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1LMHTWB
While 50 books isn't that many, I have no idea if I can do this or not. I teach high school math, I have a herd of cats most with special needs, and I read thick, serious books. But I'm ready to try!
2LMHTWB
I'm probably over-thinking this, but one thing I would like for 2012 is to read more fiction, instead of mainly nonfiction. I also want to explore linguistics as a topic. So, here's the plan:
5 mathematics --- 1 to go
5 linguistics --- 0 to go
10 cats (fic/nonfic) --- 3 over
10 other nonfiction --- 1 to go
10 serious fiction --- 3 to go
10 other fiction --- 2 over
-----
50 books -- 0 to go
Since I tend to read several books at one time and never finish any, I've bought 3 fancy bookmarks for the 3 and only 3 books that I will be reading. I'm starting with a linguistics, a mathematics, and a 'other' fiction books -- all of which I had started previously. (It may be cheating a bit but I need all the help I can get!)
ETA 1: I've decided to include the book-on-tape(CD) that I'm listening to as I commute.
ETA 2: I've rearranged my plan by moving 5 books from "mathematics" to "other nonfiction" because most of the math books will take a while to read and do associated problems. Plus, there's a lot of other topics to learn something about.
ETA3: And now I've moved 5 "other fiction" books to "cats", because I'm addicted to those cozy kitty mystery. I really need to read non-cat fiction, but it's so hard for me to find decent authors that I can read at night, when I'm half-asleep.
ETA4: Okay, now I've moved 5 books from "serious fiction" to "cats" because my brain has turned to mush and I'm addicted to cozy kitty mysteries!
5 mathematics --- 1 to go
5 linguistics --- 0 to go
10 cats (fic/nonfic) --- 3 over
10 other nonfiction --- 1 to go
10 serious fiction --- 3 to go
10 other fiction --- 2 over
-----
50 books -- 0 to go
Since I tend to read several books at one time and never finish any, I've bought 3 fancy bookmarks for the 3 and only 3 books that I will be reading. I'm starting with a linguistics, a mathematics, and a 'other' fiction books -- all of which I had started previously. (It may be cheating a bit but I need all the help I can get!)
ETA 1: I've decided to include the book-on-tape(CD) that I'm listening to as I commute.
ETA 2: I've rearranged my plan by moving 5 books from "mathematics" to "other nonfiction" because most of the math books will take a while to read and do associated problems. Plus, there's a lot of other topics to learn something about.
ETA3: And now I've moved 5 "other fiction" books to "cats", because I'm addicted to those cozy kitty mystery. I really need to read non-cat fiction, but it's so hard for me to find decent authors that I can read at night, when I'm half-asleep.
ETA4: Okay, now I've moved 5 books from "serious fiction" to "cats" because my brain has turned to mush and I'm addicted to cozy kitty mysteries!
3LMHTWB
1.) Calculus Wars: Newton, Leibniz, and the Greatest Mathematical Clash of All Time
Read and reviewed. Very interesting history of the dispute between Newton and Leibniz over who invented calculus. Very readable -- with no math!
Read and reviewed. Very interesting history of the dispute between Newton and Leibniz over who invented calculus. Very readable -- with no math!
4LMHTWB
2.) Western Languages: AD 100-1500
This is a nice introduction on the development of romance and Germanic languages. I had occasional problems with the sentences structures which was probably due to it's translation from French to English.
3.) In the Wake of the Plague
I thought this would be an interesting book on the after-effects of the Black Death but I was very disappointed. Cantor rambled and repeated himself and never said much of anything.
This is a nice introduction on the development of romance and Germanic languages. I had occasional problems with the sentences structures which was probably due to it's translation from French to English.
3.) In the Wake of the Plague
I thought this would be an interesting book on the after-effects of the Black Death but I was very disappointed. Cantor rambled and repeated himself and never said much of anything.
5LMHTWB
4.) Crossing the River
A nice piece of historical fiction concerning one event in the Revolutionary War, told from both the American and the British points of view.
5.) Aging as a Spiritual Practice
This was a LTER book, concerning growing old. The author presents a series of short essays and suggested meditations on aging and our view on aging.
A nice piece of historical fiction concerning one event in the Revolutionary War, told from both the American and the British points of view.
5.) Aging as a Spiritual Practice
This was a LTER book, concerning growing old. The author presents a series of short essays and suggested meditations on aging and our view on aging.
6LMHTWB
6.) The Cat, the Quilt and the Corpse
This was a fun cat and mystery book! The cats were realistic, the mystery was a mystery until the end, and the writing was light but pleasant. Thus, it was a perfect bedtime read.
This was a fun cat and mystery book! The cats were realistic, the mystery was a mystery until the end, and the writing was light but pleasant. Thus, it was a perfect bedtime read.
7LMHTWB
7.) Of love and other demons
I felt like reading something more 'demanding', so I read this slim volume. Not the best choice. The book is fairly dark and I'm slightly depressed, so the book only made me feel worse. It's a good book, but not when depressed.
I felt like reading something more 'demanding', so I read this slim volume. Not the best choice. The book is fairly dark and I'm slightly depressed, so the book only made me feel worse. It's a good book, but not when depressed.
8eclecticdodo
I love your idea of setting targets for the different types of books. I'll have to have a think and set some of my own. I too tend to read more non-fiction than fiction. Somehow I feel more comfortable choosing a non-fiction book as you know what to expect from them and I know what I like. And there are just so many interesting things to read about!
9LMHTWB
If I don't set targets, then I get in a rut and only read nonfiction (usually math) books. After a month or two, I burn out, stop reading, and then get annoyed with myself for not reading. There's just so much to learn and too many books to read!
These targets are just a way to give my mind a more balanced diet of thoughts.
These targets are just a way to give my mind a more balanced diet of thoughts.
10LMHTWB
8.) The Cat, the Professor, and the Poison
The second in this cat mystery series and a nice read for very stressful times. It was interesting and fun, but somehow the story didn't grab me quite as much as the first volume. It may be the book or, more likely, me.
The second in this cat mystery series and a nice read for very stressful times. It was interesting and fun, but somehow the story didn't grab me quite as much as the first volume. It may be the book or, more likely, me.
11LMHTWB
9.) The Cat, the Lady, and the Liar
Yep, another cat mystery book and the last available in this series, until April. I feel somewhat guilty or ashamed for reading these books, since I tend to read much more literary works. Still, I need something light (physically and mentally) to read in bed and these fit the bill perfectly. Plus, there are cats in them! LOL!
Yep, another cat mystery book and the last available in this series, until April. I feel somewhat guilty or ashamed for reading these books, since I tend to read much more literary works. Still, I need something light (physically and mentally) to read in bed and these fit the bill perfectly. Plus, there are cats in them! LOL!
12LMHTWB
10.) Double Booked for Death
Yet another cat mystery book! Again, I feel a bit self-conscience about reading these since the reading is so easy and the substance isn't all that great, but honestly, this is what I need right now. I had to put a dear kitty to sleep this last week and, thus, my need for comfort reading. (And I'll probably start on another one...)
As cat mysteries go, this one was well written, although the cat's part was marginal. The two main characters were wonderful -- very realistic. The cat also had an interesting personality -- he is a cranky kitty -- but not every cat in the world is a lap cat! The mystery itself was entertaining with a number of twists and turns. Although I guessed as to whom the murder was, proving it was still fun to read about. This is the first in an intended series (next one due in August) and I'm looking forward to more.
Yet another cat mystery book! Again, I feel a bit self-conscience about reading these since the reading is so easy and the substance isn't all that great, but honestly, this is what I need right now. I had to put a dear kitty to sleep this last week and, thus, my need for comfort reading. (And I'll probably start on another one...)
As cat mysteries go, this one was well written, although the cat's part was marginal. The two main characters were wonderful -- very realistic. The cat also had an interesting personality -- he is a cranky kitty -- but not every cat in the world is a lap cat! The mystery itself was entertaining with a number of twists and turns. Although I guessed as to whom the murder was, proving it was still fun to read about. This is the first in an intended series (next one due in August) and I'm looking forward to more.
13LMHTWB
11.) Murder Past Due
This is the first in a series about a librarian and his cat, a Maine Coon. I'm still debating on how much I liked it. The writing was very simple, the characters were okay, and the ending was a surprise. Not bad, but not that great, even as a cozy mystery.
I really need to get back to some more challenging books, and off this cat mystery kick I seem stuck on. I have a number of VERY interesting books that I want to read -- linguistics, history, Booker Prize winners, etc. -- but I keep picking up these mysteries which are entertaining but not really satisfying. I guess I still need comfort reading....
This is the first in a series about a librarian and his cat, a Maine Coon. I'm still debating on how much I liked it. The writing was very simple, the characters were okay, and the ending was a surprise. Not bad, but not that great, even as a cozy mystery.
I really need to get back to some more challenging books, and off this cat mystery kick I seem stuck on. I have a number of VERY interesting books that I want to read -- linguistics, history, Booker Prize winners, etc. -- but I keep picking up these mysteries which are entertaining but not really satisfying. I guess I still need comfort reading....
14LMHTWB
12.) King of Infinite Space: Donald Coxeter, the Man who Saved Geometry
This is an outstanding biography of Donald Coxeter, the 20th century geometer. The portrayal of Coxeter is sympathetic and very well researched, as is the chapters focusing on his work. Much of the heavy math is included in appendices, so the non-mathematician could easily read the biography. Reading this book makes me want to get out my copy of Coxeter's Introduction to Geometry and start working through it.
This is an outstanding biography of Donald Coxeter, the 20th century geometer. The portrayal of Coxeter is sympathetic and very well researched, as is the chapters focusing on his work. Much of the heavy math is included in appendices, so the non-mathematician could easily read the biography. Reading this book makes me want to get out my copy of Coxeter's Introduction to Geometry and start working through it.
15LMHTWB
13.) Classified as Murder
This is the second in the A Cat in the Stacks Mystery Series and I thought better than the first one. The biggest improvement was the main character's son joined the cast and added some dimensions to his father. Also the sheriff deputy was still tough but more human and realistic. The cat, however, still needs to be filled out! The plot was interesting, with less slow spots and more weird suspects.
BTW, the covers of this series annoy me to no end. The cat on the cover is a stylized obese, domestic short hair, and not a long-haired, huge but muscular Maine coon cat. The cover illustrator should have at least looked up Maine coons on the Internet or gone to a cat show!!!
This is the second in the A Cat in the Stacks Mystery Series and I thought better than the first one. The biggest improvement was the main character's son joined the cast and added some dimensions to his father. Also the sheriff deputy was still tough but more human and realistic. The cat, however, still needs to be filled out! The plot was interesting, with less slow spots and more weird suspects.
BTW, the covers of this series annoy me to no end. The cat on the cover is a stylized obese, domestic short hair, and not a long-haired, huge but muscular Maine coon cat. The cover illustrator should have at least looked up Maine coons on the Internet or gone to a cat show!!!
16LMHTWB
14.) The Story of Human Language
This is the CD version of a linguistic course from The Teaching Company. As I knew little about linguistics and yet I like language (English and others), I thought I should learn something more. And this was a great introduction to the topic. The course was thorough with many interesting examples. I'm now looking forward to more books on this topic and/or by this author.
Okay, this may be cheating a bit to include an audio-book, but I did read the course guidebook. Besides, I commute 2+ hours each day and this is the only way I can "read" on most days.
15.) When the Emperor was Divine
This short novel concerning the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II was both moving and elegant in it's simplicity. The lack of flowery details left it brutal to read in parts and made it a very emotional read. I thought it was terrific, but extremely disturbing. Considering some of the stories that are read in high school English classes, they would do better to read this book instead.
16.) File M for Murder
The last in the A Cat in the Stacks Mystery Series was also the best written. The characters had more character and the mystery was a mystery. I enjoyed it a lot but I do wonder if the series continues, who will be left in town -- between the victims and the criminals, the population is decreasing quickly!
This is the CD version of a linguistic course from The Teaching Company. As I knew little about linguistics and yet I like language (English and others), I thought I should learn something more. And this was a great introduction to the topic. The course was thorough with many interesting examples. I'm now looking forward to more books on this topic and/or by this author.
Okay, this may be cheating a bit to include an audio-book, but I did read the course guidebook. Besides, I commute 2+ hours each day and this is the only way I can "read" on most days.
15.) When the Emperor was Divine
This short novel concerning the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II was both moving and elegant in it's simplicity. The lack of flowery details left it brutal to read in parts and made it a very emotional read. I thought it was terrific, but extremely disturbing. Considering some of the stories that are read in high school English classes, they would do better to read this book instead.
16.) File M for Murder
The last in the A Cat in the Stacks Mystery Series was also the best written. The characters had more character and the mystery was a mystery. I enjoyed it a lot but I do wonder if the series continues, who will be left in town -- between the victims and the criminals, the population is decreasing quickly!
17LMHTWB
17.) Four Colors Suffice
This book is a history of the 4-color problem in math. The problem is simple, the math is complex, and the proof complete ... well, if you accept proof-by-computer (with a 4 foot tall print-out). I enjoyed the historical part of the book more than the discussion on the modern solution because this part seemed shallow. Then again, I'm sure the author didn't want to turn the book into a detailed account of computer programming.
This book is a history of the 4-color problem in math. The problem is simple, the math is complex, and the proof complete ... well, if you accept proof-by-computer (with a 4 foot tall print-out). I enjoyed the historical part of the book more than the discussion on the modern solution because this part seemed shallow. Then again, I'm sure the author didn't want to turn the book into a detailed account of computer programming.
18LMHTWB
18.) Tulipomania by Mike Dash
I was very disappointed in this book. The basic problem was most of the key chapters (the boom and the bust) where written with little or no facts. One paragraph had 5 sentences and each sentence had either "perhaps", "possibly", or "might have" in it. But then some fact, like the price paid for a tulip bulb, was thrown in. I basically have no idea what is known from period sources and what was speculation, and speculation based on modern events -- not 17th Dutch society.
There seems to be another book on the topic, by Wilfrid Blunt whom I've read before and enjoyed, so I may try reading this one. The subject -- the rise of prices for tulips and it's crash -- is interesting, but not in the Dash book.
I was very disappointed in this book. The basic problem was most of the key chapters (the boom and the bust) where written with little or no facts. One paragraph had 5 sentences and each sentence had either "perhaps", "possibly", or "might have" in it. But then some fact, like the price paid for a tulip bulb, was thrown in. I basically have no idea what is known from period sources and what was speculation, and speculation based on modern events -- not 17th Dutch society.
There seems to be another book on the topic, by Wilfrid Blunt whom I've read before and enjoyed, so I may try reading this one. The subject -- the rise of prices for tulips and it's crash -- is interesting, but not in the Dash book.
19LMHTWB
19.) Darwin's Radio
Wonderful piece of well written. well researched, and well thought-out science fiction! Once I started it, I literally could not stop reading it -- so I read it in 2 days! I'm a slow reading who normally likes to savor a book -- but not this one. I can't wait to read the sequel.
Wonderful piece of well written. well researched, and well thought-out science fiction! Once I started it, I literally could not stop reading it -- so I read it in 2 days! I'm a slow reading who normally likes to savor a book -- but not this one. I can't wait to read the sequel.
20TinaV95
I've enjoyed your thread -- and I'm starring so I can follow. I'm a sucker for cat mysteries too (ever read the Lilian Jackson Braun series?). I have also just recently lost a feline friend and know that you deserve comfort reading in times like these.
In my opinion (sorry for the unsolicited opinion) CD books count -- especially when you spend your life commuting!
Good luck! :)
In my opinion (sorry for the unsolicited opinion) CD books count -- especially when you spend your life commuting!
Good luck! :)
21LMHTWB
>20 TinaV95: Thanks Tina! Your comment made my day. I'm sorry you've lost a kitty friend too. It's never easy.
I just bought a couple of Lilian Jackson Braun books, so eventually I'll get to them. I honestly never knew there were so many cat mystery series out there. For now, it seems I'll never run out of new ones to read.
I just bought a couple of Lilian Jackson Braun books, so eventually I'll get to them. I honestly never knew there were so many cat mystery series out there. For now, it seems I'll never run out of new ones to read.
22LMHTWB
20.) Darwin's Children
This is the sequel to Darwin's Radio, and, I'm sorry to say, not a very good sequel. As good as the first one, this was a major let down. It was slow, boring, and confusing in spots. I think there was at least 100 pages too many. And other than the publisher wanting a sequel, I'm not sure why Greg Bear would write this book -- not a lot new about the major characters or the situation. (I'm probably overly harsh, but I really wanted this book to be as good as the first. And it wasn't.)
This is the sequel to Darwin's Radio, and, I'm sorry to say, not a very good sequel. As good as the first one, this was a major let down. It was slow, boring, and confusing in spots. I think there was at least 100 pages too many. And other than the publisher wanting a sequel, I'm not sure why Greg Bear would write this book -- not a lot new about the major characters or the situation. (I'm probably overly harsh, but I really wanted this book to be as good as the first. And it wasn't.)
23LMHTWB
21.) A Black Hole Is Not a Hole
This ER book would be a delightful book for any young 8-14 year old budding astronomer to read. It's got lovely illustrations, the text is clear but not 'baby talk', and there's plenty of references to look up more information. Unfortunately, I'm a bit older than 14 years old, so I wanted more in-depth explanations, although I did like the illustrations. (I honestly did not know this was a youth book when I signed up for it.) Still, I enjoyed reading it and have recommended it to a friend with young children.
This ER book would be a delightful book for any young 8-14 year old budding astronomer to read. It's got lovely illustrations, the text is clear but not 'baby talk', and there's plenty of references to look up more information. Unfortunately, I'm a bit older than 14 years old, so I wanted more in-depth explanations, although I did like the illustrations. (I honestly did not know this was a youth book when I signed up for it.) Still, I enjoyed reading it and have recommended it to a friend with young children.
24LMHTWB
22.) The Cat, The Wife and the Weapon
This is the newly released installment in the Cats in Trouble Mystery Series by Leann Sweeney. It's so nice to read a sequel where the characters continue to develop and grow. I truly enjoyed the mystery part of this one, even though I guessed the outcome but then talked myself out of that outcome.
This is the newly released installment in the Cats in Trouble Mystery Series by Leann Sweeney. It's so nice to read a sequel where the characters continue to develop and grow. I truly enjoyed the mystery part of this one, even though I guessed the outcome but then talked myself out of that outcome.
25LMHTWB
23.) Spider Bones
This is one of the latest installments in Kathy Reichs' Tempe Brennan series. I've read all the others and felt that the series was going from really good to good to marginal, with the book before this one a real struggle to finish. So, I made hubby read this one first and he said it was much better. And, after reading it, it is much better with a more cohesive plot, less lectures on anatomy/chemistry, and some character development. Still, there were areas that were confusing and the characters were a bit flat, template-like.
This is one of the latest installments in Kathy Reichs' Tempe Brennan series. I've read all the others and felt that the series was going from really good to good to marginal, with the book before this one a real struggle to finish. So, I made hubby read this one first and he said it was much better. And, after reading it, it is much better with a more cohesive plot, less lectures on anatomy/chemistry, and some character development. Still, there were areas that were confusing and the characters were a bit flat, template-like.
26LMHTWB
24.) A Tainted Dawn by B. N. Peacock
A new, and very different, Napoleonic naval novel series!!! Most of these types of books involve a young boy quickly being promoted to captain, long passages of description on how a ship tacks, and many battles. Oh, and written by males. This one is written by a woman and involves the motivations of 3 young men in difficult situations who don't immediately succeed, without long explanations of the setting of sails, and without tons of canon fire. And I could hardly put the book down!
I can't wait for the next volume -- this was #1 in a planned series of 5!
A new, and very different, Napoleonic naval novel series!!! Most of these types of books involve a young boy quickly being promoted to captain, long passages of description on how a ship tacks, and many battles. Oh, and written by males. This one is written by a woman and involves the motivations of 3 young men in difficult situations who don't immediately succeed, without long explanations of the setting of sails, and without tons of canon fire. And I could hardly put the book down!
I can't wait for the next volume -- this was #1 in a planned series of 5!
27LMHTWB
25.) Unknown Quantity
Wow, my brain is still hurting from the last two chapters! This is an extraordinarily well written and well research history of algebra from the earliest times to the end of the 20th century. John Derbyshire does his best to explain the most modern of algebras, which are abstractions of abstractions and left my brain feeling like ground meat. (Not the be analogy, but you get my point.) I teach high school math, I have a math degree, and I still was lost. While this is a wonderful book, if you don't have a strong math background, it will be tough slogging.
Wow, my brain is still hurting from the last two chapters! This is an extraordinarily well written and well research history of algebra from the earliest times to the end of the 20th century. John Derbyshire does his best to explain the most modern of algebras, which are abstractions of abstractions and left my brain feeling like ground meat. (Not the be analogy, but you get my point.) I teach high school math, I have a math degree, and I still was lost. While this is a wonderful book, if you don't have a strong math background, it will be tough slogging.
28LMHTWB
26.) How to Wash a Cat
This is the first in the Cats and Curios Mystery Series. I enjoyed the writing although it had some strange things. The main weird quirk was I would be reading along, the words would be at the level of other cozy cat mysteries (not intellectually challenging) and then, BAM!, sesquipedalian word in mid sentence. Huh? I also didn't like the end -- the author it seemed was using only pronouns for 2-3 pages, with 3 guys and 2 gals in the room, referring also to another 3 people, so I am still not sure who did it.
Over half way. Less than 6 months. And summer vacation is almost here. Looks like I'll make it!!!
This is the first in the Cats and Curios Mystery Series. I enjoyed the writing although it had some strange things. The main weird quirk was I would be reading along, the words would be at the level of other cozy cat mysteries (not intellectually challenging) and then, BAM!, sesquipedalian word in mid sentence. Huh? I also didn't like the end -- the author it seemed was using only pronouns for 2-3 pages, with 3 guys and 2 gals in the room, referring also to another 3 people, so I am still not sure who did it.
Over half way. Less than 6 months. And summer vacation is almost here. Looks like I'll make it!!!
29LMHTWB
27.) Serving Gifted Students within an RtI Framework: A Practical Guide
This was an ER book and I'm glad I didn't pay money for it. I teach high school math -- 5 classes, 40-44 students each, 2 different subjects. What the authors suggest is that I don't want to differentiate instruction in the classroom because this not something general education teachers like to do, that I should write at least 3 different sets of daily lessons (for below, at, and above grade-level students), that I should administer extra testing, that I should collaborate with my colleagues to help these students, etc. I do not have the time! Oh, and I'm not qualified to interpret all these standardized norm-referenced tests that I'm suppose to give every 5 weeks. Really? It was written by 3 people, all in the educational psychology field, and I sincerely doubt that any of the three have ever taught in a public high school. I read the whole book -- gritting my teeth.
This was an ER book and I'm glad I didn't pay money for it. I teach high school math -- 5 classes, 40-44 students each, 2 different subjects. What the authors suggest is that I don't want to differentiate instruction in the classroom because this not something general education teachers like to do, that I should write at least 3 different sets of daily lessons (for below, at, and above grade-level students), that I should administer extra testing, that I should collaborate with my colleagues to help these students, etc. I do not have the time! Oh, and I'm not qualified to interpret all these standardized norm-referenced tests that I'm suppose to give every 5 weeks. Really? It was written by 3 people, all in the educational psychology field, and I sincerely doubt that any of the three have ever taught in a public high school. I read the whole book -- gritting my teeth.
30LMHTWB
28.) Worst Instincts
An interesting essay on group think as Kaminer observed it in the leadership of the ACLU. She showed how a change in leadership to someone willing to deceive the executive board was not admonished by the board, but instead praised while his critics were forced off the board. This is not her best piece of writing and reads in some areas as her venting her frustrations, but it was interesting and gave me pause to think about how collective conformity rules over individual truths.
29.) Direct Hits Core Vocabulary of the SAT 4th Edition
As the title implies, this is a book to help students prepare for the vocabulary section of the SAT. The 'hook' for this book is the examples for use of the word are mainly drawn from popular culture, such as movies, books, and TV shows. It works, if you have seen the movies, read the books, or watched the TV shows -- otherwise it is a long list of poor definitions and pointless examples. This may be better than most SAT vocabulary books, but it didn't thrill me.
An interesting essay on group think as Kaminer observed it in the leadership of the ACLU. She showed how a change in leadership to someone willing to deceive the executive board was not admonished by the board, but instead praised while his critics were forced off the board. This is not her best piece of writing and reads in some areas as her venting her frustrations, but it was interesting and gave me pause to think about how collective conformity rules over individual truths.
29.) Direct Hits Core Vocabulary of the SAT 4th Edition
As the title implies, this is a book to help students prepare for the vocabulary section of the SAT. The 'hook' for this book is the examples for use of the word are mainly drawn from popular culture, such as movies, books, and TV shows. It works, if you have seen the movies, read the books, or watched the TV shows -- otherwise it is a long list of poor definitions and pointless examples. This may be better than most SAT vocabulary books, but it didn't thrill me.
31LMHTWB
30.) The Meaning of Everything
This is the story of The Oxford English Dictionary and how it came to be. Winchester does a good job at telling the story -- and it is a story, as opposed to a history. The focus is on the early years, when the project was getting started, and not the newest edition, including the electronic version. I do wish he would have spent more pages on the problems of the latter, because it has to have it's own set of challenges. One major drawback from reading this book is now I want to buy the OED.
This is the story of The Oxford English Dictionary and how it came to be. Winchester does a good job at telling the story -- and it is a story, as opposed to a history. The focus is on the early years, when the project was getting started, and not the newest edition, including the electronic version. I do wish he would have spent more pages on the problems of the latter, because it has to have it's own set of challenges. One major drawback from reading this book is now I want to buy the OED.
32LMHTWB
31.) Villa Incognito
I haven't read Tom Robbins for a number of years and when I saw this book in the local used bookstore, I bought it. The first part was the typical Robbins book with weird characters, disjointed story, and strange random thoughts added -- all good points. The end, however, was a bit of a disappointment. Things fit together, but much to neatly considering the first half. Maybe I'm remember his older works like Even Cowgirls Get the Blues through rose-tinted glasses. I've got another Robbins book and will give it a try.
Ahh, my summer is here! I teach, so I have nothing to do except read and the odd billion things on my to-do list. In 2.5 months, I wouldn't be surprised if I nearly finish my 50! Maybe I should have tried for 75?
I haven't read Tom Robbins for a number of years and when I saw this book in the local used bookstore, I bought it. The first part was the typical Robbins book with weird characters, disjointed story, and strange random thoughts added -- all good points. The end, however, was a bit of a disappointment. Things fit together, but much to neatly considering the first half. Maybe I'm remember his older works like Even Cowgirls Get the Blues through rose-tinted glasses. I've got another Robbins book and will give it a try.
Ahh, my summer is here! I teach, so I have nothing to do except read and the odd billion things on my to-do list. In 2.5 months, I wouldn't be surprised if I nearly finish my 50! Maybe I should have tried for 75?
33LMHTWB
32.) Good Omens
The basic plot is the Apocalypse is at hand in modern day England. The earthly representatives of the forces of good and evil have not only become friends, but enjoy the Earth. But the end is coming, so what are they to do? This is a very interesting and entertaining novel. There are plenty of characters, none of them are normal, except maybe for Mr. Young, but they fit together in a seamless mesh that makes sense.
33.) College Acceleration
This was an ER book, so I did read the whole thing, otherwise I would have stopped. The big problem is what the point of the book is. It claimed to be a documented account of a high school who went from someplace in the educational spectra (never told whether it was good or bad to begin with) to stunning results, but it also said the book would not be a how to guide. So why write it? Well, the first half of the book is a sales pitch, so the answer is at some point this author will then give up being a principal and start consulting with out high schools. Hopefully his presentations will be better than his writing because not only is there a different analogy in every paragraph, he would fail any high school writing class for is incomplete sentences and lack of subject/verb agreement. The book does have some interesting ideas towards the end, but honestly, if I didn't feel obligated to read the book, I would never have known -- the first part was so very off-putting!
The basic plot is the Apocalypse is at hand in modern day England. The earthly representatives of the forces of good and evil have not only become friends, but enjoy the Earth. But the end is coming, so what are they to do? This is a very interesting and entertaining novel. There are plenty of characters, none of them are normal, except maybe for Mr. Young, but they fit together in a seamless mesh that makes sense.
33.) College Acceleration
This was an ER book, so I did read the whole thing, otherwise I would have stopped. The big problem is what the point of the book is. It claimed to be a documented account of a high school who went from someplace in the educational spectra (never told whether it was good or bad to begin with) to stunning results, but it also said the book would not be a how to guide. So why write it? Well, the first half of the book is a sales pitch, so the answer is at some point this author will then give up being a principal and start consulting with out high schools. Hopefully his presentations will be better than his writing because not only is there a different analogy in every paragraph, he would fail any high school writing class for is incomplete sentences and lack of subject/verb agreement. The book does have some interesting ideas towards the end, but honestly, if I didn't feel obligated to read the book, I would never have known -- the first part was so very off-putting!
34LMHTWB
34.) Nine Lives Last Forever
Yepper, another cat cozy mystery! This is book 2 in the Cats and Curious Mystery Series and much better than book 1. The writing is less weird. In #1, the author adds strange large words here and there because authors are suppose to use large words? Hale did none of that in this book. The plot moved along nicely, although I'm not sure much of the mystery was solved. It was a non-climax really or a very subtle one. One of the best chapters involved telling the story from Rupert's point of view -- Rupert is a cat. The characterization and inclusion of cat details was much more than the previous book and VERY well done. Hale has created some interesting characters and has some interesting locations/plot fragments. I'm very much hoping that she pulls it together more in book 3.
I had intended to read a lot more and to read serious literature this summer, and I still might, but I'm dealing with the stresses of a new sick cat and catching up on lots of housework, so mindless reading is nice for now. I'm sure I'll move on to more challenging reading soon.
Yepper, another cat cozy mystery! This is book 2 in the Cats and Curious Mystery Series and much better than book 1. The writing is less weird. In #1, the author adds strange large words here and there because authors are suppose to use large words? Hale did none of that in this book. The plot moved along nicely, although I'm not sure much of the mystery was solved. It was a non-climax really or a very subtle one. One of the best chapters involved telling the story from Rupert's point of view -- Rupert is a cat. The characterization and inclusion of cat details was much more than the previous book and VERY well done. Hale has created some interesting characters and has some interesting locations/plot fragments. I'm very much hoping that she pulls it together more in book 3.
I had intended to read a lot more and to read serious literature this summer, and I still might, but I'm dealing with the stresses of a new sick cat and catching up on lots of housework, so mindless reading is nice for now. I'm sure I'll move on to more challenging reading soon.
35LMHTWB
35.) The Scoloderus Conspiracy
A very interesting and entertaining science fiction story set 300 years into the future. A night attack leads to the disappearance of a colonel, and then his wife is killed as is his daughter. The web of intrigue deepens as the two sides try to out deceive each other. The writing was fine, the characters could have used a bit more depth at times, and the plot moved crisply along. And the ending...well, I was totally surprised! A thoroughly good read!!!
A very interesting and entertaining science fiction story set 300 years into the future. A night attack leads to the disappearance of a colonel, and then his wife is killed as is his daughter. The web of intrigue deepens as the two sides try to out deceive each other. The writing was fine, the characters could have used a bit more depth at times, and the plot moved crisply along. And the ending...well, I was totally surprised! A thoroughly good read!!!
36LMHTWB
36.) How to Moon a Cat
This is the third book in the Cats and Curios Mystery series and I'm still not sure what to make of the series or Rebecca Hale's writing. The story was another non-climax really as the foreshadowing was pretty obvious. The climax was a repeat in a way from the first book. There was little character development.
And, well, the talking bricks was a wee bit much. In each book, Hale tries something. Book 1 -- vocabulary. Book 2 -- foreshadowing. Book 3 -- interesting points of view. In book 2 she had several good chapters told from the cats' POV. In this book, she has several chapters told from the cats' POV, 3-4 from the moonbeam's, 1 from a statue's, and 1 from the bricks in an old dressing room. Okay... I really don't know what to say.
I'm not sure what will be the new 'trick' for book 4, but I'm fairly disappointed with #3. Rupert and Isabella are such good cats that it's hard to let the series go.
This is the third book in the Cats and Curios Mystery series and I'm still not sure what to make of the series or Rebecca Hale's writing. The story was another non-climax really as the foreshadowing was pretty obvious. The climax was a repeat in a way from the first book. There was little character development.
And, well, the talking bricks was a wee bit much. In each book, Hale tries something. Book 1 -- vocabulary. Book 2 -- foreshadowing. Book 3 -- interesting points of view. In book 2 she had several good chapters told from the cats' POV. In this book, she has several chapters told from the cats' POV, 3-4 from the moonbeam's, 1 from a statue's, and 1 from the bricks in an old dressing room. Okay... I really don't know what to say.
I'm not sure what will be the new 'trick' for book 4, but I'm fairly disappointed with #3. Rupert and Isabella are such good cats that it's hard to let the series go.
37LMHTWB
My brain is now officially mush! Things are too stressful here (several sick cats and a friend diagnosed with cancer) for me to try to read serious, demanding fiction. So, cat cozies to the rescue!
37.) Curiosity Thrilled the Cat
This is the first book in the Magical Cats Mystery and a pretty good start to a new series. Kathleen has a new job in a new town in Minnesota. She also is a suspect in the murder of a visiting conductor. She and her new friends work to figure out who did. The characters are well developed and interesting for the most part. There's a love interest between Kathleen and a detective. The plot moves along with an ending I did not foresee. And the cats were nice -- not as included in the plot as say the Cats and Curios Mystery Series by Rebecca Hale, but the magical part,...hmmm...not my favorite thing but it's a minor point. Overall, good, but not great.
38.) Sleight of Paw
Kathleen is still living in the small Minnesota town when a friend is arrested for the murder of an old lady who seems to have helped everyone in the town at one time or another. Again, she works with her group of friends and with/against Detective Gordon to solve the case. The characters are a bit more fleshed out and Old Harry has a key role. He's well written and steals the scenes! The ending was a bit of a letdown as the foreshadowing was overdone. The two cats, while having a pivotal scene, were even less included. The cats have been reduced in large part to a foil for Kathleen to talk through the case.
39.) Copycat Killing
It's been over a year since the events in book 1 and Kathleen is still there. (I suspect she'll never leave.) This time she stumbles, literally, onto a dead body, while her friend discovers another corpse. Two murders to solve, but are they related? With this installment, the backgrounds of several characters are fleshed out, which in turn adds to their portrayal. The plot is better with the ending being a shock to me. As for the cats, the author seems to have taken more care in writing their parts and including more realistic cat-scenes.
37.) Curiosity Thrilled the Cat
This is the first book in the Magical Cats Mystery and a pretty good start to a new series. Kathleen has a new job in a new town in Minnesota. She also is a suspect in the murder of a visiting conductor. She and her new friends work to figure out who did. The characters are well developed and interesting for the most part. There's a love interest between Kathleen and a detective. The plot moves along with an ending I did not foresee. And the cats were nice -- not as included in the plot as say the Cats and Curios Mystery Series by Rebecca Hale, but the magical part,...hmmm...not my favorite thing but it's a minor point. Overall, good, but not great.
38.) Sleight of Paw
Kathleen is still living in the small Minnesota town when a friend is arrested for the murder of an old lady who seems to have helped everyone in the town at one time or another. Again, she works with her group of friends and with/against Detective Gordon to solve the case. The characters are a bit more fleshed out and Old Harry has a key role. He's well written and steals the scenes! The ending was a bit of a letdown as the foreshadowing was overdone. The two cats, while having a pivotal scene, were even less included. The cats have been reduced in large part to a foil for Kathleen to talk through the case.
39.) Copycat Killing
It's been over a year since the events in book 1 and Kathleen is still there. (I suspect she'll never leave.) This time she stumbles, literally, onto a dead body, while her friend discovers another corpse. Two murders to solve, but are they related? With this installment, the backgrounds of several characters are fleshed out, which in turn adds to their portrayal. The plot is better with the ending being a shock to me. As for the cats, the author seems to have taken more care in writing their parts and including more realistic cat-scenes.
38LMHTWB
Why fight the brain mush???
40.) Desert Cat
This the first in the Big Mike Mystery Series, with Mycroft, aka Big Mike, a 25 lb. Abyssinian cat. The owner Penelope Warren finds a dead body on her doorstep and investigates, along with Mike, several friends, and two police detectives she nicknames Tweedledee and Tweedledum. The first half of the book dragged, although the cat parts were interesting. About half-way through, the book really caught my attention and improved steadily to the surprising end. (I love mysteries when they are mysteries!)
41.) Royal Cat
Book two in the series and it starts off well, goes along quite well, and finishes up nicely. While some of the characters are a bit over the top, they are all believable and lovable. Especially Big Mike! I can't wait to start book 3!
ETA: proper punctuation because of brain mush
40.) Desert Cat
This the first in the Big Mike Mystery Series, with Mycroft, aka Big Mike, a 25 lb. Abyssinian cat. The owner Penelope Warren finds a dead body on her doorstep and investigates, along with Mike, several friends, and two police detectives she nicknames Tweedledee and Tweedledum. The first half of the book dragged, although the cat parts were interesting. About half-way through, the book really caught my attention and improved steadily to the surprising end. (I love mysteries when they are mysteries!)
41.) Royal Cat
Book two in the series and it starts off well, goes along quite well, and finishes up nicely. While some of the characters are a bit over the top, they are all believable and lovable. Especially Big Mike! I can't wait to start book 3!
ETA: proper punctuation because of brain mush
39LMHTWB
42.) A Comedy of Terrors
This book is a humorous fantasy story about the Royal Idiot, the Queen, and a dragon named Sandy and their fight to save her kingdom from an evil demon who plans to eat everyone. The one problem they have is they don't know where the demon will appear, which is important because they must stop it in the few moments after it appeals or it's all over.
Now, that's the basic story, but the telling of it is... quirky. The writing could be described as Tom Robbins meets Douglas Adams -- characters refer to things not yet invented (such as French), strange beings are strange (such as Peskies -- think evil pixies), and lots of confusion. Honestly, I'm not a big fantasy reader and I usually find humorous stories lacking, but this one held my attention from beginning to end.
This book, or rather a sample from this book, forced me to finally buy an ereader so I could finish it without sitting at my laptop. I have now entered the digital book age -- groan...
This book is a humorous fantasy story about the Royal Idiot, the Queen, and a dragon named Sandy and their fight to save her kingdom from an evil demon who plans to eat everyone. The one problem they have is they don't know where the demon will appear, which is important because they must stop it in the few moments after it appeals or it's all over.
Now, that's the basic story, but the telling of it is... quirky. The writing could be described as Tom Robbins meets Douglas Adams -- characters refer to things not yet invented (such as French), strange beings are strange (such as Peskies -- think evil pixies), and lots of confusion. Honestly, I'm not a big fantasy reader and I usually find humorous stories lacking, but this one held my attention from beginning to end.
This book, or rather a sample from this book, forced me to finally buy an ereader so I could finish it without sitting at my laptop. I have now entered the digital book age -- groan...
40LMHTWB
43.) Inukshuk
This is an ER book and described as a coming of age story. I'm not sure I agree -- yes, there is a teenage boy and yes, he's trying new things, but I'm not sure he learns anything about himself. Actually, I'm not sure what I think of the book overall. The writing is technically good. Thomas, the teenager, is interesting but a bit on the crazy side. The father is a mess. It's very depressing in spots. And when I got done I was left wondering if there was a point to the book in general or if I just missed it. I definitely need to think about this before I write the 'official' review.
This is an ER book and described as a coming of age story. I'm not sure I agree -- yes, there is a teenage boy and yes, he's trying new things, but I'm not sure he learns anything about himself. Actually, I'm not sure what I think of the book overall. The writing is technically good. Thomas, the teenager, is interesting but a bit on the crazy side. The father is a mess. It's very depressing in spots. And when I got done I was left wondering if there was a point to the book in general or if I just missed it. I definitely need to think about this before I write the 'official' review.
41LMHTWB
44.) Rabbletown: Life in These United Christian States of Holy America
After some apocalyptic event, the United States has been a religious state ruled by pastors of the Evangels. The setting is unique and very interesting. While hints are given about the apocalyptic event, it is never fully explained, but the extreme religious right has total control of the county, to the point of instituting public stonings of gay couples. The characters are varied, from the holy boy Bobby to a power crazed Pastor President to a healer, and each provides a unique portal to the events in this story. I fear the story is somewhat dated, as there are many references to people from the Bush-era, but then much of it is still relevant today.
This is not Randy Attwood's best work, but it was interesting and well worth my time.
After some apocalyptic event, the United States has been a religious state ruled by pastors of the Evangels. The setting is unique and very interesting. While hints are given about the apocalyptic event, it is never fully explained, but the extreme religious right has total control of the county, to the point of instituting public stonings of gay couples. The characters are varied, from the holy boy Bobby to a power crazed Pastor President to a healer, and each provides a unique portal to the events in this story. I fear the story is somewhat dated, as there are many references to people from the Bush-era, but then much of it is still relevant today.
This is not Randy Attwood's best work, but it was interesting and well worth my time.
42LMHTWB
45.) A Five Million Dollar Cat
An interesting novella about a lady adopting a cat and a reward of 5 million dollars. It was well written -- I cringed, I cried, and I quickly read it because I had to know.
An interesting novella about a lady adopting a cat and a reward of 5 million dollars. It was well written -- I cringed, I cried, and I quickly read it because I had to know.
43LMHTWB
Thanks to my rather insane teaching load, I've fallen way behind on updating this and on writing reviews. So, I'm going to try to catch-up especially over Thanksgiving Holiday.
46.) Polo in Britain
This was an ER book detailing the history and spread of polo in Britain. And I really mean detailing. I'm sure it is a marvelous resource for local British historians (histories of most local clubs), but those long lists do not make for great reading. Other parts, such as how polo was brought to Britain are much more interesting to the non-historian and are well written.
47.) In Search of Cleo
This was another ER book and one I was thoroughly disappointed in. The book is the account of starlet Gina Gershon's search for her cat Cleo who escape while she was gone. The premise was good. The resulting book was not. It reads like a collection of short stories pasted together without much thought. There is extremely foul language in spots that seem to have been added for no reason. And worst of all, as a cat-lover, I never got the feeling she missed the cat -- the search was the retrieval of lost property and that was all.
46.) Polo in Britain
This was an ER book detailing the history and spread of polo in Britain. And I really mean detailing. I'm sure it is a marvelous resource for local British historians (histories of most local clubs), but those long lists do not make for great reading. Other parts, such as how polo was brought to Britain are much more interesting to the non-historian and are well written.
47.) In Search of Cleo
This was another ER book and one I was thoroughly disappointed in. The book is the account of starlet Gina Gershon's search for her cat Cleo who escape while she was gone. The premise was good. The resulting book was not. It reads like a collection of short stories pasted together without much thought. There is extremely foul language in spots that seem to have been added for no reason. And worst of all, as a cat-lover, I never got the feeling she missed the cat -- the search was the retrieval of lost property and that was all.
45LMHTWB
48.) The History of the English Language
This was a CD course from the Teaching Company, which I listened to while driving to and from work. The course was fairly well done, although I got a bit annoyed with Seth Lerer telling us what he was going to say, then say it, and finally telling us what he did say. Okay, it is good teaching practice, but in 30 minutes, I think it was a waste of time. One thing I thought was interesting is that it conflicted in part with some of the ideas in The Story of Language. Now I want to do more reading in linguistics.
49.) The Mother Tongue
I bought this thinking "Oh, boy, this is exciting!" because I had heard and seen a lot of good things about Bryson. I read it and thought, "Oh, boy, this is boring!" He covers a lot of topics related to English and it's development, but his treatment consists of example after example after example. Basically, each chapter was an introduction followed by 5-10 pages of examples. Yes, the examples were interesting, but I was looking for a lot more meat!
50.) Cancer: The Essential Guide to Natural Pet Care
This slim little volume is well written with some very good practical suggests. The topic is a bit scary and I'm not sure I agree with the author's belief that many cancers can be cured by diet. I do wish it had more detailed discussions of the alternative treatments.
ETA: Forgot to add: YIPPEE! I read 50 books. Actually, I read a few more, but I'm a bit embarrassed to put all the cat cozy mysteries up. Next year, I think I'll try the 75 books challenge.
This was a CD course from the Teaching Company, which I listened to while driving to and from work. The course was fairly well done, although I got a bit annoyed with Seth Lerer telling us what he was going to say, then say it, and finally telling us what he did say. Okay, it is good teaching practice, but in 30 minutes, I think it was a waste of time. One thing I thought was interesting is that it conflicted in part with some of the ideas in The Story of Language. Now I want to do more reading in linguistics.
49.) The Mother Tongue
I bought this thinking "Oh, boy, this is exciting!" because I had heard and seen a lot of good things about Bryson. I read it and thought, "Oh, boy, this is boring!" He covers a lot of topics related to English and it's development, but his treatment consists of example after example after example. Basically, each chapter was an introduction followed by 5-10 pages of examples. Yes, the examples were interesting, but I was looking for a lot more meat!
50.) Cancer: The Essential Guide to Natural Pet Care
This slim little volume is well written with some very good practical suggests. The topic is a bit scary and I'm not sure I agree with the author's belief that many cancers can be cured by diet. I do wish it had more detailed discussions of the alternative treatments.
ETA: Forgot to add: YIPPEE! I read 50 books. Actually, I read a few more, but I'm a bit embarrassed to put all the cat cozy mysteries up. Next year, I think I'll try the 75 books challenge.
47LMHTWB
Thank you very much! I was a bit surprised how easy it was to do. But I do feel 'guilty' about reading so many of those cat cozy mysteries since they are so easy to read.
48TinaV95
I say it's amazing to reach this type of goal no matter what type of reading we choose! There's nothing wrong with reading for pleasure! And I feel that way sometimes too, but I don't think there are many folks on LT that judge other's choices. I could be wrong, but I haven't run into them anyway.
You can always find like minded readers here somewhere!
You can always find like minded readers here somewhere!
49LMHTWB
>48 TinaV95: Thanks! Oh, I don't think many people here judge my reading list one way or another. But I do! I prefer reading the more 'literary' novels, but they require (1)regular reading, as in nightly or at least not once in 2 weeks and (2) the reader to be awake. Since I'm usually exhausted at day's end and don't always get a chance to read every night, this makes some of these literary works tough to read.
So, I read what I can read, and look forward to vacation days for some 'serious' reading.
So, I read what I can read, and look forward to vacation days for some 'serious' reading.
50TinaV95
I think that's TOTALLY understandable! I enjoy a more literary choice when I have the brain capacity to pay it the attention it deserves / demands. I'm with you-- after a long, hard day my brain can't always process well. And then, sometimes you just need a fun escape from the everyday stressors of life = fun book!!
51LMHTWB
>50 TinaV95: Ah, well, I look at your list for the 50 Challenge and get embarrassed, become envious, moan, groan, etc. I so love to read the Orange and Booker prize books, but while I'm teaching, they are far above my brain capacity.
I had tried listening to better books, but Salman Rushdie just didn't work well -- I kept having to replay sections. Although, lately, I have had luck with listening to other literary audio books as I commute. I 'read' a Philip Roth book that way and am presently 'reading' Oryx and Crake by Margaret Atwood. I don't know if these two have better narrators or if I'm just so used to driving that I can really listen to the book.
Just for the record, I haven't stopped reading -- I've stopped this list since I made my 50 and moved to an alphabet challenge. The list is at: http://www.librarything.com/topic/145059
I had tried listening to better books, but Salman Rushdie just didn't work well -- I kept having to replay sections. Although, lately, I have had luck with listening to other literary audio books as I commute. I 'read' a Philip Roth book that way and am presently 'reading' Oryx and Crake by Margaret Atwood. I don't know if these two have better narrators or if I'm just so used to driving that I can really listen to the book.
Just for the record, I haven't stopped reading -- I've stopped this list since I made my 50 and moved to an alphabet challenge. The list is at: http://www.librarything.com/topic/145059
