I started reading "Last House: A Novel" by Jessica Shattuck today. She is an esteemed New York Times bestselling author known for her work "The Women in the Castle." This sweeping narrative, perfect for "The Dutch House" and "Great Circle" fans, explores a nation's rise to power and a family's complex ties to the resources that shaped their wealth. It also delves into the events that led to their greatest tragedy, a secret that threatens to tear them apart.

Were You Talking to Me?
Listening to the World While Perambulating
The light, the persistent drizzle was a mild annoyance, but it didn’t stop me from progressing. As I crossed the street to reach the walking path, I encountered a woman walking her dog. “Have a good day,” I said, sounding upbeat. The woman responded with a couple of words like “U2.” However, as I passed her, she asked, “Were you talking to me?” I stopped and confirmed that I was. Oh, I thought you were on your phone,” she said. We both laughed as I replied, “I’m old school. I listen to the world as I walk.”