I've enjoyed learning about the books everyone is reading!

Several months ago, I read "Fire and Rain" by Ian Halperin. It is an
unauthorized biography of James Taylor, and it's one of the most
poorly written books of that genre I've ever read. It's not
encumbered by clearness of thought, facts or correct spellings (even
of names). James has had a rough life, and I would not be surprised
to read a "rough" biography. But this just stays on the sleazy side,
and rarely offers validations by people who seem to actually know
JT.

On the other hand, I recently read "Freedom In Exile - the
Autobiography of the Dalai Lama" - it was marvelous. In the
introduction, HRH the Dalai Lama states that he wrote the book in
English, not his first (or second!) language. And yet, he writes
much more clearly than Mr. Halperin! I had read or heard the
phrase "Free Tibet" occasionally, and I understood there was strife,
but I was astoundingly ignorant about the history. It was an easy to
read book, with many fun and insightful stories throughout the
history and the thoughts about religion. I learned a lot from it.

On the other side of the universe from that, I also read the newest
Bridget Jones Diary - "Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason" (by Helen
Fielding.) It was light and odd and funny. And written like a
diary. Some parts made me laugh *so* hard.

I'd also like to second David's suggestions of the Harry Potter
books, and also of "Travelling Mercies" and "Bird by Bird" by Anne
Lamott. Both of Lamotts are terrific - but if you've ever sat in
front of a blank piece of paper, terrified by the vast whiteness of
it, the story about the title of "Bird by Bird" will touch you.