Saturday, May 29, 2010

What's next?

I've recently been advised to start reading the Aubrey-Maturin series by Patrick O'Brian.The first book of the series is the now-famous story thanks to Russell Crowe, 'Master and Commander'. The series, I've been told, is much better than the movie, following the friendship and adventures of a ship captain and the doctor traveling with him. If the draw of a compelling story is not enough, the series has been touted for its historical and medical accuracy. Who knows, if one isn't careful, one just may learn something!

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Aggrandized Thievery

I've just started The Book Thief this week, and Scott has informed me that he has recently started it also. All those who would like to join in, please do!

 First impressions-
1. Death as the narrator is great. Sounds like the kind of guy I'd like to meet... uh, I take that back. But in all seriousness, I really appreciate the narrative format. I can really hear the voice of the storyteller in my head.

2. Scenery is described as if with broad strokes of thick oil paint. Maybe it's the heavy theme of colors, but I can really feel the mood of the settings.

3. This story is starting out a lot like The Hunger Games.  
   Similarities:
     a. scrawny poor girl  is oppressed by "the man" and learns how to scrap for herself.
     b. She disobeys to survive, and eventually starts sticking it to "the man".
     c. Enter blonde childhood friend who has been in love with her from the beginning.
     d. ... perhaps more to come. Let me know of you saw the parallel, or if I'm off my rocker.