During Reuben's nap time (because he started taking naps once I quit my job because I didn't have time to work because he wouldn't take a nap) I do a few things. I listen to NPR podcasts on the ipod and knit, or I read. Its been so nice to read again! Now for you extremely curious about what I do other than dislike New York, or pretend to love New York here is what I have read lately.
The Last Summer (of You and Me) Ann Brashares
I found this book on the "give away table" in our basement so I read it...in one night. (The road outside out window was being repaved and I couldn't sleep through the beeping and steamrolling and men yelling at each other.) The characters were interesting and I wanted to know what happened to them. Talyn would hate it, she thinks people who love each other should be nice to each other all the time. And for those of you with delicate tastes its a PG-13 pushing R level of intimacy.
Breaking Dawn Stephenie Meyer
Not as addictive as the other rest of the Twilight Saga. Some really great moments and language, but over all it was kind of a let down. The major conflict in the end is extremely anti-climatic, and doesn't have that page turning drive you expect from the last 150 pages of a Twilight book. Once again, its a little "romantic." But I think Talyn might like the Edward/Bella relationship finally.
An Eyre Affair Jasper Fforde
There are a few more "suspension of disbelieve" issues in this book than I would really appreciate, but there are some great jokes and inside smart people references. I wonder if the unnecessary story lines in the world will become important in the rest of the series. The characterization is a little weak, but not bad enough that I got bored with them.
Jane Eyre Charlotte Bronte
I finally read it! I'm not a fan, but I feel like a better person now that I have read it. I think I just don't like the genre, I find it frustrating and slow moving.
The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency Alexander McCall Smith
My only complaint about this one was it felt too much like a set up for series. Too many things went unresolved. The story is completely character driven, and it is simple and fun to read. The "mysteries" were extremely predictable with the exception of one. It takes you to a lovely world, and introduces a Botswana that you may want to visit.
The Year of Magical Thinking Joan Didion
Not recommended to people who have recently experienced grief. Its a lot of snotty, and a pretty depressing view on life and death. The language is beautiful, and there is plenty of intelligent references, but the approach to grief is extremely not-healthy and there is no window at the end.
Friday Night Knitting Club Kate Jacobs
This had some pretty great ideas and set-ups, but fell short. She depended a lot more on extreme events instead of developing the interesting characters she set up. I think if there had been a few more drafts, and some very extreme editing it would be wonderful. I just don't know that it was ready yet.
So, as you can tell I'm a harsh critic, do you dare to make any suggestions? Or defend any of your favorite books?
Gallant Ship
9 years ago
6 comments:
People who love each other should at least be nice to each other almost all of the time. It just doesn't make sense otherwise. People who show their love through explosive arguments and passionate make-ups are not healthy. At least according to me, and I have extensive relationship experience and a PhD in deciding if people are healthy or not.
I actually liked Breaking Dawn way more than the last two. I felt her character actually had character this time. I mean, someone you could actually like without getting mad at her.
Talyn, I'm assuming you'd hate Wuthering Heights. If you haven't read it - don't. I hate that book. It's all 'passionate and stormy love' but really, they're just very selfish, and completely unhinged.
Brecken: I haven't heard of the twilight series... but then, I don't think the best seller lists are always the same here in Oz. I love Jayne Eyre, but you already knew that. I think I just love the genre. And yes - you are a better person for having read it :) I have read the No. 1 Lades Detective Agency - it was highly recommended, but I felt it was sort of so-so. I concur with your comments. The last summer of you and me - haven't heard of that one either. And the Eyre Affair - I've heard a few of you mention it, but I haven't actually read it. What do you think, would I like it?!
I'm halfway through a book that I'd recommend (at the moment at least). It's called 'The Forgotten Garden' by Kate Morton. She's actually from Brisbane and it's on the best seller lists here, and I know it's selling really well in Ireland (because my boss was just there and mentioned that she saw it there) so I'm assuming it's available overseas :) The author's husband actually writes jingles and I've worked with him a little, so I thought (since I see her book everywhere and I kind of have a connection) that I'd read it. I'm really enjoying it. If they have it in NY, find a copy and read it :)
xo Tammy
I just read my comment again and it sounds very abrupt! Sorry :( Tone came out all wrong :)
Love you girl!
xo Tammy
I like your critiquing(sp?) style. It is fun to get people's differing views of what makes a story worth reading. I have a book I'd like your opinion on (I really liked it but I'm curious to see what your opinion is); it is The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio. The lady has 10 kids and an alcoholic husband who squanders their money so she's left to raise and support the kids through the jingle contest craze (I think it was in the 60's?).
What do you think of The Scarlet Pimpernal?
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