The Elegant Universe – Brian Greene
I have finally finished this book! And I’m pretty sure that theoretical physics still makes absolutely no sense to me. The book is well-written, the language accessible, and Greene backtracks fantastically so that you don’t have to flip back to see what he’s talking about, but I feel like I need “Physics for Dummies” for Dummies. But what I actually understood? Yeah. I am unashamedly in love with physics.
I have finally finished this book! And I’m pretty sure that theoretical physics still makes absolutely no sense to me. The book is well-written, the language accessible, and Greene backtracks fantastically so that you don’t have to flip back to see what he’s talking about, but I feel like I need “Physics for Dummies” for Dummies. But what I actually understood? Yeah. I am unashamedly in love with physics.
The Twilight of the Idols – Friedrich Nietzsche
Okay, so. Nietzsche is always a mixed bag for me. On the one hand, he makes a lot of points that I find myself agreeing with (either easily or after a long and grudging mental battle). On the other, he says at one point that this book is all about being constructive, but spends ¾ of his pages bashing EVERYTHING (in the most epic way possible). And he’s got that whole “everything before me was useless” philosopher thing going on, and is quite the misogynist. On a whole, though, I do like him. And I liked this significantly more than Zarathustra.
Okay, so. Nietzsche is always a mixed bag for me. On the one hand, he makes a lot of points that I find myself agreeing with (either easily or after a long and grudging mental battle). On the other, he says at one point that this book is all about being constructive, but spends ¾ of his pages bashing EVERYTHING (in the most epic way possible). And he’s got that whole “everything before me was useless” philosopher thing going on, and is quite the misogynist. On a whole, though, I do like him. And I liked this significantly more than Zarathustra.
The Red Tent – Anita Diamant
Oh, dear heavens. I love Bible stories, and this retelling of Dinah’s story fit perfectly with that love. The characters were all exactly as I’d imagined them from reading the actual Bible (with the exceptions of Joseph and Rebecca), and of course I cried – only the second book of the summer to make me do so – and! Just. A truly amazing book.
Oh, dear heavens. I love Bible stories, and this retelling of Dinah’s story fit perfectly with that love. The characters were all exactly as I’d imagined them from reading the actual Bible (with the exceptions of Joseph and Rebecca), and of course I cried – only the second book of the summer to make me do so – and! Just. A truly amazing book.
Shogun – James Clavell
Unlike most other 1100+ page books I’ve read, this one kept me rapt the entire time. It’s clear that Clavell has a firm grasp of Japanese society in the 16th century, as well as an exceedingly cunning mind, to plan out all the twists and turns and changing strategies of the major players. My only issue? No emotion. I loved the book, but it still remained a book for me, and I had no emotional connection to anyone or any particular chain of events. But it was really, really good nonetheless.
Unlike most other 1100+ page books I’ve read, this one kept me rapt the entire time. It’s clear that Clavell has a firm grasp of Japanese society in the 16th century, as well as an exceedingly cunning mind, to plan out all the twists and turns and changing strategies of the major players. My only issue? No emotion. I loved the book, but it still remained a book for me, and I had no emotional connection to anyone or any particular chain of events. But it was really, really good nonetheless.
Harem – Barbara Nadel
So this was not the best-written book in the world - there were some seriously wacky sentences, a few typos (TYPOS), and it was rather stilted at times, but I enjoyed it. The plot was intense and interesting, and none of the twists were terribly outrageous. And, really, the dark underworld of Turkey is NOT dull subject matter. I got mixed up with characters because everyone had similar names, though.
So this was not the best-written book in the world - there were some seriously wacky sentences, a few typos (TYPOS), and it was rather stilted at times, but I enjoyed it. The plot was intense and interesting, and none of the twists were terribly outrageous. And, really, the dark underworld of Turkey is NOT dull subject matter. I got mixed up with characters because everyone had similar names, though.
The Book of Atrix Wolfe – Patricia A. McKillip
McKillip’s writing always has this dreamy feel. The half-asleep sense of a fantasy world that colours her stories with a mystical beauty, and this book was no exception. The story itself? Impossible to put down. The Celtic elements were well woven in, the magic and desolate beauty of loss incredible, and the main character has glasses. Need we be surprised that I enjoyed this book?
McKillip’s writing always has this dreamy feel. The half-asleep sense of a fantasy world that colours her stories with a mystical beauty, and this book was no exception. The story itself? Impossible to put down. The Celtic elements were well woven in, the magic and desolate beauty of loss incredible, and the main character has glasses. Need we be surprised that I enjoyed this book?
The Wasteland - T.S.Eliot
I have to say, I’ve now read this poem-book-thing about 40 times, and I still don’t get it as a whole. I get sections of it (I think), but I’m having trouble grasping a cohesive overall...something. But I’ll keep trying. It’s not like I’m madly in love with Eliot’s writing and would marry his words if I could or anything like that. WHAT THE HECK, WRITERS. WHY AREN’T MORE OF YOU THIS AWESOME?
I have to say, I’ve now read this poem-book-thing about 40 times, and I still don’t get it as a whole. I get sections of it (I think), but I’m having trouble grasping a cohesive overall...something. But I’ll keep trying. It’s not like I’m madly in love with Eliot’s writing and would marry his words if I could or anything like that. WHAT THE HECK, WRITERS. WHY AREN’T MORE OF YOU THIS AWESOME?
Dune – Frank Herbert
I have to say, I’ve cut back on my scifi diet of late because it’s all so crappy. Herbert might just have restored my faith in the genre. THIS is well-written, emotionally thrilling, well-thought-out, and stunningly put together science fiction. AND IT IS A SERIES. Honestly, though, no matter the genre, I would count this as a Good Quality Book. Not quite a favourite, but up there.
I have to say, I’ve cut back on my scifi diet of late because it’s all so crappy. Herbert might just have restored my faith in the genre. THIS is well-written, emotionally thrilling, well-thought-out, and stunningly put together science fiction. AND IT IS A SERIES. Honestly, though, no matter the genre, I would count this as a Good Quality Book. Not quite a favourite, but up there.
Ender’s Game – Orson Scott Card
Oh. I can’t say I’ve been this emotionally tied to a book in a while. There were elements that weren’t well executed and elements missing and elements out of place, but perhaps it was the imperfections that made me fall genuinely in love with this book. And now I have to read the rest of them.
Oh. I can’t say I’ve been this emotionally tied to a book in a while. There were elements that weren’t well executed and elements missing and elements out of place, but perhaps it was the imperfections that made me fall genuinely in love with this book. And now I have to read the rest of them.
Mister Monday – Garth Nix
Gotta say, I love Garth Nix's children's books, although Ragwitch was a major disappointment. The Keys to the Kingdom series is proving to be as enjoyable as The Abhorsen Chronicles were, with well-developed characters and well-timed twists and enough mystery to keep one going. And, of course, the universes that Nix conceives are always really, really cool.
Gotta say, I love Garth Nix's children's books, although Ragwitch was a major disappointment. The Keys to the Kingdom series is proving to be as enjoyable as The Abhorsen Chronicles were, with well-developed characters and well-timed twists and enough mystery to keep one going. And, of course, the universes that Nix conceives are always really, really cool.
Nostromo - Joseph Conrad
It took way too long to finish this book. I don’t understand Conrad, I don’t think. I mean, his writing is pretty good – I don’t have any problems with it – but this story was sooooo boring. And essentially nonexistent – most of the time, I had no idea what was happening, and he did that Dickens thing where there’s too much background detail that nobody needs and would be interesting if it were properly organized. I really hope this satisfies my Conrad quota for the rest of my life.
It took way too long to finish this book. I don’t understand Conrad, I don’t think. I mean, his writing is pretty good – I don’t have any problems with it – but this story was sooooo boring. And essentially nonexistent – most of the time, I had no idea what was happening, and he did that Dickens thing where there’s too much background detail that nobody needs and would be interesting if it were properly organized. I really hope this satisfies my Conrad quota for the rest of my life.
Howard’s End - E.M. Forster
I kept expecting a big to-do over who would inherit Howard’s End. But apparently not. I was a trifle disappointed, but besides that, the book was excellent. Impossible to put down, witty and wry and philosophical and rather progressive for its time...I honestly can’t think of anything I would have liked to have seen differently, except perhaps to not have had been misinformed about it before reading.
I kept expecting a big to-do over who would inherit Howard’s End. But apparently not. I was a trifle disappointed, but besides that, the book was excellent. Impossible to put down, witty and wry and philosophical and rather progressive for its time...I honestly can’t think of anything I would have liked to have seen differently, except perhaps to not have had been misinformed about it before reading.
The Jew in the Lotus – Roger Kammertz
What do you get when a spectrum-in-miniature of Judaism travel to Dharamsala to share the secrets of Jewish survival with the Dalai Lama? This book. Which is quirky and fun, if heavy on the Jewish stereotypes and light on the research into Tibetan Buddhism. I...don’t know if I’d recommend it? It was enjoyable, but somehow didn’t live up to what I expected from it.
What do you get when a spectrum-in-miniature of Judaism travel to Dharamsala to share the secrets of Jewish survival with the Dalai Lama? This book. Which is quirky and fun, if heavy on the Jewish stereotypes and light on the research into Tibetan Buddhism. I...don’t know if I’d recommend it? It was enjoyable, but somehow didn’t live up to what I expected from it.
The Unlikely Disciple – Kevin Roose
First of all, this man is a personable, enjoyable writer. The book itself is a measured, balanced, honest, and overwhelmingly compassionate portrait of conservative fundamentalist Christianity; the evolution of the outsider-turned-insider’s perspective on Christian culture was refreshing. I have huge, huge respect for this book. Everyone should read it.
First of all, this man is a personable, enjoyable writer. The book itself is a measured, balanced, honest, and overwhelmingly compassionate portrait of conservative fundamentalist Christianity; the evolution of the outsider-turned-insider’s perspective on Christian culture was refreshing. I have huge, huge respect for this book. Everyone should read it.
The Sparrow – Maria Doria Russell
Uhm. Words fail. I have rarely been so entranced by a book. There was nothing that I didn’t like: the writing was superb, the organization of the story was creative and well-executed, the blend of history and science fiction perfect, the characters well-rounded and believable, the balance between dialogue and description excellent...and the story itself was absolutely captivating. Jesuits + life on other planets = WIN.
Uhm. Words fail. I have rarely been so entranced by a book. There was nothing that I didn’t like: the writing was superb, the organization of the story was creative and well-executed, the blend of history and science fiction perfect, the characters well-rounded and believable, the balance between dialogue and description excellent...and the story itself was absolutely captivating. Jesuits + life on other planets = WIN.
Death to the Landlords - Ellis Peters
Ellis Peters is in love with India, that much is clear from this book. And her writing style is personable enough, and, truth be told, I liked the book much more than I usually like Detective&Mystery novels. Maybe that’s because there was very little time spent actually sleuthing – and I’m not sure where the time went, because it didn’t go to much character development either. I think I enjoyed it so much because I, too, have fallen in love with India.
Ellis Peters is in love with India, that much is clear from this book. And her writing style is personable enough, and, truth be told, I liked the book much more than I usually like Detective&Mystery novels. Maybe that’s because there was very little time spent actually sleuthing – and I’m not sure where the time went, because it didn’t go to much character development either. I think I enjoyed it so much because I, too, have fallen in love with India.
The Year of Our War - Steph Swainston
While at the beginning I was unsure of how I felt, this book turned out to be a pleasantly anachronistic mix of the fantastic and the pseudo-historic. Main complaint? First-person narrative really detracts from the story. But I love the complexity and thoroughness of her created world, and I am fond of her characters. I will read the rest of the trilogy for sure.
While at the beginning I was unsure of how I felt, this book turned out to be a pleasantly anachronistic mix of the fantastic and the pseudo-historic. Main complaint? First-person narrative really detracts from the story. But I love the complexity and thoroughness of her created world, and I am fond of her characters. I will read the rest of the trilogy for sure.
No Present Like Time - Steph Swainston
Okay. So. I like it enough that I’m reading the next book, but, for serious, this was really a rather mediocre book. The concepts are AWESOME and poorly executed, and there’s not enough detail on anything, and there’s not much character development and I could totally see everything in the plot coming from a mile away, except for the out-of-nowhere ending which made little sense. I still love this series conceptually, though, and I’m hoping the third book lives up to the writing excellence of the fight scenes in this one.
Okay. So. I like it enough that I’m reading the next book, but, for serious, this was really a rather mediocre book. The concepts are AWESOME and poorly executed, and there’s not enough detail on anything, and there’s not much character development and I could totally see everything in the plot coming from a mile away, except for the out-of-nowhere ending which made little sense. I still love this series conceptually, though, and I’m hoping the third book lives up to the writing excellence of the fight scenes in this one.
The Modern World- Steph Swainston
Swainston’s strengths are her vibrant imagination and her incredibly vivid descriptive. This book had an actual, identifiable climax, and an almost-not-cheating way out, and an ending that I only saw coming a few chapters in advance of it happening. So, points for Evolving as a Writer, anyway, and I have to say that I mostly enjoyed this series.
Swainston’s strengths are her vibrant imagination and her incredibly vivid descriptive. This book had an actual, identifiable climax, and an almost-not-cheating way out, and an ending that I only saw coming a few chapters in advance of it happening. So, points for Evolving as a Writer, anyway, and I have to say that I mostly enjoyed this series.
Neuromancer – William Gibson
Trippy, trippy book. I think I need to re-read it to be sure, but I’m almost positive that I thoroughly enjoyed it. The future Gibson describes is intricate and twisty and superbly crafted, the characters, while neither particularly sympathetic nor particularly relatable, were well-executed and kept true to themselves, and there’s just enough elaboration on everything for that pleasant curiosity to last. Also it was really trippy.
Trippy, trippy book. I think I need to re-read it to be sure, but I’m almost positive that I thoroughly enjoyed it. The future Gibson describes is intricate and twisty and superbly crafted, the characters, while neither particularly sympathetic nor particularly relatable, were well-executed and kept true to themselves, and there’s just enough elaboration on everything for that pleasant curiosity to last. Also it was really trippy.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo – Stieg Larssen
Since it came highly recommended by many people including my favourite professor, I must admit that I was expecting a bit more from this book. Sure, the plot was fantastic and the mystery aspect well handled, the dialogue natural and the writing style intimate and approachable, but the whole thing felt a little lacklustre. I did enjoy the book, though, for all of that.
Since it came highly recommended by many people including my favourite professor, I must admit that I was expecting a bit more from this book. Sure, the plot was fantastic and the mystery aspect well handled, the dialogue natural and the writing style intimate and approachable, but the whole thing felt a little lacklustre. I did enjoy the book, though, for all of that.
The Carpet Makers – Andreas Eschbach
Like for serious. What the hell. Why is this book so bizarre and so kickass? As high fantasy goes, it’s right up there in quality (Tor publishes. Are we surprised?), and, while I was disappointed that some of the loose ends didn’t get woven in (which is a hilarious pun if you’ve read the book), the entire read was incredibly satisfying.
Like for serious. What the hell. Why is this book so bizarre and so kickass? As high fantasy goes, it’s right up there in quality (Tor publishes. Are we surprised?), and, while I was disappointed that some of the loose ends didn’t get woven in (which is a hilarious pun if you’ve read the book), the entire read was incredibly satisfying.
Mythago Wood – Robert Holdstock
I think I liked this book. It was well-written and had the mythic elements that I usually love...but...I don’t know. It didn’t really hit home with me, I guess. That being said, I definitely appreciated the effort Holdstock went to in order to create this awesome reimagining of primal mythology.
I think I liked this book. It was well-written and had the mythic elements that I usually love...but...I don’t know. It didn’t really hit home with me, I guess. That being said, I definitely appreciated the effort Holdstock went to in order to create this awesome reimagining of primal mythology.
Versailles – Kathryn Davis
This book is odd. It sprinkles different writing genres – there are several chapters done as scripts, for instance – and different character voices (“I” is always Marie Antoinette, I think), and manages to not really say anything while saying a whole lot. The writing is good! M-A is more along the lines of what I’ve always thought her to be! But I’m really not at all sure about how I feel about this book.
This book is odd. It sprinkles different writing genres – there are several chapters done as scripts, for instance – and different character voices (“I” is always Marie Antoinette, I think), and manages to not really say anything while saying a whole lot. The writing is good! M-A is more along the lines of what I’ve always thought her to be! But I’m really not at all sure about how I feel about this book.
Grim Tuesday – Garth Nix
So happy that this is as good as the first in the series! The Grim is a delicious villain, the characters are delightfully inventive and everything is sheer whimsical depression and sheer whimsical joy. The book is, of course, for children, and I love children’s books, especially when they’re better written than most adult books.
So happy that this is as good as the first in the series! The Grim is a delicious villain, the characters are delightfully inventive and everything is sheer whimsical depression and sheer whimsical joy. The book is, of course, for children, and I love children’s books, especially when they’re better written than most adult books.
Drowned Wednesday – Garth Nix
Yay Nix! Honestly, I have no complaints. And reading these books between everything else is a breath of fresh air – kids’ books are excellent, and these are just genuinely good literature to boot. Somewhat formulaic, I suppose, but, then, that’s within the nature of a series about having to take back an inheritance from seven corrupted trustees.
Yay Nix! Honestly, I have no complaints. And reading these books between everything else is a breath of fresh air – kids’ books are excellent, and these are just genuinely good literature to boot. Somewhat formulaic, I suppose, but, then, that’s within the nature of a series about having to take back an inheritance from seven corrupted trustees.
Sir Thursday – Garth Nix
So much more exciting than the others! Rather a different situation, this one, with new obstacles and new craziness – Nix’s imagination is incredible. And it actually didn’t end all resolved, which was lovely. And! Hurrah for character development, enfin!
So much more exciting than the others! Rather a different situation, this one, with new obstacles and new craziness – Nix’s imagination is incredible. And it actually didn’t end all resolved, which was lovely. And! Hurrah for character development, enfin!
Dune Messiah – Frank Herbert
I was actually pretty disappointed with this book. Herbert is a good writer, but I found myself just completely lost. I couldn’t follow the thread of the plot, didn’t understand any of the character development, and misplaced the climax and...I just did not like this book. Which is sad, because it means I probably won’t read the rest of the series.
I was actually pretty disappointed with this book. Herbert is a good writer, but I found myself just completely lost. I couldn’t follow the thread of the plot, didn’t understand any of the character development, and misplaced the climax and...I just did not like this book. Which is sad, because it means I probably won’t read the rest of the series.
The Hunger Games – Suzanne Collins
I have not read a post-apocalyptic novel that was this good EVER. I laughed and cried and got so into it! The situation is imaginative, the plot is twisty and turny and seemingly never ending, the characters are well thought-out, well executed, and well developed, and...and...and it has a sequel! So. Yes. I approve of this book rather mightily.
I have not read a post-apocalyptic novel that was this good EVER. I laughed and cried and got so into it! The situation is imaginative, the plot is twisty and turny and seemingly never ending, the characters are well thought-out, well executed, and well developed, and...and...and it has a sequel! So. Yes. I approve of this book rather mightily.
The Bodhicaryavatara – Santideva
I have to say, classic Mahayana “my philosophy is better than your philosophy; suck it, Theravada!” in some parts of this, but by and large an incredibly humble, beautiful picture of the bodhisattva path. And some generally inspiring sections even if you’re NOT intending to become a buddha eventually. I really want to read this in the original, because I don’t think the translation is doing his poetic form any semblance of justice.
I have to say, classic Mahayana “my philosophy is better than your philosophy; suck it, Theravada!” in some parts of this, but by and large an incredibly humble, beautiful picture of the bodhisattva path. And some generally inspiring sections even if you’re NOT intending to become a buddha eventually. I really want to read this in the original, because I don’t think the translation is doing his poetic form any semblance of justice.
The Wars - Timothy Findley
Findley’s writing style is so matter-of-fact and to the point that The Wars really does read like a research project. The horrors of war and their effect on an individual are more impactful, I think, because he really doesn’t dramatize or pull at heartstrings.
Findley’s writing style is so matter-of-fact and to the point that The Wars really does read like a research project. The horrors of war and their effect on an individual are more impactful, I think, because he really doesn’t dramatize or pull at heartstrings.
The Song of Roland
As a student of history and religion, this bothered me – propaganda poetry of the worst sort, where the line “the Christians were in the right, the pagans in the wrong” is a fitting summary. As a student of literature, I was completely ecstatic over the flowery formalities, the formulaic phrasing, and the incredibly vivid descriptive. As a student, I took joy in stanza 209, where the entire French army – to a man – faints.
As a student of history and religion, this bothered me – propaganda poetry of the worst sort, where the line “the Christians were in the right, the pagans in the wrong” is a fitting summary. As a student of literature, I was completely ecstatic over the flowery formalities, the formulaic phrasing, and the incredibly vivid descriptive. As a student, I took joy in stanza 209, where the entire French army – to a man – faints.
Children of Dune – Frank Herbert
Dune III: Finally, Someone’s Doing Something Right was a wonderful change from Dune II: Frank Herbert Doesn’t Know What’s Going On, Either. Possibly because of the presence of twins? But, for serious, the storytelling was marvellous, and I really do enjoy his writing style. And there appeared to be an actual plot! My main problem with Herbert remains, though – none of his twisty-turny things are ever properly explained.
Dune III: Finally, Someone’s Doing Something Right was a wonderful change from Dune II: Frank Herbert Doesn’t Know What’s Going On, Either. Possibly because of the presence of twins? But, for serious, the storytelling was marvellous, and I really do enjoy his writing style. And there appeared to be an actual plot! My main problem with Herbert remains, though – none of his twisty-turny things are ever properly explained.
Selected Short Stories - Anton Chekov
As someone raised on the O’Henry short story (you know, the whole Unexpected Twist at the end thing?), Chekov’s style was...different. I loved the writing, and the picture of different facets of Russian life that he portrayed, but it took me until the end of the collection to really start to appreciate the stories without being disappointed by the lack of surprising twist. That’s more on me than Chekov, though, and he is pretty darn awesome.
As someone raised on the O’Henry short story (you know, the whole Unexpected Twist at the end thing?), Chekov’s style was...different. I loved the writing, and the picture of different facets of Russian life that he portrayed, but it took me until the end of the collection to really start to appreciate the stories without being disappointed by the lack of surprising twist. That’s more on me than Chekov, though, and he is pretty darn awesome.
Tokyo Vice - Jake Adelstein
I love Japanese culture. I love journalist memoirs. I love learning about "the seedy underbelly of x". And I therefore particularly loved this books. Always engaging, never off-topic, personably written, and frankly honest about EVERYTHING (even personal failings, which is occasionally my beef with memoir writers). Truly excellent.
I love Japanese culture. I love journalist memoirs. I love learning about "the seedy underbelly of x". And I therefore particularly loved this books. Always engaging, never off-topic, personably written, and frankly honest about EVERYTHING (even personal failings, which is occasionally my beef with memoir writers). Truly excellent.
Tess of the D’Urbervilles - Thomas Hardy
While I don’t approve of the over-emotional-ness of Tess, or the stupidity of her love for Angel, I wholly understand it. And I approve of the nebulous nature of d’Urberville. And it is SO, SO well-written and is a classic for a reason. And I’m so, so glad I finally read it.
While I don’t approve of the over-emotional-ness of Tess, or the stupidity of her love for Angel, I wholly understand it. And I approve of the nebulous nature of d’Urberville. And it is SO, SO well-written and is a classic for a reason. And I’m so, so glad I finally read it.
Lullabies for Little Criminals – Heather O’Neill
I have to say: this book made me miss parts of Montreal that I didn’t even know I missed. Aside from that, it was decently written, and, although I didn’t get emotionally attached to any of the characters (actually, this book didn’t provoke any emotions in me at all), they were all at least sympathetic. I feel like this was an awesome expose of the things that happen to kids on the street, but I work with kids on the street, and their stories make you want to do something. This story just made me go “These things happen,” and shrug and walk away.
I have to say: this book made me miss parts of Montreal that I didn’t even know I missed. Aside from that, it was decently written, and, although I didn’t get emotionally attached to any of the characters (actually, this book didn’t provoke any emotions in me at all), they were all at least sympathetic. I feel like this was an awesome expose of the things that happen to kids on the street, but I work with kids on the street, and their stories make you want to do something. This story just made me go “These things happen,” and shrug and walk away.
Guy Gavriel Kay- Under Heaven
At the end of every Kay book, I want to put it down, get up, stretch, sit back down, and read it all over again. This was no exception. Kay’s writing speaks to my mind and my soul and my aesthetic sensibilities, and the story gripped me (staying up to 3am to finish it? Of course) and the characters moved me, and everything – EVERYTHING – was just perfect. I love this man’s books. I would marry them.
At the end of every Kay book, I want to put it down, get up, stretch, sit back down, and read it all over again. This was no exception. Kay’s writing speaks to my mind and my soul and my aesthetic sensibilities, and the story gripped me (staying up to 3am to finish it? Of course) and the characters moved me, and everything – EVERYTHING – was just perfect. I love this man’s books. I would marry them.
Walter Miller – A Canticle for Leibowitz
The concept of a nuclear apocalypse starting a second Dark Ages, then Renaissance, then nuclear age is absolutely brilliant, and it’s rather well executed. The characters gripped me emotionally, too, which was awesome until I realized that Canticle is actually three novellas in one. I don’t know that Miller could have achieved the same effect without the divisions, but they definitely disrupted my reading too much to be fully enjoyable.
The concept of a nuclear apocalypse starting a second Dark Ages, then Renaissance, then nuclear age is absolutely brilliant, and it’s rather well executed. The characters gripped me emotionally, too, which was awesome until I realized that Canticle is actually three novellas in one. I don’t know that Miller could have achieved the same effect without the divisions, but they definitely disrupted my reading too much to be fully enjoyable.
Peter Watts – Blindsight
My dad loves to talk about the brain and the mind and the awesome things they can do. This book reminded me of him, going on as it does about the brain and the mind and the awesome things they can do. It’s one of those stories that I have to read again because the ending happened too quickly – I didn’t see it coming and I didn’t fully grasp it when it happened, I think. It’s definitely, DEFINITELY worth a second read.
My dad loves to talk about the brain and the mind and the awesome things they can do. This book reminded me of him, going on as it does about the brain and the mind and the awesome things they can do. It’s one of those stories that I have to read again because the ending happened too quickly – I didn’t see it coming and I didn’t fully grasp it when it happened, I think. It’s definitely, DEFINITELY worth a second read.
Ursula K. LeGuin – The Left Hand of Darkness
I feel like I would have enjoyed this novel more if it hadn’t been drilled into my mind that it’s some kind of critique of gendered society. Quite frankly, I like it more for the world LeGuin creates and the characters with which she populates it, and I wish she’d gone into more detail on the mythology and political systems. It’s definitely not the worst SF I’ve ever read, but nowhere near the best.
I feel like I would have enjoyed this novel more if it hadn’t been drilled into my mind that it’s some kind of critique of gendered society. Quite frankly, I like it more for the world LeGuin creates and the characters with which she populates it, and I wish she’d gone into more detail on the mythology and political systems. It’s definitely not the worst SF I’ve ever read, but nowhere near the best.
Lady Friday – Garth Nix
The Trustees just keep getting eviller, and Arthur just keeps getting awesome. I love the fact that this series is maturing into something really powerful and meaningful, while also maintaining the necessary whimsy and lightheartedness. And I love Suzy Turquoise Blue.
The Trustees just keep getting eviller, and Arthur just keeps getting awesome. I love the fact that this series is maturing into something really powerful and meaningful, while also maintaining the necessary whimsy and lightheartedness. And I love Suzy Turquoise Blue.
Superior Saturday – Garth Nix
And then! The Will keeps getting more and more interesting. And the Old One, and Arthur’s transformation...the earlier books were excellent, but the introduction of Saturday and her struggle, and then the ending that wasn’t quite an ending have just intensified everything. I love the intricate uselessness of everything in the House, and I love the mystery of the Architect, and I’m addicted to this story.
And then! The Will keeps getting more and more interesting. And the Old One, and Arthur’s transformation...the earlier books were excellent, but the introduction of Saturday and her struggle, and then the ending that wasn’t quite an ending have just intensified everything. I love the intricate uselessness of everything in the House, and I love the mystery of the Architect, and I’m addicted to this story.
Lord Sunday – Garth Nix
Series tend to not have satisfactory endings – they’re too drawn out, they don’t resolve everything, they cheat, they come out of nowhere...but not Nix’s stuff. This was a perfect and absolutely compelling finale to one of the best YA series I’ve ever read. Arthur was perfect, Sunday was perfect, everything made sense, there were really sweet and really funny and really poignant moments, and it all came together, and it was...perfect.
Series tend to not have satisfactory endings – they’re too drawn out, they don’t resolve everything, they cheat, they come out of nowhere...but not Nix’s stuff. This was a perfect and absolutely compelling finale to one of the best YA series I’ve ever read. Arthur was perfect, Sunday was perfect, everything made sense, there were really sweet and really funny and really poignant moments, and it all came together, and it was...perfect.
The Colour of Magic – Terry Pratchett
Oh, whimsy – this was such a pleasant book to giggle through, and I love the mythology and utter inanity of everything on the Discworld. And I love the concept of all the different races and the exciting and unpredictable gods and...and...so wonderful. So adorable.
Oh, whimsy – this was such a pleasant book to giggle through, and I love the mythology and utter inanity of everything on the Discworld. And I love the concept of all the different races and the exciting and unpredictable gods and...and...so wonderful. So adorable.
A Game of Thrones – George R. Martin
So, while I have to admit that I’ve read significantly better fantasy, and I’ve read significantly more intricate plots, Martin still makes it near the top of my list of Awesomely Complicated Fantasy. I really like the take on the medieval world, and I love how he manages to make everything feel really natural. In love with Ned Stark? Yes, I am. In love with the idea of the Wall and direwolves? Yes, I am. In absolute suspense and dying to read the sequel? Yes, I am.
So, while I have to admit that I’ve read significantly better fantasy, and I’ve read significantly more intricate plots, Martin still makes it near the top of my list of Awesomely Complicated Fantasy. I really like the take on the medieval world, and I love how he manages to make everything feel really natural. In love with Ned Stark? Yes, I am. In love with the idea of the Wall and direwolves? Yes, I am. In absolute suspense and dying to read the sequel? Yes, I am.
A Clash of Kings – George R. Martin
OH MAN I kind of love this series. It’s definitely one of those where you can watch the author come into a kind of really excellent maturity as a writer, and where the characters are easy to fall in love with, and where there are just too many layers to keep track of. Martin does character death well, and has this horrible habit of making people not quite what you first expected them to be. It’s quite excellent.
OH MAN I kind of love this series. It’s definitely one of those where you can watch the author come into a kind of really excellent maturity as a writer, and where the characters are easy to fall in love with, and where there are just too many layers to keep track of. Martin does character death well, and has this horrible habit of making people not quite what you first expected them to be. It’s quite excellent.
A Storm of Swords – George R. Martin
HOLY JAIME. HOLY DRAGONS. HOLY WEDDINGS. This is an addictive series, and it’s fast-paced enough that the writing style doesn’t bother me too much. Is it excellent literature? Not particularly. Is it excellent fantasy? Most definitely. I haven’t enjoyed a fantasy series this much in a long while, and I’m loving all the intricacies and complexities and nuances that Martin just keeps piling on.
HOLY JAIME. HOLY DRAGONS. HOLY WEDDINGS. This is an addictive series, and it’s fast-paced enough that the writing style doesn’t bother me too much. Is it excellent literature? Not particularly. Is it excellent fantasy? Most definitely. I haven’t enjoyed a fantasy series this much in a long while, and I’m loving all the intricacies and complexities and nuances that Martin just keeps piling on.
A Feast for Crows - George R.R. Martin
Okay so I am now in love with Jon Snow. Also Stannis’ story just keeps getting more and more interesting, and I can’t decide whether I like him or not. Also Cersei is scary. The Stark girls have interesting stories, and I can’t wait to see Arya’s, in particular, come to fruition. I definitely missed Bran and Danaerys, though – July can’t come soon enough for me.
Okay so I am now in love with Jon Snow. Also Stannis’ story just keeps getting more and more interesting, and I can’t decide whether I like him or not. Also Cersei is scary. The Stark girls have interesting stories, and I can’t wait to see Arya’s, in particular, come to fruition. I definitely missed Bran and Danaerys, though – July can’t come soon enough for me.
The Hunchback of Notre Dame - Victor Hugo
I have to say, I enjoyed this book less than I probably should have, just by virtue of the fact that I read it over a period of about four months. Nevertheless, it was an excellent read. Transparent plot? Yes. Static characters? Mostly. But it had excellent pacing and wrapped up all sorts of delicious details, and the characters themselves were fascinating. Woo classic literature!
I have to say, I enjoyed this book less than I probably should have, just by virtue of the fact that I read it over a period of about four months. Nevertheless, it was an excellent read. Transparent plot? Yes. Static characters? Mostly. But it had excellent pacing and wrapped up all sorts of delicious details, and the characters themselves were fascinating. Woo classic literature!
The King Must Die – Mary Renault
So I love Greek mythology. And I love Theseus, and Aegeus, and the Cretan culture. And I love when authors novelize myth. So I loved this book. Was it perfect? No. Did it sway me emotionally? No. Was it easy to put down? Yes. But, all in all, it was a fantastic combination of some of my favourite, favourite things.
So I love Greek mythology. And I love Theseus, and Aegeus, and the Cretan culture. And I love when authors novelize myth. So I loved this book. Was it perfect? No. Did it sway me emotionally? No. Was it easy to put down? Yes. But, all in all, it was a fantastic combination of some of my favourite, favourite things.
The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy – Douglas Adams
In the realm of cute SF, Adams clearly rules. A refreshing hodgepodge of SF tropes and British cultural references (I especially enjoyed the centrality of cricket in Book Four, being a new convert to the sport) – the Guide manages to be both excessively absurd and wonderfully endearing. For serious, my love for SF is confirmed as totally valid, and my ardent desire for clever literature has been very nicely fulfilled.
In the realm of cute SF, Adams clearly rules. A refreshing hodgepodge of SF tropes and British cultural references (I especially enjoyed the centrality of cricket in Book Four, being a new convert to the sport) – the Guide manages to be both excessively absurd and wonderfully endearing. For serious, my love for SF is confirmed as totally valid, and my ardent desire for clever literature has been very nicely fulfilled.
Silverwing – Kenneth Oppel
I love the mythology of this book – although the idea of bat-gods is a little juvenile (oh hey, I almost forgot you were a kids’ book). It’s a wonderful tale of growing up, I think, and a really awesome commentary on human relations and interactions, on religion, on social institutions. Also it’s entertaining.
I love the mythology of this book – although the idea of bat-gods is a little juvenile (oh hey, I almost forgot you were a kids’ book). It’s a wonderful tale of growing up, I think, and a really awesome commentary on human relations and interactions, on religion, on social institutions. Also it’s entertaining.
A Wizard of Earthsea - Ursula K. LeGuin
I feel like I would have enjoyed this more if I had read it when I was 12. I mean, I like LeGuin – really, I do – but in terms of YA fantasy, she leaves a lot to be desired. The plot is lacking something, the characters don’t really develop, and while I’m a big fan of the sweeping narrative style she employs, I don’t think she’s using it to the best effect. I mean, great read, and I’ll definitely read the rest of the quartet, but I’m glad I only spent $1.50 on it.
I feel like I would have enjoyed this more if I had read it when I was 12. I mean, I like LeGuin – really, I do – but in terms of YA fantasy, she leaves a lot to be desired. The plot is lacking something, the characters don’t really develop, and while I’m a big fan of the sweeping narrative style she employs, I don’t think she’s using it to the best effect. I mean, great read, and I’ll definitely read the rest of the quartet, but I’m glad I only spent $1.50 on it.
The Tombs of Atuan - Ursula K. LeGuin
OKAY SO. This was fabulous. I love the mythology and the world LeGuin created here, and then I love how she wove back into it the world from the first Earthsea book. AND THEN I loved the wonderful, wonderful Tenar, and I actually, actively fell in love with Ged, and then I fell in love with the idea of them, and this was a wonderful book. The style LeGuin adopted in book one comes to a beautiful fruition here, and it feels like it fits perfectly.
OKAY SO. This was fabulous. I love the mythology and the world LeGuin created here, and then I love how she wove back into it the world from the first Earthsea book. AND THEN I loved the wonderful, wonderful Tenar, and I actually, actively fell in love with Ged, and then I fell in love with the idea of them, and this was a wonderful book. The style LeGuin adopted in book one comes to a beautiful fruition here, and it feels like it fits perfectly.
The Farthest Shore - Ursula K. LeGuin
Where is Tenar? I wanted this book to be about her some more, but, I have to say, the introduction of the prince worked out quite stupendously. The plot here was coherent and rather more complex and more like a proper plot than the first two books. I especially loved the raft people and the dragons and the complexities of the world of the dead. I loved the interplay of the characters and how LeGuin let her archaic style loosen a little.
Where is Tenar? I wanted this book to be about her some more, but, I have to say, the introduction of the prince worked out quite stupendously. The plot here was coherent and rather more complex and more like a proper plot than the first two books. I especially loved the raft people and the dragons and the complexities of the world of the dead. I loved the interplay of the characters and how LeGuin let her archaic style loosen a little.
Tehanu - Ursula K. LeGuin
This was the perfect culmination of the quartet. Everything just came together beautifully, and the foreshadowing was excellent, and (SPOILERS) FINALLY SOME GED/TENAR! KTHXBAI. The ending was a tad rushed, and maybe could have been a little better written, but, overall, with the incredibly loose, dialogue-focused style, and the brilliant characterizations, and the tying-everything-together...it was wonderful. Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful.
This was the perfect culmination of the quartet. Everything just came together beautifully, and the foreshadowing was excellent, and (SPOILERS) FINALLY SOME GED/TENAR! KTHXBAI. The ending was a tad rushed, and maybe could have been a little better written, but, overall, with the incredibly loose, dialogue-focused style, and the brilliant characterizations, and the tying-everything-together...it was wonderful. Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful.
The Twelfth Imam – Joel C. Rosenberg
Oh man do I hate spy novels. Also Christian literature where everyone – and I mean everyone – has a miraculous and improbable conversion experience, after which the plot is resolved. Also horribly written love sub-plots based on a bizarre moral code. I do, however, love authors who do their research, I’m fascinated by Shia eschatology, and I enjoy a well-written story. Also the Middle East. Also unnecessary references to brand-name goods make me giggle. I am therefore entirely confused in my thoughts on this book, and can only concretely say that I enjoyed the reading.
Oh man do I hate spy novels. Also Christian literature where everyone – and I mean everyone – has a miraculous and improbable conversion experience, after which the plot is resolved. Also horribly written love sub-plots based on a bizarre moral code. I do, however, love authors who do their research, I’m fascinated by Shia eschatology, and I enjoy a well-written story. Also the Middle East. Also unnecessary references to brand-name goods make me giggle. I am therefore entirely confused in my thoughts on this book, and can only concretely say that I enjoyed the reading.
The Myth of Sisyphus – Albert Camus
Camus is at times a little too excitable and doesn’t properly explain himself, but by and large this was one of the most coherent and sensical pieces of philosophy I’ve read. His main point, to prove the absurdity of human life and, I think, to explain the lifestyle(s) of someone(s) who accept(s) that reality and work(s) within it, was at times lots in the shuffle of sub-points. But he always came back to it, and his reasoning made a lot of sense. His bit on the actor was spot on, especially.
Camus is at times a little too excitable and doesn’t properly explain himself, but by and large this was one of the most coherent and sensical pieces of philosophy I’ve read. His main point, to prove the absurdity of human life and, I think, to explain the lifestyle(s) of someone(s) who accept(s) that reality and work(s) within it, was at times lots in the shuffle of sub-points. But he always came back to it, and his reasoning made a lot of sense. His bit on the actor was spot on, especially.
Malcolm X – Autobiography
I’ll be the first one in a given situation to rail on about the atrocities committed by the “Western” world, but something about this book jars me. I think we have to draw a line between culture and individuals, and I feel that, even though Malcolm seems to come to this conclusion himself near the end, he fails to draw that line. I don’t believe that racism can be cured by more racism, any more than I believe that sexism can be cured by more sexism, although I can understand the motivation behind such a technique. Malcolm’s story is fascinating, his voice powerful, his interpretation of Islam somewhat questionable (but, then, I’m only a scholar of Islam, and things are different on the ground, I suppose), and, overall, this work is entrancing. The last sentence, after he attributes all his success to Allah, reads: “All the mistakes have been mine”, which redeems the whole book for me. I would recommend it to anyone.
I’ll be the first one in a given situation to rail on about the atrocities committed by the “Western” world, but something about this book jars me. I think we have to draw a line between culture and individuals, and I feel that, even though Malcolm seems to come to this conclusion himself near the end, he fails to draw that line. I don’t believe that racism can be cured by more racism, any more than I believe that sexism can be cured by more sexism, although I can understand the motivation behind such a technique. Malcolm’s story is fascinating, his voice powerful, his interpretation of Islam somewhat questionable (but, then, I’m only a scholar of Islam, and things are different on the ground, I suppose), and, overall, this work is entrancing. The last sentence, after he attributes all his success to Allah, reads: “All the mistakes have been mine”, which redeems the whole book for me. I would recommend it to anyone.
Rohinton Mistry – A Fine Balance
This is a book about making your way through misery. It’s...it’s about getting used to losing everything time and again, and it’s about a country where losing is the national pastime. It’s about corruption and survival and love, and it’s about the face of India we don’t get to see. Charming writing, too, and I basically sobbed through most of it.
This is a book about making your way through misery. It’s...it’s about getting used to losing everything time and again, and it’s about a country where losing is the national pastime. It’s about corruption and survival and love, and it’s about the face of India we don’t get to see. Charming writing, too, and I basically sobbed through most of it.
Lady Macbeth – Susan Fraser King
While I appreciated how King took some small historical details and wove them into the story, the awkward prose and stilted, over-wrought first person narration (AAAAHHHHHHH FIRST PERSON NOOOO) was grating. Also how full of perfection Gruadh was – that’s always annoying. I did thoroughly enjoy the alternate portrayal of the Scottish King, though. Maybe new history crush? Probably.
While I appreciated how King took some small historical details and wove them into the story, the awkward prose and stilted, over-wrought first person narration (AAAAHHHHHHH FIRST PERSON NOOOO) was grating. Also how full of perfection Gruadh was – that’s always annoying. I did thoroughly enjoy the alternate portrayal of the Scottish King, though. Maybe new history crush? Probably.
Special Topics in Calamity Physics – Marisha Pessl
I don’t like first person narrative or the modern bildungsroman. I don’t like pedantry or dissolute youth or fictionalization of an author’s favourite research subject. But I couldn’t put this book down. I fell in love with the perfect characters that Pessl created, and all of the words they used and how they used them (oh, oh, the WORDS) and the Elliot-esque allusions and the story of a girl and her father. I have not fallen this much in love with a book in a very long time. And I couldn’t stop crying at the end of it.
I don’t like first person narrative or the modern bildungsroman. I don’t like pedantry or dissolute youth or fictionalization of an author’s favourite research subject. But I couldn’t put this book down. I fell in love with the perfect characters that Pessl created, and all of the words they used and how they used them (oh, oh, the WORDS) and the Elliot-esque allusions and the story of a girl and her father. I have not fallen this much in love with a book in a very long time. And I couldn’t stop crying at the end of it.
Lev Grossman – The Magicians
I can’t decide whether I liked this book or not. Grossman writes decently, and the story is reasonable, and the characters not odious, if not compelling, The message that dreams being fulfilled is unpleasant is perhaps a little strong, but otherwise well-achieved...I suppose this book is best described as “average”.
I can’t decide whether I liked this book or not. Grossman writes decently, and the story is reasonable, and the characters not odious, if not compelling, The message that dreams being fulfilled is unpleasant is perhaps a little strong, but otherwise well-achieved...I suppose this book is best described as “average”.
The History of Love – Nicole Krauss
Krauss’ prose is not overly compelling, but her story is. I...losing someone you love is, I think, something universally relatable. The stories knitting together worked beautifully, the style was easy and varied nicely with the characters, and I love...love. It’s sad and beautiful and confusing and perfect all at once, love is, just like this book.
Krauss’ prose is not overly compelling, but her story is. I...losing someone you love is, I think, something universally relatable. The stories knitting together worked beautifully, the style was easy and varied nicely with the characters, and I love...love. It’s sad and beautiful and confusing and perfect all at once, love is, just like this book.
Emma Donoghue – Room
I have been itching to read this book since I first heard about it, and it has not disappointed. Jack as narrator is charmingly believable, the practicalities and heartbreaks of Room, of being a single mother in Room, and of being five are so well laid out. The writing is fresh and fast-paced, and the story endearing. It’s hopeful and beautiful and everything a book should be.
I have been itching to read this book since I first heard about it, and it has not disappointed. Jack as narrator is charmingly believable, the practicalities and heartbreaks of Room, of being a single mother in Room, and of being five are so well laid out. The writing is fresh and fast-paced, and the story endearing. It’s hopeful and beautiful and everything a book should be.
David Eddings – Pawn of Prophecy
Whimsical, real, not overly dramatic, yet still strange and new and fantastic – Eddings creates a satisfyingly balanced fantasy novel. Is it awesome? Not especially. Entertaining? Mostly. I like especially that it’s not a tome, and that it has a bajillion sequels.
Whimsical, real, not overly dramatic, yet still strange and new and fantastic – Eddings creates a satisfyingly balanced fantasy novel. Is it awesome? Not especially. Entertaining? Mostly. I like especially that it’s not a tome, and that it has a bajillion sequels.
David Eddings – Queen of Sorcery
A rather delicious little morsel of a second book. Eddings has got me curious about everything – gotta love limited omniscience third person narrators – but not overly so. It’s enjoyable but not inspiring, just nice casual fantasy. Also my grandma really likes it because she’s epic that way.
A rather delicious little morsel of a second book. Eddings has got me curious about everything – gotta love limited omniscience third person narrators – but not overly so. It’s enjoyable but not inspiring, just nice casual fantasy. Also my grandma really likes it because she’s epic that way.
David Eddings – Magician’s Gambit
When is Durnik going to die? And why does Eddings end his books so abruptly with no apparent logic? (probably because it makes this series work well as a series, and not like a sequence of episodes the way most fantasy authors do it) It’s a great technique, but it’s frustrating as all-get-out. I love the realism, though, the no-frills approach to fantasy. And, despite myself, I’m really curious and am thoroughly enjoying myself.
When is Durnik going to die? And why does Eddings end his books so abruptly with no apparent logic? (probably because it makes this series work well as a series, and not like a sequence of episodes the way most fantasy authors do it) It’s a great technique, but it’s frustrating as all-get-out. I love the realism, though, the no-frills approach to fantasy. And, despite myself, I’m really curious and am thoroughly enjoying myself.
Wuthering Heights – Emily Bronte
Oh man, Heathcliff and Catherine have this beautiful story! It’s interesting, seeing it from a modern perspective, this issue of how to treat children. I like how even the narrator is not above reproach, how the story is told with all the bitter self-awareness of hindsight. I ache for Heathcliff. And for Hareton, actually – and for the entirety of these messed up families. I’m glad I read it not – it’s a lot easier to see it as a tale of all of humanity than I think it would’ve been when I was younger.
Oh man, Heathcliff and Catherine have this beautiful story! It’s interesting, seeing it from a modern perspective, this issue of how to treat children. I like how even the narrator is not above reproach, how the story is told with all the bitter self-awareness of hindsight. I ache for Heathcliff. And for Hareton, actually – and for the entirety of these messed up families. I’m glad I read it not – it’s a lot easier to see it as a tale of all of humanity than I think it would’ve been when I was younger.
The Kingdom of the Wicked – Anthony Burgess
A beautifully cynical look at the decline of the Roman Empire and concurrent rise of Christianity, from just before Pentecost to the eruption of Pompeii – Burgess has managed to pack historicity and a dry sort of wit into the scandalous details of the Empire and the bemusing adventures of the disciples, making it very clear not only whose example is better to follow, but also, though he never says it outright, providing quite a striking case for Christianity. Thoroughly enjoyable on all possible levels, I say.
A beautifully cynical look at the decline of the Roman Empire and concurrent rise of Christianity, from just before Pentecost to the eruption of Pompeii – Burgess has managed to pack historicity and a dry sort of wit into the scandalous details of the Empire and the bemusing adventures of the disciples, making it very clear not only whose example is better to follow, but also, though he never says it outright, providing quite a striking case for Christianity. Thoroughly enjoyable on all possible levels, I say.
Beyond Lines of Control – Ravina Aggarwal
So I’m hugely homesick for Ladakh right now. This study of performance of borders in Jammu and Kashmir – between religions, genders, age groups, social classes, and nations – is thorough and poignant. Aggarwal presents a side of Ladakh that is rarely seen in scholarly discourse on the area, and with it she provides a hope for the future of the region, a hope made of communal ties that subvert the lines of control in all their manifestations. Masterful. Now I want to go back even more.
So I’m hugely homesick for Ladakh right now. This study of performance of borders in Jammu and Kashmir – between religions, genders, age groups, social classes, and nations – is thorough and poignant. Aggarwal presents a side of Ladakh that is rarely seen in scholarly discourse on the area, and with it she provides a hope for the future of the region, a hope made of communal ties that subvert the lines of control in all their manifestations. Masterful. Now I want to go back even more.
The Eagle and the Raven – James A. Michener
Short, sweet, and scholarly – this story of the two men most influential in the struggle between the US and Mexico over Texas was classic Michener. Well written, with this great sense of character that really highlighted the huge similarities between Houston and Santa Anna, concision with just enough detail to satisfy...yay academia!
Short, sweet, and scholarly – this story of the two men most influential in the struggle between the US and Mexico over Texas was classic Michener. Well written, with this great sense of character that really highlighted the huge similarities between Houston and Santa Anna, concision with just enough detail to satisfy...yay academia!
David Eddings – Castle of Wizardry
I like Eddings’ style, and his characters continue to be fairly engaging. I’m a little disappointed with his lack of subtlety in dealing with some of the more major confrontations, but overall the story is progressing nicely, and I’m loving that this is really a story, not just a bunch of episodic novels clumped together.
I like Eddings’ style, and his characters continue to be fairly engaging. I’m a little disappointed with his lack of subtlety in dealing with some of the more major confrontations, but overall the story is progressing nicely, and I’m loving that this is really a story, not just a bunch of episodic novels clumped together.
David Eddings – Enchanter’s End Game
The completion of the Prophecy had some nice unexpected twists that I quite appreciated, although I was a bit annoyed at how, say, Pol dealt with some things. Also the rash of marriages was entirely unnecessary. I loved the switching viewpoints – so well-handled that it was entirely unawkward and perfectly timed. Overall, it was a nice conclusion to a terribly amiable and rather enjoyable series.
The completion of the Prophecy had some nice unexpected twists that I quite appreciated, although I was a bit annoyed at how, say, Pol dealt with some things. Also the rash of marriages was entirely unnecessary. I loved the switching viewpoints – so well-handled that it was entirely unawkward and perfectly timed. Overall, it was a nice conclusion to a terribly amiable and rather enjoyable series.
The Great Gatsby – F. Scott Fitzgerald
This man’s writing is just simple and lovely. The story itself is one I think anyone who’s been in the throes of a somehow stalled or impossible love can relate to. Gatsby is just so pathetically human in his attachment to his fantasy of the future, it’s just the saddest and perfectest thing.
This man’s writing is just simple and lovely. The story itself is one I think anyone who’s been in the throes of a somehow stalled or impossible love can relate to. Gatsby is just so pathetically human in his attachment to his fantasy of the future, it’s just the saddest and perfectest thing.
Siddhartha – Herman Hesse
I wonder if Hesse ever experienced the peace and insight he writes about, the incredible power of realizing (but REALLY realizing) that distinctions don’t matter, not in the negative, but in the positive sense, where everything and everyone is of value and to be cherished. I love his stilted style, the didactic bent of his narrative, and the distillation of essential concepts in the simple story of one man’s life. That’s what everything seems to inevitably come down to: one man’s life.
I wonder if Hesse ever experienced the peace and insight he writes about, the incredible power of realizing (but REALLY realizing) that distinctions don’t matter, not in the negative, but in the positive sense, where everything and everyone is of value and to be cherished. I love his stilted style, the didactic bent of his narrative, and the distillation of essential concepts in the simple story of one man’s life. That’s what everything seems to inevitably come down to: one man’s life.
D.H. Lawrence – Lady Chatterly’s Lover
Given this book’s reputation, I expected it to be a touch more scandalous than it was. I suppose we have post-Victorian sensibilities to thank that a story about the emotional impacts of sex is notorious simply as a story about sex. And oh! To be in love with someone who’s in love with you seems like such a beautiful thing. I liked it, rather, although I think I like Lawrence’s poetic style significantly more than his prose.
Given this book’s reputation, I expected it to be a touch more scandalous than it was. I suppose we have post-Victorian sensibilities to thank that a story about the emotional impacts of sex is notorious simply as a story about sex. And oh! To be in love with someone who’s in love with you seems like such a beautiful thing. I liked it, rather, although I think I like Lawrence’s poetic style significantly more than his prose.
The God of Impertinence – Steve Nadolny
Still too confusing the second time around, although a great deal more coherent, I must say. I still feel like the end comes too quickly, as well, although my respect for Nadolny’s rendition of the gods has grown. Overall, another mostly disappointing attempt to bring Greek mythology into the 20th century.
Still too confusing the second time around, although a great deal more coherent, I must say. I still feel like the end comes too quickly, as well, although my respect for Nadolny’s rendition of the gods has grown. Overall, another mostly disappointing attempt to bring Greek mythology into the 20th century.
The Woman in White – Wilkie Collins
Like all Victorian novelists worth their salt, Collins manages to make a mountain of a molehill and spend too long on the unimportant bits. That being said, I really enjoyed his treatment of the mystery, and of the characters. Too many commas to make the style likeable, and for some reason the only decent female character gets nothing for her awesomeness – but it was fun.
Like all Victorian novelists worth their salt, Collins manages to make a mountain of a molehill and spend too long on the unimportant bits. That being said, I really enjoyed his treatment of the mystery, and of the characters. Too many commas to make the style likeable, and for some reason the only decent female character gets nothing for her awesomeness – but it was fun.
The Phoenix Requiem – Sarah Ellerton
I rarely put webcomics on reading lists, largely because they aren’t really enough like novels most of the time. Ellerton is the exception – she writes these expansive online graphics novels and illustrates them herself. I loved Inverloch, and now that the Phoenix Requiem is finally finished, I think it’s worthwhile to put it here. I love Ellerton’s art, and I absolutely adore her creative mind. The plot was intriguing and captivating, and all of the elements came together (if in too much of a hurry for my liking) at the end. And her characters! And the world! And the mythology! So wonderful. A little bit steampunk, a little bit fantasy, and a hell of a good read.
I rarely put webcomics on reading lists, largely because they aren’t really enough like novels most of the time. Ellerton is the exception – she writes these expansive online graphics novels and illustrates them herself. I loved Inverloch, and now that the Phoenix Requiem is finally finished, I think it’s worthwhile to put it here. I love Ellerton’s art, and I absolutely adore her creative mind. The plot was intriguing and captivating, and all of the elements came together (if in too much of a hurry for my liking) at the end. And her characters! And the world! And the mythology! So wonderful. A little bit steampunk, a little bit fantasy, and a hell of a good read.
Foundation – Isaac Asimov
Asimov is the quintessential SF writer. I like is update of the fall of Rome, and the discipline of psychohistory is really cool. It reads a bit like and engaging sort of history textbook, which I’m not sure how I feel about. Overall, it’s an intriguing story, but not enough to read the sequels.
Asimov is the quintessential SF writer. I like is update of the fall of Rome, and the discipline of psychohistory is really cool. It reads a bit like and engaging sort of history textbook, which I’m not sure how I feel about. Overall, it’s an intriguing story, but not enough to read the sequels.
The Light Fantastic – Terry Pratchett
Terry Pratchett is my favourite. This is just the most adorable and silly fantasy ever. I love the tongue-in-cheek-ness of it, and the utter absurdity of everything. This man’s writing is magical, even if Rincewind isn’t. ALSO there is apparently a Streets of Ankh-Morpork BOARD GAME?!
Terry Pratchett is my favourite. This is just the most adorable and silly fantasy ever. I love the tongue-in-cheek-ness of it, and the utter absurdity of everything. This man’s writing is magical, even if Rincewind isn’t. ALSO there is apparently a Streets of Ankh-Morpork BOARD GAME?!
Jude the Obscure – Thomas Hardy
My literary epiphany this summer has been that pastoral mid-Victorian tales of the sordid lives of industrializing English countryfolk are not for me. Aided largely by this book. I appreciated it – well drafted, a wonderful slice of life in a time long gone – but I can’t say as I really enjoyed it, especially given its “you’re going to be unhappy no matter what you do – especially with love” message. On the plus side, Hardy’s characters are kind of awesometastic.
My literary epiphany this summer has been that pastoral mid-Victorian tales of the sordid lives of industrializing English countryfolk are not for me. Aided largely by this book. I appreciated it – well drafted, a wonderful slice of life in a time long gone – but I can’t say as I really enjoyed it, especially given its “you’re going to be unhappy no matter what you do – especially with love” message. On the plus side, Hardy’s characters are kind of awesometastic.
The Fellowship of the Ring – JRR Tolkien
I haven’t read enough books this summer that I genuinely loved. Solution? Re-reading, for quite literally the tenth time, the best fantasy series ever written, the one that started it all. My toes are just curling with all the excellence of character, dialogue, descriptive, and, of course, repeated evidence of the most beautifully complex mythology in modern fiction. I fall strongly on the “Bombadil is Illuvatar” side of the debate, although I acknowledge that he could also probably be Orome.
I haven’t read enough books this summer that I genuinely loved. Solution? Re-reading, for quite literally the tenth time, the best fantasy series ever written, the one that started it all. My toes are just curling with all the excellence of character, dialogue, descriptive, and, of course, repeated evidence of the most beautifully complex mythology in modern fiction. I fall strongly on the “Bombadil is Illuvatar” side of the debate, although I acknowledge that he could also probably be Orome.
The Two Towers – JRR Tolkien
One of my favourite things about Tolkien is how each of his characters has a distinct speech pattern, diction, and sense of humour or sarcasm. I usually skip over the Frodo and Sam bits, but, reading them this time, I must confess I find them toe best-written of the whole lot, stirring as the battle scenes and great speeches are.
One of my favourite things about Tolkien is how each of his characters has a distinct speech pattern, diction, and sense of humour or sarcasm. I usually skip over the Frodo and Sam bits, but, reading them this time, I must confess I find them toe best-written of the whole lot, stirring as the battle scenes and great speeches are.
The Return of the King – JRR Tolkien
“The Battle of the Pelennor Fields” is the most inspiring and goose-bumps-of-excellence-ridden chapter ever written. And “The Grey Havens” still makes me sob (but not all tears are an evil), and this is just...the way everything comes together, no loose ends, sorrow but sorrow without bitterness...I had forgotten how deeply in love I am with Tolkien’s writing. SUPERLATIVES. He deserves all of them.
“The Battle of the Pelennor Fields” is the most inspiring and goose-bumps-of-excellence-ridden chapter ever written. And “The Grey Havens” still makes me sob (but not all tears are an evil), and this is just...the way everything comes together, no loose ends, sorrow but sorrow without bitterness...I had forgotten how deeply in love I am with Tolkien’s writing. SUPERLATIVES. He deserves all of them.
A Prayer for Owen Meany – John Irving
Irving’s writing is funny and captivating and easy to fall into – his characters, dialogue, narrative structure, plot, premise...everything fit so perfectly together and everything was just so painfully beautiful that I still can’t believe it’s over. Another one where crying through the last chapter felt like the only thing to do.
Irving’s writing is funny and captivating and easy to fall into – his characters, dialogue, narrative structure, plot, premise...everything fit so perfectly together and everything was just so painfully beautiful that I still can’t believe it’s over. Another one where crying through the last chapter felt like the only thing to do.
The Picture of Dorian Gray – Oscar Wilde
Obviously the cleverest of things that might be construed as a morality tale. I loved that cleverness, and the lavish descriptive, and the queer twist at the end. I also loved how NOT supernatural it was, and how details were only hinted at – the absences were as significant as the presences.
Obviously the cleverest of things that might be construed as a morality tale. I loved that cleverness, and the lavish descriptive, and the queer twist at the end. I also loved how NOT supernatural it was, and how details were only hinted at – the absences were as significant as the presences.
Iceblood – James Axler
Not quite as painful as The Mars Arena. Axler clearly did (some) research on Tibet, but his attempt to provide a comprehensive base for all of mythology and history ever was a little thin, and his descriptive was somewhat flat. A nice bit of brain candy, although, stylistically, it was a little...off.
Not quite as painful as The Mars Arena. Axler clearly did (some) research on Tibet, but his attempt to provide a comprehensive base for all of mythology and history ever was a little thin, and his descriptive was somewhat flat. A nice bit of brain candy, although, stylistically, it was a little...off.
Ella Minnow Pea – Mark Dunn
So clever and witty and wordy and CLEVER! And the object lesson clearly articulated. I love the concept of Nollop, and the concept of the story, and the execution was absolutely flawless, and I have been recommending this book to everyone and you should, too.
So clever and witty and wordy and CLEVER! And the object lesson clearly articulated. I love the concept of Nollop, and the concept of the story, and the execution was absolutely flawless, and I have been recommending this book to everyone and you should, too.
Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns) – Mindy Kaling
The modern autobiography is a silly genre. At the same time, this was such a pleasant, breezy, quirky read that I must admit I enjoyed every minute of it without constantly thinking how silly it was the be reading the biography of someone not even middle-aged yet. Cute is how I can best describe Kaling’s humour – never offensive, never stupid, always cute and clever like that girl in your AP calculus class who wears bows and gets 100% on all the tests.
The modern autobiography is a silly genre. At the same time, this was such a pleasant, breezy, quirky read that I must admit I enjoyed every minute of it without constantly thinking how silly it was the be reading the biography of someone not even middle-aged yet. Cute is how I can best describe Kaling’s humour – never offensive, never stupid, always cute and clever like that girl in your AP calculus class who wears bows and gets 100% on all the tests.
The Life of Milarepa – Tsangyon Heruka
Quintman’s new translation is dazzling and does wonderful justice to the captivating story of the magician and murderer who becomes one of the Tibet’s best-loved teachers. Exemplarity exudes from every word, and, and, and! The literary style is so wonderful. I love rNamtar, really I do.
Quintman’s new translation is dazzling and does wonderful justice to the captivating story of the magician and murderer who becomes one of the Tibet’s best-loved teachers. Exemplarity exudes from every word, and, and, and! The literary style is so wonderful. I love rNamtar, really I do.
Sky Dancer: The Life and Songs of the Lady Yeshe Tsogyel
OH MAN if there is anyone in the world I would prefer to read about, it might be Machig Labdron, but even that is questionable. Tsogyel is fascinating, daring, the wonderful blend of enlightened female and perfect disciple, a little bit cheeky and a lot insightful and...I actually wrote a 34-page paper on this book, so this paragraph feels a little insignificant, but the main thing is: Tsogyel. My hero.
OH MAN if there is anyone in the world I would prefer to read about, it might be Machig Labdron, but even that is questionable. Tsogyel is fascinating, daring, the wonderful blend of enlightened female and perfect disciple, a little bit cheeky and a lot insightful and...I actually wrote a 34-page paper on this book, so this paragraph feels a little insignificant, but the main thing is: Tsogyel. My hero.
The Upanisads
Okay, so this collection was not the entirety of the Upanisads, nor was it actually written by everyone, but the major 20 or so, written by the major Vedic schools. And actually I loved the varying styles, and I loved the development of different philosophies, and I loved trying to find the common threads that bound them together, and looking at progressions from Vedic thought and progressions to Buddhist thought and cross-influences and religious texts are just the coolest.
Okay, so this collection was not the entirety of the Upanisads, nor was it actually written by everyone, but the major 20 or so, written by the major Vedic schools. And actually I loved the varying styles, and I loved the development of different philosophies, and I loved trying to find the common threads that bound them together, and looking at progressions from Vedic thought and progressions to Buddhist thought and cross-influences and religious texts are just the coolest.