Bookshelves

Hello,
Bookshelves. They fill up so quick, especially if you are a bookaholic like I am. I thought today I would share some pics of my own.

Here's my main "these are the books I keep forever" bookshelf.

Now you ask what happens when I find new favorites and am out of room? That's when I weed ruthlessly. I only keep books that I know I will read again. Anything else hits the deck.

Here's another stack. These are those "life changing books" that I referred to here:

(BTW The skull is just for show.)

So have a great weekend! Book Slave.

Austen and Socrates

Hello blog-o-sphere,
I had an excellent memorial day weekend. It included an entire day when all I did was watch a series of historical docs that blew my mind and read. Highly recommend it to all.
Well let's get it on, baby (not like that you dirty birds!).

Reviews
A Fine Brush On Ivory
This was a sojourn into high-brow literary criticism that took me back to my English Lit student days. Jenkyn's literary analysis of the six novels of Jane Austen is not for the weak. It definitely exercised my intellectual muscles. It should be noted that Jenkyn subtitles this "an appreciation," this shows that he is clearly a fan of Austen's work. His enthusiasm is apparent in his writing, especially when discussing Pride and Prejudice. While I don't buy some of his assertions, I did find this an in-depth critical read for Austen fans.

Always Outnumbered, Always Outgunned
Having read his well-known novel Devil in a Blue Dress I decided to pick up another of his series. Devil and this book are about man's struggle with violence in a society that is against them. Socrates Fortlow, an ex-convict, struggles daily against his base nature. Throughout these short vignettes Fortlow is shown trying to help people. But it never comes off as "The Fugitive" due to Mosley's stark realism. I enjoyed this work immensely and will look out for other books in the Fortlow series.

What's in My Bag
Graphic Novels
Essex County #1: Tales From the Farm
Batman: The Long Halloween

Comic
Wonder Woman #19

Magazine
Four Four Two

Check Out Count: Aaaahhh!

Have a great weekend all! Book Slave.

Pic for the Weekend

Hello,
I just couldn't help but share this. For those who have read League of Extraordinary Gentleman (reviewed here, and here) I tell you the Invisible Man Lives!


Have a great weekend! Book Slave.

Critic Proof

Hello,
Felt a little neglected? My humble apologies. Life does get in the way. Well here's a surprise post!

There are some author's that I will pick up no matter what the critics say. These authors to me are critic-proof. As you may have picked up already I currently work in a large independent bookstore. I've worked in "books" for a little more than 8 years. At one time it was part of my job to pick and choose what new books my store would get in. Because of this I got into the constant habit of knowing what books were coming out, and whether they had any buzz about them or interest. I also keep track of trends and what well-known authors are up to. Even though I am not a buyer anymore I still compulsively keep track of what's up. Occasionally I get a surprise, we don't all have crystal balls to look into.

However as I said at the beginning there are authors and subjects that will always get my attention no matter what anyone says.

Here's a short list:

Ian McEwan
I will read any book put out by this amazing author.

Alan Moore
As I've said before-Everyone should read all his graphic novels. They are incredible, literate, and often mind-blowing.

John Le Carre Espionage
I love spy stories. However I am more interested in intricate plots, grey old man spies, and moral ambiguities. Don't get me wrong James Bond is awesome, however I want my Espionage with meat. Le Carre, as a former company man, brings the breadth of his experience to these tales. He is not afraid to expose to dark underbelly. Everyone should read "The Constant Gardener."

Jane Austen
Revisionism be damned. Her stories are funny, romantic, and revolutionary. There's more going on than "women talking in drawing rooms." Austen, mind you she was not college educated, was the first to publish stories with a narrative voice. You can hear her voice/personal commentary within the story. She is a character herself; a reader feels as if Jane is a personal friend. This is why she is Jane, and not Miss Austen.

Cormac McCarthy
His books are integral discussions of the human condition. McCarthy is dark and raw. I can't wait for his next book.

These author's I would never miss. Have a great weekend! Book Slave.

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.

Sleepwalking

Hello,
A short entry this week for you all. I had a writing assignment all week (yes I don't just write for you all) so that put a dent into my reading/sleeping time. Yes I am quite exhausted. So no reviews this week. Apologies. However, in its place I will reccommend an awesome podcast. I've spoken about podcasts earlier. I'm quite obsessed. This new podcast is titled Books You Should Read. It's put out by the fine folks over at Simply Syndicated in the UK. The fun difference in this book podcast is that it invites anyone to record their own 10-15 minute book review. This means that listeners have the opportunity to talk about the books they enjoy and the passion is evident. I have really enjoyed it thus far so I thought I would throw it out to you all. Check it out.

What's In My Bag
Books
Armageddon in Retrospect
Always Outnumbered, Always Outgunned

Magazines
People

Comic
Buffy #13

Check Out Count: Far too much.

Have a great week. I need some sleep. Book Slave.

Some essentials and a little autobiography...

Hello,
Today I was helping a patron find a copy of The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton and I got to thinking. This title, which I have not picked up for at least 10 years, had been a book that upon reading it had changed my view of the world. Those of us who are readers, especially us that are extreme, know that there are at least three types of books. (Now I know this is a major simplification, but just bear with me here.) There are "disposable" reads, such as romances or mysteries. These books give us comfort in their formulas and reaffirm to us that the world will be okay. Miss Marple always finds the killer. Love will always conquer all. Then there are "spinach" reads. You read the books because you feel as if you should. Sometimes "spinach" reads can surprise you. This happened to me with Winesburg, Ohio by Sherwood Anderson. I never expected to love it as much as I do when I picked it up. Same goes for Willa Cather. However you will never convince me that anyone reads Ethan From by choice. Ever.
And then there are books that are "life changing." These books are essential to our lives and inform are sensibilities. Sometimes I forget my phone number, but I remember the circumstances under which I picked up the following titles:
1. 1984 by George Orwell
I was coming home for the first time from college for Thanksgiving. I'd been away from home for the first extended period in my life and I was a bit homesick. While preparing for the trip I'd taken a spin through the massive school library. It was completely on a whim that I picked up 1984, figuring I needed something to read. Boy did I ever. For the trip home I jumped on a Greyhound at 7 am. The trip took 9 hours; that's almost triple what it takes in a car. Flipping open the book I was transported into the world of a totalitarian state. The fact that Winston Smith's only salvation is through insanity blew my mind. I am still captured by the mind-bendedness of the idea that "He who controls the past controls the future" and "He who controls the present controls the past." Finished the book on the trip back and have feared the government control of information ever since.

2. Slaughterhouse Five by Kurt Vonnegut
I picked up the book again on a whim. It was a part of a "Banned Books" display and I thought I would give it a try. I have always been a sucker for time travel stories but I found myself caught up in Billy Pilgrim's dilemma. He is a man lost in time. He is unable to stop the horrible events of his life. The horrors of Dresden, as the author experienced them first hand, made clear to me the futility of war. Vonnegut tells us here that there is no "right" war. Even World War II, for all it's nostalgia, was a horror to Vonnegut. He was nearly killed by his own country! I read the book in the space of 3 crazy days.

3. The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
Now I picked this up because I had heard about the movie. The movie is famous now because it had a lot of up and coming actors (like some guy named Tom Cruise). I had heard about it in relation to Francis Ford Coppola who I already worshiped because of The Godfather. BTW I'm also a major Cinephile, but that's for elsewhere. I picked up the book at the old library on the second floor (it's gone now) where they kept YA books in spinner racks. This always required a bit of a search because the books were not typically in order. I finally found a copy with some stylish 60s greasers on the front and a sticker touting a television series. (Indeed there was a short lived television series, unfortunately I never saw it) It was this book that taught me the real differences between economic classes. Ponyboy is smart, yet he comes from the poor side of town and is jumped by upper class Socs. At the time that I read this I didn't know that in a few years I would see the effects of economic difference. I went from a lower class elementary school to an upper class middle school. Lest I say the experience was humbling. Girls like Cherry Valance would not have been friends with me either. Again I retreated back to The Outsiders and it's optimistic ending.

Have a great morning! Book Slave.

Sublime baby Sublime

Hello,
Folks I dare say that summer is officially on! Perhaps I will take my book to the park...Sounds pretty awesome eh?

Reviews
Scalped Vol. 1
This was the most acclaimed and talked about new comic series last year so I had to pick it up. And it did not disappoint. Set on an Indian reservation we follow a Native American lawman who is not only battling corruption but also his own demons. In this first story arc he sets up the connections between the two main characters slowly. They are irrevocably tied together by a past that involves violence and death. I was pretty enthralled and highly recommend this to those who are looking for a character study. I will warn you that this story is definitely rated R. Not for the weak. Check it out, this is the future of comics.

X-Men: Days of Future Past
I decided to review this classic story arc from Chris Claremont because I had heard it name checked in regards to Heroes. In the future the X-Men have been hunted down by Super Sentinels and are about to face nuclear war. Only four X-Men remain: Logan, Ororo, Kate and her husband Peter, and are joined by a wheel-chair bound Magneto, Franklin Richards and his girlfriend, Rachel, a telepath. There last hope is to change the future by changing the past, when the Brotherhood of Evil Mutants murder presidential candidate Robert Kelly and others. To do this, Rachel sends the mind of Kate Pryde back to the present to inhabit her body at age 13. This was revolutionary at the time and brings an end to the Byrne/Claremont run. However, reading this story I was more impressed with the action art and high-concept ideas rather than the actual writing. These issues are horribly dated in their use of dialogue, clunky exposition, and characterizations. Claremont over-writes to the point of exhaustion. There's so many thought balloons. It's tough-going. So while I enjoyed the headiness of time travel and crazy action, it'll be awhile before I pick up another older classic issue.

Fables #72
This was Part 2 of a two issue series involving Cinderella. I highly enjoyed this action-oriented arc. Who knew that Cinderella is a super-spy? She kicks serious ass. There was also a backup preview for the new "House of mystery" title coming out this week. The art was great, the story not so much. I probably won't be picking it up. Still I'd reccommend picking this up for the "Cinderella" story.

What's In My Bag
Books
Armageddon In Retrospect
Always Outnumbered, Always Outgunned

Magazines
Comics Now!

Comics
Criminal 2 #2

Check out count: Crazy

"Summertime and the livings Easy" as Sublime says. Enjoy! Book Slave.

Difficult Management and Grand Theft Auto

Hello,
Today we are going to talk about a "difficult" topic that's pretty universal.
First some background: Management where I am employed has challenged me to improve staff relations in our department. How can I help us become more of a team? Now this is a difficult task in any industry, but especially difficult in a service industry like librarianship. Librarians serve the public on a long term basis. Let me tell you: working in a library is a pretty stable job. However it can take one bad patron experience to ruin your day.

(Now I warn you if this subject bores you to tears, then here's a fun treat, Enjoy)



Hopefully this will keep the teens occupied this weekend since the weather is turning nasty.(Hey teen services here's an idea: Grand Theft Auto tournament! Just throwing it out there)

Review and Some Library Applications

It is no surprise that over time negative experiences can create librarians that are known as crabs. One crab can then infect a whole team. So in order to gain some help in these matters I picked up a copy of "Dealing With Difficult People" written collaboratively by Harvard Business School Press. This book contains a series of short concise essays on the main topic. I was drawn by the promise of the timesaving guide logo on the cover. I found some chapters more easily applicable than others, whereas the latter half of the book was more geared toward managers/executives.

The most interesting/applicable chapter was titled "Crabs, Cranks, and Curmudgeons" written by Constantine von Hoffman. I highly agree with the notion that an effective manager must be able to use Emotional Intelligence (EI). EI is defined as "the capacity for recognizing our own feelings and those of others, for motivating ourselves and for managing emotions well in ourselves and our relationships with others. (38) How much of our judgements of our fellow co-workers is influenced by our own personal emotions? It is easier to change behaviors rather than personalities. Is that crab in your office a crab because it's their "way of life" or because of their position? Hoffman effectively emphasizes that it is a manager's job to ask these questions effectively and then make a plan of action. He emphasizes that it seems even worse to do nothing about it all.

Library applications: Look at your co-workers and use some EI to evaluate where you fit into your team.

Another effective chapter titled "Don't Just Do Something-Sit There" written by David Whitemyer discussed how to use conflicts to improve the interactions of the group. As a feminist I always get huffy about the idea that women are more apt to make "tempests out of teapots" whereas men just "have it out" and are done. I do find that a women driven industry such as librarianship it seems more difficult to resolve simple conflicts. It's up to the manager to decide when to step in and how to resolve. Whitemyer emphasizes the importance of the manager to realize the difference between institutional issues and interpersonal conflicts.

Library applications: Take a look and evaluate what team conflicts are resolvable through one-on-one dialogue. When does management need to step in?

The rest of the book centers around conflict resolution and performance appraisals. The heavy emphasis here indicates to me that these are the biggest issues for a manager. I also have a suspicion that the management book/coaching industry would have us believe this in order to sell books/seminars. Perhaps I am wrong. Managers are people too (I guess) especially in libraries. Libraries tend to have long-term employees and managers who do not want to "rock the boat." However I think that constant evaluation is the only way towards improvement. This book seems to emphasize that in it's final chapters. I found this book to be an easily concise and step-oriented book that I recommend to future managers.

Have an excellent Weekend! Book Slave.

Skrulls and More!

Hello,
It's been a good week. I hope y'all are doing well also. Onward!

Reviews
DMZ Vol. 1
Picked this up on strong reccommend from a fellow co-worker as well as Comic Geek Speak. It definitely lived up to my expectations as a very thought provoking read. The story involves a future where the US has going through a civil war. The two sides have agreed to create a DMZ out of NYC which has become a scary hell as a result. An intern Matt finds himself abandoned in NYC with only his camera equiptment, press pass, and survival skills. Writer Brian Wood and artist Riccardo Burchielli use strong post-9/11 overtones as well as striking imagery to shock the reader. This is not for the weak. I found myself highly invested in poor Matt's hellish situation as he descends into a modern Dante's Inferno. I also like how it showed a very positive view of the role of the press in our society. Matt decides to tell the real stories of what is going on in the DMZ outside of war-created propaganda. I definitely reccomend it to those looking for a mind-turning read.

Secret Invasion #1
Prince of Marvel Comics writer Brian Michael Bendis has been given the reigns to this major 2008 event and he delivers! I was swept up in this issue that kicks off an 8 issue arc that involves the Skrull infiltration of Earth. FYI Skrulls are a race of shapeshifters who can also absorb the powers of the person that they imitate. There is no known way to tell who is real and who is not. In the history of the Marvel Universe Skrulls have attempted to take over Earth several times but have been stymied. It looks like this time they might have a shot. The action is definitely kicked off in this issue. My favorite panel has to be the blowing up of the Baxter Building and the arrival of the spaceship full of superhero doppelgangers. Can't wait for the next issue.

What's in My Bag
Books
Always Outnumbered, Always Outgunned
Dealing with Difficult People
(look for a review on Thursday, I know, can't wait!)

Comic
The Goon #23

Magazine
Comics Now!

Check Out Count: Crazy

Have a great weekend! Book Slave.

Better late than Never

Hey, apologies for the lateness of this post. Sometimes the words aren't a-flowing as much as they should. So today's topic: Graphic Novels and Libraries.

In the library where I work I have come to love our graphic novel section. It has a wide variety of titles, several different genres, and is currently the second highest circulating items (behind AV materials, like DVDs, CDs, etc.). When I was first employed, I admit that my knowledge was somewhat limited. Due to this inexperience I dedicated myself to reading at least 10-12 a year. As I dug in further that number tripled. I also decided to look into the benefits of graphic novels when it comes to those who have reading difficulties. Kids with limited reading skills benefit from the combination of art and words. This helps with comprehension. Also the fact that these books are usually 100-150 pages long. As the reader is able to get through a series there confidence grows and they decide to raise the stakes quicker.

Let's also not forget that these stories are fun. Yeah I said it. The links to sci-fi and fantasy are obvious, however there is also an escapism. Entire new worlds are developed and histories created. Kids and adults can easily lose themselves in these stories. On the other hand, recent graphic novels have expanded their storytelling to the autobiographical. Modern classics along these lines include Persepolis, American Splendor, and Blankets. So readers get the best of all worlds.

I also decided to work on my fellow librarians to give graphic novels a shot. There was some resistance. At least one librarian told me "I will never read those (graphic novels) I don't have time." I'm still working on that one. However I was ecstatic this week when an older librarian told me she was going to try her first graphic novel: Persepolis. I had given this same book to my mom for Christmas as her first graphic novel and it was a success. So I now consider Persepolis a great gateway reccomendation.

Anyway I've assembled an "If you like..." list here for anyone's whose interested:

If you like mysteries such as those written by Sue Grafton or the "V.I. Warshawski" series try Whiteout written by Greg Rucka.

If you like apocalyptic tales like I am Legend or The Road try The Walking Dead written by Robert Kirkman.

If you are looking for books for the tween girl inside try Spiderman Loves Mary Jane written by Sean McKeever.

If you like autobiograhical romance try Blankets by Craig Thompson.

If you like true crime try From Hell by Alan Moore.

If you like adventure and classic british literature try The League of Extraordinary Gentleman written by Alan Moore.

(Okay well basically anything by Alan Moore)

If you like crazy cosmic anarchy try The Invisibles written by Grant Morrison.

If you like political thrillers try Ex Machina by Brian K. Vaughan.

If you like fables with a modern twist try Fables written by Bill Willingham.

If you like Children of Men try Y the Last Man by Brian K. Vaughan.

As you can see there really is something for everyone. It's not just super-hero stuff. Have a great weekend! Book Slave.

Book Binge-ing

Hello cyber-world,
I have been on a wonderful book binge lately. Hopefully you all will benefit from the results. It's hard to turn down the books when they are being sold at discount, y'know what I'm saying? Anyway on with the show!

Reviews
League of Extraordinary Gentlemen Vol. 1
After reading the Alan Moore interview book last week I decided to reread this great work. Moore takes characters from classic literature, puts them into a team, and throws them into an adventure in 1898. This is great adventure, sci-fi, mystery and humor. Murray and Quatermaine are the Nick and Nora of this book and I love it! I also love the hilarious opportunist jerk that is the character of the Invisible Man. I heartily reccommend this book. (BTW Avoid the film like the plague, it is horrible and not even close to the book. Don't cause yourself this pain.)

Wolverine #64
The "Get Mystique" storyline continues as we follow Wolverine and Mystique through their shared past and the present. In this installment Wolverine is conflicted when Mystique hides amongst American soldiers. Will Wolverine risk their lives to get to Mystique? This internal dillemma and the way it plays out is why Jason Aron is great. While Mystique cares about no one but herself. Wolverine has always been about the conflict between his humanity and his animal nature. I especially like his writing of the confrontation scenes between Logan and Mystique. Awesome art and splash pages from Ron Garney.

Detective Comics #843
This issue written by Paul Dini featured a team up between Batman and Zatanna to take down the Ventriloquist. Zatanna has been hired to do a magic show at the opening of a new night club. Bruce Wayne attends and is kidnapped by the Ventriloquist who is taking advantage of a gang war. While the action and villians stuff is great, I think that actually my fave scene was between Bruce Wayne and Zatanna. It touched upon their relationship, the will they or won't they that Dini introduced last year. Dini definitely writes the best Detective issues and this one was worth checking out.

What's In My Bag
Magazine
Entertainment Weekly

Comic
Secret Invasion #1

Books
Dealing With Difficult People
Brief and Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao
(crazy4novels thru down the gauntlet on getting this done, It will be done, oh yes it will be done)

Checkout Count: Crazy, but not insane.

If you are interested in more of my pithy pop culture opinions I point you to Never Enough Time. Check it out, enjoy have a good weekend, Book Slave.

Library 2.0 and the future

Hello folks,
Today I am going to discuss a general topic that libraries are taking to heart at the moment. A new idea has slipped into library philosophy called "Library 2.0." Library 2.0, as I understand it, involves the idea that technology can bring information to patrons. With information being more easily available it's questionable where libraries physically fit. It's a scary idea to those in the profession that there will be no need for librarians because patrons will look up everything on computers. Alarmists also like to scream that there will be no need for books in our future paper-less society.

I call BS on these fears, but I understand the existential angst. In terms of technology encroachment, the only options libraries have is to evolve. Let's face it, you can't push back the tide, man. Librarians need to train themselves to use these technologies to help patrons better. Technology does not equal extinction. Patrons, and human beings in general, will always want human contact. They trust human beings to answer there questions, or at least confirm what they already know, more than machines.

As a reader I believe that there will always be printed books. Haven't had the chance to use the new Amazon Kindle. However there's nothing new about digital ebooks, just visit Project Gutenberg. I think that digital representations of books lack a major psychological pull: the turning of the page. In this way the reader is physically able to move forward and feel accomplishment. It's not the same reading off a screen and clicking forward. Plus books are smaller, and don't need batteries or a power outlet.

So in the end Libraries/Librarians need to evolve and learn new technologies. It's hard to keep up, but I'm glad that I've had the chance to learn some new things. In the future I'm sure there will be a Library 3.0 where we can learn even more.

Have an awesome weekend. Book Slave.

Death and Taxes

Hello Tax Paying Citizens,
Yes it's tax day! As the Beatles said:
"If you drive a car, I'll tax the street
If you try to sit, I'll tax your seat
If you get too cold, I'll tax the heat
If you take a walk, I'll tax your feet
Taxman"
Perhaps I should get involved with capital gains. Then I'll get a tax cut. Well at least I have a rebate coming! (Even though it really borrowed from the chinese) OK I'll stop. This is not the "Complain about Taxes" blog is it? Let's lose ourselves in fantastical worlds. Are you coming?

Reviews
The Invisibles Vol. 1
I picked this up on the recommendations of a co-worker (shout-out to awesome DJ Strange) and the podcast Comic Book Queers.
The story follows an angry young punk who is thrown out on his own in London. He discovers a crazy alternative universe that exists below the surface. In this alternative universe a gang called The Invisibles battles weird/psychosexual villians. As expected Grant Morrison brings on the weird and trippy. This kind of comic is not really my bag. I found the first three issues to be drastically different than the next 4 issues in tone. The philosophical and psychosexual undertones were way over my head. Warning: This book is not for the meek. I will give the book props for it's gay subtext which is uncommon in comics. However, I think I'll be sticking to Morrison's more mainstream fare.

Tales of the Batman
This collection of Batman stories, all drawn by Tim Sale, is awesome. I found the stories incredibly entertaining. Amazingly the majority of these stories barely even include Batman as a character. These tales are more about the world that Batman inhabits. In most of the stories it is the villians that take center stage, especially one story that centers around Arkham Asylum. These are all drawn/written in a classic style but with a dark edge. I also loved the three-parter Blades, written by James Robinson. Don't miss this collection.

Alan Moore on his Work and Career
Confession time: I love Alan Moore. I worship at his feet. So I picked up this interview book and gave it a read. Moore rarely does interviews and hasn't been at a comic-con since 1986. I think that he likes to create an air of mystery/magic around his own personal image. (This also stretches to his appearance, check it out here.) Unfortunately this interview book is pretty dry. It's a straight interview which I think could've benefited from being broken up. Also some panels/pages from his works would've been great too. Interesting but again it was kinda exhausting.

What's In My Bag
Books
Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao

Graphic Novel
League of Extraordinary Gentleman Vol. 1

Magazine
Paste

Comic
Countdown to Final Crisis #5

Checkout Count: Insane!

"You say you want a revolution..." Enjoy the week! Book Slave

Wonderful World of Podcasts

Hello,
Today I'll be talking about one of my favorite new obsessions: Podcasts!

Podcasts are awesome!
Yes, hello everyone. I am a podcast addict. It's true. I started learning about podcasts in 2005 although my fanaticism did not really begin until Spring 2007.
If you aren't convinced yet, here are the awesome pros of podcasts:
*They are FREE! yes FREE folks!
*There is a podcast on every subject under the sun.
*Multi-national. Listen to viewpoints from other countries!
*Uncensored. Sometimes crazy and freewheeling.
Like the internet itself.
*Listen on your Ipod, MP3 player, or computer anywhere!

I've found that there are several different types of podcasts. Some are highly commercial and slick, others are pretty banal. As I've said in a prior post, I prefer podcasts that are a group of friends talking about a common subject. There are also some great interview shows.
A fair warning: Just like with webpages the internet is a graveyard of dead podcasts. Oftentimes without warning a podcast will just disappear. It's sad, but I just go out find some new podcasts.

Netlibrary
Enjoy audiobooks? Well now you can download them for free. Yes folks FREE! I myself am not a big audiobook person, however I know many who are. I think portability is the biggest positive here. No more changing CDs or big bulky packaging. All one needs to do is download into a device and your good to go. So now it becomes a question of content. Netlibrary needs to open itself to more than just the classics. But I guess that will come with time. Another downside is that Netlibrary does not like my Ipod. That needs to change since Ipods are the #1 mp3 player.

Libraries can take advantage of these free internet offerings. Libraries can create download stations and offer checkout playaways. This can be used to save space and allow for more collection development. With a ton of holds on one book like Harry Potter perchance, we can offer people the chance to download it online rather than waiting.

So enjoy your weekend and pay your taxes. Book Slave.

It's far too late to be posting...

Hello out there!
Having a good week? I hope so. Me? oh thanks for asking. I'm doing swell. I should be sleeping more but there's too much to read!

Reviews
Coast of Utopia Vol. 3
This is the end of Stoppard's epic trilogy about the development of philosophy in 19th century Russia. Let's just repeat it: This is not for everyone. It's dense and talky. The main characters, except for Marx and Turgenev, are little known outside of philosophy circles. It's Stoppard's ability to mix the high-brow intellectual ideas with real human ability that makes him one of the best playwrights writing today. I became wrapped up in the strange love square that became Herzen/Ogarev/Natalie/Mary. The fact that these men are so passionate and messy emotionally makes these characters incredibly human. I dream of seeing these plays performed live. (Are you listening SLAC?)

Green Lantern #29
I'm not a fan of Green Lantern. In fact I don't know anything about Hal Jordan's story. Last summer I heard a lot of praise for the Green Lantern Sinestro War comic series, so I plan on picking that up once the library gets their copy. In preparation I decided to pick up this Origin story issue and I really loved it. The writing was wonderful, as we learn about his family history. Although his story fits the classic heroes journey mold, I didn't find it predictable. I found myself emotionally caught up, especially in the birthday scene, and the conflict between Hal and his brother Jack. Also the art was amazing. The splash pages were drop dead gorgeous.

What's In My Bag
Graphic Novel
The Invisibles Vol. 1

Books
Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao

Magazine
Wizard

Comic
Countdown to Final Crisis #5

Check Out Count: Getting Better!

Have a great week! Book Slave.

Wonderful World of Online Apps

So today I'm going to write about the new wonderful world of online web applications.

Populist Technology for the Masses
In fact I am currently writing this on Google Docs. This web based word processing program functions about exactly like my Microsoft Word program. Now I could curse myself and pine for my money already lost in Bill Gates coffers. However I do believe this is the new evolution of internet technology. Google Docs, as well as technology like Open Office and Lulu.com, allow anyone anywhere to type a document or spreadsheet and save it and publish it. I applaud the populism of this new accessibility because in my opinion I think basic software should be free. Let's face it hardware is nothing without the software to support it. And don't get me started on upgrades.
However as I looked through Google, Google Labs, as well as the Web 2.0 winners, I noticed a proliferation of mainly business applications. I can see the influence of capitalism and "the man" and it worries me. I want the Internet to maintain it's freewheeling, sometimes insane, independent nature. However then again maybe what's good for the goose is good for the gander. In this circumstance Google is allowing access to anyone who can hook up to the internet which is great. I hope it stays that way.

Google Labs
So a brief word here on this. Isn't it great how transparent Google is? Putting these little experiments out there and taking the hits when they don't work. I applaud the idea. Of the group currently up I think the best of the lot is the Google Web Page Creator. I remember the painful early days when creating a simple web page could make one lose hair. HTML! Ahh! This app with it's built in WYSIWYG nature is awesome for quick easy use. As for the rest well it was cool to look at Mars and find out when/where I can get a cab. I also a move toward phone based technology which reinforces my belief that I seriously need to upgrade my phone.

Web 2.0 Awards
If you're looking for a great list of web sites here they are. Of course there's Amazon and Google up there, but it was good to see some of the new ones like Lulu.com. I also like that it was set up by categories with the top 3 choices. Worth checking out here.

Anyway I think there is a lot of library applications here. Using online apps our patrons can write their papers, type up resumes, and be able to collaborate on group projects. Again technology has converged to make our lives easier. What a great world. Book Slave.

If only I could teleport away...

Hello virtual ladies and gentlemen,
Apologies for the lateness of this post. Last night I was tired and my internet service was weak, however you do get another book review today. Perhaps that will make up for it. (Don't judge me! I'll be better, I promise!) Onward!

Reviews
Jumper
This young adult novel of an abused teen who discovers he can teleport was recently made into a film that appeared on movie screens last month. The idea intrigued me and I thought I'd give it a go. I found the book really divided itself into two parts. The first half I got really involved in as the main character David Rice tries to make it on his own after running away from his abusive dad. David goes through the typical heroes journey, discovers his powers, meets a girl, and tries to resolve his issues. Oddly I found myself rooting for David's survival, although he's quite whiny. The reader has to remind themselves that this is an underdeveloped teen who has no guidance. The second half of the book is more like a Tom Clancy novel as David decides to take on terrorists (yeah pre-9/11 too) and is being chased by the scary NSA. This half I found less interesting and more like an action movie. It is oddly prescient to our current situation. Ultimately though I did find it a satisfying read.
(BTW I've heard that the movie is terrible and not really like the book at all)

Wonder Woman #18
Gail Simone continues to spin an interesting tale. Unfortunately I was less interested in the odd courting rituals of the Amazons, then the wonderful jokes regarding celebrity. I like how Simone is using a big part of her story for societal satire. The panel with a Wonderwoman Sphinx statue was priceless. I will continue reading although I don't trust these Khund's, their intentions can't be good.


Fables #71
Awesome issue. I love the mixture of Fables and great spy-like action. Cinderella kicks ass in this issue as she continues on her secret mission. Meanwhile Prince Charming manipulates himself into becoming the head of the upcoming war against Gepetto's forces. This subplot is mainly set up for the next story arc but I really enjoyed seeing PC be a master manipulator again.


Goon #22
I enjoy Eric Powell's unique view on comics. He continues to use a balance of gross humor and violence to spin your expectations. Warning: I would not read this at night or before eating. Anyway this one has a lot of set up for a new arc but I did enjoy a look into the Goon's past.

What's In My Bag
Books
Brief and Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao

Plays
Coast of Utopia Vol. 3

Magazine
Entertainment Weekly

Comics
Dock Walloper

Check Out Count: A Little Better, But Still Insane!

Have a great week! Book Slave

Search Me

Hello,
What's with the cold and snow? I think Utah is intent on messing with your mind continuously. Anyway today we will work through search engines. Hit me baby!

Some other Online Search Engines
Do you remember the days when the internet was new? In those wacky days the search was to find the best search engine. First there was Webcrawler, Infoseek, and Lycos. Then there was Dogpile, Altavista, and Excite. Of course these all bit the dust as soon as Yahoo appeared on the scene; then of course came Google who reigns supreme.

So I was not surprised to hear that there are some other search engines out there, just waiting to be discovered. I was most impressed with Exalead, Although Clusty was a close second. These search engines are probably better then Google in the ability to get a lot of info quickly. However they lack what Google has which is simplicity. BTW in my opinion due to its funky bizarre graphic design I found Kartoo ridiculously confusing. Also if you look at their image and video tabs you are sent to Yahoo, so what's the point. Just use Yahoo.

Anyway these are key to reference work for the new age librarian. Patrons will ask you any questions under the sun, for there research projects, or just crazy obssessions about Mars. Maybe I'll give some of these a try in the future.

Housekeeping
Just like to point some stuff out.
*LibraryThing is updated to reflect all the books that I have reviewed since the beginning of this blog. My goal is to read and review 52 books this year. Right now I'm on target.
*Have been thinking of adding another blog to reflect my other passions. Any suggestions for names, please drop me a line.
*May post a special report on the World Horror Convention 2008 that I will be attending for a day here in Salt Lake.
*Please check out the other blogs listed on the Blog Roll. I think they are spiffy.

Alright I'se need to get going. Have a great day! Book Slave.

Victorian Weirdness

Hello Out There In Cyberland,
A beautiful weather week attached to an overall poor Easter weekend. Thank god for books and cyberspace! Speaking of, This week a review here for an actual fiction book. Wonder of Wonders! Great Hera's Ghost! Insert exclamatory cliche! Anyway Enjoy!

Reviews
The Somnabulist
In this supernatural mystery that takes place in the Victorian era, a magician/detective uncovers a conspiracy that may be true or a complete fantasy. The story begins to read like a Pynchon novel as strange character combines with crazy conspiracy. This reader became tired of the lack of plausible connections between characters and events. An unreliable narrator didn't add to things. While I enjoyed the Lemony Snicket snarkiness of the narrative voice I also wonder if it's a case of too many tricks, and too much cleverness. However I did enjoy characters such as Thomas Cribb and the crazy "Prefects" as they emerged near the end. I only recommend it to anyone who likes Victorian era weirdness.

Wolverine #62 and #63
These are the first two books in the Get Mystique story arc. Now I have never been a Wolverine reader, however I've heard awesome things about new writer Jason Aaron. He is best known for the independent series Scalped, which I plan to get to soon. This comic is awesome. I highly enjoy the cat and mouse play between Wolverine and Mystique as they chase/evade each other throughout the Middle East. Mystique has a lot of great tricks up her sleeve, my fave being her disguise as a nun. However many times Wolverine gets shot though he just keeps coming. In very Lost-like fashion we also get some insight into the first meeting between Mystic and Wolvy in 1921. Yes they go back that far. I highly recommend this as a jumping on point since you really don't need to know continuity to keep up.

Justice League: The New Frontier Special #1
This fun comic is a great showcase for the writing of Darwyn Cook and art of J. Bone. Written and Drawn in classic 50s style we get three stories for $4.99. I have to say I enjoyed the opening page to best. In an Introduction by Rip Hunter, Cook tells the audience (through Rip Hunter, Time Master) to just read the story and enjoy it. "Who cares What world we're on?" he says in response to Continuity hounds and I love it! I also enjoyed the Wonder Woman/Black Canary story where they try to liberate a Playboy strip club. It is self-referential and hilarious. J. Bone's art is also amazing fun.

What's In My Bag
Books
Jumper
Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao

Comics
Buffy Season 8 #12

Magazine
Entertainment Weekly

Check Out Count: Far too high!
Have a great week! I'll be at the World Horror Convention on Thursday. Maybe I'll see you there. Book Slave