Hamster,

bill Bryson is an excellent author for the type of reading that you are talking about. Easy to pick up, read a few pages, set down, come back to later. Only you will not want to put this particular book down. Honestly, this book was one of the most enjoyable reads I have ever had, and Hamster, I have read plenty. I wish I could hand my copy to you now. I recommend it that highly.

http://www.amazon.com/In-Sunburned-C.../dp/0767903862

-Fleeing Bellocq, Muse of the Mission District