Category: Books

I wanted to read something historical this time round. So I perused the history section (I think that’s what it’s called) at the library. While a Stalin book did catch my eye, I went with Killing Lincoln since I noticed it’s been selling pretty well at the local bookstore.

While I know the basics behind Lincoln’s assassination (as I’d hope everyone else does as well), I did get a much better look inside those involved. I really did enjoy the writing style for a non-fiction book, while detailing a historical event, the authors did make it feel like an exciting novel at times.

I really went through this one pretty quickly, which is always a fine sign. The pacing was excellent and the diagrams and maps were a big plus as well. It was really interesting to not only learn more about the “bad guys”, but also about the poor security as well.

I really enjoy this one, it was a good book.

At the library I was determined to pick up a work of non-fiction this time. So I started off in the new arrivals section. In a pretty much eenie meenie miney moe manner I decided to go with Freedom’s Forge.

This turned out to be a pretty interesting read. I’ve read much on World War II, but thus far it had been from the battle point of view. This however was from the industry point of view which was pretty amazing to learn about.

To learn at the amazing amount of scale that was taking place in manufacturing in such a short period of time was pretty crazy. To go from practically no army to pumping our thousands upon thousands of planes a month was impressive.

I’m glad to see these guys get some attention. Much of what they did not only won the war but shaped how we live today in a big way.

Was stumped with what to get at the library so I went with a tried and true formula for me, a Star Wars book. X-Wing: Mercy Kill turned out to be a little boring to me though. I don’t think it was a bad book at all, I just think I’m a bit Stars Warred out I suppose.

On the good side there is a talking Gamorrean as a main character. Always a big fan of the Gamorreans. Also Wedge Antilles daughter is in it as well. Wedge was always a favorite B character in the films for me growing up. A fine pilot to of survived through the three good films (unlike Porkins).

While I did read this one through to the end, I just couldn’t get that into it. Really took me to the very last chapters to figure out who was whom. A few of the characters went by numerous names, which really confused my easily confused self.

Overall it was nice to read up on some new characters instead of the usual Star Wars characters, I just didn’t get too into this one.

First off, I cannot believe that the Dream Team played in Barcelona 20 years ago. It really didn’t seem that long ago to me at all, but alas I am getting old.

As soon as I saw this in the new arrivals section at the library, I grabbed it. Back in 1992 the Dream Team was quite a big deal and we watched every minute that was aired. It had all the best players, of all time in many cases on the team. It was kind of like a video game at the time.

The author does a great job of setting the stage and reminding of how things were back in 1992. It is really amazing just how much has changed in the world has changed in that time.

I especially enjoyed the chapters on the intense practice game played by the Dream Team. It was easy to visual what it must have been like to of been a spectator at such a game. Funny stuff.

Also of enjoyment was the opinions of the various players now 20 years later. As a kid back in 1992, it’s really interesting to read about these guys as people no just these stars we would watch on TV.

Great book.

I was really stumped at the library. Just couldn’t make up my mind. So, out of the blue while wandering the isles I saw For Whom the Bell Tolls, and figured why not. It’s supposed to be a classic and I’ve got nothing better to do why my elbow heals up.

Hemmingway’s style of writing conversation is very interesting. While it seems a bit lengthy and silly at times, it does have an interesting way of getting you to know the characters better. It’s strange to me, but gets the job done.

The ending of course was sad as I’d expect nothing else from him. Even though I really expected a sad ending, I did find myself rooting and hoping otherwise during the last pages. Poor Anselmo, I rooted for the old man to somehow make it.

A good story, though maybe a bit too much on the dark and sad side for a guy recovering from elbow surgery.

Continuing with my elbow injury reading spree I picked out Amped from the recent arrivals section at the library. I liked the books cover,. That was fine enough for my selection criteria on this day.

Turned out to be a good book, worthy of it’s cover. The social dilemma of medical/technological haves and have nots was very interesting. While not quitte on the level in the book, there are very similar dilemmas facing us today.

So it was cool to read some science fiction that isn’t too far from the realm of reality. How the amps started, got out of hand, etc. Good stuff. Plus the term “Reggies” for normal folk was great. I think I might use it this week.

My super bored can’t do anything active self breezed through this one in two days. It was a fun read and entertained me well.