Summer Reading

Eat, Pray, Love the movie comes out on August 13th and stars Julia Roberts and Javier Bardem. I'm excited. I loved the book, though books are usually better than movies, so we'll see.

Started the summer getting lots of books under my belt and have slowed a bit. Cape Cod Magic was a good read if you like a man's perspective on how his parents' relationship affected his marriage. It's funny, introspective and sometimes slow. But, that is good for a summer read.

The Elephant Keeper kept me interested, though the writing was very basic. It's historical fiction and set in England, so it gives an interesting glimpse into the past. The ending is somewhat weird, as the main character and the elephant have long conversations with each other. It was entertaining, though.

For Book Club I read The Help, and it was by far the best book I've read in awhile, with thought-provoking perspectives and historical references to the racial tension of the 1950s and early 60s. It was uplifting, kind of like the "Rocky" of African American maids. I wanted to give a cheer at the end for the women who, in their own way, stood up for themselves.

Today's a good reading day, too. A gentle breeze, no humidity. Have to take a blanket and Leap into Darkness to the back yard for some contemplation.

Almost forgot, The Brief and Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao was the best reading of the summer after The Help. It was bizarre in places, but the creative voice of the narrator and glimpses into Oscar's family were memorable and real. It shows how we all have a history, and it affects us greatly, along with environment and circumstances beyond our control. Cool book, but beware if you don't like swearing; the narrator tells it like he sees it, no words barred.