While doing this post, I always conclude that I read too much. But perhaps that is my only sanity ...
Helping me help myself : one skeptic, ten self-help gurus, and a year on the brink of the comfort zone - The story of a woman who never was into self-help, but decided to try it out for a year. I honestly don't know why I read the whole thing (and in a day, no less), since it wasn't all that interesting, and I found the author a big strange. But on the other hand, I find the sort of people who attend these self-help seminars and the czars who run them a little bizarre. Especially after hearing more about these self-help gurus ... well, they sound crazy to me. Interesting. 3/5 stars.
Deceptively delicious : simple secrets to get your kids eating good food - Jerry Seinfield's wife wrote this recipe book, so it's not exactly a "read", but I like the idea about baking with purees. I already tend to add purees to my baking (esp. banana bread) and now the idea of adding purees of things I don't like (think cauliflower and brocolli) to baked and other goods appeals, but I still want to try to get my kid vegetables the real way. But to add even more nutrients, sure why not? At least it got me thinking. 3/5 stars
Little sugar addicts : end the mood swings, meltdowns, tantrums, and low self-esteem in your child today - I don't know why I picked this up except I was looking for nutrition books for kids. Andrew is definitely not a sugar addict (Eating most solids would probably come first), but I think I might be. But actually going off of sugar ... um, that would be really hard. 3/5 stars
Playstation nation : protect your child from video game addiction - I really liked this book - it mostly focuses on the addictive nature of video games. I don't think video games are entirely bad, but I do think they can be very addictive and I definitely saw a lot of college guys just totally waste their lives away playing. And I think that is the real danger, so this book really inspired me to make sure our family has lots of fun alternative activities from the beginning that we are involved in as a family so this kind of entertainment has less appeal from the beginning (we are thinking of going camping often, as a family, for example). 4.5 / 5 stars
Funny in Farsi : a memoir of growing up Iranian in America - This book is about an Iranian girl growing up in the US. SO FUNNY. It is told in little vignettes which are loosely tied together. I think of it as a book form of "My Big Fat Greek Wedding", but they're Iranian, not Greek, and it isn't about a wedding. 4.5 / 5 stars
The senator's wife - This book was okay, but had way too much sexuality for my taste. I think the part I liked best was thinking about what really makes a marriage and really figure out how I feel about the senator's marriage. 2 / 5 stars
A charmed life : growing up in Macbeth's castle - This is about a women who grew up in a Scottish family on the castle where Macbeth takes place as her father gradually grows crazy. Fascinating to see what that kind of life is like and definitely helped get me in the mood for our trip, but ultimately not my favorite and I didn't finish it. 3/5 stars
The appeal - A fun easy read by Grisham, like usual. 3/5 stars
Mortal causes : a John Rebus mystery - I only got through about 1/4 of this. I guess mysteries are just not my thing anymore. 2/5 stars
And I am currently reading
The feminine mystique
and enjoying it very much.
Showing posts with label books. Show all posts
Showing posts with label books. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Books I've Read
Okay, so I'm definitely procrastinating writing my paper, but at least I'm running simulations, so it's okay to blog a bit, right ... right?
Anyways, the books I've read so far (or at least attempted to read) this last month or so.
Protecting the gift : keeping children and teenagers safe (and parents sane) by De Becker, Gavin
Someone on a parent's email list in Ann Arbor recommended this book and I read about 90% of it. I liked the ideas in it, though it did tend to get a little stale. Basically, it recommends ways to keep your children safe from unsavory people - i.e. abuse, kidnappings, etc. The main idea I took away from it is: Be slow to add an adult into your life and quick to take them out of it. Also, use your intuition and pay attention if someone is acting weird, trying to charm their way into your life, or taking an inordinant interest in your or your child's life. A useful read, a bit dull, and a little dreary on the subject matter.
The ten-year nap by Wolitzer, Meg
Still debating whether I will finish this book. I've read about 100 pages, and I have to say, this book is not at all what I thought and kind of boring to boot. The premise is about women, especially those who have stayed at home with their kids (i.e., the ten year nap from the professional world) and their lives. But as fiction, I find the characters a little bland, the story a little tiring, a little too much sexuality for my tastes. Probably won't finish it. Too bad - because it sounded like it could have been interesting. With a different plot, different characters, and a different author, perhaps.
The world without us by Weisman, Alan
This non-fiction book describes what will happen if someone all the people just disappear. Some things won't last very long (like the NY skyscrapers and the subway system) and some things will last a really really long time (I think maybe aluminum). I only read a bit of this book, because I found it very stale. Very stale. Maybe a civil engineer or a materials scientist or a geologist or something like that might love it. But I can only read about plastic-this and steel-that and forces and pressures for so long when it's my precious free time. So, not for me.
Shattered dreams : my life as a polygamist's wife by Spencer, Irene
I really enjoyed this autobiography. I feel like I have a new understanding for what it would be like to grow up as a FLDS. I feel like I better understand the dynamics between their religion and ours. But most of all, I just felt so sad for this lady. The abject poverty and utter loneliness of her life was astounding. I mean, at one point in the book, this lady is caring for 25 children ALL by herself in this little trailer home (not all her own kids, of course). Day in and day out with no relief. Unbelievable!!!
Sex and sensibility : a parent's guide to talking sense about sex by Roffman, Deborah M
Now, I know Andrew is a little young to need talking to about this, but I figure why not start early? I really really enjoyed this book - it was pretty dense, but I loved the way the author described sexuality. It was such an all-encompassing picture looking at all the different aspects, and I really liked that. Thinking of behavior, feelings, and emotions on a continuum I think is really great. I also really liked how she recommended talking to kids about sex. It just seemed all very logical and unmysterious. I really liked this book and want to buy it and refer to it later on.
Infidel by Hirsi Ali, Ayaan
This was our book for book club, and I read part of it, but I just could NOT get into it. I admit, I am not one for biographies, and I also have to admit that the jacket totally turned me off. I was not in the mood for another book where someone talks about how evil Islam is. Because while I know some people do really bad things in its name (although, what about Christianity and the crusades? Or what about Joshua's era in the OT and the killings of all non-Israelites). But, I refuse to believe that Islam is not a good religion without some truth and some connection to God in it. So, maybe I'll have to pick this up and give it another try some time.
Plenty : one man, one woman, and a raucous year of eating locally by Smith, Alisa
This book was like a really sad and sorry version of Animal, Vegetable, Miracle which I loved from last month. Wanting to eat locally - great. Starting in the spring - well, maybe. Without any planning and living in cold Canada - are you crazy!!!! These people didn't really grow any of their own food, did not plan ahead and basically live off of potatoes. At one point, they are at the point of eating the only locally produced grain which is a mixture of about 75% rat poop and 25% wheat which they separate with a credit card. YUCK! Read the other book and steer clear of this one. Please!!!!
Ghosts of Spain : travels through Spain and its silent past by Tremlett, Giles
I read the first little bit of this and while I found the perspective interesting, it was just a little dry. But I must remember to pick this up and read it again before we go to Spain again (if we go to Spain again). I loved Spain and I love reading about the people. Hmm ... when I get some time, I definately want to study a little more Spanish history. Too much to do, too little time.
How soccer explains the world : an unlikely theory of globalization by Foer, Franklin
Maybe if I was a soccer lover ... although I have to say the one or two chapters I did read of this taught me a lot about the EXTREME violence in soccer. I had NO idea! Man, it's like the Mafia or something. Red Star Belgrade in Serbia is insane. I could not believe the amount of corruption. WOW! Definitely enlightening.
Consumption by Patterson, Kevin
Another book I got only a couple chapters through last month. This book takes place among the native Alaskans or Canadians - wow, my memory is totally failing me. The eskimos, basically. It follows a girl who is sick and goes down to the main part of the country for treatment for consumption, I am assuming. I did not realize the book would be about the illness consumption when I picked it up and I just could not focus on this book. But as you can see, I always have like 20 great books on hand just waiting to be read and if a book doesn't really grab me, I am always moving on to another. The good and the bad of reading entirely TOO much!
Anyways, the books I've read so far (or at least attempted to read) this last month or so.
Protecting the gift : keeping children and teenagers safe (and parents sane) by De Becker, Gavin
Someone on a parent's email list in Ann Arbor recommended this book and I read about 90% of it. I liked the ideas in it, though it did tend to get a little stale. Basically, it recommends ways to keep your children safe from unsavory people - i.e. abuse, kidnappings, etc. The main idea I took away from it is: Be slow to add an adult into your life and quick to take them out of it. Also, use your intuition and pay attention if someone is acting weird, trying to charm their way into your life, or taking an inordinant interest in your or your child's life. A useful read, a bit dull, and a little dreary on the subject matter.
The ten-year nap by Wolitzer, Meg
Still debating whether I will finish this book. I've read about 100 pages, and I have to say, this book is not at all what I thought and kind of boring to boot. The premise is about women, especially those who have stayed at home with their kids (i.e., the ten year nap from the professional world) and their lives. But as fiction, I find the characters a little bland, the story a little tiring, a little too much sexuality for my tastes. Probably won't finish it. Too bad - because it sounded like it could have been interesting. With a different plot, different characters, and a different author, perhaps.
The world without us by Weisman, Alan
This non-fiction book describes what will happen if someone all the people just disappear. Some things won't last very long (like the NY skyscrapers and the subway system) and some things will last a really really long time (I think maybe aluminum). I only read a bit of this book, because I found it very stale. Very stale. Maybe a civil engineer or a materials scientist or a geologist or something like that might love it. But I can only read about plastic-this and steel-that and forces and pressures for so long when it's my precious free time. So, not for me.
Shattered dreams : my life as a polygamist's wife by Spencer, Irene
I really enjoyed this autobiography. I feel like I have a new understanding for what it would be like to grow up as a FLDS. I feel like I better understand the dynamics between their religion and ours. But most of all, I just felt so sad for this lady. The abject poverty and utter loneliness of her life was astounding. I mean, at one point in the book, this lady is caring for 25 children ALL by herself in this little trailer home (not all her own kids, of course). Day in and day out with no relief. Unbelievable!!!
Sex and sensibility : a parent's guide to talking sense about sex by Roffman, Deborah M
Now, I know Andrew is a little young to need talking to about this, but I figure why not start early? I really really enjoyed this book - it was pretty dense, but I loved the way the author described sexuality. It was such an all-encompassing picture looking at all the different aspects, and I really liked that. Thinking of behavior, feelings, and emotions on a continuum I think is really great. I also really liked how she recommended talking to kids about sex. It just seemed all very logical and unmysterious. I really liked this book and want to buy it and refer to it later on.
Infidel by Hirsi Ali, Ayaan
This was our book for book club, and I read part of it, but I just could NOT get into it. I admit, I am not one for biographies, and I also have to admit that the jacket totally turned me off. I was not in the mood for another book where someone talks about how evil Islam is. Because while I know some people do really bad things in its name (although, what about Christianity and the crusades? Or what about Joshua's era in the OT and the killings of all non-Israelites). But, I refuse to believe that Islam is not a good religion without some truth and some connection to God in it. So, maybe I'll have to pick this up and give it another try some time.
Plenty : one man, one woman, and a raucous year of eating locally by Smith, Alisa
This book was like a really sad and sorry version of Animal, Vegetable, Miracle which I loved from last month. Wanting to eat locally - great. Starting in the spring - well, maybe. Without any planning and living in cold Canada - are you crazy!!!! These people didn't really grow any of their own food, did not plan ahead and basically live off of potatoes. At one point, they are at the point of eating the only locally produced grain which is a mixture of about 75% rat poop and 25% wheat which they separate with a credit card. YUCK! Read the other book and steer clear of this one. Please!!!!
Ghosts of Spain : travels through Spain and its silent past by Tremlett, Giles
I read the first little bit of this and while I found the perspective interesting, it was just a little dry. But I must remember to pick this up and read it again before we go to Spain again (if we go to Spain again). I loved Spain and I love reading about the people. Hmm ... when I get some time, I definately want to study a little more Spanish history. Too much to do, too little time.
How soccer explains the world : an unlikely theory of globalization by Foer, Franklin
Maybe if I was a soccer lover ... although I have to say the one or two chapters I did read of this taught me a lot about the EXTREME violence in soccer. I had NO idea! Man, it's like the Mafia or something. Red Star Belgrade in Serbia is insane. I could not believe the amount of corruption. WOW! Definitely enlightening.
Consumption by Patterson, Kevin
Another book I got only a couple chapters through last month. This book takes place among the native Alaskans or Canadians - wow, my memory is totally failing me. The eskimos, basically. It follows a girl who is sick and goes down to the main part of the country for treatment for consumption, I am assuming. I did not realize the book would be about the illness consumption when I picked it up and I just could not focus on this book. But as you can see, I always have like 20 great books on hand just waiting to be read and if a book doesn't really grab me, I am always moving on to another. The good and the bad of reading entirely TOO much!
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Books in March
This has been a good reading month so far, so I just can't wait to post. I finally feel like I've read some good books.
Laura Werlin's cheese essentials : an insider's guide to buying and serving cheese : with 50 recipes - I never really thought about all the different kind of cheeses there are. Next time we have a weekend free we have got to go up and try one of the world's best cheeses, made right here in Michigan by Traverse City. I liked how this book had "homework" to have you try different cheeses and sample - I want to buy this or check it out again and try all these assignments.
The savior by Drucker, Eugene
I feel like I am kind of doing "theme" reading this month, as this book is about a German who plays his violin during the war at hospitals as a kind of military service and then is given a special assignment to play at a concentration camp. I started out really like the book. But towards the end, I just wasn't so sure. The ending was not what I expected at all. In the end, this book gave me lots to think about: about guilt, about the Holocaust, about standing up for others, about whether or not you or others are good people. By the end of the book, I questioned - who among all of these people was good? Who was really acting out of more than self-interest?
The Poets' corner : the one-and-only poetry book for the whole family
I didn't read this entire book, but I'd definately like it and want to check it out again. The selection of poetry was very eclectic and I liked to read poems from it in the morning at breakfast. Andrew and Katsu didn't pay a whole lot of attention, but ... I didn't get a chance to listen to the CD it came with but I found the idea interesting.
Here if you need me : a memoir by Braestrup, Kate
This book is about a widow who goes on to live her husband's dream of becoming a chaplain to the Forestry department (or something like that) in Maine. I have secretly always wanted to be a minister and find these kind of occupations fascinating. While the stories she shares of her work on the job were very interesting, but what I enjoyed most about the book is reading about this woman's relationship with God. I find her ideas about religion very different than mine, but I really like what she had to say. I especially loved how she took "God is love"; the loving acts of others in our times of need is the evidence of God in our lives. A good (fast) read.
Animal, vegetable, miracle : a year of food life by Kingsolver, Barbara
I really really enjoyed this book about a family trying to live off local food. I love her writing style to begin with, but I found the information about different plants and how they grow fascinating. This family worked so hard and really truly enjoyed the fruits (and vegetables) of their labor. This book gave me an added appreciation for the food I eat, a desire to eat more local food, and a desire to grow and store more of my own food. A great read.
The book thief by Zusak, Markus
A total MUST read. I loved this book. I mean, how can you not love a book with Death as a narrator. At first, I was a little skeptical, but this viewpoint worked wonders for a story about a German girl growing up during World War II in a foster family of sorts as she experienced the war, the persecution of the Jews, etc. Death always describes the scenes about the color and the way each day felt. The diction and imagery of this book is AMAZING. And the characters were so vividly portrayed. This is the best fiction book I have read in a REALLY REALLY long time.
Laura Werlin's cheese essentials : an insider's guide to buying and serving cheese : with 50 recipes - I never really thought about all the different kind of cheeses there are. Next time we have a weekend free we have got to go up and try one of the world's best cheeses, made right here in Michigan by Traverse City. I liked how this book had "homework" to have you try different cheeses and sample - I want to buy this or check it out again and try all these assignments.
The savior by Drucker, Eugene
I feel like I am kind of doing "theme" reading this month, as this book is about a German who plays his violin during the war at hospitals as a kind of military service and then is given a special assignment to play at a concentration camp. I started out really like the book. But towards the end, I just wasn't so sure. The ending was not what I expected at all. In the end, this book gave me lots to think about: about guilt, about the Holocaust, about standing up for others, about whether or not you or others are good people. By the end of the book, I questioned - who among all of these people was good? Who was really acting out of more than self-interest?
The Poets' corner : the one-and-only poetry book for the whole family
I didn't read this entire book, but I'd definately like it and want to check it out again. The selection of poetry was very eclectic and I liked to read poems from it in the morning at breakfast. Andrew and Katsu didn't pay a whole lot of attention, but ... I didn't get a chance to listen to the CD it came with but I found the idea interesting.
Here if you need me : a memoir by Braestrup, Kate
This book is about a widow who goes on to live her husband's dream of becoming a chaplain to the Forestry department (or something like that) in Maine. I have secretly always wanted to be a minister and find these kind of occupations fascinating. While the stories she shares of her work on the job were very interesting, but what I enjoyed most about the book is reading about this woman's relationship with God. I find her ideas about religion very different than mine, but I really like what she had to say. I especially loved how she took "God is love"; the loving acts of others in our times of need is the evidence of God in our lives. A good (fast) read.
Animal, vegetable, miracle : a year of food life by Kingsolver, Barbara
I really really enjoyed this book about a family trying to live off local food. I love her writing style to begin with, but I found the information about different plants and how they grow fascinating. This family worked so hard and really truly enjoyed the fruits (and vegetables) of their labor. This book gave me an added appreciation for the food I eat, a desire to eat more local food, and a desire to grow and store more of my own food. A great read.
The book thief by Zusak, Markus
A total MUST read. I loved this book. I mean, how can you not love a book with Death as a narrator. At first, I was a little skeptical, but this viewpoint worked wonders for a story about a German girl growing up during World War II in a foster family of sorts as she experienced the war, the persecution of the Jews, etc. Death always describes the scenes about the color and the way each day felt. The diction and imagery of this book is AMAZING. And the characters were so vividly portrayed. This is the best fiction book I have read in a REALLY REALLY long time.
Sunday, March 02, 2008
February 2008 Books & Such
For the one person who actually cares, here is what was going on in our house this week, reading and entertainment wise. Note - everything is on a scale of 4 stars.
Books
Books
The Choice, by Nicholas Sparks – 1.5 stars – I like
The Lucifer Effect: Understanding How Good People Turn Evil, by Phillip Zimbardo – 3.75 stars – I really really love this book, but it is a very long nonfiction book. The book spends a great deal of time outlining the Stanford Prison Experiment and then discusses in general the ideas of not only personality but also (and mostly) situation and the “system” causing good apples to go bad – the bad barrel philosophy. I love the perspective this book gives me and find the psychology experiments very very fascinating. I loved it!
The History of Love, by Nicole Krauss – 1.5 stars – This was our book for book club in February and I just didn’t love it. It follows the story of an old man (a bit crazy, I might add) and a teenage girl and you see all kinds of love. But as I and another reader wondered, “When is the book going to start?”. A very slow story and the “and yet” and “but”s of the novel started to grate on my nerves. But some people really love it – what can I say.
Austenland, by Shannon Hale – 1.5 stars – A quick read on a night when Katsu was at a friends watching movies. An interesting take on what it might have been like to live in a Jane Austen novel (boring, boring, and a few hot guys). But unfortunately boring.
Another day in the frontal lobe: a brain exposes life on the inside, by Katrina Firlik – 2.5 stars – This interesting memoir by a brain surgeon wasn’t quite what I expected … though I did learn some about the brain and got a different impression about what brain surgeons do. I don’t think I’d like this job.
CDs
Putumayo Kids - 1.5-4 stars - Andrew has really really loved these CDs the last month or so. African Playground and Dreamland both get 4 stars each. French Playground is 3.5 stars. Reggae Playground is 2.5 stars, Folk Playground is 1.5 stars. Animal Playground is 2 stars. Asian Dreamland is 2 stars. And yes - we have listened to WAY too many of these in the last month. But the African Playground CD rocks. Andrew dances along to EVERY song and only wants to listen to this CD.
Friday, February 01, 2008
January Books & Movies & other Entertainment
Since I'm sick and just trying to get better, I have time for a quick blog about the books & movies we watched this month.
Books (out of 4 stars)
The Book of New Family Traditions: How to Create Great Rituals for Holidays and Everyday 3 stars - this book had some good ideas, but I guess nothing that I loved or was really spectacular. Probably would enjoy it more if I had older kids.
Playing for pizza 2 stars - No offensive, John Grisham, but your legal thrillers are way better than the rest of your books. I mostly enjoyed the story and learned about the American football teams in Italy (who knew?), but I admit I mostly skimmed the text about the actual football games (do I care). Mostly this book gave me a craving for Italian food, most especially Parmesan cheese.
The death of the grown-up : how America's arrested development is bringing down western civilization 1.5 stars - I was really excited to read this book and liked the first chapter, but it all went downhill from there. I just don't think rock n' roll was the death of American civilization. I was really hoping for a more in-depth reading of the problem or at least a solution. And how this all related to the Iraq war - well, you have lost me there. I admit, I didn't read the last chapter or two.
Nineteen minutes 3.5 stars - I really enjoy Jodi Picoult's books to begin with, and this story of how a boy becomes a school shooter was interesting (with an interesting, though not entirely unexpected plot twist at then end). I really liked how the book was told, starting with the shooting itself (all 19 minutes) and then going both backward and forward in time. Makes you think about being a parent too. A little language and a little sexuality (though you can skip those parts without missing any of the story).
How Starbucks saved my life : a son of privilege learns to live like everyone else 2 stars - This book was interesting ... I guess. The author had everything going for him before he slept around, lost his marriage and lost his wife, prompting him to start working at Starbucks. However, the writer made himself sound really stupid or like he was mentally deficient, though I don't think that's the case, he using to be an advertising executive. But the lessons he learned were interesting. So it's a bit of a mixed bag, but a quick read.
Women & money : owning the power to control your destiny 2 stars - Not the best personal finance book I've read, but not the worst. This has pretty decent advice, though I didn't learn much except that Suze Orman really really recommends trusts with a will as a backup which sounds like an awful lot of work for me. The book comes with a deal where you open an Ameritrade account and make regular deposits to get a free $100 - I am taking her up on that.
Movies
Breach 3 stars - This movie, based on a true story, about a spy in the FBI was a little slow moving but very interesting. I especially liked the take home message, which I won't spoil.
The War, Disc One 2.5 stars - I love Ken Burns films, especially the one on the Civil War, so my expectations were high and so far I am just not that impressed. I guess I was hoping for a little more explanation at the beginning instead of ... oh, it's Pearl Harbor and now we are at war. Although I guess that is how the US experienced. Katsu finds the movie a bit US-centric, which it is. Here's to hoping that the next few discs are better.
Shrek the Third - 1 star - I was just so not impressed with this movie. Oh, well. What can you expect.
Other
Ann Arbor Hands On Museum 2 stars - I think this would be a fun place, but for Andrew's age there was really only one tiny little section. A nice way to get out of the house, but unfortunately we will have probably moved out of Ann Arbor before he can really enjoy this museum. A lot like a science museum.
Detroit Institute of Art - 4 stars - I have been waiting to see this museum since we moved here and the big new renovations were finally done in November and we finally got over there. I love big art museums, but I especially like how this one was done more or less thematically in places. I really liked their more modern art (Picasso, etc.) as well as the European art. The African area was nice, but the Asian collection was TINY. They had so many fun things for kids to do - I think it would be really fun for elementary schoolers and maybe even preschoolers. Even Andrew liked some of the art.
Books (out of 4 stars)
The Book of New Family Traditions: How to Create Great Rituals for Holidays and Everyday 3 stars - this book had some good ideas, but I guess nothing that I loved or was really spectacular. Probably would enjoy it more if I had older kids.
Playing for pizza 2 stars - No offensive, John Grisham, but your legal thrillers are way better than the rest of your books. I mostly enjoyed the story and learned about the American football teams in Italy (who knew?), but I admit I mostly skimmed the text about the actual football games (do I care). Mostly this book gave me a craving for Italian food, most especially Parmesan cheese.
The death of the grown-up : how America's arrested development is bringing down western civilization 1.5 stars - I was really excited to read this book and liked the first chapter, but it all went downhill from there. I just don't think rock n' roll was the death of American civilization. I was really hoping for a more in-depth reading of the problem or at least a solution. And how this all related to the Iraq war - well, you have lost me there. I admit, I didn't read the last chapter or two.
Nineteen minutes 3.5 stars - I really enjoy Jodi Picoult's books to begin with, and this story of how a boy becomes a school shooter was interesting (with an interesting, though not entirely unexpected plot twist at then end). I really liked how the book was told, starting with the shooting itself (all 19 minutes) and then going both backward and forward in time. Makes you think about being a parent too. A little language and a little sexuality (though you can skip those parts without missing any of the story).
How Starbucks saved my life : a son of privilege learns to live like everyone else 2 stars - This book was interesting ... I guess. The author had everything going for him before he slept around, lost his marriage and lost his wife, prompting him to start working at Starbucks. However, the writer made himself sound really stupid or like he was mentally deficient, though I don't think that's the case, he using to be an advertising executive. But the lessons he learned were interesting. So it's a bit of a mixed bag, but a quick read.
Women & money : owning the power to control your destiny 2 stars - Not the best personal finance book I've read, but not the worst. This has pretty decent advice, though I didn't learn much except that Suze Orman really really recommends trusts with a will as a backup which sounds like an awful lot of work for me. The book comes with a deal where you open an Ameritrade account and make regular deposits to get a free $100 - I am taking her up on that.
Movies
Breach 3 stars - This movie, based on a true story, about a spy in the FBI was a little slow moving but very interesting. I especially liked the take home message, which I won't spoil.
The War, Disc One 2.5 stars - I love Ken Burns films, especially the one on the Civil War, so my expectations were high and so far I am just not that impressed. I guess I was hoping for a little more explanation at the beginning instead of ... oh, it's Pearl Harbor and now we are at war. Although I guess that is how the US experienced. Katsu finds the movie a bit US-centric, which it is. Here's to hoping that the next few discs are better.
Shrek the Third - 1 star - I was just so not impressed with this movie. Oh, well. What can you expect.
Other
Ann Arbor Hands On Museum 2 stars - I think this would be a fun place, but for Andrew's age there was really only one tiny little section. A nice way to get out of the house, but unfortunately we will have probably moved out of Ann Arbor before he can really enjoy this museum. A lot like a science museum.
Detroit Institute of Art - 4 stars - I have been waiting to see this museum since we moved here and the big new renovations were finally done in November and we finally got over there. I love big art museums, but I especially like how this one was done more or less thematically in places. I really liked their more modern art (Picasso, etc.) as well as the European art. The African area was nice, but the Asian collection was TINY. They had so many fun things for kids to do - I think it would be really fun for elementary schoolers and maybe even preschoolers. Even Andrew liked some of the art.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Book Reviews
I want to start keeping track of the books I read and share a few thoughts about them. I don't get as much reading time as I used to ... so it might be short.
So far this month, I've read:
The Tao of Pooh - a really fast read and an interesting, though bit odd, introduction to Taoism, the Chinese philosophy. I liked the passages from the Pooh books, but having the author talk to Pooh as he went didn't turn out as well, IMO. I especially like the idea of knowing who you are. going with the flow, and not being a busy backsoon (or however Christopher Robin spelt it). THe ideas are useful to me as I am getting stressed out about my upcoming qualifying exams and balancing school, baby, family, and me.
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan - a fascinating tale of two friends during China's footbinding past. The story of friendship really makes me think about my past and current friendships. But I was mostly supremely saddened to think about the suffering women have gone through due to past patriarchal societies. It really strengthens my feminist tendencies. Anyway, I highly recommend this book.
So far this month, I've read:
The Tao of Pooh - a really fast read and an interesting, though bit odd, introduction to Taoism, the Chinese philosophy. I liked the passages from the Pooh books, but having the author talk to Pooh as he went didn't turn out as well, IMO. I especially like the idea of knowing who you are. going with the flow, and not being a busy backsoon (or however Christopher Robin spelt it). THe ideas are useful to me as I am getting stressed out about my upcoming qualifying exams and balancing school, baby, family, and me.
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan - a fascinating tale of two friends during China's footbinding past. The story of friendship really makes me think about my past and current friendships. But I was mostly supremely saddened to think about the suffering women have gone through due to past patriarchal societies. It really strengthens my feminist tendencies. Anyway, I highly recommend this book.
Friday, January 19, 2007
Two Good Books
I've had a dearth of good books lately, but finally read a couple that were worth sharing.
Monique and the Mango Rains by Kris Holloway - this was an excellent book, though according to my mother hard to get at her library. Its a non-fiction account of a Peace Corps volunteer in Mali and her two years spent working with a midwife there. It definately gave me an understanding of what pregnancy and childbirth and just general living is like in an African village and the challenges there. Man, I wish I could be a Peace Corps volunteer - it really sounds like such great service.
My Name is Asher Lev by Chaim Potok - this fiction story is about an Orthodox Jewish boy growing up and becoming an artist, must to the chagrin of his family and the grief he goes through for it. It was one of the most well-written books I have read in a long time - I had no idea how well a book could help you understand what being an artist is like, and describe art so powerfully without pictures. I loved it!
Back to the library again today for three books on hold - hopefully some of these are good!
Monique and the Mango Rains by Kris Holloway - this was an excellent book, though according to my mother hard to get at her library. Its a non-fiction account of a Peace Corps volunteer in Mali and her two years spent working with a midwife there. It definately gave me an understanding of what pregnancy and childbirth and just general living is like in an African village and the challenges there. Man, I wish I could be a Peace Corps volunteer - it really sounds like such great service.
My Name is Asher Lev by Chaim Potok - this fiction story is about an Orthodox Jewish boy growing up and becoming an artist, must to the chagrin of his family and the grief he goes through for it. It was one of the most well-written books I have read in a long time - I had no idea how well a book could help you understand what being an artist is like, and describe art so powerfully without pictures. I loved it!
Back to the library again today for three books on hold - hopefully some of these are good!
Thursday, June 29, 2006
Book Reviews
While I am waiting for a simulation to run ... let's hear it for book reviews. I tend to read a lot (let's say at least a book or two a week ... sometimes much more), but I also tend to forget a lot. My memory is quite poor, in my opinion. So, when we selected books to read at book club last month, I could only think of books I had read recently - the Flu by Gina Kolata. I do have to say I enjoyed it, but I'm just not sure the rest of the group will. Good thing I didn't remember the other book I was reading about at the time was about Sotheby's. That would have been an even bigger hit.
So, some recent books I've read or mostly read and my quick thoughts.
The Flu, by Gina Kolata - (non-fiction) this talks about the 1918 influenza, one, if not THE worst, natural disaster in recent history. What I think is sad is how nobody even knows about this part of American history. Parts I esp. enjoyed was learning how the government tried to steal a guys research project and then make it classifed (!!!) as well as how malleable the public is and how they can't interpret statistics. And other things. A good book.
Reading Lolita in Tehran - (non-fiction) not quite finished, but I enjoyed learning more about Iran & the Revolution there. I guess I'm really out of current events, but I had no idea how much Iran is anti-Western and how terrible the situation is for women. But besides the oppressive setting, the author was an amazing English teacher who really made me want to read the books this book is loosely based around - Lolita, books by James, Pride & Prejudice, & the Great Gatsby. A real thinker.
An Ordinary Man - (non-fiction) if you've seen the movie Hotel Rwanda, you should really read the book which just came out. Another thought provoking book on disasters, tragedies, and good people. Also interesting thoughs on the US and foreign policy. Short, but very interesting and not at all graphic like I was worried about.
The Swarm - (fiction) this is a new book, at least in English, which has sold 1.5 million copies in Germany at only 2 years old. I am half way through and am really fascinated by this environmental thriller. I used to hate environmentalism (too many assemblies on the rainforest and recycling in elementary school) but I have to say that I am started to get worried and concerned about waste. Really - think of how much garbage we throw away ... where can it possibly all be going?
Cage of Stars - (fiction) I had to read this book because it's about a Mormon!!! In conventional fiction!!! Her two younger sisters are murdered randomly when she is baby-sitting them. It's about her and her family trying to cope with it in this small Mormon community. I really thought it was interesting ... esp. since I'm Mormon.
Hope someone enjoys some of these books!!!! I did.
So, some recent books I've read or mostly read and my quick thoughts.
The Flu, by Gina Kolata - (non-fiction) this talks about the 1918 influenza, one, if not THE worst, natural disaster in recent history. What I think is sad is how nobody even knows about this part of American history. Parts I esp. enjoyed was learning how the government tried to steal a guys research project and then make it classifed (!!!) as well as how malleable the public is and how they can't interpret statistics. And other things. A good book.
Reading Lolita in Tehran - (non-fiction) not quite finished, but I enjoyed learning more about Iran & the Revolution there. I guess I'm really out of current events, but I had no idea how much Iran is anti-Western and how terrible the situation is for women. But besides the oppressive setting, the author was an amazing English teacher who really made me want to read the books this book is loosely based around - Lolita, books by James, Pride & Prejudice, & the Great Gatsby. A real thinker.
An Ordinary Man - (non-fiction) if you've seen the movie Hotel Rwanda, you should really read the book which just came out. Another thought provoking book on disasters, tragedies, and good people. Also interesting thoughs on the US and foreign policy. Short, but very interesting and not at all graphic like I was worried about.
The Swarm - (fiction) this is a new book, at least in English, which has sold 1.5 million copies in Germany at only 2 years old. I am half way through and am really fascinated by this environmental thriller. I used to hate environmentalism (too many assemblies on the rainforest and recycling in elementary school) but I have to say that I am started to get worried and concerned about waste. Really - think of how much garbage we throw away ... where can it possibly all be going?
Cage of Stars - (fiction) I had to read this book because it's about a Mormon!!! In conventional fiction!!! Her two younger sisters are murdered randomly when she is baby-sitting them. It's about her and her family trying to cope with it in this small Mormon community. I really thought it was interesting ... esp. since I'm Mormon.
Hope someone enjoys some of these books!!!! I did.
Thursday, May 26, 2005
Another Book Review
I finally finished Olympia, Paris in the Age of Manet by Otto Friedrich. I wasn't sure if I would be able to finish it ... it was a little tougher reading for some reason than I had anticipated. But I'm very glad I plodded through. I had thought it would be fiction, but it was actually a non-fiction book. Obviously, the book centers around Manet and part of each chapter is about him. But then Friedrich takes tangents, either with people who modelled for Manet or who liked Manet or the city in general. I learned a great deal about Manet, but also about the history of Paris, Napolean III and his wife, the history of all the Impressionists, the invasion by the Prussians, the condition of prostitutes in the city, the history of sphyillis, the personalities and pictures of all the other IMpressionists, etc. It really is like knowing all the gossip and personalities about all the Impressionist painters and their time period. I think having read it will really open up Paris & especially the Musee d'Orsay.
So, excited to go to Paris. Less than a week! :-0
And on a side note, I finished my paper that I have been working on this month (I am not completely a lazy bum). It's all written as well as all the statistics (finally figured out how to do a multivariate linear regression ... and from a person who never took a statistics course). My advisor as well as the college's statistician who was working with us really liked it. The other girl who worked on the project with me will continue and finish up the paper. We are hoping to get it published in the American Society of Engineering Education's (ASEE) journal and present it next year at their conference in Chicago. We'll see.
But otherwise, I really am a lazy bum. Most of our stuff is packed for the move, but not for Europe yet. We start packing this weekend ... eeeee ... so excited.
May ... may be taking a trip to Utah this summer. Call it the year of traveling. Between the two of us, we have gone to : Japan, Michigan, Virginia, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Europe, and then maybe Utah, and definately Texas for Christmas. It's a wonder we're not broke from buying all these plane tickets ...
So, excited to go to Paris. Less than a week! :-0
And on a side note, I finished my paper that I have been working on this month (I am not completely a lazy bum). It's all written as well as all the statistics (finally figured out how to do a multivariate linear regression ... and from a person who never took a statistics course). My advisor as well as the college's statistician who was working with us really liked it. The other girl who worked on the project with me will continue and finish up the paper. We are hoping to get it published in the American Society of Engineering Education's (ASEE) journal and present it next year at their conference in Chicago. We'll see.
But otherwise, I really am a lazy bum. Most of our stuff is packed for the move, but not for Europe yet. We start packing this weekend ... eeeee ... so excited.
May ... may be taking a trip to Utah this summer. Call it the year of traveling. Between the two of us, we have gone to : Japan, Michigan, Virginia, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Europe, and then maybe Utah, and definately Texas for Christmas. It's a wonder we're not broke from buying all these plane tickets ...
Thursday, May 19, 2005
books ...
Can you believe we'll be in Paris in less than 2 weeks!!! I decided a have a lot of reading to do beforehand, so I went to the library yesterday and now have been on a crazy reading streak. I should be writing that paper or cleaning or something. So, since yesterday afternoon, I have read 2 books and am starting another.
Versaille was an interesting book but kind of cryptic and not what I expected. It described Versaille, all the rooms, etc. etc. in terms of the life of Marie Antoinette. Quite interesting. Made me feel a bit sorry for the poor Queen as well as very excited to see Versailles. I read all the history of the building on the official Versailles web page as well.
I also read The Sun Also Rises, possibly my first Hemingway, but maybe not. I didn't particularly like it. First thing I did when I woke up this morning was check out SparkNotes and try to figure out why this book was famous and if I was missing something. The dialogue was definately more modern than books that came before it. I liked it much bettter than Great Gatsby (I enjoyed the style much more) but they both are novels that seem centered around debauchery (on a side note - none of the kids I tutor know this ward ... they all think it means like virtuous).
I am also reading this book called something like Olympia, Paris in the age of Manet or something like that. I have read tons of books about artists lately, so I was pretty familiar with Manet's life to being with. At first I was not so impressed with Manet's paintings, but I have to admit they are really growing on me, now. I really enjoy them and am thinking about going to the Museum of Fine Arts again to check out the Manet's that are there. I haven't been to the museum in so long, it will be good to make one last stop before I go. Speaking of which, Katsu and I really need to go see the Fogg art museum and I am still bummed we didn't get time to go to the MOMA. Another day, I guess.
Well, I really better work on that paper or clean or something (especially since bookclub is at my house).
Versaille was an interesting book but kind of cryptic and not what I expected. It described Versaille, all the rooms, etc. etc. in terms of the life of Marie Antoinette. Quite interesting. Made me feel a bit sorry for the poor Queen as well as very excited to see Versailles. I read all the history of the building on the official Versailles web page as well.
I also read The Sun Also Rises, possibly my first Hemingway, but maybe not. I didn't particularly like it. First thing I did when I woke up this morning was check out SparkNotes and try to figure out why this book was famous and if I was missing something. The dialogue was definately more modern than books that came before it. I liked it much bettter than Great Gatsby (I enjoyed the style much more) but they both are novels that seem centered around debauchery (on a side note - none of the kids I tutor know this ward ... they all think it means like virtuous).
I am also reading this book called something like Olympia, Paris in the age of Manet or something like that. I have read tons of books about artists lately, so I was pretty familiar with Manet's life to being with. At first I was not so impressed with Manet's paintings, but I have to admit they are really growing on me, now. I really enjoy them and am thinking about going to the Museum of Fine Arts again to check out the Manet's that are there. I haven't been to the museum in so long, it will be good to make one last stop before I go. Speaking of which, Katsu and I really need to go see the Fogg art museum and I am still bummed we didn't get time to go to the MOMA. Another day, I guess.
Well, I really better work on that paper or clean or something (especially since bookclub is at my house).
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