What I'm Reading This Week -- (Feb. 9, 2009)
Quote de jour
"Read everything of something and something of everything."
That's always been my motto. I'm getting used to seeing Obama on at least several covers every week. Hmmm, I wonder when that will end? Not that I'm complaining...
Christopher Plummer's autobiography Inspite of Myself is genius. Not only is he a talented actor but the man can write. This is no 'as told to' ghost written drivel. It's the kind of book I wish I could take to secluded cabin somewhere and dive into for a few days. It's chock full of photos about his riveting, constellation of a life,including his ritzy childhood in my hometown of Montreal. This is one time that skimming a book is breaking my heart, but at 648 pages, I must say adieu for now.
New York Times best selling author, Kristin Hannah has another one on the NY times best seller list with Firefly Lane. She has a stack of them and I confess, I haven't read any. From a quick peek inside, I'm tempted to dive into her world of friendship, loyalty and reunions. If I had the time, it would be the perfect read at a beach house or a 'girl's' vacation. To be honest, the only book I've read cover to cover recently was Anne Roiphe's Epilogue. I read every word. What bigger compliment is that?
Sometimes I order a book because of the hype. It could be a best seller or touted in every newspaper and magazine. I kept seeing mentions of 2666, the posthumously published novel by Chilean writer Roberto Bolano. It boasts fabulous cover art by Gustave Moreau. If you're ever in Paris, stop by the tiny museum of Gustave Moreau's former atelier. You won't regret it. I wish I could say the same about the book. It may have it's legions of fans but it's not for me, and certainly not at 900 pages. I'm not saying it's not well written. Here's an tiny excerpt. " Youth is the semblance of strength, love is the semblance of peace. Neither youth nor love nor peace can be granted to me, he said to himself with a sigh, nor can I accept such a gift." It's not surprising that Bolano began his writing career as a poet. Now.... what have you read lately that you couldn't put down?
"Read everything of something and something of everything."
That's always been my motto. I'm getting used to seeing Obama on at least several covers every week. Hmmm, I wonder when that will end? Not that I'm complaining...
Christopher Plummer's autobiography Inspite of Myself is genius. Not only is he a talented actor but the man can write. This is no 'as told to' ghost written drivel. It's the kind of book I wish I could take to secluded cabin somewhere and dive into for a few days. It's chock full of photos about his riveting, constellation of a life,including his ritzy childhood in my hometown of Montreal. This is one time that skimming a book is breaking my heart, but at 648 pages, I must say adieu for now.
New York Times best selling author, Kristin Hannah has another one on the NY times best seller list with Firefly Lane. She has a stack of them and I confess, I haven't read any. From a quick peek inside, I'm tempted to dive into her world of friendship, loyalty and reunions. If I had the time, it would be the perfect read at a beach house or a 'girl's' vacation. To be honest, the only book I've read cover to cover recently was Anne Roiphe's Epilogue. I read every word. What bigger compliment is that?
Sometimes I order a book because of the hype. It could be a best seller or touted in every newspaper and magazine. I kept seeing mentions of 2666, the posthumously published novel by Chilean writer Roberto Bolano. It boasts fabulous cover art by Gustave Moreau. If you're ever in Paris, stop by the tiny museum of Gustave Moreau's former atelier. You won't regret it. I wish I could say the same about the book. It may have it's legions of fans but it's not for me, and certainly not at 900 pages. I'm not saying it's not well written. Here's an tiny excerpt. " Youth is the semblance of strength, love is the semblance of peace. Neither youth nor love nor peace can be granted to me, he said to himself with a sigh, nor can I accept such a gift." It's not surprising that Bolano began his writing career as a poet. Now.... what have you read lately that you couldn't put down?
Wow! I have Plummer's book! I ordered from my library right after I saw the book review in the NYT a while back. I have not had time to read it yet, but your words of encouragement have just spurred me to start reading it soon.
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