The Book Thread (Official Thread)

[Thomas Balkcom]

Born Standing Up by Steve Martin.

I have been wanting to read this

[LouderThanBombs]

I have been wanting to read this

You definitely should. I found it for two dollars at the local library (reportedly "used," but basically brand new) and absolutely flew through it. He has a wonderful story of a life.

[doyouhas?]

Just got Nausea by Sartre. I'm gonna start it after I finish Camus' The Plague.

let me know how this is. camus is great and ive looked into reading some sartre when i finish my ever-increasing stack of books.

[musicroxmysox]

So has anyone read the appendices in House of Leaves. I just finished the Navidson Record ( first 500 pages or so/ the narrative) and I'm probably going to skip them/ maybe browse them at the most. Will I be missing out?

I'm pretty sure you won't miss too much. I read most but I completely skipped some of the ones that went on for pages. You're probably not a huge chicken like me but I had trouble sleeping for about a month after reading that book.

I only read random pages in here and I've seen Dave Eggers mentioned. One of my really good friends has been telling me to pick up A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius so I was wondering if you guys would recommend it.

[rising_tied]

Stuff White People Like - Christian Lander

also a great blog.. This book is actually getting me to read as it LISTS things.. its not an on going story but every page has closure to it.. I finally dont feel like Im reading a book.

[TJ Wells]

http://www.housmans.com/images/BleakHouse_000.jpg

Stanza on my iPhone makes reading this less difficult for some reason. Blew threw 200 pages (probably only about 50 or 60 actual book sized pages) very quickly.

[BryterJonah]

I find reading through a something in Adobe Reader on my comp easier and faster than an actual book.

[Blakebear]

I'm pretty sure you won't miss too much. I read most but I completely skipped some of the ones that went on for pages. You're probably not a huge chicken like me but I had trouble sleeping for about a month after reading that book.

I only read random pages in here and I've seen Dave Eggers mentioned. One of my really good friends has been telling me to pick up A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius so I was wondering if you guys would recommend it.

Its pretty scary, but I don't think it affected me all that much. Still, I could see how it would.

As for AHWOSG, definitely worth reading. The title is pretty accurate.

[My Broken Fever]

I finished Ulysses by James Joyce again today. I still hate it with a passion, self-indulgent and overrated.

[Blakebear]

I finished Ulysses by James Joyce again today. I still hate it with a passion, self-indulgent and overrated.

sweet brag man.

[BryterJonah]

I finished Ulysses by James Joyce again today. I still hate it with a passion, self-indulgent and overrated.

You claim to be a Libertarian. Of course your opinion blows ass.

[The Personist]

The only reason libertarians don't like Ulysses is because Ayn Rand told them to in the Fountainhead. It's especially funny considering how boring, stale, and didactic her own style is. She just doesn't know innovation when she sees it.

Everyone should read LOVE Park (http://www.amazon.com/Love-Park-Jim-Zervanos/dp/1934980625) by Jim Zervanos. It's amazing. I can't recommend it enough for anyone who enjoys Salinger, Eugenides, Faulkner, or just good writing in general. Check it.

[dakota0135]

Now that I'm thinking about taking English literature next year of school, I need to do the coursework instead of skipping the lessons... I need to choose 2 books and write a 2500 word essay comparison. Any ideas? I'd prefer not to do dysotopia....

[Animalhill]

The only reason libertarians don't like Ulysses is because Ayn Rand told them to in the Fountainhead. It's especially funny considering how boring, stale, and didactic her own style is. She just doesn't know innovation when she sees it.

Everyone should read LOVE Park (http://www.amazon.com/Love-Park-Jim-Zervanos/dp/1934980625) by Jim Zervanos. It's amazing. I can't recommend it enough for anyone who enjoys Salinger, Eugenides, Faulkner, or just good writing in general. Check it.
pffft already bought it.

[The Personist]

pffft already bought it.

A man of good taste, then. If you like it, you should post a review on it on Amazon. I just did, and even though I basically copy-pasted my review of it in my blog into Amazon, the 5-star rating gives him a boost. Plus he's an awesome dude. And a damn good writer. haha.

[Animalhill]

A man of good taste, then. If you like it, you should post a review on it on Amazon. I just did, and even though I basically copy-pasted my review of it in my blog into Amazon, the 5-star rating gives him a boost. Plus he's an awesome dude. And a damn good writer. haha.
haha will do dude. I know you're stoked on writing- what do you plan on doing with it? Poetry? Fiction? Teaching?

[The Personist]

haha will do dude. I know you're stoked on writing- what do you plan on doing with it? Poetry? Fiction? Teaching?

Ideally poetry and criticism (like essays and scholarly articles and shit). Teaching is not my passion and not my goal in life, but I would do it if it allowed me to work on my writing in the meantime.

[Animalhill]

Ideally poetry and criticism (like essays and scholarly articles and shit). Teaching is not my passion and not my goal in life, but I would do it if it allowed me to work on my writing in the meantime.
Right on. I need to get back into the swing of writing prose. I finished a short novel last year, but I've hated it more and more every day since its been written.

[mymomsapanda]

house of leave is really good

[The Personist]

Right on. I need to get back into the swing of writing prose. I finished a short novel last year, but I've hated it more and more every day since its been written.

Revisit it and revise!

I forgot to mention how much I would like to write plays as well. I've sent out a one-act to 9 or 10 places with no response yet. I LOVE writing for the stage.

[Animalhill]

Revisit it and revise!

I forgot to mention how much I would like to write plays as well. I've sent out a one-act to 9 or 10 places with no response yet. I LOVE writing for the stage.
Maybe- I've just matured so much since I wrote it.
That's awesome that you do screenplays too! I can see those being really fun to write.

[The Personist]

Maybe- I've just matured so much since I wrote it.
That's awesome that you do screenplays too! I can see those being really fun to write.

Not screenplays; regular plays :-p

Two VERY different artforms. I could never write a movie. Gawd, I'd go insane.

[Animalhill]

Not screenplays; regular plays :-p

Two VERY different artforms. I could never write a movie. Gawd, I'd go insane.
haha my bad, that's what I meant. My brain is FRIED from the office today. Yeah, writing a movie takes a vert specific sort of mind. Soooo many things to consider aside from artistic expression.

[The Personist]

haha my bad, that's what I meant. My brain is FRIED from the office today. Yeah, writing a movie takes a vert specific sort of mind. Soooo many things to consider aside from artistic expression.

And it's a completely different style. You have to include the different shots, the angles, camera positions, and shit that I honestly just don't care about when I write, haha.

[Robototron]

Stuff White People Like - Christian Lander

also a great blog.. This book is actually getting me to read as it LISTS things.. its not an on going story but every page has closure to it.. I finally dont feel like Im reading a book.

lol on so many levels

Currently reading A Room With A View (it's required summer reading). Not too interested in the story, but the descriptions of Florence are interesting.

The only reason libertarians don't like Ulysses is because Ayn Rand told them to in the Fountainhead.

Jesus fucking Christ, why do people always seem to think that Ayn Rand is the only libertarian author on the planet?

[The Personist]

She's not, but she certainly had a lot to say about Ulysses in that dreadful book.

[Blakebear]

She isn't even a libertarian.

Objectivism and Libertarianism are different things.

[The Personist]

The two go hand-in-hand. Ayn Rand is retarded.

[My Broken Fever]

You claim to be a Libertarian. Of course your opinion blows ass.

The Libertarian was actually a misclick, I don't like picking one view.

But beside my possible political preferences, I just think that an aesthetic writing style shouldn't outweigh the story in a book. But I get that feeling with most of Joyce's novels.

But anyway, congrats with a brilliant generalization. If someone doesn't like a book you like, you should just say "haha, he has this/that political view! He's wrong." I'm sure that's how all the problems in the world are fixed.

[The Personist]

The Libertarian was actually a misclick, I don't like picking one view.

But beside my possible political preferences, I just think that an aesthetic writing style shouldn't outweigh the story in a book. But I get that feeling with most of Joyce's novels.

But anyway, congrats with a brilliant generalization. If someone doesn't like a book you like, you should just say "haha, he has this/that political view! He's wrong." I'm sure that's how all the problems in the world are fixed.

Experimenting with narrative style isn't important...? Are you serious?

[My Broken Fever]

Experimenting with narrative style isn't important...? Are you serious?

I didn't say that, but I don't think that it should outweigh the story.

[The Personist]

I didn't say that, but I don't think that it should outweigh the story.

It could be integral to the story. What if the narrative style is a means to convey something a straightforward narrative cannot convey?

[TachyonEvan]

I just read Chuck Palahinuk's "Lullaby"

[My Broken Fever]

It could be integral to the story. What if the narrative style is a means to convey something a straightforward narrative cannot convey?

I agree, I just feel that Ulysses didn't exactly succeed at that. I realize that James Joyce was a genius and that Ulysses as a novel was groundbreaking, but I just cannot like it.

[TotalCollapse]

Someone Like You by Sarah Dessen

[Gaugzilla]

"My Booky Wook" by Russell Brand is a good, fun read. That man has some stories and is alot smarter and witter than I had expected.

[Gaugzilla]

To whoever suggested "Blankets" - Thanks, it was a fantastic read.

[m_rue]

Right now I'm working on Now and Then by Joseph Heller (his memoir). I really enjoy it... it feels more like he's talking to you than you're reading a book. Some of his stories crack me up.

[TheBaroness]

http://www.housmans.com/images/BleakHouse_000.jpg

Stanza on my iPhone makes reading this less difficult for some reason. Blew threw 200 pages (probably only about 50 or 60 actual book sized pages) very quickly.

Interesting that you say this, every hard copy of this book I've ever seen has such small text that it's completely unreadable for me. I'll give the iphone version a try.

[WhoSaidThat?]

The Authoritative Calvin and Hobbes

[TJ Wells]

Right now I'm working on Now and Then by Joseph Heller (his memoir). I really enjoy it... it feels more like he's talking to you than you're reading a book. Some of his stories crack me up.
Obviously the book that the CLASSIC film was based on ;-)

[My Broken Fever]

The Hyperion Omnibus by Dan Simmons, still my favourite books. (Together with the Endymion books)

[Mitch]

I was going to buy Blankets but the store did not have it in stock, so I instead purchased I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell.

[jordalsh]

http://beckyworks.files.wordpress.com/2009/04/book-thief-2.jpg

read this a few months ago.. I loved it, it takes a little while to get into however

[jordalsh]

I want to read The Raw Shark Texts and Naked Lunch, I just really need to find someone to give me money to buy them though, I hate going to the library because the old librarian lady always ends up giving me an evil stare and I feel very pressured

[eraserhead]

http://www.marshall.edu/library/bannedbooks/images/miceandmen.gif

Blew through this last Sunday. Great book.

[Mitch]

Finally on the last chapter of my book! Feel like I've been reading it forever...I like it a lot though.

[gloriousmuse]

Currently reading, Sex, Drugs, and Cocoa Puffs by Chuck Klosterman. I love it so far. It's hilarious

[Mitch]

Just finished my book :-)

Don't know whether to start I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell or Blankets next.

[dakota0135]

Reading The Time-Traveler's Wife at the moment. I prefer audio books to be quite honest, rather than physical reading.

[Broken Parachute]

I'm reading "The Last Campaign: Robert F. Kennedy and 82 Days That Inspired America" by Thurston Clarke right now, and thoroughly enjoying it.

I just bought "When You Are Engulfed in Flames" by David Sedaris today, and I'm going to read that next.

[doyouhas?]

Just finished my book :-)

Don't know whether to start I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell or Blankets next.

I Hope They Serve Beer In Hell is one of the funniest things I've ever come across. It barely qualifies as a book, but it serves it purpose well - pure entertainment.

[BryterJonah]

I prefer audio books to be quite honest, rather than physical reading.
I use those to follow along with a book whenever I'm missing my glasses to put less strain on my eyes.
I have to be following text to avoid feeling like a lazy bastard.

[MarsEatWorld]

http://beckyworks.files.wordpress.com/2009/04/book-thief-2.jpg

read this a few months ago.. I loved it, it takes a little while to get into however
I just finished reading this! Fanastic book.
I'm currently reading Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris

[MarsEatWorld]

Currently reading, Sex, Drugs, and Cocoa Puffs by Chuck Klosterman. I love it so far. It's hilarious
He's by far one of my favorite authors. Hilariousss. Have you read Killing yourself to live? Also great by him.

[beatsforonlyou]

wel im not reading anything right now, but my favorite books are the perks of being a wallflower, the giver, and coraline

[stayforawhile]

I;m reading book for my freshamn seminar next year called Mountains Beyond Mountains, it's pretty good, a tad boring but good.

[Mitch]

Finished Blankets. Starting I Hope They Serve Beer In Hell tonight.

[BryterJonah]

wel im not reading anything right now, but my favorite books are the perks of being a wallflower, the giver, and coraline
Stick with reading Neil Gaiman.
Avoid Perks because it''s pubescent BS that's only as popular as it is because kiddies pretend they can relate to it.

[beatsforonlyou]

Stick with reading Neil Gaiman.
Avoid Perks because it''s pubescent BS that's only as popular as it is because kiddies pretend they can relate to it.
no i dont relate to the book, i just love the story, its so good

[BryterJonah]

Not really.

Underwhelming 'twists' and 'turns' with a gimmick that doesn't deliver and a prissy narrator who bitches one minute,
then talks about being "INFINITE!" the next. I was wondering exactly when this dude would stop menstruating.

[MarsEatWorld]

no i dont relate to the book, i just love the story, its so good
read American Gods.

[Mitch]

What should I read after I Hope They Serve Beer In Hell?

House of Leaves, The Stranger, Sophie's World, The Alchemist, or American Gods (I can't decide if American Gods sounds good to me or not, though...I keep hearing about it though). If anyone has read all these books, please comment on them :-)

[Oddpac87]

What should I read after I Hope They Serve Beer In Hell?

House of Leaves, The Stranger, Sophie's World, The Alchemist, or American Gods (I can't decide if American Gods sounds good to me or not, though...I keep hearing about it though). If anyone has read all these books, please comment on them :-)
I rec it about once a week in this thread it seems, and that probably isn't enough. My favorite book of all-time, so my vote goes for that as your next book.

[MarsEatWorld]

What should I read after I Hope They Serve Beer In Hell?

House of Leaves, The Stranger, Sophie's World, The Alchemist, or American Gods (I can't decide if American Gods sounds good to me or not, though...I keep hearing about it though). If anyone has read all these books, please comment on them :-)
I've read the alchemist and american gods. I'd say read american gods because I can't even describe how good that book is.

edit: also, I read the alchemist in portuguese and it was outstanding.

[jawstheme]

What should I read after I Hope They Serve Beer In Hell?

House of Leaves, The Stranger, Sophie's World, The Alchemist, or American Gods (I can't decide if American Gods sounds good to me or not, though...I keep hearing about it though). If anyone has read all these books, please comment on them :-)

The only one of those I haven't read is House of Leaves, but I'd say read American Gods. Expecially if you haven't yet read Gaiman, because he is brilliant. I'm an asshole when it comes to historical accuracy in books so I looked up all the figures he mentioned as I was reading it and it all checked out. It reads pretty fast, very entertaining.
The Alchemist is pretty good, but not as great as it is popular.
The Stranger is awesome. Definitely a must read, I mean it's Camus afterall.
Sophie's World is really good too. Very strange, and it somehow all gets explained well at the end.

[chokemeout]

Knut Hamsun - Hunger - Was an easy read, not the most gripping or as !! as I expected.. but then it was written some time ago.

John Steinbeck - Of Mice and Men - Easy read, good stuff.

H. G. Wells - War Of The Worlds - Surprisingly good.

[dakota0135]

I use those to follow along with a book whenever I'm missing my glasses to put less strain on my eyes.
I have to be following text to avoid feeling like a lazy bastard.

I am lazy ;-) plus if I try and read some books, I just get too confused. I'm really simple to be quite honest.

[lolligurl159]

Anyone read The Perks of Being a Wallflower?

[sokonfused]

Anyone read The Perks of Being a Wallflower?

yup. it's a really good book actually. if you haven't read it, i really suggest that you do.

[lolligurl159]

yup. it's a really good book actually. if you haven't read it, i really suggest that you do.

I have read it, haha. It is really good. I just don't know too many people who have actually read it [out of my friends, really, but still.]

[sokonfused]

I have read it, haha. It is really good. I just don't know too many people who have actually read it [out of my friends, really, but still.]

oh. haha. yeah, i know kind of know what you mean. besides a certain group of friends, i haven't come across a lot of people who have actually read the book, or read it but didn't seem to like it.

[lolligurl159]

oh. haha. yeah, i know kind of know what you mean. besides a certain group of friends, i haven't come across a lot of people who have actually read the book, or read it but didn't seem to like it.

Yeahh. My friends want to read it. But they don't seem to go for books that are actually good, and not the teen drama junk like that. I enjoyed the book greatly. It made me think.

[sokonfused]

Yeahh. My friends want to read it. But they don't seem to go for books that are actually good, and not the teen drama junk like that. I enjoyed the book greatly. It made me think.

that's one of the great things about it too. that you can start looking at things from different aspects. some of the quotes just completely changed my perspective of things.

[josepablo32]

Currently reading Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel.

[lolligurl159]

that's one of the great things about it too. that you can start looking at things from different aspects. some of the quotes just completely changed my perspective of things.

Same. Its incredible. Its such a simple book, but yet its not. I dont even know haha. It definitely is the type of book that can change everything for you.

[sokonfused]

Currently reading Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel.

ooh. how are you liking it so far?

[josepablo32]

It's pretty good. I like how she mixes the recipe with the life of Tita. And how the steps of the recipe and its ingredients means something in the plot.

[MarsEatWorld]

Currently reading Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel.
I read that book a very very very long time ago.

[josepablo32]

I read that book a very very very long time ago.
You liked it?

[MarsEatWorld]

You liked it?
yes. I remember reading it twice. If I'm not confused this was in like....6th grade....hahhaha

[MarsEatWorld]

and yes I read it. I remember the cover.

[josepablo32]

yes. I remember reading it twice. If I'm not confused this was in like....6th grade....hahhaha
hahaha long time ago?

[MarsEatWorld]

hahaha long time ago?
7 years ago. yes.

[TheBaroness]

About to finish The Angel's Game by Carlos Ruiz Zafon. I haven't read Shadow of the Wind (this book is a prequel to that), but I'll have to pick it up next. It's a very enjoyable read - super entertaining, gothic, decadent - my only complaint is that, to me, it doesn't feel as if there's a greater purpose to the story. I mean, I don't really see what the author is trying to communicate about life or art or whatever, other than just trying to write an entertaining and engaging story.

[NickLopez]

That page about Perks of Being a Wallflower is :-d:-d:-d:-d

[MarsEatWorld]

about to start on chesil beach by ian mcewan

[josepablo32]

I just bought Nada by Carmen Laforet and Delirio by Laura Restrepo.

[TheBaroness]

About to start The City & The City by China Mieville

[chokemeout]

Anyone read The Perks of Being a Wallflower?

Yeah, and the author needs a serious lesson in what constitutes as writing.

[richie]

I've just read I hope they serve beer in hell and whoa, I couldn't stop laughing. I'm trying Sedaris right now 'cause they told me it's funny but it's not even nearly as funny as Tucker Max. So, anyone can recommend me a good book for another laugh?
I'm in the mood for laughing, I don't know, maybe it's the summer weather or just the fact that I can't stand Gracia Marquez's books any longer.

[anamericangod]

What should I read after I Hope They Serve Beer In Hell?

House of Leaves, The Stranger, Sophie's World, The Alchemist, or American Gods (I can't decide if American Gods sounds good to me or not, though...I keep hearing about it though). If anyone has read all these books, please comment on them :-)

American Gods is the greatest book I've ever read and probably ever will read, it's the book which I have to try so hard no to compare anything else to but usually do anyways. The Stranger is overrated, and House of Leaves is half book half gimmick.

Get American Gods, and if you don't like it, I'll refund your money.

I've read the alchemist and american gods. I'd say read american gods because I can't even describe how good that book is.

edit: also, I read the alchemist in portuguese and it was outstanding.

I've read the alchemist and american gods. I'd say read american gods because I can't even describe how good that book is.

edit: also, I read the alchemist in portuguese and it was outstanding.

I've read the alchemist and american gods. I'd say read american gods because I can't even describe how good that book is.

edit: also, I read the alchemist in portuguese and it was outstanding.

I've read the alchemist and american gods. I'd say read american gods because I can't even describe how good that book is.

edit: also, I read the alchemist in portuguese and it was outstanding.

I've read the alchemist and american gods. I'd say read american gods because I can't even describe how good that book is.

edit: also, I read the alchemist in portuguese and it was outstanding.

I've read the alchemist and american gods. I'd say read american gods because I can't even describe how good that book is.

edit: also, I read the alchemist in portuguese and it was outstanding.

I've read the alchemist and american gods. I'd say read american gods because I can't even describe how good that book is.

edit: also, I read the alchemist in portuguese and it was outstanding.

This this this this this this.

[lolligurl159]

Yeah, and the author needs a serious lesson in what constitutes as writing.

...The book is a boys diary. Of course the author didn't write it well.

[Mitch]

American Gods is the greatest book I've ever read and probably ever will read, it's the book which I have to try so hard no to compare anything else to but usually do anyways. The Stranger is overrated, and House of Leaves is half book half gimmick.

Get American Gods, and if you don't like it, I'll refund your money.


Hahaha, well I just started The Stranger but after I finish it (probably today or tomorrow) I'll probably buy American Gods. While I obviously won't make you refund my money if I don't like the book, I will pray that Rohan never posts the Gabe interview :-p

[MarsEatWorld]

American Gods is the greatest book I've ever read and probably ever will read, it's the book which I have to try so hard no to compare anything else to but usually do anyways. The Stranger is overrated, and House of Leaves is half book half gimmick.

Get American Gods, and if you don't like it, I'll refund your money.















This this this this this this.
Holy repeat.

[chokemeout]

...The book is a boys diary. Of course the author didn't write it well.

oh, silly me!
I must have missed that.

[dakota0135]

I just finished The Time-Traveller's Wife. I cried :-(

[Mitch]

Just finished The Stranger, and purchased American Gods. Starting it soon.

[TachyonEvan]

Fuck.

Chuck Palahniuk blows my mind.

[hailthewarrior]

Currently reading The Green Mile. Love Stephen King so much.

[anamericangod]

Just finished The Stranger, and purchased American Gods. Starting it soon.

I hope you enjoy it as much as I want you to. I'm not even sure if "enjoy" is the right word. It's more like an experience.

Fuck.

Chuck Palahniuk blows my mind.

I'll go ahead and fill the obligatory "he's overrated and there's much better out there" comment.

[lolligurl159]

oh, silly me!
I must have missed that.

sarcasm?
Im just saying that of course the writing isn't brilliant. It really wasn't expected to be.

[zion the lion]

I got a total of 50 dollars for my birthday, and I was going to spend it all on books, but I have no idea what to read. Does anyone read anything in the same genre as House of Leaves and Click that was really good?

[BryterJonah]

I got a total of 50 dollars for my birthday, and I was going to spend it all on books, but I have no idea what to read. Does anyone read anything in the same genre as House of Leaves and Click that was really good?
Read 2,666.

[Thomas Balkcom]

Just finished The Stranger, and purchased American Gods. Starting it soon.

what did you think of The Stranger? I adore that book

[The Personist]

what did you think of The Stranger? I adore that book

Ahhh it's beyond amazing.

[TachyonEvan]

I'll go ahead and fill the obligatory "he's overrated and there's much better out there" comment.

I've never read a novel that was as much of a mindfuck as "Lullaby. What else is out there?

[TheBaroness]

Read 2666.

THIS

[Mitch]

what did you think of The Stranger? I adore that book

I loved it. One of those books I went and read about as soon as I finished it in order to clarify the themes and pick up on things I didn't grasp.

I really liked how well the character's sense of detachment was displayed.

[NickLopez]

Read 2666.
YES. Ignore everything else besides this until you've done it.

[Mitch]

I hope you enjoy it as much as I want you to. I'm not even sure if "enjoy" is the right word. It's more like an experience.

I hope so too. It's been a while since I've read a modern fiction novel (especially one that is found in the science fiction section), haha.

[Oddpac87]

I just finished The Time-Traveller's Wife. I cried :-(
My second favorite book of all time. Really looking forward to the movie. I hope it doesn't ruin things as badly as most movies do.

Fuck.

Chuck Palahniuk blows my mind.
Chuck is my favorite author, but I think Invisible Monsters and Survivor were the only ones that "blew my mind". He just writes consistently extremely entertaining books.

[TachyonEvan]

My second favorite book of all time. Really looking forward to the movie. I hope it doesn't ruin things as badly as most movies do.


Chuck is my favorite author, but I think Invisible Monsters and Survivor were the only ones that "blew my mind". He just writes consistently extremely entertaining books.

I haven't read either- only Fight Club, Lullaby, and Diary.

[eraserhead]

http://www.palomar.edu/english/images/no%20Country%20for%20Old%20Men.jpg

Finally finished this yesterday. really, really good.

[Oddpac87]

I haven't read either- only Fight Club, Lullaby, and Diary.
I highly rec both of the ones I said, as well as Choke.

[TachyonEvan]

I highly rec both of the ones I said, as well as Choke.

I've got a friend who's gradually lending me everything, so I'll get to them at some point for sure.

[TheBaroness]

so i guess I'm going to check out this 'American Gods' book since so many people are blowing their loads over it.

[CstSnow]

so i guess I'm going to check out this 'American Gods' book since so many people are blowing their loads over it.

You will not be disappointed, I have read a bunch of Gaimain's stuff before and loved it , but never got around to American Gods until a couple weeks ago and it is a great great read.

[dakota0135]

My second favorite book of all time. Really looking forward to the movie. I hope it doesn't ruin things as badly as most movies do.

I read the book cause I thought the trailer for the movie looked really good, and I loved the book, and I really do hope the film doesn't ruin it :-(

[The Personist]

The Plague was a fucking amazing book.

[doyouhas?]

what did you think of The Stranger? I adore that book

Great book, but in my humble opinion, it doesn't hold a light to The Fall.

[Thomas Balkcom]

Great book, but in my humble opinion, it doesn't hold a light to The Fall.

you have convinced me to read this as soon as I finish the book I am working on now

[The Personist]

Great book, but in my humble opinion, it doesn't hold a light to The Fall.

I need to fucking read that next. Damn.

[unwritten]

Coming Summer 2006

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v634/jeremyfromva/cover.jpg
I'm still waiting for my preorder. I must read about these twists that haven't been done before!

[coryatlarge]

i started world war z on monday and now i'm about half way through it. its such a good read.

[smogs]

I've started Lolita, A Clockwork Orange, 1984, and 100 Years of Solitude in the past 6 months and would love to finish them all. Damn school always getting in the way.

[Asadcow]

I just read through House of Leaves and loved it. Im thinking about picking up Only Revolutions,has anybody read it? is it a good read? How does it compare to House of Leaves?

[colorlesscliche]

Has anyone heard anything about Pride and Prej and Zombies?

[happygilmoreat]

I've started Lolita, A Clockwork Orange, 1984, and 100 Years of Solitude in the past 6 months and would love to finish them all. Damn school always getting in the way.

I haven't read the others but I really like 1984

[Wait_For_It]

I just picked up The Da Vinci Code from the library.

[smogs]

I haven't read the others but I really like 1984

Yeah, I really liked 1984 while I was reading it, then class got in the way. It was super interesting.

[Love As Arson]

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/518yzf%2Bi3OL._SS500_.jpg

In our culture, porn makes the man. So argues Robert Jensen in Getting Off: Pornography and the End of Masculinity. Jensen's treatise begins with a simple demand: "Be a man." It ends with a defiant response: "I chose to struggle to be a human being." The journey from masculinity to humanity is found in the candid and intelligent exploration of porn's devastating role in defining masculinity.

Getting Off seamlessly blends personal anecdotes from Jensen's years as a feminist anti-pornography activist with scholarly research. In his trademark conversational style, he shows how mainstream pornography reinforces social definitions of manhood and influences men's attitudes about women and how to treat them.

Pornography is a thriving multi-billion-dollar industry; it drives the direction of emerging media technology. Pornography also makes for complicated politics. These days, anti-porn arguments are assumed to be "anti-sex" and thus a critical debate is silenced. This book breaks that silence. Alarming and thought-provoking, Getting Off asks tough, but crucial, questions about pornography, sex, manhood, and the way toward genuine social justice.

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/11/05/NSOS13RA39.DTL

[The Personist]

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/518yzf%2Bi3OL._SS500_.jpg



http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/11/05/NSOS13RA39.DTL

This looks awesome.

[Love As Arson]

The author is a "radical Christian".

http://www.zmag.org/zspace/commentaries/3900

[The Personist]

That's pretty cool.

[sokonfused]

I've started Lolita, A Clockwork Orange, 1984, and 100 Years of Solitude in the past 6 months and would love to finish them all. Damn school always getting in the way.
Lolita is a really good book. how are you liking 100 Years of Solitude though? i bought it and planned on reading it, but just never got to it.
I just picked up The Da Vinci Code from the library.
Da Vinci Code is ok. but Angels and Demons is far better. at least imo.

[doyouhas?]

you have convinced me to read this as soon as I finish the book I am working on now

It's so different than The Stranger, but completely beautiful. The entire book is a monologue, so if you have the time, I would suggest reading it in one sitting, or at least over the course of a day. Let me know how you like this when you get around to it.

[Thomas Balkcom]

It's so different than The Stranger, but completely beautiful. The entire book is a monologue, so if you have the time, I would suggest reading it in one sitting, or at least over the course of a day. Let me know how you like this when you get around to it.

Will do, that's how I read The Stranger, I sat down outside downtown just to start it and ended up finishing in that same spot.

[doyouhas?]

Will do, that's how I read The Stranger, I sat down outside downtown just to start it and ended up finishing in that same spot.

I did the same thing. The Stranger is definitely a compelling read. I felt like I had been on quite the journey by the end of it.

[smogs]

Lolita is a really good book. how are you liking 100 Years of Solitude though? i bought it and planned on reading it, but just never got to it.

Da Vinci Code is ok. but Angels and Demons is far better. at least imo.

I'm really liking 100 Years of Solitude. I'm only a few chapters in, but it's been pretty captivating so far. I read Love in the Time of Cholera and it didn't hold my attention nearly as much as 100 Years has so far.

[Mitch]

Great book, but in my humble opinion, it doesn't hold a light to The Fall.

I will read The Fall as soon as I finish American Gods. Thanks.

[MarsEatWorld]

I will read The Fall as soon as I finish American Gods. Thanks.
:celebrate:
AMERICAN GODS!!

[Wait_For_It]

Lolita is a really good book. how are you liking 100 Years of Solitude though? i bought it and planned on reading it, but just never got to it.

Da Vinci Code is ok. but Angels and Demons is far better. at least imo.
I'm planning on reading that too.

[Mitch]

:celebrate:
AMERICAN GODS!!

That just got you way too excited. Hahaha.

[MarsEatWorld]

so i guess I'm going to check out this 'American Gods' book since so many people are blowing their loads over it.
I'm not blowing my load.... but I agree. READ IT.

[MarsEatWorld]

That just got you way too excited. Hahaha.
Haha. Such a great book. Can't wait until you're done.

[MarsEatWorld]

I highly rec both of the ones I said, as well as Choke.
ahhh I love Choke. Man, people here have great taste! Most of the people in my senior class read Twilight and romance novels. the fuckkkk

[Mitch]

ahhh I love Choke. Man, people here have great taste! Most of the people in my senior class read Twilight and romance novels. the fuckkkk

Ehh, it used to bother me that everyone reads Twilight, but now it just makes me happy to see people actually reading. Even my sister--who can be seen as sort of the antichrist of the book world--is reading it!

[MarsEatWorld]

Ehh, it used to bother me that everyone reads Twilight, but now it just makes me happy to see people actually reading. Even my sister--who can be seen as sort of the antichrist of the book world--is reading it!
But Twilight is like negative reading.....

[Mitch]

But Twilight is like negative reading.....

Eh, as poorly written as the series may be, the words still require focus and encourage imagination.

[MarsEatWorld]

Eh, as poorly written as the series may be, the words still require focus and encourage imagination.
Idk about that. But I guess that's good for you. I still get really pissed when someone is reading it near me. Haha

[Mitch]

Idk about that. But I guess that's good for you. I still get really pissed when someone is reading it near me. Haha

Oh I didn't mean to say that I don't get pissed when people read Twilight--ESPECIALLY if it's an adult reading it. But at the same time, seeing people who never read outside of what's required now reading makes me happy.

Edit: That last sentence was awful. Sorry, haha.

[Mitch]

Idk about that. But I guess that's good for you. I still get really pissed when someone is reading it near me. Haha

And what don't you know about? That the words require one to focus? That they provoke people's imagination?

[MarsEatWorld]

And what don't you know about? That the words require one to focus? That they provoke people's imagination?
The words used.

[MarsEatWorld]

Oh I didn't mean to say that I don't get pissed when people read Twilight--ESPECIALLY if it's an adult reading it. But at the same time, seeing people who never read outside of what's required now reading makes me happy.

Edit: That last sentence was awful. Sorry, haha.
Gotcha. Still, it makes me want to stick American Gods in their face or Choke....or Slaughterhouse 5.

[Mitch]

Gotcha. Still, it makes me want to stick American Gods in their face or Choke....or Slaughterhouse 5.

Haha, we could start a new trend and throw good books at anyone reading Twilight. Maybe I'll go buy a few copies of my favorite book for this reason, lol.

[MarsEatWorld]

Haha, we could start a new trend and throw good books at anyone reading Twilight. Maybe I'll go buy a few copies of my favorite book for this reason, lol.
Yessss. Replace their book. then make a twilight burn pit.

edit: I AM moving to Maryland in like a month. LOL

[sokonfused]

I'm really liking 100 Years of Solitude. I'm only a few chapters in, but it's been pretty captivating so far. I read Love in the Time of Cholera and it didn't hold my attention nearly as much as 100 Years has so far.

hmm. i think i'll start reading it then. and i tried to read Love in the Time of Cholera. but i kind of just stopped. something about it didn't just keep me interested enough i guess.

[smogs]

hmm. i think i'll start reading it then. and i tried to read Love in the Time of Cholera. but i kind of just stopped. something about it didn't just keep me interested enough i guess.

Yeah, give it a try! The only reason I ended up finishing Love in the Time of Cholera was because so many people had recommended it to me that I thought I was missing something. Haha.

[happygilmoreat]

Haha. Such a great book. Can't wait until you're done.

I was looking for a new book to read and read about this book so I think I'm gonna pick
it up shortly

[ohLOOKitsLEAH]

I just finished House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski (sp?) and then I read an erotica novel, Wetlands, by Charlotte Roche (sp?).
Both were horrifying, House of Leaves in a good way, Wetlands... not so much.
:)

[MarsEatWorld]

I was looking for a new book to read and read about this book so I think I'm gonna pick
it up shortly
Yesssss.

[funtasticrich]

almost finished Let The Right One In. I'd already seen the movie and was worried it would ruin the book for me, but its the other way around. the book and the film work well together, with the book fleshing out some points from the movie and with extra subplots that add more to the overall story

[TheBaroness]

I'm not blowing my load.... but I agree. READ IT.

I'll probably start it today, have about 100 pages of The City & The City to finish (that's an excellent book, btw)

[dakota0135]

I've heard people on here talk about having books on their iPods...? Mine is a 4th gen nano, can I get books on there?

[erinfxs]

I've just finished reading 'The Truth About Forever' by Sarah Dessen, which I only read because I am such a fan of 'This Lullaby' by her. It was pretty good, but I still prefer 'This Lullaby' much more.

Now for the summer, I just want to also read 'The Host' by Stephenie Meyer. I am not a fan of the Twilight books but I actually heard better things about this, and the themes it has and general idea of it intrigues me though, so I hope that will possibly change my mind upon her.

Then I have to read 'Lord of the Flies' for my English class. Not sure what to make of it yet, but I actually think I will like it unlike her pre-warning of "You won't enjoy the read most likely but it provokes some interesting ideas. Please read carefully!"

[JuneJuly]

I finished up HP #6 and now I'm on to Hammerhead Ranch Motel by Tim Dorsey.

[plunk87]

I've heard people on here talk about having books on their iPods...? Mine is a 4th gen nano, can I get books on there?

Yup. Audio books! Just import to your itunes the same way you would a song :)

[BryterJonah]

Audio "books"
Fixed.

[dakota0135]

Yup. Audio books! Just import to your itunes the same way you would a song :)

No, I know how to do audio books, they're what I use mostly... I just have a book on my computer that is in pdf form and I want to put it onto my iPod.

[Animalhill]

Just finished, "The Brothers Karamazov" by Dostoyevsky. Fucking amazing.

[doyouhas?]

Just finished, "The Brothers Karamazov" by Dostoyevsky. Fucking amazing.

Fantastic book. Which translation did you read?

though the answer has better be the Pevear and Volokhonsky one

[Animalhill]

Fantastic book. Which translation did you read?

though the answer has better be the Pevear and Volokhonsky one
Whew- I was begining to think the only thing people read on this fucking site was that Twilight bullshit.
Yes, it was the Pevear and Volokhonsky translation. So good. I'm currently trudging through "Swann's Way" by Marcel Proust. So fucking dense.

[zion the lion]

I just finished House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski (sp?) and then I read an erotica novel, Wetlands, by Charlotte Roche (sp?).
Both were horrifying, House of Leaves in a good way, Wetlands... not so much.
:)

I read House of Leaves last year, I think that was the closest that I'll ever get to erotica. It was great though, I would read it again, if it werent for the fact that I let someone borrow it and they never gave it back to me.

[Tautou107]

Just finished The Things They Carried by Tim O'Brien and Choke by Palahniuk. I thought both were pretty enjoyable. Trying to find something to read next.

[doyouhas?]

Whew- I was begining to think the only thing people read on this fucking site was that Twilight bullshit.
Yes, it was the Pevear and Volokhonsky translation. So good. I'm currently trudging through "Swann's Way" by Marcel Proust. So fucking dense.

It's either Twilight or Palaniuck(spl?). I love all the foot-notes in the Pevear translation. It thoroughly helps with understanding the broader spectrum of Russian culture at that time. In Search Of Lost Time is on my list to read sometime in my life. I've heard nothing but wonderful things about it, it will just take quite the commitment to get through that beast of literature.

[saysmydoctor]

Whew- I was begining to think the only thing people read on this fucking site was that Twilight bullshit.
Yes, it was the Pevear and Volokhonsky translation. So good. I'm currently trudging through "Swann's Way" by Marcel Proust. So fucking dense.
I plan to read this in the near future.

Finishing up Utopia by Thomas More (translated by Clarence Miller) then I'm tackling Brave New World by Huxley.

[coryatlarge]

Whew- I was begining to think the only thing people read on this fucking site was that Twilight bullshit.
Yes, it was the Pevear and Volokhonsky translation. So good. I'm currently trudging through "Swann's Way" by Marcel Proust. So fucking dense.
how do you know which translation you have? i picked up a copy of it at a garage sale and it just has the title and author on the cover...

[ohLOOKitsLEAH]

if it werent for the fact that I let someone borrow it and they never gave it back to me.

... I hate when that happens.

[MarsEatWorld]

I'm reading on chesil beach by ian mcewan

[MarsEatWorld]

Just finished The Things They Carried by Tim O'Brien and Choke by Palahniuk. I thought both were pretty enjoyable. Trying to find something to read next.
2 of my favorites

[zion the lion]

... I hate when that happens.

What makes it worse is that the lady moved, and that book was expensive haha. Oh well, at least theres a possiblity she'll read it, or one of her kids will read it.

[hollyy.heart.at]

i am reading Along for the Ride by Sarah Dessen

[funtasticrich]

just brought the big sleep by raymond chandler.

[ArmedROBery]

I plan to read this in the near future.

Finishing up Utopia by Thomas More (translated by Clarence Miller) then I'm tackling Brave New World by Huxley.

One of my all-time favorite books. Enjoy it dude. I think it's even better than 1984, since they're both kinda in the same vein of dystopian future.

[The Personist]

Reading Nausea by Sartre, the The Fall by Camus and hopefully Repetition and Philosophical Crumbs by Kierkegaard.

[saysmydoctor]

One of my all-time favorite books. Enjoy it dude. I think it's even better than 1984, since they're both kinda in the same vein of dystopian future.
I'm reading it again, it's been a while though. I love 1984, one of my favorite books.

[Animalhill]

It's either Twilight or Palaniuck(spl?). I love all the foot-notes in the Pevear translation. It thoroughly helps with understanding the broader spectrum of Russian culture at that time. In Search Of Lost Time is on my list to read sometime in my life. I've heard nothing but wonderful things about it, it will just take quite the commitment to get through that beast of literature.
Agreed. Yeah, "In Search of Lost Time" is most certainly the densest work I've read, but it is absolutely amazing. He can write 5 pages about a candle going out and keep it riveting.

[Animalhill]

I plan to read this in the near future.

Finishing up Utopia by Thomas More (translated by Clarence Miller) then I'm tackling Brave New World by Huxley.
Its a decent read. The writing isn't outstanding, but the concept is great.

[Animalhill]

how do you know which translation you have? i picked up a copy of it at a garage sale and it just has the title and author on the cover...
http://www.amazon.com/Brothers-Karamazov-Fyodor-Dostoevsky/dp/0374528373/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1248648307&sr=8-1
Mine says it right on the cover :shrug:

[hollyy.heart.at]

Just about to start Swapping Lives by Jane Green.

[callmetmax]

I am pretty interested in the science vs religion debate. I was wondering if anyone had any good recs on this topic? I am not really looking for a straightforward atheist book because that is what I keep running into when doing research on the topic. I was wondering if anyone has heard of a book that lays out both arguments. thanks!

[coryatlarge]

http://www.amazon.com/Brothers-Karamazov-Fyodor-Dostoevsky/dp/0374528373/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1248648307&sr=8-1
Mine says it right on the cover :shrug:
hmm well mines a pretty old copy so i'm going to assume its the original version? oh well.

[phil19]

im currently reading speaker for the dead by orson scott card

[dakota0135]

Anybody read The Children Of Men? If so, thoughts etc?

[joeag1985]

Anybody read The Children Of Men? If so, thoughts etc?

Ah damn. I thought that read 'Of Mice and Men' for a split second... was already thinking of main points and what not.

[dakota0135]

Ah damn. I thought that read 'Of Mice and Men' for a split second... was already thinking of main points and what not.

Haha no, though that is a good book :-)

[Animalhill]

Haha no, though that is a good book :-)
East of Eden > Everything else Steinbeck ever wrote

[dakota0135]

East of Eden > Everything else Steinbeck wrote

I've not read it yet, but heard here before that it's very good.

[joeag1985]

Haha no, though that is a good book :-)

Cool. You've read it. :-) Steinbeck fan? I read Grapes of Wrath ages ago, how I first heard of him. Another good book.

[dakota0135]

Cool. You've read it. :-) Steinbeck fan? I read Grapes of Wrath ages ago, how I first heard of him. Another good book.

I've only read The Red Pony and Of Mice And Men, but they are some of my favourite books. I do intend to read more of his books this year.

[Animalhill]

Cool. You've read it. :-) Steinbeck fan? I read Grapes of Wrath ages ago, how I first heard of him. Another good book.
Have you read East of Eden? Way better than Grapes- though Grapes was a great book.

[joeag1985]

Have you read East of Eden? Way better than Grapes- though Grapes was a great book.

No funny you should ask, never read it. I've been meaning to... I went the wrong way about it. Saw the movie version first. Amazing film. Just a pity I didn't read the book first.

[Animalhill]

No funny you should ask, never read it. I've been meaning to... I went the wrong way about it. Saw the movie version first. Amazing film. Just a pity I didn't read the book first.
The book is honestly 10000000 times better than the movie. The book has SO MUCH depth, and the best characterization I've ever seen. Easly best work of fiction I've ever read.

[joeag1985]

The book is honestly 10000000 times better than the movie. The book has SO MUCH depth, and the best characterization I've ever seen. Easly best work of fiction I've ever read.

Wow. Now there's a definitive 'go buy this book now' statement if ever there was one. I shall definitely make it my business to pick that text up post-haste. I've clearly neglected it for too long.

I've been reading a lot of Murakami lately actually... ever read 'South of the Border...'? Such an enthralling book. One of those where you have to go for a good walk to clear your head after it.

[Animalhill]

Wow. Now there's a definitive 'go buy this book now' statement if ever there was one. I shall definitely make it my business to pick that text up post-haste. I've clearly neglected it for too long.
haha yeah man- I would not say that for many books, but this is honestly an amazing work. I've read it three times in the past year. Blows my mind every single time. Shoot me a PM after you read it and let me know what you think!

[danielineffigy]

I used to read all the time in junior high school, but I rarely do anymore. I feel like I'm getting dumber. Some totally new reading recommendations would be awesome. I've never been able to read for enjoyment and I want to change that.

The last couple things I read for pleasure included that Dan Kennedy novel 'Rock On' and some Palahniuk books, recommended by AP users. They were alright, but I think the guy's really overrated. I'm not really into sci-fi or fantasy.

Where's a good place to start?

[Animalhill]

I used to read all the time in junior high school, but I rarely do. I feel like I'm getting dumber. Some totally new reading recommendations would be awesome. I've never been able to read for enjoyment and I want to change that.

The last couple things I read for please included that Dan Kennedy novel 'Rock On' and some Palahniuk books, recommended by AP users. They were alright, but I think the guy's really overrated. I'm not really into sci-fi or fantasy.

Where's a good place to start?
East of Eden- by John Steinbeck. Trust me.

[Robototron]

Fantastic book. Which translation did you read?

though the answer has better be the Pevear and Volokhonsky one

Pevear & Volokhonsky should just translate everything, really. Even Pevear's translation of The Three Musketeers was infinitely better than some other translation I read a few years back and, not to disparage M. Dumas, that book isn't even one that requires close reading.

Probably the best pair of translators I've come across, bar none. You really get the feeling reading their translations that it's probably the closest you're going to get to the original language.

[Animalhill]

Pevear & Volokhonsky should just translate everything, really. Even Pevear's translation of The Three Musketeers was infinitely better than some other translation I read a few years back and, not to disparage M. Dumas, that book isn't even one that requires close reading.

Probably the best pair of translators I've come across, bar none. You really get the feeling reading their translations that it's probably the closest you're going to get to the original language.
Totally agree with you. However, I think Wyatt Mason was the perfect person to translate the works of Arthur Rimbaud.

[happygilmoreat]

I'm currently reading Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer.


I just bought this book on the weekend. Interested to see how it compares with the movie

[Tautou107]

I just bought this book on the weekend. Interested to see how it compares with the movie
I just finished this. Usually I find books to be way better than the movies, but in this case I thought both were great. The book goes a little more into detail about Chris' family, though, which is nice.

[AnUnseenLove]

I am currently reading Phantoms by Dean Koontz

[happygilmoreat]

I just finished this. Usually I find books to be way better than the movies, but in this case I thought both were great. The book goes a little more into detail about Chris' family, though, which is nice.

Nice, it would be hard to top the movie. Yeah the movie doesn't tell that much about his family. Other than those couple of scenes when his parents are arguing, there's really nothing.

[Tautou107]

Nice, it would be hard to top the movie. Yeah the movie doesn't tell that much about his family. Other than those couple of scenes when his parents are arguing, there's really nothing.
It doesn't go into like, excessive detail about them or anything, but it's different from the movie. In the book, they seem to really care a lot more about Chris and weren't as bad as they sometimes appeared in the movie. (For instance, they even hired a private investigator to look for Chris, which was left out of the movie, I think?)

[fishingthe_sky]

Glad to see East of Eden getting so much love here. One of my all time favorite books, and definitely one of the best American novels ever written.

[jawstheme]

Glad to see East of Eden getting so much love here. One of my all time favorite books, and definitely one of the best American novels ever written.

My favorite Steinbeck novel, and he has some great ones.

[bradsonemanband]

just started reading THE TIME TRAVELER'S WIFE today.

[fishingthe_sky]

My favorite Steinbeck novel, and he has some great ones.
There really isn't a wrong choice when picking a favorite Steinbeck novel. Even "Of Mice and Men" is great.

[happygilmoreat]

It doesn't go into like, excessive detail about them or anything, but it's different from the movie. In the book, they seem to really care a lot more about Chris and weren't as bad as they sometimes appeared in the movie. (For instance, they even hired a private investigator to look for Chris, which was left out of the movie, I think?)

Oh really? Yeah that part is definitely not in the movie. I remember they went to his apartment and he wasn't there, and his mom would see his face everywhere, but I was surprised they weren't shown more. Maybe it was just me. I guess thats the way Penn wanted to go with it.

[Oddpac87]

just started reading THE TIME TRAVELER'S WIFE today.
You won't regret it.

[Mitch]

I've been reading a lot of Murakami lately actually... ever read 'South of the Border...'? Such an enthralling book. One of those where you have to go for a good walk to clear your head after it.

Just looked up "South of the Border..." May have to make this book my first Murakami novel.

[joeag1985]

Just looked up "South of the Border..." May have to make this book my first Murakami novel.

Good call. It's his best book in my humble opinion.

[mrxstripes]

I just bought this book on the weekend. Interested to see how it compares with the movie
I actually liked the movie better (not by too much though), but the book is still a great and fascinating read. I need to reread it to be honest.
I think the last book i read was Deathly Hallows haha, I felt like rereading it after seeing Half Blood Prince and actually forgot like half of the book so it was just as good as he first time.

[Indoor Living]

Just bought Catch-22 today. Haven't read it in months. One of my favorite books. Heller is a great author, IMO.

[BryterJonah]

just started reading THE TIME TRAVELER'S WIFE today.
Trailers make it look like The Notebook Redux. Damn shame.

[dakota0135]

Trailers make it look like The Notebook Redux. Damn shame.

Well it kinda is.... Just without that whole time traveling thing.

[TJ Wells]

Putting Bleak House on hold 'til I can find an actual physical copy of it at the used book store. I feel the only time to use an iPhone app to read is on long trips. I prefer having a physical book the rest of the time.

Just started reading this, finally. Got it for $2 used hardcover:

http://www.shared-visions.com/reviews/LovelyBones-m.jpg

Also picked up these two:

http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/c0/c3339.jpg

http://www.ebooknetworking.com/books/030/681/big0306816083.jpg

[TJ Wells]

Well it kinda is.... Just without that whole time traveling thing.
And the Notebook is an awesome movie.

[BryterJonah]

I didn't mean anything against the Notebook.
I just would have preferred it chase a more 500 Days of Summer audience over the Oprah's Book Club crowd.

[Losthope182]

Currently about 3/4 of the way through Firehouse by David Halberstam.

[dakota0135]

And the Notebook is an awesome movie.

True.

[Animalhill]

Glad to see East of Eden getting so much love here. One of my all time favorite books, and definitely one of the best American novels ever written.
haha and you know all that love is coming from me ;-)
It is probaby one of the best works of fiction I've ever read. NOTE: My band now has a duwop song titled, "Cathy Ames". YES.

[fishingthe_sky]

haha and you know all that love is coming from me ;-)
It is probaby one of the best works of fiction I've ever read. NOTE: My band now has a duwop song titled, "Cathy Ames". YES.
Hahaha nice man. Those lyrics were solid. I don't know if you've read it, but Gabriel Garcia Marquez's One Hundred Years of Solitude reminded me a lot of East of Eden, not necessarily in terms of the plot, but in how emotionally and technically deep it was. Definitely worth checking out.

[Animalhill]

Hahaha nice man. Those lyrics were solid. I don't know if you've read it, but Gabriel Garcia Marquez's One Hundred Years of Solitude reminded me a lot of East of Eden, not necessarily in terms of the plot, but in how emotionally and technically deep it was. Definitely worth checking out.
haha I have read that and agree with you. In turn- I would recommend , "The Brothers Karamazov" by Dostoevsky. It may seem impossible to link to East of Eden, given its deep root in Russian culture, and East of Eden's deeo root in American; however their penchant for deep characterization and definition of the, "Hero" are very similar.

[fishingthe_sky]

haha I have read that and agree with you. In turn- I would recommend , "The Brothers Karamazov" by Dostoevsky. It may seem impossible to link to East of Eden, given its deep root in Russian culture, and East of Eden's deeo root in American; however their penchant for deep characterization and definition of the, "Hero" are very similar.
I own it, but I've never read it (I'm a book collector who can't keep up with the reading). I know a lot of people and authors I like who reference it, so I know it's good, and that I'd probably like it. I'm actually thinking about starting David Wallace Foster's Infinite Jest, and I'm a little frightened by the fact that it's 1000+ pages.

[Animalhill]

I own it, but I've never read it (I'm a book collector who can't keep up with the reading). I know a lot of people and authors I like who reference it, so I know it's good, and that I'd probably like it. I'm actually thinking about starting David Wallace Foster's Infinite Jest, and I'm a little frightened by the fact that it's 1000+ pages.
hahaha that is on my list to be the next book I read. If you want daunting: Swann's Way by Marcel Proust. Dude can write 25 pages about a candle going out: and its beautiful.

[fishingthe_sky]

hahaha that is on my list to be the next book I read. If you want daunting: Swann's Way by Marcel Proust. Dude can write 25 pages about a candle going out: and its beautiful.
Proust is ok, though the stuff I've read never got me excited enough to want to read a full novel by him. If we're talking daunting page-wise, Leslie Marmon Silko's Almanac of the Dead is a good one (though I half-assed my way through reading it, but she's a fantastic writer). For the truly dedicated, Cao's Dream of the Red Chamber is perhaps the longest novel in history (17th century Chinese novel considered the first work of true fiction written in China spanning 5 volumes of lengths between 300 and 600 pages). It might sound off, but the most daunting things I've ever read content-wise were things like the Diamond Sutra and the teachings of Zen Masters like Lin Chi. Going in depth with them was just as mind-blowing as reading guys like Derrida.

[Animalhill]

Proust is ok, though the stuff I've read never got me excited enough to want to read a full novel by him. If we're talking daunting page-wise, Leslie Marmon Silko's Almanac of the Dead is a good one (though I half-assed my way through reading it, but she's a fantastic writer). For the truly dedicated, Cao's Dream of the Red Chamber is perhaps the longest novel in history (17th century Chinese novel considered the first work of true fiction written in China spanning 5 volumes of lengths between 300 and 600 pages). It might sound off, but the most daunting things I've ever read content-wise were things like the Diamond Sutra and the teachings of Zen Masters like Lin Chi. Going in depth with them was just as mind-blowing as reading guys like Derrida.
I feel like Eastern philosophy is almost impossible to comprehend given the Western way of life. I may give it a try though.

[fishingthe_sky]

I feel like Eastern philosophy is almost impossible to comprehend given the Western way of life. I may give it a try though.
It definitely worthwhile, but it's something that you need to really invest a lot of brain power in precisely because of that reason. The Western concepts of self and identity are the biggest obstacles to get through when reading Eastern things.

[Animalhill]

It definitely worthwhile, but it's something that you need to really invest a lot of brain power in precisely because of that reason. The Western concepts of self and identity are the biggest obstacles to get through when reading Eastern things.
Exactly the experience I have encountered. Maybe I will revisit it once I have more time on my hands.

[fishingthe_sky]

Exactly the experience I have encountered. Maybe I will revisit it once I have more time on my hands.
I was a religion minor in college (not religious, happened sort of by accident), so I was lucky enough to have a professor who is big in the Eastern Philosophy world (one of the most progressive Westerners when it comes to Daoism), but it's not something you can't uncover on your own. It's worth it for anyone who likes to be mentally challenged (which I know you are).

[Animalhill]

I was a religion minor in college (not religious, happened sort of by accident), so I was lucky enough to have a professor who is big in the Eastern Philosophy world (one of the most progressive Westerners when it comes to Daoism), but it's not something you can't uncover on your own. It's worth it for anyone who likes to be mentally challenged (which I know you are).
You have peaked my interest sir. Any recommendations on where to begin?

[fishingthe_sky]

You have peaked my interest sir. Any recommendations on where to begin?
For Buddhist, the Diamond Sutra is a good place to start. It's not very long, and has a lot of things conceptually similar with many forms of Buddhism. For Zen, I'd say the teachings of Master Bankei is probably the easiest read (if you can find it, the book is called "The Unborn"). For Daoism, the Dao De Jing is an obvious start, but I'd also recommend the Zhuangzi. It's almost as old, and just as respected as the DDJ, and is more story ortiented, rather than "musing" oriented.

[happygilmoreat]

I actually liked the movie better (not by too much though), but the book is still a great and fascinating read. I need to reread it to be honest.


Yeah I'm like 4-5 chapters in and I'm really liking it so far. I like how they explained that the bus was there for a reason and how the hunter found him. Just more detail into the story.

[Tambourine]

I read The Picture of Dorian Gray last night. That was...amazing.

Just bought Catch-22 today. Haven't read it in months. One of my favorite books. Heller is a great author, IMO.

I bought this last night and am reading it for the first time. It's great so far.

[hailthewarrior]

Currently reading "Good Omens."

[cheezwhiz]

I just finished reading The Stranger by Camus and I feel like I'm missing something. The way people talked about it, I thought it was going to be an eye-opener. I was fine throughout the first 3/4 but the end killed it for me. It seemed.. I don't even know how to describe it. It didn't fit with the book in a sense, like the feel of it? Regardless, I was disappointed. I'm reading Brave New World now, and one of the Einstein biographies.

[Indoor Living]

I read The Picture of Dorian Gray last night. That was...amazing.



I bought this last night and am reading it for the first time. It's great so far.
Yeah, it's a great book. Apparently the movie is pretty good too.

[Tautou107]

Just picked up Kafka's The Metamorphosis.