What's On Your Book Shelf?

After doing a bit of yard work yesterday, I found myself in need of a little rejuvenation.

(And by the way, my rose bushes are blooming beautifully!) I only wish I had planted them in previous years.
Anyhow...
I decided to take a quick trip to a local "quality" thrift store in my area; for me it's relaxing. And for those who may be turning up their nose at the thought, let me tell you this...
I kid you not---I have the most extensive book collection. It almost rivals that of a real library! And the cool thing is that when I score my reads at the thrift store, I get rock-bottom prices. Spending less means I can buy more. And that's just plain smart in my book!

For example, I bought The Purpose Driven Life, Dr. Phil's Relationship Rescue, Gordon Parks's poetry and photography book, and several of the "Don't Sweat the Small Stuff" titles for less than 10 bucks!

And I'm talking about in excellent condition, some even brand spankin' new, folks.

A point of reference...
Since childhood, I've always loved to read. I thank my mom to this day for cultivating a love of literature and learning, which has definitely served me well over the years--in college and in my career.

In fact, as an avid reader, it's not unusual to find me reading and thumbing through multiple books at the same time, depending upon my mood.

Here's this week's round-up of what I'm reading and what I recommend:

***Don't Sweat the Small Stuff (for women)---It must have been by divine intervention that I happened upon this treasure. Since I'm already a big fan of the series, I was drawn immediately to this title written by Kristine Carlson, the wife of best-selling author Richard Carlson. Wow, what an "I" opener! If I were stuck on a desert, and could only have 2 or 3 books, I'd choose this one. But then again, I guess that most of the advice would be inapplicable out there on that desert! Anyhow, it's a must read for moving forward with greater peace and purpose for women. It's the best advice available in book form for females (that I've come across). Here are a few chapters to check out: Don't fight fire with fire; Stop comparing yourself to the media measuring stick; Don't get over committee-D.
I must say that I liked it even a little better than "Simple Abundance", which is an awesome read!

***By the Waters (A Collection of Prayers for Everyday)---by Ellyn Sanna---The writing is eloquent and the photos are scenic and soothing. This read allows us to look at the connection between quenching our physical and spiritual thirst so that we may live in balance, beauty, and in awareness of our daily blessings. The nice thing too is that it doesn't have chapters so you can approach it in any order you'd like. It's also a great gift to give to a friend or loved one.

***Creating Affluence---by Deepak Chopra---I dig Deepak. He's (deep). Dating back to when he came out with "Ageless Body, Timeless Mind", I've been fascinated by his work. And you will be too. Though this one is a little more abstract than I'd like, there are still tools and techniques you'll find useful in developing a prosperous mindset.

What's on your book shelf? Do you think that being an avid reader helps writers to be better at their craft? What's your take?

Image Salvatore Vuono