Angus resident Amy Kiezebrink is many things: a wife, mother of three young boys, graphic designer, writer, reader – with a “to be read” list that is getting wildly out of hand. She’s even a blogger (check out DearSonLoveMommy.com) where she chronicles the adventures of parenting three boys.
She’s also the reason why you’ve probably been seeing a certain red book cover everywhere you go this summer. Amy selected “The Maid” by Nita Prose for the 2023 Simcoe Reads event and will be representing Essa Public Library at the live debate (taking place October 19 at the Angus Recreation Center – don’t forget to mark your calendars).
We talked with Amy about why she loved the book, what makes an ideal summer read, and where she thinks she’d fit in at the Olympics.
What made you choose “The Maid” by Nita Prose?
I instantly fell in love with the character in “The Maid”. Molly Gray is odd, there’s no two ways about it. But her pure innocence, quirky ways, and her very black and white approach to life just made her the most lovable {albeit sometimes frustrating) character. I also really enjoyed the mix of clue-like mystery, humour and the odd tear-jerking moments the book had to offer.
If you could sum up “The Maid” in one or two words, what would they be?
Witty and Fresh.
Who do you think would enjoy “The Maid”?
Anyone who enjoys a mystery/drama with some lighthearted humour and heart-warming characters.
How long did it take you to read “The Maid”?
It’s a pretty quick read, I think it took me about a week with three boys at home for the summer. Everything takes long in the summer.
What makes a great book?
I love a book that is the whole package—it needs to keep my attention the whole way through and draw me into the story so I feel like I am in it. Character development is also huge for me, I want to know everything about the characters, I want to love them or hate them, feel for them, and know everything about them right down to what they like on their pizza.
What was your reaction when you were asked to be Essa Public Library’s champion for Simcoe Reads 2023?
I was ridiculously excited because if reading was an Olympic sport, I’m pretty sure I would place high in it. Any excuse to meet people and talk about books, I’m in.
What is your ideal summer read?
I love a good series or an insanely thick family saga to carry me through the summer. Give me lots of characters, give me lots of drama, give it all to me on a dock, by a pool, or on a beach.
What is your favourite reading spot?
I bring a book everywhere I go because with three boys you never know where you’re going to end up (usually the walk-in clinic or emergency room), so it’s handy to have one with you. My favourite reading spot is usually outside somewhere with a cold glass of wine but preferably without a million mosquitoes.
Other than “The Maid”, what is the best book you’ve read in 2023 so far?
Oh my, really? Okay I’ve had a love affair at the moment with Fredrik Backman, no no not a real one. I’ve just finished reading the “Beartown” Series (“Beartown”, “Us Against You” and “The Winners”) – all three amazing. My favourite non-fiction I’ve recently devoured is “Create Anyway” by Ashlee Gadd; very inspiring, very head-nodding.
What are you looking forward to about the live debate at the Angus Recreation Centre on October 19?
The free wine? Joking, I don’t think there is any. I’m really looking forward to hearing the other celebrities defend their books and I’m excited to speak about “The Maid” and why I think it should be the Simcoe Reads book champion. Nita, I’m not going to let you down!
Simcoe Reads is a cover-to-cover competition for adults, which brings together seven participating libraries: Barrie, Bradford West Gwillimbury, Essa, Innisfil, Midland, New Tecumseth, and Ramara. For more details and to register for the event, visit SimcoeReads.ca. Follow along and join us on October 19th at the Angus Recreation Centre for your chance to vote for your favourite book!
