Stories of the last books of the year

Early this month I thought I was through reading books for 2019, but that was before I again browsed  at Edmond Best of Books one day.
I'd forgotten I ordered N. Scott Momaday's novel, House Made of Dawn, and went to pick it up.
I've had an autographed copy of his In the Bear's House for years, but was inspired by the recent documentary Words from a Bear which aired on PBS, and was co-produced by colleague and friend Dr. Desiree Hill, of the Mass Comm Department at UCO.
I am enthralled by the poetic and descriptive power of this book, largely set on the Jemez Pueblo lands of northern New Mexico. I've been there and see and sense the story and country. I will finish it this week, going slowly because the words deserve savoring.
But back to browsing, I found two other books. The first, Embrace Your Weird, by Felicia Day, is a creative self help book, guide, workbook. I'll finish it too, though it demands much thought and work scribbling on the exercises.
that will make 36 books this year.
The other book, The Essential Lewis and Clark, edited by Anthony Brandt caught my eye, because I'd never red the journals. Just into it, but captivated by their description of life just over 200 years ago. And it sets your wanderlust travel fever going.

Today, I found and started reading my dad's old book, How to Paint with a Knife, from 1971. I have most of his art books, and as I've started dabbling in oil this year, my late-in-life DIY Art School needs are increasing. This was also prompted having bought the late Regina Murphy's palette and painting knives as well as acrylics and other materials in February in the Paseo Arts District. See link: Inspiration for change.
The knives are in my studio/office, reminiscent of my dad, and they beckon me to use them.
Those two books will go into my 2020 journal as the first books for the new year. Stories to tell.