kkunker's 2011 book challenge

Hello everyone,

I’ve been an LT member for several years but have mostly kept to myself. I recently joined Goodreads and decided to do a book challenge for 2011. I started at 50 books, but have already upped it to 75. I figure it makes sense to cross-post the books here on LT too. I’m new to the whole joining groups and posting thing, but figure I’ll give it a go. So please be forgiving to any mistakes I may make.

A little bit about me: I’m a history and library science grad student, so part of my books will reflect class reading. My favorite time period to study is the Middle Ages. I’ve also had the chance to study in London as part of my undergrad and I’m a big fan of the UK; books relating to history, geography, and by famous people. I’m a big fan of Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, and Brian Jacques. I tend to read fantasy and sci-fi in my free time. As classes start up this week I have no idea how busy I will be. I’ll attempt to occasionally update this thread when I get a chance; but I’m not making any promises that it will be all that frequent.

Here’s a partial list of what I’ve read so far this year:
1. At the Queen’s Command by Michael Stackpole
2. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
3. Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins
4. Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins
5. The Ash Spear by G. R. Grove (e-book: member giveaway)
6. Pryderi’s Pigs and other Poems by G. R. Grove (e-book: member giveaway)
7. Soul Tattoo: A bilingual edition by Isaias Doleo Ochoa (e-book: member giveaway)
8. Wizard’s First Rule by Terry Goodkind

And to finish off, three of my favorite book quotes:
“I cannot live without books.” Thomas Jefferson
“When I get a little money I buy books; and if I have any left I buy food and clothes.” Erasmus
“You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to satisfy me.” C. S. Lewis

Welcome! Nice list of books.

Here’s the rest of the books that I’ve read so far:
9. Spin the Plate by Donna Anastasi (e-book: member giveaway)
10. The Crusades A Very Short Introduction by Christopher Tyerman
11. The First Crusade: A New History by Thomas Asbridge
12. A Most Holy War: The Albigensian Crusade and the Battle for Christendom by Mark Pegg

I'm currently reading Pathfinder by Orson Scott Card.

Welcome to the group!

We have an introductions thread here : http://www.librarything.com/topic/104688 if you care to stop by.

Thanks for the link. I'll head on over and introduce myself.

I love that Jefferson quote, and I studied history while abroad in London too - toiled at the National Archives while taking a few classes with the professor from my university leading the group. Were you based at a London university, though?

Welcome to the 75ers!

A group of student’s from my college went over and lived and studied together. We were not based at one university. I took two classes at the London School of Theology, one class at the London Institute of Contemporary Christianity, and one course from a professor at my home college. Three classes taught by London based professors, one taught by a professor from home.

13. Pathfinder by Orson Scott Card

I haven't posted a review on the thread yet but thought I would post the one I just wrote on this book.

5 stars
I enjoyed this new book by Mr. Card. I'm not very familiar with his writing, I've only read Ender's Game, but I'm sure I will read more of his books when I get the chance. The way he approached time travel was different from what I've seen in other books, and he made it work rather well.

Three characters have different abilities, Rigg is the Pathfinder, he can see everyone's past motion. Umbo can slow down time (or speed someone up) depending on how you look at it. And Param can turn invisible by flickering forward in time every couple of seconds. When they combine their abilities in different ways, different results happen.

Each chapter begins with a short separate section; which over time the reader discovers is the history of the planet Garden, where Rigg's and co. live. It took a while to figure out why that section was there but it was a necessary part. I'm not sure if it could have been done any other way, all the discussions of time and space travel seemed a bit confusing at times, but eventually it made sense.

Mr. Card developed a complex world, with unique and engaging characters. I'll definitely look forward to the next book, and perhaps it's time to read some of his other books while I wait.

I hope to read Pathfinder one of these days, but my favorite book by Card is Enchantment... a bit of fantasy, a bit of time travel, and a bit of Russian mythology. Great book.

Hi! So what did you think of Wizard's First Rule? I read the series a couple of years ago, and I'd be interested to hear how you liked the first book.

@ dk_phoenix: I'll have to read Enchantment when I get a chance, I just looked it up and it seems like something I may like. I'll add it to my every growing list of TBR books. Thanks for the suggestion.

@ scaifea: I really liked Wizard's First Rule. Though I have to admit I'm coming to the series having first seen the tv show Legend of the Seeker, which is based on the books. The show only had two seasons but it got me interested in the books. Seeing the differences between screen and paper has been interesting, as I would typically read a book before seeing a show/movie; but this time I'm doing the opposite.

I like that it's part of a long series of good sized books, which means it will last me a while. I liked the world that Goodkind set up, the confessor abilities seemed really creative to me. I'm a medieval history fan who likes fantasy so anything with swords, magic, and a good plot are likely to interest me. I do prefer characters which are upright, humble, and courageous, as opposed to greedy, self-serving evil characters; so Richard and Kahlan work well. I knew I disliked Darken Rahl from the tv show but reading about other stuff that he did definitely added to his villain status. I plan on working my way through the rest of the series as I have time; since the semester just started serious reading will probably have to wait til summer.

Card is very hit or miss for me - I've been eying Pathfinder curiously, so it's good to see a review!

His other take on time travel - Pastwatch - is really interesting and is one of those books that stuck with me for years and years because of the ideas in it.

I have not read Pathfinder yet although I loved Pastwatch. I really need to get to that book!

#12: Glad to hear that you liked it. I agree that Richard and Kahlan are great characters, and I think that Goodkind's writing can at times be a little slow, but I still thought that the good definitely outweighs the bad with this series. Another thing I really like about fantasy series is that you can really get attached to the characters, but then once it's over, of course, it's always a little sad. I didn't watch the TV show, because I didn't want to confuse the images I have in my head about what the characters look like - silly, no?

@ scaifea: I understand the not wanting to get characters confused between text and screen. Once a movie is watched the mental images from the text alone are hard to maintain. I'm sure that once I get further along in the series, and the characters develop beyond what I saw on screen they will become easier to seperate in my mind.

14. The Battle: The Adventures of Jecosan Tarres by Laura Lond (ebook: member giveaway)

This book is the final book in a trilogy. I’ve not read the other two books, but the plot was easy enough to jump into. The story follows Jeco as his adventure comes to a close. A king is deposed and runs for his life, Jeco and his friends are declared outlaws, a war is begun by the illegitimate regent, and both good and bad supernatural forces are involved. I enjoyed the book, and it was a pretty quick read. The characters were enjoyable, the religious aspects understandable and not too heavy, and some characters find redemption and re-acceptance in the end. Overall a nice read.

15. Saracens: Islam in the Medieval European Imagination by John Tolan

here's a brief summary/review:

Saracens by John Tolan provides a good introduction to the literate medieval person's mindset. Most literate people in the Middle Ages were religious leaders, so the majority of the sources he cites are church leaders. Tolan introduces Isadore of Spain, a theologian who had three categories for non-Christians: Jews, pagans and heretics. Isadore’s typology was taken as truth for early medieval Christians and they spent much time and energy trying to force Islam to fit one of the pre-existing molds.

Once Islam conquered Spain in 711 Western Europe began to pay attention, and saw Islam as a new religious threat to be refuted. Fear of the 'other' was added to half-truths and misperceptions leading to an Islam that was distorted by church leaders. Muhammad was portrayed as a trickster, false prophet and a practitioner of black magic. Even with the best minds of the times trying to refute Islam through conventional means they were more often than not unsuccessful. Franciscan and Dominican missionaries went to Spain, North Africa, and the Holy Land in attempts to either gain a martyrs crown and a heavenly reward (typically Franciscan) or gain converts through special schooling and training in order to dialogue with them (Dominicans).

Christian leaders became disillusioned as missionary attempts failed, and as crusade after crusade failed to gain permanent possession of the Holy Land. Islam did not fit into their nice little categories; and finally some scholars began to accept it as a separate religion. Hostility continued to rise as Christian’s vilified Islam and the centuries old stereotypes persisted in later arguments. The tensions and rivalries founded by misrepresenting a new religion have impacted future generations down to our own day.

#18: I will have to look for that one!

I'm in a graduate history class on the Crusades this semester, so a number of my books for the next couple of months will reflect course readings. As I read these books I'll try to post short summaries/reviews for those folks who may be interested in the topic. The book I'm currently reading for next week's class is Western Warfare in the Age of the Crusades by John France.

The Tolan book is going on my wishlist too. That class sounds amazing - I'll definitely be waiting to hear your reviews of other texts from the course!

#20: That one looks good to me too. I can tell your thread is going to be dangerous to the BlackHole!

16. 1776 by David McCullough

I enjoyed reading 1776. I like studying the American Revolution, and I finally got around to reading this book. 1776 was a fast read for me, I knew the events that unfolded, but McCullough kept me reading. The sections of illustrations were a good touch; seeing faces for the key players and some maps/paintings of locations helped make the events more realistic.

I knew that towards the end of the book Washington would cross the Delaware and make the surprise attack at Trenton; but I still eagerly awaited the events. I especially liked the section about Henry Knox's successful trek from Fort Ticonderoga with the guns that broke the British occupation of Boston; having written a paper on the fort last year. Seeing Washington's struggles and successes from a different angle was informative; and how he rallied the troops on a number of occasions made me wish I'd been there in person. All in all a good popular level history of the events of 1776.

I will say that if you are interested in a more in-depth book or are more interested in military history David Hackett Fischer's Washington's Crossing would be an excellent choice. I'm a fan of military history, and read Fischer a couple of years ago. From what I recall he was more detailed with maps, troop movements and other military things.

#23: I have already read 1776, but I will take your recommendation of the Fischer book. Thanks!

Hi. I enjoyed your review of Saracens - I have just recently become interested in the topic of religion in the Middle Ages, so I will look for this book.

I'm a big fan of David McCullough, so I hope to get to 1776 sometime soon!

17. The Long Ships by Frans G. Bengtsson (2010 SantaThing)

My santa picked out a great book. This was right up my alley.

The Long Ships is a Viking saga of the highest order. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I've read some Viking era history and fiction and found this book to be quite accurate to how I imagined the period. Red Orm is a likeable character and I couldn't wait to see how his story ended. The four parts of the book made for good dividing points and good breaks in the story line.

summary/review
Orm is captured during a raid when a young man and forced to row on a Viking ship to take the place of the man he killed. Once he becomes accepted by the crew his ship is captured by Muslim pirates and he is becomes a galley slave. Eventually he is released and entered the service of Almunsar of Spain, as a member of his personal bodyguard. When an opportunity arises Orm and his remaining crewmates escape and return home as rich men, with weapons and gold. For a time he enters the service of King Harald, and he even goes to England as part of an invading force. Towards the end of the book he travels to Kiev on a quest to recover a lost trove of Bulgar gold.

As a Viking tale there is plenty of sailing, rowing, plunder, sword fighting, romance, and religion. The religious context interested me a lot; since I'm in a class on the Crusades and just read Saracens. Orm is transformed from a young boy believing in traditional Northern gods, to a valuable soldier for a Muslim world leader; and finally became a Christian in order to marry. He followed Allah when it benefited him and when he was in "Allah's waters" and later when he tries to convert his friend to Christianity he mixes up his theologies. He became an off the cuff Christian, and decided that Jesus made him lucky. As the book progresses he has a priest as a best friend and doctor, but he doesn't force Christianity on his friends. He builds a church but still held on to many of the old ways.

In conclusion, to echo Chambon's introduction "it is really good." I was swept up in the tale and felt like a shipmate on board ready for an adventure. I wish Orm had more adventures so that the book would have lasted longer. Definitely one I'll return to again, when I'm in the mood for a familiar favorite.

The Long Ships sounds really good - it's going on my wishlist.

I already have The Long Ships in the BlackHole. I really need to bump it up!

18. Western Warfare in the Age of the Crusades

I know it's kind of long but here's my review/summary as promised. (I'm also the first person on LT to review the book. Yay!)

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Western Warfare. One of my favourite periods of history to study is Medieval Europe and I like medieval arms and armour. So France’s book was a great addition to my limited knowledge on the topic.

France’s main angle is to present the centrality of landholding to medieval society and warfare. With no kingdoms in existence local lords and nobles were in charge of their own lands and had to possess the strength and resources to maintain their land. Kings existed but their power was very limited and often they were on equal footing with their wealthiest vassals. Land was divided into tiny fiefdoms and any one noble had control of several areas, often spread out and not adjoining areas. Each noble typically owed vassalage to multiple lords, in a complicated web of alliances. For instance a count could give homage and support to both the King of France and the King of England and think it perfectly normal.

The nobles built castles and fortifications to act as defensive posts, but also as offensive posts to attack a neighbor. Medieval warfare tended to occur on a very small scale, raids and ravage and small skirmishes occurred far more often than large scale pitched battles. In pitched battles mounted troops, the knights and sergeants, always worked best when combined with large numbers of infantry. Sieges were the common tactic employed. Nobles tried to avoid bloodshed if possible and achieve victory through intimidation or treaty.

France includes chapters on the slow and uneven innovations in weapons, armour, and siege engines. Some localities advanced faster than others, and it took a long time for any one technique or improvement to become common practice. He overviewed the changes to castles and fortifications, from dirt mounds with wooden structures to small stone structures, to the huge sprawling city-defending castles with huge protective walls, like the Edwardian Conwy Castle in Wales. Initially kings were the only ones with the wealth to build in stone but eventually the nobles could afford modest stone structures as well. He also has chapters on the development of cavalry, infantry, the confusing use of mercenaries, and the necessary qualities in a good military commander.

In the final chapters he outlines how the European mindset fared and adapted to warfare in the Middle East during the Crusades. Cavalry became more central in the Holy Land, as much land was desert, there was limited water, and much distance to cross between locations. The First Crusade fared so well, in France’s estimation, because the troops had had a long walk through Europe and Asia Minor and had actually managed to form a high level of cohesion, as compared to most medieval military expeditions. The huge force was governed by a council of lords, each strong and trusted by their men. The common goal of Jerusalem, mixed with shared suffering along the way, helped forge them into a united group. Granted there were still problems and bickering, but compared to other small scale military endeavors of the time, the fact that they succeeded in reaching their destination and had a successful mission owes much to the cohesion that developed. Some of the European “codes” of warfare were carried over into the Middle East, such as ransoming the aristocracy.

I only have one semi-negative thing to say. France doesn't deal with ideology at all. He can't explain why people went on the Crusades. Which given his emphasis on land makes sense. There would be no reason for nobles to leave their land undefended and go thousands of miles away to fight in enemy occupied land to try and free Jerusalem. Saracens gave a good intro to ideology, so I would suggest that book for an ideological context.

In summary, during the Middle Ages Europe was a land governed by warfare. The landowners fought to defend their holdings and expand their territory and influence. Wealth was measured in land, so the families with the most land were the richest. They could afford the best weapons, horses, weapons, and could hire the most troops to fight for them. Though existing sources are rather sparse France used what was available and provided a good introduction to the topic of medieval warfare.

#30: Nice review!

19. The Christian Atheist: believing in God but living as if He doesn't exist by Craig Groeshel

A book whose chapters cover many typical actions or mindsets of people who call themselves Christians, but who aren't living correctly and fully for God. It had some good thought provoking stuff, but some other chapters weren't as personally applicable. Parts of it would probably benefit a lot of Christians.

#32: I will look and see if my local library has that one. Thanks!

20. What were the Crusades? by Jonathan Riley-Smith

First review posted on LT for this book.

3.5 stars
review/summary:

Jonathan Riley-Smith’s book provides a very brief glimpse into the world of the Crusades. He gives a general definition from period sources as to what contemporaries thought crusades were. Participants were called to “take the cross,” answer a legitimate call made by the Pope, told to go either abroad or remain closer to home to fight a “just war” against the enemies of Christendom. Participants knew they would be granted special privileges in return for their devout service.

Riley-Smith’s whole book stems from this definition. In the next chapter he defined a just cause and summarized “just war” in the medieval mindset. He then stated that the Pope was the only authority who could declare a crusade; God’s representative on earth alone had the power to declare holy war. The fourth chapter gives a basic outline of what type of people tended to go on crusades, and the final chapter breezed through the topic of the difficulty in dating the crusades.

Riley-Smith did give some examples of crusader ideology. Unlike John France who couldn’t explain why crusaders went, Riley-Smith does provide reasons, primarily religious in nature. The concepts of the indulgence and absolution of sin through taking the cross was explained in enough detail for those unfamiliar with the concept to be able to understand it. The different levels of vows and varying durations of vows were clearly detailed and differentiated. This book dealt fully with the Western European’s view of crusades, and did not take the Muslim perspective into account; though given the books shortness of length this is understandable.

The chapters that involved papal authority and guidance were solid. Riley-Smith showed the difficulties popes and their representatives had to face in raising armies and financing them. The section dealing with the uncontrollability of a crusader army once unleashed, for example during the Fourth Crusade, show the challenges of trying to be the spiritual leader of an exhibition while being thousands of miles away really doesn’t work out well.

While Riley-Smith’s book does provide some very general overview material on the crusades, I thought that the book was too brief. It is an introduction, and perhaps to someone with absolutely no knowledge of the crusades it could be beneficial. This book barely scratched the surface of crusading history. Riley-Smith’s book focused on the ideological underpinnings to the crusade mindset, which are necessary to understanding the crusades; but I think parts of the book could have had a stronger and more in-depth presentation.

This book dealt fully with the Western European’s view of crusades, and did not take the Muslim perspective into account
I am presently reading Grave Goods by Ariana Franklin. One of the main characters is a Saracen who points out that the Arab version of the Crusades is very different from the European/Christian version. There are so many events in history that are similarly skewed.

The Crusades A Very Short Introduction

I know I read this one earlier, but we just discussed it in class, so I'll post my review now.

4 stars
review/summary

Tyerman’s short introduction to the crusades provides a brief overview of the events and major theatres of the crusade, at the same time he relates detailed specifics and anecdotal stories. I enjoyed reading his book, and found it to be a good balance of detail with general broad definitions. One of Tyerman’s reasons for writing the book is to correct many of the images that people have in their minds of the “crusader.” He debunk's the Romantic views, armoured knights were not riding around on horses defeating every foe they came across. He also dispels the lust for plunder; younger sons were not running off to the Holy Land to make their fortunes. Most people who 'took the Cross' invested huge sums of money and resources to be able to make the trip. Crusading was not a get rich quick operation. He is very careful to stress that religious devotion and penitential aspects were the main motivations for Europeans to go on crusade, either in the Middle East, Spain or the Baltic.

Tyerman gave a nice brief outline of what happened in each of the major Crusades, categorizing them by geographic locations. The timeline and subject jumps around a bit, but isn’t that hard to follow. I’d recommend this book to anyone who wants to get a basic understanding of what happened in the Crusades. Tyerman did a good job of making the Crusades understandable and he did a good job of undoing some negative but persistent stereotypes that have existed for a while.

I’ve read a couple of books in the A Very Short Introduction series and these books seem to be relatively short, easily accessible, yet detailed and specific enough to give the reader a general understanding of the topic. They aren’t so vague that you come away without learning anything; but they aren’t extremely dense and detailed that you get lost. They are meant to be read by anyone. In my opinion Tyerman does just that.

36 (kkunker): Thanks for this review. I recently picked up a couple of Very Short Introductions about topics that I want to know something about, but don't care enough to read 500 page books.

@ qebo: I have found the few VSI books that I've read to be nice quick introductions to topics. Some of the classmates criticized Tyerman for being too detailed for a novice, and tough to follow. I didn't think he was too difficult to read, I enjoyed the details.

21. The Landscape of History by John Lewis Gaddis

This was a required textbook for an undergrad class that I audited, which I didn't manage to read at the time. I finally got around to it. I liked the book, even though Gaddis uses tons of metaphors to try and get his point across. Parts of it were tough to get through just because of the technicality when comparing history to the sciences, and I found some of the more philosophical sections to be a struggle to get through. Some of the metaphors seemed spot on, and I enjoyed his use of the painting "The Wanderer Above the Sea of Fog" by Caspar David Friedrick as a central metaphor. That one made sense to me.

Overall I enjoyed the book. I remember taking a lot of notes on the class discussion and found it really interesting, and I'm glad I read it.

#38: I will look for that one. Thanks for the recommendation.

Here's my review of The First Crusade by Thomas Asbridge, which I really enjoyed.

5 stars
Thomas Asbridge presents a very readable history of the First Crusade. As the subtitle states one of Asbridge’s central themes of the book is to show how the reactions to the First Crusade by Western Europeans, the demonizing of Islam and the exaltation of the successful crusaders, had a very negative impact on interfaith relations. At both the start and end of the book Asbridge highlights the transformation to Christian-Muslim relations as a result of the First Crusade. Throughout the book examples are given to show the fractured Islamic leadership, with centers in both Baghdad and Cairo, and to show the varying ways that crusaders and Muslims interacted in Asia Minor and the Holy Land. Asbridge makes the Islamic internal divisions and power struggle a central reason as to why the First Crusaders were able to be successful.

Throughout the book Asbridge provides a detailed account of the crusaders struggles and successes, he is able to transport the reader back to the events and show the human qualities of the crusader council. The military crusade leaders had to hold in tension the desire for penance and forgiveness of sins with the Western views of conquest and plunder. The spiritual piety of a pilgrimage had to be assisted by the military leadership associated with conquest. The council had to constantly weigh their actions against possible future retaliations, and against potential divine judgment. In some instances the leaders made truces and treaties with local Muslim leaders, and they even fought alongside Muslim allies if it was to their benefit. At one point during the crusade a treaty was reached with Cairo and peace established. As the Crusade unfolded inter-religious cooperation occurred more often than outright oppression and persecution.

The discovery of the Holy Lance, whether or not it was authentic, reinvigorated the crusaders during a dark hour. With the assurance of God’s blessing they were emboldened to attack and were able to defeat the Muslim host that had arrived to besiege them within the walls of Antioch. Some of the crusader actions are seen as contradictory to the modern reader, such as their actions following the brutal massacre and sacking of Jerusalem, when men attended a prayer service in the Holy Sepulcher still covered in blood and clutching their spoils.

Asbridge wrote a detailed and lively account of the First Crusade, and through the course of the book showed how Christian-Muslim relations began to deteriorate as time went on. As the memory of the events began to fade from the European’s minds their descriptions of the victories became more exaggerated and anti-Islamic. Muslims then began to take offense at the Christian’s boldness and their divine mandate ideology for control of Jerusalem. When Muslims united against the Christians the long bitter struggle for the Holy Land began. Westerners harkened back to the success of the First Crusade as a rallying point and as the justification for future crusades.

#40: My local library has that one! Thanks for the recommendation.

The First Crusade goes onto the wishlist - thanks!

#22. Reflections: Bilingual Poems for Pensive People by Haim Schneider (Member giveaway)

This is a collection of poems in both German and English. I don't know any German, but someone who is bilingual would get the most out of the poems. Thankfully only 2 poems were printed only in German, and only one was presented only in English. Perhaps the author found that too much was lost in translation, and so left them in the original. All the rest were bilingual, with the German on the left hand page and the English on the right.

The English poems were enjoyable. Most of the poems were less than a page long, some were only a few lines. They covered a wide range of subjects, from the mundane to the metaphysical. A few titles include: "Speculations on a Hospital Lawn," "Good Reason for Continuing to Exist," "Sabbatical," and "Universe." This collection was short, but it was a delight to read.

#23. Walden by Henry David Thoreau

#24. The Colleen Colgan Chronicles Book 1: Flowers from Cannibals by Richard Phelan (member giveaway, e-book)

review
4 stars
I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would. It's aimed for middle school readers but is a fine read for adults. It has some concepts which might be difficult for middle schoolers to grasp, but was easy enough to follow. Phelan packs a lot into a 225 page e-book. Cloning, human-animal organ combinations, time travel, a human communicating with animals, and cannibals are all in there.

The time travel bit was interesting, I am not good with physics so I just had to accept the explanation. At the end Colleen is confused by how someone in the future was using technology that, to Colleen, hasn't been invented yet. How had teh inventor known when to activate the time travel device unless someone came from the future to warn them? She finally decides it's "chicken and egg" like, and thinking too hard about it would not help things.

The part where Colleen discovers she can talk to animals reminded me a bit of Harry Potter in that she doesn't realize that she's no longer speaking English. The way her gift works is unique and works with many types of animals. The reader watches her frustrations as she struggled to master it.

Some of the content might be hard for young readers to grasp but the basic storyline is easy to understand and it has good qualities. The book has good themes of friendship, loyalty, trust, overcoming fears, and stopping bullies. In conclusion this book was a good read and I would recommend it to folks who like young adult sci-fi. I would be interested in reading future books in the series.

25. Jane Goes Batty by Michael Thomas Ford

review
4 stars
I received Jane Goes Batty as a part of LibraryThing member giveaway. I don't normally like vampire books, but the notion of Jane Austin, Lord Byron, and Charlotte Bronte all being vampires was interesting enough for me to enter. I was pleased to win and enjoyed the book. Here's my short review.

Though the second book in a series it was very accessible to someone who's not read the first book. I jumped right in and had no problem following along. I read it in less than a day. The book was a light, fun read. I was hoping Jane would succeed and reading about her running around trying to juggle her crazy life was rather entertaining. It's not a book with dark, evil, insane vampires nor was there wasn't much violence, which I appreciated.

At times Jane and Byron were hilarious and sarcastic, both with their recollections of the past 200 years and their critiques of modern culture. The book was fast paced and flowed very well, I like Ford's style. He used many literary references, old and new, and had his vampires as witty and upbeat. They mention Emily Dickenson right along with Twilight and has them critique modern reworkings of their famous works. It was refreshing and entertaining.

In conclusion, contrary to my usual critique of the recent vampire craze, this book was different. Violence and sex was not main themes, overall it was rather clean. It was engaging and kept me reading to the last page. A fun, light read for an afternoon. I am interested in reading the rest of the series.

26. The Second Crusade: Extending the Frontiers of Christendom by Jonathan Phillips

review
4 stars

The Second Crusade: Extending the Frontiers of Christendom by Jonathan Phillips provides a detailed overview of the events of the Second Crusade. He supports his subtitle throughout the book, and emphasizes that those who participated in this crusade did so in an attempt defend Christian lands from further invasions and in order to launch an attack to spread Christianity’s influence. He has chapters on all three theaters of war, and while he spends the most time on the French and German crusaders in the Levant, the shorter sections on Spain and the Baltic are no less interesting or detailed. The successes in Spain were nice to read about after the resounding defeats in the other theaters.

The Second Crusade was launched after the fall of Edessa, initially only to defend the Levant. Pope Eugenius and Bernard of Clairvaux were the strong ecclesiastical supporters behind the new crusade. The pope issued bulls, at different times, to advance crusades on all three fronts. Even when Bernard went ahead and proclaimed the crusade in the Baltic without official backing Eugenius was quick to support the move. The first bull Quantum Praedecessores called for a new crusade based on the successes and tradition of the First Crusade, the familial duties of sons to follow their fathers, the need to help the Eastern Church, Divine authority, and it appealed to the Western knight’s honor. The pope promised remission of all past sins as the reward for the faithful. A strong network of religious leaders across Europe helped to spread the word: the pope, legates, abbots and bishops. They came from a combination of Cistercian, Cluniac and Benedictine backgrounds.

The crusading armies under Conrad and Louis set out with high hopes for success. They were following their fathers in a holy war to defend Christ’s homeland. They thought that nothing would be able to stand against them. When they moved beyond Byzantium they were shocked at the difficulties they faced. The Germans were defeated and turned back to safer lands, when the French arrived they pressed on. The crusaders were overconfident and met with defeat after defeat. Finally they gave up and men returned home broken.

In the Baltic the crusaders found that it was easier to follow their old habits and accept tribute from the pagans rather than giving them the choice between conversion or destruction. The situation in the Levant had changed since the First Crusade and the Muslims were a far stronger opponent. They were more united and experienced at fighting Europeans. The Baltic crusading had not brought forth any fruit, only in Spain were any positive advances made.

The crusaders had set out with high hopes and expectations but returned to Europe defeated and destitute. Back in Europe the leaders struggled to understand the defeat and justify why they had been unsuccessful. Pope Eugenius seemed crushed by the seemingly needless loss of life and expense that had been brought upon the Europeans. Bernard tried to call another crusade to rally from the defeat. Perhaps the goal of trying to extend Christendom on three separate fronts was too idealistic and difficult to succeed.

#27. Hester: a Novel by Paula Reed

review
4 stars

Normally I'm rather hesitant about reading books that are modern sequels or retellings of classics. I do often wonder "what happened next" when I finish a book, but don't want classics ruined by unqualified modern authors. However, Reed's book far exceeded my expectations, she did a very good job. When I saw Hester posted as a giveaway on Goodreads and read the description I decided to enter. I was delighted to win and was excited to read the book.

This book was really quite good. I haven't read the Scarlet Letter in years, but I remembered the storyline well enough. I felt like Reed did a good job of keeping the book historically accurate to the Commonwealth period, given my limited studies of the time period.

The storyline was truly enjoyable, Hester's ability is portrayed as both a blessing and a curse. She fled the New England shame and distain in order to make a better life in England. However once she returns people are unsettled by her ability and she is still an outsider. Seeing her get thrown into politics and the ruling circles of England and her struggles to learn to leverage her ability to her advantage was an interesting process. Imagining a woman having such influence with Cromwell and King Charles II made for an unusual contrast to all the other submissive, austere Puritan women Hester was surrounded with. Watching Pearl grow up and eventually make her own life was both exciting and bittersweet.

Reed got inside the heads of her characters and made the reader invest in the outcome. Hester, Pearl, Mary, Robert and John were all shown as humans who made their choices and then were forced to deal with the consequences of their actions. I really liked this book, and I feel like I understand Hester and the situations in Commonwealth England much better. I'm not sure if Hawthorne himself would approve of the book, as there were many premises that had to be accepted for the book to be believable, but for me this book made The Scarlet Letter more accessible. I'm pretty sure I will be re-reading it in the near future.

This past week was winter break, so I've been able to take a break from academic books and read some fiction. Here's the recent books I just finished.

#28. Lost Tales of Mercia by Jayden Woods (e-book)

A collection of 10 tales which were originally released online individually, all of which are based on bits of the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle. They compliment the author's full book called Eadric the Grasper. They were good stories, interrelated to some extent but can be read and enjoyed individually as well.

#29. The Sorcerer of the North by John Flanagan
Ranger's Apprentice Book 5

I really enjoy this young adult series. The tenth book is coming out soon, so I realize I've fallen a bit behind, but it will be easy to catch up. They are quick reads. These books are fantasy set in a medieval world. Flanagan made a really interesting setting and I love his concept of rangers. Royal advisors in the fiefs, skilled bowmen, trained in tracking, horsemanship, forest survival, and the art of disappearing, and they are often the best messangers on tough or undercover missions. The series follows Will, and a couple of his friends in their respective fields, from a young apprentice to full fledged ranger.

#30. The Tales of Asha, Volume One: Tales of Death by Joseph Robert Lewis (e-book, member giveaway)

review
This was a good collection of short stories, set in India, but on an Earth with a different history from our own. It's similar enough to be recognizable, but has it's own twists. Though the stories all revolve around some aspect of death, they focus more on ghosts and unnatural events then on characters dying.

Asha is an herbalist and part of her story is told through her interactions with other people. The descriptions of nature and plants are fitting given her occupation, and her unique ability gives her an advantage in her field. The stories all blend natural events explainable events with myth and stories to make the problems seem supernatural, when most are simpler to solve. This collection has been my introduction to Joseph Robert Lewis, and I am interested in reading some of his longer fiction works. I would also enjoy reading more of Asha's tales in the future.

#31. The Papers of General Nathanael Greene Volume 1: 1766-1776

I've started reading his papers as research for a paper I will write this term. I enjoy reading primary sources from the American Revolution, the tone and style alone are fascinating. Some of his letters to John Adams, family members, and Rhode Island political leaders are really interesting. It's been fun to watch this small town blacksmith and merchant from before the war be transformed into a nation-minded military leader, a trusted friend to George Washington. Later during the war he becomes general of the southern division.

#32. Blackveil by Kristen Britain

The newest book in the Green Rider series, published last month. Once again I was swept away in Karigan's adventures and couldn't put the 650 page book down until I reached the conclusion. The characters all undergo trials and develop over the course of the book. Hurdles are overcome and new problems have emerged. The final paragraphs happened to be a nice cliff-hanger. Now I'm stuck waiting a couple of years before it will be resolved. Oh well, guess I'll just have to live with it, that's what I get for reading a series that's still being written. It's a good fantasy series and I really have enjoyed it thus far.

#33. The Fourth Crusade by Donald E Queller and Thomas Madden

summary (the full review is posted):
Fourth Crusade: The Conquest of Constantinople written by Donald Queller and Thomas Madden provides the reader with a detailed account of the events of the Fourth Crusade. The twists and turns that were taken in order for Pope Innocent III’s call for a crusade to have dissolved into the conquests of two Christian cities, Zara and Constantinople, are examined and discussed. The uncertainty and tensions present among the crusaders are evident. A sentence which summed up the overall themes of the book was “The Fourth Crusade lived and died by its contracts, oaths, and vows.” For Queller and Madden all of the troubles and difficulties that the crusaders faced came down to the Treaty of Venice, and the crusaders inability to uphold their side of the bargain and pay off their debts to the Venetians for the fleet.

Pope Innocent III found out firsthand the difficulties of controlling a crusade army once it was set loose. He wrote letters, threatened excommunication, and withdrew his official legate in attempts to stop the crusaders from disobeying. His words fell on deaf ears; the crusaders agreed to attack Zara to stall paying their debt, and justified it as attacking a rebel state which needed to be restored to its rightful ruler.

After the victori at Zara the youth Alexius (no age given, but he came off as a naive teenager) appeared with an appeal for help. He was a claimant to the Byzantine throne and wanted the crusaders to fight for him. He promised to pay off their debt. Long story short: once crowned he realized that he could not pay, eventually he was overthrown and killed. With the young Alexius dead the crusaders felt no remorse for attacking the city and the countryside to “pay themselves” off of the bounty of the Byzantine Empire.

During the campaign the crusaders twice attacked Constantinople, broke through the defenses, and three times parts of the city burned. Four emperors were crowned; the final Greek emperor escaped the city right after his coronation as the crusaders swept through the city. He established the Nicean Empire which lasted 60 years. During the sack of Constantinople all the churches and monasteries were cleaned of relics and anything of value, the Hagia Sophia was stripped bare. Once the crusaders had control they elected delegates to choose a new emperor. Baldwin of Flanders gained the most support and a Latin knight was crowned emperor.

The Fourth Crusade which was initially summoned to aid the defense of the Levant against Muslim forces had a very different outcome from those expected by the pope or even the secular leaders. They sacked two Christian cities and began the Latin Empire.

Just stopping by on your thread. I noticed you're beginning to make your way through the Papers of Major-General Nathanael Greene. I wrote my undergraduate thesis on him and his leadership in the southern theatre during the Revolutionary War. I was amazed at what I learned and greatly enjoyed reading his letters.

#34. Memoirs or Chronicles of the Fourth Crusade by Geoffrey De Villehardouin

A chronicle recalled many years after the crusades, by an influential and central participant. Geoffrey the Marshall was an envoy to the Venetians and a spokesman with Emperors Isaac and Alexius IV.

#35. The Templars by Piers Paul Read

A popular history of the military order of the Knights Templar. Provides basic background information for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam as the lead up to the Crusades. The foundation of the order is explained. The growth, expansion, and success of the order compose the bulk of the book, participation in crusades and politics in the Levant. The final section desribes the destruction of the order, brough about less than 200 years after it's founding. An interesting, quick read.

#36. The Paradise War by Stephen Lawhead

Book One in his Song of Albion trilogy. I've always been a fan of Lawhead, this is the first chance I've had to read this series. So far, I really like it. I look forward to reading the rest of the series soon.

Fascinating reviews of the various books about the crusades - thanks!

#37. The Merry Wives of Windsor by William Shakespeare

I've not read much Shakespeare, but friends of mine directed and acted in a college production of this play last week. I went to the performance and thought it would be best if I read it beforehand to have some idea of what was going to happen. I thoroughly enjoyed this comedy. Seeing plays actually performed live always helps them make more sense than just reading them on paper.

#38. The Siege of Macindaw by John Flanagan
Ranger's Apprentice Book 6

For my Crusades class last week I watched Terry Jones documentary "The Crusades." I realize it's not a book, but thought I would post a review for those of who have expressed interest in the Crusades.

The film provides viewers with a brief and humorous introduction to the events of the first four major crusades. Jones, of Monty Python fame, fills the film with facts, anecdotes, and British humour. The film is divided into four parts: Jerusalem, Pilgrims in Arms, Jihad and Destruction. Throughout the sections Jones provided good facts, easy to follow maps, and quotes by European and Arab chroniclers. He balanced the seriousness of the issues with lighter sections, such as rebuilding siege equipment, learning about medieval horses and armor, and trying to wade ashore in armor in order to copy Richard the Lionheart. When he’s walking on the road in imitation of a crusader he yells for the rain to be turned off, and the effects guy dutifully turns it off and he keeps walking in sunshine.

“Jerusalem” started off with the events of the First Crusade. “Pilgrims in Arms” provides some of the ideological and theological backgrounds to the Crusade, and includes some explanations by Jonathan Riley-Smith. Jones then outlined the Second Crusade. “Jihad” described the Muslim counterattacks that finally occurred as a result of crusader invasions and the antagonist Renauld of Antioch. The Muslims finally united and forced the Europeans to retreat to only a foothold at Tyre. The final section “Destruction” focused on Richard the Lionheart and Saladin, and the stalemate that occurred during the Third Crusade. The events of the Fourth Crusade are briefly overviewed at the end, almost as an afterthought.

The film is both educational and entertaining and has a good balance of the two. Jones interviewed Crusade scholars, mainly France, Tyerman, and Riley-Smith, and used their insight to support his views. For me, seeing some authors and hearing them speak, helped make their books more accessible. The barbarity and piety of medieval Christians are clearly shown. Jones visited the major crusader sites and helped the viewer get a glimpse of the difficulties the crusaders were up against, both the thick stone walls and the desert wastelands they had to cross.

There were a couple of events which were portrayed in ways that did not match up with some of the scholarly sources that I’ve read. Jones seemed to imply that the discovery of the Holy Lance was an immediate galvanizer that set the Crusaders on a suicide mission to break out of Antioch. Jonathan Phillips showed it as a slower, more rational process. Jones also had a very anti-Venetian stance in regard to the Fourth Crusade. He portrayed Dandolo as manipulating the crusader envoys intentionally, then stealing control of the army for his own devices when they could not pay the bill. That’s not how Queller and Madden portrayed him.

Terry Jones’ The Crusades does provide a historical portrayal of the Crusades. He made use of current experts and original eyewitness accounts to add validity and detail to the film. While he does perpetuate some negative stereotypes such as crusaders as a reckless mob, and by being anti-Venetian, overall the series seemed to be well researched. The sections with Riley-Smith helped explain the penitential aspects of crusader motivations, which the public might not be familiar with. The frequent uses of Tyerman and Riley-Smith would point curious viewers towards good sound scholarship for further details. In conclusion, Jones made a documentary which is accessible to all sorts of viewers, academic and popular alike. It’s funny and mostly factually accurate and if it has gotten more people interested in the crusades then it has been a success.

#39. The Crusades Through Arab Eyes by Amin Maalouf

review/summary
The Crusade Through Arab Eyes by Amin Maalouf provides a good introduction for readers who are interested in the Arab perspective of the Crusades. Maalouf allows the Muslim chroniclers to speak for themselves, often quoting them at length throughout the book. He provides plenty of context and factual details to ease the readers understanding; and manages to cover 200 years of history in 250 pages.

The book is divided into five sections, starting in 1096 with the first Franj invasions and concluding in 1291 with the fall of Acre and the expulsion of the last Franj forces from Palestine. Maalouf walks the reader through all the major leaders and events of the 200 year period. The Arab sources are sometimes complimentary of the Franj, but more often they denounce the enemies and pray to Allah for support to wipe out the infidels. The Arabs admitted that the Franj had military superiority but thought they were barbaric in other aspects. The Arabs initially did not understand the religious fanaticism of the Crusaders, and they had no way to combat the obsessive, almost insanely singlemindedness of the Crusaders (think First Crusade).

Reading this book will help readers correct some of their preconceived notions and Western prejudices. People may be surprised by what they discover. Discovering the Arabs views on the Crusades allows the reader to get a glimpse of the Muslim world and to begin understanding the complicated and often volatile times in which these event occurred. The Arab political scene was completely unsettled and their disunity was one reason why the Crusaders were successful in gaining a foothold in Palestine. The Crusades Through Arab Eyes provides readers with new insight into the Crusades by focusing on the Arab side of the story, which is often neglected by Westerners. Everyone has prejudices and their own versions of history, sometimes it is good to move beyond our comfort zone and see things in a new light. Maalouf alerted me to some of my own misunderstandings and helped me gain a broader view of history.

#40. The Gift by Brian Litfin (LT early reviewer)

review:
5 stars
I really enjoyed this book. I received The Sword as an ARC from LibraryThing about a year ago and was excited when I discovered I had won the second book in the series as well.

The Gift continues where The Sword left off, Teo and Ana have chosen exile in order to learn more about Deu and spread his word. They go to Italy across the mountains, and begin to learn the Talyano language. Eventually they end up in Roma meeting the Christiani "Papa," a man who survived the purges as a young boy and knows the most about Deu.

They go through many trials and hardships, make some new friends and discover some new enemies. Through it all their love and bond from their experiences unites them even when their relationship is strained. They realize just how much they don't know about Deu, but decide that their limited knowledge is enough to trust Him. They only have access to the Old Testament, and have many questions about the promised messiah and the suffering servant. At the end of the book they discover the New Testament, from an unlikely source, and begin to learn the rest of the Biblical story.

Great story line with good character development. Both Ana and Teo have spiritual struggles and grow through suffering. At the end of the book the Christiani seem to triumph, but the enemies from Chiveis and Roma unite against Ana and Teo. I can't wait for the next book to come out. I want to know what happens next to Ana, Teo and their friends.

I own The Sword but have not yet read it. Glad to see the follow up book is a good one too!

@ alcottacre
I really enjoyed The Sword. The whole premise caught my imagination: a series with a futuristic but medieval Europe caused by the devastation of WWIII and a global epidemic. Once Litfin had established the setting he was free to do whatever he wanted with speculative fantasy.

It's kind of humbling to see our modern society viewed as "The Ancients" by the characters, technologically advanced and mysterious but also corrupt and destructive. I'm not much of a linguist but seeing how Litfin uses languages is cool. With the localism and small kingdoms that sprang up different dialects developed, for example Chiveisan is not strictly French and Talyano is not Italian. Latin is the fluid tongue of the Ancients, a virtually dead language, and it's the language Teo's Old Testament is written in. As a scholar he had some comprehension of the language but learned a lot through the translation process.

I'd highly recommend Litfin's series to anyone who likes Christian fantasy.

I obviously need to dig up my copy! Thanks for the additional input.

#41. An Introduction to Archival Organization and Description by M. Fox

#42. Reconquest and Crusade in Medieval Spain by Joseph O'Callaghan

review
Joseph O’Callaghan’s book Reconquest and Crusade in Medieval Spain provides readers with an overview of military action in the Iberian Peninsula from 1063-1248. He outlined the constant struggle between Islam and Christianity for dominion of the area and successfully showed the complexities and difficulties faced by the Christian kings and nobles. As in the Levant, occasionally a Christian king would ally with a Muslim leader if it was temporarily beneficial. Many truces and treaties were signed between enemies in attempts to stall war, they were not always honored.

The genealogical tables for both the Christian and Muslim leaders provided in the book were a very good resource to have. O’Callaghan mentioned so many names, and the tables provided assistance in knowing who was who and when they ruled. Without the tables the reader is likely to get lost. The maps provided a good visual representation of where boundaries were and showed when territory changed hands.

O’Callaghan made a differentiation between Reconquest and crusade. Reconquest efforts occurred by the Christian kings for centuries as they fought to regain lands that were under Muslim control. Officially crusades only occurred when there was clerical support and backing which granted the crusaders specific rewards. Crusade activity generally was considered Reconquest activity, but not all Reconquest activity had crusade status. To the Christian kings, the exact status might not have mattered; they were fighting for the sake of Christianity to defeat the Muslims and enlarge their kingdoms.

O’Callaghan provides several chapters on general crusading issues as they related to the Iberian campaigns including warfare and tactics, the difficulty of financing crusades, and the involvement of the Church. The chapters provide an overview of the crusading process and would benefit readers new to the crusade era. However, more experienced readers may find these sections repetitive of other works. O’Callaghan closes each chapter with a brief summary, this seemed like a good way to pull the chapter together, restate the main themes, and prepare for the next chapter.

The final Muslim kingdom, Granada, fell in 1492. With its fall the Reconquest in Spain was finished and further expansion ideas were beyond Crusade goals. No new bulls were issued, but the Spanish and Portuguese still had strong Crusade mindsets. The peninsular Christians had spent 400 years fighting Muslims but finally were successful. In the Levant the Crusader kingdoms fell after a couple hundred years. In the end, the Iberian crusades proved to have brought about permanent changes and to have had the only lasting positive advances for Christendom.

Nice review of the O'Callaghan book. Thanks!

The Sword and The Gift sound interesting.

#43. Basic Research Methods for Librarians by Ronald Powell

class textbook
This book provides a solid overview for research methods for the library and information science field. The book covers such topics as: developing a research study, selecting a research and sampling method, various types of research, data analysis, and styles to follow when writing research proposals and reports. A rather dry read, but full of good information useful for information professionals

#44. The Organization of Information by Arlene Taylor

class textbook
The topics are pretty self-evident from the title. The book covered many good topics that any information professional should be familiar with. Chapter titles included: retrieval tools, history of organization of recorded information, metadata, encoding standards, system and system design, subject analysis, controlled vocabularies, and classification systems. Overall full of god information, provided overviews of many topics, and included many notes and suggestions for further readings.

#45. Archives and the Digital Library by William E. Landis

This book is a compilation of articles written by experts in the fields. The editors are from Yale University and the California Digital Library. The examples and case studies included tend to have a focus on California, but their conclusions are applicable to a broad audience. The articles cover technology developments, the digitization process, the advantages of partnerships for successful endevours, and the complexities of adapting to the digital age.

#46. The Northern Crusades by Eric Christiansen

4 stars

The Northern Crusades by Eric Christiansen presents a detailed account of the events of the crusades in the Baltic. In the Introduction Christiansen states, “This book is an attempt to describe the struggles waged round the Baltic from the twelfth to the sixteenth centuries in the name of Christianity, and to explain the part they played in the transformation of northern societies which took place at the same time.” He expands upon this purpose throughout the book, and draws the events back to the theme. He began the book with a look at the geography and native tribes of the Baltic area before the crusaders invaded. Several maps were included which assist the reader in understanding the frontier regions.

Christiansen embraces a broad definition of crusades; he doesn’t seem to consider a vow as a necessary part. His writing is very British, dry ironic humour in a narrative style. He didn’t have an overt thesis but he did state that the Northern Crusades are important for study because they brought about lasting permanent changes to the Baltic region. They helped Latinize the areas where crusaders and colonists lived. The first official crusade bull for North East Europe was issued by Pope Eugenius III in 1147. The strongest military order during the centuries of the Northern Crusades was the Teutonic Knights. They were founded in 1190, and became a powerful political and military force in Prussia, Lithuania, Estonia, and Livonia.

The Danes, Swedes, Russians, and Knights all were interested in expanding their territorial borders and in controlling trade rights in the Baltic region, which happened to coincide with the Church’s desire to converting the pagan natives. The political and military struggles for supremacy in the Baltic lasted for three hundred years, as Grand Masters, kings, nobles, and princes all tried to outmaneuver each other and dominate the region. Christiansen seems to have no problem with admitting that much of the so called crusader activity in the region was really much more economically driven. Sure, the Teutonic Knights said they were there to convert the heathen, but they really didn’t seem to mind if they all stayed pagan. It gave them a reason to exist, and a justified reason to fight. The crusading mindset lasted so long through a combination of local enthusiasm, occasional appeals to Rome for help, and by the grant of perpetual warfare given to the Teutonic Knights.

The Northern Crusades provides a very readable overview of the crusades in the Baltic. The political and religious complexities of the region are clearly described and the reader comes away with a very good understanding of the key events. Many kingdoms wanted to rule the frontier lands and they all provided themselves with justifications for conquest. The crusading mindset provided the justification for the formation of the Teutonic Knights. Their actions were important to the dynamics of the Baltic region and they had a hand in the events that occurred. Christiansen shows the Knights as a central piece of the Northern Crusades.

The Teutonic Knights came under criticism from Poland. They had stolen land, and were currently fighting fellow Christians, since most of the Baltic area had been nominally converted. They were also pretty keen on fighting Russians, since they were schismatics, but that didn’t seem to qualify as a crusade. The Northern Crusades came to an end when there was no more land to conquer and no more pagans to convert. The Teutonic Knights became secularized and they left the Baltic region a changed place. “The Baltic was still a Catholic lake in 1500, and the Baltic states were thoroughly integrated members of the Catholic family, two generations after the crusades had ended.”

Bottom line: very informative, a bit dry and tough to read but worth the effort.

That is an area of history about which I have NO knowledge--didn't realize there were any "crusades" in that area. I shall have to check out that book!

@ronincats: I had no knowledge about the Northern Crusades either, before reading this book for class. My professor knows that it's a less studied topic. I had heard of the Teutonic Knights but didn't know what they had done, and this book provided a nice overview of the struggles in the Baltic region. I also didn't know much about Spainish history either, other than just the word "Reconquista." This class has been really interesting and I'm so glad I took it. Glad my posts are helping some folks find new books to read.

Here's my review of A Most Holy War: The Albigensian Crusade and the Battle for Christendom by Mark Gregory Pegg

We just covered it in class this week.
This was one of my least favorite book for my crusades class. Pegg attempt to address misconceptions regarding the Cathar heretics and he makes a strong case that the Cathars never existed. He states that the twenty year long crusade in Southern France was a crusade against Albigensian heretics in a very specific geographic area. He has a very negative view towards past histories of these events, and he criticized the sources used in previous scholarship.

Pegg wrote that the Albigensian Crusade was a central event in the Middle Ages. It was the first time a pope called a crusade against Western Christians by declaring them heretics. Christians fought Christians, those who fought for the Pope were promised salvation and the heretics were killed for their unorthodox beliefs. It was a win-win for the Pope, he was able to bless an army to go kill his enemies, heresy was stamped out. Crusaders no longer had to travel to the Holy Land in order to receive absolution for sins; a campaign in France was an easier route to the same objective.

Some problems I had with the book:

While Pegg states that there was a “moral obligation for mass murder,” the Pope was not telling everyone to go to France and kill all the Frenchmen. There actually seemed to be some hesitation by the public to join this crusade, as Simon de Montfort had to resort to using mercenary armies.

Pegg also tries to link the Albigensian Crusade with Christ’s sacrifice on the Cross, and that those who fought fellow Christians were imitating Christ. I couldn't make that connection considering that Christ did not advocate violence, especially not against one’s co-religionists. The penitential aspect of crusades I understand. But comparing a crusade against supposed heretics as equal to Christ's sacrifice just didn't make sense.

Pegg also stated that, “The Albigensian Crusade ushered genocide into the West by linking divine salvation to mass murder.” He then went on to describe six narrow categories with which to define genocide so that it fits his concept of the Albigensian Crusade. Redemptive homicide against one’s heretical neighbor became acceptable crusade practice and added another enemy to the list of acceptable crusading targets.

The chapters where Pegg described the heretics and some of their practices might be difficult for some readers to follow. Those sections seemed overly repetitive and drawn out to ensure the reader got the point. Good men and women were named and their societal and religious practices were explained. Stylistically the rest of the book flowed rather well and the reader will not get slowed down even though there is twenty years of history to read through before the end.

Final thoughts:
Pegg provides a book which is easy to read and which sheds some new light on the subject of the Albigensian Crusades. The events were easy to follow, and motivations were explained. He provided sources which support his thesis but he did not utilize contradictory evidence. His personal disregard for past scholarship and inability to even attempt to remain unbiased in his writing, his emphasis on crusade as genocide, and his attempt to call the crusade an imitation of Christ detracted from the credibility of the book.

#47. Archives and Archivists in 20th Century England by Elizabeth Shepherd

This book provides a groundbreaking overview of the development of archives in England. The profession has been rather silent and slow to publish until very recently. This history by Shepherd is an excellent book in the difficult road that English archivists have had to walk on to get to where they are today. The book highlights the early involvement of government in organizing public archives, the immense diversity that existed as the profession developed over a century, with local groups and dynamic individuals leading the way. Shepherd shows how professional organizations gradually formed and formal archival education systems were established. Throughout the book she stresses the importance of key figures through the years and how without strong, innovative, dedicated leaders the English archival profession would not be what it is today.

#48. The Hawk and His Boy by Christopher Bunn (e-book member giveaway)

I enjoyed this e-book. It was a fast read, and the author left it with a cliff-hanger so now I want to read the next book. Good combination of magic, fantasy, world building, and character development.

#49. British Outlaws of Literature and History by Alexander L. Kaufman (Early Reviewer-March)

This was an excellent book. I throroughly enjoyed reading it. It is a collection of academic essays which feature many citations to other scholarly sources on the topics of outlawry and Robin Hood. As the title states it focuses on both historical people and fictional characters. The first section covers general outlaw definitions and examples, including many female outlaws. The second section focuses on Wales and Fouke le Fitz Waryn. The third and longest section focuses on Robin Hood. A good book for fans of Robin Hood, medieval society, and/or the UK.

#50. Robin Hood: The Early Poems, 1465-1560 Texts Contexts, and Ideology by Thomas Ohlgren

This book provides a detailed overview into the Robin Hood early manuscripts. Ohlgren has put much personal effort into studying the original poems and fragments, which are scattered across the UK, and has been able to shed new light on them. The first two chapters of the book deal with two early poems "Robin Hood and the Monk" and "Robin Hood and the Potter." Ohlgren provides detailed analysis of the poems histories, owners, and compiler/poets. He has been able to determine relatively exact dates for the writing/printing of these poems due to internal clues and individual marks and notes added to the documents. The third chapter explores some of the early printed editions of the poems, and the publishers who printed them. The final, and longest, chapter addresses the mercantile forces and references scattered throughout the poems. Guilds, rituals, and yeoman v. knightly behaviour are compared and contrasted. A dozen illustrations are included, mostly of the original manuscripts.

I would recommend it for fans of Robin Hood, medieval society, medieval poetry and manuscripts, and UK history.

Archives and Archivists in 20th Century England sounds really interesting! I work/volunteer at an archive in the UK, and I'd love to read that!

@ MarissaKings
I really enjoyed the book. I was lucky to have gotten it through inter-library loan. There are only 8 OCLC libraries in the US that have the book, and it's too expensive to buy just out of curiosity. It's probably easier to get a hold of in England. I'm studying to be an archivist and I'm returning to England in July for two summer courses so I thought reading this book would give me a good foundation. If you get a chance I'd say go a head and read it.

I've just checked, and my local university's libraries have several copies! I also looked on Amazon, and wow, that is an expensive book. Where are you going to study in July? I don't have any archival qualifications yet, and I'm thinking of enrolling with the University of Liverpool to do distance-learning.

I'm doing a program through the University of Southern Mississippi hosted at King's College London. We'll be based there but also do several trips to other archives/libraries/museums outside of London. The syllabus isn't finalized but we should get to Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon, Greenwich, and Edinburgh. It's partially lecture-based and partially hands-on experience visiting different types of cultural repositories.

That sounds amazing, I want to go on an archive tour of the UK! The Scottish National Archives building in Edinburgh is supposed to be beautiful - I've seen photos but have never been there. I'm guessing you're going to visit the Bodleian at Oxford? I used to work there, but now I'm at the Institute of Archaeology nearby. Have loads of fun on your trip, I'm very jealous!

Wow! What an opportunity! Have fun!

We will be going to the Bodleian when we visit Oxford. We should also go to the Scottish National Archives, we are in Edinburgh for a whole weekend and should visit several different sites. If I remember I'll try to put up a post or two here once I get back to mention the highlights.

#51. The Silver Hand by Stephen Lawhead

The second book in Lawhead's Song of Albion series is as good as the first. The characters continue to develop. This book is told from the perspective of Tegid, Chief Bard. The Isle of the Mighty is once again facing deadly foes, and Tegid and Llew are central to restoring balance to the land. The struggles that they undergo are harder than in the first book, but they perservere and triumph in the end.

#52. Halt's Peril by John Flanagan

Book 9 in the Ranger's Apprentice series
In this book Will faces his toughest challenge yet. Halt is struck down by a poisonous crossbow bolt and Will is forced to ride north to find Malcolm the healer. Horace watches Halt and both friends are left hoping an antidote can be found in time. Their endurance and patience is stretched to the limit as time runs out.

#53. The Outlaws of Medieval Legend by Maurice Keen

Even though Keen's book is not the most recent book on the topic, he still has some very good things to say. This edition republishes all his original material from the 1960's with a new introduction, explaining how some of his ideas have changed due to recent scholarship. This book is not a revision, just a reprinting. He has a chapter on outlaw ballads as an expression of peasant discontent, but has stated that he may have overstretched his conclusions.

However, his book is still good to read in order to gain a broad understanding of English outlaws, he focuses on Robin Hood, but mentioned several other outlaw poems as well. For me personally this was the first time I read an overview of the life of Hereward and the tales of Gamelyn. I've heard of William Wallace, but didn't really know anything about him. Keen also has a chapter on Eustace the Monk, one of the outlaws who can be tracked down and pinpointed to exact dates. These other outlaws received a chapter or two and Keen explored both the overlapping themes among them and explores the historical background which produced the tales.

His chapters on Robin Hood outline the fictional character and overview a few of the ballads. He notes how tough it is to try and find a historical Robin, and states that it may never be done. A few candidates have been put forward but they are all on shaky foundations and speculations. We know the rough century/century and a half in which the stories first began, so the original figure or figures who inspired them must have lived in the same period. Overall a good book if a little outdated by more recent scholarship. A good introduction to outlaw literature.

#54. Letters of John Quincy Adams to his Son

#55. The Burning Sky by Joseph Robert Lewis (member giveaway e-book)

I thoroughly enjoyed Burning Sky. Lewis wrote a really action packed book, full of many different characters whose paths all intersect in unexpected ways. They are all motivated by different beliefs, some are pastoralists, what we would call terrorists, some are law enforcers, and some innocent bystanders like the main character, the airship engineer who was in the wrong place at the wrong time.

The alternate history was cool. Lewis clearly knows history and was able to manipulate it to produce the world he wanted. A combination of technology is utilized including airships, guns, swords, bombs, trains, carriages, and electric batteries. There are a lot of fights, several terrorist attacks, and long distance chases.

Overall a really enjoyable book. I look forward to reading the rest of the trilogy. I've also read Heirs of Mars by this author, but I must say that Burning Sky was more interesting to me. Good plot, fast paced, a variety of characters and locations scattered across North Africa.

#71: I will have to look for that one! Thanks for the recommendation.

#82: I will look for The Burning Sky too.

The Scottish National Archives have a pretty building, but it isn't that exciting to visit unless you're actually archiving, I'm sorry to say. On the other hand, it's convenient to the Royal Mile, so not far out of your general touristy way. The British Library in London is absolutely and totally worth the visit though. Their permanent display is just wonderful.

Edinburgh itself is a fantastic city though. Visit the castle, it's one of my favorites! I'm jealous of your trip!

#56. Backlash by Aaron Allston
Book 4 in the newest Star Wars series

#57. Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer
I've never read all of the tales and so decided to finally do it. I enjoyed them.

I bought a copy of Chaucer at a library sale to lure my daughter into reading it. I told her that the movie "A Knight's Tale" was based on one of his stories. She's a huge fan of Heath Ledger.

#58. The Rogue Crew by Brian Jacques

This is the most recent Redwall book, and sadly the final one since Mr. Jacques passed away a couple of months ago. I love this series and was glad to discover that he had finished this book before he died. It has a good story line and an interesting combination of characters. Northern otters, Long Patrol hares and Guosim shrews unite to defend Redwall from the wearat and his ship which can sail on both sea and land.

#59. A Game of Thrones by George R. R Martin

I've only heard of this series because of the new HBO series. I started watching the show and got hooked on the series. I just ordered book 2 and I can't wait for it to get here.

# 60. Millennium Falcon by James Luceno

A Star Wars book all about the history of the Millennium Falcon. The book covers it's 100 year history including various owners, adventures, names, and upgrades that the beloved ship has experienced.

I still have not read any of the Redwall books. I keep saying I will, but then never seem to get around to them.

I am not starting the George Martin series until he sees fit to finish it :)

@ alcottacre: I would highly recommend Redwall to anyone who likes good solid children's/YA fiction with positive messages and good clean fun. I love Mr. Jacques style, and his characters were so lively. Not to mention the vast amount of time devoted to describing feast menus and drinks. He often made me hungry. I also appreciated that the series wasn't chronological, and most books could be read independently of each other. Though I would recommend Redwall itself as the best introductory book. He also wrote roughly one book a year, so the readers knew the basic schedule.

I picked up Kristen Britain's Green Rider series last year and the fourth book came out earlier this year, which meant I didn't have long to wait. Unfortunately the series is not over, and the cliffhanger ending to Blackveil was not enjoyable. I don't look forward to being stuck waiting around for years. So I understand the desire to hold off until Martin finishes the series. Having closure with a series is nice.

#89: I know my local library has most, if not all, of the Redwall books. I will give them a try soon.

I keep meaning to do a re-read of Redwall. I enjoyed them a lot when I was younger, but I think my childhood copies got donated in a cull I had at some point. I'll request the first few from the library at some point and see if they are as fun as I remember.

Would you recommend the Milennium Falcon book?

@ weejane: I'd recommed the Millennium Falcon to people who are fans of Star Wars. On the timeline this book falls 40 years after Episode 4, so if you've not read many of the books in between parts of it will not make sense. On the other hand one of the main characters is a Republic pilot and his story goes back to Episode 3.

The book involves a galaxy wide treasure hunt involving a Republic Era pilot of the Falcon, which happens at the same time as Han and Leia's search for the history of the ship. The pilot's search goes forward in time, while the Solo's search goes backwards, and eventually their paths cross. Anyone who loves the Falcon and has wanted to know more about it would enjoy the book.

I saw Mr. Jacques speak several years ago. He said that after he finished school he volunteered to read books aloud for blind kids. He was very disappointed in how little description the available books had and that's why his books are so full of description.

I think I remember seeing that somewhere. It makes sense. I love how descriptive the books are, they are so much more alive than a lot of other recently written books.

#61. Auralia's Colors by Jeffrey Overstreet

Book one in the Auralia's Thread series, this book introduces the reader to Auralia and other main characters. Auralia's unknown origins, spunky spirit, unorthodox behavior, and color-crafting ability threaten to turn House Abascar upside down. She gains friends and makes enemies as her ability is made known to the king.

#62. The Book of William: How Shakespeare's First Folio Conquered the World by Paul Collins

The first official book that I've read for my summer course in London. Though I'm a mild fan of the Bard, I really enjoyed this book. It's a combination of history, rare book/antiquarian, book auctions, and traveling the globe. Tracing the history and various owners of First Folios was really interesting. Learning about the stages in the works life, the different editions, publishers, and editors was cool. Once I started I couldn't put it down.

#63. The Broken Sword by Josephy Robert Lewis (e-book from member giveaway)

This is the second book in the Halcyon series, a steampunk alternate reality fantasy series. I won and read the first book a couple of months ago. This one was set in Espani (Spain) which is a frozen, snowy land with almost no technology. I enjoyed this book, the characters had good development, the plot moved along at a steady pace, and the change of geography from the first book was nice. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.

#96: Auralia's Colors looks like one I would enjoy. Thanks for the recommendation!

#97 - I think I would really like The Book of William! Thanks for the suggestion!

You are both welcome, I really liked both those books. I have the sequel to Auralia's Colors, Cyndere's Midnight towards the top of my TBR pile. I hope you enjoy the books. I'm currently reading a couple of London/UK related books and will be sure to post a short review when I finish them. I'm heading back to England in about three weeks.

#64. The Endless Knot by Stephen R Lawhead

Lawhead's conclusion to his Albion trilogy is a great read. The American Oxford student Lewis must once again defeat his one-time friend Simon's sinister plans in Albion in order to restore balance and preserve the existence of Albion and England. This book is darker than the first two as Lewis and his companions travel through the cursed land in search of their enemy. The Hero Feat is performed, and Albion is changed forever by the outcome.

#65. Hope for your Heart by June Hunt ( LT early reviewer)

A good devotional book dealing with the metaphor of Christ as our anchor, keeping up on course and holding people secure during storms. I learned a lot about physical anchors and their varying roles aboard a ship. The book includes some practical applications for the lessons presented.

#66. The Inklings of Oxford: C. S. Lewis, J. R. R. Tolkien, and Their Friends by Harry Lee Poe

An enjoyable quick read. Part picture book, there are tons of good photographs in the book, which show you exactly what the author is talking about. Good detailed information about the Oxford group which became the Inklings, and about other important people who interacted with them. The book includes a couple of maps and self-guided walking tours of the important highlights which any Tolkien of Lewis fan would want to see in Oxford.

#67. The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester

I read this book for the summer course I'm taking next month in England. This book focused on two individuals who were central to the creation of the Oxford English Dictionary, in the late 1800's. Professor Murray, an English linguistics professor and general editor of the project, and Doctor W. C. Minor an American Civil War veteran, who personally contributed thousands of definitions and supportive quotations. There were many twists and turns that led to their eventual meeting and friendship which lasted several decades. Murder, madness, and tragedy all played a part in this unusual and unexpected relationship.

I am not sure that I have read The Inklings of Oxford yet, so I will have to look for that one.

I really liked The Professor and the Madman. I am glad to see you enjoyed it.

#68. A Traveller's History of Oxford by Richard Tames

This was a great read. The author provides brief histories and snapshots of Oxford throughout it's long history. The foundings of many of the colleges and halls are explained, and the graduates and fellows often list like a Who's Who of the UK. Breakthroughs and innovations are highlighted, as are troubled times and hardships, such as after the Civil War. The growing pains and consolidations of the University are clearly shown. Overall a great introduction to the city and University of Oxford. The added sections on museums and various walking tours would be a real aide to anyone planning a visit to Oxford.

#101 - I read The Professor and the Madman many years ago and remember really liking it.

#69. Poems of the Great War: 1914-1918

An anthology of poems from around the world written about WWI. I really enjoyed it.

#70. London Rising: The Men Who Made Modern London

This book provides a detailed overview of the events in London from the 1640's-1720's. The lives of 5 men are the focus of the book: John Locke, Christopher Wren, John Evelyn, Nicholas Barbon, and Robert Hooke. The Civil War is shown as the backdrop which shapes the childhoods and mindsets of these men. The turning point of the book is the Great Fire of London; and the struggle to recreate the city and the nation. The book covers the reigns from King Charles II to King George I, the interactions between monarch, Church, and Parliament.

St. Paul's Cathedral becomes the main theme of the book. During the Republic it was abandoned and fell into decay. The Fire probably saved it from continued abuses, by partially demolishing it. Christopher Wren takes center stage as a founder of the Royal Society, astronomer, and architect. He is buried in the crypt beheath the cathedral and his epitaph is the perfect description of his life work: "Reader, if you seek his monument, look about you."

I'm currently finishing up A Traveller's History of London. I'm leaving for London tomorrow, and will be there for a month. I don't expect to be on LibraryThing much, and I have no idea how much I'll be reading. Look for an update when I get back.

Have fun! Have you been to London before? Make sure you see the Christopher Wren buildings in Oxford!

>105 kkunker: I'll definitely have to add #70 to my TBR list - one of the highlights of my recent trip to London was St. Paul's Cathedral, and I would love to read more about that time period. Enjoy your trip!

105: Oooh, London Rising is immediately added to my wishlist! I recently read The Clockwork Universe about the same time period and some of the same people (brief review here: http://www.librarything.com/topic/104898#2744362).

@106: I have been to London before, I spent a semester here during my undergrad. I'm so happy to be back again. We will visit Oxford next week, I can't wait. So far my class has visited The British Library, The British Museum, the Barbican Library, St. Paul's Cathedral Library, and the Museum of London.

@108: I'll add Clockwork Universe to my long TBR list. Thanks for the suggestion.

#71. Tolkien and C. S. Lewis: The Gift of Friendship by Colin Duriez

I really enjoyed this book. I'm a big fan of both Tolkien and Lewis and reading about their 40 year long friendship was great. Neither of them would have been the men they were without the other. Tolkien helped Lewis accept Christianity and Lewis constantly supported Tolkien's Middle Earth epic, even when Tolkien wanted to give up. The Inklings was their support group, and an area to experiment and voice new ideas. Duriez does a great job of making these literary greats into real human beings.

#72. Blood and Ice by Robert Masello

I received a free ARC of this book. Though I don't normally like vampire books, this one was interesting. It's set in both 19th C England (Eleanor and Sinclair) and present day Antarctica (Michael). Michael a photojournalist finds a pair of bodies trapped in ice while on a dive. The bodies are retrieved for study and once thawed unexpected things happen. Eventually the scientists come to the conclusion that the pair are not dead, and are in fact vampires. Several team members are attacked and Michael befriends Eleanor. He and his scientist friend eventually comes up with a cure for the vampires.

Did you visit The Eagle and Child while you were in Oxford?

#110: I need to get hold of the Duriez book. Thanks for the reminder!

@111 Yes I did get to eat lunch at the Eagle and Child. This was my second visit, and I really enjoyed it.

#73. The War Poets: An Anthology

I bought this little book at the Imperial War Museum. It's an anthology of 80 WWI poems. Several of the poets are famous, but there are also individual poems by poets I had not heard of. This is a good collection, with a variety of themes and angles addressed.

#74. The Boldeian Library: a Guide by Geoffrey Tyack

This book offers a brief introduction to the Bodleian Library, through short chapters and detailed images and photographs. Tyack was a Bodley Librarian and knows the buildings inside and out. I'm doing a research paper on the Bodleian for my summer course, and have found several good resources from the short bibliography. I can't wait to learn more about this important library.

Almost to 75! I hope you have a dandy picked out for that one!

@115: I'm reading several books right now, but I'll be sure to post a good one as my 75th. I know I'm a fast reader but I did not expect to finish the challenge this early. I know once the fall semester starts my pace will slow drastically. Still, I'm curious to see my total at the end of the year. Being part of the group has been fun. It's great to see what other people are reading.

#75. A Madness of Angels by Kate Griffin

This book is really good. It's been hailed as the Neverwhere for the Digital Age and I think it lives up to the comparison. Griffin has a way with words which is descriptive, engaging, and entertaining. Her descriptions of London are spot on, and her take on magic makes the story interesting. Urban magic is strong and powerful, and exists in different forms. Sorcerer Matthew Swift is able to unite several magical groups together in his fight against his old master: the Order, a cult whose members hate magic; the weremen, who can shift into multiple animals including rats, foxes, and pigeons; magicians who use traditional spells; and the bikers who can travel from A to C without going through B. No druids in this book, but given that it's set in downtown London, that makes sense, not enough nature around for their kind of magic.

Different parts of London have their own unique magic, and the laws cannot be broken. The Underground provides refuge for the magical with a valid ticket, the wishing fountain at Piccadilly Circus can save your life, everyone should be wary of the electric angels in the telephone wires, the turning of the tide in the Thames has cleansing properties, shadows can attack and hunger for life, and the Dragon of London will not be forced to act against its will. Magic and legend blend seamlessly with modern London as Griffin weaves an engaging tale.

Congratulations on hitting 75!

Thanks. I'm definitely going to keep reading, so I'll be sure to post more books as I finish them. I am curious to see how high I can get.

#119: I am curious to see how high I can get.

I hope you manage to break your personal best for the year!

Here's several short books (150 pages or less) I read this past week. Mostly research for my London summer course. I'm writing a paper on the Bodleian Library, Oxford.

#76. The Whispering Gallery by William Logan, poetry

#77. The Autobiography of Sir Thomas Bodley by Thomas Bodley

Bodley was the founder of the Bodleian Library, University of Oxford. His short autobiography deals mostly with his pre-library life, as a diplomat for Queen Elizabeth.

#78. The Bodleian Library in the Seventeenth and Eighteenth Centuries by I P Phillip

This is a collection of Lyell Lectures given by Phillip as a series of snippits of the history of the library.

#79. The Bodleian Library at Oxford by Falconer Madan

Sorry no touchstone. Madan was Bodley's Librarian in the early 1900's. His short introduction was very helpful towards getting an overview.

#121 The Bodleian is one of my favourite places - Duke Humfrey's in particular. I was fortunate enough to be doing research on early Anglo-Saxon manuscripts back in the early 90s, and that was my daily haunt. But it sounds as if you know far more about the history of the place than I ever got to know, after all that reading around it!

#122. I'm partway through a longer history by Edmund Craster. It's about 350 pages and covers the years 1845-1945. It's quite detailed. I'm really enjoying it. When I was in London we did a day trip to Oxford and did quick tours of both the Bodleian and Christ Church library. We walked through Duke Humfrey's and the Radcliffe Camera, but couldn't stay. I would have loved to have used the collections.

Congrats on hitting 75!! Yay!

Congratulations on passing the 75 book mark, and the Griffin book is going straight to my wishlist!

@125. Thanks. I started reading the second book in the series yesterday The Midnight Mayor, it's off to a great start. I just got the third and most recent book from Borders, so I can jump right in when I finish "Mayor." I really enjoy Griffin's style: great character development, well paced plot, cool portrayal of magic, and detailed London descriptions. I'm so glad a friend recommended this series to me, otherwise I would have completely missed out. That is one of the reasons I'm mentioning it here, for fantasy/magic/London folks who might be interested.

Congrats!

The library has the first and is in the process of sending it to me via my local branch, but not the second book. :-(

Backing up to read your review of the Griffin book, from which I was distracted by mention of the Bodleian earlier. That does sound interesting - I'll keep an eye out for that series.

#80. History of the Bodleian Library 1845-1945 by Sir Edmund Craster

A very detailed and informative history of the library, including the years in which Craster was himself Bodley's Librarian. He covers collection development, building expansions, war troubles, and the men who preceded him as Librarian. Craster's humour shines through in some of the anecdotes he recounts.

#81. Pietas Oxoniensis by the Bodleian Library

A bief tribute to Sir Thomas Bodley, on the tri-centenial of the founding of the Bodleian Library.

#82. The Silver Skull by Mark Chadbourn

This book is the first in a new "Sword of Albion" fantasy series set in Elizabethan England. Walsingham's spy network are actually a secret service designed to discover and thwart the plans of "the Enemy" inhuman forces bent on destroying England. Faeries of a sort with unique powers. They decieve the Spanish into supporting their cause and get them to send the Armada against England. The central character Will Smythe, England's most famous spy, must travel to Spain in an attempt to recapture a weapon which the Enemy stole from the Tower of London. He also travels to Scotland, and must suffer pain, disappointment, and betrayal during his quest. Christopher Marlow, Sir Walter Raleigh, and other famous folk make appearances throughout the book.

#83. Will in the World: How Shakespeare Became Shakespeare by Stephen Greenblatt

I started this book while in London, and have slowly worked my way through it. I really enjoyed the book, even though certain parts are more speculation than confirmed history. I liked gaining a better understanding of the context in which Shakespeare lived and worked.

#131: The Silver Skull looks like a book I would enjoy. I will have to see if the local library has a copy.

I have had Will in the World in the BlackHole for a while now. Maybe one of these days I will actually get it read! Glad to see you enjoyed it.

I, too, have been wanting to read Will in the World for quite sometime. Glad to see someone recommend it!

@ alcottacre and weejane: I'm glad that you are both interested in the book. I know how huge Black Holes of TBR books can get, but maybe my mentioning Will can move him a few spaces closer to the top.

#84. Letters of Sir Thomas Bodley to Thomas James by Sir Thomas Bodley

This collection contains all of the letters which Bodley wrote to James. Sadly it's one-sided, but is still fascinating to read. The men began writing in 1599 (before the library opened) and they corresponded right up until Bodley died in 1613. James was the first appointed Librarian for the new library, hand picked by Bodley. He was quite an academic, and a strong Protestant. He is responsible for the first two published catalogs of the Bodleian Library, 1605 and 1620. The letter contain a wealth of information, mostly involving books. The two men were constantly trying to keep current lists of new purchases; Bodley bought lots of books in London, and had buyers on the Continent. Each year he sent one large shipment to James to be added to the library. The letters contain constant notes to check for titles, double check, and make sure that the Register of Donations is kept current. I really enjoyed reading this primary source for my research paper.

#134: I really enjoyed reading this primary source for my research paper.

I bet! I love primary sources.

#134 - I certainly hope so! Part of the problem is also just finding the time! I was tearing through books earlier (well, tearing for me) but ever since we got back from vacation I feel I can only read 2 pages at a time!

#85. Midnight Mayor: Or the Inauguration of Matthew Swift by Kate Griffin

This is the sequel to Madness of Angels. It was really enjoyable. Kate introduced several new characters and further developed several from the first book. The book opens with sorcerer Matthew Swift being cursed and nearly killed after answering the phone. He soon learns that the Midnight Mayor, who he thought was only a myth, is dead and that he has been marked as the successor. While struggling to cope with the fact that the office of Midnight Mayor actually exists, learning the history and abilities of the office, Swift must discover what killed his predecessor and discover how to stop it before it kills him. He is able to draw upon his unique magical abilities and survive some close calls with death. One of my favourite parts of the book deals with an escape through the Underground using magical means. I won't spoil it for those of you who may read the series.

I've just started the most recent book in the series. Often the characters are humorous and sarcastic, I've found myself laughing and smirking at certain points. The books are fast paced and have a good amount of action, darkness and violence, which is balanced by childlike innocence and sections of lighthearted humour. I love how Griffin builds upon each book by adding more and more layers of magical history, it all relates to London and is so well intertwined with reality that her world just makes sense. I've not found any huge holes or inconsistencies with her urban fantasy London. History, magic and contemporary scenes are all merged by a skilled author.

Grad school and two part time jobs have taken over my life. Here's a quick list of what I've read recently.

#86. The English Library Before 1700

#87. Trecentale Bodleianum: A memorial volume for the 300 anniversary of the Public Funeral of Sir Thomas Bodley

As a side note I submited my paper on the Bodleian Library on September 15. I recently heard back from the professor stating that she enjoyed my paper, and that I had received an A in the course.

#88. The Neon Court by Kate Griffen
The most recent book in the story of Matthew Swift. I really enjoyed it. London is plauged by Blackout, and the edges of the map begin to disappear, and the Tribe and Neon Court are at war. Matthew is almost blinded by magic, and has to consult his dead master about how to handle the problem.

#89. Star Wars Fate of the Jedi Allies by Cristie Golden

#90. The Bone House by Stephen Lawhead
The second book in his new Bright Empire series, all about ley lines, time travel and alternative history. He's one of my favourite authors, and I like the new series.

And now I read mostly school books. The first finished book of the semester is:
#91. Becoming a Master Manager
for my library management course. It's not my favourite class, that would be Rare Books. Some of the info is useful, and I'm grateful it's being taught by one of my favourite professor in the department.

Congratulations on the A for your paper!

#138 - I can relate! Grad school and a full-time job have taken over my life. I'm impressed that you've reached 91 books! I'll be lucky if I reach 50 this year. This semester I've allowed myself to read fiction on the train and over my lunch hour, so that helps (although choosing to read 765 page books does not).

Well done indeed on the A grade for the course!

Thanks. I really enjoyed researching and writing that paper.

@DorsVenabili Much of my fiction reading occurs over the summer and during school holidays. Right now I'm reading a dozen books for my coursework and I'm working on one fiction book. It also happens to be a rather long one, 650-700 pages I think, so it will take me a while to get through. But every now and then I just need a break from all the academics.

#92. Library an Unquiet History by Matthew Battles
This one was not required for class, but will be beneficial to my studies. It was lighter weight than my academic books but still really informative. I enjoyed Battles style, his examples and anecdotes were really interesting. A brief overview of libraries, which included book collecting, burning/stealing books through war efforts and propaganda, and libraries as portrayed in literature.

#93. Arranging and Describing Archives and Manuscripts by Kathleen Roe

#94. Books as History by David Pearson

This book was really enjoyable. It traces the history of books as objects, was loaded with full colour illustrations, and showed the author's love and respect for the printed word. I read this book for a Rare Books class and it provided a good introduction. In many cases it provided full page photos of covers, title pages, marginalia, and other bibliographic examples to show variations among editions.

#95. A New Introduction to Bibliography by Phillip Gaskell

It sounds like you're reading some really good books for your course! The last dozen or so that you've read sound great - I'll have to look in to some of them!

#143 I think I have the Gaskell book, but I never got round to reading it. The Pearson sounds very interesting. How about putting your review on the review page - I see that no-one else has reviewed it yet and your brief comments would be helpful to any prospective readers. How recently was that one written?

Thanks for the suggestion, I will post a bit more detailed review. I have the revised edition of Pearson in paperback, which was published this year. The first edition came out in 2008.

Thanks - one to look out for!

#96. The Ball and the Cross by G. K. Chesterton
I'm a big fan of Chesterton and this book did not disappoint. A Scottish Catholic challenges an atheist London bookseller to a duel when he is offended by the atheist's blasphemous publications. The atheist is thrilled that someone finally noticed him and has responded. They run across the city and the countryside trying to duel each other but the police and bystanders constantly seek to stop them. The men have several debates and eventually must work together to oppose a government seeking to keep them in an insane asylum for their beliefs.

#97. ABC for Book Collectors by John Carter
A humorous and witty dictionary for book collectors and those interested in understanding book market terminology. Provides a brief history of book collecting and many fun anecdotes.

#98. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead by Tom Stoppard

I needed a bit of a break from academic reading so I decided to read Ros and Guil. I read Stoppard's Arcadia a few years ago and really enjoyed it. This past summer when I was in London I saw Ros and Guil at the Royal Theatre Haymarket and when I saw a cheap paperback at a Borders when I got back I bought it. It's an existential play, along the lines of Waiting for Godot. I've personally not read or seem Hamlet so I only knew the basic outline. However the play was still very enjoyable.

#99. Poems from the Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien

This small collection of poems contains 30 of Tolkien's own color illustrations, along with a dozen poems as well as the Gollum/Bilbo riddles.

#100. Organizing Your Museum edited by Sarah Dubberly

A textbook for my historical agencies management class. Contains some very useful articles and sample documents for starting up a new museum.

#101. A Millennium of the Book

This was a collection of essays about the production, design, and illustration of both manuscripts and printed books. Chapters dealt with such topics as the Aldine Italic typeface, book binding, graphic books, and magazine illustrations. It was quite interesting and covered a couple of topics which I knew nothing about.

#102. Redwall: The Graphic Novel by Brian Jacques

The Redwall series is one of my favourites. I decided to pick up the graphic novel when it was recently on sale on Amazon.com. I've just started to be interested in the graphic novel format, and decided trying an familiar book would be a good introduction. I thoroughly enjoyed getting the Redwall story from a new perspective, the artwork was really well done. Different from the book illustrations but still in a similar enough style to feel some continuity. I've just ordered The Hobbit in graphic novel format, can't wait for it to get here.

#103. Archives: Principles and Practices by Laura Millar

This was the textbook for my Archives and Management class. It provided a good introduction to the topic of archives. Millar offers examples from her experience as a Canadian, but she also presents general principles which are applicable to all Western archivists. Easy to read, the examples were relevent, and the content was informative.

#104. Velvet Elvis by Rob Bell

Written by mega-church pastor and successful creator of the Nooma video series about the Bible. Rob Bell offers interesting views on Scripture. I found his sections on Jews and 1st Century Judaism to be the most engaging, since I don't know much about it. Learning about prayer shawls, rabbi/disciple relations, and Roman political structures helped me to better understand the context a few parts of the Bible.

#105. Fate of the Jedi: Vortex by Troy Denning

I needed a break from all my academic work so I decided to go with a Star Wars book. It lasted two days, between classes and assignments. Now it's time to jump back to the academics and work on all my term papers. It will all be over on Thursday.

Hooray for SW! I'm debating whether or not I want to (and have the time) to jump into The Old Republic on-line game that is being released.

Star Wars just hit the spot this time.

#106. The Life and Legend of Obi-Wan Kenobi by Ryder Windham

A short e-book which opens in-between Episode V and VI with Luke's arrival at Ben's house to build a new lightsaber. It highlights Obi-Wan's history both through the journal he left behind for Luke and with Obi-Wan's flashbacks over his life starting as an apprentice and proceeding through Episode's I-IV. It then quickly covers Eps V and VI from both Luke's perspective and Force Ghost Obi-Wan. It ends with Obi-Wan's farewell to Luke after Ep. VI and his encouragement to Luke to restart the Jedi order. An interesting perspective, and a nice distraction from homework.

Um. . . I need this book! I'm going to search for it right now!

ETA - Couldn't find it on the kindle store. . . what type of e-reader do you have?

@ weejane: I have it in epub format which I read with Adobe Digital Editions on my computer. I don't own an e-reader device. I just did a quick Amazon/B&N search and all I could find were hardcover copies. My dad downloaded a bunch of Star Wars e-books, so I'm not sure where he got them from.

#107. Dragons of the Valley by Donita Paul

The second book in a new series by the author of DragonSpell and DragonLight. I won both the first and third books as ARCs from Early Reviewer, and I bought this one to fill in the gap. I've enjoyed the YA series so far. I just started the third book.

#108. Dragons of the Watch by Donita K Paul

This was an Early Reviewer win for me, which I finally got around to reading now that the semester has ended. I've enjoyed each book in this series, it's good clean YA fantasy.

#109. Map of Time by Felix J Palma

This was an interesting read. The book is set in London shortly after HG Wells published The Time Machine. His rival Murray, whose time travel novel flopped, sets up a Time Travel exhibition, which is a complete farce, but much of London is taken in. He claims to be able to transport them to the year 2000, to see the near destruction of London by machines. As the story unfolds Wells becomes involved in several incidences which involve tricking certain people into believing that time travel actually exists, in order to save their lives. At the end Wells is called upon to explore several murder cases where it seems like the killer is actually traveling through time, given the weapons used. The ending seemed kind of rushed, and time travel was explained much like the X-Men evolutionary process. All in all though a fun read with an interesting take on time travel from the perspective of Wells himself.

#110. A Gentle Madness: Bibliophiles, Bibliomanes, and the Eternal Passion for Books by Nicholas Basbanes

#111. Erak's Ransom by John Flanagan

#112. Tales from the Perilous Realm by J. R. R. Tolkien

This collection contains some of the Professor's short stories and poems: Farmer Giles of Ham, Roverandom, Smith of Wooten Major, The Adventures of Tom Bombadil (poems), Leaf by Niggle, and On Fairy-Stories (essay).

I was familiar with a few items but was happy to read some unfamiliar material. The book contains numerous illustrations by Alan Lee. It has a lot of overlap with the Tolkien Miscellany, the Miscellany has Sir Gawain whereas Tales does not, but the Miscellany does not have Roverandom. I would recommend Tales for any Tolkien enthusiasts who doesn't already own a collection of this sort. It provides a nice glimpse into Tolkien's imagination and his views on Faerie.

#113. The Emperor of Nihon-Ja by John Flanagan

Book 10 in the Ranger Apprentice series, and the conclusion of the adventures of Will and his friends. It was a very enjoyable series, and there is one more book Ranger's Apprentice: The Lost Stories a set of short stories which fill in some gaps. I look forward to reading it soon.

#114. Tale of Asha Volume 2: Rebirth by Joseph Robert Lewis

e-book LT member giveaway
review posted

#115. Letters from Father Christmas by J. R. R. Tolkien
I picked this up over the summer when I was in London, and finally was in the mood to read it this past week. It's a fun collection of the letters and drawings which "magically appeared" from the North Pole each year for the Tolkien children, from about 1920-1943. Notes are from Father Christmas, Polar Bear, and a few elves. Humorous stories are related as are battles with goblins, and the children's wish lists.

Happy Christmas!

I re-read the Father Christmas Letters last year for the first time in ages - love them. And Leaf by Niggle is a wonderful little fable which I've read many times. I do love all the miscellaneous shorter works...

Merry Christmas!

I also read the Tolkien book for the first time last year, and enjoyed it. And Leaf by Niggle is on of my favorite of his works.

Happy Holidays!

To finish off the year:
#116. Of Limited Loyalty by Michael Stackpole

#117. The Chronicles of Narnia and Philosophy

#118. The Dragon and the Lotus
e-book LT member giveaway

#119. The Lost Airship
e-book LT member giveaway