Books: What are you currently reading?

[johnny139]

Well, the people around here like to read, and we have a music thread, so... why not! What are all you people currently reading?

I just started To Kill Rasputin by Andrew Cook. It's very interesting, and gives a second look into Rasputin's final days. After that'll I'm going to give a long overdue look at American Gods.

[Temprit]

I just finished a book I started in sixth grade. Its called Dragon of the Lost sea.

[kenjib]

Iron Council by China Mieville. I usually like older books - 1930's and older - though. The book is pretty good but doesn't have as interesting a feel as Perdido Street Station did. Perdido Street Station really lost the cool at the end and turned into a run-of-the-mill action story though. Most books with a really interesting premise seem to do that (Snow Crash comes quickly to mind here). I'll see if this one does too or if the themes of industry, civilization, and freedom actually go anywhere.

[Onacara]

See Spot Run




I particualarly like the part where it goes "Run. Run. Run."

[netherspirit]

Decided to take a break from Fantasy and Sci-Fi for awhile, I'm reading the Alex Cross novels by James Patterson. I just finished Along Came a Spider and started Kiss the Girls last night.

[ej]

I'm reading 30-year-old or older copies of Asimov, Analog and other sci-fi magazines I bought at an old bookstore years ago.

[netherspirit]

I'm reading 30-year-old or older copies of Asimov, Analog and other sci-fi magazines I bought at an old bookstore years ago.

I dig Asimov, particularly the Robot stories and novels.

[Euryon]

Just finished "The Two Georges". Will read "Anansi Boys" now.

[Fallen Templar]

I just finished A Seperate Peace for school next week. I started Children of Hurin this afternoon and am about half-way through.

[Sweetcurse]

Johnny, with Ag, be prepared for a long immersing journey. I finished Feast for Crows and plan to read Outbound Flight next. I recently re-read The Nine Books of History and about half of Tristan in the non fantasy sci-fi arena. I'm also reading Meg Gardiner books.

[Scape_Scrub11]

Do comics count?

[Fallen Templar]

Do comics count? Only if it's the Halo comic

[ej]

Do comics count?

Trade Paperbacks do.

But I wouldn't try writing a book report on them.

[Jandars_Hope]

Yay! BookClub! :cheer:

I've read Neverness and only have 200 pages left of the sequel, The Broken God. The Broken God is the first in a trilogy and is written by a British Author, David Zindell, so you guys in the States probably haven't heard of him or the books. They are full of Philosophy and Science and Mathmatics, good storyline but sometimes hard to understand. I'm really enjoying it though and can't wait to read the next installment.

[Tiberius]

So I went to Borders last night and bought myself a book, Armegeddon's Children - Genesis by Terry Brooks, only to realize I had already bought it in hard back about 6 months ago and had read it (The hardback didnt have the title "Genesis" so I thought it was a different book until I started reading it and was thinking, Wow, this is really familiar. I flip back to the last chapter, wow, the exact same cliff hanger...) Man is that embarrassing.

[bluejester48]

Diablo: The Sin War book 1, Betrayal

Based on the best selling PC game by Blizzard.

[Aldin]

Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke.

An admirably readable fantasy tome about English magic circa the Napoleonic Wars. In a lot of ways the niftiest thing about it is that I have absolutely no idea where it is going - I'm just along for the ride. Recommended on a library newsletter to which I subscribe, I've been very pleased.

~Aldin, who also strongly recommends His Majesty's Dragon for Napoleonic era fantasy

[SgtDrill]

The Seige of Eternity by Frederick Pohl, The Return of Nathan Brazil by Jack Chalker, and Live from New York by Tom Shales.

I usually have 3 or 4 books going at once... whichever one happens to be closest when I'm in the mood to read, I grab it and go. :)

[Scape_Scrub11]

Do comics count?

Trade Paperbacks do.

But I wouldn't try writing a book report on them.

I don't have any of those...

[NecroBlade]

Star Wars and Philosophy: More Powerful Than You Can Possibly Imagine

[Ryougabot]

I am reading Wolves at the border - Robert N Charrette - Classic Battletech - I love that era. I guess after you grow up you never lose sight of your past. I squeeze that in around Engineering Economy - I guess that even after you graduate, you never quit schooling

[ej]

Star Wars and Philosophy: More Powerful Than You Can Possibly Imagine

:rofl:

New from "Outtaourass Press"?

[Kepler]

I am reading The History of the Ancient World

http://g-ec2.images-amazon.com/images/I/51CE7Y6YXYL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-dp-500-arrow,TopRight,45,-64_OU01_AA240_SH20_.jpg

And Dragons of the Highlord Skies
http://g-ec2.images-amazon.com/images/I/51jnT4EmvYL._AA240_.jpg

[Aldin]

I am reading Wolves at the border - Robert N Charrette - Classic Battletech - I love that era.

Excellent choice :up: I'm particularly fond of the series of books on the foundation of the Grey Death Legion.

~Aldin, who can't quite keep up with the new Dark Ages stuff

[NecroBlade]

Star Wars and Philosophy: More Powerful Than You Can Possibly Imagine

:rofl:

New from "Outtaourass Press"?It's actually a very good series that compares themes in many different movies, TV shows, etc. to philosophical ideas, including Seinfled: A Book About Everything and Nothing; The Simpsons: The D'oh! of Homer; The Matrix: Welcome to the Desert of the Real; Buffy: Fear and Trembling in Sunnydale; Lord of the Rings: One Book to Rule Them All; Baseball: Thinking Outside the Batter's Box; The Sopranos: I Kill Therefore I Am; Woody Allen: You Mean My Whole Fallacy Is Wrong?; Harry Potter: If Aristotle Ran Hogwarts; Mel Gibson's Passion: The Cross, the Questions, the Controversy; More Matrix: Revolutions and Reloaded Decoded; and the one I'm currently reading.

More volumes in the works include Superheroes, The Atkins Diet, The Chronicles of Narnia, and Hip-Hop. No, I did not make any of the above up.

[Ryougabot]

Before I read Wolves, I actually read every Gray Death book. The origins are great, the further adventures are OK, but the final book was just to depressing for words. It seemed more like a sad attempt to end the CBT era. I found many instances of that toward the end.

I am reading Wolves at the border - Robert N Charrette - Classic Battletech - I love that era.

Excellent choice :up: I'm particularly fond of the series of books on the foundation of the Grey Death Legion.

~Aldin, who can't quite keep up with the new Dark Ages stuff

[ej]

Star Wars and Philosophy: More Powerful Than You Can Possibly Imagine

:rofl:

New from "Outtaourass Press"?It's actually a very good series that compares themes in many different movies, TV shows, etc. to philosophical ideas, including Seinfled: A Book About Everything and Nothing; The Simpsons: The D'oh! of Homer; The Matrix: Welcome to the Desert of the Real; Buffy: Fear and Trembling in Sunnydale; Lord of the Rings: One Book to Rule Them All; Baseball: Thinking Outside the Batter's Box; The Sopranos: I Kill Therefore I Am; Woody Allen: You Mean My Whole Fallacy Is Wrong?; Harry Potter: If Aristotle Ran Hogwarts; Mel Gibson's Passion: The Cross, the Questions, the Controversy; More Matrix: Revolutions and Reloaded Decoded; and the one I'm currently reading.

More volumes in the works include Superheroes, The Atkins Diet, The Chronicles of Narnia, and Hip-Hop. No, I did not make any of the above up.

Man... Outtaourass Press has quite the collection going.

:D

[Mindfreak]

Star Wars and Philosophy: More Powerful Than You Can Possibly Imagine

:rofl:

New from "Outtaourass Press"?It's actually a very good series that compares themes in many different movies, TV shows, etc. to philosophical ideas, including Seinfled: A Book About Everything and Nothing; The Simpsons: The D'oh! of Homer; The Matrix: Welcome to the Desert of the Real; Buffy: Fear and Trembling in Sunnydale; Lord of the Rings: One Book to Rule Them All; Baseball: Thinking Outside the Batter's Box; The Sopranos: I Kill Therefore I Am; Woody Allen: You Mean My Whole Fallacy Is Wrong?; Harry Potter: If Aristotle Ran Hogwarts; Mel Gibson's Passion: The Cross, the Questions, the Controversy; More Matrix: Revolutions and Reloaded Decoded; and the one I'm currently reading.

More volumes in the works include Superheroes, The Atkins Diet, The Chronicles of Narnia, and Hip-Hop. No, I did not make any of the above up.
Where did you get those? What seection are they in?
I'm Reading Harry Potter and Deathly Hallows.

[Maska]

Emerald Eyes
The Long Run
Last Dancer


all by Daniel Keys Moran .... and for literally like the 30th time.

[royaldoy]

2nd book in the Shadowmarch series by Tad Williams. Slow going but enjoyable none-the-less.

[Aldin]

Before I read Wolves, I actually read every Gray Death book. The origins are great, the further adventures are OK, but the final book was just to depressing for words. It seemed more like a sad attempt to end the CBT era. I found many instances of that toward the end.

Bah! I just wrote and then deleted a massively fanboy post. Suffice to say I basically agree with you, though I rather enjoyed the clan story arc and the tale of Victor Ian Steiner-Davion.

~Aldin, who usually designs mechs for firepower rather than agility

[Jandars_Hope]

The Seige of Eternity by Frederick Pohl, The Return of Nathan Brazil by Jack Chalker, and Live from New York by Tom Shales.

I usually have 3 or 4 books going at once... whichever one happens to be closest when I'm in the mood to read, I grab it and go. :)
You must be talented - i don't think i'd be able to manage more than one at a time - I would just get so muddled up with storylines etc.

[Doc_Savage]

I just finished "Learning the World" by Ken MacLeod, currently my favorite SF writer. This was another great read.

[NecroBlade]

Where did you get those?I got it as a gift, so I don't know what to tell you. Amazon might have them, or there's more info on their site, opencourbooks.com (not outtaourasspress.com).

[oni]

I'm in the middle of reading 3 books, Daywatch by Sergei Lukyanenko, Corum: The Coming of Chaos by Michael Moorcock, and Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman by Haruki Murakami.

[Grishnakh]

I just finished reading "The Killer Angels" by Michael Shaara. It's a novel about the events of the battle of Gettysburg and it won a Pulitzer Prize. I highly recommend it. The Ted Turner movie "Gettysburg" was based on this book. (Just be warned that while it gets 90% of the actual battle right it is not completely historically correct. That doesn't make it a bad book, just don't walk away from it thinking you've read a historical account of the battle.) Even General Norman Schwarzkopf says that this is "the best and most realistic historical novel about war I have ever read." And who's to doubt "Stormin Normin"?

(And yes, believe it or not, Grishnakh can read.)

[Jandars_Hope]

I'm in the middle of reading 3 books, Daywatch by Sergei Lukyanenko, Corum: The Coming of Chaos by Michael Moorcock, and Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman by Haruki Murakami.
Is the Daywatch book based on/adapted to the film of the same name?

[oni]

Yes, Daywatch was the basis of the movie. But the first book, Nightwatch contains the seeds for both movies. The Daywatch book has very little to do with the movie. I'm looking forward to both the third movie and book, Twillightwatch.

[Fallen Templar]

Finished Children of Hurin. Starting a Clockwork Orange

[dragonfire]

Well, I am at this moment reading this website, does that count?

[Fallen Templar]

Well, I am at this moment reading this website, does that count?As much as reading a comic book

[Jandars_Hope]

Finished Children of Hurin. Starting a Clockwork Orange
I got Children of hurin back in May for my birthday. I had only just finished reading The Silmarillion so i ended up not wanting to delve back into middle earth history so soon.

Yes, Daywatch was the basis of the movie. But the first book, Nightwatch contains the seeds for both movies. The Daywatch book has very little to do with the movie. I'm looking forward to both the third movie and book, Twillightwatch.

I've seen the first film (and it was on again the other night), Daywatch has yet to be released on dvd over here yet so i haven't seen it.

[Chimpy]

Here are a couple of books I recently picked up at the library:

Star Spengled Men: America's Ten Worst Presidents by Nathan Miller (http://www.amazon.com/Star-Spangled-Men-Americas-Worst-Presidents/dp/0684852063/ref=sr_1_1/102-4049994-4893706?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1188513846&sr=1-1)

The Soul of Battle by Victor Davis Hanson (http://www.amazon.com/Soul-Battle-Ancient-Liberators-Vanquished/dp/0385720599/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/102-4049994-4893706?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1188513812&sr=1-1)

And

The Lions of July by William Jannen Jr. (http://www.amazon.com/Lions-July-Prelude-War-1914/dp/0891416374/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/102-4049994-4893706?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1188513765&sr=8-1)

[Argent]

I recently picked up Philip Pullman's Dark Materials. I've finished The Golden Compass and The Subtle Knife and have just started The Amber Spyglass. Pretty good read.

My eye has caught some books by an Author named Jennifer Roberson (I think thats right) Has anyone read anything by her? And was it worth the read?

Oh and 100th post!!! Yipee Skipee!!

[braveheart101]

I really like Stephen Lawhead's Song of Albion trilogy! Its full action, intense battle, heartbreaking moments and moments where one feels joyfull.

~bravey~

[LilMoochie]

I am reading The History of the Ancient World

http://g-ec2.images-amazon.com/images/I/51CE7Y6YXYL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-dp-500-arrow,TopRight,45,-64_OU01_AA240_SH20_.jpg



How do you like it? Dr. Bauer was a professor of mine in college. She's fantastically bright and very down to Earth.

[ron3090]

Right now, I'm reading Xenocide by Orson Scott Card. I've read all of the Ender's Shadow series except Shadow of the Giant, and now I'm working on Ender's Game.

[netherspirit]

Just finished Kiss the Girls by James Patterson. Holy carp can that man write a fast paced thriller. 2.5 half page chapters, insane plot twists and tons of suspense! I was about half way through and couldn't stop reading, I was up until 3 am finishing it. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. It was intense! Can't wait to read what happens to Alex Cross next, going to pick up the next one tomorrow.

[ron3090]

Has anyone read Elantris? I thought it was great, and I was wondering if Mistborn was a sequel.

[LilMoochie]

Right now, I'm reading Xenocide by Orson Scott Card. I've read all of the Ender's Shadow series except Shadow of the Giant, and now I'm working on Ender's Game.

Why would you read Ender's Shadow and Xenocide before Ender's Game? All three in the Ender's Game Trilogy are excellent, but are very different from one another. I think I liked Xenocide least, but that's just my opinion.

[ron3090]

Right now, I'm reading Xenocide by Orson Scott Card. I've read all of the Ender's Shadow series except Shadow of the Giant, and now I'm working on Ender's Game.

Why would you read Ender's Shadow and Xenocide before Ender's Game? All three in the Ender's Game Trilogy are excellent, but are very different from one another. I think I liked Xenocide least, but that's just my opinion.
No, I mean I have read the rest of the Ender's Shadow SERIES, in order, and now I'm working on the Ender's Game SERIES, in order. So far, Xenocide isn't very good.

[Jandars_Hope]

Just finished reading 'The Broken God' and now onto the second book in the Trilogy: 'The Wild'. Apparently the Author, David Zindell, lives in California (i think).

[Drumline3469]

Just finished A Clockwork Orange and I thought it was a very deep riveting novel. One of my favorites by far. I just started The Road by Cormack McArthy. It is amazing!

[LilMoochie]

No, I mean I have read the rest of the Ender's Shadow SERIES, in order, and now I'm working on the Ender's Game SERIES, in order. So far, Xenocide isn't very good.


Oooooooooh. right. My mistake. :oops: Xenocide kinda picks up a bit in the middle, but it gets "fuzzy" and weird at the end.

I just finished Guns Germs and Steel by Jared Diamond. It's a fascinating read as to why the world developed like it did.

[Joah]

World War Z.

[Drumline3469]

World War Z.
I heard they are making a movie out of this with a killer budget. It's supposed to be the most extensive zombie movie ever made.

[Jormi_Boced]

Dean Koontz - Shadow Fires

[Ted]

I am reading the Legend of the Five Rings series: the four winds. It follows the clan war series which was very good. This is while I am waiting for the next Drizzt book to come out and of course while I am waiting for the next Dresden book to come out. Keep the pages turning, at least while you're not playing Heroscape.

[moorific]

I'm reading Of Mice and Men for school, and gotta have it finished by Tuesday for a test, still haven't opened it yet. Anyone have any feedback about it?

[conall]

The Judas Strain by James Patterson.

[Joah]

World War Z.
I heard they are making a movie out of this with a killer budget. It's supposed to be the most extensive zombie movie ever made.
Cool. I can't wait.

[kenjib]

World War Z.
I heard they are making a movie out of this with a killer budget. It's supposed to be the most extensive zombie movie ever made.

Will it beat the current zombie movie production cost record of, like, $2 million? :lol:

[RichardD]

I'm reading Of Mice and Men for school, and gotta have it finished by Tuesday for a test, still haven't opened it yet. Anyone have any feedback about it?

I seem to recall something about a bespectacled lawyer shooting a rabid dog. Although that could have been To Kill A Mockingbird.

[Drumline3469]

World War Z.
I heard they are making a movie out of this with a killer budget. It's supposed to be the most extensive zombie movie ever made.

Will it beat the current zombie movie production cost record of, like, $2 million? :lol:

I think it may even be pushing the most expensive ever. I think I heard 400,000 but I have no facts to back that up.

[MI_Tiger]

I'm currently reading 2 books:

1) The Face by Dean Koontz (actually listening to this on audiobook on the way to and from work). I'm about 1/3 of the way through it and it seem like a typical Koontz novel if there is such a thing. It is half detective story and half supernatural thriller about an anarchist stalking the most famous movie star in the world. The hero is the star's security chief, with possibly (not clear yet) some help from a recently deceased friend.

2) The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin. This is written for teens, but I'm enjoying it too (almost half through). It is about an incredibly wealthy man who's will brings together a disparate group of potential heirs. His will claims that one of the heirs murdered him and gives out clues to each heir which will identify the murderer and determine who inherits the bulk of his fortune. At least that is what it seems will happen - the will implies a lot but has few firm details. So far it is a fairly interesting mystery.

A series that I just finished this summer is Odd Thomas / Forever Odd / Brother Odd by Dean Koontz. I loved these books (presumably the first three in a continuing series). The main character, named Odd Thomas, is a cross between Forrest Gump and the 6th sense kid all grown up. He is a pure innocent who has the ability to see and the duty to help the lingering dead. This ability gets him mixed up in fairly involved storylines, but the novels are really character-driven rather than plot-driven. I don't want to take anything away from the plots (except maybe Forever Odd which is a step below the other two), but what makes the books so good is that the character of Odd Thomas is so appealing. I listened to these on audiobook and the reader captured Odd's personality perfectly, so I recommend listening to these if you get the chance.

[moorific]

I'm reading Of Mice and Men for school, and gotta have it finished by Tuesday for a test, still haven't opened it yet. Anyone have any feedback about it?

I seem to recall something about a bespectacled lawyer shooting a rabid dog. Although that could have been To Kill A Mockingbird.

Yeah that was definatley To Kill A Mockingbird.

[johnny139]

I'm reading Of Mice and Men for school, and gotta have it finished by Tuesday for a test, still haven't opened it yet. Anyone have any feedback about it?

I seem to recall something about a bespectacled lawyer shooting a rabid dog. Although that could have been To Kill A Mockingbird.

No, I don't remember any rabid dogs in To Kill a Mockingbird. Though I could be mistaken, I'm kinda tired.

[Drumline3469]

I'm reading Of Mice and Men for school, and gotta have it finished by Tuesday for a test, still haven't opened it yet. Anyone have any feedback about it?

I seem to recall something about a bespectacled lawyer shooting a rabid dog. Although that could have been To Kill A Mockingbird.

No, I don't remember any rabid dogs in To Kill a Mockingbird. Though I could be mistaken, I'm kinda tired.

It's both. In Of Mice and Men they shoot a REALLY old dog to put it out of his misery, but To Kill A Mockingbird had a bespectacled lawyer.

[RichardD]

They shot a bespectacled lawyer? What a tragedy!

[johnny139]

Finished To Kill Rasputin a while ago (they put they mystery to rest... sadly...), and I started American Gods a short while ago. I'm currently about a third of the way through; fantastic book. I heard Neil Gaiman was good, and man were they right!

[netherspirit]

I'm totally hooked on this Alex Cross series by James Patterson, I'm about to finish the 4th one (Cat and Mouse) and will go pick up the 5th tonight as soon as I'm done. I really hope the BN has it! I have a feeling its going to end with a huge cliffhanger like the last one.

[AgentX-127]

A series that I just finished this summer is Odd Thomas / Forever Odd / Brother Odd by Dean Koontz. My wife loves Dean Koontz but I didn't until I read Odd Thomas, which I loved.
I went on to read Forever Odd, and I have Brother Odd in the queue.

But as for what I'm reading right now, I'm trying to finish Caribbean by James Michener.

I am also on book 9 of Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events. (Which is my excuse for why I haven't finished Caribbean yet.)
Yeah, they're kids books, my daughter's actually, but I think they are great.

[LilNewbie]

I've been enjoying the Horus Heresy series from the Black Library (GW's Press).

It's the background story on the whole premise of Games Workshop's game Warhammer 40K. It's not the best literary work but great fight scenes and it's interesting to read about the characters that have been a big part of the W40K mythos for many years.

Newb.

[Jandars_Hope]

I began reading a book and managed the first 2 chapters and am still into it but have taken a break - I just read 2 books so a break was needed -and probably due to having less time to read. I will start reading it soon.

[Jormi_Boced]

I am reading Ken Follett's, Pillars of the Earth. I am not real far into it yet, but it has been pretty good thus far. I figured I should pick it up after playing the board game.

[that guy]

I'm currently re-reading The Sword of Truth series (it's about 7 or 8 books) and my enitre (over 50) Dragonlance collection.

[Dictatorbilbo]

Just finished the Master of Go, by Kawabata. For those who haven't read it, I highly encourage you to; It reads kinda like Hemingway, and feels like a Haiku. :)

On a side note, has anyone here read Robin Jarvis' Wyrd Museum trilogy?

[johnny139]

Finished American Gods - FANTASTIC book. It went by fast, though. Such a long book, but it only took me a week! Oh well, still good. I'm gonna look into more of Gaiman's stuff.

[Ravven Demonwing]

I really do enjoy the Sherlock Holmes series of books by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Always a good read, but I might just be saying this because I don't particularly enjoy the "forensic science solving mysteries" books of today, because the character's don't make me like them too much.

[RichardD]

Before They Are Hanged, by Joe Abercrombie - the sequel to The Blade Itself. Fantasy novel, lots of death and torture, no elves or dragons. Fans of A Song Of Ice And Fire might like it, but it's not as good. Don't get me wrong - it's a fine read - just not as good as Martin's series.

I'm waiting for the second Locke Lamora book to arrive in paperback; similar atmosphere, fewer gratuitous deaths, more cunning plots, better, but not by much.

[Jonathan]

Reading "Octagon" by Fred Saberhagen. It's pretty interesting, as it's a robot murder mystery set around the world of mail-in nerd gaming a la 1985. I'll have to finish it before I can determine if it's any good or not.

[AmishBurrito]

I am reading: Folk of the Fringe by Orson Scott Card.

I have to admit that I am obsessed with his books. I can't seem to finish any other books, and I can't put his down.

[LilNewbie]

Reading "Octagon" by Fred Saberhagen. It's pretty interesting, as it's a robot murder mystery set around the world of mail-in nerd gaming a la 1985. I'll have to finish it before I can determine if it's any good or not.

I enjoyed Saberhagen's Sword books (The Trilogy and the Books of Lost Swords series).

Newb.

[Chuckrock]

The Dresden Files by Jim Butcher and Blood Price and Blood Trail by Tanya Huff.

Both present day detective novels with a touch of magic or supernatural. Both good easy detective like reads.

[Syvarris the Ruler]

I am currently rereading the Age of Fire Series by E. E. Knight.Only 2 books in the series so far but the next one is coming out Dec. 4!! :D

[monkeyfish]

I've just been reading manga lately.

[Was Abi]

I've been reading the Ranger's Apprentice series. Book four comes out March 9. Unless You live in Australia... Then you are waiting for Book Eight!!! :ninja:

[Jormi_Boced]

A Tolkien biography.

[markwars]

A Bernard Sumner biography.

[InThisMoment]

The Catcher in the Rye - Not child friendly at all. Very powerful and very deep, but, i'd recommend it more for adults. I consider this novel one of the books that has left the most lasting impression, so much so that i'm re-reading it.

[NecroBlade]

There are a lot of things I'd like to read right now, but instead I get to read all of these for school! @_@

The Strange Career of Jim Crow
Promised Land, Crusader State
Don't Make Me Think
Making a Nation
Ethics & Technology
Understanding Your Users

[Hex_Enduction_Hour]

Almost halfway through Stephen King's It.
I was going along real good until some family stuff came up and I didn't get the opportunities to read a lot.

Trying to pick the momentum back up. Never read a 1K+ paged book before!

[oni]

I'm in the middle of reading 3 books, Daywatch by Sergei Lukyanenko, Corum: The Coming of Chaos by Michael Moorcock, and Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman by Haruki Murakami.

I'm still reading Corum (about a page a year) and moved Blind Willow to my full time read pile now that I have a paperback copy. I don't read hard covers as fast, I don't like carrying them on the bus and worry about messing them up.

In the mean time I've read most of David Gemmell's Drenai series (at the recommendation of someone on this board), finished three Christopher Moore novels, and finished Day Watch and Twilight Watch.

[hextr1p]

I've been on a David Wellington kick, as of late.

Started with Monster Island. Followed by 13 Bullets. Almost through Monster Nation. And then I have Monster Planet waiting on my bedside table.

After Monster Planet, I'll change gears to something a bit less... gory. :D

But I really want to read 99 Coffins, and I really hope his publisher picks up his werewolf serial, Frostbite. And Plague Zone looks interesting, too.

:D

Yes, I highly recommend David Wellington.

[nyys]

Time of the Twins (DragonLance).

[Wiet]

"Wintersmith" by Terry Pratchett - highly, highly, HIGHLY recommended writer (just about every 'Discworld'-novel is worth the read).

[Grishnakh]

All of Robert E. Howard's Kull stories. ("Kull, Exile of Atlantis", Del Rey Edition)

[yagyuninja]

Time of the Twins (DragonLance).

YES! Raist and Caramon awesomeness.

I'm currently starting The Waste Lands (3rd in Stephen King's Dark Tower series). I *just* finished book two. Roland is so cool.

[Oyhedwig]

Yes! Roland of Gilead is very cool! I loved those Dark Tower books. I'll give you a warning though. Many, many people were disappointed by the final three novels. I was a little, but it is a terrific story. The characters make it great where the story might lack toward the end.

Also, the last book I read was Time of the Twins. I agree. Raistlin and Caramon are pure awesome.

I read a few references to Neil Gaiman. Terrific author. I recommend a novel called Neverwhere. I'm told that it's a BBC movie, too, but the movie stinks. It might have been a screenplay first, I'm not sure. Neverwhere is all about a secret world of sorts below London, England. Check it out.

[Roland]

Roland is so cool.

Thanks!
I just finished the Demonwars Saga by RA Salvatore, and am starting His Dark Materials Trilogy by Pullman

[Oyhedwig]

Roland, is your avatar from the Gunslinger Born comics? I only have one issue, and figured I'd wait for the trade paperback to get the whole series.

[Hex_Enduction_Hour]

I've been on a David Wellington kick, as of late.

Started with Monster Island. Followed by 13 Bullets. Almost through Monster Nation. And then I have Monster Planet waiting on my bedside table.

After Monster Planet, I'll change gears to something a bit less... gory. :D

But I really want to read 99 Coffins, and I really hope his publisher picks up his werewolf serial, Frostbite. And Plague Zone looks interesting, too.

:D

Yes, I highly recommend David Wellington.

H3x, Guerillinator is currently reading Wellington's Monster series.
His thoughts here if you're interested:
http://www.heroscapers.com/community/showthread.php?t=6749&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=60

[hextr1p]

H3x, Guerillinator is currently reading Wellington's Monster series.
His thoughts here if you're interested:
http://www.heroscapers.com/community/showthread.php?t=6749&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=60
Awesome. Thanks, HeH! :D

[Hahma]

Currently reading the latest in the Dresden Files by Jim Butcher called White Night.

When I'm done with that, I'm contemplating re-reading a series by W.E.B. Griffin called The Corps.

[nyys]

Time of the Twins (DragonLance).

YES! Raist and Caramon awesomeness.

I'm currently starting The Waste Lands (3rd in Stephen King's Dark Tower series). I *just* finished book two. Roland is so cool.

Yeah, and I'm equally excited that this is only the 4th DL novel I've read, many many more to go.

I haven't finished the DT series yet. I read the 1st four years ago, then read Wolves of the Calla about 2 years ago and I haven't been motivated to go out and get the last 2.

[Menchy]

Just Finished: A Bowl of Fruit, A Whale in the Woods by Russel Like
I must say that it is one of the best books I have ever read. Hilarious, action filled, and just plain fun. I would highly reccomend it to anyone.

[ej]

The Reaper Man (my first foray in Terry Pratchett's novels), Amorality Tale (Third Doctor novel), and Saturn by Ben Bova. One's in the car, one's in the downstairs bathroom and the other one is in the upstairs bathroom.

[zanter]

A rumor of dragons, from dragonlance.

[Roland]

Roland, is your avatar from the Gunslinger Born comics? I only have one issue, and figured I'd wait for the trade paperback to get the whole series.

Ya it is, I got 4 issues before I stopped, and they released it as a very well done hardcover edition that I just recently picked up.

[weatherr]

Currently I am re-reading the hobbit, getting ready for lord of the rings. I just finished one of the classics most SF gaming is at least partly based upon. Space Viking by H. Beam Piper. He writes about cyclical history, which permits him to write about historical events, like the Vikings, and the Nazi take over of Germany in WWII in a futuristic context. All his books are reccommended, though they may be hard to find as he died in 1964. Even the Fuzzy novels, although cute, are filled with interesting details that are very applicable in any SF RPG campaign.

His "fantasy" Lord Kalvin & Paratime could be used as a basis for HS.

One of Jerry Pournelle's former assistants is writing books in the paratime universe now (Carr I think).

[Oyhedwig]

Cool, Roland. I'm going to have to check Books a Million or something for that one.

I just finished The Hobbit with my eighth grade class. I love teaching with that book, because for some reason I never get tired of it.

[Roland]

Yup, Its a nice recap of the past seen in Book 4. I have only read through book 5, have book 6, and still need to pick up 7, but right now Im taking a break from the Tower and reading some other decent series before returning for my full reading [1-7]

[NecroBlade]

For one of my classes, we're reading a book by Steve Krug and he just made a reference to All Things Considered.

http://www.impawards.com/tv/posters/twilight_zone.jpg

:shock:

[Jandars_Hope]

I recently read The Hobbit, and just finished The Wild by David Zindell. I've just started War in Heaven which is the last in the trilogy of 'A Requiem of Homo Sapiens' by D. Zindell, in which the Wild was the second book. Once i'm done with that i'll be starting on the 'A song of Fire and Ice' series.

[Sci-fi Messiah]

I'm currently reading Of Mice and Men for school. But I've really gotten into it and I'm a chapter ahead of my class.

[Nooblar]

I'm in the middle of the Chanur series by C. J. Cherryh.

[Onion Knight]

An Instance of the Fingerpost by Iaan Pears. So far, fantastic.

[Hatchetbill]

I've just finished David Wellington's Monster Island: A Zombie Novel and I'm presently re-reading the first 11 books of Jordans Wheel of Time series in anticipation of the completion of book 12 (I'm on book 8 ). Both of Max Brooks Zombie books are waiting on the shelve as well. I may get to start one tonight.

[Jonathan]

Borrowed Brooks' "World War Z" from Sweetcurse - fantastic work!

[netherspirit]

The Disappeared by Kristine Kathryn Rusch.

[Gulp]

The Dragons of Eden by Carl Sagan. It's his Pulitzer Prize winner about the evolution of human intelligence. Very awesome, just like all things Sagan.

Bring back Carl!

[keglo]

I finally picked up George R.R. Martin's A Feast for Crows. I couldn't stand waiting anymore.

[Gulp]

I finally picked up George R.R. Martin's A Feast for Crows. I couldn't stand waiting anymore.


Fantasy fans who haven't read GRRM's A Song of Ice and Fire series will kick themselves for waiting when they finally read it. Most fantasy stuff like Robert Jordan is for young adults. GRRM's stuff is definitely for mature readers.

A Feast for Crows only has a couple of my favorite characters which made it a little slower in the reading, but that just means that his next book is going to be all the awesome characters and storylines (doing my best to remain optimistic).

GRRM .... :drool:

[keglo]

Fantasy fans who haven't read GRRM's A Song of Ice and Fire series will kick themselves for waiting when they finally read it. Most fantasy stuff like Robert Jordan is for young adults. GRRM's stuff is definitely for mature readers.

A Feast for Crows only has a couple of my favorite characters which made it a little slower in the reading, but that just means that his next book is going to be all the awesome characters and storylines (doing my best to remain optimistic).

GRRM .... :drool:

I agree. At this point Martin is definitely my favorite author. And no, it is not for kids. I actually read the first three books a long time ago. I had read how many characters where missing from A Feast for Crows so I was waiting to read it until it A Dance With Dragons was closer to release. But, I finally couldn't take it anymore and had to read it.

Fantasy fans who haven't read GRRM's A Song of Ice and Fire series will kick themselves for waiting when they finally read it.

You are probably right, but in some ways the opposite is true. After reading Martin, other novels will less enjoyable. Now that I have read Martin I find myself measuring everything against it. And to me, nothing else compares. So if it weren't for Martins books I probably wouldn't be so disappointed in some other fantasy books. Maybe people shouldn't start with the best after all. :D

[Gulp]

You are probably right, but in some ways the opposite is true. After reading Martin, other novels will less enjoyable. Now that I have read Martin I find myself measuring everything against it. And to me, nothing else compares. So if it weren't for Martins books I probably wouldn't be so disappointed in some other fantasy books. Maybe people shouldn't start with the best after all. :D

Very true. Sometimes when people recommend a fantasy novel I ask if they've read Martin's books. If they say no, then I have a hard time getting motivated to take their suggestion. I'm so tired of reading about the small town farm boy who suddenly gets swept away to eventually save the world with his newfound magic powers. Blood and bloody ashes!

[keglo]

[quote=keglo]Blood and bloody ashes!

Laughing out loud. I see that you are one of the less than satisfied WoT readers. I can say that I too am a bit disappointed in some of the books in Jorden's series, and that he milked it for all he could get out of it. But I have to admit that I still love the story and characters and I want to know what happens. Though I am very leery of the last book now that it is being written by a different author. Again, though Jordan is no Martin, I still thoroughly enjoy Rand Land. It might have something to do wit Wheel of Time being the first epic fantasy series that I ever read. It is the series that got me into it.

[Gulp]

Though I am very leery of the last book now that it is being written by a different author.

Ahh, that's where we differ. I hated to hear that RJ died before completing his life's work, but to be perfectly honest at this point I'd rather have a different author finish his series. It's like the new Star Wars films. If George Lucas had just let someone else direct them, then they could have been fantastic. He was just too close to the films to be able to see how bad he was screwing up his legacy. Now we have the "real" Star Wars, and then we have the "new" Star Wars. Or he was just making a film that he knew would make lots of money by appealing to kids, which may explain him but not excuse him from disappointing people.

::Steps down from soapbox::

To clarify, my more important point is NOT about Star Wars but about brilliant artists screwing up their own creations, a point which I'm sure has been beaten to death in some other thread and all over the web.

Hope I don't cause this to get hijacked.

[keglo]

Ahh, that's where we differ. I hated to hear that RJ died before completing his life's work, but to be perfectly honest at this point I'd rather have a different author finish his series. It's like the new Star Wars films. If George Lucas had just let someone else direct them, then they could have been fantastic. He was just too close to the films to be able to see how bad he was screwing up his legacy. Now we have the "real" Star Wars, and then we have the "new" Star Wars. Or he was just making a film that he knew would make lots of money by appealing to kids, which may explain him but not excuse him from disappointing people.

Some good points. I will try and be optimistic (not my strong suite) about Donaldson finishing the book. Unfortunately I am not familiar with any of his work. As for Star Wars, I am in total agreement with you.

I am sorry too if I hijacked the thread.

[DarkBladeCB]

I just finished the Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test and am reading Pride of Baghdad real quick before jumping into The Darkness That Comes Before.

[oni]

You Suck: A Love Story by Christopher Moore.

[Bengi]

Martin in next on my list to read, and from everything I've heard I expect good things.

I recently finished all of the Robert Jordan books and was greatly dissapointed. The only reason I finished them at all is because I was listening to them on audiobook during my commute.

My favorite fantasy author has always been Terry Brooks though. I have loved every one of his books, and I have read them all.

For non-fantasy, I highly recommend Bill Bryson's "A Short History of Nearly Everything".

[keglo]

For non-fantasy, I highly recommend Bill Bryson's "A Short History of Nearly Everything".

Someone writes non-fantasy?!? But why? :wink:

[Roland]

Finished Stone of Tears last night, moving on to Blood of the Fold on my lunch break.

[keglo]

Finished Stone of Tears last night, moving on to Blood of the Fold on my lunch break.

A good series. I still haven't finished it though. But then again, Wizard and Glass is the last "Dark Tower" book that I read. I heard that it ended stupidly so I have not brought myself to picking it back up.

[Roland]

Finished Stone of Tears last night, moving on to Blood of the Fold on my lunch break.

A good series. I still haven't finished it though. But then again, Wizard and Glass is the last "Dark Tower" book that I read. I heard that it ended stupidly so I have not brought myself to picking it back up.

I go through the fifth dark tower and that was it. I am happier it not ending. As for the Sword of Truth, I read the first 2 books in 7th grade , and lost a lot of what was so cool about it then.

[MattMan5]

I'm Reading Cue For Treason by Geoffry Trease

[HyperLight]

I just finished reading "The Legend of Drizzit" by R.A Salvatore... Have to admit that the author has me enthralled by this character and I'm definately going to get the next book in the series.

Hyper~

[HyperLight]

Finished Stone of Tears last night, moving on to Blood of the Fold on my lunch break.

A good series. I still haven't finished it though. But then again, Wizard and Glass is the last "Dark Tower" book that I read. I heard that it ended stupidly so I have not brought myself to picking it back up.

I go through the fifth dark tower and that was it. I am happier it not ending. As for the Sword of Truth, I read the first 2 books in 7th grade , and lost a lot of what was so cool about it then.

You have to FINISH reading the Dark Tower series....I couldn't wait to finish. How can you not be curious about what happens to old Roland,Jake,Eddie,Susan or Oy for that matter?? :lol:

The ending was actually quite fitting I thought.

Hyper~

[keglo]

I just finished reading "The Legend of Drizzit" by R.A Salvatore... Have to admit that the author has me enthralled by this character and I'm definately going to get the next book in the series.

Hyper~

I agree that the Drizzit book are very interesting and well written. I only read the first three books, "The Icewind Dale Trilogy". Although I truly loved it, I found out that there where so many more books that I just didn't want to go on and have to read that many. My kid loves them and has read them all I think.

[soberman]

Fiction: The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami. Great surrealist writer with an ear for slightly off-kilter dialogue and a good sense of underlying theme derived from seemingly random occurances.

Non-fiction: A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle. Oprah told me to read it, and I finally listened to her. Basically, it is about spiritual evolution. (But not to the point of attaining Godhood, thankfully.) I think it was the zeal with which Ms. Winfrey urged me to read the book, coupled with my own spiritual malaise, that galvanized me into buying the book. It is interesting enough, if in an "yes, of course" sort of way, to give the reader cause to take an introspective inventory. Also, I am all for any guru who doesn't insist that he, or anyone for that matter, has a monoply on Truth.
_______________________________
now playing: Lee Hazelwood Strung Out On Something New: The Reprise Recordings disc 2

[zanter]

Dragons of autumn twilight and the warcraft archive.

[Fallen Templar]

The Prince-Niccollo Machieavelli

Let the Galaxy Burn by Gav Thorpe

[rdhight]

The Anubis Gates by Tim Powers. I can't find any holes in the time travel plot; the magic is understandable but very non-RPG-style; and the man's writing skills just flat-out rock. Also has Egyptian elements and incorporates real events into a secret history. I strongly, strongly recommend it. Also, Declare by the same author is equally good, although longer and more challenging.

[yagyuninja]

The Anubis Gates by Tim Powers. I can't find any holes in the time travel plot; the magic is understandable but very non-RPG-style; and the man's writing skills just flat-out rock. Also has Egyptian elements and incorporates real events into a secret history. I strongly, strongly recommend it. Also, Declare by the same author is equally good, although longer and more challenging.

That sounds cool.

I'm reading through Frank Miller's run on Daredevil right now. I never cared for the character, but Frank has drawn me in. I think I'm even going to watch that stupid movie again.

[Gulp]

Fiction: The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami. Great surrealist writer with an ear for slightly off-kilter dialogue and a good sense of underlying theme derived from seemingly random occurances.

I've heard from quite a few people that The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle is great. It's on my list. I've read other Murakami (something about an elephant), and I wasn't able to get into it, but I will still check out the book you're reading.

I told my g-ma I was looking for the Truth and she said, "Fool, where did you leave it?"

[Roland]

Finished Stone of Tears last night, moving on to Blood of the Fold on my lunch break.

A good series. I still haven't finished it though. But then again, Wizard and Glass is the last "Dark Tower" book that I read. I heard that it ended stupidly so I have not brought myself to picking it back up.

I go through the fifth dark tower and that was it. I am happier it not ending. As for the Sword of Truth, I read the first 2 books in 7th grade , and lost a lot of what was so cool about it then.

You have to FINISH reading the Dark Tower series....I couldn't wait to finish. How can you not be curious about what happens to old Roland,Jake,Eddie,Susan or Oy for that matter?? :lol:

The ending was actually quite fitting I thought.

Hyper~
I will eventually get around to it I think... the fifth book really put me off. I had to force myself through it and haven't gotten the sixth

[fred the bug]

I'm about halfway through Guardian, Saviors of Kamigawa. It's the third book in a trilogy that's actually pretty good for being a novel based of a Magic the Gathering card set. So far, it has been just as good as the other two.[/u]

[Fallen Templar]

The Anubis Gates by Tim Powers. I can't find any holes in the time travel plot; the magic is understandable but very non-RPG-style; and the man's writing skills just flat-out rock. Also has Egyptian elements and incorporates real events into a secret history. I strongly, strongly recommend it. Also, Declare by the same author is equally good, although longer and more challenging. Anubis Gate is great hope you enjoy it

[Fallen Templar]

Finished: The Prince
moving onto Against the Day

[GaryLASQ]

The Alphabet Versus The Goddess (http://www.alphabetvsgoddess.com/index.html)

[Flame Gryphon]

Just finished the Bartimaeus Trilogy, at the same time finished the Dragonspell series, and am working on Year of the Griffin.

[fred the bug]

Just finished the Bartimaeus Trilogy, at the same time finished the Dragonspell series, and am working on Year of the Griffin.
The Bartimaeus trilogy was awesome.

[soberman]

Fiction: The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami. Great surrealist writer with an ear for slightly off-kilter dialogue and a good sense of underlying theme derived from seemingly random occurances.

I've heard from quite a few people that The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle is great. It's on my list. I've read other Murakami (something about an elephant), and I wasn't able to get into it, but I will still check out the book you're reading.


I believe that is a short story collection. Short stories are often harder to appreciate as they only feel like fragments of an idea. My favorite Murakami is Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End Of The World but I've only read 4 of his books so far. That one would appeal to any sci-fi/fantasy fan, though, or anyone with an interest in psychology. It loosely inspired artist Yo****oshi Abe when he created the anime Haibane Renmei.
____________________________
now playing: Ashen Mortality Sleepless Remorse

[killercactus]

I am currently into the Lord of the Rings books, just about through Two Towers. They're great books, but very, very descriptive.

I finished the Harry Potter series right after the last book came out. Amazing.

I've also been through a bunch of the Star Wars: Expanded Universe books, and I think I'm going to take up the Golden Compass next.

[HyperLight]

I am currently into the Lord of the Rings books, just about through Two Towers. They're great books, but very, very descriptive.

I also thought parts of the series dragged on....Still a must read though!

I picked up a book from the StarWars: Rouge Squadron series a couple years ago and was quite impressed with it. It wasn't world changing literature mind you, just a fun read.

Hyper~

[MI_Tiger]

I picked up a book from the StarWars: Rouge Squadron series a couple years ago and was quite impressed with it. It wasn't world changing literature mind you, just a fun read.

Hyper~

I'm not a big Star Wars fan, but I loved the Rouge Squadron (and later Wraith Squadron) series. I know a lot of people prefer SW books that use the main movie characters (Luke, Han, ...), but I preferred the fact that Rouge Squadron focused on characters that were either brand new, or had very minor roles in the movies. The relative obscurity of the characters gave the authors more freedom with the plots. For example, if Luke Skywalker is in deadly peril, you know he'll find a way to escape; can you be so sure if its Gavin Darklighter in trouble?

I agree these books aren't exactly Pulitzer material, but definitely a fun read, even if you're not a die-hard SW fan.

[oni]

Fiction: The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami. Great surrealist writer with an ear for slightly off-kilter dialogue and a good sense of underlying theme derived from seemingly random occurances.

I've heard from quite a few people that The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle is great. It's on my list. I've read other Murakami (something about an elephant), and I wasn't able to get into it, but I will still check out the book you're reading.


An Elephant Vanishes is a collection of short stories, which can be a hit or miss experience. One of the stories became the basis for the first chapter of Wind Up Bird.

Wind Up Bird is one of my favorite books. If you liked that one, try Wild Sheep Chase and Hardboiled Wonderland.

[killercactus]

I am currently into the Lord of the Rings books, just about through Two Towers. They're great books, but very, very descriptive.

I also thought parts of the series dragged on....Still a must read though!

They definitely do. However, being one that was introduced to LotR through the movies, it's very interesting to see where the inspiration came from. Peter Jackson did an incomprehensible job of adapting these books to film.

I picked up a book from the StarWars: Rouge Squadron series a couple years ago and was quite impressed with it. It wasn't world changing literature mind you, just a fun read.

Hyper~

No, not Earth-shattering literature by any means, but definitely very fun. Actually, if they were to make Timothy Zahn's trilogy of books about Grand Admiral Thrawn into another movie trilogy, I would be extremely excited.

[Hex_Enduction_Hour]

On my spring break, I finished reading Stephen King's It.
Also read The Running Man and the excellent, The Long Walk.

I'm currently on Salem's Lot.

[Jandars_Hope]

Finished A Game of Thrones yesterday (which was an awesome book) and now i'm ready to begin A Clash of Kings.

[Gulp]

Finished A Game of Thrones yesterday (which was an awesome book) and now i'm ready to begin A Clash of Kings.

Welcome to the George RR Martin addiction! He has a website and a blog that he updates pretty regularly at www.georgerrmartin.com (http://www.georgerrmartin.com).

Also, when you finish the books in the series you're reading now, I highly recommend finding A Song for Lya. It's a short story for which he won the Nebula Award. The easiest place to find it now is in the big Dreamsongs Vol. 1 collection that came out within the last year.

Soon you'll be part of the frustrated masses of fantasy fans because once you've read Martin, nothing else compares.

[keglo]

Soon you'll be part of the frustrated masses of fantasy fans because once you've read Martin, nothing else compares.

Man, that statement is so true. I find myself comparing everything to Martin. They never measure up IMO.

[Roland]

Which is why I refuse to read Martin until I have indulged myself in other fiction.

[InThisMoment]

Chuck Palahniuk - Haunted.


Freaky strange book. Palahniuk is by far my favorite author around. I mean seriously, was Choke not just so bizarre that it was god-like???

[ewabbie]

Finally on the last book of the Dark Tower.

[ZBeeblebrox]

S.M Stirling's Dies the fire

An altenative history novel where a strange occurance causes all guns and electrictiy not to work.
Centered in Oregon in 1998. What happens to our world, when modern people have to live like our ancestors.

Wars begin, but with sword and shield, as people struggle to survive.

It's a great novel, by one of my favorite Alternate History novelists.

Almost finshed it and its awesome.

[yagyuninja]

S.M Stirling's Dies the fire

An altenative history novel where a strange occurance causes all guns and electrictiy not to work.
Centered in Oregon in 1998. What happens to our world, when modern people have to live like our ancestors.

Wars begin, but with sword and shield, as people struggle to survive.

It's a great novel, by one of my favorite Alternate History novelists.

Almost finshed it and its awesome.

I just looked this up (because your description makes it sound pretty awesome) and apparently it takes place not just in Oregon but in the Willamette Valley. One of the books in the series is called A Meeting in Corvallis, which is where I went to college, and is about 45 minutes from where I live now. So yeah, I'll be reading these. Thanks!

[Gulp]

Chuck Palahniuk - Haunted.


Freaky strange book. Palahniuk is by far my favorite author around. I mean seriously, was Choke not just so bizarre that it was god-like???

Ugh... Haunted still gives me the creeps. Great book, but ... wow. I'll never swim in a pool with a pump again.

[nyys]

Just finished Bringing Down the House by Ben Mezrick, been meaning to read it since it came out a few years ago, but now with the movie (21) out, I finally relented. Very quick read, but also very good IMO.

[InThisMoment]

Chuck Palahniuk - Haunted.


Freaky strange book. Palahniuk is by far my favorite author around. I mean seriously, was Choke not just so bizarre that it was god-like???

Ugh... Haunted still gives me the creeps. Great book, but ... wow. I'll never swim in a pool with a pump again.

Oh my god i know. Being a girl that particualr short story A.) freaking grossed me out and B.) made me shiver when i thought of pools all this week, among other things.

So, i'm almost done now, and i can officially say it's one of THE best and most abhorrant books of all time. I really don't have words. It's filthy, distrubed, and artistic and deep. Read it if you're mature and have a strong stomach (definitely NOT kid-friendly)

[netherspirit]

S.M Stirling's Dies the fire

An altenative history novel where a strange occurance causes all guns and electrictiy not to work.
Centered in Oregon in 1998. What happens to our world, when modern people have to live like our ancestors.

Wars begin, but with sword and shield, as people struggle to survive.

It's a great novel, by one of my favorite Alternate History novelists.

Almost finshed it and its awesome.

I tried to read that not too long ago, and I couldn't get through it. Now, don't take that as a negative on the book, I have a very hard time finding books that I like.

The problem that I had with this one was the story was going back and forth between a few different groups of people and I really only cared about one group of them, the pilot and his group, and I had a hard time getting through the chapters that weren't about them.

[Oh Yeah! I'm Here]

A raisin in the sun.

[ej]

An Inconvenient Book

[Flame Gryphon]

Charlie Bone series, fantastic four marvel masterworks, and X-men marvel masterworks.

[zanter]

Charlie Bone series. Great books there.
:up:

~Z~

[Flame Gryphon]

Charlie Bone series. Great books there.
:up:

~Z~

Aye!

[massivenewbage]

Snow Crash by Neal Stephenson. Maybe not the first but definitely and early vision of a matrix style world. Get it. Read it. Love it.

[zanter]

Charlie Bone series. Great books there.
:up:

~Z~

Aye! Which one are you on?

I was think that they should of left it at number five, but the sixth was great, And I think now I want a seventh!

~Z~

[nyys]

About to start A Feast for Crows by George RR Martin.

[keglo]

About to start A Feast for Crows by George RR Martin.

Same here. But I am almost through it. I love the book and now I wonder why I put off reading it for so long. I was worried about it missing so many pov characters, but the book still rocks as is.


Death to Cerci!

[nyys]

About to start A Feast for Crows by George RR Martin.

Same here. But I am almost through it. I love the book and now I wonder why I put off reading it for so long. I was worried about it missing so many pov characters, but the book still rocks as is.

Death to Cerci!

Opening to page one during lunch break today. This is definitely one of the best fantasy series I've read, I keep changing the order of which one I think is the best between A Song of Ice and Fire (Martin), The Sword of Truth (Goodkind), and Mithgar (McKiernan).

[keglo]

I keep changing the order of which one I think is the best between A Song of Ice and Fire (Martin), The Sword of Truth (Goodkind), and Mithgar (McKiernan).

While I have not read or heard of Mithgar, I have read most of the Sword of Truth (all but Chainfire), and for me, there is no comparison. Martin's work is far superior. After I try out Jim Butchers work, which is next on my list, I might have to look into the Mithgar.

[nyys]

I keep changing the order of which one I think is the best between A Song of Ice and Fire (Martin), The Sword of Truth (Goodkind), and Mithgar (McKiernan).

While I have not read or heard of Mithgar, I have read most of the Sword of Truth (all but Chainfire), and for me, there is no comparison. Martin's work is far superior. After I try out Jim Butchers work, which is next on my list, I might have to look into the Mithgar.

Did you know that HBO is turning Martin's books into a series? They're dedicating a full season to each book, and since it's on HBO you know it'll be great and done right, as opposed to a network tv mini-series.

Goodkinds books are going to tv too from what I hear.

I highly recommend Dennis L Mckiernan's Mithgar Series, the 1st book is The Dragonstone. I read his works in Chronological order as opposed to written order (for the Mithgar Books), for the style of story I like to read the whole thing is perfect. It's the first series I've read where when I came to the end I was actually depressed because there would be no further installments.

http://home.att.net/~dlmck/pubwrks.htm

[keglo]

Did you know that HBO is turning Martin's books into a series? They're dedicating a full season to each book, and since it's on HBO you know it'll be great and done right, as opposed to a network tv mini-series.

Yep. I knew but I haven't heard an update on it in quite some time. Do you know when it is to start? I do not even have cable right now, but when that series comes out it will be all the excuse that I need to get it. I can't wait. I have not heard that Goodkind's work was coming to the screen though.

[ZBeeblebrox]

S.M Stirling's Dies the fire

An altenative history novel where a strange occurance causes all guns and electrictiy not to work.
Centered in Oregon in 1998. What happens to our world, when modern people have to live like our ancestors.

Wars begin, but with sword and shield, as people struggle to survive.

It's a great novel, by one of my favorite Alternate History novelists.

Almost finshed it and its awesome.

I tried to read that not too long ago, and I couldn't get through it. Now, don't take that as a negative on the book, I have a very hard time finding books that I like.

The problem that I had with this one was the story was going back and forth between a few different groups of people and I really only cared about one group of them, the pilot and his group, and I had a hard time getting through the chapters that weren't about them.

I have to agree with you Netherspirit, Havel's group was much more interesting...but Stirling brings both groups together later in the book. Plus Juniper's group was more interesting once the fighting started.

[nyys]

Did you know that HBO is turning Martin's books into a series? They're dedicating a full season to each book, and since it's on HBO you know it'll be great and done right, as opposed to a network tv mini-series.

Yep. I knew but I haven't heard an update on it in quite some time. Do you know when it is to start? I do not even have cable right now, but when that series comes out it will be all the excuse that I need to get it. I can't wait. I have not heard that Goodkind's work was coming to the screen though.

Yeah it has been a while with any official update. Not sure when it's supposed to come out either but The Sword of Truth is going to be mini-series style on a channel like USA or TBS if I remember correctly.

[Gulp]

Opening to page one during lunch break today. This is definitely one of the best fantasy series I've read, I keep changing the order of which one I think is the best between A Song of Ice and Fire (Martin), The Sword of Truth (Goodkind), and Mithgar (McKiernan).

I haven't read McKiernan in years, but even back when he was just starting to publish his stuff stood out from the crowd. Then again I also used to think that Dragonlance books were amazing. Neat stories, but man those Dragonlance books didn't age well. Kind of like watching GI Joe as an adult. What was I thinking?

[Flame Gryphon]

Charlie Bone series. Great books there.
:up:

~Z~

Aye! Which one are you on?

I was think that they should of left it at number five, but the sixth was great, And I think now I want a seventh!

~Z~

Finishing 4th, have fifth, and didn't know there was a sixth. Were is it? :drool:

[zanter]

Charlie Bone series. Great books there.
:up:

~Z~

Aye! Which one are you on?

I was think that they should of left it at number five, but the sixth was great, And I think now I want a seventh!

~Z~

Finishing 4th, have fifth, and didn't know there was a sixth. Were is it? :drool: it's called Charlie bone and the beast, try looking it up at your library.

[Ormus]

These books are a blatant Harry Potter rip-off. They might as well have called them "Barry Plopper" and got it over with...

[zanter]

These books are a blatant Harry Potter rip-off. They might as well have called them "Barry Plopper" and got it over with... Actually, have you read them? they do have a lot in common with HP, but they are different enough to be good.

[Joah]

Did you know that HBO is turning Martin's books into a series? They're dedicating a full season to each book, and since it's on HBO you know it'll be great and done right, as opposed to a network tv mini-series.

Yep. I knew but I haven't heard an update on it in quite some time. Do you know when it is to start? I do not even have cable right now, but when that series comes out it will be all the excuse that I need to get it. I can't wait.

It is looking more&more like the HBO thing won't happen. Which totally sucks.

[Flame Gryphon]

These books are a blatant Harry Potter rip-off. They might as well have called them "Barry Plopper" and got it over with... Actually, have you read them? they do have a lot in common with HP, but they are different enough to be good.

Only the main character can do magic, and thats only because his wand has power, all the children are endowed, like my favorite, Asa Pike, (the Beast, as he's called.)

[keglo]

"Furies of Calderon" by Jim Butcher.

[Flame Gryphon]

Dragonfire, Ghost Rider, and Fantastic Four. (I LOVE BOOKS!)

[johnny139]

I just finished The Phantom of the Opera. FANTASTIC book. With a lot of the classics, things feel very clunky and out of date... not so here! The whole thing feels like a modern book set in the 1800s, not a book written in 1910. It really speaks for its timelessness.

And the story is, of course, perfect. The misunderstood and brilliant Phantom, the lovestruck, driven Raoul, the beautiful Christine... so many character archetypes that have become common nowadays.

[dragon]

Since I've run out of R.A. Salvatore to read I just, as of yesterday, reread Hour of the Dragon by Robert E. Howard. It's his only Conan story that is actually novel length, albiet a short one.
It got me thinking that it would be pretty cool to have a barbarian hero in heroscape.
Of course, a squad of dark elfs for Utgars Army would be interesting as well.

[Fallen Templar]

Currently Reading Settling Accounts: Return Engagement by the Master of Alternate History: Harry Turtldove. The Book is Amazing, written superbly to add depth to an alternate we can all believe. Great Irony in this book. The Book is set in Turtledove's 191 series when the south was able to successfully break from the Union. World War 1 happens with Britain and France Allying with the CSA and the USA allying with Germany. USA and Germany are able to prevail and defeat the South and their allies.
As such Hitler never takes power but remains in the personal army of the Kaiser. I highly recommend this whole series of books
the quick Summary above is a very quick sum up of the books 3 or 4 books before the Alt WWII Series: Settling Accounts

[Flame Gryphon]

Black Gryphon, Charlie Bone and the Beast, and The Divide.

[Elstree]

The Book is set in Turtledove's 191 series when the south was able to successfully break from the Union. World War 1 happens with Britain and France Allying with the CSA and the USA allying with Germany. USA and Germany are able to prevail and defeat the South and their allies. As such Hitler never takes power but remains in the personal army of the Kaiser.

This just screams GURPS campaign.

[JoutnFAN77]

I just finished Sabriel by Garth Nix and I am starting the sequil. I am also reading a ton of Eoin Colfer Books

[Heroscape Elffy]

I'm reading The Keys to the Kingdom Series by Garth Nix. Great Series. I'm also reading Ranger's Apprentice and Charlie Bone books.

[InfinityMax]

"Furies of Calderon" by Jim Butcher.
Great book. Great series. Loads of fun.

Currently Reading Settling Accounts: Return Engagement by the Master of Alternate History: Harry Turtldove.
I'm also reading Turtledove right now, but I'm reading the 'Balance' series, where aliens invade Earth right smack in the middle of WW2. I'm almost done. It's also pretty fun.

[netherspirit]

I'm reading Simon R. Green's Something From the Nightside its pretty good so far.

[Shades fan]

I am actually reading one of my favorite books,"To Kill a Mockingbird"
I love the book and this is my third time reading it.:D

[Elstree]

I am actually reading one of my favorite books,"To Kill a Mockingbird"
I love the book and this is my third time reading it.:D

So what do you think? Harper Lee or Truman Capote?

[Hex_Enduction_Hour]

Salem's Lot.

[Shades fan]

I am actually reading one of my favorite books,"To Kill a Mockingbird"
I love the book and this is my third time reading it.:D

So what do you think? Harper Lee or Truman Capote?
That is to hard of a question seeing they both were friends.
Seeing as Capote wrote "In cold Blood", I will have to say Copote,But My favorite book is still To Kill a Mockingbird. Of course I haven't read everything there is so I don't know what my favorite book will be in the future.:D

[Elstree]

I am actually reading one of my favorite books,"To Kill a Mockingbird"
I love the book and this is my third time reading it.:D

So what do you think? Harper Lee or Truman Capote?
That is to hard of a question seeing they both were friends.
Seeing as Capote wrote "In cold Blood", I will have to say Copote,But My favorite book is still To Kill a Mockingbird. Of course I haven't read everything there is so I don't know what my favorite book will be in the future.:D

What I meant was, who do you think wrote To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee or Truman Capote? It's the only thing she ever wrote, and one theory suggests Capote wrote it as a tribute to his childhood friend, Lee.

[Shades fan]

I am actually reading one of my favorite books,"To Kill a Mockingbird"
I love the book and this is my third time reading it.:D

So what do you think? Harper Lee or Truman Capote?
That is to hard of a question seeing they both were friends.
Seeing as Capote wrote "In cold Blood", I will have to say Copote,But My favorite book is still To Kill a Mockingbird. Of course I haven't read everything there is so I don't know what my favorite book will be in the future.:D

What I meant was, who do you think wrote To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee or Truman Capote? It's the only thing she ever wrote, and one theory suggests Capote wrote it as a tribute to his childhood friend, Lee.
Yes but being that Dill seems to be Capote,I would say Lee wrote it,but it is a convincing point on how she only wrote 1 book.:ponder:

[land.scape]

I've been reading the Ranger's Apprentice series. Book four comes out March 9. Unless You live in Australia... Then you are waiting for Book Eight!!! :ninja:

My son has read most all the US releases and loves them. And the author was in town recently, so now my son's got his set signed too. Personally, autographs don't do much for me, but getting one sure brings out a crowd.

[Hahma]

Nam by Mark Baker

[Jandars_Hope]

Just started A Storm of Swords Book 2 (from the Song of Fire and Ic series)

[Hahma]

Regarding the book "Nam" that I am currently reading, it's quite amazing and disturbing. I had originally read it over twenty years ago and while it had always left a lasting impression with me, I wanted to read it again and revisit the horror that was Vietnam.

The book came out around '81 and is basically a collection of real life anectdotes and short stories as told to the author by the men and women that served over there. After reading this book, it's easy to understand why most of Vietnam vets don't want to talk about their experiences.

This book is for those who would like to understand not only how horrible and whacky the conditions were over there, but also to see how quickly and easily a person can lose their humanity and become something that doesn't resemble their former self.

Very graphic.

[Hahma]

Private - by Lester Atwell

Diaries and accounts of an infantryman during the Battle of the Bulge in WWII.

[Lord Pyre]

Just finished reading Star Wars: Legacy of the Force Revelation.

That series is really darn good.....


I'm about to start Adam, by Ted Dekker.

[oni]

Lust, Caution

The Legend of Deathwalker

Thurday Next: First Among Sequels

[kenjib]

The Garden of Forking Paths by Borges.

His style is just right for me so I'm wondering why I've never read Borges before. Ah well, it's never too late. :)

[yagyuninja]

Just finished The Time Travelers Wife by Audrey Nifenegger. My wife made me read it, but it was pretty good.

Now reading World War Z by Max Brooks. (thanks zombie survival thread! :) )

[rym]

I've been reading the Ranger's Apprentice series. Book four comes out March 9. Unless You live in Australia... Then you are waiting for Book Eight!!! :ninja:

My son has read most all the US releases and loves them. And the author was in town recently, so now my son's got his set signed too. Personally, autographs don't do much for me, but getting one sure brings out a crowd.

That's a really fun series. I didn't know book 4 was out though. Gotta get on the ball.

[Nooblar]

Mere Christianity, by C.S. Lewis

[KalisLord]

The Lucifer Effect: Understanding How Good People Turn Evil, by Philip Zimbardo

This book focuses on the stanford prison experiment, abu ghraib, and heroism from a social psychologists perspective. It is really intereseting if you are into this sort of thing.

[netherspirit]

I'm on book four of the Nightside series by Simon R. Green, its called Hex and the City

[tyguy94920]

I am about finnished with Mort by Terry Pratchett

The first time I read it I hated it, but this time I rather enjoy it, not a bad read

It proves two things:

1- You can't judge a book by its cover
2- Everything deserves a second chance

Also for an extra credit reading project I can read The Picture of Dorian Grey

I have wanted to read it since I saw The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, now I have a reason too

[netherspirit]

I have wanted to read it since I saw The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, now I have a reason too


Not sure if you're into comics, but you should read that graphic novel, it's much better than the movie. :)

[Heroscape Elffy]

Alex Rider Series book 5: Scorpia by Anthony Horowitz.
I'm also reading The Falcon's Malteser, also by Mr. Horowitz.

[Padwhite]

I'm currently reading "Through Wolf's Eyes" by Jane Lindskold. Really enjoying it so far. I got it free from Tor.com (http://tor.com/). They send you a free sci-fi/fantasy book each week. They try to get you to buy by giving you the first in a series (at least, I think that is their angle).

[Lord Pyre]

Alex Rider Series book 5: Scorpia by Anthony Horowitz.

Ooh, Scorpia's a really good book. They should've ended the series there, for reasons you'll get to. It would've been a perfect ending, but he decided to write two more...

I've read #6, but I don't even know if #7's out yet. :?

[johnny139]

Finished up Smoke and Mirrors, again by Neil Gaiman, today. As per usual (well, from what I've seen in American Gods and Neverwhere), each and every story was FANTASTIC. Each time I read one I thought "Wow, that's the best so far!" only to say it again next story. Murder Mystery is without a doubt my favorite, though... I don't particularly consider myself religious, or even Christian, but it's certainly made me feel a little closer to God each time I've read it.

Next up - Anansi Boys. Then I'll save up for Volume 1 of Sandman, and finally start on his Graphic Novels.

[Firemaster]

I just finished reading the Ultimate Hitchhiker's Guide, after watching the Hitchhiker's movie. Good book (or several books, depending on how you look at it), would probably make a good CoN theme. Now I am going to be reading:

Foundation's Edge by Isaac Isamov
The Client by John Grisham
Net Force: Cyber Nation by Tom Clancy

Currently, my two favorite authors are Clancy and Grisham. I'm trying to find and read all books they have written. Any suggestions on which I should look for first?

[netherspirit]

Now I am going to be reading:

Foundation's Edge by Isaac Isamov

Asimov.

I enjoy Asimov's robot stuff. I've read Prelude to the Foundation, but never got around to reading the rest of that series. I wanted to read the Empire Series first, it comes between the Robot Series (which I've read and loved!) and the Foundation, but that too I haven't gotten around to yet.

[Elstree]

Now I am going to be reading:

Foundation's Edge by Isaac Isamov

Asimov.

I enjoy Asimov's robot stuff. I've read Prelude to the Foundation, but never got around to reading the rest of that series. I wanted to read the Empire Series first, it comes between the Robot Series (which I've read and loved!) and the Foundation, but that too I haven't gotten around to yet.
The Foundation series is definitely one of the all-time great series in science fiction. Of those I've read, I'd place it second only to the Dune series. There's admittedly a lot I haven't read though.

[Firemaster]

The Foundation series is definitely one of the all-time great series in science fiction. Of those I've read, I'd place it second only to the Dune series. There's admittedly a lot I haven't read though.

I've read Books 2 and 3 of the Foundation series so far (I've never been able to find the first book), and found it interesting when I found this book 4 of the series, since I thought it was a trilogy.

[KalisLord]

I finished reading "The Lucifer Effect" and have now moved onto "A Primate's Memoir" by Robert M. Sapolsky. Another nerd book for myself... The book is about Dr. Sapolsky's trips to Africa to study baboons. He recounts the tales of his interactions with the locals, growing up due to his experiences there, and the lives of the baboons. For me it is an exceptionally interesting story which is inspiring me to go a little "bush crazy" myself in the future.

[Elstree]

The Foundation series is definitely one of the all-time great series in science fiction. Of those I've read, I'd place it second only to the Dune series. There's admittedly a lot I haven't read though.

I've read Books 2 and 3 of the Foundation series so far (I've never been able to find the first book), and found it interesting when I found this book 4 of the series, since I thought it was a trilogy.

See here (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foundation_series). Asimov himself wrote seven Foundation novels. Another Foundation trilogy was written by other authors after Asimov's death at the request of his wife. Apparently there's also a collection of short stories set in the Foundation universe.

[jbbnbsmith]

Among several others, I'm currently reading Dawkins' The God Delusion, and Pullman's The Golden Compass. I guess I'm going through a "books written by atheists" phase.:)

I've just about finished my second reading of The God Delusion. I don't want to spark a debate, so I'll just say that while I found portions to be very interesting and even instructive, there were many sections that were surprisingly weak given his obviously great intellect and writing abilities. Although I figured going in that I would disagree with his conclusions, I expected better. Still, the book does a good job in dealing with a massive topic. I suspect that I will be referencing passages from this book in my sermons for quite a while. I probably need to buy my own copy so I can write all in the margins.

I'm only about 6 chapters into the Golden Compass, but so far it is very well written and I am enjoying it a great deal. I especially like the way Lyra's world is slowly revealed a little bit at a time leaving the reader to speculate about many things until they are finally explained.

[Heroscape Elffy]

His Dark Materials series is a great one. Good choice jbbnbsmith!

[Firemaster]

See here (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foundation_series). Asimov himself wrote seven Foundation novels. Another Foundation trilogy was written by other authors after Asimov's death at the request of his wife. Apparently there's also a collection of short stories set in the Foundation universe.

Interesting. After reading the list of books there, I now have 20 or so books on my "to read" list. Do you know if any of them actually brings about the Second Empire?

[Nooblar]

Foundation was good, but it never grabbed me the way other series did.

jbbnbsmith, I saw Richard Dawkins interviewed in the film Expelled, and I agree that some of his arguments are weak. I heard another book mentioned by another person in the film: The Dawkins Delusion. Worth checking out?

[Lord Pyre]

Just finished Ted Dekker's Adam.

Really good. It was kind of a psychological/religious thriller. Worth picking up.

[jbbnbsmith]

Foundation was good, but it never grabbed me the way other series did.

jbbnbsmith, I saw Richard Dawkins interviewed in the film Expelled, and I agree that some of his arguments are weak. I heard another book mentioned by another person in the film: The Dawkins Delusion. Worth checking out?
I actually am reading The Dawkins Delusion now. Not bad, definitely worth reading as an opposing, and much shorter, perspective. It too contains some strong arguments and some weak.

[keglo]

Jim Butcher's Codex Alera book 4: Captain's Fury

[Shades fan]

The Tempest By: William Shakespear!
:D
I bought the translated version though, so kind of a cop out!:oops:

[netherspirit]

Jim Butcher's Codex Alera book 4: Captain's Fury

I would say take your time because the next one doesn't come out until December, but once you get about 1/4 of the way into that you won't be able to put it down.

[Hahma]

Jim Butcher's Codex Alera book 4: Captain's Fury

I would say take your time because the next one doesn't come out until December, but once you get about 1/4 of the way into that you won't be able to put it down.


I agree Nether, it's not one to put down once you get into it. Though Keglo can always read it again right before the next one comes out:)

[Elstree]

The Tempest By: William Shakespear!
:D
I bought the translated version though, so kind of a cop out!:oops:

The translated version? I don't get it. It's written in English, right?

Lear is still my favorite.

[Shades fan]

The Tempest By: William Shakespear!
:D
I bought the translated version though, so kind of a cop out!:oops:

The translated version? I don't get it. It's written in English, right?

Lear is still my favorite.
No it's No Fear Shakespear It is translated from Shakespearian text to normal english, if you want to think about it,
Old English> New English!
Yeah I like the other plays better, but English class and all, so thought I better catch up, and use the New English! It is kind of when you read a Austin Book, it takes me a while to get into it because of how its written, Which is the reason I bought the easier version if you think about it that way. If I'm not into a book, I just won't feel like reading it!

[jbbnbsmith]

The Tempest By: William Shakespear!
:D
I bought the translated version though, so kind of a cop out!:oops:

The translated version? I don't get it. It's written in English, right?

Lear is still my favorite.
No it's No Fear Shakespear It is translated from Shakespearian text to normal english, if you want to think about it,
Old English> New English!
Yeah I like the other plays better, but English class and all, so thought I better catch up, and use the New English! It is kind of when you read a Austin Book, it takes me a while to get into it because of how its written, Which is the reason I bought the easier version if you think about it that way. If I'm not into a book, I just won't feel like reading it!
So do the paraphrased versions still rhyme?
A major part of what makes Shakespear so great is not the plot of the stories, but the word play, and the sheer beauty of the language.

I've not seen a "No Fear Shakespear" text, but I think I would prefer, and recommend, an annotated version. This keeps the original but also contains lots and lots of notes explaining archaic words and word play. So not only does it help you understand exactly what is written, it also is very educational in expanding your vocabulary. You can find these in most public libraries.

Just a thought.

Edit: I just looked up "No Fear Shakespear" and I see that it contains both the original and the modern text, so as long as you actually take time to read both columns it will be somewhat instructive. However, it seems that it does nothing to explain some of the clever word play (including some of the rather crude jokes) found throughout the text.

[keglo]

Jim Butcher's Codex Alera book 4: Captain's Fury

I would say take your time because the next one doesn't come out until December, but once you get about 1/4 of the way into that you won't be able to put it down.


I agree Nether, it's not one to put down once you get into it. Though Keglo can always read it again right before the next one comes out:)

Nether and Hahma,

Too late. I am already to into it. All of these books have been impossible to put down. I have tried to milk this last one because I know that other book isn't out yet.....but I just can't help it. I think I will have to re-read them all November. I must say that this series has shot up to become one of my top favorites. I think that I might be enjoying this almost as much as Martin's books :shock:.

[yagyuninja]

A major part of what makes Shakespear so great is not the plot of the stories, but the word play, and the sheer beauty of the language.

I agree! Shakespear is always such an experience to read. :)

I finished World War Z (great fun) and I read a bunch of comic trade paperbacks in the meantime.

JLA, League of One - Wonder Woman takes on an ancient dragon. Pretty fun.
Batman: Black and White - Collection of batman short stories by big name comics artists and writers, all black and white. Some really cool art, and at least two *really* good stories (the first two, unfortunately).
Planet Hulk - After Hulk saves the freakin planet by destroying some evil satellite (or something) Reed Richards, Tony Stark, and some other jerks send his spaceship off to some distant galaxy. Hulk finds a new life for himself as a gladiator and messiah of sorts for a planet. Really cool mix of Sci-fi and Hulk. Can't wait to read World War Hulk, where Hulk comes home to make the jerks that shot him into space pay.

Now I'm reading the Deathworld trilogy by Harry Harrison. My grandfather suggested it when I asked him about good sci-fi (Hulk got me warmed up). I was hooked just a couple pages in. Anyone else read these?