How do you find books to read in the age of the Internet? At one time we found books that were recommended by others or from reviews. But now is a bit more difficult. The other day I mentioned The Island of Dr. Moreau, which I had discovered some 40 years ago.
Last winter I found the NPR list of recommended books, which resulted in several Christmas presents, mostly for Susan. But now I am just as likely to find a book that a TV series is based on. For instance The 100, a Netflix series (with 100 episodes across seven seasons) which was “based” on the books by Kass Morgan. Yes, “based” is an interesting concept here. The name was used, as well as perhaps 6-8 characters, and a couple of incidents from the book. Otherwise, nothing from the books was like the Netflix series. Frankly, the TV show was better than the books.
His dark materials, on HBO, was a better rendition of the three book series. Both were rather enjoyable. Now I am faced with a dilemma, the third season of the TV series has not appeared, and I am at the point in the books where it has left off. Do I finish the books, or do I wait for season-three? More on that later.
I have for years enjoyed reading (and writing) poetry. I listened to an interview of Layli Long Soldier on the radio and enjoyed her reading so I purchased the volume that her readings were based on. I quite enjoyed this slim book of poetry.
The Derek Walcott volume, which I purchased early this century is neither slim, nor a quick read. In fact, Omeros is perhaps the most dense piece of poetry that I have ever read. By dense, I mean that every word and phrase has specific meaning with each word chosen carefully. The 324 page poem is delightfully crafted and highly recommended.
The Geometry of Pasta, a birthday present this year from by dear friends Steve and Chellie is both a delight to read as well as a cookbook. I got me to thinking about how many different pastas had I actually made, and got me to making at least one new one.
And finally, Good Omens, a book recommended and borrowed from Deb and Mike in Petosky, It is quirky and humorous, quite like my typical reading, when it’s not science fiction.
That’s all for reading. Shortly, it’s back to food.
Michael's Place 