Read any good books lately?

After a sizable donation to the local library, (cough, cough) I got back in the saddle and checked out some more books. L-12 and I enjoyed reading these three books separately and then discussed them together.
Esperanza Rising by Pam Munoz Ryan was a great book with lots of things to discuss. It had a lot of relevance for us because the setting of the story is California. It's an inspiring story of courage and love of family with some great culture mixed in.
Richard Peck's two books, A Long Way From Chicago and A Year Down Yonder are belly laughing fun books! I love the character of Grandma Dowdel! I love how each chapter reveals another layer of Grandma's complex personality. *You might want to preview these books first.*
M-6 and I greatly enjoyed the sweet little mini chapter book, Catwings. It is a whimsical tale of some kittens born with wings. Simple and adorable illustrations. We're looking forward to reading more in the 4 book series.
With all of the hoopla in the news about the homeschooling court case, L-12 took this book down from our shelf to find out for herself what our constitutional rights are! Every cloud has a silver lining and it was an interesting study for her.
P-8 was also bitten by the court case bug and was seen with his nose in this book. Sometimes it takes a simple children's picture book for me to get things and this was certainly the case with this book. I now know a lot more about the Supreme Court than I did!
Finally, my newest acquisition for my groaning nightstand is The SuperConfitelligent Child by Denise Hornbeak. Dee Dee is my Brain Gym mentor and is a real sweetie! This book is a look into the importance of movement and learning and its effect on the developing minds of children. Dee Dee is incredibly knowledgable and has a sweet spirit and heart for children and the care givers that love them.
So, have you read any good books lately?