Stuff I've Read Lately

I've decided that I'm no good at this blogging thing. I find myself getting too uptight about it all, treating each post as though I am going to be graded on it. So, I've decided to relax and just let my words and thoughts flow like syrup (we had pancakes for dinner tonight, can you tell?).

I've been able to read some seriously fun books lately and wanted to get the word out. Here are some of my favorites: The Help, by Kathryn Stockett. I can't say enough about this book, just go pick it up because you won't be disappointed! It was one of the top 10 books of the year (or something like that), so I ordered it off Amazon and then waited like a kid waits for Christmas. The story takes place in the early 60's and follows two hilarious and sassy black maids, who just so happen to be BFF's, as they struggle to work for white folks who are just "messed up." This book boasts a ton of crazy and lovable characters and some that you would like to punch in the face. All in all, I would have to say it's one of my top picks of the year. I haven't run into one (NOT ONE!!!) person who's read it that didn't just love it!

The Man Who Loved Books Too Much is a novel that I picked up at the library just because of the title. I thought,"hey, I love books too much, maybe I might have something in common with this man." This was not the case, however. The author, freelance writer Allison Hoover Bartlett, follows the story of John Gilckey, who's passion for books led him to steal thousands of titles from rare book dealers over several years. The thing is, he didn't steal for money, but for the thrill of owning the book itself. He has some serious problems!!! I found the world of rare books fascinating, but the "man" who stole the books left me a tiny bit creeped out. It also made me wish I had a cool ten grand just laying around so I could go dabble in some rare book-buying myself. Sigh!

I also partied with the classics, reading Jane Eyre, and loved every minute of it! And I finally got my hands on Jon Krakauers' latest, Where Men Win Glory. As Randy Jackson (of American Idol fame) so eloquently states,"Dogs, it was just o.k for me." Pat Tillman, who seemed like a fantastic fellow, just didn't excite me all that much. On the other hand, learning about the hows and whys of the Iraq/Afghanistan conflict was really interesting. So, out of ten stars I'd give it a seven.

Anyways, right now I don't have anything to read. It's really depressing me. What's good out there, people?! If you are really my friend and really love me you would give me a good read. So, what I'm saying is...I've scratched your back and now it's your turn to scratch mine! Happy reading!