Not to be dramatic…
…but books have changed my life.
They’ve changed the way I write.
They’ve changed the way I talk.
They’ve helped me with the SAT and the GRE and a zillion other tests.
They’ve introduced me to plethora and facsimile and myriad and unwieldy and a zillion other words that you don’t find a lot in conversation but you can find between the cover of a really good book.
I’ve been all in on reading since Pa and Ma and Carrie and Mary and Laura started out in the big woods and went to Plum Creek and then took a wagon across the prairie. And since then? I’ve never looked back. There’s just something about the wonder and excitement and satisfaction found in and amongst the pages of a really good book.
And TODAY is the DAY we are celebrating BOOKS.
Today is the day for our SUMMER READING CHALLENGE featuring SWAN SONG by Elin Hildebrand.
Want to join in the discussion and see the prizes?
LET’S GO.
You can read all about the book here.
I was trying to figure out the best way to share what I thought about the book with you.
Suffice it to say I loved it. But that’s a little lame on the explanation department.
I think you already knew that I would love it because this is my 7th Elin Hilderbrand book that I’ve read and I’ve waxed poetically about the other books.
So instead of going on and on about how amazing the book was and that everyone should read it, I thought instead, what if I shared 17 random observations I made about the book when I read it so I could share it with you?
Here goes:
1. There were A LOT of characters. It was kind of hard to keep them all straight, but I think this could have been solved if I had read the other books leading up to this one.
2. I had no idea what a Lychee was (they had Lychee Mai Tai’s at the Richardson’s party). It’s an exotic fruit also known as an alligator strawberry.
3. Have you ever seen the Nantucket basket purses that they talked about in the book? I saw them on Nantucket and they are amazing.
4. I loved how the author wrote occasionally in the collective “We.” I’ve seen that in her other books, but she scattered it throughout the book in Swan Song. It made me feel like I was part of the Nantucket community.
5. At the end of the book, the Chief was thinking about Sconset and I’ve stayed there. It’s amazing and they have the most amazing bluff walk.
6. I loved the title of the book. Swan Song was such a reference to so many things. From Elin Hilderbrand’s last beach book, to the Chief’s retirement, to his final Swan Song at the end of the book when he looked back on his life before he passed away.
7. When I saw the name Coco—I immediately thought of Coco Chanel.
8. I had no idea there was an island called Tuckernuck.
9. I looked it up and apparently, Tuckernuck island is a real place. Coincidentally, one of my favorite clothing brands is called Tuckernuck, too.
10. I’ve read other books with Blonde Sharon where she was too gossipy, but I REALLY liked her in this book.
11. They mention Murray’s Toggery in the book. This is where Coco’s uniforms are from. Here’s a picture of the exterior.
12. Nantucket Red is a type of clothing that they sell at Murray’s Toggery. I splurged and bought a jacket in Nantucket Red. I need to take a picture and share.
13. I never heard of a Burgee before (you know—from the Burgee Bar). A burger is a flag using in saling for identifications and signals.
14. This is the Chanticleer restaurant that was mentioned in the book. It’s one of my favorite restaurants EVER.
15. The opening scene at the ferry? I’ve stood RIGHT THERE. After I went to Nantucket—it really brought the book to life.
16. My favorite character in the book (which totally surprised me) was Coco. I loved her attitude and how she loved life and how she had overcome so much.
17. Did you see where Leslee Richardson ordered some of her furnishings from Serena and Lily?
Character Quiz
Now? Are you ready for some fun?
Here’s a quiz to help figure out which character in the book you most identify with.
Question 1: You’re strolling along the beach, and you see a tempting ice cream cart. What do choose?
A) A classic scoop of vanilla with rainbow sprinkles.
B) A decadent triple-chocolate brownie sundae with all the toppings (life’s too short for boring ice cream)
C) A refreshing sorbet with fresh berries and a hint of mint (light and breezy)
D) A refreshing coconut sorbet with a side of pineapple
Question 2: Your best friend just announced they’re moving away. What’s your reaction?
A) You immediately start planning a surprise farewell party
B) You’re sad, but you’re excited to visit them and plan new things together in the future even though you’re far away
C) You’re a bit heartbroken and you’re not sure how you’ll cope with the change because you are truly a loyal friend
D) You’re bummed, but you console yourself with the thought that sometimes a little space is good for a friendship
Question 3: It’s a rainy afternoon. What’s your ideal way to spend it?
A) Snuggling up on the couch with a good book and a cup of tea
B) Brainstorming a new business venture
C) Taking a long, hot bath with a calming face mask and a magazine
D) Exploring a new art gallery or museum
Question 4: You’re heading out for a night on the town. What kind of restaurant do you choose?
A) A lively, bustling spot with live music and a vibrant atmosphere
B) A chic, trendy restaurant with innovative dishes and a sophisticated ambiance
C) A cozy, charming bistro with delicious, home-cooked meals
D) A casual beachfront eatery with fresh seafood and stunning ocean views
Question 5: What is your favorite summer outfit?
A) A chic, effortless sundress with a touch of bohemian flair
B) A bold, colorful dress that will make a statement
C) A classic, timeless dress that’s both comfortable and elegant
D) A casual, breezy outfit with a touch of beachy charm
Tally up which letter you answered the most and scroll down to see which character in the book you most identify with.
Answer Key
If you answered A?
You are all about Andrea:
Andrea is a free-spirited, creative, and adventurous soul. She loves to embrace life’s joys, whether it’s a vibrant cocktail party or a quiet moment on the beach. She’s a strong, independent woman who’s always looking for new experiences.
If you answered B?
You are all about Blonde Sharon:
Blonde Sharon is gregarious and outgoing. She loves to know what’s going on in everyone’s lives, and she’s not afraid to share her opinions. She can be a bit dramatic, but she’s also fiercely loyal to her friends and family.
If you answered C?
You are all about Coco:
Coco is the loyal, supportive, and hardworking friend. She’s always there for her loved ones, offering a shoulder to cry on and a helping hand. She’s down-to-earth and practical, but she also has a playful side and loves a good laugh.
If you answered D?
You are all about Ed:
Ed is the grounded, loyal, and responsible one. He’s the pillar of the community, with a strong sense of duty and a heart of gold. He’s a bit reserved, but he’s fiercely protective of his family and his town.
And now?
I want to hear from you.
What did you think about the book?
I’d LOVE to hear!!!!
I’m giving away FIVE $20 Amazon gift cards to FIVE OF YOU.
Just comment below and I’ll pick FIVE comments by random draw and announce the winners on Monday.
**Please note that you must live in the US and be over 18 to enter.
Thank you so much for joining in our FIRST-EVER summer reading challenge. If we all liked it, we could do a fall reading challenge, too!
PS Just in case you needed any more book recommendations, here are some other amazing reads.
Please note: the giveaway is closed and comments are closed and all winners have been notified.
disclosure: affiliate links are used in this post.
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