Hi Reader,

April showers don't just bring May flowers, they bring May books! We're sprinting towards summer, and I have five things to share with you as a new month blossoms.

​Similar cat reading statues | Rifle Paper Co. classic books​

1 - April's Bestsellers

I compiled my unique list of the bestselling books of the month based on all the bestseller lists combined, and the #1 book is no surprise this time!

2 - April's Book Reviews

I read three five-star books in April and wrote a full book review of one of them on The Literary Lifestyle for you.

All my other monthly book reviews (nine total), including a rare two-star book and the books I DNF (did not finish) are wrapped up in an "Epilogues" post in our Patreon community for members only.

I do it this way because being behind a paywall allows me to be totally unfiltered. I don't like to post negative reviews publicly, but they are still honest and helpful to other readers. Many authors have Google alerts set up for their names and book titles, and they do see what I publish on The Literary Lifestyle, even if they don't actively seek it out.

(Become a Member with code GETFIFTYOFF for 50% off your first month; cancel anytime.)

3- May Reading List

​Jenna Bush Hager announced her May book club pick, and it's one for which I've heard consistently rave early reviews. I picked it in my Book of the Month box.

(Get your first Book of the Month Club book for $5.)

The remainder of the books I most anticipate in May are detailed in a "Prologues" post in our Patreon community. I do this so you can get your library holds in early, like me!

(Become a Member with code GETFIFTYOFF.)

4 - The Rory Gilmore Book Club's May Reading Prompt

This month, as part of our Rory Gilmore reading challenge, we are reading translated books from the Gilmore Girls book list. You'll find ten personal recommendations in the blog post.

I'm reading The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende. I'm 80 pages in and so far, so good!

I posted a much longer list of options with reviews, ease of reading, and original language, again, in our Patreon community.

Can you see the theme here? There's something free for everyone, and even more for those who want to support my work financially and be part of a more exclusive community.

(Become a Member with code GETFIFTYOFF.)

5 - Spring Reading Challenge for May

My Spring reading challenge prompt for May is books about mothers -- great for reading AND gifting this month.

​

Remember, it's a good day to read a book.

-Jules

Disclosure: This email contains affiliate links through which I may earn a commission on purchases made through clicks on my links, at no extra cost to you. The ads in this email also help contribute to my costs and keep this content free to the public. I appreciate your support.