READING L.A.

Chris Holabird, director, Los Encinos School:

“Saying Grace,” by Beth Gutcheon (Harper Perennial).

“I immediately related to this story of the stresses and strains that are part of daily life at any school. What then made the book so special was that it broadens to become the powerful account of one person’s struggle with loss and relationships and values.”

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Laraine Newman, actress:

“Home Fires: An Intimate Portrait of One Middle-Class Family in Post-War America,” by Donald Katz (Harper Perennial).

“I like stories about real people. I can relate to the feelings of the children in this story and the parents as well. What is most appealing is that the characters’ experiences reflect what are now historical events.”

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Lydia Sarandan, minister of adult ministries, St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church:

“Living Faith,” by Jimmy Carter (Times Books).

“Carter provides a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at his effort to bring countries and government leaders together at his peace center. He also talks about his faith and how he integrates it into his daily life. He practices what he believes.”

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Pam Meyer, admissions coordinator, Simi Valley Hospital:

“Reba, My Story,” by Reba McEntire with Tom Carter (Bantam).

“As a struggling single mother, I found Reba’s story inspirational. With song, a prayer and gut instincts, she overcame many obstacles and built an empire from humble beginnings, never forgetting who she is or from where she came.”