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LF Book Club

Welcome to Life’s Feast Book Club!

Unlock the joy of reading and embark on a literary journey with our unique book club that caters to families. At Life’s Feasts, we believe books nourish the mind and soul. Whether you’re a mom seeking inspiration or looking for stories to share with your family, there’s a book waiting for you.

Explore, Learn, and Enjoy Together!

Leah’s Book Picks

Moms, carve out a moment for yourself with our thoughtfully curated book selections. From heartfelt memoirs to uplifting fiction, our mom section offers stories that resonate with the challenges and triumphs of motherhood. Connect with other moms, share your thoughts, and indulge in the simple pleasure of a good book.

January 2025

I didn’t expect a story about beer and war to hit me in the heart, but The Greatest Beer Run Ever did just that. It’s a wild, unbelievable, true story about a guy who decides to bring beers to his buddies serving in Vietnam—but what starts as a lighthearted mission quickly turns into a powerful, sobering look at brotherhood, loyalty, and the costs of war. It’s a blend of humor, courage, and humanity that makes you both laugh and reflect. This one’s perfect for readers who love history told with heart and grit.

February 2025

Jodi Picoult doesn’t shy away from hard questions, and Nineteen Minutes was an emotional gut-punch in the best way. It explores the devastating aftermath of a school shooting from every angle—students, parents, the shooter’s family—and challenges us to look beyond black-and-white narratives. As a mom, it shook me, made me think deeply about parenting, peer pressure, and empathy. If you want a gripping read that sparks real conversation, this is it.

March 2025

If you love crime thrillers that feel grounded in real life, A Measure of Darkness is a gripping ride. It starts with a shocking incident at a house party and spirals into a layered investigation of trauma, identity, and justice. It’s fast-paced and intense but also has real emotional depth—just the kind of story that pulls you in and keeps you thinking about it long after the last page. Ideal for those of us who love a good mystery with meaning.

April 2025

Few books have stayed with me like Unbroken. Laura Hillenbrand tells the story of Louis Zamperini—a rebellious boy turned Olympic runner, World War II bombardier, and Japanese POW survivor—with such depth and clarity, I found myself in awe. His resilience, humor, and sheer will to live made me cry more than once. It’s one of those epic true stories that reminds you what the human spirit is capable of, and every time I recommend it, I feel like I’m passing on a gift.

May 2025

Colleen Hoover has a way of writing emotionally charged romances that punch you right in the chest, and November 9 is no exception. It’s raw, romantic, and full of unexpected twists—perfect for when you’re in the mood to feel everything. The story of Fallon and Ben, who meet once a year on the same day, plays out like a beautiful mess of love, self-discovery, and heartbreak. This book is perfect for a cozy evening when you want to lose yourself in emotion.

June 2025

This book left me speechless. A Rebel in Auschwitz tells the real story of Witold Pilecki, a man who voluntarily entered Auschwitz to resist from within. As a mother and reader, I was moved by the bravery and unthinkable sacrifice this story reveals. It’s written in a way that’s accessible and deeply human, making history feel heartbreakingly real. If you want to read something that will inspire you and challenge your perspective, this belongs on your shelf.

July 2025

Mad Honey is a beautifully written emotional rollercoaster about secrets, identity, and second chances. Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan weave together a mystery and a love story in a way that’s tender and raw. As a mom, the themes of parental protection, truth, and acceptance hit hard. It’s the kind of book that pulls you in with its plot and stays with you because of its message. If you enjoy stories that are equal parts beautiful and brave, don’t miss this one.

August 2025

Description

family Book Series

Bring your family together with stories everyone can enjoy! Each month, we handpick engaging books that inspire connection, spark imagination, and create cherished memories. Whether it’s a family read-aloud or a shared discussion, our family section celebrates the joy of reading together.

Case Closed Mystery Book Series

As a mom, I absolutely love the Case Closed series by Lauren Magaziner. The interactive “choose-your-path” format—where kids help Carlos, Eliza, and Frank crack puzzles and interview suspects—keeps young readers excited and in control of the story. With clever mysteries set in spooky mansions, missing‑star studios, haunted hotels, and archaeological digs, these books are perfect for families seeking engaging, age‑appropriate thrills that spark discussions and reading confidence.

Eerie Elementary

As a mom, I can’t recommend the Eerie Elementary series enough—it’s the perfect mix of spooky and silly for early readers. The fast-paced stories and action-packed illustrations make it a great choice for kids who are just getting into chapter books, especially those who need a little extra encouragement to read. If your child enjoys mystery, adventure, and just the right dose of suspense, this series is a fun and family-friendly option to get them hooked on reading.

I Need My Monster

The I Need My Monster set by Amanda Noll is a charming and funny twist on bedtime fears, following a boy named Ethan and his lovable under-the-bed monster, Gabe. With silly monster auditions and just the right mix of spooky and sweet, these books turn nighttime nerves into laughs. As a mom, I love how they make bedtime fun while helping kids feel safe, brave, and entertained all at once.

Magic Tree House

The Magic Tree House series by Mary Pope Osborne is a perfect introduction to chapter books, blending time travel, history, and adventure through the eyes of siblings Jack and Annie. Each book whisks readers to a new place and time—from ancient Egypt to the moon—making learning exciting and accessible. As a mom, I love how this series sparks curiosity, encourages independent reading, and inspires endless “what if” questions around the dinner table.

Harry Potter

The Harry Potter series is a timeless journey into a world of magic, friendship, and the battle between good and evil. Following Harry from his first days at Hogwarts to his ultimate showdown with Voldemort, these books are packed with adventure, heart, and unforgettable characters. As a mom, I love how the series grows with the reader—blending humor, loyalty, and courage in ways that spark imagination and deeper conversations about choices, identity, and standing up for what’s right. It’s a must-have for every family bookshelf.

The Notebook of Doom

The Notebook of Doom series by Troy Cummings is a fast-paced, silly-but-spooky adventure perfect for early readers who love monsters, mystery, and a good laugh. It follows Alexander, a new kid in town who discovers a mysterious notebook and accidentally becomes the leader of a secret monster-fighting group. As a mom, I love that this series is fun and easy to read, with just the right amount of creepy excitement to keep kids hooked—without being too scary for bedtime! It’s a great bridge between picture books and chapter books.

Book Wanders Series

Pages & Co.: The Bookwanderers is a whimsical, heart-filled series that follows Tilly, a brave and book-loving girl who discovers she can travel into her favorite stories. As a mom, I love how this series encourages a deep love of reading, while blending adventure, imagination, and just the right touch of mystery. It’s a perfect family read that sparks meaningful conversations about belonging, bravery, and the magic waiting on every page.

The One and Only Series

The One and Only series by Katherine Applegate is a deeply moving and beautifully written collection that follows the journey of Ivan the gorilla, his loyal friend Bob the dog, and their growing animal family. These stories gently explore friendship, courage, loss, and hope—all through the eyes of animals with big hearts and unforgettable voices. As a mom, I appreciate how this series blends emotional depth with accessible storytelling, making it perfect for family read-alouds and meaningful discussions about empathy and kindness.

The Unwanteds Series

The Unwanteds series by Lisa McMann is an enchanting blend of dystopia and magic, perfect for families who love imagination-driven adventures. In Quill, creativity is outlawed—kids deemed “Unwanted” are sent to their deaths, but Alex Stowe and friends discover Artimé, a hidden magical world where art and invention create real magic. As siblings clash, alliances shift, and every island brings new perils, the series explores themes of belonging, courage, and the power of creativity. It’s a gripping, emotional ride that kept my family turning pages—ideal for bonding over bravery, friendship, and profound life lessons.

A Mighty Marvel Team-Up Graphic Novel

As a mom, I love how the Spider-Man: Mighty Marvel Team-Up graphic novel series brings superhero fun to early readers in a way that’s both age-appropriate and exciting. The stories are lighthearted and action-packed, with bold, colorful illustrations that keep kids engaged from start to finish. It’s a great introduction to graphic novels and the Marvel universe—perfect for kids who love comics or are just getting into reading.

Young Adult Books

Many books marketed as young adult today dive into mature, heavy, or even risky content that can feel overwhelming or out of step for readers still growing into themselves. But not every teen needs to be rushed into adult themes to enjoy a compelling story. There’s a refreshing and much-needed space in YA fiction for books that let teens be teens—offering smart, engaging stories without the pressure to grow up too fast. These books celebrate friendship, identity, curiosity, and coming-of-age moments in ways that are age-appropriate, heartfelt, and relatable, giving young readers stories that reflect their world without pushing them past it.

The Chaos Walking Trilogy

This series is unique and full of action, but what I love most is how it deals with communication, fear, and the weight of responsibility in a world where everyone’s thoughts are heard. It’s intense, but not inappropriate—great for older teens who want a smart, emotionally engaging adventure without crossing into overly dark territory.

The Divergent Series

My teen devoured this series, and I felt comfortable with her doing so. It’s packed with action and explores identity, bravery, and societal structure in a way that resonates with teens without being explicit. While there are high-stakes scenes, the overall tone stays respectful, and the main character, Tris, is a great example of inner strength and self-discovery.

The Hunger Games Series

I’ll admit I was skeptical at first, but The Hunger Games surprised me with its powerful messages about injustice, courage, and compassion. While the premise is intense, the storytelling never feels gratuitous. It’s an excellent way to get teens thinking about leadership, sacrifice, and ethical choices—plus, it features a strong female lead who inspires rather than shocks.

The Art of Racing in the Rain

Told through the eyes of a dog, this novel surprisingly captures the essence of family, loyalty, and love. While some moments tug hard on the heartstrings, it’s a beautiful reminder of life’s fragility and the bonds that keep us grounded. It’s a gentle introduction to themes of loss and perseverance that older teens can appreciate without feeling emotionally overwhelmed.

The Giver

This is one of those books I love handing to curious kids who are starting to question the world around them. The Giver introduces deep ideas—like freedom, conformity, and emotional depth—through a dystopian lens that’s accessible and clean. It’s thought-provoking without being graphic, and perfect for sparking critical thinking in middle and early high school readers.

A Monster Calls

This book took my breath away. It explores grief in a way that’s both imaginative and deeply human, as a young boy copes with his mother’s illness through the visits of a mysterious monster. It’s emotional, yes, but also deeply cathartic. I recommend it for older tweens and teens who are ready for a story that’s raw, honest, and ultimately healing—without relying on shock value.

The Diary of Anne Frank

This is one of those books every young person should read. Anne Frank’s voice is honest, hopeful, and heartbreakingly relatable. Reading her diary helps teens understand the emotional reality of the Holocaust through the eyes of someone their own age. As a parent, I appreciate that it’s both age-appropriate and deeply meaningful—it teaches empathy, resilience, and the value of every human life.

The Kite Runner

I’d reserve The Kite Runner for mature high schoolers—it’s a beautifully written story of friendship, betrayal, and redemption set against the backdrop of Afghanistan’s changing landscape. While it contains some very difficult themes, it’s handled with care and literary grace. I’d definitely recommend reading it alongside your teen for discussion, as it opens the door to conversations about culture, conscience, and forgiveness.

Little Women

Timeless and full of heart, Little Women remains one of my top picks for girls who are growing into themselves. The March sisters each offer something relatable, from Jo’s ambition to Beth’s quiet kindness. It’s wholesome without being dull, and it models strong family values, self-discovery, and resilience—something I’m always happy to put in my daughter’s hands.

Letters from Rifka

Letters from Rifka is a powerful and tender immigration story told through the eyes of a young girl fleeing Russia for America. The diary-style format feels personal and accessible, and the historical context adds depth without becoming too heavy. It’s one of those rare books that blends resilience, faith, and youthful optimism in a way that feels empowering for young readers.

Pax

Pax is a quiet, beautiful story that centers on the bond between a boy and his pet fox during wartime. It gently touches on themes of separation, healing, and growing up—but it does so with tenderness and heart. I love that it encourages empathy and emotional insight without feeling heavy or inappropriate. It’s perfect for tweens and young teens who are navigating big feelings and changes.

The Book Thief

As a mom, I’m always looking for books that challenge my teen’s thinking without overwhelming them—and The Book Thief delivers. Set in Nazi Germany and narrated by Death, it tells the story of a young girl discovering the power of words in the midst of unimaginable loss. It’s emotionally complex but presented in such a poetic, thoughtful way that it opens up powerful conversations about history, humanity, and courage—without resorting to graphic content.

The Hidden Girl

This true story of a young girl surviving the Holocaust is moving and powerful, yet written with a tone that feels appropriate for younger readers. It doesn’t shy away from the realities of war, but it also doesn’t dwell on horror. As a mom, I appreciate how it introduces important historical lessons while celebrating hope, bravery, and survival.

To Kill a Mockingbird

Classic and essential, this book remains relevant and readable for teens today. It handles racism and justice through the eyes of a child in a way that’s honest but not graphic. As a mom, I value how it encourages moral courage and empathy, with characters like Atticus Finch modeling what it means to stand for what’s right, even when it’s hard.
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