Perhaps you enjoy the outdoors in any kind of weather, but personally I like spring and fall for moderate temperatures, a nice dose of sunshine, and a bit of fresh air (my dog appreciates these things too). And just in case you find that perfect picturesque spot, it's always a good idea to have a book on hand.

From a safe and relaxing spot, I suggest climbing mountains, diving into lakes, escaping forest fires, and rafting on the rapids Anna Pigeon, a park ranger with a knack for solving mysteries. Author Nevada Barr has written a series that allows her main character to move around the country, accessing park back country and dangerous situations as part of her job. One of my favorites is Blind Descent, which takes place in New Mexico's Carlsbad Caverns National Park and has claustrophobic Anna crawling through caves to help save a stranded ranger. It's a very atmospheric and sensory read - you can actually feel the small spaces, the chill, and the utter darkness. 

If you want to start with the first book, it's called Track of the Cat, but I feel like you could begin with any book in the series and understand what's going on. Now grab your gear (aka library card) and go!

The audience fills the theater, chatter and soft laughter fill the air. The house lights dim, the stage is lit. At the conductor's command, the orchestra begins to play a symphony. How delightful! The musicians play so intently, graceful and lovely and elegant. To an extent.

Now if you're interested in what really happens backstage, in the orchestra pit, and at the rehearsal hall, it's not always pretty. The music industry can be tough, and that includes working as a classical musician. Perhaps not quite on the level of Led Zepplin or Keith Moon in the 70's, Blair Tindall presents a no holds barred, rock and roll world look at life as a working oboist in her book Mozart in the Jungle: Sex, Drugs, and Classical Music. 

Think only rock stars party hard and use illicit substances to stay awake and keep their edge? Concert musicians have eight hour rehearsals, music lessons, performances, and plenty of competition for the lead seat and solos. Tindall may be banking on scandal, but it's a fascinating look at what can be a cutthroat profession. Maybe the next reality TV series will be "Outrageous in the Orchestra". I'd watch that!

"A year seems very long to wait before I see them, but remind them that while we wait we may all work, so that these hard days need not be wasted. I know they will remember all I said to them, that they will be loving children to you, will do their duty faithfully, fight their bosom enemies bravely, and conquer themselves so beautifully that when I come back to them I may be fonder and prouder than ever of my little women." 

  ~from a letter from Mr. March to his family, 
    Little Women by Lousia May Alcott

The decision to read March by Geraldine Brooks was a tough one. I adore Little Women and have read through it several times; sometimes I just reread favorite parts. Much like when a book is turned into a movie there's always a question of how characters will be interpreted by a different author.

I need not have worried. While March includes the four sisters and Marmee, the story it tells is of Mr. March, the father who's presence is felt and briefly seen in Little Women. Enlisted in the army during the Civil War, March is a chaplain brave in duty, comforting to the soldiers, a willing teacher - he is a flesh and blood man. Though he writes stalwart letters home, the hardships and horrors of the war become a part of him forever. Much darker and more mature than Alcott's novel, March is a must read for avid fans. If you haven't read the original, I think the character is developed enough in his own right to make for a rewarding read.

He's educated. Charming. Thoughtful at times, pensive. Adorably handsome. Loves fast cars. And he will lick your face if he likes you.

The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein features an odd and extraordinary narrator, Enzo the dog. You have to buy into the premise of reading a book from the dog's point of view, but once you do, it's quite a remarkable read. It is Enzo's belief that once you have lived your lifetimes as a dog, you will finally return as a man. He learns from his owner, race car diver Denny Swift, that going fast in life is not nearly as important as learning to navigate the course. The story follows Enzo from his adoption as a pup, through hanging out with Denny and then becoming a family dog, into the wisdom of his old age. I was surprised by how funny the book is without being silly, and the sensitivity and understanding shown by Enzo felt like it could really be what's going on inside a dog's mind. Of course I recommend it for pet lovers, but I think the book can be enjoyed by anyone.

Just for fun, here's a picture of my little dog Nina at the peak of her education - Pet Smart graduation!