I tried reviewing some books in a post last year, and it wasn't my favorite thing to do. If I started and finished a book, that means I generally enjoyed it. It's hard for me to put in to words why or what exactly I liked best. Sort of like the way I communicate about life and love-- right, honey? Clear as mud.
But I just finished a book whose main character is now in my top three of book characters. The book is A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving. I had not previously read anything by Irving, and this was a weighty piece. It takes a while to trudge through some of the early setting and discussion of the narrator's experiences with various religious denominations (episcopalian vs. congregationalist vs. catholic vs. whatever... sorry for not capitalizing), but if you make it, the story is memorable. I finished the book laying in bed the other night, and I felt like Owen Meany's life was a part of my memory, not just my memory of the book about Owen Meany. Does that make sense?
Anyway, thanks Mom for a great book! I already bought Irving's The World According To Garp, which is apparently his signature novel. I also purchased Closing Time, the sequel to Catch-22, a book I thoroughly enjoyed and a movie I recently rented. Who doesn't love Alan Arkin? He's great in everything I've seen him in! If you haven't read Catch-22, the movie won't mean as much but it's worth watching due to a formidable ensemble cast.
The world according to Garp is great. The Robin Williams vehicle thrown into the theaters was pedestrian, but the book is enjoyable. Maybe I should try reading the book you just finished. Thanks for the tip.
ReplyDelete"If I started and finished a book, that means I generally enjoyed it. It's hard for me to put in to words why or what exactly I liked best. "
ReplyDeleteSteve!! me too!!! I have quite figured out why this is. Maybe its a learning disability, ha :)