8) The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
4 out of 5 -- By the end of the first chapter, my mind found itself comparing this book to The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. The difference is Four Agreements is directive, whereas this book is written like a parable. It was a good read and I would recommend to others, who need to open their hearts to the possibility of opportunities in the world.
9) Dear Girls Above Me: Inspired by True Story by Charles McDowell
4 out of 5 -- This modern story, which tells a story a man who tweets about the two sorority sisters next door and the ditsy things they say to one another, is LOL funny. Sure, as a woman I should be shocked and worried about what this sort of story does for moving forward feminism. But the reality is, there are men and women who are flighty (at best), and while they may be wonderful human beings, they do say dumb things. This book pokes fun, while also cherishing how these same folks can teach us little life lessons about living life.
10) Free Country: A Penniless Adventure the Length of Britain by George Mahood
5 out of 5 -- Originally I rated this book a 4 immediately after reading it. It was a nice tale of the goodness of the British people, to help two young men get from one end of England to the other, with not a dime spent between them. Starting in nothing but their boxer shorts, these guys meet quite a few characters, take part in a host of festivals celebrating the small things in life, and somehow find the means to do it on bike (which they also were donated along the way). Upon reflection of the good-nature and feel-good emotions I have in recalling the book, I upped the rating to a 5.
11) Egghead: Or, You Can't Survive on Ideas Alone by Bo Burnham
1 out of 5 -- A book of poems that was a little crass, felt like the author was pulling shit from his ass. From a few I did chuckle, but most inspired no chortle. Mostly I was glad, to write this book was read. 'Cause like that last line, some of that bs didn't rhyme. I could've liked it if there were inspiration to be had, instead it was just wasted time reading the works of this lad.
12) Let's Explore Diabetes with Owls by David Sedaris
4 out of 5 -- The story of David's life in Paris. If you've ever heard David Sedaris' voice on NPR, then it's hard to not imagine him personally telling you this story. It's a great narrative of Paris from the perspective of a person who has no interest in being a tourist; nor becoming a fake Parisian. Fun, fun.
13) The Illegal Gardener by Sara Alexi
3 out of 5 -- The protagonist, shortly after a divorce of an overly long, unhappy marriage, leaves England to live in Greece; a fantasy she's had since her early 20s. Her friends think she's mad, her kids think she's mad, and her new Greek neighbors welcome her (in the lightest sense) to the neighborhood. In turn, she takes on an illegal gardener from South-west Asia who teaches her about the depth of the human spirit and truth in friendship. It's a good story, for the genre it belongs to.
14) Constantonpolis by James Shipman
2 out of 5 -- This historical fiction work of the Islamic-Christian fight over Constantinopole/Istanbul is an uneven read of battles, love affairs, egos, and tales of that period. There were moments when I was completely immersed in the storyline, and other where I wished I could turn the pages faster to call it done. Ultimately, it was an un-fulfilling read that I would not recommend.
15) Bossypants by Tina Fey
4 out of 5 -- It's an auto-biography, kinda, of Tina Fey's life through SNL and 30 Rock. It's funny. And if you're not paying attention, might even give you a few life lessons that are a more down to Earth version of Lean In. If you like SNL, female comics, or are just looking for a light read, I recommend it.
16) The Book of Animal Ignorance: Everything You Think You Know Is Wrong by John Mitchinson and John Lloyd
5 out of 5 -- An A-to-Z book about individual stories of the animal kingdom. It tells witty tales about man's first encounter with kangaroos (mouse-colored deer with big feet), to explaining the sexual reproduction habits of many reptiles (fascinating!), to even a brief moment to explain humans. Reading the stories, even with the number of snippets that ended with "and now they are extinct," continuously brought a smile to my face.
17) Packing for MARS: The Curious Science of Life in the Void by Mary Roach
4.5 out of 5 -- This is a book about what it really takes to be an astronaut, what scientists, NASA, Japanese Space Agency, the Soviets, etc are looking for in candidates to be the first people on MARS, and the unglamarous side of being an astronaut. The book is witty, full of fun anecdotes, and had several laugh-out-loud moments as I imagined our space heroes having to really think about some of man-kinds most animalistic-human functions (e.g., poop). Worth a read for people interested in science, but can appreciate it from a journalistic perspective, rather than hard facts. The 0.5 away from 5 stars was mainly because in some parts of the book it felt like she looped back to a prior topic and that pulled me out of the story line.
18) Doctor Sleep by Stephen King
4 out of 5 -- This is a part 2 to The Shining, which I hadn't read, but only have seen the movie years ago. It provided enough of the context, sometimes repetitively, from the prior story that having no previous knowledge of the characters was necessary. It was an interesting concept, uneven in execution, and had a lot of sub-stories within the story that absolutely, 100% pulled me in. The rest, as it reiterated pages from The Shining, or clarified earlier made points, made me yawn and look at the time. Wasn't a favorite but was a good read.
19) A Red Death (Easy Rawlins Mysteries Book 2) by Walter Mosley
2 out of 5 -- I've read a lot of Walter Mosley books and find that his storytelling about Los Angeles (Well, South Central, Watts, and Compton) in the early twentieth century absolutely makes the town come alive. Unfortunately, in this book I didn't find as much of the intrigue and characters themselves coming alive.
20) Dog Shaming by Pascale Lemire
2 out of 5 -- The pictures were cute, but as a "book" it felt more like a marketing piece to get me to go to their website than a unique book purchase.
#) America's UnWritten Consistution by Akhil Reed Amar -- Will not finish0 out of 5 -- Such a disappointment to read this book after really enjoying the first from Professor Amar. The book reads like he hadn't fully organized his thoughts before publishing the book. The primary point is that the Constitution infers that there are certain unenumerated rights by which the American people are entitled, and he attempts to different ways to search for and find those unwritten constitutional principles. I do not recommend.
Showing posts with label Reading. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Reading. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
Monday, April 21, 2014
2014 Book Recommendations (Q1)
1) Strategic Project Management Made Simple by Terry Schmidt
1 out of 5 -- I should've stopped reading the book in the first chapter. I should've stopped reading the book after the fourth instance of the author boasting about the amazing things he made happen (e.g., reduced hunger, built 747s) all because of a project management tool he invented. I'm sure this is an excellent book full of insights, but unfortunately because of the writing style, I found myself more annoyed than inspired.
2) Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
2 out of 5 -- The premise of the book is to remind women in leadership positions to lean in, be active members of the board room, corporate world, career world -- engage and sit at the table. It highlights tons of examples of the places where gender discrimination is prevalent, from the classroom to conference rooms, and how one's gender makes us a "bitch" when assertive or worse when we're not playing by gender norms. Great. Lots of women should read this. (Un)fortunately, I was a women's studies major, so I've read a lot of these books and understand the nunances of why women have it hard. Poor me.
Here's my problem(s) with having been asked to read this by my manager: I'm a black woman, so I can't just pay attention to my womanliness because there are the black stereotypes and ignorances I'm overcoming as well. [That a-hole in the corner may think wonderful things for women's rights, butt still can't tell the difference between myself and Maisha who started last week.] Secondly, not everyone can be a COO/CEO, there's not enough of those jobs to go around; so for those of us who don't make it to the top of the ladder, are we supposed to be defeated? Thirdly, part of the reason I argue women are not successful is also because books don't adequately frame this as a human issue, rather than solely a woman issue. (Tell the men at the table how their unperceived bias is affecting the people around them! They might surprise you.) Lastly, when I wake up every day, I already know that my actions reflect on 60%+ of the population (women~50% plus black people~10%) and that's a lot of pressure. I have to succeed for women, blacks, poor people, disenfranchised, etc., and by the time I've succeeded for the rest of the world, there's no time to actually ask how I wanted to live my life.
I'm glad I read this book solely for the reason that it's in the popular lexicon. However, for all practical purposes, I'd suggest we focus on raising the awareness of bias of both genders and tackle ensuring opportunities exist for those who didn't attend Ivy League universities as well.
3) America's Consistution by Akhil Reed Amar
4 out of 5 -- Awesome. I have a whole new respect for the Founding Framers, who put together the US Consistution. With the Articles of Confederation as a back-drop, English Common Law and Parliament striking down as "the" model for democracy, the writers of the Consistution created an amazingly enduring document that Professor Amar brings to life in this work. The author spells out earnestly what the framers were balancing in the document, provides perspective on how modern and contemporary views differ on the interpretation, and how the short document that is the Constitution has remained relevant through over 200 years. Great read.
4) The 92-Year-Old Lady Who Made Me Steal a Dead Man's Car by Fred Schäfer
1 out of 5 -- Poorly written book. I found that the story was not compelling. The book was about a man, who runs over a man because a "92-year-old woman made him do it", also feels it's his duty to kill rapists in his spare time. My goodness, I was glad what was a side-bar to the story, but could've been a side-bar that never happened. Besides that ridiculousness, he goes to live with the 92-year-old and finds out from her library, literary characters from across time, have been 'coming to life' and requesting parts of their novel be written.
5) The Museum of Literary Souls (A Short Story) by John Connolly
3 out of 5 -- Cute story. Recommended because I had read the 24 Hour Penumbra Bookstore. Not nearly as engaging as that book, nor as bad as the "92-year-old lady..." book. It was an ok read.
6) The Sex Lives of Cannibals: Adrift in the Equatorial Pacific by J Maarten Troost
4 out of 5 -- Travel story about a man and his finance/wife who literally travel to the ends of the world, and what they learned in the process. For anyone who is interested in travel, for those who are involved in non-profits (who want to do good, but may forget that the "good works" need to be appropriate for the local people, not just have worked somewhere else), and anyone who dreams of becoming a beachcomber, this is a nice read.
7) Backpacked: A Reluctant Trip Across Central America by Catherine Ryan Howard
2 out of 5 -- I appreciated the author's honesty about her relectance to travel across Central America having such a broad appreciation for all things consumer, hence I was able to read this book with that perspective firmly planted in my mind. Unfortunately, several times while realizing I was reading a new chapter that seemed to be EXACTLY like the introduction for a different country she visited. Also, maybe it's a sign of my age and becoming an old foogie or maybe I just don't get the humor of the Irish, but I didn't find this book funny. There were a few make me smile moments, certainly recalled memories of my own travel experiences in that region, however, I failed to just lose myself in the story. Instead, I just looked forward to when the kindle would say "Book Complete." And thank goodness it was a AMZ Prime Loan instead of a book I bought. Much less disappointing.
1 out of 5 -- I should've stopped reading the book in the first chapter. I should've stopped reading the book after the fourth instance of the author boasting about the amazing things he made happen (e.g., reduced hunger, built 747s) all because of a project management tool he invented. I'm sure this is an excellent book full of insights, but unfortunately because of the writing style, I found myself more annoyed than inspired.
2) Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
2 out of 5 -- The premise of the book is to remind women in leadership positions to lean in, be active members of the board room, corporate world, career world -- engage and sit at the table. It highlights tons of examples of the places where gender discrimination is prevalent, from the classroom to conference rooms, and how one's gender makes us a "bitch" when assertive or worse when we're not playing by gender norms. Great. Lots of women should read this. (Un)fortunately, I was a women's studies major, so I've read a lot of these books and understand the nunances of why women have it hard. Poor me.
Here's my problem(s) with having been asked to read this by my manager: I'm a black woman, so I can't just pay attention to my womanliness because there are the black stereotypes and ignorances I'm overcoming as well. [That a-hole in the corner may think wonderful things for women's rights, butt still can't tell the difference between myself and Maisha who started last week.] Secondly, not everyone can be a COO/CEO, there's not enough of those jobs to go around; so for those of us who don't make it to the top of the ladder, are we supposed to be defeated? Thirdly, part of the reason I argue women are not successful is also because books don't adequately frame this as a human issue, rather than solely a woman issue. (Tell the men at the table how their unperceived bias is affecting the people around them! They might surprise you.) Lastly, when I wake up every day, I already know that my actions reflect on 60%+ of the population (women~50% plus black people~10%) and that's a lot of pressure. I have to succeed for women, blacks, poor people, disenfranchised, etc., and by the time I've succeeded for the rest of the world, there's no time to actually ask how I wanted to live my life.
I'm glad I read this book solely for the reason that it's in the popular lexicon. However, for all practical purposes, I'd suggest we focus on raising the awareness of bias of both genders and tackle ensuring opportunities exist for those who didn't attend Ivy League universities as well.
3) America's Consistution by Akhil Reed Amar
4 out of 5 -- Awesome. I have a whole new respect for the Founding Framers, who put together the US Consistution. With the Articles of Confederation as a back-drop, English Common Law and Parliament striking down as "the" model for democracy, the writers of the Consistution created an amazingly enduring document that Professor Amar brings to life in this work. The author spells out earnestly what the framers were balancing in the document, provides perspective on how modern and contemporary views differ on the interpretation, and how the short document that is the Constitution has remained relevant through over 200 years. Great read.
4) The 92-Year-Old Lady Who Made Me Steal a Dead Man's Car by Fred Schäfer
1 out of 5 -- Poorly written book. I found that the story was not compelling. The book was about a man, who runs over a man because a "92-year-old woman made him do it", also feels it's his duty to kill rapists in his spare time. My goodness, I was glad what was a side-bar to the story, but could've been a side-bar that never happened. Besides that ridiculousness, he goes to live with the 92-year-old and finds out from her library, literary characters from across time, have been 'coming to life' and requesting parts of their novel be written.
5) The Museum of Literary Souls (A Short Story) by John Connolly
3 out of 5 -- Cute story. Recommended because I had read the 24 Hour Penumbra Bookstore. Not nearly as engaging as that book, nor as bad as the "92-year-old lady..." book. It was an ok read.
6) The Sex Lives of Cannibals: Adrift in the Equatorial Pacific by J Maarten Troost
4 out of 5 -- Travel story about a man and his finance/wife who literally travel to the ends of the world, and what they learned in the process. For anyone who is interested in travel, for those who are involved in non-profits (who want to do good, but may forget that the "good works" need to be appropriate for the local people, not just have worked somewhere else), and anyone who dreams of becoming a beachcomber, this is a nice read.
7) Backpacked: A Reluctant Trip Across Central America by Catherine Ryan Howard
2 out of 5 -- I appreciated the author's honesty about her relectance to travel across Central America having such a broad appreciation for all things consumer, hence I was able to read this book with that perspective firmly planted in my mind. Unfortunately, several times while realizing I was reading a new chapter that seemed to be EXACTLY like the introduction for a different country she visited. Also, maybe it's a sign of my age and becoming an old foogie or maybe I just don't get the humor of the Irish, but I didn't find this book funny. There were a few make me smile moments, certainly recalled memories of my own travel experiences in that region, however, I failed to just lose myself in the story. Instead, I just looked forward to when the kindle would say "Book Complete." And thank goodness it was a AMZ Prime Loan instead of a book I bought. Much less disappointing.
Monday, December 30, 2013
2013 Book Recommendations (December)
Having only read about 24 books last year, I'm proud to have made it to the 40s this year.
37.1) Wool 1 by Hugh Howey
37.2) Wool 2 by Hugh Howey
37.3) Wool 3 by Hugh Howey
37.4) Wool 4 by Hugh Howey
37.5) Wool 5 by Hugh Howey
4.5 out of 5 -- Great short stories. I originally picked up the story because the first book was free on kindle. Now in retrospect, I wish I would've bought the 5-story collection all in one. The storyline unfolds with a community of people who live in a silo*; and when one of those people steps out of line is forced to exit the silo into the toxic waste "to clean". It was a fun set of twists and turns, with each book leaving me clamoring to purchase the next. The only thing that kept it from the full 5 stars was there were some inconsistencies in the books that made it hard to follow, and likewise some slow points in what were short books. Nonetheless, definitely worth a winter-break read!
*I envisioned an grain silo that somehow was built into the ground, instead of above the ground.
38) Why Should the Boss Listen to You by James E. Lukaszewski
4 out of 5 -- I read this book from the perspective 1) do I want the boss to listen to me and 2) do I have anything to say that the boss needs to hear? I walked away with a better appreciation of what Senior Leadership doesn't hear enough about (the candid truth from the front lines) and how I can chose to be someone who helps that get passed along. I also better understand the word "strategic" to be about long-term thinking and setting a vision/mission by which people want to march forward together to achieve. Moreover, understanding that being a person that can think beyond one's staff function (HR, IT, finance, et al) can be extremely valuable insights to those at the top when presenting options helped me further refine how I want to be perceived.
39) A Dirty Job by Christopher Moore
2 out of 5 -- I was totally enjoying this quirky book about a Beta Male, who suddenly finds himself to be "Death" when the love of his life dies shortly after childbirth, until the last few chapters. Set mainly in San Franscisco, there are characters befitting the CA city to the north, with a range of style in personality, in dress, and country of origin. There are loads of twists and cute turns, a few moments that any cultural sensitivist might cringe at, but ultimately left me unfilled with an ending that was far too rushed.
40) Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers by Mary Roach
4 out of 5 : After death, our bodies go on a strange journey. Do we become compost or used in medical labs? Does the FDA govern whether the physical incarnation is 'solid waste' or does our body hold some particular spirit that requires special handling? It was a fascinating read and I would recommend it to others curious about life of our BODIES after death.
41) Concepts and Case Analysis in the Law of Contracts by Marvin A. Chirelstein
5 out of 5 : My purpose for reading this book was to soothe some curiousity on what is covered in law school; since this is a supplemental text for many law schools on contracts it fit the bill.
What I walked away with after reading was a deeper appreciation for the law and the judgements that judges make. Namely, sometimes the judgements are meant to be a lesson for others in that industry to not make the same mistake, some judgements are to make "society" economically whole even if a specific party breached a contract, and sometimes it's just about making sure that there was an agreement in the first place. As the author suggests after reading this book, I walked away with a "healthy skepticism" and "loss of innocence" on what truly makes up our common law. I'm better for it.
37.1) Wool 1 by Hugh Howey
37.2) Wool 2 by Hugh Howey
37.3) Wool 3 by Hugh Howey
37.4) Wool 4 by Hugh Howey
37.5) Wool 5 by Hugh Howey
4.5 out of 5 -- Great short stories. I originally picked up the story because the first book was free on kindle. Now in retrospect, I wish I would've bought the 5-story collection all in one. The storyline unfolds with a community of people who live in a silo*; and when one of those people steps out of line is forced to exit the silo into the toxic waste "to clean". It was a fun set of twists and turns, with each book leaving me clamoring to purchase the next. The only thing that kept it from the full 5 stars was there were some inconsistencies in the books that made it hard to follow, and likewise some slow points in what were short books. Nonetheless, definitely worth a winter-break read!
*I envisioned an grain silo that somehow was built into the ground, instead of above the ground.
38) Why Should the Boss Listen to You by James E. Lukaszewski
4 out of 5 -- I read this book from the perspective 1) do I want the boss to listen to me and 2) do I have anything to say that the boss needs to hear? I walked away with a better appreciation of what Senior Leadership doesn't hear enough about (the candid truth from the front lines) and how I can chose to be someone who helps that get passed along. I also better understand the word "strategic" to be about long-term thinking and setting a vision/mission by which people want to march forward together to achieve. Moreover, understanding that being a person that can think beyond one's staff function (HR, IT, finance, et al) can be extremely valuable insights to those at the top when presenting options helped me further refine how I want to be perceived.
39) A Dirty Job by Christopher Moore
2 out of 5 -- I was totally enjoying this quirky book about a Beta Male, who suddenly finds himself to be "Death" when the love of his life dies shortly after childbirth, until the last few chapters. Set mainly in San Franscisco, there are characters befitting the CA city to the north, with a range of style in personality, in dress, and country of origin. There are loads of twists and cute turns, a few moments that any cultural sensitivist might cringe at, but ultimately left me unfilled with an ending that was far too rushed.
40) Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers by Mary Roach
4 out of 5 : After death, our bodies go on a strange journey. Do we become compost or used in medical labs? Does the FDA govern whether the physical incarnation is 'solid waste' or does our body hold some particular spirit that requires special handling? It was a fascinating read and I would recommend it to others curious about life of our BODIES after death.
41) Concepts and Case Analysis in the Law of Contracts by Marvin A. Chirelstein
5 out of 5 : My purpose for reading this book was to soothe some curiousity on what is covered in law school; since this is a supplemental text for many law schools on contracts it fit the bill.
What I walked away with after reading was a deeper appreciation for the law and the judgements that judges make. Namely, sometimes the judgements are meant to be a lesson for others in that industry to not make the same mistake, some judgements are to make "society" economically whole even if a specific party breached a contract, and sometimes it's just about making sure that there was an agreement in the first place. As the author suggests after reading this book, I walked away with a "healthy skepticism" and "loss of innocence" on what truly makes up our common law. I'm better for it.
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
2013 Book recommendations (October - November)
33) Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
34) Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling
35) Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling
4 of 5 -- why not a 5? Only because I watched the movies ahead of time and I couldn't separate the movies from the books. Secondarily, these are children's books and sometimes the language truly played like a children's book. I loved the fact that the books were all a quick read. But sometimes, I found myself pausing at the simplicity of the writing and that was distracting.
36) Fred Voodoo by Wilentz, Amy 3 of 5 -- The book is about the role outsiders have had on Haiti, how the Haitian people have remained skeptical of the intentions of those outsiders, and the "fault" for the continued "chaos" in Haiti. Unfortunately, the style of this writer immediately rubbed me the wrong way. On one hand, she acknowledges that she is just like the rest of the outsiders, acting in the role of "a white woman" for many individual Haitian; seen as a potential source of funds and escape. Yet, on the other, she writes with a tone of superiority that she can see something that the other do-gooders involved in Haiti can due to her unique historical perspective and depth of knowledge. It's definitely worth a read since she gives a great perspective as Haiti as a future reflection of all of us (rather than being seen through the lenses of victimhood). It's also worth a read to really have one reflect on whether one's giving ACTUALLY helps the intended cause or will just help the donated organization self-perpetuate.
37) Why Should the Boss Listen to You by James E. Lukaszewski (In Progress)
TBD out of 5 -- I'm reading this book from the perspective 1) do I want the boss to listen to me and 2) do I have anything to say that the boss needs to hear? I'm not convinced that I do have something unique to say; but I might.
##) Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers by Mary Roach (In Progress)
This book is on my kindle, which unfortunately has been at my uncle's house since early June. I feel like I will never see it again at this rate.
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
2013 Book recommendations (August-September)
27) The Waste Lands (Dark Tower IV) by Stephen King
4 out of 5 -- Blaine the Pain is totally insane, is the key to the first 10% of the book. This mono is loopy and really keeps our main characters on their toes. Great read! The book then continues the journey, with a hard left turn to rewind back to look at the early life of Roland as a gunslinger apprentice. King has been hinting at this story being key to understanding him; here's the chance to learn why.
28) The Wind through the Keyhole (Dark Tower 4.5) by Stephen King 3 out of 5 -- This book are two short stories combined to fill in the gap between the gunslinger the kid and the gunslinger going off on this long quest. It was a fun story. And felt lighter than the first half of the books. Perhaps this is a result of a change of writing style by S.K. since it was written well after the series was complete.
29) Wolves of the Calla (Dark Tower V) by Stephen King
3 out of 5 -- filler book. I wasn't thrilled with this one.
30) Songs of Susannah (Dark Tower VI) by Stephen King 2 out of 5 -- I have already forgotten what this story really fulfilled other than to move the series along.
31) Dark Tower (Dark Tower VII) by Stephen King
5 out of 5 -- OMG, OMG, OMG. The first ending made me ANGRY. I was ready to fly to Maine and egg S.K.'s cabin door. The second ending was better, at least it ended. Overall, I really enjoyed this book as well as the series. It's quite the rollercoaster.
32) Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim by David Sedaris
3 out of 5 -- David Sedaris is a funny man. I really appreciated this look into his life in Paris, in New England, and gallivanting about with his partner. If you ever felt like an outcast in your family, or perhaps that your family was made up of outcasts from the world, you can appreciate this light-hearted book. There are some somber moments where Sedaris gives a peek into what it was like to be a homosexual male and feeling "different" from others, likewise, how being "cast out" when you're a bum can be translated in so many perspectives! The chapters are rather disconnected and felt less like a cohesive novel than a collection of short stories. Maybe that was the intent. Maybe I ought to have read the back cover to find out. In any case, it was nice light reading in between my book series I'm gobbling up!
4 out of 5 -- Blaine the Pain is totally insane, is the key to the first 10% of the book. This mono is loopy and really keeps our main characters on their toes. Great read! The book then continues the journey, with a hard left turn to rewind back to look at the early life of Roland as a gunslinger apprentice. King has been hinting at this story being key to understanding him; here's the chance to learn why.
28) The Wind through the Keyhole (Dark Tower 4.5) by Stephen King 3 out of 5 -- This book are two short stories combined to fill in the gap between the gunslinger the kid and the gunslinger going off on this long quest. It was a fun story. And felt lighter than the first half of the books. Perhaps this is a result of a change of writing style by S.K. since it was written well after the series was complete.
29) Wolves of the Calla (Dark Tower V) by Stephen King
3 out of 5 -- filler book. I wasn't thrilled with this one.
30) Songs of Susannah (Dark Tower VI) by Stephen King 2 out of 5 -- I have already forgotten what this story really fulfilled other than to move the series along.
31) Dark Tower (Dark Tower VII) by Stephen King
5 out of 5 -- OMG, OMG, OMG. The first ending made me ANGRY. I was ready to fly to Maine and egg S.K.'s cabin door. The second ending was better, at least it ended. Overall, I really enjoyed this book as well as the series. It's quite the rollercoaster.
32) Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim by David Sedaris
3 out of 5 -- David Sedaris is a funny man. I really appreciated this look into his life in Paris, in New England, and gallivanting about with his partner. If you ever felt like an outcast in your family, or perhaps that your family was made up of outcasts from the world, you can appreciate this light-hearted book. There are some somber moments where Sedaris gives a peek into what it was like to be a homosexual male and feeling "different" from others, likewise, how being "cast out" when you're a bum can be translated in so many perspectives! The chapters are rather disconnected and felt less like a cohesive novel than a collection of short stories. Maybe that was the intent. Maybe I ought to have read the back cover to find out. In any case, it was nice light reading in between my book series I'm gobbling up!
Monday, July 29, 2013
2013 Book recommendations (June & July)
22) The Road by Cormac McCarthy
4 out of 5 -- I read it earlier this year, but forgot to mention it. (That's what happens when a book is read and it's not being electronically tracked...I forget!) The book was a bit disturbing. In essence, it's a story about a man and his son after humanity has largely been wiped off the planet. And no, it's not from a zombie apocalypse. Largely a character study, it was a disturbing read into the minds of people living in the last days.
24) The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman
5 out of 5 -- This book put the images directly into my head. After reading the book, I felt like I had been lifted off to a parallel universe and needed a bit of time to return to this plane. The story is of a magical family, that lives down the lane from the protagonist, a young English boy. The story begins when a boarder at the young boy's house is found dead, near the lake and the family's home, in his car under mysterious circumstances. He, and a slightly older girl (11), take on the mystery surrounding this and many other happenings near the lake.
25) The Gunslinger (Dark Tower I) by Stephen King
2 out of 5 -- Yawn. This book frustrated me. I felt like I was reading a story written by a pretentious prick. And it turns out, I was: Stephen King at 19. In any case, the story sets the stage for the next 8 books, which I have heard are fantastic. They better be since I would have never finished this book otherwise.
26) The Drawing of the Three (Dark Tower II) by Stephen King
5 out of 5 -- Fun. Fun! The story takes some crazy twists, jumping into the minds of people (think Being John Malkovich), crazy giant parasite-infected machines which just happen to have gone insane, parallel universes, and a bunch of other twists and turns. Totally made the pain of having read book #1 go away.
26) The Waste Lands (Dark Tower III) by Stephen King
4 out of 5 -- After the thrill ride of book II, this wasn't quite as compelling. Nonetheless, on it's own it's a great book. The characters continue to evolve in their own rights. You understand so much more about their individual stories, which then leads you to appreciate their relationships in this book. The wild characters (e.g., "Blaine the Pain") are delightful introductions and made me wonder what crazy twists would Stephen King introduce with such an unusual amalgamation of powers in one creature. I had to immediately start book four!
##) Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers by Mary Roach (In Progress)
This book is on my kindle, which unfortunately has been at my uncle's house since early June.
Thursday, May 30, 2013
2013 Book recommendations (May)
18) Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency by Douglas Adams
4 out of 5 -- Dirk Gently finds out in college while sleep talking, that he can predict the questions and answers to exams. This is the beginning of his realization of his powers of deduction. Fast forward to adulthood and Mr. Gently is now a detective with a mystery to solve the death of a famous publisher. What makes this story particularly quirky is that a gate has opened to an alternative universe where Electronic Monks were developed to believe on behalf of sentient beings (a time saving device). One of these Electronic Monks, who has had his wires crossed, but can still be convinced to believe anything wholeheartedly, finds himself in our universe and the adventures begin.
19) Annabel Scheme by Robin Sloan 4 out of 5 -- Short mystery of quantum computers reeking havoc on San Francisco, a series of deaths, and a wicked website that allows one to make deals with the devil. Not at all scary, the new world order is helped along by Grail (loosely disguised future version of Google), which can answer questions before a user even knows what s/he wants to ask. Very interesting sci fi mystery.
20) Long Dark Tea-Time of the Soul by Douglas Adams 4 out of 5 -- Great story! Imagine: all of the Gods that humans ever imagined are real. And since they are immortal, they continue living well after we've stopped believing in them. This is a story of a mysterious explosion in Heathrow airport, an unlikely murder of Dirk Gently's client (on the first day of his being hired), and a lost girl. The story is a lot of fun, but the one downside is that the wrap-up/conclusion happens so quickly that it felt unfulfilled after such a great ramp up. Nonetheless, definitely worth a read if you want a fun story. Heck, it was a fun story to share with my aunt on the long road trip to Louisiana!
21)100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson
5 out of 5 -- Fun story about a 100-year-old man, who is living in a retirement home in Sweden, who on his 100th birthday decides he would like to die somewhere other than under the thumb of evil Director Alice and climbs out of the window. From that decision, the book explores the multitude of experiences he had in his life including his start as a blast expert, participation in several wars, meeting sitting US presidents, Chairman Man, Stalin, and a host of other major players in the 20th century.
Monday, April 29, 2013
2013 Reading (March & April)
12) How to Get Filthy Rich in Rising Asia: A novel by Mohsin Hamid
17) The Reluctant Fundamentalist: A novel by Mohsin Hamid
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
2013 Reading (February)
2312 by Kim Stanley Robinson
2 out of 5 -- This was a book recommended by NPR. Unfortunately, the book is verbose. Somewhere between all of the extra words is a good story about the future of our solar system when the planets, satellites, and asteroids have been terraformed by humans. Besides being a science fiction book that explains how we got there, it's also a mystery about a death, series of explosions, and androids which seem to be a bit too quirky.
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
2013 Reading (January)
Dead Until Dark: A Sookie Stackhouse Novel by Charlaine Harris
3 out of 5 -- The downside of reading this book is that I've already seen Season 1 of Trueblood. Twice. So, the fact that the descriptions of the characters isn't all that in depth meant my imagination relied highly on the HBO series instead of the author's characterization. The book is a short read and the first within the series. I may try one more, rented from the library rather than purchased, whether I decide to write off the series.
The Fourth Hand by John Irving
5 out of 5 -- Written by the author of "the world according to garp", the book explores a lot of issues in a very humorous fashion. The protagonist is a television anchor, who sleeps with anyone woman who expresses interest, that loses his hand in a freak lion attack. His replacement hand comes from a woman who pre-ordained her still living husband's hand to this TV anchor. And the story is of the many people (hand surgeon, tv producer, children) that enter into the subject's life before and after the hand loss. If you like quirky stories, that are like The Wonder Years with a darker/funnier twist, then this would be a great read for you.
Another Whole Nother Story by Cuthbert Soup
5 out of 5 -- A children's story about a father (Mr. Cheeseman) and his 3 relatively odor-free children, who are traveling through time to eliminate a curse and save their mother. It's a humorous, tongue-in-cheek work that is fun for young children, as well as those with a young spirit.
Lamb by Christopher Moore
4 out of 5 -- The book is about Jesus Christ missing years. It's a humorous tale, that my more religious friends might take pause with my reading. But as the author stated, "This story is not and never was meant to challenge anyone’s faith; however, if one’s faith can be shaken by stories in a humorous novel, one may have a bit more praying to do." I, fortunately, feel comfortable in my faith and like the idea of my God having had a sense of humor while here on Earth.
3 out of 5 -- The downside of reading this book is that I've already seen Season 1 of Trueblood. Twice. So, the fact that the descriptions of the characters isn't all that in depth meant my imagination relied highly on the HBO series instead of the author's characterization. The book is a short read and the first within the series. I may try one more, rented from the library rather than purchased, whether I decide to write off the series.
The Fourth Hand by John Irving
5 out of 5 -- Written by the author of "the world according to garp", the book explores a lot of issues in a very humorous fashion. The protagonist is a television anchor, who sleeps with anyone woman who expresses interest, that loses his hand in a freak lion attack. His replacement hand comes from a woman who pre-ordained her still living husband's hand to this TV anchor. And the story is of the many people (hand surgeon, tv producer, children) that enter into the subject's life before and after the hand loss. If you like quirky stories, that are like The Wonder Years with a darker/funnier twist, then this would be a great read for you.
Another Whole Nother Story by Cuthbert Soup
5 out of 5 -- A children's story about a father (Mr. Cheeseman) and his 3 relatively odor-free children, who are traveling through time to eliminate a curse and save their mother. It's a humorous, tongue-in-cheek work that is fun for young children, as well as those with a young spirit.
Lamb by Christopher Moore
4 out of 5 -- The book is about Jesus Christ missing years. It's a humorous tale, that my more religious friends might take pause with my reading. But as the author stated, "This story is not and never was meant to challenge anyone’s faith; however, if one’s faith can be shaken by stories in a humorous novel, one may have a bit more praying to do." I, fortunately, feel comfortable in my faith and like the idea of my God having had a sense of humor while here on Earth.
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Reading 2012 (Q2-4)
The Giver by Lois Lowry
4 of 5 --- I really enjoyed this book, but unfortunately the ending left me with a sour taste so I had to give the book a lower rating. Likely, I learned later, it was because the book is a trilogy. The book chronicles a young child who grows up in a town that is focused on sameness. As a result, people take political correctness to an extreme, families dialogue each day according to a set script, individuals are assigned jobs best suited to their skills and disposition based on the wisdom of elders and everything in the town is quite orderly and nice. The book takes a major turn when the protagonist learners that his role will be to be the receiver of memories; and what a life he will lead!
How to Get into Law School by Susan Estrich
5 of 5 -- A realistic view, from a Harvard Law Professor, on what qualities it takes to get into and some hints at how to be successful in the first year.
Better Reasoning: Techniques for Handling Argument, Evidence, and Abstraction by Larry Wright
4 of 5
I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell by Tucker Max
5 of 5 -- My inner frat boy loved reading this book. Which means I would not recommend it to most people.
The Leftovers by Tom Perrotta
Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins
Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins
My Man Jeeves by P. G. (Pelham Grenville) Wodehouse
4 of 5 -- Such a fun book! It's a series of short stories of how a Butler, named Jeeves, comes to the "rescue" of the protagonist's friends. I enjoyed it so much, I've downloaded the other books by the author.
5 of 5 -- This story is short, sweet, and to the point, with a good surprise ending. It's set in the future when death has been cured and a form of utopia has been established....
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Reading 2012 (Q1)
- Brains: A Zombie Memoir by Robin Becker
- Simon Says by Grace Loraza
- The Adventure of the Cardboard Box by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
- His Last Bow by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
- The Valley of Fear by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
- Round the Red Lamp by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
- Dishwasher by Peter Jordan
5 of 5 --- made me want to quit my job and travel across the country washes dishes. The air of freedom, the ability to explore unexpected places, and the chance to meet great characters. Until I remembered, I wouldn't be down for sleeping in a van or not showering for days. - What Got You Here, Wont Get You There by Marshall Goldsmith
5 of 5 -- Great book for A-type personalities who have excelled to a certain point in their career and now will transition towards leading others. The higher up the echelon one becomes, the more these personality traits could keep you from reaching the next level. Great career book. - White Girl Problems by Babe Walker
4 of 5 -- living in Los Angeles, I imagine there are a lot of white girls with these problems. I wish I had these sorts of problems. OK, actually, no I don't. - Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
5 of 5 -- great fantasy read - The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Reading (December 2011)
#31) The Adventure of the Red Circle by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
This was a great story that was a reminder of the importance of loyalty. We, in today's world, often will turn our backs on our oaths. Whereas here, this oath lead to death, cross-continental chases, through generations, to ensure payback. Keep your promises people!
#32) The Disappearance of Lady Frances Carfax by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Enjoyed this particular story because Holmes played a stronger role, and there was activity on the European continent. It was quite the adventure to leave the streets of 19th century London to read and almost be able to smell and taste the sights of the Paris.
#33) The Adventure of the Dying Detective by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
This was a great story that was a reminder of the importance of loyalty. We, in today's world, often will turn our backs on our oaths. Whereas here, this oath lead to death, cross-continental chases, through generations, to ensure payback. Keep your promises people!
#32) The Disappearance of Lady Frances Carfax by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Enjoyed this particular story because Holmes played a stronger role, and there was activity on the European continent. It was quite the adventure to leave the streets of 19th century London to read and almost be able to smell and taste the sights of the Paris.
#33) The Adventure of the Dying Detective by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Nothing remarkable to speak on regarding these two stories. Although I would like to note that despite reading so many Sherlock Holmes stories, I did not happen upon the one that was most recently released in the theaters. Strange how that happens.
#35) World War Z: An Oral History of the Zombie War by Max Brooks (5 out of 5)
Awesome. Besides just being a book about zombies, it also can be read as a social commentary on what aspects we find of value in our modern society and how disconnected they are from the tangible realities of what we need as human beings to survive.
With those books, I exceeded my new year's resolution in reading for 2011. I'm glad I made it, because I was really cutting it close in those last few months of reading!
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Reading (October 2011, November 2011)
#25) The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Again, thanks to Dean for recommending I read Sherlock Holmes. This is a really enjoyed this story. Particularly since this was a longer story than many of the others.#26) The Return of Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
#27) The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
#28) Tales of Terror and Mystery by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
#29) The Adventure of Devil's Foot by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
#30) The Sign of the Four by Sir Arthur Conan DoyleFor all of these books, the recommendation is the same. Awesome read. Definitely work the time. Totally engaging.#31) Thinner Thighs In Thirty Years by Consuelo Saah Baeh
I didn't like this book. It was super short. And I almost feel like it shouldn't count toward the 34 for the year. Sunday, October 16, 2011
Reading (September 2011)
#15) Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy - Continued to be on Pause.
#23) The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable by Patrick Lencioni
This was a delightful read in order to think about what are the things that makes a group of individuals turn into a team. It really helped me focus on what I am doing to hurt, rather than help, the team that I am on. My biggest fault? I think of people as individuals rather than focusing on how to strengthen the collective. A slightly different take. Now, the need is to figure out why I default in that fashion.
I believe my original goal was to read 34 books in the 2011 calendar year. I better get moving if I want to make this goal!
#21) Allan and the Holy Flower by Henry Rider Haggard
Good book about an adventurer in the 1800s who travels to Africa in search of a Holy Flower. There are several surprising twists and turns. And the way the author writes about encounters with Arab Slave traders is fascinating to get in the head of the times. I want to read additional stories by this author.#22) Alice's Adventure's in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
What a fun read! Of course I know the story from the cartoon, as well as the new version with Johnny Depp. But it was such a different experience to read the story. I never would have suspected that the story was so short.#23) The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable by Patrick Lencioni
This was a delightful read in order to think about what are the things that makes a group of individuals turn into a team. It really helped me focus on what I am doing to hurt, rather than help, the team that I am on. My biggest fault? I think of people as individuals rather than focusing on how to strengthen the collective. A slightly different take. Now, the need is to figure out why I default in that fashion.
#24) The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
I love, love, love Sherlock Holmes. Strangely, reading this book made me want to watch the television show and hope that there will be more versions of the movie coming out. Unlike the Tolstoy book, I totally understand why this set of books are classics! Many thanks to Dean for telling me about the read. I believe my original goal was to read 34 books in the 2011 calendar year. I better get moving if I want to make this goal!
Monday, August 29, 2011
Reading (Summer 2011)
My reading for the summer has mainly been put on pause. I've transitioned into reading magazines (Wired, Budget Travel, Latin Finance, and others) as well as writing letters to my cousin. But, with a vacation being planned for next month and the year coming to a close, it's time I get back into the swing of things to complete the final 10.5 books.
#15) Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy - On Pause
This book is on pause until I can remember to charge my Kindle.
#17) A Scattered Life by Karen McQuestion - Complete -- Good Reflective Read for those Looking to find the "Best" Way to Raise Children
This book made me cry. On the surface, this is a story about two parental structures raising their families in Wisconsin. On one side, there is a mother and father with a very structured lifestyle, who has a boisterous family move onto the other side of their home. The interactions of these families raise up new learnings for both about the importance of family in the grand scheme of things.
#18) The Girl Who Fell from the Sky by Heidi Durrow - Complete -- Excellent Particularly for those interested in Race Dynamics in the US
The story is of a little girl whose Danish mother struggled to raise her and her younger brothers and sisters as a black person in America. A mother who struggled with the concept of race, and the outside influences believing she could not possibly love her children in quite the right way because of their skin color. Due to a tragedy, the little girl is forced to move to Portland with her grandparents, and speaks to the differences in color that she learned about through that experience.
#19) The Psychopath Test: A Journey Through the Madness Industry by Jon Ronson - Complete -- Both Informative and Entertaining
Great read! The book is a good reminder that there is a thin line between an effective senior leader and a complete psychopath. It takes some level of megalomania to believe in yourself enough to think you can rule others, but also a certain level of humility to not turn into a dictator as a result. The book chronicles the lives of the therapists, mental researchers, and patients/former patients who have been treated as being psychopaths. What was most fascinating to me, was the actual psychopath test itself, and how psychopaths can learn to hide some of their tells to better integrate.
#20) The Skin I'm In by Sharon G Flake - Complete
A book probably intended for black pre-teens and teenagers, who are grappling with bullying and differences within their community. It highlights the color consciousness within the community, the challenges teachers in the inner city are faced with when teaching these children, and struggles kids are going through just to survive in their environment. The story is written from the point of view of a girl who is being teased about being "dark-skinned," paralleled against a new teacher from the corporate world who is working to implement accountability and reform within the school, despite skin challenges of her own (pigmentation coloration issues on one side of her face). Ultimately, it is a story of becoming comfortable in one's own body, and recognizing that individuals of all shapes, sizes, and ages are grappling with those same concerns.
#15) Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy - On Pause
This book is on pause until I can remember to charge my Kindle.
#17) A Scattered Life by Karen McQuestion - Complete -- Good Reflective Read for those Looking to find the "Best" Way to Raise Children
This book made me cry. On the surface, this is a story about two parental structures raising their families in Wisconsin. On one side, there is a mother and father with a very structured lifestyle, who has a boisterous family move onto the other side of their home. The interactions of these families raise up new learnings for both about the importance of family in the grand scheme of things.
#18) The Girl Who Fell from the Sky by Heidi Durrow - Complete -- Excellent Particularly for those interested in Race Dynamics in the US
The story is of a little girl whose Danish mother struggled to raise her and her younger brothers and sisters as a black person in America. A mother who struggled with the concept of race, and the outside influences believing she could not possibly love her children in quite the right way because of their skin color. Due to a tragedy, the little girl is forced to move to Portland with her grandparents, and speaks to the differences in color that she learned about through that experience.
#19) The Psychopath Test: A Journey Through the Madness Industry by Jon Ronson - Complete -- Both Informative and Entertaining
Great read! The book is a good reminder that there is a thin line between an effective senior leader and a complete psychopath. It takes some level of megalomania to believe in yourself enough to think you can rule others, but also a certain level of humility to not turn into a dictator as a result. The book chronicles the lives of the therapists, mental researchers, and patients/former patients who have been treated as being psychopaths. What was most fascinating to me, was the actual psychopath test itself, and how psychopaths can learn to hide some of their tells to better integrate.
#20) The Skin I'm In by Sharon G Flake - Complete
A book probably intended for black pre-teens and teenagers, who are grappling with bullying and differences within their community. It highlights the color consciousness within the community, the challenges teachers in the inner city are faced with when teaching these children, and struggles kids are going through just to survive in their environment. The story is written from the point of view of a girl who is being teased about being "dark-skinned," paralleled against a new teacher from the corporate world who is working to implement accountability and reform within the school, despite skin challenges of her own (pigmentation coloration issues on one side of her face). Ultimately, it is a story of becoming comfortable in one's own body, and recognizing that individuals of all shapes, sizes, and ages are grappling with those same concerns.
#21) Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies by Jared Diamond -- First Stab
I got started on this book, but will have to re-start since that was more than a month ago. Highlighting the book here so it is not lost in the shuffle.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Reading 2011 (April)
#15) Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy - Continuing
Long Russian winters, lack of internet, drudgery and sadness -- none of this makes me believe that folks actually enjoyed this book. Yes, the cheating wives, jealous husbands, playboys and playgirls continue in this epic novel. I continue to read it, despite not enjoying it, just because at this point, it's a test of willpower. Unfortunately, it's length my stop me from being able to hit my 30+ book reading target for the year.
#16) Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard by Chip Heath and Dan Heath - Finished
Anyone who spent time with me in April probably heard me refer to this book. It talks about the underlying premise of how to make change within your self, an organization, a child, a school, a community, and more using a simply analogy throughout the book. We're all of two minds. The id/ego/superego fights and arbitration of Freud. Our emotional side, our rational side. This book uses the analogy of an Elephant being our emotional side, and the rider being the rational side; and the importance of addressing the logic of the rider, the passion of the elephant, and clearing the path for both to get to where you want to go. If you have a kid who doesn't seem to want to listen, a set of team members who seem not to want to work together, or a challenging husband who won't pick up his stinky underwear, this is a great book. It's an easy read, uses great examples, and clearly states that this is not a "one size fits all," but certainly shines a new light on the possibilities of change when put through a new framework.
Long Russian winters, lack of internet, drudgery and sadness -- none of this makes me believe that folks actually enjoyed this book. Yes, the cheating wives, jealous husbands, playboys and playgirls continue in this epic novel. I continue to read it, despite not enjoying it, just because at this point, it's a test of willpower. Unfortunately, it's length my stop me from being able to hit my 30+ book reading target for the year.
#16) Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard by Chip Heath and Dan Heath - Finished
Anyone who spent time with me in April probably heard me refer to this book. It talks about the underlying premise of how to make change within your self, an organization, a child, a school, a community, and more using a simply analogy throughout the book. We're all of two minds. The id/ego/superego fights and arbitration of Freud. Our emotional side, our rational side. This book uses the analogy of an Elephant being our emotional side, and the rider being the rational side; and the importance of addressing the logic of the rider, the passion of the elephant, and clearing the path for both to get to where you want to go. If you have a kid who doesn't seem to want to listen, a set of team members who seem not to want to work together, or a challenging husband who won't pick up his stinky underwear, this is a great book. It's an easy read, uses great examples, and clearly states that this is not a "one size fits all," but certainly shines a new light on the possibilities of change when put through a new framework.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Reading 2011 (March)
#13) Whispers of the Bayou by Mindy Starns Clark- Finished
This book is about a woman, born in Louisiana who is taken to New York to be raised by her aunt after a series of tragedies at her family estate. The book really gets started as she returns to the estate, at the beckoning of the dying, lifelong groundskeeper of her grandparents. The protagonist, who realizes that she has been living her life as if she's in plexi-glass separated by the world, spends her time learning about her roots, and in the process re-connects to herself. I found the book to be quite entertaining, though the interjection of God 2/3rds in the book felt a bit disingenuous, but by not thinking too hard about it, I found it a great read. Mainly, because it was a book of self-exploration set in the tones of a set of murder mystery, with some added tidbits of historical fiction of Cajun life. #14) The Scattered Life by Karen McQuestion - Finished
Originally, a self-published Kindle e-book, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this quick read. It's about a woman, whose mother dies when she is really little and ends up wandering the US with her father from town-to-town, but finds herself living in Wisconsin studying art at a local college. On a fluke, she meets an unlikely husband who is as uncomfortable with change is she is to stability. The book is really about the relationships of several woman: the female protagonist, her overly controlling mother-in-law, and a free spirited new neighbor who has 5 rowdy boys but is dreaming of someday having 12 kids. Completely different women, with different perspectives on what it means to "live" life, it was great to read to inspire my own reflection on how view what is the right or wrong way to live life. #15) Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy - Incomplete
I've been trying to finish this book all month. BUT, it's just AWFUL. It's like a G-rated Jerry Springer show: with cheating wives, illegitimate pregnancies, the dating scene, and the playboy life of military men. Unfortunately, it is written in a style that doesn't directly mention any of these things; they are only inferred. It's painful to read. I can't understand why this ever would have been considered a "classic" other than it's old. Nonetheless, I'm up to Part IV of the book, though not even 50% through. Yet, I continue to try to convince myself that it must somehow end better. Either that, or a whole lot of English teachers just had really bad taste! We'll see if this book ever gets finished, or if it falls to the wayside like the Color of Family did.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Story Telling
I went to an event with Makisha Lawerence this weekend in North Hollywood. To get there, I took *gasp* public transportation. That's right, this grown woman who owns a vehicle, has money for gas, whose insurance and registration is paid decided to forgo her car to take the blue line to the red line to go to a writers meet-up event.
It turned out to be a great, intimate event with various authors. The first was the author of What was I thinking: 58 Bad Boyfriend Stories. She shared excerpts of her book that have been integrated with video and pictures. It was quite entertaining! There was also the author of Diary of Beverly Hills Matchmaker. Some of the authors were funny, some were interesting, the MC just seemed to love to hear himself talk. Towards the end, there was even a psychic, named Voxx, who said she writes what the voices tell her. She jokingly said, "I wonder what is the difference between me being psychic and psycho" while she chuckled to self, the rest of us squirmed uncomfortably in our chairs. When she suggested we close our eyes to listen to her read, I was convinced that she was going to rob us! Of course, nothing of the sort occurred, but it was still entertaining. I came away from the event entertained, and with some new ideas of how to help my Uncle Jake get his writing project published.
The ride home on the train was pleasant. In every other city that I travel, I spend a lot of time taking public transportation. Here in LA, I generally only take it to and from work. But after this lovely evening, I came home, read a bit, played some poker, and ended up getting my first full night's sleep in months. I'd guess that the sleep came from having peace in my heart, the knowledge of friendship, and the clarity that things are all alright.
It turned out to be a great, intimate event with various authors. The first was the author of What was I thinking: 58 Bad Boyfriend Stories. She shared excerpts of her book that have been integrated with video and pictures. It was quite entertaining! There was also the author of Diary of Beverly Hills Matchmaker. Some of the authors were funny, some were interesting, the MC just seemed to love to hear himself talk. Towards the end, there was even a psychic, named Voxx, who said she writes what the voices tell her. She jokingly said, "I wonder what is the difference between me being psychic and psycho" while she chuckled to self, the rest of us squirmed uncomfortably in our chairs. When she suggested we close our eyes to listen to her read, I was convinced that she was going to rob us! Of course, nothing of the sort occurred, but it was still entertaining. I came away from the event entertained, and with some new ideas of how to help my Uncle Jake get his writing project published.
The ride home on the train was pleasant. In every other city that I travel, I spend a lot of time taking public transportation. Here in LA, I generally only take it to and from work. But after this lovely evening, I came home, read a bit, played some poker, and ended up getting my first full night's sleep in months. I'd guess that the sleep came from having peace in my heart, the knowledge of friendship, and the clarity that things are all alright.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Reading 2011 (February)
#8) The Girl Who Kick the Hornets Nest by Steig Larsson - Finished
This is the third book in the series, with a very interesting plot. Although I noted that the author rehashed the same points in the story, with the same words from chapter-to-chapter, by the second half of the both I was LOVING this storyline. By the end of the story, I was yearning for more works to read by this author. It's an incredible tragedy that this was the last of his series. #9) The King of Lies by John Hart
I read this book over the weekend before Valentine's Day and my heart was hurting by all of the story lines of unfilled love. The book is a mystery set in North Carolina focused on an overbearing father, who went missing the same evening his wife was found dead. 18 months later the father's body is found, a victim of a murder, and questions arise as to who are suspects. Moreover, the notions of family loyalties are explored between blood relations, lovers, marriages, and friendships and defining what relationship trumps something else.#11) The Last Child by John Hart
As my Indian Friends would say, I liked this book too much. It's a story about a child whose twin sister was kidnapped. In the wake of the kidnapping, the cop following the case becomes a little too obsessed; his mother loses her grip on reality and consequently falls under the control of a rich-pill pushing, small-town power monger who does all he can to humiliate her. It's certainly a suspense thriller that kept me interested throughout the read. #12) Bitter is the New Black by Jen Lancaster
I read last year another of J. Lancaster's books while I was in Peru last year. I found the book to be quite light hearted, and I appreciated the cynicism of her perspective. In this earlier book, she chronicles her nearly two years of being unemployed post-dot-com, post-9/11 in Chicago. She lays out the excesses of her overly paid corporate job to her fail to desperateness and having to sell her prized possessions (Prada purses, designer-custom shades, and other designer goods). This is a light read. One that would be better suited on the beach, than being read a conference. Nonetheless, it's a good reminder that the stuff that clutters our lives is never as important as the people we love, and the dreams that sustain us.#13) Color of Family - No Progress since January
This book is about the color lines. It's told from the perspective of the twin sister of the possible baby daddy of a famous musician. This is only important because the child, who was raised by his white mother, was told that his bio dad was also white. Yet, the child had always had inclinations (e.g., slightly kinky hair) that something about his genetic profile didn't add up to being 100% white.
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