Let the Games Begin - 48-Hour Book Challenge Is On

I just returned from the library with an armful of books. Will I get through them all? It's doubtful, but I'm sure going to try. Since I'm not yet sleeping more than 3 or 4 hours a night (unless drugged), I may as well take advantage of the time and read. As soon as I get dinner on the table, I'm starting. For the sake of argument, let's call it 7 pm Friday to 7 pm Sunday for me. My pile of books includes:

• Project Mulberry by Linda Sue Park - My trip to a silk factory in China inspired me to finally pick this one up.
• Resurrection Men by T.K. Welsh - The only encouragement I needed to check this one out was a recommendation from someone with exquisite taste. Thanks Kelly!
• Cupid: A Tale of Love and Desire by Julius Lester - Lester is one of my favorite authors, and besides, I couldn't resist a book with flap copy that reads: "Cupid is the god of love and a tireless maker of mischief. When he breaks out his bow and quiver, nobody's safe. Sleepless nights, embarrassing poetry, nausea . . . What could be more fun? Only, perhaps, seeing the god of love humbled with a little heartache of his own."
• Magic or Madness and Magic Lessons by Justine Larbalestier - I've been reading her blog, so I guess it's time I picked up her books!
• Two "teacher" books I simply haven't read yet, even though my students keep recommending them: Educating Esme by Esme Raji Codell (finally!) and There are No Shortcuts by Rafe Esquith.
• I Am a Pencil by Sam Swope - What could be better than reading about the experience of writing poetry with kids?
• Class Matters - This was the book for UR's "One Book, One Campus: Dialogues in Social Justice" project during the 06-07 academic year. I've been meaning to read it all year.
• Finally, I've been saving The Bastard of Istanbul by Elif Shafak ever since I heard her interviewed on NPR. Now that I have a friend leaving for Istanbul, I'm more than inspired to read it.

I doubt I'll get through the entire list, but it will be fun trying.