Thanks for the recs. I read The Red Tent several years ago for my book group and very much enjoyed it. The idea of having a scheduled time of refuge every month was very enticing. Atonement, however, is one that I've not read. One question though, do you find it to be an ultimately hopeful book? I think that I've tended to shy away from McEwan because his subject matter is often so heavy. Does he manage to balance the weight of the subject so that it doesn't become overwhelming?

As for swimteams, we're part of the Parkwood Piranhas of the Durham Summer Swim League. My husband is one of the coaches in fact. We're trying to threepeat as DSSL Champions this year, but it's going to be tough. Although my oldest is determined to do all he can to make it happen. lol