books I Should Read.
I loved The Bluest Eye. Ditto Song of Solomon and Jazz. But I can’t bring myself to even open Toni Morrison’s best-known work, because I can’t get past the premise: desperate slave kills her own children. (I can’t watch stagings of Medea, either.)
My son loves this book, and assures me that Susanna Clarke is a genius who owes a debt
to Jane Austen. But clocking in at more than 700 pages (and including nearly 200 footnotes), Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norell is a daunting read. Part fantasy and part alternate history, this is one of those books I know I’d probably love–if only I could start it.
I’ll think I’ll just wait for the movie. . .
Any one of the books between Two and Seven could just as well be pictured here.
I did read The Sorcerer’s Stone, but truth be told, I just didn’t love it the way everyone else in my house did. My guys all keep telling me the series gets better and better, but I’m not particularly interested in learning fake Latin spells or in trying to keep track of hundreds of characters, human or otherwise. (As a teacher however, I do have a soft spot for Hogwarts, the school that becomes Harry’s home and refuge.)
Now how about you? What’s in your ISR pile?
The Hitchhiker’s Guide to The Galaxy. My middle child alludes to it often, and I’m sure I’d be amused, if I got around to reading it for myself.
Yes, that’s one I always thought I should know! In fact, there’s a whole lot of sci fi I just haven’t cracked open.
Rosemary, I’ve read all seven Rowling’s books and they are worth the effort.
About Toni Morrison … you should at least read the novella The Bluest Eye … it is by far my fav of hers and although it is sad … the story of Pecola will remain with you like the haunting strains of a celo or the mornful cries of the harmonica. She weaves her story with the dreams of all little girls who become invisible … black or white. Beloved was sort of weird … but my book club is reviewing her newest book next season.
I will add Susan Clarke to be IRS (TRB) whatever list. See you tomorrow
*GASP* you did not love Harry Potter? Truly? But… but… I think you should try book 2. No, wait. After your draft is done, try book 2.
I could not get past the first 100 pages of Jonathan Strange, etc. That book has won countless awards. But none from me.
I couldn’t get past the first 2 pages of Hunger Games, either. Grim setting, grim opening… grim grim grim. Bleh.
Hah! Hunger Games has been on my Kindle for more than a year, but the idea of teens dueling to the death is too off-putting. (And too close to my day job.) I promise I’ll give Harry another try!