Evenings are for inspiration. One of the activities we are doing towards this end is to read books together. But not just any books.

My children love fantasy books, books about knights, castles, ninjas, magic, fantastical odysseys... anything with a good rollicking adventure (as I am sure most kids do). I am fine with them reading this stuff on their own, but when it comes to our family reading time, I am looking for something real. I am looking for stories about real people in the real world, in our time, living unconventional and adventurous lives. I am especially looking for stories about families. I don't want them to grow up thinking that life is only interesting in imaginary worlds, or eras gone by, but that there is excitement, adventure, and things worthy of living for going on right here and now. I want them to know that there are people just like us who are doing it.

The latest book we just completed is called Zero Days:

"Zero Days" is the true story of how two middle-aged Californians and their daughter hiked the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail in 2004. Published by Wilderness Press in Berkeley in 2008, "Zero Days" tells the tale of the trail from the viewpoint of author Barbara Egbert, photographer Gary Chambers and 10-year-old Mary, aka Scrambler, as they learned which family values could survive six months of blisters, dirt, and extraordinary exertion amidst some of the world's most spectacular scenery.

One of my dreams is to do a long distance thru-hike with our family. We have been casually talking about this for about a year and a half now. I figured reading about someone else doing it would be a good next step. So far, I am happy to report that after reading the book we aren't deterred yet. Whether or not we could ever logistically make something like that happen remains to be seen. Maybe I am a little crazy, but I like to dream big and see what transpires ;-)

Looking for some inspirational winter reading?

Now that we have finished the book, I would like to give it away! I am going to give it away to one lucky commenter. There are a few strings attached to this offer:

• You must read this book aloud together as a family. If you don't have kids yet, then just reading aloud to your spouse will do. If you aren't married yet, then read it aloud to your fiance, or girlfriend... or parents... ? Just don't read it alone!
• You must give away the book when you are done. Pass it on to the next person so that they can be inspired and encouraged. Try to give it to someone who would appreciate it. If you don't know of anyone, pass it on to one of the other commenters on this post. Lets try to encourage more families to read adventure stories together.
• After you have finished reading it, come back here and leave a comment to let us know how it went.

The deadline for entries will be in one week, midnight on Friday January 29th.

Do you have any book recommendations?

We would love to hear about any books that you would recommend. Do you know of any good stories about people (especially families) doing interesting things in our time? Let us know!

Update February 1, 2010: Congratulations go out to Granola Girl who was randomly selected as the winner. We look forward to hearing back from you after you have read the book.