Hey folks,
It's rainy again! Seriously I am done with this. Done! I hope that you all are doing better than I. It's obviously stay at home and curl up with a book time. Brew some tea and just escape...this sounds like a plan.
Reading List 4/19/2011-4/26/2011
Books
Bossypants-Tina Fey folks! Tina Fey!
Return of the Dapper Men
Confederacy of Dunces-Hard Boiled Book Club is finally getting me to read this! More proof that book clubs are awesome. They just are.
Magazine
Four Four Two
Comics
Less of the stack of comics. I'll get there guys. Someday.
Books I Have Finished
Astonishing X-Men vol. 3
The Ticking
Have a great week! Book Slave.
Showing posts with label weather. Show all posts
Showing posts with label weather. Show all posts
2011-04-19
2011-01-25
Reading List 1/25/2011-2/1/2011
Hey folks,
It's a wonderful horrible snowpocalypse outside. It's like a shower of a fluffy white which I can safely observe from the warmish inside of the Hermitage. It's definitely hermit-weather. So here's the plan this week.
Reading List 1/25/2011-2/1/2011
Books
Heed the Thunder by Jim Thompson
And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie
Magazines
Entertainment Weekly-(At Sundance they hand these out like candy.)
Comics
All caught up again, I will be diving back into the quarter bin pick ups. Yes it's back to classics like this:
I'm also gonna spend this week diving into Dr. Who and Wallander dvds, as well as hopefully some laid back time usage. It'll be good for the soul.
Have a great week! Book Slave.
It's a wonderful horrible snowpocalypse outside. It's like a shower of a fluffy white which I can safely observe from the warmish inside of the Hermitage. It's definitely hermit-weather. So here's the plan this week.
Reading List 1/25/2011-2/1/2011
Books
Heed the Thunder by Jim Thompson
And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie
Magazines
Entertainment Weekly-(At Sundance they hand these out like candy.)
Comics
All caught up again, I will be diving back into the quarter bin pick ups. Yes it's back to classics like this:
I'm also gonna spend this week diving into Dr. Who and Wallander dvds, as well as hopefully some laid back time usage. It'll be good for the soul.
Have a great week! Book Slave.
2011-01-18
Reading List 1-18 to 1-25
Hey folks,
Howse it going? It's delightfully warm and sunny this January. I like it. I like it a lot. You know what I don't like? These books piling around me. Need some motivation. Need some drive. Or I need to know when to give. It's a tough balance that I have trouble maintaining. Thank god I have some major reading/watching/being time piled up next week. So here's some of the plan for next week. (Of course I endeavor to do more, but here's a goal to pitch for)
Reading List 1-18 to 1-25
Books
Now and Here Again and Heed the Thunder-These Jim Thompson books are slow reads. I believe he gets leaner later on. At least I hope so.
And Then There Were None
"The Red-Headed League"-Oh Sherlock! Can't wait.
Comics
Oh the bi-weekly stack of comic goodness has arrived. Good to see some new Comics on deck.
Magazine
Four Four Two.
So I'll be relaxin' & Sundancing this week. Let's see what happens. Have a great week! Book Slave.
Howse it going? It's delightfully warm and sunny this January. I like it. I like it a lot. You know what I don't like? These books piling around me. Need some motivation. Need some drive. Or I need to know when to give. It's a tough balance that I have trouble maintaining. Thank god I have some major reading/watching/being time piled up next week. So here's some of the plan for next week. (Of course I endeavor to do more, but here's a goal to pitch for)
Reading List 1-18 to 1-25
Books
Now and Here Again and Heed the Thunder-These Jim Thompson books are slow reads. I believe he gets leaner later on. At least I hope so.
And Then There Were None
"The Red-Headed League"-Oh Sherlock! Can't wait.
Comics
Oh the bi-weekly stack of comic goodness has arrived. Good to see some new Comics on deck.
Magazine
Four Four Two.
So I'll be relaxin' & Sundancing this week. Let's see what happens. Have a great week! Book Slave.
2010-10-26
Reading List 10-26-2010 to 11-2-2010
Hello,
It has been a weekend of blowing, storming, cold fall weather here in my part of the universe. I love fall, but not this version of fall. However I guess beggars can't be choosers eh? Here's the plan for this week chums:
Reading List 10-26-2010 to 11-2-2010
Books
This Year You Write Your Novel by Walter Mosley-I've had this on the TBR for awhile but I thought it an appropriate read as I gear up for NaNoWriMo.
American Vampire by Scott Snyder-Season appropriate eh?
Hellboy: The Wild Hunt-Also season appropriate, however more importantly the library wants it back.
Magazine
Four Four Two
Comics
More backup issues. Whoohoo!
Have a great week! Book Slave.
It has been a weekend of blowing, storming, cold fall weather here in my part of the universe. I love fall, but not this version of fall. However I guess beggars can't be choosers eh? Here's the plan for this week chums:
Reading List 10-26-2010 to 11-2-2010
Books
This Year You Write Your Novel by Walter Mosley-I've had this on the TBR for awhile but I thought it an appropriate read as I gear up for NaNoWriMo.
American Vampire by Scott Snyder-Season appropriate eh?
Hellboy: The Wild Hunt-Also season appropriate, however more importantly the library wants it back.
Magazine
Four Four Two
Comics
More backup issues. Whoohoo!
Have a great week! Book Slave.
2010-09-01
Hey they're making a movie of that.
Hey folks,
Looking at my calendar I noticed that it's September. September! Yeah!
Don't get me wrong. Summer can be awesome. In my neck of the woods it means insanely high temperatures, the ritualistic burning of my fair skin, and a dryness that will suck every drop of moisture from your body. Oh but I digress.
For me the fall season means that my two passions collide: movies and books. Traditionally high class movie adaptations appear in the fall so that they can be released as award-bait. Hollywood's cynical calculation is my gain as I get excited seeing what's coming up. I will always support movie-adaptations of books because it does drive people to check out the
original source material. Whether the movie is good or bad, readers will be naturally drawn to the original which is a great thing. Anything that leads to more reading by our civilization is a beneficial act.
Case in point: Recently I was motivated to finally read Never Let Me Go because I saw the trailer for the upcoming film. I ended up loving this book and now I'm even more psyched for the movie. (read my review here) Now it's completely plausible that this book may have sat on my TBR pile for another 5 years if this movie adaptation didn't happen. Sometimes it takes the simplest of reasons for one book to push to the top.
As I've written before I'm not a purist. I don't expect movies and books to be the same. I'll save that for BBC. I actually expect a screenwriter and director to bring their own style/interpretation to the material. We've all seen Pride and Prejudice a billion times. Same goes for Jane Eyre. I don't want to see what I've seen already. In some strange cases the movie is better than the book. It does happen every once and awhile. I've felt that the Swedish movie adaptations of Stieg Larsson's Millenium Trilogy have been phenomenal. However I also feel that the streamlining of the plot elevates the material. Larsson's books sometimes suffer due to too much detail and not enough editing. The movies increase the action and tension but cuts down on some of the tedious details that I don't care about. If you get the chance to check out the Swedish movie versions I highly reccommend them based on Noomi Rapace's performance alone.
Anyway here's three book to movie adaptations coming out this year (along with the aforementioned Never Let Me Go) that I am now compelled to read the book based on the trailers that I have seen:
*Accidental Billionaires by Ben Mezrich. This is the original source material for the film The Social Network.
*The Adjustment Bureau by Philip K. Dick.
*Prince of Thieves by Chuck Hogan. This is the original source material for the film The Town.
Look for these reviews in the future. (Well Maybe...) Have a great mid-week! Book Slave.
Looking at my calendar I noticed that it's September. September! Yeah!
Don't get me wrong. Summer can be awesome. In my neck of the woods it means insanely high temperatures, the ritualistic burning of my fair skin, and a dryness that will suck every drop of moisture from your body. Oh but I digress.
For me the fall season means that my two passions collide: movies and books. Traditionally high class movie adaptations appear in the fall so that they can be released as award-bait. Hollywood's cynical calculation is my gain as I get excited seeing what's coming up. I will always support movie-adaptations of books because it does drive people to check out the
original source material. Whether the movie is good or bad, readers will be naturally drawn to the original which is a great thing. Anything that leads to more reading by our civilization is a beneficial act.Case in point: Recently I was motivated to finally read Never Let Me Go because I saw the trailer for the upcoming film. I ended up loving this book and now I'm even more psyched for the movie. (read my review here) Now it's completely plausible that this book may have sat on my TBR pile for another 5 years if this movie adaptation didn't happen. Sometimes it takes the simplest of reasons for one book to push to the top.
As I've written before I'm not a purist. I don't expect movies and books to be the same. I'll save that for BBC. I actually expect a screenwriter and director to bring their own style/interpretation to the material. We've all seen Pride and Prejudice a billion times. Same goes for Jane Eyre. I don't want to see what I've seen already. In some strange cases the movie is better than the book. It does happen every once and awhile. I've felt that the Swedish movie adaptations of Stieg Larsson's Millenium Trilogy have been phenomenal. However I also feel that the streamlining of the plot elevates the material. Larsson's books sometimes suffer due to too much detail and not enough editing. The movies increase the action and tension but cuts down on some of the tedious details that I don't care about. If you get the chance to check out the Swedish movie versions I highly reccommend them based on Noomi Rapace's performance alone.
Anyway here's three book to movie adaptations coming out this year (along with the aforementioned Never Let Me Go) that I am now compelled to read the book based on the trailers that I have seen:
*Accidental Billionaires by Ben Mezrich. This is the original source material for the film The Social Network.
*The Adjustment Bureau by Philip K. Dick.
*Prince of Thieves by Chuck Hogan. This is the original source material for the film The Town.
Look for these reviews in the future. (Well Maybe...) Have a great mid-week! Book Slave.
2010-05-04
And we're back folks. With a Vengeance.
Hey folks,
Don't worry I'm still here. I have had some technical/schedule probs, but a little computer repair DIY and I'm back. You're gonna be hit with a ton of posts soon. Are you ready?
Reading List 5/4-5/11/2010
Books
Nights in Rodanthe
American Gods-As part of 1b1t!
Solar
Magazine
Four Four Two
Comics
Roninhood of the Samurai, Action Comics #888, Daredevil #506, Wolverine #84 & #85
Very happy to be able to chill out a bit and enjoy some summery good times. Have a great week! Book Slave.
Don't worry I'm still here. I have had some technical/schedule probs, but a little computer repair DIY and I'm back. You're gonna be hit with a ton of posts soon. Are you ready?
Reading List 5/4-5/11/2010
Books
Nights in Rodanthe
American Gods-As part of 1b1t!
Solar
Magazine
Four Four Two
Comics
Roninhood of the Samurai, Action Comics #888, Daredevil #506, Wolverine #84 & #85
Very happy to be able to chill out a bit and enjoy some summery good times. Have a great week! Book Slave.
2010-04-27
Reading List 4/27-5/4/2010
Hey folks,
It is a horribly busy reading week. Kinda insane. Will I survive?
Reading List 4/27/2010-5/4/2010
Books
Percy Jackson and the Olympians
Captive Audience
My Life in France
Nights in Rodanthe
Comics
A good stack. And it's Free Comic Book Day!
Magazines
Entertainment Weekly
Wired
Can I do it? Who needs sleep? Either way there's no need to go anywhere because it's effin' snowing. That's right folks. Snow! Book Slave.
It is a horribly busy reading week. Kinda insane. Will I survive?
Reading List 4/27/2010-5/4/2010
Books
Percy Jackson and the Olympians
Captive Audience
My Life in France
Nights in Rodanthe
Comics
A good stack. And it's Free Comic Book Day!
Magazines
Entertainment Weekly
Wired
Can I do it? Who needs sleep? Either way there's no need to go anywhere because it's effin' snowing. That's right folks. Snow! Book Slave.
2010-04-14
Never Forget: AD New Orleans After the Deluge
Hey All,
Howse it going? Summer has exploded all over the place. However I expect it to last all of 10 minutes the way things have been here lately. Very busy in my professional work serving the public, but I still got some reading done. Enjoy!
Review: A.D. New Orleans After the Deluge
Spurred on by the amazing new HBO series Treme (which is pronounced truh-may) I finally read this great OGN. Like the rest of the nation in 2005, I was horrified and dismayed by the events of the flooding aftermath when Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast. A few years prior, I'd visited New Orleans and thoroughly enjoyed my time there . To see the utter failure of the federal government at that time was deeply disturbing. It still angers me, although I know that the city is rebuilding and that the people there are formidable.
A.D. New Orleans After the Deluge follows 7 characters as they go thru those 5 days. Neufeld is smart to pick characters from different walks of life and situations. In this way he is able to cover the event from several different angles and provide a mostly balanced commentary. The upper class doctor who serves cocktails at his own Hurricane Katrina party is contrasted with Denise who finds herself stranded at the Superdome.
However I was most moved by the story of Leo, a comic-book fan, and his girlfriend, Michelle, who will lose everything but each other. We watch as they make the wrenching decision between staying and evacuating. His agony over losing his 15000 issue comic collection is palpable. Through Leo's eyes we understand that not only did they lose a place to live but also possessions that really meant something to him.
By exploring Denise's story Neufeld has a platform to visually show the madness of the flooding. It is horrifying and unflinching in the depiction of the Superdome. Neufeld can be in-your-face in regards to the desperation and anger felt by the citizens who feel racially targeted. It is important that he doesn't shy away. In the last few years graphic novels have taken on a journalistic style which mixes a cartoony look with a strong verisimilitude. Neufeld can portray a horrific scene and it's easier to swallow than if it was a photograph of the same scene. He does stick to the usual panel like structure but is willing to experiment. He is willing to visually show the character's mental states and break the fourth wall.
This is a good read and an important record of these events in 2005. Well worth checking out.
Howse it going? Summer has exploded all over the place. However I expect it to last all of 10 minutes the way things have been here lately. Very busy in my professional work serving the public, but I still got some reading done. Enjoy!
Review: A.D. New Orleans After the Deluge
Spurred on by the amazing new HBO series Treme (which is pronounced truh-may) I finally read this great OGN. Like the rest of the nation in 2005, I was horrified and dismayed by the events of the flooding aftermath when Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast. A few years prior, I'd visited New Orleans and thoroughly enjoyed my time there . To see the utter failure of the federal government at that time was deeply disturbing. It still angers me, although I know that the city is rebuilding and that the people there are formidable. A.D. New Orleans After the Deluge follows 7 characters as they go thru those 5 days. Neufeld is smart to pick characters from different walks of life and situations. In this way he is able to cover the event from several different angles and provide a mostly balanced commentary. The upper class doctor who serves cocktails at his own Hurricane Katrina party is contrasted with Denise who finds herself stranded at the Superdome.
However I was most moved by the story of Leo, a comic-book fan, and his girlfriend, Michelle, who will lose everything but each other. We watch as they make the wrenching decision between staying and evacuating. His agony over losing his 15000 issue comic collection is palpable. Through Leo's eyes we understand that not only did they lose a place to live but also possessions that really meant something to him.
By exploring Denise's story Neufeld has a platform to visually show the madness of the flooding. It is horrifying and unflinching in the depiction of the Superdome. Neufeld can be in-your-face in regards to the desperation and anger felt by the citizens who feel racially targeted. It is important that he doesn't shy away. In the last few years graphic novels have taken on a journalistic style which mixes a cartoony look with a strong verisimilitude. Neufeld can portray a horrific scene and it's easier to swallow than if it was a photograph of the same scene. He does stick to the usual panel like structure but is willing to experiment. He is willing to visually show the character's mental states and break the fourth wall.
This is a good read and an important record of these events in 2005. Well worth checking out.
2010-03-24
Portland & Some Merchant
Hey,
Sorry that posts have been scarce this week. I am in the magical world of tragic hipsters: Portland, Oregon! For a few days the weather was awesome, but then it fell apart and became horrible. I'm here to attend a librarian conference with people from all over the country. I will try a few short bits now, and a wrap-up of the experience.
On the first day we were graced by a concert by Natalie Merchant featuring material from her new album. Just the very concept of the album Leave Your Sleep already had me interested: Merchant adapted works of poetry, primarily from pre-1920s. Being a poetry nut this was made for me. I enjoyed the material, particularly an adaptation involving a work by E.E. Cumming. However I will say that unless your interested in something unique, offbeat, even quirky, then I don't see Leave Your Sleep being more than an "arty" blip. Music culture has changed so immensely sing Merchant's real hey-dey in the 90s that I don't see this album getting much attention.
In essence she was playing to the right audience, librarians, who ate it up with a spoon. This included myself, but then again I think that Merchant is an auteur who doesn't really care about being the top of the charts. It's not like she does duets with Miley Cyrus. So this new album will play to a very small niche. I still enjoyed her performance and will be seeking out her album when it's released.
I'll try to post more, Have a great week! Book Slave.
Sorry that posts have been scarce this week. I am in the magical world of tragic hipsters: Portland, Oregon! For a few days the weather was awesome, but then it fell apart and became horrible. I'm here to attend a librarian conference with people from all over the country. I will try a few short bits now, and a wrap-up of the experience.
On the first day we were graced by a concert by Natalie Merchant featuring material from her new album. Just the very concept of the album Leave Your Sleep already had me interested: Merchant adapted works of poetry, primarily from pre-1920s. Being a poetry nut this was made for me. I enjoyed the material, particularly an adaptation involving a work by E.E. Cumming. However I will say that unless your interested in something unique, offbeat, even quirky, then I don't see Leave Your Sleep being more than an "arty" blip. Music culture has changed so immensely sing Merchant's real hey-dey in the 90s that I don't see this album getting much attention.
In essence she was playing to the right audience, librarians, who ate it up with a spoon. This included myself, but then again I think that Merchant is an auteur who doesn't really care about being the top of the charts. It's not like she does duets with Miley Cyrus. So this new album will play to a very small niche. I still enjoyed her performance and will be seeking out her album when it's released.
I'll try to post more, Have a great week! Book Slave.
2009-10-06
Something hip. No not really.
Hello All,
I hope that you are all having a great fall. The temps here have dropped. It's jacket & scarf weather, which I absolutely loved. Well let's get to it eh?
Onward!
Reviews
Preacher Vol. 1
I have been waiting to re-read this series until this hard cover appeared. Preacher follows the journey of Jesse Custer, a former minister who has been given the "voice of god." Along with ex-girl friend Tulip and a vampire named Cassidy he is sent to search for God on earth. Yep this is that kind of book. Not for the weak or religious writer Ennis & artist Steve Dillon are able to discuss serious matters with outrageous humor. At times the art can be beautiful and grotesque, much like religion itself. Ennis is a bold writer. He takes no prisoners. This reader is definitely along for the ride.
Other Reviews
When Falls the Coliseum
Comic Info: Preacher
The Hunter
Darwyn Cooke brings his wonderful retro-style to this Donald Westlake classic. Parker is relentless in exacting revenge after he's screwed over by his partners on a job. Cooke stays true to the story. It is refreshing that he doesn't hold back. His Parker hits women and kills anyone in his way with no smug quippy hipness about him. Also Cooke is such a strong artist that often he can carry the story just from the panels. This book is amazing. Read it. Read it now.
Other Reviews
comics comics | Musings of a Bookish Kitty | Washington Post
The Reading List
Books
Arkham Asylum
Battlefields: Battle of the Night Witches
Magazine
Four Four Two
Comic
GI Joe Special: Cobra #1
Check Out Count: Creeping up.
Comic Pull List: Amazing Spider-Man #608, Batman And Robin #5, Buffy The Vampire Slayer #29, Criminal Sinners #1, Daredevil #501, Deadpool #16, Justice League Cry For Justice #4, Superman World Of New Krypton #8, Sweet Tooth #2
Have a great week! Book Slave.
I hope that you are all having a great fall. The temps here have dropped. It's jacket & scarf weather, which I absolutely loved. Well let's get to it eh?
Onward!
Reviews
Preacher Vol. 1
I have been waiting to re-read this series until this hard cover appeared. Preacher follows the journey of Jesse Custer, a former minister who has been given the "voice of god." Along with ex-girl friend Tulip and a vampire named Cassidy he is sent to search for God on earth. Yep this is that kind of book. Not for the weak or religious writer Ennis & artist Steve Dillon are able to discuss serious matters with outrageous humor. At times the art can be beautiful and grotesque, much like religion itself. Ennis is a bold writer. He takes no prisoners. This reader is definitely along for the ride.
Other Reviews
When Falls the Coliseum
Comic Info: Preacher
The Hunter
Darwyn Cooke brings his wonderful retro-style to this Donald Westlake classic. Parker is relentless in exacting revenge after he's screwed over by his partners on a job. Cooke stays true to the story. It is refreshing that he doesn't hold back. His Parker hits women and kills anyone in his way with no smug quippy hipness about him. Also Cooke is such a strong artist that often he can carry the story just from the panels. This book is amazing. Read it. Read it now.
Other Reviews
comics comics | Musings of a Bookish Kitty | Washington Post
The Reading List
Books
Arkham Asylum
Battlefields: Battle of the Night Witches
Magazine
Four Four Two
Comic
GI Joe Special: Cobra #1
Check Out Count: Creeping up.
Comic Pull List: Amazing Spider-Man #608, Batman And Robin #5, Buffy The Vampire Slayer #29, Criminal Sinners #1, Daredevil #501, Deadpool #16, Justice League Cry For Justice #4, Superman World Of New Krypton #8, Sweet Tooth #2
Have a great week! Book Slave.
2009-07-21
City on Fire!
Hello friends,
I bring this post tonight to you from the sweatlodge that is my domicile. Look I know it's summer and I live in a desert, but man some of us don't have air conditioning. Please weather gods lighten up a bit. Also at the moment I'm doing some California Dreamin' as Comic-Con begins. Someday I'll convince the library I work for to front the money so I can go. Of course it'll be for "research". Yeah researching kick ass comics baby! Well every girl has her little dream.
Well Onward we go!
Reviews
BPRD: Plague of Frogs, BPRD: The Dead
If you want to know how I feel about this series, well check out last week's review here. In it's further volumes the story begins to open up as we meet new characters. We also learn more about Abe Sapien and Roger in a very unique style. This series doesn't settle for simple exposition, they do a great job of using sequential art to get us info. The personal dynamics between different characters are wonderful. It actually reminds me of the wonderful humor for League of Extraordinary Gentleman. I love it how these characters react to each other and to the crazy events around them. Great series.
The Reading List
Books
Citizen Vince
BPRD: The Black Flame
Magazines
Four Four Two
Comics
Blackest Night #1
Check Out Count: Improving.
Comic Pull List: Amazing Spider-Man #600, Dark Wolverine #76, Gotham City Sirens #2, Green Lantern #44, Outsiders #20, Runaways 3 #12, Wednesday Comics #3
Have a great week! Book Slave.
I bring this post tonight to you from the sweatlodge that is my domicile. Look I know it's summer and I live in a desert, but man some of us don't have air conditioning. Please weather gods lighten up a bit. Also at the moment I'm doing some California Dreamin' as Comic-Con begins. Someday I'll convince the library I work for to front the money so I can go. Of course it'll be for "research". Yeah researching kick ass comics baby! Well every girl has her little dream.
Well Onward we go!
Reviews
BPRD: Plague of Frogs, BPRD: The Dead
If you want to know how I feel about this series, well check out last week's review here. In it's further volumes the story begins to open up as we meet new characters. We also learn more about Abe Sapien and Roger in a very unique style. This series doesn't settle for simple exposition, they do a great job of using sequential art to get us info. The personal dynamics between different characters are wonderful. It actually reminds me of the wonderful humor for League of Extraordinary Gentleman. I love it how these characters react to each other and to the crazy events around them. Great series.
The Reading List
Books
Citizen Vince
BPRD: The Black Flame
Magazines
Four Four Two
Comics
Blackest Night #1
Check Out Count: Improving.
Comic Pull List: Amazing Spider-Man #600, Dark Wolverine #76, Gotham City Sirens #2, Green Lantern #44, Outsiders #20, Runaways 3 #12, Wednesday Comics #3
Have a great week! Book Slave.
2009-06-03
Gunslingers, soul reapers, & a Starman
Hello All,
The sun is shining and life is busy. Oh my god the weather is a beauty here in the city of salt. I think some reading in the park, under a tree is definitely a possibility. Started a new mentorship this week and I'm pretty psyched. When I'm not reading voraciously, serving the public, or just living life, I like to help writers. I like to edit-it's a sickness really. I'm excited about this workshop. But really let's talk about books eh? I've been reading, so onward!
Reviews
Bleach Vol. 1
In an attempt to diversify I've been reading the manga. After looking at a few different books I think that I'm finally getting it. Bleach has a lot of action, some fun romantic comedy banter, and a good anti-hero at the center. I liked the reluctance of the hero. He's a punk teenager who is very self involved. His solipsistic attitude was nicely realistic. Obviously his character arc will be the embracing of his hero role. I love the fact that his mentor is a female warrior who is integrating herself undercover at his school. I've been dissapointed in the depiction of female characters in manga. In all the series I have read the females are ditsy cheesecake. Good to see a change. This is the first manga I've read that showed some great panel design. Sequential art when done right can convey visual information quickly. The pages are usually 2 panels, meaning that the focus is on action rather than dialogue. I was able to read this book, which was around 200 pages, in an hour or so. And I wasn't even reading all that quickly. I think this is the appeal of manga. Unfortunately I still found some of the storytelling to be clumsy. It seems as if the author was not sure where the story was going. New powers develop more through convenience rather than organically. Overall though I enjoyed it. Strongest manga I've read yet.
Other Reviews
Manga Punk | manga life | Read About Comics
Starman Omnibus Vol. 2
James Robinson's Starman has become one of my favorite series. In fact the Vol. 1 Omnibus was the best graphic novel I read last year, so reading vol. 2 was a no-brainer. In this volume of issues Robinson settles into the series. He's already set up our characters so Robinson delves into their past. Several issues focus on flashbacks about The Shade, Solomon Grundy, and Ted Knight. I really enjoyed the story arc featuring the "Nick & Nora"-esque team of old detectives exploring the excitement of being a superhero. Robinson fleshes out side characters like the O'Dares. This family of cops deserves a series all their own. They are so great, especially in the Christmas special and the "trip to hell" arc. Don't get me wrong I miss Jack Knight. He doesn't feature as much in these issues, but then again this is an 80-issue long story. Robinson does plant some seeds for Jack Knight stories to come. I can't wait.
Past Volume Reviews: Starman Omnibus Vol. 1
Dark Tower: Treachery
This series continues to get better and better. This is my favorite volume yet. Peter David continues to knock this book out of the park. The smartest thing that David does in this volume is to shift the focus to the female characters. This has been a "boy" book following Roland and his friends. However, here we have the introduction of a female gunslinger who is really cool. Also I enjoyed the exploration of Roland's mother, who in the first volume was woefully underdeveloped. David adds more depth to her guilt and shame. It's very apt considering the focus of this volume is betrayal. Roland is sidelined with his own obsession that has lead to betray his father. It is up to his friends to pull this hero back from the brink. Jae Lee's art continues to amaze. The grim darkness of this world is directly reflected in the art. I was particularly impressed by the last two chapters. The juxtaposition of formal dress and western motif was beautiful. Can't wait for the next one.
Past Volume Reviews: Dark Tower: Gunslinger Born, Dark Tower: Long Road Home
The Reading List
Books
Goodbye to All That
Black Mass
Magazine
Wizard
Comic
Trinity #52
Comic Pull List: Secret Six #10, Superman World Of New Krypton #4
Check Out Count: Way too High.
Have a great week! Book Slave
The sun is shining and life is busy. Oh my god the weather is a beauty here in the city of salt. I think some reading in the park, under a tree is definitely a possibility. Started a new mentorship this week and I'm pretty psyched. When I'm not reading voraciously, serving the public, or just living life, I like to help writers. I like to edit-it's a sickness really. I'm excited about this workshop. But really let's talk about books eh? I've been reading, so onward!
Reviews
Bleach Vol. 1
In an attempt to diversify I've been reading the manga. After looking at a few different books I think that I'm finally getting it. Bleach has a lot of action, some fun romantic comedy banter, and a good anti-hero at the center. I liked the reluctance of the hero. He's a punk teenager who is very self involved. His solipsistic attitude was nicely realistic. Obviously his character arc will be the embracing of his hero role. I love the fact that his mentor is a female warrior who is integrating herself undercover at his school. I've been dissapointed in the depiction of female characters in manga. In all the series I have read the females are ditsy cheesecake. Good to see a change. This is the first manga I've read that showed some great panel design. Sequential art when done right can convey visual information quickly. The pages are usually 2 panels, meaning that the focus is on action rather than dialogue. I was able to read this book, which was around 200 pages, in an hour or so. And I wasn't even reading all that quickly. I think this is the appeal of manga. Unfortunately I still found some of the storytelling to be clumsy. It seems as if the author was not sure where the story was going. New powers develop more through convenience rather than organically. Overall though I enjoyed it. Strongest manga I've read yet.
Other Reviews
Manga Punk | manga life | Read About Comics
Starman Omnibus Vol. 2
James Robinson's Starman has become one of my favorite series. In fact the Vol. 1 Omnibus was the best graphic novel I read last year, so reading vol. 2 was a no-brainer. In this volume of issues Robinson settles into the series. He's already set up our characters so Robinson delves into their past. Several issues focus on flashbacks about The Shade, Solomon Grundy, and Ted Knight. I really enjoyed the story arc featuring the "Nick & Nora"-esque team of old detectives exploring the excitement of being a superhero. Robinson fleshes out side characters like the O'Dares. This family of cops deserves a series all their own. They are so great, especially in the Christmas special and the "trip to hell" arc. Don't get me wrong I miss Jack Knight. He doesn't feature as much in these issues, but then again this is an 80-issue long story. Robinson does plant some seeds for Jack Knight stories to come. I can't wait.
Past Volume Reviews: Starman Omnibus Vol. 1
Dark Tower: Treachery
This series continues to get better and better. This is my favorite volume yet. Peter David continues to knock this book out of the park. The smartest thing that David does in this volume is to shift the focus to the female characters. This has been a "boy" book following Roland and his friends. However, here we have the introduction of a female gunslinger who is really cool. Also I enjoyed the exploration of Roland's mother, who in the first volume was woefully underdeveloped. David adds more depth to her guilt and shame. It's very apt considering the focus of this volume is betrayal. Roland is sidelined with his own obsession that has lead to betray his father. It is up to his friends to pull this hero back from the brink. Jae Lee's art continues to amaze. The grim darkness of this world is directly reflected in the art. I was particularly impressed by the last two chapters. The juxtaposition of formal dress and western motif was beautiful. Can't wait for the next one.
Past Volume Reviews: Dark Tower: Gunslinger Born, Dark Tower: Long Road Home
The Reading List
Books
Goodbye to All That
Black Mass
Magazine
Wizard
Comic
Trinity #52
Comic Pull List: Secret Six #10, Superman World Of New Krypton #4
Check Out Count: Way too High.
Have a great week! Book Slave
2009-04-21
Here comes the sun
Hello all,
It is amazing here in the City of the Salt. The shorts are out, the sandals are being worn, and life is good. I hope you all are doing as well.
I wanted to point some attention this week to a website I think is spiffy. A co-worker/friend pointed me towards this site. Admittedly I was skeptical at first but after checking out The A.V. Club, spinoff from The Onion, I was impressed. Sure there's a fair amount of edginess and unswerving mockery, but I also think there are some great series. Under the book tab you can find series such as Comics Panel, Better Late Than Never and the Box of Paperbacks Book Club. I found in these series some fun offbeat reads and reviews. Check it out.
I'd also like to point out that if you look at the sidebar I've added a list of nifty authors/artists blogs. Perhaps check some of those out if you have the chance. Okay Onward!
Review
Invincible Vol. 2
This volume picks up with the aftermath of Invincible's confrontation with his father Omni-Man. Mark has to grow up fast as he deals with his mom and heads off to college. Kirkman does an excellent job of balancing the super-heroes stuff with relationship drama. I found myself still invested in Mark's relationship with his mom and girlfriend Amber, even though it was very Silver-Agey. Like the Flash, Mark has to wrestle with whether he should tell her he's a superhero or not. It also reminded me of Spider-Man. Kirkman pulls from these classic archetypes in a fun way. Unfortunately I missed the urgency of Vol. 1, and the way that Kirkman defied expectations. Sometimes it was pretty predictable. Also I got pretty tired of all the expositional dialogue. I'd have preferred more showing, less telling.
Previous Volume Review: Invincible Vol. 1
Comic Series Info: Invincible
The Reading List
Books
Dangerous Laughter
The Game of Their Lives
Magazine
Vanity Fair
Comic
Captain America #49
Check Out Count: Gonna get better.
Comic Pull List: Daredevil #118, Detective Comics #853, Dynamo 5 #21, New Avengers #52, Outsiders #17, Trinity #47
Have a great week! Book Slave.
It is amazing here in the City of the Salt. The shorts are out, the sandals are being worn, and life is good. I hope you all are doing as well.
I wanted to point some attention this week to a website I think is spiffy. A co-worker/friend pointed me towards this site. Admittedly I was skeptical at first but after checking out The A.V. Club, spinoff from The Onion, I was impressed. Sure there's a fair amount of edginess and unswerving mockery, but I also think there are some great series. Under the book tab you can find series such as Comics Panel, Better Late Than Never and the Box of Paperbacks Book Club. I found in these series some fun offbeat reads and reviews. Check it out.
I'd also like to point out that if you look at the sidebar I've added a list of nifty authors/artists blogs. Perhaps check some of those out if you have the chance. Okay Onward!
Review
Invincible Vol. 2
This volume picks up with the aftermath of Invincible's confrontation with his father Omni-Man. Mark has to grow up fast as he deals with his mom and heads off to college. Kirkman does an excellent job of balancing the super-heroes stuff with relationship drama. I found myself still invested in Mark's relationship with his mom and girlfriend Amber, even though it was very Silver-Agey. Like the Flash, Mark has to wrestle with whether he should tell her he's a superhero or not. It also reminded me of Spider-Man. Kirkman pulls from these classic archetypes in a fun way. Unfortunately I missed the urgency of Vol. 1, and the way that Kirkman defied expectations. Sometimes it was pretty predictable. Also I got pretty tired of all the expositional dialogue. I'd have preferred more showing, less telling.
Previous Volume Review: Invincible Vol. 1
Comic Series Info: Invincible
The Reading List
Books
Dangerous Laughter
The Game of Their Lives
Magazine
Vanity Fair
Comic
Captain America #49
Check Out Count: Gonna get better.
Comic Pull List: Daredevil #118, Detective Comics #853, Dynamo 5 #21, New Avengers #52, Outsiders #17, Trinity #47
Have a great week! Book Slave.
2009-04-14
Just let the sun come down on me.
Hello,
Today the rain is endlessly gloomy. It won't stop. What a bummer. I've found myself all week distracted. Flitting from book pile to book pile unable to settle on anything. It must be the promise of spring, if it will ever consistently come.
Previously I've mentioned that PBS is currently showing an excellent BBC adaptation of Little Dorrit by Charles Dickens. Breathlessly I've been watching this miniseries and I highly recommend it. It's so topical in these economical times. If you've had to miss an episode or two they are available to view here for free. Also I've enjoyed the guest blog reviews over at Egalitarian Bookworm and comment over there after each episode. Check those out here.
Reviews
JSA: The Golden Age
It is generally agreed that the Golden age of comics began in 1938 w/the appearance of Superman #1. After that comics became mostly about superheroes until comics were shut down by the Hays Office in the mid-fifties. It was The Flash that ushered in The Bronze Age in 1956. In his 4 issue mini-series JSA: The Golden Age writer James Robinson brings back the Justice Society of America for a post-World War II reunion. I picked this up because I've loved Robinson's work on Starman and I heard this was a good intro to JSA. Boy is it. I really enjoyed this series. Although it is outside of continuity it brings in so many wonderful aspects of pre-realism comics. Robinson gives us great simple introductions to each character quickly using cool page layouts by artist Paul Smith. Although there is a lot of action, Robinson focuses on giving the characters "real" psychological human issues. My particular favorites were original Starman Ted Knight, who has a mental breakdown, and Liberty Bell, a woman who feels trapped in a bad relationship. The problem I had with this series is that I don't think that it was long enough. There is a lot of wrap up in issue 4 which I think could have been been decompressed. Perhaps may 6-8 issues would've meant less exposition writing and more Ted Knight.
Comic Info: Justice Society of America, Golden Age comics
The Reading List
Books
Game of Their Lives
I Led Three Lives
Magazine
Four Four Two
Comics
Trinity #44
Check Out Count: Not as good as it could be.
Comic Pull List: Action Comics #876, Fables #83, Green Arrow Black Canary #19, Incognito #3, Oracle #2, Stand American Nightmares #2, Trinity #46
Have a great week! Book Slave.
Today the rain is endlessly gloomy. It won't stop. What a bummer. I've found myself all week distracted. Flitting from book pile to book pile unable to settle on anything. It must be the promise of spring, if it will ever consistently come.
Previously I've mentioned that PBS is currently showing an excellent BBC adaptation of Little Dorrit by Charles Dickens. Breathlessly I've been watching this miniseries and I highly recommend it. It's so topical in these economical times. If you've had to miss an episode or two they are available to view here for free. Also I've enjoyed the guest blog reviews over at Egalitarian Bookworm and comment over there after each episode. Check those out here.
Reviews
JSA: The Golden Age
It is generally agreed that the Golden age of comics began in 1938 w/the appearance of Superman #1. After that comics became mostly about superheroes until comics were shut down by the Hays Office in the mid-fifties. It was The Flash that ushered in The Bronze Age in 1956. In his 4 issue mini-series JSA: The Golden Age writer James Robinson brings back the Justice Society of America for a post-World War II reunion. I picked this up because I've loved Robinson's work on Starman and I heard this was a good intro to JSA. Boy is it. I really enjoyed this series. Although it is outside of continuity it brings in so many wonderful aspects of pre-realism comics. Robinson gives us great simple introductions to each character quickly using cool page layouts by artist Paul Smith. Although there is a lot of action, Robinson focuses on giving the characters "real" psychological human issues. My particular favorites were original Starman Ted Knight, who has a mental breakdown, and Liberty Bell, a woman who feels trapped in a bad relationship. The problem I had with this series is that I don't think that it was long enough. There is a lot of wrap up in issue 4 which I think could have been been decompressed. Perhaps may 6-8 issues would've meant less exposition writing and more Ted Knight.
Comic Info: Justice Society of America, Golden Age comics
The Reading List
Books
Game of Their Lives
I Led Three Lives
Magazine
Four Four Two
Comics
Trinity #44
Check Out Count: Not as good as it could be.
Comic Pull List: Action Comics #876, Fables #83, Green Arrow Black Canary #19, Incognito #3, Oracle #2, Stand American Nightmares #2, Trinity #46
Have a great week! Book Slave.
2009-04-07
Penelope and Me
Hello world o'the webs,
I hope you all had a great weekend. Here the schizophrenic weather continues. One day it's snowing, the next day it's in the 60's. Makes me want to go outside and walk, but then I feel the need to take a jacket. Because you never know man. This week my library started it's staff book sale. It's an awesome perk to be able to pick over the books before the public. This year because of my financial sit (and well to be honest do I really need more books? No. ) I had to show a lot of restraint. It was hard but I managed it. Due to the new job some money's gonna be flowing again so we'll see how long that restraint lasts. Anyway Onward!
Reviews
The Penelopiad
I’ve been meaning to read this book for some time. In fact long time readers might remember seeing this book on The Reading List way back at the beginning of this blog. The Odyssey is one of my favorite stories of all time. I love the epic-ness of the story. Odysseus is lost for 10 years, meanwhile his faithful wife Penelope fends off horrible suitors. This book is a part of The Myths series which re-imagines classic tales. I’ve already read The Weight written by Jeanette Winterson and I liked it. So picking up this book I had a lot of expectations. For 3/4s of the book I was satisfied.
Atwood strongly conveys the story from Penelope’s viewpoint with a fair share of modernism thrown in. Atwood uses the situation to comment on how women treat one another. I really enjoyed the antagonistic relationship between Penelope and the woman around her, especially her sister Helen. This emphasizes Penelope’s isolation as a smart, morally grounded, and faithful woman, in a patriarchic society. Atwood clearly wants to challenge the paradigms at work in this story. She portrays Penelope as a victim of the world that she lives in.
It is because of the strong portrayal of Penelope that I was annoyed whenever the story strayed away. Atwood attempts to use Penelope’s 12 maids, who are killed by Odysseus for sleeping with the suitors, as a counter chorus. I know that she is trying to use the classical style, but I didn’t feel it was necessary. Especially in the final chapters where the story shifts focus as Penelope feels guilt for their deaths. Atwood is mighty accusatory here, but really I don’t see the point. It is pretty clear that there is nothing that Penelope could have done to save them. In this patriarchal society Penelope is as powerless as the maids, and it was Odysseus who did the killing. So I enjoyed most of the story but I wish Atwood would have just stuck with Penelope.
Other Reviews
The Complete Review | NPR | About.com
The Reading List
Books
Starman Omnibus Vol. 2
12 Caesars
Comics
Echo #9
Magazines
Four Four Two
Check Out Count: *turn and run away in shame*
Comic Pull List: Captain Britain And Mi 13 #12, Green Lantern #39, Northlanders #16, Secret Six #8, Superman World Of New Krypton #2, Terry Moores Echo #11, Trinity #45
Have a great week! Book Slave.
I hope you all had a great weekend. Here the schizophrenic weather continues. One day it's snowing, the next day it's in the 60's. Makes me want to go outside and walk, but then I feel the need to take a jacket. Because you never know man. This week my library started it's staff book sale. It's an awesome perk to be able to pick over the books before the public. This year because of my financial sit (and well to be honest do I really need more books? No. ) I had to show a lot of restraint. It was hard but I managed it. Due to the new job some money's gonna be flowing again so we'll see how long that restraint lasts. Anyway Onward!
Reviews
The Penelopiad
I’ve been meaning to read this book for some time. In fact long time readers might remember seeing this book on The Reading List way back at the beginning of this blog. The Odyssey is one of my favorite stories of all time. I love the epic-ness of the story. Odysseus is lost for 10 years, meanwhile his faithful wife Penelope fends off horrible suitors. This book is a part of The Myths series which re-imagines classic tales. I’ve already read The Weight written by Jeanette Winterson and I liked it. So picking up this book I had a lot of expectations. For 3/4s of the book I was satisfied.
Atwood strongly conveys the story from Penelope’s viewpoint with a fair share of modernism thrown in. Atwood uses the situation to comment on how women treat one another. I really enjoyed the antagonistic relationship between Penelope and the woman around her, especially her sister Helen. This emphasizes Penelope’s isolation as a smart, morally grounded, and faithful woman, in a patriarchic society. Atwood clearly wants to challenge the paradigms at work in this story. She portrays Penelope as a victim of the world that she lives in.
It is because of the strong portrayal of Penelope that I was annoyed whenever the story strayed away. Atwood attempts to use Penelope’s 12 maids, who are killed by Odysseus for sleeping with the suitors, as a counter chorus. I know that she is trying to use the classical style, but I didn’t feel it was necessary. Especially in the final chapters where the story shifts focus as Penelope feels guilt for their deaths. Atwood is mighty accusatory here, but really I don’t see the point. It is pretty clear that there is nothing that Penelope could have done to save them. In this patriarchal society Penelope is as powerless as the maids, and it was Odysseus who did the killing. So I enjoyed most of the story but I wish Atwood would have just stuck with Penelope.
Other Reviews
The Complete Review | NPR | About.com
The Reading List
Books
Starman Omnibus Vol. 2
12 Caesars
Comics
Echo #9
Magazines
Four Four Two
Check Out Count: *turn and run away in shame*
Comic Pull List: Captain Britain And Mi 13 #12, Green Lantern #39, Northlanders #16, Secret Six #8, Superman World Of New Krypton #2, Terry Moores Echo #11, Trinity #45
Have a great week! Book Slave.
2009-03-31
For the love of superheroes and free alcohol.
Hello folks,
I hope you are all having a great week. Where I am the weather keeps messing with us all. One moment it's sunny, the next it's snowing. What the hell man? Again I just want to know what's coming, that's all I ask.
Book Club tonight was another lively discussion. This was also fueled by free alcohol, for which I was very grateful. Thanks Zach! I was very glad to see some old friends and also meet some cool new people. I've been going to this club for six months and it's always been fun. I know that soon the club will have to move to a new space sometime within the next few months. I hope that it's still in reasonable proximity, so I can go. We'll just have to see.
Also I wanted to remind folks that PBS has started airing BBC's Little Dorrit. I watched Part One last weekend and found it very intriquing. There are a lot of different characters and threads, but man it's going to be 5 parts long. I can't wait to see how all the threads come together. If you missed it PBS is airing Part One online this week. I'd suggest checking it out, here.
Anyway Onward!
Reviews
Astro City Vol. 1
I highly enjoyed this first trade. Kurt Busiek loves superheroes. That comes out loud and clear in this series which is a deconstruction/celebration of the comic mythos. Like Alan Moore's Watchmen, Astro City showcases a world where superheroes exist. Each issue tells a stand alone story from one POV. However Busiek rather than showing the dark side focuses on the positive, paying homage to the comics of the silver age. This is a great companion to Marvels, which was also written/drawn by the team of Busiek & Ross. As much as I love the grim reality of Watchmen it is great to soar in the world of Astro City.
Other Reviews
Mervi's Book Reviews
Bodega Dreams
This was my book club book this month. I definitely wouldn't have picked it up myself. It took me about half-way thru the book for me to understand what Quinonez is getting at. This book is clearly meant to be a microcosm of the two groups trying to take over Spanish Harlem. On one side you have the rigidness of the Pentecostal/christian religious influence of Blanca's church and on the other side the evil capitalism of Willie Bodega. Chino, the protagonist, is caught in the middle of the two sides. He believes in Bodega's dream of the rise of a Puerto-Rican professional class, but knows that Bodega is far from altruistic. Chino sees the world as a place where nothing is completely free. There is always a catch or a favor owed for any good deed. I was impressed by Quinonez's ability to capture the world of Spanish Harlem. There is a clear distinct use of language that is necessary to understand the educational hierarchy. The more "street" that you are the more the dialogue becomes colloquial, where as professionals like Nazarrio speak in clear English. If there is a fault with this book is that it is very traditional in it's narrative. I think it would have benefited from more experimentation like South by South Bronx. Perhaps a use of First person, instead of flashback, would have lended the story more urgency. As it is I thought the ending was quite a good twist and felt it was well set up all along. I'm interested to see where Quinonez goes next.
Other Reviews
Salon Books | Entertainment Weekly
All Star Superman Vol. 2
Grant Morrison defies definition. In one book he can write one of the craziest stories you've ever read, see Kill Your Boyfriend and the Invisibles series, and then in another he can write the most traditional superhero book ever. In this series he writes the clearest, best version of Superman I've read on the page. In the All-Star Superman series Kal-el is not interested in dominating the human race, he believes in all the good that we are capable of. It's pure classic silver age comics. I particularly loved the Bizarro style issue, where Superman desperately tries to co-opt the most infuriating comic race ever. One should also take notice of the amazing art by Frank Quitely. Check out this series, it will fill you with joy.
Past Reviews: All Star Superman Vol. 1
Other Reviews
Ifanboy | blogcritics
The Reading List
Books
Penelopiad
The 12 Caesars
Comics
Trinity #43
Magazine
Time
Check Out Count: Far too High.
Comic Pull List: Buffy The Vampire Slayer #24, Deadpool #9, Flash Rebirth #1, Trinity #44
Have a great week! Book Slave.
I hope you are all having a great week. Where I am the weather keeps messing with us all. One moment it's sunny, the next it's snowing. What the hell man? Again I just want to know what's coming, that's all I ask.
Book Club tonight was another lively discussion. This was also fueled by free alcohol, for which I was very grateful. Thanks Zach! I was very glad to see some old friends and also meet some cool new people. I've been going to this club for six months and it's always been fun. I know that soon the club will have to move to a new space sometime within the next few months. I hope that it's still in reasonable proximity, so I can go. We'll just have to see.
Also I wanted to remind folks that PBS has started airing BBC's Little Dorrit. I watched Part One last weekend and found it very intriquing. There are a lot of different characters and threads, but man it's going to be 5 parts long. I can't wait to see how all the threads come together. If you missed it PBS is airing Part One online this week. I'd suggest checking it out, here.
Anyway Onward!
Reviews
Astro City Vol. 1
I highly enjoyed this first trade. Kurt Busiek loves superheroes. That comes out loud and clear in this series which is a deconstruction/celebration of the comic mythos. Like Alan Moore's Watchmen, Astro City showcases a world where superheroes exist. Each issue tells a stand alone story from one POV. However Busiek rather than showing the dark side focuses on the positive, paying homage to the comics of the silver age. This is a great companion to Marvels, which was also written/drawn by the team of Busiek & Ross. As much as I love the grim reality of Watchmen it is great to soar in the world of Astro City.
Other Reviews
Mervi's Book Reviews
Bodega Dreams
This was my book club book this month. I definitely wouldn't have picked it up myself. It took me about half-way thru the book for me to understand what Quinonez is getting at. This book is clearly meant to be a microcosm of the two groups trying to take over Spanish Harlem. On one side you have the rigidness of the Pentecostal/christian religious influence of Blanca's church and on the other side the evil capitalism of Willie Bodega. Chino, the protagonist, is caught in the middle of the two sides. He believes in Bodega's dream of the rise of a Puerto-Rican professional class, but knows that Bodega is far from altruistic. Chino sees the world as a place where nothing is completely free. There is always a catch or a favor owed for any good deed. I was impressed by Quinonez's ability to capture the world of Spanish Harlem. There is a clear distinct use of language that is necessary to understand the educational hierarchy. The more "street" that you are the more the dialogue becomes colloquial, where as professionals like Nazarrio speak in clear English. If there is a fault with this book is that it is very traditional in it's narrative. I think it would have benefited from more experimentation like South by South Bronx. Perhaps a use of First person, instead of flashback, would have lended the story more urgency. As it is I thought the ending was quite a good twist and felt it was well set up all along. I'm interested to see where Quinonez goes next.
Other Reviews
Salon Books | Entertainment Weekly
All Star Superman Vol. 2
Grant Morrison defies definition. In one book he can write one of the craziest stories you've ever read, see Kill Your Boyfriend and the Invisibles series, and then in another he can write the most traditional superhero book ever. In this series he writes the clearest, best version of Superman I've read on the page. In the All-Star Superman series Kal-el is not interested in dominating the human race, he believes in all the good that we are capable of. It's pure classic silver age comics. I particularly loved the Bizarro style issue, where Superman desperately tries to co-opt the most infuriating comic race ever. One should also take notice of the amazing art by Frank Quitely. Check out this series, it will fill you with joy.
Past Reviews: All Star Superman Vol. 1
Other Reviews
Ifanboy | blogcritics
The Reading List
Books
Penelopiad
The 12 Caesars
Comics
Trinity #43
Magazine
Time
Check Out Count: Far too High.
Comic Pull List: Buffy The Vampire Slayer #24, Deadpool #9, Flash Rebirth #1, Trinity #44
Have a great week! Book Slave.
2008-09-23
Opportunity Knocks.
Hello world,
Is it wrong that I love the fact that this morning it was a little nippy? I cannot wait for scarves, gloves, and thick socks. It may shock some but fall here in the City of Salt is actually kind of awesome. Sure by December and January I'll be cursing snow, ice, and frigid cold, but now I am waiting in anticipation. Fall! Onward!
This week some life happened. Some opportunities have come around and I'm pretty stoked. Because of this I had to change some of my reading plans. So no reviews this week but definitely there will be next week.
Announcements
Hey so because of a change in schedule I finally have the chance to join a book club. One of my co-workers the mysterious Zach Sampinos started the Hard Boiled Book Club. You can read about it here. Sampinos is a pretty interesting fellow, here's an interview with him here. Anyway because of scheduling I'm now able to join. It has been awhile since I've been in a book group and I've missed it. So we'll see how this works out.
What's In My Bag
Books
Twilight of the Superheroes
X Saves the World
Magazines
Four Four Two
Comic
Deadpool #1
Checkout Count: 2 steps forward, 3 steps back.
Comic Pull List:Daredevil #111, Deadpool #2, Fables #76, New Avengers #45, Powers #30, Runaways 3 #2, Superman #680, Trinity #17
Have a great week! Peace Out Y'All! Book Slave.
Is it wrong that I love the fact that this morning it was a little nippy? I cannot wait for scarves, gloves, and thick socks. It may shock some but fall here in the City of Salt is actually kind of awesome. Sure by December and January I'll be cursing snow, ice, and frigid cold, but now I am waiting in anticipation. Fall! Onward!
This week some life happened. Some opportunities have come around and I'm pretty stoked. Because of this I had to change some of my reading plans. So no reviews this week but definitely there will be next week.
Announcements
Hey so because of a change in schedule I finally have the chance to join a book club. One of my co-workers the mysterious Zach Sampinos started the Hard Boiled Book Club. You can read about it here. Sampinos is a pretty interesting fellow, here's an interview with him here. Anyway because of scheduling I'm now able to join. It has been awhile since I've been in a book group and I've missed it. So we'll see how this works out.
What's In My Bag
Books
Twilight of the Superheroes
X Saves the World
Magazines
Four Four Two
Comic
Deadpool #1
Checkout Count: 2 steps forward, 3 steps back.
Comic Pull List:Daredevil #111, Deadpool #2, Fables #76, New Avengers #45, Powers #30, Runaways 3 #2, Superman #680, Trinity #17
Have a great week! Peace Out Y'All! Book Slave.
2008-09-10
Rainy weather makes me thoughtful
Hey world,
It's me, I'm here to say hello. I find myself oddly loving the cloudy drizzle outside. I'm not usually a fan of rainy weather, yet I guess I can't wait for fall. I'm sure I'll be cursing the weather gods soon enough. It's been an odd couple of days. Not sure what the future holds. But don't worry I won't abandon you gentle reader. Let's move precariously forward shall we?
Reviews
Astonishing X-Men Vol. 3 & 4
Yes, I finished up this great series from Joss Whedon. The X-Men is generally known as a superhero soap opera. I think that the reason why this series is so awesome is because it maintains it's focus on the characters rather than melodrama. In Vol. 3 each X-Man is led to their darkest psychological places and it is genuinely intense. I found myself caring about Scott Summers aka Cyclops. Cyclops is usually written as really boring when compared to the flashier Wolverine. Whedon brings out the awesome in Cyclops and shows us why he is the leader. This is strengthened by his relationship with femme fatale Emma Frost. Is she really good? Is she faking? Whedon does more than make it a simple answer of yes or no. Emma Frost has her own twisted psychological problems that make her a real character. Emma Frost and Scott Summers are one of the best couples in comics because they both understand their imperfections. Also I have to say that the humor, especially in the scenes with Wolverine, is laugh out loud funny. A very enjoyable series.
What's In My Bag
Books
Bel Canto
Books
Comics
Justice Machine #1
Magazines
Sports Illustrated
Check Out Count: Things are looking up.
Comic Pull List: Criminal 2 #5, Deadpool #1, Dynamo 5 #16, Final Crisis Revelations #2, Goon #28, Green Arrow Black Canary #12, Secret Invasion #6, Secret Invasion Runaways Young Avengers #3, Stand Captain Trips #1, Trinity #15, Wonder Woman #24.
Have an awesome week! Go England! Book Slave.
It's me, I'm here to say hello. I find myself oddly loving the cloudy drizzle outside. I'm not usually a fan of rainy weather, yet I guess I can't wait for fall. I'm sure I'll be cursing the weather gods soon enough. It's been an odd couple of days. Not sure what the future holds. But don't worry I won't abandon you gentle reader. Let's move precariously forward shall we?
Reviews
Astonishing X-Men Vol. 3 & 4
Yes, I finished up this great series from Joss Whedon. The X-Men is generally known as a superhero soap opera. I think that the reason why this series is so awesome is because it maintains it's focus on the characters rather than melodrama. In Vol. 3 each X-Man is led to their darkest psychological places and it is genuinely intense. I found myself caring about Scott Summers aka Cyclops. Cyclops is usually written as really boring when compared to the flashier Wolverine. Whedon brings out the awesome in Cyclops and shows us why he is the leader. This is strengthened by his relationship with femme fatale Emma Frost. Is she really good? Is she faking? Whedon does more than make it a simple answer of yes or no. Emma Frost has her own twisted psychological problems that make her a real character. Emma Frost and Scott Summers are one of the best couples in comics because they both understand their imperfections. Also I have to say that the humor, especially in the scenes with Wolverine, is laugh out loud funny. A very enjoyable series.
What's In My Bag
Books
Bel Canto
Books
Comics
Justice Machine #1
Magazines
Sports Illustrated
Check Out Count: Things are looking up.
Comic Pull List: Criminal 2 #5, Deadpool #1, Dynamo 5 #16, Final Crisis Revelations #2, Goon #28, Green Arrow Black Canary #12, Secret Invasion #6, Secret Invasion Runaways Young Avengers #3, Stand Captain Trips #1, Trinity #15, Wonder Woman #24.
Have an awesome week! Go England! Book Slave.
2008-06-17
Hot Time! Summer in the City!
Hello,
Yes I now live in an oven. It's the consequence of being surrounded by concrete I suppose. At least I work in air conditioned buildings. On days like today you couldn't pay me to be a construction worker.
On another front I am currently obsessed with Euro2008. Two international games a day! I'm in Heaven! However this does cut down on my reading time so rather than give you a short entry today I'm gonna combine entries. I've promised you a special focus on the book Quiet Please by Scott Douglas so I'm gonna throw it in here. Don't worry you'll also get a review and current reading list. Just gonna throw in a little extra. So let's get it going already!
Special Focus: Quiet Please
When I heard about this memoir I had to pick it up. Quiet Please: Dispatches from a Public Librarian written by Scott Douglas tells the story of a young man who starts out as a lowly page in the Anaheim Public library system. He decides reluctantly to become a librarian and the book chronicles his journey through 6 years of service. A little autobiography and context to start off. As any constant reader may surmise I spend some of my days as an assistant librarian. I have spent the majority of my life in libraries because my mom has served, and continues to do so, as a librarian for 30 years. Her dedication to public service deserves to be admired, and I am happy to follow her lead.
As I read this book I was struck by the author's raw, sometimes bitter, honesty about everything. This includes his fellow co-workers, patrons, and enemies. Having worked in libraries myself I often laughed and empathized with Douglas. His no hold barred honesty was refreshing and I think eye-opening.
In my opinion every librarian working today should read this memoir. Many co-workers I've had, young and old, have been burned-out by the negative experiences that they've had. Instead of glossing over those experiences Douglas brings them to light. When he states that he often fears that one of his patron will kill him he is half serious. Poignantly he discusses how there are problem patrons that drive him crazy, but he misses them when they disappear. These chapters were enjoyable and eye-opening.
I took Douglas's commentary to heart, especially when a co-worker reminds him "never to put himself above the public." Librarians are "public servants"-a fact that I think is often forgotten. Again I think that all librarians should read this book. I can't recommend it highly enough.
FYI Scott Douglas blogs here. Check it out.
Reviews
DC Comic Guide to Writing Comics
This instructional book by legendary comic writer Dennis O'Neill was very interesting and informative. I recommend this book to any teen/adult who wants to write comics. O'Neill offers technical and story advice in an easy fun format. He also includes great examples from real comics, however I would like to see an updated version that includes 52, a weekly series, or mega-events that are common today.
What's In My Bag
Comic
Rasl #1
Magazine
Film Comment
Books
Assassination Vacation
Suspicions of Mr. Whicher
Check Out Count: Under Control. I hope.
Alright time to sit in front of the fan and watch nations collide on the soccer field of battle. Enjoy! Book Slave.
Yes I now live in an oven. It's the consequence of being surrounded by concrete I suppose. At least I work in air conditioned buildings. On days like today you couldn't pay me to be a construction worker.
On another front I am currently obsessed with Euro2008. Two international games a day! I'm in Heaven! However this does cut down on my reading time so rather than give you a short entry today I'm gonna combine entries. I've promised you a special focus on the book Quiet Please by Scott Douglas so I'm gonna throw it in here. Don't worry you'll also get a review and current reading list. Just gonna throw in a little extra. So let's get it going already!
Special Focus: Quiet Please
When I heard about this memoir I had to pick it up. Quiet Please: Dispatches from a Public Librarian written by Scott Douglas tells the story of a young man who starts out as a lowly page in the Anaheim Public library system. He decides reluctantly to become a librarian and the book chronicles his journey through 6 years of service. A little autobiography and context to start off. As any constant reader may surmise I spend some of my days as an assistant librarian. I have spent the majority of my life in libraries because my mom has served, and continues to do so, as a librarian for 30 years. Her dedication to public service deserves to be admired, and I am happy to follow her lead.
As I read this book I was struck by the author's raw, sometimes bitter, honesty about everything. This includes his fellow co-workers, patrons, and enemies. Having worked in libraries myself I often laughed and empathized with Douglas. His no hold barred honesty was refreshing and I think eye-opening.
In my opinion every librarian working today should read this memoir. Many co-workers I've had, young and old, have been burned-out by the negative experiences that they've had. Instead of glossing over those experiences Douglas brings them to light. When he states that he often fears that one of his patron will kill him he is half serious. Poignantly he discusses how there are problem patrons that drive him crazy, but he misses them when they disappear. These chapters were enjoyable and eye-opening.
I took Douglas's commentary to heart, especially when a co-worker reminds him "never to put himself above the public." Librarians are "public servants"-a fact that I think is often forgotten. Again I think that all librarians should read this book. I can't recommend it highly enough.
FYI Scott Douglas blogs here. Check it out.
Reviews
DC Comic Guide to Writing Comics
This instructional book by legendary comic writer Dennis O'Neill was very interesting and informative. I recommend this book to any teen/adult who wants to write comics. O'Neill offers technical and story advice in an easy fun format. He also includes great examples from real comics, however I would like to see an updated version that includes 52, a weekly series, or mega-events that are common today.
What's In My Bag
Comic
Rasl #1
Magazine
Film Comment
Books
Assassination Vacation
Suspicions of Mr. Whicher
Check Out Count: Under Control. I hope.
Alright time to sit in front of the fan and watch nations collide on the soccer field of battle. Enjoy! Book Slave.
2008-05-20
Getting my "read-on"
Hello,
Summer has finally come here with a vengeance. It is awesome. I have also had the opportunity to get my "read-on" so here we go!
Reviews
Scott Pilgrim Vol. 4
This volume is subtitled "Scott Pilgrim Gets It Together" and he does indeed. As the titular subject of this series I have often found myself amused and frustrated by Scott's immaturity. I am so glad that O'Malley finally shows some growth and change. He gets a job, a new place to live, and continues to woo the mysterious Ramona Flowers. I have loved the humor and "video-game" style of this series. It definitely is unique. While this is not my favorite of the series, (shame on O'Malley for gimmicky lesbianism) I still found myself laughing out loud. Favorite line:"Scott, if your life had a face, I would punch it. I would punch your life in the face." Bwah!
Armageddon in Retrospect
As is usually the case, this last collection of unpublished stories is a mixed bag. Vonnegut is at his best when he is discussing the evils of war. Being grounded in real experience I was shocked at his accounts of men being driven to the brink. He reminds us that there is no "good war." Some of the more oblique stories didn't hold my interest as much. Still worth a read, especially at this moment.
League of Extraordinary Gentlemen Vol. 2
This rip-roaring sequel brings our team together to fight a martian invasion. It also seems that there is a traitor within their own group. The "war of the worlds" plot provides action, however this volume is more about character moments. I loved the psychological insight into the character of Mr. Hyde. Moore continues to write amazingly complex characters. As a writer he is willing to take great chances. He doesn't settle for soft characterizations and easy redemptions. Unfortunately Moore leaves us with a cliffhanger that he still hasn't resolved five years later. Why do you hate me Alan Moore? Why?
What's In My Bag
Books
Always Outnumbered, Always Outgunned
A Fine Brush on Ivory
Comics
Detective Comics #844
Magazine
Film Comment
Check Out Count: Far Less Insane
Have an excellent Memorial Day Weekend! Book Slave.
Summer has finally come here with a vengeance. It is awesome. I have also had the opportunity to get my "read-on" so here we go!
Reviews
Scott Pilgrim Vol. 4
This volume is subtitled "Scott Pilgrim Gets It Together" and he does indeed. As the titular subject of this series I have often found myself amused and frustrated by Scott's immaturity. I am so glad that O'Malley finally shows some growth and change. He gets a job, a new place to live, and continues to woo the mysterious Ramona Flowers. I have loved the humor and "video-game" style of this series. It definitely is unique. While this is not my favorite of the series, (shame on O'Malley for gimmicky lesbianism) I still found myself laughing out loud. Favorite line:"Scott, if your life had a face, I would punch it. I would punch your life in the face." Bwah!
Armageddon in Retrospect
As is usually the case, this last collection of unpublished stories is a mixed bag. Vonnegut is at his best when he is discussing the evils of war. Being grounded in real experience I was shocked at his accounts of men being driven to the brink. He reminds us that there is no "good war." Some of the more oblique stories didn't hold my interest as much. Still worth a read, especially at this moment.
League of Extraordinary Gentlemen Vol. 2
This rip-roaring sequel brings our team together to fight a martian invasion. It also seems that there is a traitor within their own group. The "war of the worlds" plot provides action, however this volume is more about character moments. I loved the psychological insight into the character of Mr. Hyde. Moore continues to write amazingly complex characters. As a writer he is willing to take great chances. He doesn't settle for soft characterizations and easy redemptions. Unfortunately Moore leaves us with a cliffhanger that he still hasn't resolved five years later. Why do you hate me Alan Moore? Why?
What's In My Bag
Books
Always Outnumbered, Always Outgunned
A Fine Brush on Ivory
Comics
Detective Comics #844
Magazine
Film Comment
Check Out Count: Far Less Insane
Have an excellent Memorial Day Weekend! Book Slave.
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