Day 30: In Soviet Russia, Lent gives up you!
Just in case you were wondering, this is why Orthodox and Western Easter often fall on different dates. But not this year, so no cheap Easter candy for our Orthodox friends!
04 April 2017
03 April 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 29: A week of buildings?
So I think this week might just be pictures of churches. I may switch it up depending on the number of pictures out there that I like, but I'm admittedly not feeling this year's version of Lentorama.
Instagram isn't helping this, either, in two significant ways:
1. Their search function is not very helpful. Twitter at least let me search for #lent and a date or date range.
2. When I click on a photo to see the post, and then decide to go back into the main page, it bring me back to the top, meaning I have to scroll all over again. Thanks for nothing! I guess the ad they have saying that the mobile app is the best way to enjoy Instagram is true.
Day 29: A week of buildings?
So I think this week might just be pictures of churches. I may switch it up depending on the number of pictures out there that I like, but I'm admittedly not feeling this year's version of Lentorama.
Instagram isn't helping this, either, in two significant ways:
1. Their search function is not very helpful. Twitter at least let me search for #lent and a date or date range.
2. When I click on a photo to see the post, and then decide to go back into the main page, it bring me back to the top, meaning I have to scroll all over again. Thanks for nothing! I guess the ad they have saying that the mobile app is the best way to enjoy Instagram is true.
01 April 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 28: Which one?
Matthew? Mark? Luke? John? Paul? David? Moses? Peter? Or any number of unknown writers and editors? There are a lot of people to choose from!
Day 28: Which one?
A post shared by Alfred Street Baptist Church (@alfredstreetbc) on
Matthew? Mark? Luke? John? Paul? David? Moses? Peter? Or any number of unknown writers and editors? There are a lot of people to choose from!
31 March 2017
30 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 26: The three types of #lent posts on Instagram
It seems like there are three basic types of Instagram posts marked #lent:
1. Food photos
2. Quotes from the Bible or the pope or something which are meant to be meaningful but, devoid of any wider context, feel a little flat.
3. Posts with no obvious connection to Lent, but were posted during Lent so it gets the hashtag.
I'm trying to find the posts that don't fall into those categories, but it's hard. In the meantime, here are some happy dogs.
Day 26: The three types of #lent posts on Instagram
It seems like there are three basic types of Instagram posts marked #lent:
1. Food photos
2. Quotes from the Bible or the pope or something which are meant to be meaningful but, devoid of any wider context, feel a little flat.
3. Posts with no obvious connection to Lent, but were posted during Lent so it gets the hashtag.
I'm trying to find the posts that don't fall into those categories, but it's hard. In the meantime, here are some happy dogs.
29 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 25: Speaking of gender stereotypes
There's value in a silent retreat, and there's value in a retreat that separates truth from lies, regardless of topic. But why have the men do the "strong and silent" retreat and the women one that sounds kind of gossipy?
Day 25: Speaking of gender stereotypes
A post shared by SMU Catholic Campus Ministry (@smucatholic) on
There's value in a silent retreat, and there's value in a retreat that separates truth from lies, regardless of topic. But why have the men do the "strong and silent" retreat and the women one that sounds kind of gossipy?
28 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 24: Real men resist gender stereotypes
Real women serve their country and their flock. Real women provide for and protect their families. Real men sometimes stay home with the kids. The reality is that everyone has a role to play in promoting their community, and that role is not dictated by gender alone.
Day 24: Real men resist gender stereotypes
A post shared by JMJCat3™ (@jmjcat3) on
Real women serve their country and their flock. Real women provide for and protect their families. Real men sometimes stay home with the kids. The reality is that everyone has a role to play in promoting their community, and that role is not dictated by gender alone.
27 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 23: I'll be here all Lent, try the veal... except on Fridays.
The pun here is based on yesterday being Laetare Sunday, the traditional midpoint of Lent where a certain amount of festivity is allowed as a way to encourage the faithful to stick with their Lenten discipline for the rest of the 40 days. I always forget about it until I see the celebrants in rose-colored vestments, which I guess they find festive.
I've also never heard of Lenten resolution, but I suppose it's as good a term as any for whatever you give up during Lent.
Day 23: I'll be here all Lent, try the veal... except on Fridays.
A post shared by Catholic Sistas (@catholicsistas) on
The pun here is based on yesterday being Laetare Sunday, the traditional midpoint of Lent where a certain amount of festivity is allowed as a way to encourage the faithful to stick with their Lenten discipline for the rest of the 40 days. I always forget about it until I see the celebrants in rose-colored vestments, which I guess they find festive.
I've also never heard of Lenten resolution, but I suppose it's as good a term as any for whatever you give up during Lent.
25 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 22: Nearly the end? Did you give up math for Lent?
Posted less to mock the counting than to mention hot cross buns, which I've never quite developed a taste for, I think due to the consistency of the bun itself. I usually manage to choke one down each Lent, hoping at some point I'll find one I like.
Day 22: Nearly the end? Did you give up math for Lent?
Posted less to mock the counting than to mention hot cross buns, which I've never quite developed a taste for, I think due to the consistency of the bun itself. I usually manage to choke one down each Lent, hoping at some point I'll find one I like.
24 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 21: And I guess "All That She Wants" is about Mary getting another crack at motherhood?
I was going to dig on how bad Ace of Base is, but then I thought of how their music compares to the average contemporary Christian song, and... well, Ace of Base still sucks, even with that low bar for comparison.
(I know, I shouldn't cast aspersions on where people get their inspiration. But Ace of Base?)
Day 21: And I guess "All That She Wants" is about Mary getting another crack at motherhood?
I was going to dig on how bad Ace of Base is, but then I thought of how their music compares to the average contemporary Christian song, and... well, Ace of Base still sucks, even with that low bar for comparison.
(I know, I shouldn't cast aspersions on where people get their inspiration. But Ace of Base?)
23 March 2017
22 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 19: This is true (it's kind of how the calendar works, right?).
I posted this less for its content (which I'm assuming is a comment on how we can't get to the celebration of Easter without going through the tribulations of Good Friday), and more for its source.
Fulton Sheen was something you'd not see today - a Catholic bishop turned TV star, an Emmy winning personality who used the video pulpit to spread the Word for nearly two decades. It's surprising to me that he even got the chance to get on TV then given the greater mistrust of Catholics, but it's a sign of how popular his radio show was (and how badly the DuMont network needed to put something on air) that he got on air.
And unlike some of the current crop of TV preachers, Sheen apparently knew what he was talking about, as he earned two doctorates and was the first American to win the Cardinal Mercier Prize for International Philosophy at Leuven University.
For all that, though, I think you'd be hard pressed to find anyone under 60 (heck, maybe under 70) who really knows who he is. Fame apparently is fleeting.
Day 19: This is true (it's kind of how the calendar works, right?).
A post shared by RokaFuerte (@rokafuerte) on
I posted this less for its content (which I'm assuming is a comment on how we can't get to the celebration of Easter without going through the tribulations of Good Friday), and more for its source.
Fulton Sheen was something you'd not see today - a Catholic bishop turned TV star, an Emmy winning personality who used the video pulpit to spread the Word for nearly two decades. It's surprising to me that he even got the chance to get on TV then given the greater mistrust of Catholics, but it's a sign of how popular his radio show was (and how badly the DuMont network needed to put something on air) that he got on air.
And unlike some of the current crop of TV preachers, Sheen apparently knew what he was talking about, as he earned two doctorates and was the first American to win the Cardinal Mercier Prize for International Philosophy at Leuven University.
For all that, though, I think you'd be hard pressed to find anyone under 60 (heck, maybe under 70) who really knows who he is. Fame apparently is fleeting.
21 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 18: You can still get a cheap red hat.
A reminder of what we should be trying to do in a world where Meals on Wheels could be defunded, clean water rules are being rolled back, borders are being closed, health insurance may disappear for millions, and the private prison industry is back in favor.
Day 18: You can still get a cheap red hat.
A post shared by Huntsville Christian Church (@huntsvillechristian) on
A reminder of what we should be trying to do in a world where Meals on Wheels could be defunded, clean water rules are being rolled back, borders are being closed, health insurance may disappear for millions, and the private prison industry is back in favor.
20 March 2017
Lentorama 2017 : Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 17: Happy Spring, Northern Hemisphere!
A simple reminder of how Lent is a season of rebirth and renewal. And a season where no one's really sure how to count the number of days in Lent (though I think I'm on track).
Day 17: Happy Spring, Northern Hemisphere!
A post shared by Amy Wilson (@amygowilson) on
A simple reminder of how Lent is a season of rebirth and renewal. And a season where no one's really sure how to count the number of days in Lent (though I think I'm on track).
18 March 2017
17 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 15: Since my last confession, I have stepped on a piece and taken the Lord's name in vain about a thousand times
So the older boy had first reconciliation a few weeks ago, and will have first communion in a few weeks from now, and is a Lego fan, so this seemed fitting. As did the email from the religious ed director telling us about the Father Leopold Celebrates Mass set. I'm tempted, but fear that Father Leopold would suffer the latest minifig torture at our house: head stuck in a Lego garbage can.
Day 15: Since my last confession, I have stepped on a piece and taken the Lord's name in vain about a thousand times
So the older boy had first reconciliation a few weeks ago, and will have first communion in a few weeks from now, and is a Lego fan, so this seemed fitting. As did the email from the religious ed director telling us about the Father Leopold Celebrates Mass set. I'm tempted, but fear that Father Leopold would suffer the latest minifig torture at our house: head stuck in a Lego garbage can.
16 March 2017
15 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 13: Of course, follow the cute dog with cute kids
As cute as these kids are, I really posted this so I could use the juxtaposition of dogs and kids in clerical garb to link to the story about a Bolivian monastery that adopted a stray dog and fitted him with a small robe.
Day 13: Of course, follow the cute dog with cute kids
A post shared by Romantic Catholic (@romanticcatholic) on
As cute as these kids are, I really posted this so I could use the juxtaposition of dogs and kids in clerical garb to link to the story about a Bolivian monastery that adopted a stray dog and fitted him with a small robe.
14 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 12: Why is the dog fasting for Lent?
OK, I don't really think the dog is fasting, but this is a good time to remind you that your pets do not need to observe Lent. Or at least the canines don't as all dogs go to Heaven.
Day 12: Why is the dog fasting for Lent?
A post shared by Leila Becerra (@leibecerra) on
OK, I don't really think the dog is fasting, but this is a good time to remind you that your pets do not need to observe Lent. Or at least the canines don't as all dogs go to Heaven.
13 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 11: We interrupt Lentorama to talk about me
Yes, I posted this less to reflect on the role of music in Lent than to mention that I was in a bell choir in elementary school. Theoretically those of us in the choir scored the highest on a musical aptitude test our music teacher gave us, though it doesn't explain how I got in (I don't think I'm completely tone deaf, but I don't think I'm particularly musical, either). For whatever aptitude we were supposed to have, you really only had to be able to count to four as the teacher circled the notes we needed to play on our sheet music.
I don't remember much about the choir, other than being jealous of the kid who got to ring the large bell for... Pachibel's Canon in D Major? Finlandia? Not sure which one, but it was a showy piece for that bell, and I really liked the sound of the bell.
Day 11: We interrupt Lentorama to talk about me
Yes, I posted this less to reflect on the role of music in Lent than to mention that I was in a bell choir in elementary school. Theoretically those of us in the choir scored the highest on a musical aptitude test our music teacher gave us, though it doesn't explain how I got in (I don't think I'm completely tone deaf, but I don't think I'm particularly musical, either). For whatever aptitude we were supposed to have, you really only had to be able to count to four as the teacher circled the notes we needed to play on our sheet music.
I don't remember much about the choir, other than being jealous of the kid who got to ring the large bell for... Pachibel's Canon in D Major? Finlandia? Not sure which one, but it was a showy piece for that bell, and I really liked the sound of the bell.
11 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 10: If you grandmother asks, just say it's sand art.
I can't say I ever thought of creating mandalas as a Lenten pastime, but I can see where using them to focus one's thoughts on the season and one's place in the universe would be useful over these 40 days. Not sure if it would be for me, though, as I'd be too worried about getting sand all over the place.
Day 10: If you grandmother asks, just say it's sand art.
A post shared by Lisa Lane Filholm (@lisalanefilholm) on
I can't say I ever thought of creating mandalas as a Lenten pastime, but I can see where using them to focus one's thoughts on the season and one's place in the universe would be useful over these 40 days. Not sure if it would be for me, though, as I'd be too worried about getting sand all over the place.
10 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 9: I'm Lovin' It (because I'm worried that I'll go to Hell if I have a Big Mac)
I swear that every Friday will not be a food post (though based on what I was seeing for posts today, that might be a hard promise to keep), but wanted to post this based on something I heard this week. Turns out that McDonald's sells fully one quarter of all of its Filet o Fish sandwiches during Lent (as documented here among other places). I suppose I'm surprised that the percentage is that low. Who is going to McDonald's to get fish - on purpose! - when not trying to please some sort of higher power? Vegetarians who don't want a McSalad, I suppose.
Day 9: I'm Lovin' It (because I'm worried that I'll go to Hell if I have a Big Mac)
A post shared by RC (@mistahmoogle) on
I swear that every Friday will not be a food post (though based on what I was seeing for posts today, that might be a hard promise to keep), but wanted to post this based on something I heard this week. Turns out that McDonald's sells fully one quarter of all of its Filet o Fish sandwiches during Lent (as documented here among other places). I suppose I'm surprised that the percentage is that low. Who is going to McDonald's to get fish - on purpose! - when not trying to please some sort of higher power? Vegetarians who don't want a McSalad, I suppose.
09 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 8: This might be overkill
OK, "gone" suggests that this person didn't just give up their kids, dog, job, and boyfriend, but it's still a good reminder that there's a fine line (well, maybe not that fine) between giving something up for Lent and giving too much up for Lent.
Day 8: This might be overkill
A post shared by Holly Cardone (@hollycardone) on
OK, "gone" suggests that this person didn't just give up their kids, dog, job, and boyfriend, but it's still a good reminder that there's a fine line (well, maybe not that fine) between giving something up for Lent and giving too much up for Lent.
08 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 7: Erin Go Brisket!
I'm not against having a dispensation so you can enjoy some corned beef on St. Patrick's Day (I plan on taking full advantage of the one granted for my diocese), but I do wonder how an almighty deity managed to allow something so important as Lenten fasting to get its wires crossed with a celebration of a saint that involves a big, meaty meal. What sort of planning is that?
Day 7: Erin Go Brisket!
A post shared by ABC 7 Chicago (@abc7chicago) on
I'm not against having a dispensation so you can enjoy some corned beef on St. Patrick's Day (I plan on taking full advantage of the one granted for my diocese), but I do wonder how an almighty deity managed to allow something so important as Lenten fasting to get its wires crossed with a celebration of a saint that involves a big, meaty meal. What sort of planning is that?
07 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 6: The Lord said, "Let there be face-melting guitar solos," and it was good.
As much as I like the idea of Jimi Hendrix spreading some Lenten guidance, this quote isn't original to him. Though who first said it is up for debate, as a brief Google search suggests Gandhi, Sri Chinmoy, or William Gladstone. In any case, let's try to be nicer to each other, preferably while enjoying "All Along the Watchtower."
Day 6: The Lord said, "Let there be face-melting guitar solos," and it was good.
As much as I like the idea of Jimi Hendrix spreading some Lenten guidance, this quote isn't original to him. Though who first said it is up for debate, as a brief Google search suggests Gandhi, Sri Chinmoy, or William Gladstone. In any case, let's try to be nicer to each other, preferably while enjoying "All Along the Watchtower."
06 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 5: Mr. Pibb died for our sins
I'm not sure I agree with the "any publicity is good publicity" theory of evangelization, but I also was hoping this would show up on Instagram so I could post it as part of this series, so what do I know?
Day 5: Mr. Pibb died for our sins
A post shared by Catholic Imagery™ (@catholic_imagery) on
I'm not sure I agree with the "any publicity is good publicity" theory of evangelization, but I also was hoping this would show up on Instagram so I could post it as part of this series, so what do I know?
04 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 4: I would also have accepted "Does anyone really know what time it is?"
I'm not sure what this rumination on the finite and fleeting nature of time has to do with a blurry picture of what looks like an offshore oil rig, but I may be overthinking things. Just savor every moment, or enjoy every sandwich, I guess.
Day 4: I would also have accepted "Does anyone really know what time it is?"
I'm not sure what this rumination on the finite and fleeting nature of time has to do with a blurry picture of what looks like an offshore oil rig, but I may be overthinking things. Just savor every moment, or enjoy every sandwich, I guess.
03 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 3: At least you have a reason to post these now
Instagram is an ideal platform for posting food pictures, so it wasn't surprising that I was spoiled for choice today. And really, if you're stuck in a meatless Friday rut, there's no shortage of meal ideas for you. Hope you didn't have any sacrilegious bacon today!
Day 3: At least you have a reason to post these now
A post shared by @gmsiano on
Instagram is an ideal platform for posting food pictures, so it wasn't surprising that I was spoiled for choice today. And really, if you're stuck in a meatless Friday rut, there's no shortage of meal ideas for you. Hope you didn't have any sacrilegious bacon today!
02 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 2: Lent - more than a three hour tour!
We spent a few days in Montreal over the summer, and went to the city's basilica rather than the church with all the boats hanging from the ceiling. My boys would have found that much more interesting. Please don't tell them about it.
Day 2: Lent - more than a three hour tour!
A post shared by Elizabeth Hayes (@elizabethstravels) on
We spent a few days in Montreal over the summer, and went to the city's basilica rather than the church with all the boats hanging from the ceiling. My boys would have found that much more interesting. Please don't tell them about it.
01 March 2017
Lentorama 2017: Lenten Observers of Instagram
Day 1: In Case You Hadn't Noticed
I was not kidding when at the end of last year's Lentorama when I said this year would be based on Instagram. And to kick things off, a subtle reminder for Ash Wednesday (though at this point I don't know where you'd get ashes, at least in my neck of the woods). And while on the subject, I'll admit to a quick giggle at #Ashtag.
Day 1: In Case You Hadn't Noticed
I was not kidding when at the end of last year's Lentorama when I said this year would be based on Instagram. And to kick things off, a subtle reminder for Ash Wednesday (though at this point I don't know where you'd get ashes, at least in my neck of the woods). And while on the subject, I'll admit to a quick giggle at #Ashtag.
31 December 2016
Book Log 2016 #47: The Library at Mount Char by Scott Hawkins
The adoptive children of a figure simply called Father return to the house they grew up in, as Father (who may be God, or a god) has gone missing, and his library - from which the children learned specific disciplines and appear to hold the secrets of Creation - is unguarded. Ripe pickings for someone who would like to replace Father, either to wield untold power or keep others from doing so, like Carolyn.
The book follows her as she makes plans to enter the library and best her siblings, all while trying to balance that growing power with the fact that she is still human (which becomes less obvious the more she learns).
I liked the book, even though it's a little more in the fantasy realm than I normally go.
The adoptive children of a figure simply called Father return to the house they grew up in, as Father (who may be God, or a god) has gone missing, and his library - from which the children learned specific disciplines and appear to hold the secrets of Creation - is unguarded. Ripe pickings for someone who would like to replace Father, either to wield untold power or keep others from doing so, like Carolyn.
The book follows her as she makes plans to enter the library and best her siblings, all while trying to balance that growing power with the fact that she is still human (which becomes less obvious the more she learns).
I liked the book, even though it's a little more in the fantasy realm than I normally go.
Book Log 2016 #46: A Friend of Mr. Lincoln by Stephen Harrigan
This historical novel follows Abraham Lincoln during his years in Springfield, Illinois, where as a lawyer and state legislator he honed his political instincts and rhetorical skills in the hopes of matching his ambition. The narrator is a poet (fictional) who is part of Lincoln's circle in Springfield, and we see Lincoln in all phases, from his political and courtroom successes to his bouts of depression to his dicey love life (which includes a shared mistress with the narrator and the unorthodox courtship of Mary Todd).
I really enjoyed this book, mostly because as someone who doesn't really have a good grasp on Lincoln pre-Presidency it filled a lot of gaps as to how Lincoln got to be the man who saved the Union (I know it's fiction, but the story isn't completely made from whole cloth, and Harrigan's writing gives things a sense of fact). This probably comes from Harrigan's multiple historical novels, none of which I've managed to read (though I'm surprised I never picked up The Gates of the Alamo, something I should probably remedy).
This historical novel follows Abraham Lincoln during his years in Springfield, Illinois, where as a lawyer and state legislator he honed his political instincts and rhetorical skills in the hopes of matching his ambition. The narrator is a poet (fictional) who is part of Lincoln's circle in Springfield, and we see Lincoln in all phases, from his political and courtroom successes to his bouts of depression to his dicey love life (which includes a shared mistress with the narrator and the unorthodox courtship of Mary Todd).
I really enjoyed this book, mostly because as someone who doesn't really have a good grasp on Lincoln pre-Presidency it filled a lot of gaps as to how Lincoln got to be the man who saved the Union (I know it's fiction, but the story isn't completely made from whole cloth, and Harrigan's writing gives things a sense of fact). This probably comes from Harrigan's multiple historical novels, none of which I've managed to read (though I'm surprised I never picked up The Gates of the Alamo, something I should probably remedy).
Book Log 2016 #45: Yes, Chef by Marcus Samuelsson
It's not hard to be intrigued by Marcus Samuelsson, the Ethiopian turned Swede who at 24 became internationally renowned as the executive chef at Aquavit restaurant in New York City. This autobiography recounts how Samuelsson perservered over losing his mother in a tuberculosis epidemic, being separated from his father (who was still in their home village), and moving to Sweden (which is pretty much the exact opposite of Ethiopia), where he regularly cooked with is adoptive grandmother, setting him on the course to fame.
I have to admit I expected more struggle once Samuelsson got to Sweden, just from a racial perspective, but it seems like where the struggle really started was when he started in cooking, where he felt he needed to be the best to get the sort of notice that European chefs would get without perfection.
I do feel like the book hit its stride at the end, when Samuelsson opens Red Rooster in Harlem and reconnects with his father (and 18 step-siblings!) in Ethiopia. This really closed the circle for me, both for how obviously excited Samuelsson was to further explore his African roots and for realizing how uniquely lucky he was in being able to see family again.
It's not hard to be intrigued by Marcus Samuelsson, the Ethiopian turned Swede who at 24 became internationally renowned as the executive chef at Aquavit restaurant in New York City. This autobiography recounts how Samuelsson perservered over losing his mother in a tuberculosis epidemic, being separated from his father (who was still in their home village), and moving to Sweden (which is pretty much the exact opposite of Ethiopia), where he regularly cooked with is adoptive grandmother, setting him on the course to fame.
I have to admit I expected more struggle once Samuelsson got to Sweden, just from a racial perspective, but it seems like where the struggle really started was when he started in cooking, where he felt he needed to be the best to get the sort of notice that European chefs would get without perfection.
I do feel like the book hit its stride at the end, when Samuelsson opens Red Rooster in Harlem and reconnects with his father (and 18 step-siblings!) in Ethiopia. This really closed the circle for me, both for how obviously excited Samuelsson was to further explore his African roots and for realizing how uniquely lucky he was in being able to see family again.
30 December 2016
Book Log 2016 #44: Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris
I don't read a lot of biography or personal essays (no good reason, just tend not to crack the lineup), but had been meaning to read this for a while, and I'm glad that I finally did. Though, oddly, I've not read any of his other collections since reading this one. That might be more about me than anything else.
(Also, the blurbs about this book say the title is inspired by Sedaris's attempts to learn French, but I thought it was more in reference to the story about his speech therapy while growing up in North Carolina, though I suppose the grammar of the title sounds more like someone who is learning a language. God knows I probably said things that translated to that when I took French in junior high.)
I don't read a lot of biography or personal essays (no good reason, just tend not to crack the lineup), but had been meaning to read this for a while, and I'm glad that I finally did. Though, oddly, I've not read any of his other collections since reading this one. That might be more about me than anything else.
(Also, the blurbs about this book say the title is inspired by Sedaris's attempts to learn French, but I thought it was more in reference to the story about his speech therapy while growing up in North Carolina, though I suppose the grammar of the title sounds more like someone who is learning a language. God knows I probably said things that translated to that when I took French in junior high.)
Book Log 2016 #43: End of Watch by Stephen King
The end of the "Mercedes Killer" trilogy, in which the killer has developed the mental powers seen in the last book to get his enemies to kill themselves. It's up to Bill Hodges and his detective agency colleagues to figure out a way to stop him (while Hodges himself faces his own, potentially deadly, personal problems).
I don't read a lot of King as I still tend to think of him as a straight horror author, but between this trilogy and 11/22/63 I should probably go back and see what else I'm missing (other than The Stand, which I've been meaning to read for years).
The end of the "Mercedes Killer" trilogy, in which the killer has developed the mental powers seen in the last book to get his enemies to kill themselves. It's up to Bill Hodges and his detective agency colleagues to figure out a way to stop him (while Hodges himself faces his own, potentially deadly, personal problems).
I don't read a lot of King as I still tend to think of him as a straight horror author, but between this trilogy and 11/22/63 I should probably go back and see what else I'm missing (other than The Stand, which I've been meaning to read for years).
Book Log 2016 #42: Absolute Friends by John Le Carre
So this is not the book I was thinking of (A Legacy of Spies, which came out a year or so later and I really remember enjoying), but I do vaguely recall this as a story of two men, friends in their student days in Berlin, reconnecting in the current day to engage in one more mission, though with less clarity and/or sense of purpose as in their radical days.
I did read a couple of reviews of the book, both of which noted that the main character - a British tour guide in Berlin - was rootless and kind of undefined. I hadn't really thought about that when I read the book, as it seems to me that many of LeCarre's protagonists (especially in his post-Cold War books) would fit that description. Part of me also wonders if the character's girlfriend and her son are supposed to act as a kind of anchor, though I'm far enough removed from reading this to make an argument.
In any case, I seem to have liked it (four stars on Goodreads), but I tend to like everything from Le Carre.
So this is not the book I was thinking of (A Legacy of Spies, which came out a year or so later and I really remember enjoying), but I do vaguely recall this as a story of two men, friends in their student days in Berlin, reconnecting in the current day to engage in one more mission, though with less clarity and/or sense of purpose as in their radical days.
I did read a couple of reviews of the book, both of which noted that the main character - a British tour guide in Berlin - was rootless and kind of undefined. I hadn't really thought about that when I read the book, as it seems to me that many of LeCarre's protagonists (especially in his post-Cold War books) would fit that description. Part of me also wonders if the character's girlfriend and her son are supposed to act as a kind of anchor, though I'm far enough removed from reading this to make an argument.
In any case, I seem to have liked it (four stars on Goodreads), but I tend to like everything from Le Carre.
Book Log 2016 #41: Avenue of Spies by Alex Kershaw
I really don't remember much about this book - the story of an American doctor in France who joins the Resistance during World War 2 - I gave it three stars on Goodreads, which suggests it wasn't terrible (the average ranking is 3.94, so clearly there are a number of people who liked it more than I did). So I won't try to theorize as to why I gave it that rating, but if nothing else it's probably a good non-fiction change of pace from all of the Alan Furst books.
I really don't remember much about this book - the story of an American doctor in France who joins the Resistance during World War 2 - I gave it three stars on Goodreads, which suggests it wasn't terrible (the average ranking is 3.94, so clearly there are a number of people who liked it more than I did). So I won't try to theorize as to why I gave it that rating, but if nothing else it's probably a good non-fiction change of pace from all of the Alan Furst books.
29 December 2016
Book Log 2016 #40: Going Clear by Lawrence Wright
This is the book on which the HBO documentary of the same name is based. It gives a history of Scientology and some of its leading figures - including founder L. Ron Hubbard - and looks at how the group developed, grew, and hold on to its members (including allegations of harsh punishment for members who step out of line). It spends a fair amount of time looking at some celebrity Scientologists, and discussing how the organization uses celebrity to boost itself, and how the celebrities influence its very operations.
Scientology pushed back against this book pretty heavily, not surprising given the group's history of litigation (there's also at least one exhaustive web critique of the book that's still online). But failing anything more transparent coming through official channels, this is likely the best look inside that we have, and is very much worth reading.
This is the book on which the HBO documentary of the same name is based. It gives a history of Scientology and some of its leading figures - including founder L. Ron Hubbard - and looks at how the group developed, grew, and hold on to its members (including allegations of harsh punishment for members who step out of line). It spends a fair amount of time looking at some celebrity Scientologists, and discussing how the organization uses celebrity to boost itself, and how the celebrities influence its very operations.
Scientology pushed back against this book pretty heavily, not surprising given the group's history of litigation (there's also at least one exhaustive web critique of the book that's still online). But failing anything more transparent coming through official channels, this is likely the best look inside that we have, and is very much worth reading.
Book Log 2016 #39: The Bad-Ass Librarians of Timbuktu by Joshua Hammer
Mali doesn't get a much attention in the US with regards to the war on terror, but in the early part of the 2010s the country was more or less taken over by al-Qaeda, who co-opted a rebellion by the Touareg people to take control over most of the country.
One of the things this put in jeopardy is the country's large collection of historic manuscripts (both Islamic and secular), which had been collected over decades and stored in the city of Timbuktu. Fearing their destruction, a librarian (who was involved in collecting the manuscripts in the first place) arranged a smuggling operation aimed at getting the collection - numbering some 350,000 volumes - to relative safety in the southern part of the country, which was not under al-Qaeda control.
It's a gripping story, both for the actual movement of the collection and the recounting of life under a repressive theocratic insurgency. It's very much worth a read, both to learn about a part of the world that gets very little coverage (especially in the US) and to get even more confirmation that librarians are not to be trifled with.
Mali doesn't get a much attention in the US with regards to the war on terror, but in the early part of the 2010s the country was more or less taken over by al-Qaeda, who co-opted a rebellion by the Touareg people to take control over most of the country.
One of the things this put in jeopardy is the country's large collection of historic manuscripts (both Islamic and secular), which had been collected over decades and stored in the city of Timbuktu. Fearing their destruction, a librarian (who was involved in collecting the manuscripts in the first place) arranged a smuggling operation aimed at getting the collection - numbering some 350,000 volumes - to relative safety in the southern part of the country, which was not under al-Qaeda control.
It's a gripping story, both for the actual movement of the collection and the recounting of life under a repressive theocratic insurgency. It's very much worth a read, both to learn about a part of the world that gets very little coverage (especially in the US) and to get even more confirmation that librarians are not to be trifled with.
Book Log 2016 #38: Eating for Ireland by Tom Doorley
I suppose I'd call this book a "food memoir," as it looks at specific foods and food-related topics from the author's experience growing up and living in Ireland. I think the main issue for me is that I'm not Irish, so I don't have the references or experiences that would have allowed me to enjoy the book as deeply as someone who is Irish. That being said, I did like the writing style and stuck with it, and did find that I was able to use what experience I have with Ireland (and with being married into a British family, as there's a fair amount of similarity in food) to get a fair amount of enjoyment out of the book.
The structure - one chapter per item - does allow for easy browsing, which is helpful if you're not familiar with things like rissoles, drisheen, or schpring schprong (which I am not; just typing these I have no idea what they are, and I'm pretty sure I read about them!).
I suppose I'd call this book a "food memoir," as it looks at specific foods and food-related topics from the author's experience growing up and living in Ireland. I think the main issue for me is that I'm not Irish, so I don't have the references or experiences that would have allowed me to enjoy the book as deeply as someone who is Irish. That being said, I did like the writing style and stuck with it, and did find that I was able to use what experience I have with Ireland (and with being married into a British family, as there's a fair amount of similarity in food) to get a fair amount of enjoyment out of the book.
The structure - one chapter per item - does allow for easy browsing, which is helpful if you're not familiar with things like rissoles, drisheen, or schpring schprong (which I am not; just typing these I have no idea what they are, and I'm pretty sure I read about them!).
28 December 2016
Book Log 2016 #37: The Only Rule is it Has to Work by Ben Lindbergh and Sam Miller
While sabremetrics and other analytics continue to find a place in baseball, this book takes the quantitative approach to its logical conclusion, as the two authors are given free reign to use data to run the Sonoma Stompers, an independent professional baseball team. We see the pair evaluate talent (including some clearly non-quantitative shenanigans at a tryout aimed at landing a slugger that most teams seem to be overlooking), make day to day decisions, and deal with some unexpected drama (one of their players became the first American professional baseball player to come out as gay while still active).
For all of the numbers talk, the book is pretty much a year in the life of the team, and you easily get caught up in the regular drama as well as the conflicts that happen due to the specific way the team is being run. The book won't settle the argument for either side, but it is an enjoyable look at a low-stakes application of stats in baseball.
While sabremetrics and other analytics continue to find a place in baseball, this book takes the quantitative approach to its logical conclusion, as the two authors are given free reign to use data to run the Sonoma Stompers, an independent professional baseball team. We see the pair evaluate talent (including some clearly non-quantitative shenanigans at a tryout aimed at landing a slugger that most teams seem to be overlooking), make day to day decisions, and deal with some unexpected drama (one of their players became the first American professional baseball player to come out as gay while still active).
For all of the numbers talk, the book is pretty much a year in the life of the team, and you easily get caught up in the regular drama as well as the conflicts that happen due to the specific way the team is being run. The book won't settle the argument for either side, but it is an enjoyable look at a low-stakes application of stats in baseball.
Book Log 2016 #36: The 14th Colony by Steve Berry
Looking at the description this would seem to check all the boxes for a Cotton Malone thriller, but I was somewhat disappointed in this book relative to the series. Not sure if it was the way the Order of the Cincinnati was used or just not a fan of the ending, I have vague memories of misgivings surrounding both. I do kind of wish Malone would go back to Europe and shoot up some more UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Book Log 2016 #35: Kingdom of Shadows by Alan Furst
I don't remember much about this book, and the author and publisher pages for the book both give the same, brief, mostly content-free description (guy tries to stop Nazis in Eastern Europe). But I seem to have liked it (four stars on Goodreads), and from the various reviews I've read it seems like it was generally well liked. I'm guessing if you like Furst's other novels you'll like this one.
I don't remember much about this book, and the author and publisher pages for the book both give the same, brief, mostly content-free description (guy tries to stop Nazis in Eastern Europe). But I seem to have liked it (four stars on Goodreads), and from the various reviews I've read it seems like it was generally well liked. I'm guessing if you like Furst's other novels you'll like this one.
26 December 2016
Book Log 2016 #34: House of Thieves by Charles Belfoure
Set in the late 19th century, the son of a prosperous architect gets mixed up with the wrong crowd, and to save him the architect uses his knowledge of architecture (and the mansions he'd designed) to help the gang commit robberies.
I couldn't quite get into this book the same way I did for Belfoure's debut novel, The Paris Architect, not sure if I didn't quite buy the premise or if the writing wasn't as good as that first book. Still, it's a nice change of pace to have a mystery/thriller using architects rather than the usual assortment of cops and government agents.
Set in the late 19th century, the son of a prosperous architect gets mixed up with the wrong crowd, and to save him the architect uses his knowledge of architecture (and the mansions he'd designed) to help the gang commit robberies.
I couldn't quite get into this book the same way I did for Belfoure's debut novel, The Paris Architect, not sure if I didn't quite buy the premise or if the writing wasn't as good as that first book. Still, it's a nice change of pace to have a mystery/thriller using architects rather than the usual assortment of cops and government agents.
Book Log 2016 #33: The Only Street in Paris: Life on the Rue des Martyrs by Elaine Sciolino
Paris seems more than most cities to be defined by its neighborhoods, and this book does an excellent job of showing how that works and the ways in which Parisians work and struggle to keep their neighborhoods alive and vibrant. Scioloino is a former New York Times bureau chief for Paris, and the book does an excellent job showing her love (and understanding) of this corner of the city
(NOTE: a couple years after reading this I actually visited Paris, and managed not to visit this street even though our hotel was literally two streets over. I am an idiot).
(NOTE: a couple years after reading this I actually visited Paris, and managed not to visit this street even though our hotel was literally two streets over. I am an idiot).
Book Log 2016 #32: The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
I don't know how I never read this to now, but I apparently waited too long. I was nowhere nearly as amused by the book as friends of mine who read it in their younger years, and found the ending really abrupt. My teen self may have gotten this more than my current self; he certainly would have been more likely to read on in the series, something I'm going to skip.
I don't know how I never read this to now, but I apparently waited too long. I was nowhere nearly as amused by the book as friends of mine who read it in their younger years, and found the ending really abrupt. My teen self may have gotten this more than my current self; he certainly would have been more likely to read on in the series, something I'm going to skip.
25 December 2016
Book Log 2016 #31: Mortal Causes by Ian Rankin
OK, so after feeling like the previous book in the series really started to put things together for me, I can remember almost nothing about this book. The synopsis mentions how the murder in this book is linked to sectarian groups, organized crime, and a potential terrorist act, but I have a hard time remembering specifics. Still, I'm guessing if you liked the previous books you'll like this one too. It would also help if I didn't wait so long between reading a book and writing about it.
OK, so after feeling like the previous book in the series really started to put things together for me, I can remember almost nothing about this book. The synopsis mentions how the murder in this book is linked to sectarian groups, organized crime, and a potential terrorist act, but I have a hard time remembering specifics. Still, I'm guessing if you liked the previous books you'll like this one too. It would also help if I didn't wait so long between reading a book and writing about it.
Book Log 2016 #30: The Black Book by Ian Rankin
A hotel fire five years in the past, the beating of one of John Rebus' colleagues, and a mysterious black notebook are all central to solving a recent murder. I felt like the series started to come together with this book, though it could be that I was familiar enough with the series at this point that I could start to connect the longer story arcs while still enjoying the book-specific plot. Anyway, beginning to really like the series.
A hotel fire five years in the past, the beating of one of John Rebus' colleagues, and a mysterious black notebook are all central to solving a recent murder. I felt like the series started to come together with this book, though it could be that I was familiar enough with the series at this point that I could start to connect the longer story arcs while still enjoying the book-specific plot. Anyway, beginning to really like the series.
Book Log 2016 #29: Deep South by Paul Theroux
Theroux turns his wanderlust inwards, trading international train travel for long drives into Dixie, where he turns his usual inquisitiveness on his fellow Americans. Theroux displays his usual ability to connect with locals and pull their stories out of them, helping to give definition to living in the modern US south. The decision to revisit locations and people during the four seasons of the book provided added depth as well.
On the down side, I did find the book lapsing too close to stereotype at times, and the variety of asides only served to slow down a narrative that was already taking its time. Still, I would much rather have new travel writing from Paul Theroux than none at all.
Theroux turns his wanderlust inwards, trading international train travel for long drives into Dixie, where he turns his usual inquisitiveness on his fellow Americans. Theroux displays his usual ability to connect with locals and pull their stories out of them, helping to give definition to living in the modern US south. The decision to revisit locations and people during the four seasons of the book provided added depth as well.
On the down side, I did find the book lapsing too close to stereotype at times, and the variety of asides only served to slow down a narrative that was already taking its time. Still, I would much rather have new travel writing from Paul Theroux than none at all.
Book Log 2016 #28: Ghostwritten by David Mitchell
I don't recall a great deal about this book, but I do remember liking it. It's a bit like Cloud Atlas in its examination of the interconnectedness of humanity, but told in more of a linear style (not completely linear, but moreso than Cloud Atlas). Definitely worth a read.
I don't recall a great deal about this book, but I do remember liking it. It's a bit like Cloud Atlas in its examination of the interconnectedness of humanity, but told in more of a linear style (not completely linear, but moreso than Cloud Atlas). Definitely worth a read.
24 December 2016
Book Log 2016 #27: The Hanging Girl by Jussi Adler-Olsen
A police officer's suicide goads Carl Morck and Department Q to take on a cold case involving a teenage girl found hanging in a tree, a location initially ascribed to being hit by a truck. The dead officer left behind a mountain of information accumulated during his own investigation, creating its own obstacle for Morck and company. As they get deeper into the case, it appears that an alternative religious community (or more accurately, its charismatic leader) may be to blame.
I still don't think this series has gotten back to the quality of its early books, but I do think this is better than, say, The Marco Effect. What I don't know is if this is an issue with the translation, a lack of new ideas for cases, or difficulties in trying to balance the cases with the other subplots (Assad's mysterious past, Rose's mental health, and the building site ambush that left Carl's colleague turned housemate paralyzed). Still worth working through, I think, but it may be time to either wrap up some of these stories or take a book or two to make them the main story so there's some progress.
A police officer's suicide goads Carl Morck and Department Q to take on a cold case involving a teenage girl found hanging in a tree, a location initially ascribed to being hit by a truck. The dead officer left behind a mountain of information accumulated during his own investigation, creating its own obstacle for Morck and company. As they get deeper into the case, it appears that an alternative religious community (or more accurately, its charismatic leader) may be to blame.
I still don't think this series has gotten back to the quality of its early books, but I do think this is better than, say, The Marco Effect. What I don't know is if this is an issue with the translation, a lack of new ideas for cases, or difficulties in trying to balance the cases with the other subplots (Assad's mysterious past, Rose's mental health, and the building site ambush that left Carl's colleague turned housemate paralyzed). Still worth working through, I think, but it may be time to either wrap up some of these stories or take a book or two to make them the main story so there's some progress.
Book Log 2016 #26: In the Beginning... Was the Command Line by Neal Stephenson
This article/blogpost/short book about looks at computer operating systems, comparing proprietary software (like Windows) to free software (like UNIX and its progeny) and positing that the for-pay systems would eventually fall by the wayside.
That didn't happen, and in some ways reality unfolded in an almost exact opposite way, with Windows continuing to be ubiquitous and Mac OS X combining GUI with a UNIX-based backing (Stephenson himself became an OS X user, and admits that most of this article is now obsolete).
All of that being said, it's an interesting piece of writing and worth reading to get a taste of computing at the time.
This article/blogpost/short book about looks at computer operating systems, comparing proprietary software (like Windows) to free software (like UNIX and its progeny) and positing that the for-pay systems would eventually fall by the wayside.
That didn't happen, and in some ways reality unfolded in an almost exact opposite way, with Windows continuing to be ubiquitous and Mac OS X combining GUI with a UNIX-based backing (Stephenson himself became an OS X user, and admits that most of this article is now obsolete).
All of that being said, it's an interesting piece of writing and worth reading to get a taste of computing at the time.
Book Log 2016 #25: Unlocked by John Scalzi
In his novel Lock In (which I've read but apparently forgot to log; it's really good, go read it), we're introduced to a world which has become accustomed to the effects of Haden's Syndrome, a virally-created condition where people become entrapped in their bodies, cognitively unimpaired but stuck in a body that no longer moves. Technology has bridged the gap, allowing those afflicted to be part of the world again through a robot-like device popularly called a threep. It's an interesting book about what makes us human, and what it means to be part of society and personal communities.
Unlocked is an oral history of Haden's, providing several first-person accounts as to how the disease started, progressed, and was discovered to leave its victims mentally whole but unable to let anyone know it. It's a brisk read - novella length and well-written to tell the story of the disease and the people touched by it - and an excellent companion piece to the novel.
In his novel Lock In (which I've read but apparently forgot to log; it's really good, go read it), we're introduced to a world which has become accustomed to the effects of Haden's Syndrome, a virally-created condition where people become entrapped in their bodies, cognitively unimpaired but stuck in a body that no longer moves. Technology has bridged the gap, allowing those afflicted to be part of the world again through a robot-like device popularly called a threep. It's an interesting book about what makes us human, and what it means to be part of society and personal communities.
Unlocked is an oral history of Haden's, providing several first-person accounts as to how the disease started, progressed, and was discovered to leave its victims mentally whole but unable to let anyone know it. It's a brisk read - novella length and well-written to tell the story of the disease and the people touched by it - and an excellent companion piece to the novel.
23 December 2016
Book Log 2016 #24: Island in the Sea of Time by S.M. Stirling
I've been reading Stirling's Emberverse series for some time now (I'm also apparently a couple of books behind), but hadn't started its precursor series, where the same event that changed the laws of physics here caused Nantucket to be sent back in time to the Bronze Age. This is the first book in that series, where the hearty New Englanders, aided by the crew of a Coast Guard ship that was close enough to the island to get sent back as well, do their best to maintain the American way of life a good 3000 years before America even existed.
I generally liked the book, but did have two issues with it:
1. I didn't find the plot line where a group of idealistic believers in "noble savages" takes off to live like the natives to be all that believable. That the group had a healthy contingent of people who saw this as a shortcut to becoming a king was more believable. What finally happens to this group is very believable.
2. The book was too damn long, a complaint I've had with several of the Emberverse novels. This has actually kept me from moving on to the second book. I assume I will at some point.
I've been reading Stirling's Emberverse series for some time now (I'm also apparently a couple of books behind), but hadn't started its precursor series, where the same event that changed the laws of physics here caused Nantucket to be sent back in time to the Bronze Age. This is the first book in that series, where the hearty New Englanders, aided by the crew of a Coast Guard ship that was close enough to the island to get sent back as well, do their best to maintain the American way of life a good 3000 years before America even existed.
I generally liked the book, but did have two issues with it:
1. I didn't find the plot line where a group of idealistic believers in "noble savages" takes off to live like the natives to be all that believable. That the group had a healthy contingent of people who saw this as a shortcut to becoming a king was more believable. What finally happens to this group is very believable.
2. The book was too damn long, a complaint I've had with several of the Emberverse novels. This has actually kept me from moving on to the second book. I assume I will at some point.
Book Log 2016 #23: Pacific by Simon Winchester
I liked this book more than I did Atlantic, probably because I had less of an issue with how he organized the book (and I was likely nitpickier about Atlantic as I live on the Atlantic coast). I do recall having some doubt about his discussion over China, but not what I had issues with, so it couldn't have been that bad.
I liked this book more than I did Atlantic, probably because I had less of an issue with how he organized the book (and I was likely nitpickier about Atlantic as I live on the Atlantic coast). I do recall having some doubt about his discussion over China, but not what I had issues with, so it couldn't have been that bad.
Book Log 2016 #22: The Polish Officer by Alan Furst
Honestly, I don't remember reading this. The synopsis sounds vaguely familiar, but I can't come up with any details. It's been a while since I've read it, but I can at least usually remember some random bits and have a general sense of how much I liked the book. For this one, though, nothing. It was probably fine, or at least not bad enough that I remember.
Honestly, I don't remember reading this. The synopsis sounds vaguely familiar, but I can't come up with any details. It's been a while since I've read it, but I can at least usually remember some random bits and have a general sense of how much I liked the book. For this one, though, nothing. It was probably fine, or at least not bad enough that I remember.
22 December 2016
Book Log 2016 #21: Strip Jack by Ian Rankin
A popular local politician is picked up in a raid on a brothel that goes awry. Soon after that, the politician's wife disappears. John Rebus senses a set-up, and when bodies start to appear and more questions are raised, the question becomes who wants to hand the politician out to dry, and why are they going to these sorts of lengths to do so?
This is the fourth book in the series, and you can start to feel the groove it's beginning to fit into (in a good way).
A popular local politician is picked up in a raid on a brothel that goes awry. Soon after that, the politician's wife disappears. John Rebus senses a set-up, and when bodies start to appear and more questions are raised, the question becomes who wants to hand the politician out to dry, and why are they going to these sorts of lengths to do so?
This is the fourth book in the series, and you can start to feel the groove it's beginning to fit into (in a good way).
Book Log 2016 #20: Up, Up and Away by Jonah Keri
So we went to Montreal for a few days this past summer, and I spent some time trying to decide on what regionally-appropriate literature to pair with the trip. I was all set to pick up some Mordecai Richler, and then the hold I put out on this book came up. Goodbye Barney's Version, hello Montreal Expos!
This history of this star-crossed and doomed franchise is told in great and entertaining detail, as befits a book written by a fan. Keri's personal investment with the team is clear, as the story of the team is interspersed throughout with personal memories and observations, which adds depth and texture to an already engrossing narrative. Perhaps the biggest surprise was that after reading this, I actually felt slightly sympathetic for Jeffrey Loria, the owner who sold the team to Major League Baseball and more or less sealed its relocation fate (note: only slightly sympathetic, I still think on the whole baseball would have been better off if Loria never became an owner).
An excellent book for baseball fans, especially those who remember the Expos as a going concern.
So we went to Montreal for a few days this past summer, and I spent some time trying to decide on what regionally-appropriate literature to pair with the trip. I was all set to pick up some Mordecai Richler, and then the hold I put out on this book came up. Goodbye Barney's Version, hello Montreal Expos!
This history of this star-crossed and doomed franchise is told in great and entertaining detail, as befits a book written by a fan. Keri's personal investment with the team is clear, as the story of the team is interspersed throughout with personal memories and observations, which adds depth and texture to an already engrossing narrative. Perhaps the biggest surprise was that after reading this, I actually felt slightly sympathetic for Jeffrey Loria, the owner who sold the team to Major League Baseball and more or less sealed its relocation fate (note: only slightly sympathetic, I still think on the whole baseball would have been better off if Loria never became an owner).
An excellent book for baseball fans, especially those who remember the Expos as a going concern.
Book Log 2016 #19: The Memory Key by Conor Fitzgerald
A professor whose memory tricks may hold the link between a cold case involving a fascist terrorist and the recent death of a university student - if only Italian police commissario Alec Blume was assigned to the case. Instead, he has to shadow the investigations while also trying to hold together his relationship with a fellow officer, which has gone south since they moved in together.
I still like this series, but I do feel like the more recent entries haven't been as interesting as the first two. Don't know if it's the cases or if the romantic interest part of it has moved too quickly for my taste. Still good, though.
A professor whose memory tricks may hold the link between a cold case involving a fascist terrorist and the recent death of a university student - if only Italian police commissario Alec Blume was assigned to the case. Instead, he has to shadow the investigations while also trying to hold together his relationship with a fellow officer, which has gone south since they moved in together.
I still like this series, but I do feel like the more recent entries haven't been as interesting as the first two. Don't know if it's the cases or if the romantic interest part of it has moved too quickly for my taste. Still good, though.
21 December 2016
Book Log 2016 #18: Mission to Paris by Alan Furst
An American actor arrives in Paris to make a movie, and the Nazis, seeing a potential propaganda coup, pressure him to give favorable impressions about the regime to the local media. As that pressure becomes more palpabale, the actor (who is no fan of the Nazis) is drafted into an amateur spy role for the US. Throw in the required attractive woman and you have another well-crafted thriller.
It's interesting to compare Furst's novels with the Turtledove books I've been down on. There is a definite pattern to Furst's novels - an amateur pressed into spy work to fight the Nazis, trying to delay the inevitable and save the girl against the backdrop of Europe on the brink of war - but unlike Turtledove there's enough variety in setting and story to make the pattern more of a framework and less of a device to add pages. It does help that Furst's series isn't tied to a particular set of characters, allowing him to explore different aspects of prewar Europe rather than try to find new ways to make old characters interesting.
In any case, if you like the other novels in the series, you'll like this one too.
An American actor arrives in Paris to make a movie, and the Nazis, seeing a potential propaganda coup, pressure him to give favorable impressions about the regime to the local media. As that pressure becomes more palpabale, the actor (who is no fan of the Nazis) is drafted into an amateur spy role for the US. Throw in the required attractive woman and you have another well-crafted thriller.
It's interesting to compare Furst's novels with the Turtledove books I've been down on. There is a definite pattern to Furst's novels - an amateur pressed into spy work to fight the Nazis, trying to delay the inevitable and save the girl against the backdrop of Europe on the brink of war - but unlike Turtledove there's enough variety in setting and story to make the pattern more of a framework and less of a device to add pages. It does help that Furst's series isn't tied to a particular set of characters, allowing him to explore different aspects of prewar Europe rather than try to find new ways to make old characters interesting.
In any case, if you like the other novels in the series, you'll like this one too.
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