These aren't in-depth reviews. These aren't even all the books I've read this past month. I just wanted to note the books that mattered to me and my thoughts about them, particularly any strong opinions, and hope it may spark some discussion.
August was a slow reading month for me, having read only 8 books. We had just moved into a house in late July and between unpacking, fixing, and cleaning, as well as things getting busier at my job and having to actively train for a big race coming up in October, there wasn't much time to sit down and just read. It doesn't help that I attempted to tackle the behemoth of Atlas Shrugged, which required an immense amount of time and simply got worse as the ideals of the author shined through. I think I have a masochistic streak in me (and by think, I mean know).
August was a slow reading month for me, having read only 8 books. We had just moved into a house in late July and between unpacking, fixing, and cleaning, as well as things getting busier at my job and having to actively train for a big race coming up in October, there wasn't much time to sit down and just read. It doesn't help that I attempted to tackle the behemoth of Atlas Shrugged, which required an immense amount of time and simply got worse as the ideals of the author shined through. I think I have a masochistic streak in me (and by think, I mean know).
Hyperion by Dan Simmons: Wow. This is nothing short of masterful and probably going to be in the top 5 books I've read this year. So many elements are woven together so effortlessly, from the deep and detailed character stories to the rich history of Hyperion. This felt like what Cloud Atlas should have been, with each small detail leading into something new.
Wines of Gala by Salvador Dali: While this was on a "bucket-list" of sorts, I only got it because this was $15 om Amazon (as opposed to the usual 50). This is probably the greatest coffee table book in existence, filled to the brim with trippy imagery and wine-soaked poetry. I guess you could maybe learn something about wine from this, but you might want to drink some peyote tea first.
White Tears by Hari Kunzru: In the same vein as Never Let Me Go, this is much more interesting and enjoyable to talk about than to read. This was an absolute slog to read through, but there's a twist ending that just drops a bomb on the entire thing, Lucky for me, there actually a book club in October that is reading this (and some Lovecraft erotica).
Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand: Oh boy. This isn't as terrible as I expected it to be. For what it's worth, Rand is a competent writer, creating a smokey atmosphere and adding just enough detail to make this all entertaining. That all being said, this is the fantasy of any angry middle-class white person who is sick of having obligations towards their family, their country, and the human race. The climactic moments read like overgrown toddler tantrums or the ramblings of a narcissist, and they're going to be extremely disappointed when they find out that they need to grow up.
Vacationland by John Hodgeman: I honestly have not checked out any of Hodgeman's stand-up work and I think I might need to. He's funny, but genuinely seems like he's a nice person and is willing to be a bit socially conscious. Bill Bryson and him should be friends.
Lady Killers by Tori Teller: Ah yes, the intersection of feminism and psychoanalysis that I didn't know I needed. This was fun, particularly from a clinical psychology standpoint and trying to figure out what diagnosis all these women would have (or not have). Teller put a ton of great detail in each story.
Vacationland by John Hodgeman: I honestly have not checked out any of Hodgeman's stand-up work and I think I might need to. He's funny, but genuinely seems like he's a nice person and is willing to be a bit socially conscious. Bill Bryson and him should be friends.
Lady Killers by Tori Teller: Ah yes, the intersection of feminism and psychoanalysis that I didn't know I needed. This was fun, particularly from a clinical psychology standpoint and trying to figure out what diagnosis all these women would have (or not have). Teller put a ton of great detail in each story.
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