What’s in my reading pile? January 2013

Each month, I plan to take a photo snapshot of what I’m currently reading. Here’s my bedside pile right now:

I’ve been working my way through a large pile of library books, plus I purchased Simple Mom’s “One Bite at a Time” in ebook format.

I’ve had “A Pattern Language” on request for a while (not sure why the library has a “not for loan” sticker on it!) and it’s a fascinating read on designing everything from towns to bedroom layouts. Written in the 70’s, it is still a highly influential book and most of the advice is timeless. Each pattern description, problem and solution is written concisely, so you can pick it up and focus just on what you’re interested in designing for yourself at the time. One pattern example is to have light in a room from two sides.

My favorite quote from the book was:

“Do not be tricked into believe that modern decor must be “slick”…or “natural” or whatever else that current taste-makers claim. It is most beautiful when it comes straight from your life–the things you care for, the things that tell your story.”

I discovered the book as I kept seeing it pop up in various blog posts when looking at design ideas for our new home and office, and then again recently reading Happier at Home.

The other books I’m still reading, so will update this post with thoughts on those as I progress!