My dear friend, Margaret O’Shea, is a lifelong educator, former principal of Lyme Consolidated School, and on the board of the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut and the New London Magnet High School of Science and Technology. Dr. Peg’s impressive resume is too long to summarize here, but she was an obvious choice for a reading list to share with subscribers. A few years ago, I asked her for her all-time favorite books, and I’ve requested updates every year. I’ve loved every book she has recommended.

Here’s her latest list (and the original). 

Time of the Child, Niall Williams: Exquisitely written 

This is Happiness, Niall Williams

Lessons from My Teachers, Sarah Ruhl: Award winning playwright, teacher at Yale School of Drama,MacArthur Genius Award winner

Hello Beautiful, Ann Napolitano

James, Percival Everett: A tour de force

Isola, Allegra Goodman: A story of faith and love

Frozen River, Ariel Lawhon: Historical fiction based on a true story

The Wedding Dress Sewing Circle, Jennifer Ryan: A tale of friends offering support

The Ghost and Mrs Muir, RA Dick: Circa 1945…old and sweet

Fresh Water for Flowers, Valerie Perrin: A deep and penetrating tale