400

400 is a significant number. Even if it were only grains of sand, you would certainly notice if that was in your sock. And I have now read over 400 books this year. My updated goal for the year is 500 even though it seems I am on track for many more than that. But as I look at other things I am committed to for the fall season 500 is within the arena of probable. Sometimes I don't know how it is possible that I have read so much this year and still done all of the other things I have done (hundreds of paintings, over one hundred Instagram posts, hundreds of miles of walking), but then I think about things I haven't done (commuted to work, gone to the movies). As with any noteworthy goal, choice is a primary factor. I choose to read six days a week. Sometimes I would rather mindlessly scroll, or binge-watch a show, but most of the time remaining focused on getting to achieve this long held dream of reading 365 books in a year is enough enticement to continue reading, in addition to the joy of reading and delighting in stories. Now that I have passed the 365 goal it is intriguing enough to see just how many books I will get to read this year. Here are some of the best books (of the last 100) that I have read.

Fiction:
Chain-Gang All Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah An excellent "fiction" reflecting on the prison industrial complex and live entertainment. Lots to consider. 
The Measure by Nikki Erlick How would your life change if you knew when it would end? 
The Overstory by Richard Powers A multi-perspective narrative concerning the interconnected nature of trees (and humans). 
Tress of the Emerald Sea by Brandon Sanderson A delightful submersive fantasy. The total world construction is what places this among my past 100 favorites. 

Non-Fiction:
A Stone is Most Precious Where it Belongs by Gulchehra Hoja A poignant personal perspective on a Uyghurs experience as a political refugee. 
Soil: The Story of a Black Mother's Garden by Camille T. Dungy A beautiful reflection on community and self-sustaining practice. 
The People's Hospital: Hope and Peril in American Medicine by Ricardo Nulia A considered case study by a doctor reflecting on insurance as a barrier to care in the experiences of 5 patients. 
New Rules Next Week: Corita Kent's Legacy through the Eyes of Twenty Artists and Writers An encouraging read for artists and educators. 


Friends:
Doorway to Artistry by Esther Lightcap Meek A philosophical exploration of creativity presented as an extended metaphor on hospitality. 

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