Monday, October 24, 2005

50-book challenge

No. 17 is The Best Awful by Carrie Fisher. And it wasn't, but it could have been better. This sequel to Postcards from the Edge (which was a mediocre movie, but a pretty good book) has humor and a wit, but it could have used more of Doris Mann. The mother with issues only had a bit part this go-around. I also thought the ending wrapped up a little too neat. Currently reading: Wicked by Gregory MacGuire.

Monday, October 17, 2005

A little behind in my book blogging (and reading)

Perhaps starting the 50-book challenge in March wasn't such a good idea. Unless I read 2 books a week through the end of the year, I am not going to make it. But the good news is reading has become a habit again -- a lost love found. So here is what I thought of numbers 14, 15 and 16.

No. 14 - "When Will Jesus Bring the Pork Chops?" by George Carlin. I love Carlin's standup and most of this was more of the same, including a lot I had already heard on his television appearances. He did seem to try for more shock value in this book, some of which I could have done without. I really don't need any Jon Benet jokes, George.

No. 15 - "Hawke's Harbor" by S.E. Hinton. I devoured Hinton's books when I was a kid and still count "The Outsiders" as on of my all-time favorites. When I saw this one in a airport shop, it was a no-brainer. Thanks to time waiting on a plane and in a plane, I was able to finish it in 2 days. It's a little different subject matter than what fans are used to, but the style is definitely the same. It's a little quirky and could have been filled out some. But the characters was likeable and it was an easy read.

No. 16 - "Fire Sale" by Sara Paretsky. V.I. Warshawski is back on the case. This one may not be her best and it's a little predictable in places, but it's a good story told well over all. Paretsky is always a good choice for me when I'm looking for a little brain candy with a twist and this story fits the bill. And it doesn't hurt that all these novels have a strong, independent and intelligent female character to lead the way.

Sunday, October 9, 2005

Overheard at the airport

"This one has a vibrator, too. You should get one." - 50-ish woman showing her new cell phone to her 50-ish female traveling companions.

Tuesday, October 4, 2005

Today's thought

Nothing brings out the dysfunctional in my family quite like a funeral.