New Plan: I'm going to write up quick thoughts on a bunch of books over the next few days until I get completely caught up and then I'll (hopefully) be able to stay current again. *crosses fingers*
Super Mini Reviews
Towers of Midnight
, by Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson - I loved this one even though it was different from the previous book in the series (The Gathering Storm). For one thing, it focused heavily on one of my favorite characters: Perrin. I also liked that we're finally starting to see the whole epic story coming together. I can't wait for the final book! (861 pages)
The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow
, by Joyce Magnin - I was looking for a light fun read and thought this would be it. It was, until about halfway through, at which time it took a rather dark turn. The book wasn't bad but it was definitely NOT what I was expecting nor what I wanted it to be. Still, I loved the characters and thought they were very real - they were my favorite parts of the book. I got this from BEA last year and it took me until January to read it ... oops! (398 pages)
Twelve Angry Men, by L.A. Theater Works - This was a fascinating story. When you have twelve people stuck in a room arguing over the fate of one person things can get rather interesting. If you have a chance, definitely listen to this short play - it's worth your time. (1 hour, 50 minutes)
The Tortilla Curtain, by T.C. Boyle - This book gave me a lot to think about regarding illegal immigration. It's a complicated yet simple story of two families living in California and the ways that their lives intersect. These families couldn't be more different yet I identified with both of them in some way. I'm definitely interested in checking out more by this author! (11 hours, 47 minutes)Ok, that's all I've got for now! Has anyone read or listened to these? What did you think of them?
18 comments:
I saw the film version of 12 Angry Men back in middle school and I *still* think about it. I should really read this.
I've read Tortilla Curtain twice, and really found it fascinating. Would be a good book club pick IMO.
Amanda - Since you're on an audio book kick, maybe try the version I listened to (the link takes you to that version) - it was a full cast production and very well done.
Diane - Have you read his other book, When The Killing's Done? I started it but didn't finish in time and had to return it to the library (and the wait is forever to get it again). What I did get to was really good though!
I read Tortilla Curtain a few years ago for book club and thought it was very thought provoking. It's the only book I have read by the author but it definitely interested me in trying some of his other works.
I saw 12 angry men a long time ago. The book actually sounds interesting now. Will have to check it out.
Booksync - Ooh, that would be a GREAT book for book club! Maybe I can get mine to read one of his others ...
Robin - I've never seen the movie but if I recall correctly, the version I listened to had several famous actors in it, ones that MAY have been in the original movie version.
So I have close(ish) connections to 2 of your books. A family friend produced the 12 Angry Men movie which I think is a fascinating story! I haven't read the book though. And, TC Boyle lives around the corner from me in a fabulous Frank Lloyd Wright house. I thought Tortilla Curtain had a lot of good things going for it and it really got me thinking.
I read 12 Angry Men in high school, and I saw the movie a few years ago. Such a great play! It crosses my mind frequently.
I started The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow, but I didn't get around to finishing it. It's still on my shelf I think, in hopes I'll get back to it.
I'm getting ready to reread The Wheel of Time series from the begining. I haven't read any of the new ones yet and I want to refresh my memory before I do.
Helen - Ooh, that's doubly cool!
Word Lily - I hope you like the rest of Agnes Sparrow more than I did - the beginning was great but that drama in the middle really turned me off.
Ryan G - I truly love that series - I hope you like the new ones when you get to them!
I have the Tortilla Curtain on my shelf (unread as of this time). I have been curious about it so should pull it down one of these days.
Heather, I just read When The Killing's Done and liked it a lot. So satisfying. I would also recommend The Women, his novel about the lives of the 4 women who loved Frank Lloyd Wright.
I LOOOOVE Twelve Angry Men. Read it a few months ago for teaching purposes. Awesome! I bet the audio would be great.
Sheila - Tortilla is really worth reading, maybe even with your book club - it would give you a ton to discuss.
Kelly! - Ooh, thanks! I can't wait to get to When The Killing's Done, and now I'll have something else to look forward to after that.
Andi - It is SO good, isn't it?! Short but very powerful. I bet it would be a great one to teach!
I just posted on 12 Angry Men today! I didn't listen to the audio, but I agree it is excellent!
I'm glad you liked Tortilla Curtain! It's one of my wishlist. Illegal immigration makes for an interesting reading.
Twelve Angry Men sounds interesting. Would it be good for an 11 year old on a long car journey, do you think?
blackwatertown - It all depends on the 11 year old. My son wouldn't be into this one (he's only 9) but some kids might be. It would definitely be a great conversation starter though!
Post a Comment