I wouldn't consider the books I typically read high brow literature*. I often approach books like I approach movies: turn on and tune out. That usually leads me to reading fun fiction that you forget immediately after you close the book (hence the need to keep a list, so as not to reread). But of late, I've forayed into other genres with much success! So instead of paperback fluff*, I've read a couple of non-fiction, a graphic novel, and a young adult novel, each with their own story.
| The Origins of Dexter & Stray Part One: The Horizon Line
By Z. A. Armstrong
It has been so long since I've read young adult fiction, I didn't really know what to expect. I semi-reluctantly decided to read this one because it was written by a buddy of mine and I wanted to be a supportive friend. Whatever concerns I had about reading a "young adult" novel were totally unfounded. The story was super engaging, the characters were fun, and I couldn't put it down. It pretty much combines all my favorite things in the world: travel, juggling, and wonder. I could only imagine being a young adult and stumbling onto this book and gobbling it up. I can't wait to read it to the Punksto! |
| | The Downhill Lie: A Hacker's Return to a Ruinous Sport
by Carl Hiaasen
Reading a non-fiction account of some guy's return to golf sounds about as boring a book as I could imagine. But when that some guy is among my favorite authors (and I've already read all his fiction, a genre he seems to have completely given up on), I figured I might as well give it a try. I'm so glad I took the chance. A Downhill Lie is hilarious and at the same time inspirational. At times, I found myself wanting to head out to the links and try to conquer the sport myself. Or, pick a completely random project and dedicate 18 months in its pursuit all in the name of a book.
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| | The Griff
by Christopher Moore and Ian Corson
Comic books were never my cup of tea as a young 'un, though I actually never really gave them a try. So I had no idea what I was getting myself into with a graphic novel. But again, like A Downhill Lie, it was my favorites author's foray into a new genre that led me there. (Christopher Moore's books top my all time favorites list and I recommend him to anyone I meet.) And, like with A Downhill Lie, I wasn't disappointed. The story was great, the art was fun, and visual aspect gave a whole new dimension to the book. My only complaint is some of the drawings were done so stylistically that I could hardly tell what was happening. But all in all, a great, fun read. |
Yay for reading! But for now, I think there is a John Grisham that I haven't read. To the book depository!
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