“He is happiest, be he king or peasant, who finds peace in his home.” — Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Did you know that Congress established Veterans Day in 1926 as an observance of the truce that ended World War I on Nov. 11, 1918? I learned that fact while reading “The Last of the Doughboys.” Many people refer to that era as the “forgotten generation and the forgotten world war.” Hopefully, we will never forget these brave soldiers, and while we’re remembering let’s also pay special homage to all veterans not only on this November holiday, but every day.
As Americans we should be thankful for so much, and sometimes a book like “And the Mountains Echoed” drives that fact home. It also reminds me that no matter where we live, we are really not that different from each other — we want a good life for our loved ones, we want to be happy, we want to be safe. The “Law of the Garbage Truck” offers useful thoughts on how to be more content and less stressed. These books all give insight on how to be a little more grateful every day of this, the season of thanks.
"The Last of the Doughboys" - By Richard Rubin
In 2003, Richard Rubin set out to find one living veteran of World War I. Amazingly, he found dozens. All of them were over 100 years old, their lives touching three centuries. Rubin introduces the reader to these brave soldiers and helps the “forgotten war” to be eloquently remembered on the pages of his book. Sadly, in the decade it took to complete the book all of those interviewed have passed away. Luckily, their stories will live on. Rubin gives a face, a name and a voice to the “doughboys” of our history books. It is compelling reading.
"And the Mountains Echoed" - by Khaled Hosseini
Khaled Hosseini, the author of “The Kite Runner” and “A Thousand Splendid Suns,” has created another poignant novel. The story covers six decades and takes place in three countries. The characters are tied together through the bond of family. There is loss, great sacrifice and hardship. The story, though, is one of love and hope. It drives home the message that family is everything: Though our cultures, skin tones and religions may differ, we would do anything for the ones we love.
"The Law of the Garbage Truck" - by David Pollay
David Pollay defines a “garbage truck” as something that is negative that enters our life. It can be as simple as an irate driver or a bad waiter. It can be more complex as well, such as an unreasonable coworker or a sick parent. The point is we have a choice: We can let the garbage truck pass us by or we can let it dump on us. Pollay also explores how not to be a garbage truck to our self or others. The book is interactive with questions and quizzes to guide the reader. The author provides detailed examples and useful tips.