Started: 8/23/07
Finished: 8/28/07
Year: 2002
Pages: 361
Genre: True Crime
Grade: A-
Reason for reading: grabbed it off the TBR shelf
Blurb: There was no book jacket-it's basically looking at the Jack the Ripper cases with today's forensic technology
Opinion: An interesting take on the Jack the Ripper cases. Was it really who Cornwell states it is? Who knows. We will never officially find out-hence why this makes such an interesting cases to research.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Thursday, August 23, 2007
The Book of Three by Lloyd Alexander
Started: 8/22/07
Finished: 8/23/07
Year: 1964
Pages: 224
Genre: Fantasy
Grade: B-
Reason for reading: reread to start off the rest of the series
Blurb (from back cover): "This is a tale of enchantment, of good and evil, and of the Assistant Pig-Keeper who wants to become a hero. Young Taran sets out, with a few strangely assorted companions, on a hazardous mission to save his beloved land, Prydain, from the forces of evil. He meets adventures in which, humor and gallantry are blended in a way that will keep readers of many ages completely absorbed-for this is fantasy that is rooted in reality and truth."
Opinion: I recently received the whole series as part of a bookray through Bookcrossing.com. I read this book back in 6th grade and hated it. I reread it awhile ago and didn't hate it. I had forgotten a lot of it and was glad that I read it so I can then read the rest of the series.
Finished: 8/23/07
Year: 1964
Pages: 224
Genre: Fantasy
Grade: B-
Reason for reading: reread to start off the rest of the series
Blurb (from back cover): "This is a tale of enchantment, of good and evil, and of the Assistant Pig-Keeper who wants to become a hero. Young Taran sets out, with a few strangely assorted companions, on a hazardous mission to save his beloved land, Prydain, from the forces of evil. He meets adventures in which, humor and gallantry are blended in a way that will keep readers of many ages completely absorbed-for this is fantasy that is rooted in reality and truth."
Opinion: I recently received the whole series as part of a bookray through Bookcrossing.com. I read this book back in 6th grade and hated it. I reread it awhile ago and didn't hate it. I had forgotten a lot of it and was glad that I read it so I can then read the rest of the series.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Disgrace by J. M. Coetzee
Started: 8/21/07
Finished: 8/22/07
Year: 1999
Genre: Literature
Grade: B+
Pages: 220
Reason for reading: booksfree.com book, one of the 1001 books you should read
Blurb (from back cover): "At fifty-two, Professor David Lurie is divorced, filled with desire, but lacking in passion. When an affair with a student leaves him jobless, shunned by friends, and ridiculed by his ex-wife, he retreats to his daughter Lucy's smallholding. David's visit becomes an extended stay as he attempts to find meaning in his one remaining relationship. Instead, an incident of unimaginable terror and violence forces father and daughter to confront their strained relationship-and the equally complicated racial complexities of the new South Africa."
Opinion: I was really enjoying this one until about the last chapter or so. It just seemed to end and I wanted more. I liked the style of writing.
Finished: 8/22/07
Year: 1999
Genre: Literature
Grade: B+
Pages: 220
Reason for reading: booksfree.com book, one of the 1001 books you should read
Blurb (from back cover): "At fifty-two, Professor David Lurie is divorced, filled with desire, but lacking in passion. When an affair with a student leaves him jobless, shunned by friends, and ridiculed by his ex-wife, he retreats to his daughter Lucy's smallholding. David's visit becomes an extended stay as he attempts to find meaning in his one remaining relationship. Instead, an incident of unimaginable terror and violence forces father and daughter to confront their strained relationship-and the equally complicated racial complexities of the new South Africa."
Opinion: I was really enjoying this one until about the last chapter or so. It just seemed to end and I wanted more. I liked the style of writing.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
The Good Wife: The Shocking Betrayal and Brutal Murder of a Godly Woman in Texas by Clint Richmond
Started: 8/17/07
Finished: 8/21/07
Year: 2007
Pages: 338
Genre: True crime
Grade: B
Reason for reading: review for MyShelf.com
Blurb (from back cover): "Roger and Penny Scaggs seemed a poster couple for family values. Evangelical Christians living in booming Austin, Texas, in the mid-1990's, they were respected leaders in their church and community. As Roger diligently worked his way up the high-tech corporate ladder, Penny kept a pristine home and coached similarly devout young women on how to be perfect wivies. But on a windy March evening, this godly woman met the devil head-on. And when the police discovered her lifeless body-repeatedly bludgeoned with a lead pipe, then mutilated with a knife from her own spotless kitchen-they were shocked by the rage and savagery behind her slaying.
"The Good Wife is a startling true story of greed, hatred, betrayal, and an unimaginable murder-a tale of the dark decay that can be hidden behind a facade of saintliness when a marriage seemingly made in heaven descends into hell."
Opinion: A fairly good true crime novel. However I wish there was more about Roger's reaction to the whole mess. For a more complete review, check out MyShelf.
Finished: 8/21/07
Year: 2007
Pages: 338
Genre: True crime
Grade: B
Reason for reading: review for MyShelf.com
Blurb (from back cover): "Roger and Penny Scaggs seemed a poster couple for family values. Evangelical Christians living in booming Austin, Texas, in the mid-1990's, they were respected leaders in their church and community. As Roger diligently worked his way up the high-tech corporate ladder, Penny kept a pristine home and coached similarly devout young women on how to be perfect wivies. But on a windy March evening, this godly woman met the devil head-on. And when the police discovered her lifeless body-repeatedly bludgeoned with a lead pipe, then mutilated with a knife from her own spotless kitchen-they were shocked by the rage and savagery behind her slaying.
"The Good Wife is a startling true story of greed, hatred, betrayal, and an unimaginable murder-a tale of the dark decay that can be hidden behind a facade of saintliness when a marriage seemingly made in heaven descends into hell."
Opinion: A fairly good true crime novel. However I wish there was more about Roger's reaction to the whole mess. For a more complete review, check out MyShelf.
Friday, August 17, 2007
The Island by Heather Graham
Started: 8/15/07
Finished: 8/17/07
Year: 2006
Pages: 372
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Grade: B
Reason for reading: borrowed from my dad
Blurb (from back cover): "On a weekend vacation Beth Anderson is unnerved when a stroll on the beach reveals what appears to be a skull. As a stranger approaches, Beth panics and covers the evidence. But when she later returns to the beach, the skull is gone.
"Determined to fin solid evidence to bring to the police, Beth digs deeper into the mystery of the skull-and everywhere she goes, Keith Henson, the stranger from the beach, seems to appear. He claims to be keeping an eye on her safety, but Beth senses other motives. Then a body washes ashore, and Beth begins to think she needs more help than she bargained for. Because investigating is a dangerous game, and someone wants to stop Beth from playing."
Opinion: I'm still a little surprised that my dad suggested this book but it does have a suspense in it that I can see him enjoying it. The actual culprit wasn't as predictable as I thought it was going to be which is a plus. I've read other Heather Graham books and have enjoyed them.
Finished: 8/17/07
Year: 2006
Pages: 372
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Grade: B
Reason for reading: borrowed from my dad
Blurb (from back cover): "On a weekend vacation Beth Anderson is unnerved when a stroll on the beach reveals what appears to be a skull. As a stranger approaches, Beth panics and covers the evidence. But when she later returns to the beach, the skull is gone.
"Determined to fin solid evidence to bring to the police, Beth digs deeper into the mystery of the skull-and everywhere she goes, Keith Henson, the stranger from the beach, seems to appear. He claims to be keeping an eye on her safety, but Beth senses other motives. Then a body washes ashore, and Beth begins to think she needs more help than she bargained for. Because investigating is a dangerous game, and someone wants to stop Beth from playing."
Opinion: I'm still a little surprised that my dad suggested this book but it does have a suspense in it that I can see him enjoying it. The actual culprit wasn't as predictable as I thought it was going to be which is a plus. I've read other Heather Graham books and have enjoyed them.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
One Night in Boston by Allie Boniface
Started: 8/14/07
Finished: 8/15/07
Pages: 248
Year: 2007
Genre: Romance
Grade: B
Reason for reading: won the book, reviewing for MyShelf.com
Blurb: It was an e-book so no formal blurb
Opinion: A very simple and sweet romance book with no hardcore sex. A great and quick read. For a more complete review, please check out MyShelf.
Finished: 8/15/07
Pages: 248
Year: 2007
Genre: Romance
Grade: B
Reason for reading: won the book, reviewing for MyShelf.com
Blurb: It was an e-book so no formal blurb
Opinion: A very simple and sweet romance book with no hardcore sex. A great and quick read. For a more complete review, please check out MyShelf.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Deadwood: Stories of the Black Hills by David Milch
Started: 8/14/07
Finished: 8/14/07
Year: 2006
Pages: 230
Genre: TV biography
Grade: B
Reason for reading: borrowed it from Scott, like the HBO series
Blurb (from back cover): "There is nothing on television like the award-winning HBO series Deadwood. Beautiful, profane, complex, and sublime, the show is drama at its very best. Entertaining and illuminating, Deadwood: Stories of the Black Hills offers a mesmerizing portrait of the most dangerous settlement in the West. This unprecedented look at the people, places, and history of Deadwood comes straight from the show's creator, chief writer, and executive producer, David Milch.
"Through in-depth discussions of the themes and motivations that course through the lawless camp, Milch sheds light on the characters and events in Deadwood. Fresh interviews with the Deadwood cast, scores of never-before-seen photographs, and historical images and illustrations bring the show and the place to life.
Opinion: I thought that the interviews with cast members were insightful and entertaining. There were also little tidbits from actually newspapers from that time that I thought were great. What I disliked the most was the layout of the book-stuff was just kinda placed there without giving thought to the continuity of the main chapters material.
Finished: 8/14/07
Year: 2006
Pages: 230
Genre: TV biography
Grade: B
Reason for reading: borrowed it from Scott, like the HBO series
Blurb (from back cover): "There is nothing on television like the award-winning HBO series Deadwood. Beautiful, profane, complex, and sublime, the show is drama at its very best. Entertaining and illuminating, Deadwood: Stories of the Black Hills offers a mesmerizing portrait of the most dangerous settlement in the West. This unprecedented look at the people, places, and history of Deadwood comes straight from the show's creator, chief writer, and executive producer, David Milch.
"Through in-depth discussions of the themes and motivations that course through the lawless camp, Milch sheds light on the characters and events in Deadwood. Fresh interviews with the Deadwood cast, scores of never-before-seen photographs, and historical images and illustrations bring the show and the place to life.
Opinion: I thought that the interviews with cast members were insightful and entertaining. There were also little tidbits from actually newspapers from that time that I thought were great. What I disliked the most was the layout of the book-stuff was just kinda placed there without giving thought to the continuity of the main chapters material.
Category 7 by Bill Evans and Marianna Jameson
Started: 8/9/07
Finished: 8/14/07
Year: 2007
Pages: 383
Genre: Thriller
Grade: B-
Blurb (from book jacket): "A Category 4 hurricane, with winds of up to 155 miles per hour, tears roofs off buildings, smashes windows and doors, and can send floodwaters up to the second floor. Evacuation is suggested for up to six miles inland.
"Hurricane Katrina was a Category 4 when she made landfall.
"Hurricane Simone is a Category 7-the biggest, strongest storm in recorded history. When she hits New York City, skyscrapers will fall. Subways and tunnels will flood. Lower Manhattan and much of Queens and Brooklyn will disappear under more than thirty feet of water.
"All along the Eastern Seaboard, towns and cities are being evacuated as wind-driven rain lashes the coast and storm surges crash through seawalls. Roads are packed with fleeing motorists, whose cars are jammed with every personal possession that can be crammed in, plus family members, friends, and beloved pets. A huge natural disaster is brewing in the Atlantic.
"Except that Simone isn't natural. She's the product of rogue weather science being wielded by billionaire Carter Thompson as part of a personal vendetta against US President Winslow Benson. Once, Carter wanted to bring rain to the desert and feed the starving peoples of the planet. Now he wants to show Benson-and the rest of the world-just how powerful wind and water can be.
"If technology created Simone, perhaps technology can stop her. It's up to Kate Sherman, once a member of Carter's weather team, and Jake Baxtger, a weatherman for the CIA, to try, using a secret US Navy Weapon. The catch? It has to be deployed inside the hurricane."
Opinion: Bill Evans is my local weatherman and after hearing him talk about his book, I was looking forward to reading it. For a debut novel, it's what it intended-some suspense, mystery, conclusion. The suspense could have been built up a little more in my opinion. A decent read.
Finished: 8/14/07
Year: 2007
Pages: 383
Genre: Thriller
Grade: B-
Blurb (from book jacket): "A Category 4 hurricane, with winds of up to 155 miles per hour, tears roofs off buildings, smashes windows and doors, and can send floodwaters up to the second floor. Evacuation is suggested for up to six miles inland.
"Hurricane Katrina was a Category 4 when she made landfall.
"Hurricane Simone is a Category 7-the biggest, strongest storm in recorded history. When she hits New York City, skyscrapers will fall. Subways and tunnels will flood. Lower Manhattan and much of Queens and Brooklyn will disappear under more than thirty feet of water.
"All along the Eastern Seaboard, towns and cities are being evacuated as wind-driven rain lashes the coast and storm surges crash through seawalls. Roads are packed with fleeing motorists, whose cars are jammed with every personal possession that can be crammed in, plus family members, friends, and beloved pets. A huge natural disaster is brewing in the Atlantic.
"Except that Simone isn't natural. She's the product of rogue weather science being wielded by billionaire Carter Thompson as part of a personal vendetta against US President Winslow Benson. Once, Carter wanted to bring rain to the desert and feed the starving peoples of the planet. Now he wants to show Benson-and the rest of the world-just how powerful wind and water can be.
"If technology created Simone, perhaps technology can stop her. It's up to Kate Sherman, once a member of Carter's weather team, and Jake Baxtger, a weatherman for the CIA, to try, using a secret US Navy Weapon. The catch? It has to be deployed inside the hurricane."
Opinion: Bill Evans is my local weatherman and after hearing him talk about his book, I was looking forward to reading it. For a debut novel, it's what it intended-some suspense, mystery, conclusion. The suspense could have been built up a little more in my opinion. A decent read.
The Manchurian Candidate by Richard Condon
Started: 8/7/07
Finished: 8/9/07
Year: 2003 (this edition)
Pages: 311
Genre: Thriller
Grade: C
Reason for reading: grabbed off TBR shelf
Blurb (from back cover): "A human time bomb is turned loose on an unsuspecting nation in The Manchurian Candidate, a stunning and startling novel first published in 1959. This unnerving psychological thriller is at once a spy story, a love story, a savage satire, and a fascinating tale of megalomaniacal motherhood and anticommunist hysteria.
"Sergeant Raymond Shaw, brainwashed secretly and then freed with the rest of his patrol after being captured in Korea, comes home an unwitting hero and Congressional Medal of Honor winner to be idolized by America. Only the Communists who indoctrinated him know when and how he will explode, and they alone control his actions as the fateful hour approaches.
"Murder and violence, terror in its most deceptive forms, greed without disguise, and a weird recurrent nightmare move the characters at a breathtaking pace through the capitals of the world as the novel races toward its spectacular climax. Richard Condon displays a wild vitality, a wonderful imagination, and an unerring sense of the ridiculous in this classic novel of suspense."
Opinion: Not as good as some reviewers have said it was. I've seen the movie but I'll have to watch it again.
Finished: 8/9/07
Year: 2003 (this edition)
Pages: 311
Genre: Thriller
Grade: C
Reason for reading: grabbed off TBR shelf
Blurb (from back cover): "A human time bomb is turned loose on an unsuspecting nation in The Manchurian Candidate, a stunning and startling novel first published in 1959. This unnerving psychological thriller is at once a spy story, a love story, a savage satire, and a fascinating tale of megalomaniacal motherhood and anticommunist hysteria.
"Sergeant Raymond Shaw, brainwashed secretly and then freed with the rest of his patrol after being captured in Korea, comes home an unwitting hero and Congressional Medal of Honor winner to be idolized by America. Only the Communists who indoctrinated him know when and how he will explode, and they alone control his actions as the fateful hour approaches.
"Murder and violence, terror in its most deceptive forms, greed without disguise, and a weird recurrent nightmare move the characters at a breathtaking pace through the capitals of the world as the novel races toward its spectacular climax. Richard Condon displays a wild vitality, a wonderful imagination, and an unerring sense of the ridiculous in this classic novel of suspense."
Opinion: Not as good as some reviewers have said it was. I've seen the movie but I'll have to watch it again.
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Super-Cannes by J. G. Ballard
Started: 8/4/07
Finished: 8/7/07
Year: 2000
Pages: 390
Genre: Literature
Grade: B-
Reason for reading: booksfree.com, 1001 books you should read
Blurb (from back cover): "Eden-Olympia is more than just a multinational business park, it is a virtual city-state in itself, built for the most elite high-tech industries. Isolated and secure, the residents lack nothing. Yet one day a doctor at the clinic goes on a suicidal shooting spree. Dr. Jane Sinclair is hired as his replacement, and her husband, Paul, uncovers the dangerous psychological vents that maintain Eden-Olympia's smoothly running surface."
Opinion: Not one of the best books I've heard. Certainly not one of the worst books. A lot of sexual references and tension.
Finished: 8/7/07
Year: 2000
Pages: 390
Genre: Literature
Grade: B-
Reason for reading: booksfree.com, 1001 books you should read
Blurb (from back cover): "Eden-Olympia is more than just a multinational business park, it is a virtual city-state in itself, built for the most elite high-tech industries. Isolated and secure, the residents lack nothing. Yet one day a doctor at the clinic goes on a suicidal shooting spree. Dr. Jane Sinclair is hired as his replacement, and her husband, Paul, uncovers the dangerous psychological vents that maintain Eden-Olympia's smoothly running surface."
Opinion: Not one of the best books I've heard. Certainly not one of the worst books. A lot of sexual references and tension.
Saturday, August 04, 2007
Fantasy Football: The Next Level by David Dorey
Started: 8/2/07
Finished: 8/4/07
Year: 2007
Pages: 262
Genre: Reference
Grade: B
Reason for reading: review for MyShelf.com
Blurb (from back cover): "For veteran players and newcomers alike, here is the definitive guide to playing fantasy football-and winning your league every season. Written by leading fantasy football expert David Dorey, this book takes you from draft day to the playoffs from the off-season into preseason, and reveals the most common mistakes fantasy owners make. Using David's patented LAG (League Analysis and Graphing) system as well as other tools and tips, you'll learn how to:
"Understand the true value of each position to your team's success
"Get a handle on your league's scoring system
"Use past statistics when drafting your team-and know when to throw them out the window
"Keep your focus and your discipline on draft day
"Ignore the hype surrounding last year's superstar and build your team with players who will produce this season."
Opinion: If you take fantasy football seriously and are willing to put in a little work, then this book is worth it. For a more complete review, check out MyShelf.com
Finished: 8/4/07
Year: 2007
Pages: 262
Genre: Reference
Grade: B
Reason for reading: review for MyShelf.com
Blurb (from back cover): "For veteran players and newcomers alike, here is the definitive guide to playing fantasy football-and winning your league every season. Written by leading fantasy football expert David Dorey, this book takes you from draft day to the playoffs from the off-season into preseason, and reveals the most common mistakes fantasy owners make. Using David's patented LAG (League Analysis and Graphing) system as well as other tools and tips, you'll learn how to:
"Understand the true value of each position to your team's success
"Get a handle on your league's scoring system
"Use past statistics when drafting your team-and know when to throw them out the window
"Keep your focus and your discipline on draft day
"Ignore the hype surrounding last year's superstar and build your team with players who will produce this season."
Opinion: If you take fantasy football seriously and are willing to put in a little work, then this book is worth it. For a more complete review, check out MyShelf.com
Friday, August 03, 2007
Don't Worry, Make Money by Richard Carlson
Started: 8/1/07
Finished: 8/2/07
Year: 1997
Pages: 221
Genre: Reference
Grade: B-
Reason for reading: grabbed it off the TBR shelf
Blurb (from the back cover): "Learn about the relationship between moods and money.
"Be aware of what you don't know, and what you're not good at.
"Experiment with the one-hour solution
"Spend the bulk of your time on the 'critical inch' of your business
"Avoid giving away your power
"Full of interesting and unique ideas for the overworked businessperson, Don't Worry, Make Money shows readers how to live a life that's more wealthy, productive, and carefree by refusing to let worry get you down."
Opinion: This book wasn't fully what I wanted it to be. It's more geared towards business and there's nothing wrong with that. There are some good pointers that can be applied to everyone.
Finished: 8/2/07
Year: 1997
Pages: 221
Genre: Reference
Grade: B-
Reason for reading: grabbed it off the TBR shelf
Blurb (from the back cover): "Learn about the relationship between moods and money.
"Be aware of what you don't know, and what you're not good at.
"Experiment with the one-hour solution
"Spend the bulk of your time on the 'critical inch' of your business
"Avoid giving away your power
"Full of interesting and unique ideas for the overworked businessperson, Don't Worry, Make Money shows readers how to live a life that's more wealthy, productive, and carefree by refusing to let worry get you down."
Opinion: This book wasn't fully what I wanted it to be. It's more geared towards business and there's nothing wrong with that. There are some good pointers that can be applied to everyone.
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
Gabriel's Gift by Hanif Kureishi
Started: 7/30/07
Finished: 7/31/07
Year: 2001
Pages: 221
Genre: Fiction
Grade: B
Reason for reading: booksfree.com, 1001 books to read
Blurb (from back cover): "Gabriel's father, a washed-up rock musician, has been chucked out of the house by Gabriel's mother, who works nights and sleeps days. Lonely Gabriel finds solace in a mysterious connection to his decreased twin, Archie, and in his gift for producing real objects simply by drawing them. Then a chance visit with rock star Lester Jones, his father's former band mate, provides Gabriel with a tool that might help mend his family. All he has to do is figure out how to use it."
Opinion: An enjoyable read but I don't know if it should be one of the 1001 books. Has a screenplay type of writing.
Finished: 7/31/07
Year: 2001
Pages: 221
Genre: Fiction
Grade: B
Reason for reading: booksfree.com, 1001 books to read
Blurb (from back cover): "Gabriel's father, a washed-up rock musician, has been chucked out of the house by Gabriel's mother, who works nights and sleeps days. Lonely Gabriel finds solace in a mysterious connection to his decreased twin, Archie, and in his gift for producing real objects simply by drawing them. Then a chance visit with rock star Lester Jones, his father's former band mate, provides Gabriel with a tool that might help mend his family. All he has to do is figure out how to use it."
Opinion: An enjoyable read but I don't know if it should be one of the 1001 books. Has a screenplay type of writing.
Monday, July 30, 2007
Sleep Before Evening by Magdalena Ball
Started: 7/28/07
Finished: 7/30/07
Year: 2007
Genre: Fiction
Grade: C
Reason for reading: review for MyShelf.com
Blurb: No printed blurb on e-book copy-a Long Island girl loses her grandfather and she tries to overcome it.
Opinion: A great concept but some little things didn't work (subway directions). Hard to believe that the main character would have gotten involved in what she did get involved with. For a more complete review, check out MyShelf.com
Finished: 7/30/07
Year: 2007
Genre: Fiction
Grade: C
Reason for reading: review for MyShelf.com
Blurb: No printed blurb on e-book copy-a Long Island girl loses her grandfather and she tries to overcome it.
Opinion: A great concept but some little things didn't work (subway directions). Hard to believe that the main character would have gotten involved in what she did get involved with. For a more complete review, check out MyShelf.com
Saturday, July 28, 2007
What If? Writing Exercises for Fiction Writers by Anne Bernays and Pamela Painter
Started: 7/27/07
Finished: 7/27/07
Year: 1990
Pages: 226
Genre: Writing help
Grade: B
Reason for reading: improve writing skills
Blurb (from back cover): "What If? is the first handbook for writers based on the idea that specific exercises are one of the most useful and provocative methods for mastering the art of writing fiction. With more than twenty-five years of experience teaching creative writing between them, Anne Bernays and Pamela Painter offer more than seventy-five exercises for both beginners and more experienced writers. These exercises are designed to develop and refine two basic skills: writing like a writer and, just as important, thinking like a writer. They deal with such topics as discovering where to start and end a story; learning when to use dialogue and when to use indirect discourse; transforming real events into fiction; and finding language that both sings and communicates precisely. What If? will be an essential addition to every writer's library, a welcome and much-used companion, a book that gracefully borrows a whisper from the muse."
Opinion: Some really good ideas in sparking some writing. I'm sure that I'll be using some of them in the future.
Finished: 7/27/07
Year: 1990
Pages: 226
Genre: Writing help
Grade: B
Reason for reading: improve writing skills
Blurb (from back cover): "What If? is the first handbook for writers based on the idea that specific exercises are one of the most useful and provocative methods for mastering the art of writing fiction. With more than twenty-five years of experience teaching creative writing between them, Anne Bernays and Pamela Painter offer more than seventy-five exercises for both beginners and more experienced writers. These exercises are designed to develop and refine two basic skills: writing like a writer and, just as important, thinking like a writer. They deal with such topics as discovering where to start and end a story; learning when to use dialogue and when to use indirect discourse; transforming real events into fiction; and finding language that both sings and communicates precisely. What If? will be an essential addition to every writer's library, a welcome and much-used companion, a book that gracefully borrows a whisper from the muse."
Opinion: Some really good ideas in sparking some writing. I'm sure that I'll be using some of them in the future.
Friday, July 27, 2007
The Three Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas
Started: 7/19/07
Finished: 7/27/07
Year: 1982 (this edition), 1844
Pages: 720
Genre: Classic
Grade: B-
Reason for reading: Booksfree.com book,
Blurb (from back cover): "Dumas's tale of swashbuckling and heroism follows the fortunes of d'Artagnan, a headstrong country boy who travels to Paris to join the Musketeers-the bodyguard of King Louis XIII. Here he falls in with Athos, Porthos and Aramis, and the four friends soon find themselves caught up in court politics and intrigue. Together they must outwit Cardinal Richelieu and his plot to gain influence over the King, and thwart the beautiful spy Milady's scheme to disgrace the Queen. In The Three Musketeers, Dumas breathed fresh life into the genre of historical romance, creating a vividly realized cast of characters and a stirring dramatic narrative."
Opinion: A fairly decent classic. I can see why it has survived all of these years. However, the title is very misleading.
Finished: 7/27/07
Year: 1982 (this edition), 1844
Pages: 720
Genre: Classic
Grade: B-
Reason for reading: Booksfree.com book,
Blurb (from back cover): "Dumas's tale of swashbuckling and heroism follows the fortunes of d'Artagnan, a headstrong country boy who travels to Paris to join the Musketeers-the bodyguard of King Louis XIII. Here he falls in with Athos, Porthos and Aramis, and the four friends soon find themselves caught up in court politics and intrigue. Together they must outwit Cardinal Richelieu and his plot to gain influence over the King, and thwart the beautiful spy Milady's scheme to disgrace the Queen. In The Three Musketeers, Dumas breathed fresh life into the genre of historical romance, creating a vividly realized cast of characters and a stirring dramatic narrative."
Opinion: A fairly decent classic. I can see why it has survived all of these years. However, the title is very misleading.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
The Critic by Peter May
Started: 7/16/07
Finished: 7/19/07
Year: 2007
Pages: 289
Genre: Mystery
Grade: B-
Reason for reading: review for MyShelf.com
Blurb (from back cover): "Gil Petty, the world's number one wine critic, had gone missing during a tasting tour of the little-known wine region of Gaillac. Four years aga, his body was discovered strung up on a cross in a vineyard in southwest France.
"Dressed in the ceremonial crimson robes of the Brotherhood of the Order of the Divine Bottle, the semi-decayed body had been preserved in red wine before being planted like a scarecrow among the heavily-laden vines. His murderer was never found.
"Petty's influence was powerful. A single good review meant overnight success for a winemaker; a single bad one spelled ruin.
"But possible clues in Petty's reviews are locked behind the seemingly unbreakable code he invited to keep them secure from prying eyes prior to publication. Advance information would have brought rich rewards for wine speculators. Secrecy was essential.
"Scots exile and former forensics expert Enzo Macleod reopens this well-chilled cold case to discover that the genteel world of winemakers hides a business driven by greed, envy, and desperation.
"In the idyllic vineyards, Enzo finds no shortage of possible killers, includng local winemakers, The Brotherhood of the Divine Bottle (an ancient society dedicated to promoting Gaillac wine), and Petty's daughter, Michelle.
"Enzo fortified by copious quantities of wine, hunts an elusive murderer who is quite prepared to kill again."
Opinion: A fairly strong mystery-wasn't quite sure whodunit until the end. Well written. For a more complete review, check out MyShelf.com
Finished: 7/19/07
Year: 2007
Pages: 289
Genre: Mystery
Grade: B-
Reason for reading: review for MyShelf.com
Blurb (from back cover): "Gil Petty, the world's number one wine critic, had gone missing during a tasting tour of the little-known wine region of Gaillac. Four years aga, his body was discovered strung up on a cross in a vineyard in southwest France.
"Dressed in the ceremonial crimson robes of the Brotherhood of the Order of the Divine Bottle, the semi-decayed body had been preserved in red wine before being planted like a scarecrow among the heavily-laden vines. His murderer was never found.
"Petty's influence was powerful. A single good review meant overnight success for a winemaker; a single bad one spelled ruin.
"But possible clues in Petty's reviews are locked behind the seemingly unbreakable code he invited to keep them secure from prying eyes prior to publication. Advance information would have brought rich rewards for wine speculators. Secrecy was essential.
"Scots exile and former forensics expert Enzo Macleod reopens this well-chilled cold case to discover that the genteel world of winemakers hides a business driven by greed, envy, and desperation.
"In the idyllic vineyards, Enzo finds no shortage of possible killers, includng local winemakers, The Brotherhood of the Divine Bottle (an ancient society dedicated to promoting Gaillac wine), and Petty's daughter, Michelle.
"Enzo fortified by copious quantities of wine, hunts an elusive murderer who is quite prepared to kill again."
Opinion: A fairly strong mystery-wasn't quite sure whodunit until the end. Well written. For a more complete review, check out MyShelf.com
Monday, July 16, 2007
Black Rain by Masuji Ibuse translated by John Bester
Started: 7/11/07
Finished: 7/16/07
Pages: 300
Year: 1969
Genre: Literature
Grade: B-
Reason for reading: grabbed it off the TBR shelf (got it from a bookbox)
Blurb (from back cover): "Black Rain is centered around the story of a young woman who was caught in the radioactive "black rain" that fell after the bombing of Hiroshima. Ibuse bases his tale on real-life diaries and interviews with victims of the holocaust; the result is a book that is free from sentimentality yet manages to reveal the magnitude of the human suffering caused by the atom bomb. The life Yasuko, on whom the black rain fell, is changed forever by periodic bouts of radiation sickness and the suspicion that her future children, too, may be affected.
"Ibuse tempers the horror of his subject with the gentle humor for which he is famous. His sensitivity to the complex web of emotions in a traditional community torn asunder by this historical even has made Black Rain one of the most acclaimed treatments of the Hiroshima story."
Opinion: Kinda confusing while reading it to determine which narrator was speaking. Interesting story overall.
Finished: 7/16/07
Pages: 300
Year: 1969
Genre: Literature
Grade: B-
Reason for reading: grabbed it off the TBR shelf (got it from a bookbox)
Blurb (from back cover): "Black Rain is centered around the story of a young woman who was caught in the radioactive "black rain" that fell after the bombing of Hiroshima. Ibuse bases his tale on real-life diaries and interviews with victims of the holocaust; the result is a book that is free from sentimentality yet manages to reveal the magnitude of the human suffering caused by the atom bomb. The life Yasuko, on whom the black rain fell, is changed forever by periodic bouts of radiation sickness and the suspicion that her future children, too, may be affected.
"Ibuse tempers the horror of his subject with the gentle humor for which he is famous. His sensitivity to the complex web of emotions in a traditional community torn asunder by this historical even has made Black Rain one of the most acclaimed treatments of the Hiroshima story."
Opinion: Kinda confusing while reading it to determine which narrator was speaking. Interesting story overall.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
The Red Queen by Margaret Drabble
Started: 7/5/07
Finished: 7/11/07
Year: 2004
Pages: 325
Genre: Literature
Grade: B-
Reason for reading: booksfree.com, one of the 1001 books you should read
Blurb (from back cover): "On the cusp of a trip to Korea, Barbara Halliwell receives an unexpected package with no return address. Inside she finds a centuries-old memoir by a Korean crown princess that details the mysteries of the Korean court as well as the dramas that left the princess childless and her husband dead by his own hand. In Seoul, the intriguing Dr. Oo takes Barbara through the courts themselves, an experience that leaves her as enchanted by him as by the mysterious life of the princess. She returns to England spellbound, wondering whether her life can ever return to normal-whether she truly wants it to."
Opinion: The beginning started off slowly then kinda picked up. Do I feel better now that I read this? Not really. Do I feel that it's worthy of being one of the 1001? Maybe-it was good writing.
Finished: 7/11/07
Year: 2004
Pages: 325
Genre: Literature
Grade: B-
Reason for reading: booksfree.com, one of the 1001 books you should read
Blurb (from back cover): "On the cusp of a trip to Korea, Barbara Halliwell receives an unexpected package with no return address. Inside she finds a centuries-old memoir by a Korean crown princess that details the mysteries of the Korean court as well as the dramas that left the princess childless and her husband dead by his own hand. In Seoul, the intriguing Dr. Oo takes Barbara through the courts themselves, an experience that leaves her as enchanted by him as by the mysterious life of the princess. She returns to England spellbound, wondering whether her life can ever return to normal-whether she truly wants it to."
Opinion: The beginning started off slowly then kinda picked up. Do I feel better now that I read this? Not really. Do I feel that it's worthy of being one of the 1001? Maybe-it was good writing.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
By Their Father's Hand by Monte Francis
Started: 7/1/07
Finished: 7/5/07
Year: 2007
Pages: 285
Genre: True Crime
Grade: B-
Reason for reading: review for MyShelf.com
Blurb (from back cover): "Neighbors were unaware of what went on behind the tightly closed doors of a house in Fresno, California-the home of an imposing, 300-pound Marcus Wesson, his wife, children, nieces, and grandchildren. But on March 12, 2004, gunshots were heard inside the Wesson home, and police officers responding to what they believed was a routine domestic disturbance were horrified by the senseless carnage they discovered when they entered.
"By Their Father's Hand is a chilling true story of incest, abuse, madness, and murder, and one family's terrible and ultimately fatal ordeal at the hands of a powerful, manipulative man-a cultist who envisioned vengeful gods and vampires, and totally controlled those closest to him before their world came to a brutal and bloody halt."
Opinion: Some obvious mistakes in the book but a decent story. Can tell that it's a debut novel. For a more complete review, check out MyShelf.com next month.
Finished: 7/5/07
Year: 2007
Pages: 285
Genre: True Crime
Grade: B-
Reason for reading: review for MyShelf.com
Blurb (from back cover): "Neighbors were unaware of what went on behind the tightly closed doors of a house in Fresno, California-the home of an imposing, 300-pound Marcus Wesson, his wife, children, nieces, and grandchildren. But on March 12, 2004, gunshots were heard inside the Wesson home, and police officers responding to what they believed was a routine domestic disturbance were horrified by the senseless carnage they discovered when they entered.
"By Their Father's Hand is a chilling true story of incest, abuse, madness, and murder, and one family's terrible and ultimately fatal ordeal at the hands of a powerful, manipulative man-a cultist who envisioned vengeful gods and vampires, and totally controlled those closest to him before their world came to a brutal and bloody halt."
Opinion: Some obvious mistakes in the book but a decent story. Can tell that it's a debut novel. For a more complete review, check out MyShelf.com next month.
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