we are done! 

5. Dune by Frank Herbert

Dune is an epic classic I’ve been meaning to read for a long time, and I’m finally diving in! The world-building, the political intrigue, and the themes of power, survival, and destiny are just as engaging as I’d heard. It’s a complex and thought-provoking read that’s perfect for when I want to be immersed in a rich, imaginative universe. I can already tell why this is considered one of the greatest sci-fi novels of all time—it’s challenging me to think about big questions regarding humanity and leadership. My husband recommended this book and I want to finish it before watching the movie by the same name. 

6. War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy

This is my literary challenge of the year! War and Peace is as much about philosophy, human nature, and society as it is about war and politics. While it’s a hefty read, Tolstoy’s ability to weave together the lives of so many characters in such a deep and meaningful way makes it worth the effort. I’m taking it slow and savoring the historical richness and the intricate details of life in Napoleonic Russia. It’s definitely a marathon read, but I’m enjoying the journey through Tolstoy’s expansive narrative. My sister and I are in a race to see who can finish this one first! 

Each of these books brings something different to the table, whether it’s deepening my understanding of history, culture, or personal growth, or simply providing an escape into a new world. If you’ve read any of these, I’d love to hear your thoughts, and if you’re looking for your next book, maybe one of these will catch your eye!

Connect with me on Instagram at @ministry.of.mothering for daily encouragement, easy recipes, and support. We’re all in this together!

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