Top 5 Books to Read at a Bed and Breakfast

1. The Cat Who Covered the World by Christopher S. Wren

The subtitle is "The Adventures of Henrietta and Her Foreign Correspondent," and that provides a nice synopsis of what this book's about. Cat lovers will find plenty to enjoy, as New York Times correspondent Wren skillfully tells the story of how his family's cat became the centerpiece of their travels. I highly recommend this memoir, which is alternatingly funny, profound and sad.

2. The Cloister Walk by Kathleen Norris

Booklist called this religious reflection an "exquisite chronicle of spiritual discovery," while the New York Times said Norris is "one of history's writing pilgrims but also a contemporary American one." Reviewers at Amazon.com labeled The Cloister Walk "mesmerizing" and "inspiring." If you're interested in something deeper than usual, consider trying this book.

3. Bride and Doom by Jean Hager

Hager is one of two authors (Mary Daheim is the other) with a regular mystery series featuring an innkeeper as the amateur sleuth. In this novel, innkeeper Tess Darby prepares for her marriage but runs into a stumbling block when the chef at the country club turns up dead with a meat cleaver in his chest.

4. Ghost Soldiers: World War II's Greatest Rescue Mission by Hampton Sides

When 500 American and Allied soldiers were held in a Philippine-based prisoner of war camp during World War II, a dramatic rescue mission was undertaken to free them. Publisher's Weekly said, "The author's excellent grasp of human emotions and bravery makes this compelling book hard to put down." If you're a history buff, this is the pick for you.

5. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling

One of the many beauties of the Harry Potter books is that they can be enjoyed by both parents and children -- making them perfect for family getaways. If you haven't read any of the books, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone is the place to start.