Monday, March 30, 2015
Friday, March 27, 2015
Books contain memories
Our books contain memories. Second-hand books whisper the secrets of their past lives to us while our own memories are made either through book titles that we have read, or through the physical book itself. Life events happen while we are reading a certain book, whether that life event is joyous or sorrowful, we do form emotional attachments to our books. As soon as I have read one of my books, it becomes a friend of mine, and my life memories that took place during that time that I spent reading that certain book suddenly live on in that book.
One of my fondest memories involving books was being read aloud to as a child. My dad read "Little House in the Big Woods" by Laura Ingalls Wilder to me. We read together in the evenings, sometimes even sitting on the kitchen floor together so as not to disturb the rest of the household. That book will forever be our book. It is the first chapter book that I read by myself at the age of seven, and later went on to read the complete series. This series holds a lot of memories for me as I reread it several times growing up. Especially "Little House in the Big Woods". Sadly I do not own the original copies.
A book that holds physical attachment for me are the last two books in the Harry Potter series. They seem not noteworthy for the most part, but they hold a special place in my heart because knowing how badly I wanted them upon the day of their release, my mom and dad actually went out of their way, while on a date nonetheless, to get them for me. Both times! And my dear mom, knowing how odd I am, actually went through them first at the book store to make sure that there were no imperfections. Other books that I have physical attachments with are the last few books in the Redwall series. Brain Jacques had a new book released every year just before my birthday, so for three or four birthdays I received his most recent one as a gift.
All of my read books have some form of memory walk contained in them, but the above mentioned ones are the ones that stand out the most for me.
The sorrowful emotional attachments would have to be "The Scarlet Letter" by Nathaniel Hawthorne. This is the book that I was reading when my dad had his heart attack. It was also the last book that I ever discussed with him. The other one being "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and Other Tales" by Washington Irving. It was the book that I was reading when my dad died a few weeks later after surviving his heart attack. "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" was the book that I tried to immerse myself with after my dad's passing, but found myself rereading the same sentences over and over again. I don't know if I would be able to reread these three books again without reopening these wounds.
As it is, those wounds have been peeling open all of this week, never having actually healed to begin with. My dear father passed away this very day, three years ago. Tomorrow would of been his birthday.
But of all of those books, it is my own mother's published books that contain the most memories for me. She writes of our family, of my father's cancer diagnosis and treatment, and later of his death, and the death of a cherished eight year old grandson (my nephew) Jacob.
This blog posting is dedicated to my Father (David Kenyon) who now resides in Heaven. I love, and miss you dad. It is also dedicated to my beautiful, loving Mother (Mary Potter Kenyon). One of the strongest women that I have ever had the privilege of knowing, and of whom I couldn't be more proud of. Thank you both for encouraging my love of reading.
Thursday, March 26, 2015
The smell of books
Don't pretend that you don't do it, or at least haven't done it at one time or another in your life. This is a safe place, and you can be honest here. All book lovers have at one point in their reading life, been known to sniff the book that they were holding in their hands. You may have guiltily looked around first to make sure that you were alone, before tentatively bringing the book that you are holding in your hands up to your face and taking one very quick sniff before you just as quickly withdraw it again. You then glance around to make sure that no one just witnessed that embarrassing episode. Or you may be like me. Openly a book sniffer. I have a addiction to the smell of books.
New books, and old books have very different smells too. Everyone's familiar with the smell of old books, the weirdly intoxicating scent that haunts second-hand bookstores. Similarly, who doesn't enjoy riffling through the pages of a newly purchased book and breathing in the crisp aroma of new paper and freshly printed ink?
A new book smells of fresh paper, ink, glue, and possibly leather depending on what material the book is bound in. It may not sound like a very tantalizing smell, but I dare you to smell one and tell me otherwise.
A old book has these smells as well, but age has changed them. One description is described as "A combination of grassy notes with a tang of acids and a hint of vanilla over a underlying mustiness". Generally, it is the chemical breakdown of compounds within the paper that develops that 'old book smell'. There is a reason for the hint of vanilla too. Older books contain lignin in the paper. Lignin is closely related to vanillin. As it breaks down, the lignin grants old books that faint vanilla scent.
All second-hand books must pass the sniff test before being purchased by me. Some older books were improperly stored by previous owners. Left in boxes in a garage or a attic. These books may have been exposed to moisture, and now have noticeable damage such as mold. Sometimes the only way to tell is the smell. A overly strong mustiness is not appealing to me, I will bypass on these books based on the smell alone. Other books have a overwhelming smell of smoke. I won't buy these books either. I find that the smell will not abate given time, and can also transfer to books that it is touching. Did I ever mention before now that I am a book snob? Because I am. They must not only pass the test of appearance, but also the sniff test, before being added to my collection of literature.
And yes, I randomly will smell a book that I am reading.
New books, and old books have very different smells too. Everyone's familiar with the smell of old books, the weirdly intoxicating scent that haunts second-hand bookstores. Similarly, who doesn't enjoy riffling through the pages of a newly purchased book and breathing in the crisp aroma of new paper and freshly printed ink?
A new book smells of fresh paper, ink, glue, and possibly leather depending on what material the book is bound in. It may not sound like a very tantalizing smell, but I dare you to smell one and tell me otherwise.
A old book has these smells as well, but age has changed them. One description is described as "A combination of grassy notes with a tang of acids and a hint of vanilla over a underlying mustiness". Generally, it is the chemical breakdown of compounds within the paper that develops that 'old book smell'. There is a reason for the hint of vanilla too. Older books contain lignin in the paper. Lignin is closely related to vanillin. As it breaks down, the lignin grants old books that faint vanilla scent.
All second-hand books must pass the sniff test before being purchased by me. Some older books were improperly stored by previous owners. Left in boxes in a garage or a attic. These books may have been exposed to moisture, and now have noticeable damage such as mold. Sometimes the only way to tell is the smell. A overly strong mustiness is not appealing to me, I will bypass on these books based on the smell alone. Other books have a overwhelming smell of smoke. I won't buy these books either. I find that the smell will not abate given time, and can also transfer to books that it is touching. Did I ever mention before now that I am a book snob? Because I am. They must not only pass the test of appearance, but also the sniff test, before being added to my collection of literature.
And yes, I randomly will smell a book that I am reading.
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
The Controversy behind Harper Lee's "Go Set a Watchman"
Some of you may be aware of the controversy concerning author Harper Lee's soon to be released book "Go Set a Watchman". Some are claiming that Harper Lee is not of sound mind, and is being taken advantage of. It is being said that "Go Set a Watchman" was a failure in Lee's opinion, and she never intended to have it published. "Go Set a Watchman" Is sequel to "To Kill a Mockingbird", but both Lee and her publisher were not satisfied with the results and decided to not go forward with it. Therefore "To Kill a Mockingbird" was Lee's first, and final book. A one hit wonder. Until now. I have heard many different thoughts and opinions on this discussion. Some claiming that Harper Lee is of sound mind, and is excited to go forward with this book release. And more dark ones that claim that Harper's sister, and lawyer, both protected her and her rights, and that these two people just recently passed away last year, leaving this elderly woman, who is both hard of hearing and going blind, alone and vulnerable. They claim that the vultures are preying on her.
I have mixed feelings on this, and I don't quite know what to think on the subject. In the end I will purchase, and read the book. It will sadden me if the book disappoints, but if the sequel lives up to the original, then it will become a asset to the world of literature. If the book does disappoint, I shall do my best to pretend that it does not exist, and go forward with the notion that "To Kill a Mockingbird" is a stand alone book. I don't think that people should be made to feel guilty for purchasing, and reading, this book. I do hope that Harper is on board with this however, and is both fully aware and of sound mind when it comes to the publishing of her "Go Set a Watchman". She will no longer be the one hit wonder that she has come to be known, but more books out there by a talented author is not a bad thing.
Below are some articles that I have linked to this post. The New York Times seemly is based on the author being of unsound mind, while The Huffington Post seemly is based around the author being of sound mind. Read both, and see what conclusion you come to on this controversy.
Monday, March 23, 2015
To read, or not to read? That is the question
The look. That odd, who just farted, kind of look that you receive from a non reader when they discover that you actually do read. Yes, books, not just the back of the cereal box. Or that exaggerated "You read?!", as if you just disclosed that you are secretly a millionaire. *Sigh* I cannot even begin to tell you how many times I have had both of those reactions directed towards me. Sometimes both at once. Double whammy. Now I give the odd, who just farted, look right back at them while blurting out "You don't read?!".
You know what the most popular response to that question is? I don't have time to read.
Really? You don't have time. You have time to browse Facebook, or watch your favorite television shows, but you don't have time to read books. Let's just be honest, and instead of saying that you don't have time to read, just come right out and say that you choose not to read. You make time for the things that you enjoy. Don't blame the books, blame yourself. It is easy enough to find some spare time too. Read during your lunch breaks while at work (One of my favorite ways of getting in some extra reading time), read during commercials while watching television (I also do this), if you must, read while on the toilet (was I able to sneak that one in there?).
One of the first signs of a non reader, is the glazed over look that comes into their eyes when you attempt to discuss the book that you are currently reading. You can literally stop talking mid sentence, and they won't even realize that your conversation has come to a halt.
You know what the most popular response to that question is? I don't have time to read.
Really? You don't have time. You have time to browse Facebook, or watch your favorite television shows, but you don't have time to read books. Let's just be honest, and instead of saying that you don't have time to read, just come right out and say that you choose not to read. You make time for the things that you enjoy. Don't blame the books, blame yourself. It is easy enough to find some spare time too. Read during your lunch breaks while at work (One of my favorite ways of getting in some extra reading time), read during commercials while watching television (I also do this), if you must, read while on the toilet (was I able to sneak that one in there?).
One of the first signs of a non reader, is the glazed over look that comes into their eyes when you attempt to discuss the book that you are currently reading. You can literally stop talking mid sentence, and they won't even realize that your conversation has come to a halt.
According to a HuffPost/YouGov poll asking 1,000 U.S. adults about their reading habits, 41 percent of respondents had not read a fiction book in the past year; 42 percent had not read a nonfiction book.
There's overlap between the groups -- 28 percent of respondents did not read a book at all in the past year, while 25 percent read between one and five books, 15 percent read between six and ten books, 20 percent read between 11 and 50, and eight percent read more than 50.
Sunday, March 22, 2015
Deciding what to read next
When you finish reading a book, how do you decide what to read next? It is a very complicated process. Do you want to read the same genre that you just finished reading, or move on to a different genre? If you just read a large, make you think, kind of classic, do you go on to the next classic, or do you need to give your brain a rest with a light fluff read in between? If you are reading a series, do you do a book marathon and read them back to back, or do you need a break from the series and read other books as you go, as well?
I really don't think that I have a go to plan on this subject. I just do what feels right. If I am reading a series, I will read the series straight through before reading anything else (for instance, I am currently reading the Sherlock Holmes series). Genre depends entirely on what my mood is. If I just finished reading a book from the fiction genre, I may read more from this genre after finishing the current read, or I may decide to read a completely different genre, such as, horror or fantasy. Sometimes I already have the next read picked out while I am currently reading another book, and it has nothing to do with genre but rather with my desire to read a particular book. And I typically read classics back to back. Classics consist mainly of what I read (remember I mentioned a few times previously that I am a book snob?), preferring them over newer, more modern books (don't get me wrong, there are some very well written books being published these days, they are just few and far between). I am not much of a fluff reader, and fluff reads actually makes my brain melt more then the act of just reading classics straight through without a lighter read here and there to break it up.
I really don't think that I have a go to plan on this subject. I just do what feels right. If I am reading a series, I will read the series straight through before reading anything else (for instance, I am currently reading the Sherlock Holmes series). Genre depends entirely on what my mood is. If I just finished reading a book from the fiction genre, I may read more from this genre after finishing the current read, or I may decide to read a completely different genre, such as, horror or fantasy. Sometimes I already have the next read picked out while I am currently reading another book, and it has nothing to do with genre but rather with my desire to read a particular book. And I typically read classics back to back. Classics consist mainly of what I read (remember I mentioned a few times previously that I am a book snob?), preferring them over newer, more modern books (don't get me wrong, there are some very well written books being published these days, they are just few and far between). I am not much of a fluff reader, and fluff reads actually makes my brain melt more then the act of just reading classics straight through without a lighter read here and there to break it up.
The Hound of the Baskervilles by Arthur Conan Doyle
It's easy to see why "The Hound of the Baskervilles" is not only one of the more easily recognized books of the Sherlock Holmes series ("The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes" coming in second place), but is also considered the greatest of Doyle's pieces. This piece was also the resurrection of Sherlock Holmes, since Doyle had decided to end the Sherlock Holmes series in "The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes". Doyle's imagination took flight upon hearing of a legend of a ferocious black dog which haunted the countryside. The wheels started turning, and Doyle was inspired to write another book on Sherlock, when earlier he had decided to pull the plug and call it quits. I for one, am glad that Sherlock was brought back for more books.
"You interest me very much, Mr. Holmes. I had hardly expected so dolichocephalic a skull or such well-marked supra-orbital development. Would you have any objection to my running my finger along your parietal fissure? A cast of your skull, sir, until the original is available, would be an ornament to any anthropological museum. It is not my intention to be fulsome, but I confess that I covet your skull".
This taken from the beginning of the book made me chuckle. Can you even imagine, having just met someone, have them tell you this? And in this fashion? And Sherlock doesn't even bat a eye.
As the series continues on, I find myself increasingly annoyed by Watson. His desperate need for Sherlock's approval is just overwhelmingly pathetic. He is like a dog, wanting a pat on the head. He worships Sherlock. His obsessiveness with the female characters is also becoming a bit of a annoyance. And just a tad bit confusing ...
My rating : *****
"You interest me very much, Mr. Holmes. I had hardly expected so dolichocephalic a skull or such well-marked supra-orbital development. Would you have any objection to my running my finger along your parietal fissure? A cast of your skull, sir, until the original is available, would be an ornament to any anthropological museum. It is not my intention to be fulsome, but I confess that I covet your skull".
This taken from the beginning of the book made me chuckle. Can you even imagine, having just met someone, have them tell you this? And in this fashion? And Sherlock doesn't even bat a eye.
As the series continues on, I find myself increasingly annoyed by Watson. His desperate need for Sherlock's approval is just overwhelmingly pathetic. He is like a dog, wanting a pat on the head. He worships Sherlock. His obsessiveness with the female characters is also becoming a bit of a annoyance. And just a tad bit confusing ...
My rating : *****
Saturday, March 21, 2015
Counting my blessings
While taking photographs of my bookshelves today, I became curious as to just how many books I own to date. I decided to count them. I have 219 physical books, but many of my books consist of multiple novels in one, so if bringing that into consideration I actually own over 288 books total.
I am always adding to my collection, and my dream is to someday have floor to ceiling, book filled bookshelves, lining the walls.
While not a huge fan of the multiple novel books, preferring to have my books as singular novels, I did fall in love with the Barnes and Noble multiple novel leather bound editions and have slowly purchased most of them through the years. Such beautifully crafted editions for reasonable prices. Barnes and Noble
I will purchase novels as singular copies when I find editions that I wish to own, so I do own multiple copies of the same book.
I am always adding to my collection, and my dream is to someday have floor to ceiling, book filled bookshelves, lining the walls.
While not a huge fan of the multiple novel books, preferring to have my books as singular novels, I did fall in love with the Barnes and Noble multiple novel leather bound editions and have slowly purchased most of them through the years. Such beautifully crafted editions for reasonable prices. Barnes and Noble
I will purchase novels as singular copies when I find editions that I wish to own, so I do own multiple copies of the same book.
Friday, March 20, 2015
Organization and alphabetization
How do you arrange your bookshelf/bookshelves? Do you alphabetize according to author, genre, or subject? Do you organize them based on color and/or size of the books?
Surprisingly, considering that I am not only a perfectionist, but am also OCD on certain subjects, I arrange my books in what can only be seen as chaotic by a outsider. I try to alphabetize according to author and genre, but the OCD me wants to arrange by size and color as well. The perfectionist me can't stand to have mismatched shelves, with tall and short books married in a hideous and unnatural union. All books stand upright, with spines facing outward and evenly. But ask me to locate a book, and I can do so, both quickly and efficiently.
Surprisingly, considering that I am not only a perfectionist, but am also OCD on certain subjects, I arrange my books in what can only be seen as chaotic by a outsider. I try to alphabetize according to author and genre, but the OCD me wants to arrange by size and color as well. The perfectionist me can't stand to have mismatched shelves, with tall and short books married in a hideous and unnatural union. All books stand upright, with spines facing outward and evenly. But ask me to locate a book, and I can do so, both quickly and efficiently.
Thursday, March 19, 2015
My Half Price Books Splurge
The Collected Works of F. Scott Fitzgerald - "This side of Paradise", "The Beautiful and Damned", "The Great Gatsby", "Tender is the Night", "The Diamond as big as the Ritz", "The Love of the last Tycoon", "May Day".
A trilogy of, "The Land that time Forgot", "The people that time Forgot", "Out of time's Abyss", by Edgar Rice Burroughs
"The Mystery of Edwin Drood" by Charles Dickens, illustrated
"The Legend of Sleepy Hollow & other Macabre Tales" by Washington Irving
"The Woman in White" by Wilkie Collins, illustrated
"Vanity Fair" by William Makepeace Thackeray, illustrated
The ones that most excited me, were, "The Woman in White", and, "Vanity Fair". "The Woman in White" is a Heritage Press 1964 with illustrations. The "Vanity Fair" is a Random House 1958 with beautiful illustrations, as seen in the pictures below:
Half Price Books
What really gives me a adrenaline rush, and gets my blood pumping, is a book shopping spree. A book sale, a garage sale, a library book sale, a used book store, a new book store, it doesn't matter, they all give me my junkie fix. For a short period of time, that is. My most frequented haunting is my local Half Price Books. A used book store, where you can find anything from signed first editions, to new books, to old collectible books. I don't go there nearly as often as I would like to, because of the driving distance, but I do try to make a trip there at least once a month. I usually am able to find at least one exciting book that makes the trip worthwhile.
On the drive over I plan out the floor plan. First I'll hit up the section containing older collectible editions of books. This section sometimes consists of valuable editions, which are either signed, and/or a first edition. Easton Press also sometimes lurks in this section. There are some more affordable selections filling the shelves too however. A true book collectors dream. Then after scanning these shelves (and possibly scoring, with one or more finds), I will head over to fiction. I don't typically buy paperbacks, preferring hardcovers, so my strategy is to just scan the shelves for older hardcovers, or leather bound hardcovers. I of course pay attention to the titles, and don't just buy at random. They also must be in good shape. And pass the sniff test, they must (don't tell me that you don't smell your books). Sometimes I find a better version of a book that I already own, and then I have to make the decision of whether or not I want to replace my current edition with it. There is a whole system to this, you see. Then I will quickly pop down science fiction, fantasy, and horror, and scan the shelves for above mentioned books. They tuck the classics in these sections as well. Then my final stop is the children's classic section. Yes, I also both own, and read, children's classics. And I have found some really beautiful ones too.
The floor plan is routed out, I arrive at the doors, collect my cart (always select the cart vs the basket, you never know what you are about to find. Go big, or go home), and then the red light turns green, and I'm off! You see, for some reason I always feel like I am in a race when book shopping. My heart rate increases, my suspicion levels skyrockets, and suddenly everyone else in the store is a danger to me. Even the employees aren't to be trusted. They might get to the precious before I do. They might already have the precious! Suddenly I am looking into everyone's shopping carts and baskets to make sure that they didn't take anything that I might want. And if I do see something that I want, I feel inclined to follow that person around the store to see if they decide against it, and put it back on the shelves. What I usually end up doing is desperately grab books left and right, as if my life depended on it, and later when I have completed my floor plan I can calmly sort through them and make my final selections.
... The first step is admitting that you have a problem, but I don't have a problem.
On the drive over I plan out the floor plan. First I'll hit up the section containing older collectible editions of books. This section sometimes consists of valuable editions, which are either signed, and/or a first edition. Easton Press also sometimes lurks in this section. There are some more affordable selections filling the shelves too however. A true book collectors dream. Then after scanning these shelves (and possibly scoring, with one or more finds), I will head over to fiction. I don't typically buy paperbacks, preferring hardcovers, so my strategy is to just scan the shelves for older hardcovers, or leather bound hardcovers. I of course pay attention to the titles, and don't just buy at random. They also must be in good shape. And pass the sniff test, they must (don't tell me that you don't smell your books). Sometimes I find a better version of a book that I already own, and then I have to make the decision of whether or not I want to replace my current edition with it. There is a whole system to this, you see. Then I will quickly pop down science fiction, fantasy, and horror, and scan the shelves for above mentioned books. They tuck the classics in these sections as well. Then my final stop is the children's classic section. Yes, I also both own, and read, children's classics. And I have found some really beautiful ones too.
The floor plan is routed out, I arrive at the doors, collect my cart (always select the cart vs the basket, you never know what you are about to find. Go big, or go home), and then the red light turns green, and I'm off! You see, for some reason I always feel like I am in a race when book shopping. My heart rate increases, my suspicion levels skyrockets, and suddenly everyone else in the store is a danger to me. Even the employees aren't to be trusted. They might get to the precious before I do. They might already have the precious! Suddenly I am looking into everyone's shopping carts and baskets to make sure that they didn't take anything that I might want. And if I do see something that I want, I feel inclined to follow that person around the store to see if they decide against it, and put it back on the shelves. What I usually end up doing is desperately grab books left and right, as if my life depended on it, and later when I have completed my floor plan I can calmly sort through them and make my final selections.
... The first step is admitting that you have a problem, but I don't have a problem.
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
Goodreads
I highly recommend Goodreads to any, and all types of readers. Goodreads is like a virtual bookshelf. You have your shelf for "read" books (this feature is great since I can now view not only when I read a certain book, but how long it took me to read it. And I can also see how many books I read in a year), You have your shelf for books that you are currently reading, and your shelf for your want to read books (mine easily consists of over one hundred different titles). You can also create custom bookshelves. You can rate and review books, as well as read other Goodreads members reviews (I find it all too easy to lose all track of time when I wander over to the review section. As I have mentioned before, I find other people's opinions on books completely engrossing). I also find the book recommendations very helpful and insightful. I have discovered new titles and authors through this feature. The yearly reading challenge option is fun, while also encouraging you to read more. You set your goal of how many books you would like to try to read for the year, and try to meet that goal by the end of the year. There are also groups that you can join and interact with. But one of my absolute favorite features is being able to add friends and family, and being able to see what they are reading, and what their opinions are on books that they either have read or are reading.
Goodreads
You can follow me on Goodreads, my username is Rachel Kenyon
Goodreads
You can follow me on Goodreads, my username is Rachel Kenyon
Tuesday, March 17, 2015
My failed attempt at joining a book club
I failed at my attempt of joining a local book club. A book club has many perks, one of which is introducing the reader to different genres that they might possibly not otherwise read, and which they might realize that they actually enjoy. That reader may of never tried that certain book, in that certain genre, without that little push. The other perk is being able to get together with other readers in order to discuss the current pick. I loved that aspect of our local book club. I find it interesting to hear other peoples opinions and thoughts when it comes to books, and getting to really break the book down and fully absorb and digest it. Books speak uniquely to their readers.
I failed at being a good little member of the book club because I don't like being told what to read. At this point of my reading life I know what I like, and what I don't like, when it comes to my books. I have a wide range of genres that I read, but I am really picky about what books I do read in those genres. I am a self proclaimed book snob. I admit it. Book snob, right here ladies and gentlemen. Being in a book club and being made to read each monthly pick, makes me feel like I am being assigned a book report on a book that I have absolutely no interest in reading. It wouldn't of been such a daunting task for me if the reads weren't repeatedly what I consider to be fluff reads, and were instead some of the more typical book club classic choices. Hand me a heavy classic and I will gleefully read it, but hand me a fluff novel and you will meet resistance on my part.
Book clubs are wonderful, for all of the reasons that I listed above and more, but I'm apparently too stubborn and snobbish to benefit from one.
I failed at being a good little member of the book club because I don't like being told what to read. At this point of my reading life I know what I like, and what I don't like, when it comes to my books. I have a wide range of genres that I read, but I am really picky about what books I do read in those genres. I am a self proclaimed book snob. I admit it. Book snob, right here ladies and gentlemen. Being in a book club and being made to read each monthly pick, makes me feel like I am being assigned a book report on a book that I have absolutely no interest in reading. It wouldn't of been such a daunting task for me if the reads weren't repeatedly what I consider to be fluff reads, and were instead some of the more typical book club classic choices. Hand me a heavy classic and I will gleefully read it, but hand me a fluff novel and you will meet resistance on my part.
Book clubs are wonderful, for all of the reasons that I listed above and more, but I'm apparently too stubborn and snobbish to benefit from one.
Put the book down
No, this isn't a posting where I advise you to stop living through your books and instead get out there and live in the real world. That's crazy talk. Rather this is a posting where I walk you through the guidelines of when it is time to just put the book down and call it quits.
I used to have a rule with myself, that all books started by me, must be finished by me. It took me a long time to break myself of that habit, and many wasted hours that could of been spent reading better material. I think that the turning point for myself was when I started reading more of the classics. As I have stated previously, I am a self proclaimed book snob, and I blame it all on the very first classic that I ever picked up.
Being a book snob isn't necessary a bad thing however. I can instantly judge a book by the description given either on the back of the book or on the inside of the dust jacket. Is this a book that I want to read? Never judge a book by its cover, but totally judge a book by its description (but we all know that the cover is the first thing that grabs your eye when book browsing, so you do totally judge a book by its cover). If that method fails me, then I can usually tell if a book is a worthwhile read within the first chapter, sometimes the really poorly constructed books are quick one pager judgments. Usually it doesn't pass my writing standards, simply put. But sometimes the writing passes under my radar and it is the story line that is the disappointment. When this happens, just let it go (yes, I just did that). Put the book down. In really desperate cases burn it, use it for toilet paper, add it to your compost heap, whatever you've got to do to erase the atrociousness from your eyes, and your mind. I usually don't abide with burning books, or the soiling and destruction of books, but lets all just admit here that some books never should of been published in the first place (*cough*) so maybe we are literature heroes, saving the day and stopping crime. Yeah, I like the sound of that ... hero ("Kill it! Kill it with fire!" Yeah, that just happened too).
If you aren't a hardcore reader and stick mainly to what I personally would consider a fluff read, then that's all well and good too. This is about putting down a book that you aren't enjoying rather then feeling obligated to finish it. Any reader is a good reader in my opinion. Fluff or no fluff. Whatever gets a person reading can't be entirely a bad thing. But when it comes to personal tastes, ain't nobody got time for dat (that totally just happened).
I used to have a rule with myself, that all books started by me, must be finished by me. It took me a long time to break myself of that habit, and many wasted hours that could of been spent reading better material. I think that the turning point for myself was when I started reading more of the classics. As I have stated previously, I am a self proclaimed book snob, and I blame it all on the very first classic that I ever picked up.
Being a book snob isn't necessary a bad thing however. I can instantly judge a book by the description given either on the back of the book or on the inside of the dust jacket. Is this a book that I want to read? Never judge a book by its cover, but totally judge a book by its description (but we all know that the cover is the first thing that grabs your eye when book browsing, so you do totally judge a book by its cover). If that method fails me, then I can usually tell if a book is a worthwhile read within the first chapter, sometimes the really poorly constructed books are quick one pager judgments. Usually it doesn't pass my writing standards, simply put. But sometimes the writing passes under my radar and it is the story line that is the disappointment. When this happens, just let it go (yes, I just did that). Put the book down. In really desperate cases burn it, use it for toilet paper, add it to your compost heap, whatever you've got to do to erase the atrociousness from your eyes, and your mind. I usually don't abide with burning books, or the soiling and destruction of books, but lets all just admit here that some books never should of been published in the first place (*cough*) so maybe we are literature heroes, saving the day and stopping crime. Yeah, I like the sound of that ... hero ("Kill it! Kill it with fire!" Yeah, that just happened too).
If you aren't a hardcore reader and stick mainly to what I personally would consider a fluff read, then that's all well and good too. This is about putting down a book that you aren't enjoying rather then feeling obligated to finish it. Any reader is a good reader in my opinion. Fluff or no fluff. Whatever gets a person reading can't be entirely a bad thing. But when it comes to personal tastes, ain't nobody got time for dat (that totally just happened).
Monday, March 16, 2015
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
Some interesting facts about J.D. Salinger's "The Catcher in the Rye" :
Mark David Chapman, the man who shot John Lennon, was reading a copy of "The Catcher in the Rye" when he was arrested. He said in his police statement that the larger part of his personality was Holden Caulfied , while the smaller part of his personality was Satan.
Police found a copy of the novel in John Hinckley Jr's apartment after he shot Ronald Reagan in 1981. Hinckley said he shot Reagan to impress actress Jodie Foster, whom he'd been stalking.
In 1989, Robert John Bardo stalked and murdered actress Rebecca Schaeffer at her home. He was carrying a copy of the book when he was arrested.
That is the only interesting thing about this book. Apparently murderers enjoy it. Should I feel relieved then, that I hate this book with every fiber of my being? From the very first sentence, in the very first chapter I knew how my feelings would be on this book. I will be honest in my review and say that I did not make it past the ninety page mark. I felt that I gave it more then a fair chance. There are too many good books out there to waste your time reading one that you despise. The writing ... was J.D. Salinger even a real author? How did this book get published let alone become a well known classic? The writing was just bloody awful, it made me cringe. I read classics to avoid this kind of writing ... this is like a cruel joke. Let's set aside the writing and focus on the story line for a minute ... oh wait, there isn't one! For the ninety pages that I did read, nothing happened. I'm used to slow paced books, but in ninety pages we didn't even get through one crumbly night of Holden's crumbly life (did I mention that the same phrases keep popping up over, and over, and over again!). I dislike Holden very much so. He is perverted and foul mouthed. Maybe he has some redeeming qualities further on in the book but I didn't care enough to find out. All of the characters in this book are as flat as the paper that they were written on. That aside, I couldn't stomach all of the vulgar language and sexual content. For instance, did you know that "Goddamn" is used exactly 245 times in this book?
This book is not going back on the shelf. I'm going to sell it and use the money to buy a real classic.
My rating : *
Mark David Chapman, the man who shot John Lennon, was reading a copy of "The Catcher in the Rye" when he was arrested. He said in his police statement that the larger part of his personality was Holden Caulfied , while the smaller part of his personality was Satan.
Police found a copy of the novel in John Hinckley Jr's apartment after he shot Ronald Reagan in 1981. Hinckley said he shot Reagan to impress actress Jodie Foster, whom he'd been stalking.
In 1989, Robert John Bardo stalked and murdered actress Rebecca Schaeffer at her home. He was carrying a copy of the book when he was arrested.
That is the only interesting thing about this book. Apparently murderers enjoy it. Should I feel relieved then, that I hate this book with every fiber of my being? From the very first sentence, in the very first chapter I knew how my feelings would be on this book. I will be honest in my review and say that I did not make it past the ninety page mark. I felt that I gave it more then a fair chance. There are too many good books out there to waste your time reading one that you despise. The writing ... was J.D. Salinger even a real author? How did this book get published let alone become a well known classic? The writing was just bloody awful, it made me cringe. I read classics to avoid this kind of writing ... this is like a cruel joke. Let's set aside the writing and focus on the story line for a minute ... oh wait, there isn't one! For the ninety pages that I did read, nothing happened. I'm used to slow paced books, but in ninety pages we didn't even get through one crumbly night of Holden's crumbly life (did I mention that the same phrases keep popping up over, and over, and over again!). I dislike Holden very much so. He is perverted and foul mouthed. Maybe he has some redeeming qualities further on in the book but I didn't care enough to find out. All of the characters in this book are as flat as the paper that they were written on. That aside, I couldn't stomach all of the vulgar language and sexual content. For instance, did you know that "Goddamn" is used exactly 245 times in this book?
This book is not going back on the shelf. I'm going to sell it and use the money to buy a real classic.
My rating : *
The Return of Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle
Bravo Arthur Conan Doyle. You pulled off Sherlock Holmes miraculous return from the grave while tying up all loose ends and pulling it all together nicely.
It amuses me to read of the bumbling Hopkins and Lestrade who continue misinterpreting Sherlock's observations, and just overlooking clues altogether. They appear to be there just to let Sherlock's genius shine through.
I am also very impressed with the descriptions and seemly vast knowledge of London that Doyle describes in detail, because he himself had admitted that he had very limited knowledge prior to writing the books and 'worked it all out from a post-office map'.
My rating : ****
It amuses me to read of the bumbling Hopkins and Lestrade who continue misinterpreting Sherlock's observations, and just overlooking clues altogether. They appear to be there just to let Sherlock's genius shine through.
I am also very impressed with the descriptions and seemly vast knowledge of London that Doyle describes in detail, because he himself had admitted that he had very limited knowledge prior to writing the books and 'worked it all out from a post-office map'.
My rating : ****
The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle
This was a interesting one. Although admittedly not as exciting as the former three books in the series, it did contain some fascinating background on our infamous antihero Sherlock Holmes. It takes us all the way back to his college days where he solved his first mystery. Sherlock Holmes always was superior in his deduction and observational skills, but this was the first time that he realised that he could use his skill sets for something bigger, rather then just as a means of amusing himself and astounding others. Thereafter he set out on his life's path as one of the greatest detectives of his day. We are also introduced to Sherlock's older brother Mycroft. Sherlock readily admits that Mycroft is not only smarter then him, but that he also has a better observational perspective then him. Mycroft however lacks ambition and drive. The ability is there, but the passion is not. Moriarty also makes a appearance in this book. The only villain that is Sherlock's equal.
The last chapter titled The Final Problem was supposed to showcase the death of Sherlock Holmes. The author fully intended to kill off Sherlock so as to bring the series to a end. From 1893 to 1901 Sherlock Holmes was dead to his readers and fans. Arthur Conan Doyle had no regrets about his decision to kill Sherlock, but it was his decision to bring Sherlock back to life. He seemly embraced Sherlock as a character after that, writing five more books. One wonders if he ever actually fully intended to kill him off however, seeing how Sherlock met his end. Too easily was his death able to be scratched in the feature and explained in another light in order to declare that he never actually did die. Perhaps the author purposely left a opening in case he decided to bring the beloved detective back someday? I for one am glad that he did. He was also continually and consistently badgered however by publishers and fans alike to revive Sherlock Holmes, so possibly he was just trying to please people and give them what they wanted, but his latter works would suggest otherwise. The Hound of the Baskervilles being declared one of his finest pieces.
My rating : ****
The last chapter titled The Final Problem was supposed to showcase the death of Sherlock Holmes. The author fully intended to kill off Sherlock so as to bring the series to a end. From 1893 to 1901 Sherlock Holmes was dead to his readers and fans. Arthur Conan Doyle had no regrets about his decision to kill Sherlock, but it was his decision to bring Sherlock back to life. He seemly embraced Sherlock as a character after that, writing five more books. One wonders if he ever actually fully intended to kill him off however, seeing how Sherlock met his end. Too easily was his death able to be scratched in the feature and explained in another light in order to declare that he never actually did die. Perhaps the author purposely left a opening in case he decided to bring the beloved detective back someday? I for one am glad that he did. He was also continually and consistently badgered however by publishers and fans alike to revive Sherlock Holmes, so possibly he was just trying to please people and give them what they wanted, but his latter works would suggest otherwise. The Hound of the Baskervilles being declared one of his finest pieces.
My rating : ****
The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle
"A Study in Scarlet" and "The Sign of the Four" consisted of a single mystery, whereas "The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes" is a combination of short mysteries. While the former two has the opportunity of having more depth, I personally enjoyed these short stories as one of my favorite parts is the wrap-up performed by Sherlock Holmes. We meet 'The Woman' aka Irene Adler. Seemly the only woman who Sherlock respects and admires, as he does tend to be a little bit of a sexist. The Ku Klux Klan also make a appearance. And that's just to name a very select few. I feel that Holmes is growing and developing more as a lead character here. He appears to be showcased as slightly less robotic, and even shows what could be considered human tenderness and compassion at times. *Gasp* Holmes apparently is also a master of disguise, often cloaking himself in a disguise in order to do undercover investigations. As with the first two books in the series Dr. Watson narrates, and we are shown the cases through his eyes. Personally I find him to be a dull character who contributes nothing to the cause, but he is also a necessary part of the story. Watson allows the story to flow. His character gives Holmes someone to converse with, and also allows, us the readers, to have a front seat viewing to the unveiling of these marvelous mysteries.
My rating : *****
My rating : *****
The Sign of Four by Arthur Conan Doyle
Sherlock Holmes took his bottle from the corner of the mantelpiece, and his hypodermic syringe from its neat morocco case. With his long, white, nervous fingers he adjusted the delicate needle and rolled back his left shirt-cuff. For some little time his eyes rested thoughtfully upon the sinewy forearm and wrist, all dotted and scarred with innumerable puncture-marks. Finally, he thrust the sharp point home, pressed down the tiny piston, and sank back into the velvet-lined armchair with a long sigh of satisfaction.
Thus begins our opening chapter in Arthur Conan Doyle's second book in the Sherlock Holmes series. You have to admire the authors daring when he had his iconic detective shoot up cocaine in a effort to cure his boredom. I feel that this insight adds to the character of Sherlock Holmes. He is a genius, with unnatural observational and deduction skills that serve him as a detective. On the case he is focused and driven, off the case he appears to be unable to be alone with his thoughts and administers cocaine as a way of coping with his boredom and lack of interest in life.
"The division seems rather unfair," I remarked. "You have done all the work in this business. I get a wife out of it, Jones gets the credit, pray what remains for you?".
"For me," said Sherlock Holmes, "there still remains the cocaine-bottle." And he stretched his long white hand up for it.
Personally his anti hero character draws me in. It is rather fun in a way to enter the brilliant and seemly inhuman mind of Sherlock Holmes.
In this story we also have the villains of course. A wooden legged man and his sidekick of whom is a savage dwarf from the bushman tribes in Africa. He is described as having hideous features, a bulbous head, and dainty little baby feet. We also have the homeless network. Sherlock Holmes homeless network consists of street boys in which he uses as his eyes and ears. After all as Sherlock himself says, they are seen and yet unseen.
My rating : *****
Thus begins our opening chapter in Arthur Conan Doyle's second book in the Sherlock Holmes series. You have to admire the authors daring when he had his iconic detective shoot up cocaine in a effort to cure his boredom. I feel that this insight adds to the character of Sherlock Holmes. He is a genius, with unnatural observational and deduction skills that serve him as a detective. On the case he is focused and driven, off the case he appears to be unable to be alone with his thoughts and administers cocaine as a way of coping with his boredom and lack of interest in life.
"The division seems rather unfair," I remarked. "You have done all the work in this business. I get a wife out of it, Jones gets the credit, pray what remains for you?".
"For me," said Sherlock Holmes, "there still remains the cocaine-bottle." And he stretched his long white hand up for it.
Personally his anti hero character draws me in. It is rather fun in a way to enter the brilliant and seemly inhuman mind of Sherlock Holmes.
In this story we also have the villains of course. A wooden legged man and his sidekick of whom is a savage dwarf from the bushman tribes in Africa. He is described as having hideous features, a bulbous head, and dainty little baby feet. We also have the homeless network. Sherlock Holmes homeless network consists of street boys in which he uses as his eyes and ears. After all as Sherlock himself says, they are seen and yet unseen.
My rating : *****
A Study in Scarlet by Arthur Conan Doyle
Sherlock Holmes where have you been all of my life? This is one of those books that has been on my to read list for several years now, but one that I haven't picked up until just now ... despite the complete series being in my own personal library. I wish that I would have picked this one up sooner. There are several words that could describe this book, genius and brilliant being just some of them.
Amazingly enough is the fact that the Sherlock Holmes stories were written quickly and carelessly by the author, who felt that his literary fame would rest on other, more serious works. But Sherlock Holmes is, and always will be, considered Arthur Conan Doyle's best pieces and is known worldwide.
Sherlock Holmes himself could be viewed as a very unlikable and disagreeable person. He loves the hunt, and one could say that when he is on a case is the only time that he truly comes alive. Off the case he appears to have severe bouts of boredom and depression. He cares nothing for the victims, and it seems that he cares for no one else other then himself. His lack of empathy and self absorbed personality could be considered borderline sociopath. He would not be called humble. He basks in others praise of himself, and takes delight in walking others through the case and pointing out his genius and superior mind."Elementary, my dear Watson". Despite this, I still like him. I find him intriguing and curious as a character.
Sherlock Holmes - his limits
1. Knowledge of Literature. - Nil.
2. Knowledge of Philosophy. - Nil.
3. Knowledge of Astronomy. - Nil.
4. Knowledge of Politics. - Feeble.
5. Knowledge of Botany. - Variable. Well up in belladonna, opium, and poisons generally. Knows nothing of practical gardening.
6. Knowledge of Geology. - Practical, but limited. Tells at a glance different soils from each other. After walks has shown me splashes upon his trousers, and told me by their colour and consistence in what part of London he had received them.
7. Knowledge of Chemistry. - Profound.
8. Knowledge of Anatomy. - Accurate, but unsystematic.
9. Knowledge of Sensational Literature. - Immense. He appears to know every detail of every horror perpetrated in the century.
10. Plays the violin well.
11. Is a expert singlestick player, boxer, and swordsman.
12. Has a good practical knowledge of British law.
Sherlock is able to be seen as more human per say because we are shown that he is a little naive and ignorant on some subjects. It makes his brilliance as a character slightly more believable, realizing that he too has his blind spots. Upon being told by Watson that the earth travels around the sun Sherlock replies "Now that I do know it I shall do my best to forget it".
"I consider that a man's brain originally is like a little empty attic, and you have to stock it with such furniture as you choose. A fool takes in all the lumber of every sort that he comes across, so that the knowledge which might be useful to him gets crowded out, or at best is jumbled up with a lot of other things, so that he has a difficulty in laying his hands upon it. Now the skillful workman is very careful indeed as to what he takes into his brain-attic. He will have nothing but the tools which may help him in doing his work, but none these he has a large assortment, and all in the most perfect order. It is a mistake to think that that little room has elastic walls and can distend to any extent. Depend upon it there comes a time when for every addition of knowledge you forget something that you knew before. It is of the highest importance, therefore, not to have useless facts elbowing out the useful ones"
There are many layers to Sherlock Holmes. He solves cases not because of a perceived duty, but because life in general bores him. Not to mention the stroking of his ego when he reveals "The big explain". As previously mentioned he loves flattery and having his genius recognized.
I love being able to see the cases through the eyes of Holmes. I for one will be going on more of them in the very near future.
My rating : *****
Amazingly enough is the fact that the Sherlock Holmes stories were written quickly and carelessly by the author, who felt that his literary fame would rest on other, more serious works. But Sherlock Holmes is, and always will be, considered Arthur Conan Doyle's best pieces and is known worldwide.
Sherlock Holmes himself could be viewed as a very unlikable and disagreeable person. He loves the hunt, and one could say that when he is on a case is the only time that he truly comes alive. Off the case he appears to have severe bouts of boredom and depression. He cares nothing for the victims, and it seems that he cares for no one else other then himself. His lack of empathy and self absorbed personality could be considered borderline sociopath. He would not be called humble. He basks in others praise of himself, and takes delight in walking others through the case and pointing out his genius and superior mind."Elementary, my dear Watson". Despite this, I still like him. I find him intriguing and curious as a character.
Sherlock Holmes - his limits
1. Knowledge of Literature. - Nil.
2. Knowledge of Philosophy. - Nil.
3. Knowledge of Astronomy. - Nil.
4. Knowledge of Politics. - Feeble.
5. Knowledge of Botany. - Variable. Well up in belladonna, opium, and poisons generally. Knows nothing of practical gardening.
6. Knowledge of Geology. - Practical, but limited. Tells at a glance different soils from each other. After walks has shown me splashes upon his trousers, and told me by their colour and consistence in what part of London he had received them.
7. Knowledge of Chemistry. - Profound.
8. Knowledge of Anatomy. - Accurate, but unsystematic.
9. Knowledge of Sensational Literature. - Immense. He appears to know every detail of every horror perpetrated in the century.
10. Plays the violin well.
11. Is a expert singlestick player, boxer, and swordsman.
12. Has a good practical knowledge of British law.
Sherlock is able to be seen as more human per say because we are shown that he is a little naive and ignorant on some subjects. It makes his brilliance as a character slightly more believable, realizing that he too has his blind spots. Upon being told by Watson that the earth travels around the sun Sherlock replies "Now that I do know it I shall do my best to forget it".
"I consider that a man's brain originally is like a little empty attic, and you have to stock it with such furniture as you choose. A fool takes in all the lumber of every sort that he comes across, so that the knowledge which might be useful to him gets crowded out, or at best is jumbled up with a lot of other things, so that he has a difficulty in laying his hands upon it. Now the skillful workman is very careful indeed as to what he takes into his brain-attic. He will have nothing but the tools which may help him in doing his work, but none these he has a large assortment, and all in the most perfect order. It is a mistake to think that that little room has elastic walls and can distend to any extent. Depend upon it there comes a time when for every addition of knowledge you forget something that you knew before. It is of the highest importance, therefore, not to have useless facts elbowing out the useful ones"
There are many layers to Sherlock Holmes. He solves cases not because of a perceived duty, but because life in general bores him. Not to mention the stroking of his ego when he reveals "The big explain". As previously mentioned he loves flattery and having his genius recognized.
I love being able to see the cases through the eyes of Holmes. I for one will be going on more of them in the very near future.
My rating : *****
The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
I was skeptical before reading this one, as it is after all a children's book. It exceeded my expectations however. A very charming, and yet sorrowful book.
My rating : ****
My rating : ****
The Cricket on the Hearth by Charles Dickens
I hesitate to express my feelings on this one. I found the read to be tedious and dull, and yet ... the story was rather beautiful. You really have to break this one down in order to fully absorb it and appreciate it to its full extent.
We are introduced to several characters. Mr. and Mrs. Peerybingle (otherwise known as John the carrier and Dot). John being of many years senior to his young wife Dot. They appear to be happy together, and the cricket chirps and sings on the hearth as the tea kettle hums. We are also introduced to Mr. Tackleton and his soon wife to be May. As with the former couple Mr. Tackleton is also much older then is his young fiance. Mr. Tackleton is a sour and heartless toy merchant with a crude disposition. His relationship with May appears to be loveless. Then we meet Caleb and his blind daughter Bertha. Caleb works as a assistant to Mr. Tackleton. On their meager pay they live poorly, but Caleb paints a better living situation for his poor blind daughter in his attempts to spare her. He describes their home, which is no more then a run down shack, as being cozy. He describes less then desirable people in a different light. In this Bertha lives in a fantasy world created by her father, and far away from reality. We realize that Bertha is in fact in love with her fathers false descriptions of Mr. Tackleton. John begins to suspect that Dot is unhappy being married to him. And the cricket is silent. In the midst of his despair and sorrow he folds in upon himself and nearly gives in to his dark thoughts, and then the cricket sings ...
My rating : ***
We are introduced to several characters. Mr. and Mrs. Peerybingle (otherwise known as John the carrier and Dot). John being of many years senior to his young wife Dot. They appear to be happy together, and the cricket chirps and sings on the hearth as the tea kettle hums. We are also introduced to Mr. Tackleton and his soon wife to be May. As with the former couple Mr. Tackleton is also much older then is his young fiance. Mr. Tackleton is a sour and heartless toy merchant with a crude disposition. His relationship with May appears to be loveless. Then we meet Caleb and his blind daughter Bertha. Caleb works as a assistant to Mr. Tackleton. On their meager pay they live poorly, but Caleb paints a better living situation for his poor blind daughter in his attempts to spare her. He describes their home, which is no more then a run down shack, as being cozy. He describes less then desirable people in a different light. In this Bertha lives in a fantasy world created by her father, and far away from reality. We realize that Bertha is in fact in love with her fathers false descriptions of Mr. Tackleton. John begins to suspect that Dot is unhappy being married to him. And the cricket is silent. In the midst of his despair and sorrow he folds in upon himself and nearly gives in to his dark thoughts, and then the cricket sings ...
My rating : ***
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
"Bah! Humbug!"
Perhaps the most famous and most easily recognized words spat out of the very mouth of our very own Ebenezer Scoorge.
What a delightful tale. Only ever did I hear tell of "A Christmas Carol" through video, before deciding that this was the year that I simply must read it in all its glory and splendor. I was not disappointed. Far from it, I was actually pleasantly surprised at the beauty of it. The writing was breath taking, the story itself awe inspiring. Charles Dickens truly is a master of words and story telling. My only regret being of not having read it before now, and of reading it 'after' the Christmas season rather then before. I imagine the reading experience would of been just that much more magical with the impending Christmas affair upon us.
And from the mouth of Tiny Tim "God bless us, Every One!"
| My rating : | ***** |
|---|---|
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