For the past four years I have attempted to read 100 books in one year. Although the challenge has never been completed, I have felt fulfilled in the knowledge that I have gained quite a bit through this challenge; this being the reason why I come back for more. Honestly some of my selections have been grueling in page number and in pace and other have been thouroghly enjoyable, which is why I rate and comment each now as a guide to your own literary travels. Click on the buttons towards the right to see my past attempts. Enjoy!
The Rules
Well, first all books have to be of a sizeable length, but maybe for any purpose (ie knowledge, leisure, resource reading, required course reading, etc). Second, each must be completed within the one year span and I should be able to discuss anyone or draw certain things for each piece.So anyways, it started December 31th of 2003...and it ended December 31th 2004.
Why the low numbers this year?
I feel my task has gained less ground this year, because other aspects of my life have crept up. Social engagements, Time spent at school and Obligations to work ahev stepped in the way of this goal. Maybe next year.
How far did I get?
Final Total: 49
1. American Places encounters with history edited by William E. Leuchtenburg (387 pp, 2000) [***]
Bought this at the SUNY Cortland bookstore real cheap and just got to its pages. The book is filled with essays by well known historians about the places where they feel history comes alive. Travel and history buffs would enjoy. McPherson's Gettysburg essay is moving and common to what I have always felt of the place. Robert Dallek's essay on the FDR Memorial is full of interesting history about monument building in America. Other interesting essays included Pennslyvania Avenue, Greensboro NC and the small town of Barre MA. Good read, well worth my time. Hopefully get to travle to a few of these places real soon.
2.How to Open Your Own Store a how to guide by Michale Antoniak (271 pp, 1994) [*]
Bought this book at the Thrall Used bookstore and was fairly dissappointed. First off, I was always waiting for the author to tell me how to open my store, but he never really got to it. Instead, he muddled around in the preparations of store owning (what to sell, specialized stores, how to brainstorm on what kind of store). If I wanted help on how to think of what to sell I wouldn't be buying a book on how to open a store. Anyways The author suggests to spoeak to other entreprenuers who have already taken up the task, something I would have thought of on my own. I was hoping that Mr. Antoniak was an expert himself and would save me the trouble of talking to people who probably rather not have me take away their buisness. Most importantly, being published in '94 meant there was no useful information on internet sales. All this for 50 cents.
3.Exploring Our National Historic Parks and Sites historic and travel guide by Russell D. Butcher (513 pp, 1997) [****]
Loaned out from Thrall Library, this book sparked my interest because it is a guide that focuses on historic parks and not national parks protected for their natural characteristics. The book is organized under time periods, such as vearious wars, movements and social situations of our country. Many of the parks featured in this book are obscure, but Butcher provides a definitive account of what went on in the area of the park to make it important in Amerian history. The last few chapters were of particular interest because Butcher lists many of the problems facing our national parks and the many efforts to relieve them. Also, Butcher provides a growing list of places many purpose to become national parks. Again, may only be interesting to travel and history buffs.
4.Alice's Adventures in Wonderland a ficticious classic by Lewis Carroll (116pp, re-pr 1960) [**** 1/2]
Ahhhh fiction! So yes, it has been awhile since I have read any fistion. I picked the right book. I have never read this classic and the drug induced mayhem is very delightful. Full of amazing characters and crazy situation, metaphorical philosophy and fanciful tangents, Alice's Adventures is an all ages book, but not for everyone. Beautiful illustrations adorn this book and have been very inspirational to my art endeavors.
5.Jesus and Buddha parrellel sayings edited by Marcus Borg(272pp, 1999) [**]
Loaned from Thrall, this book looked to be interesting. I was hoping that the author would provide some commentary and some investigative work to tie Jesus and Buddha's sayings together. But, alas, he did not. Instead, one sentence sayings by either faced what was often a rather vaguely parellel saying from the other enlightened human. Many of the parellels relied on similar wording and not similar teachings. The editor seemed to take some obscure quotes out of very important stories, which would leave any unknowledgeable reader in the dark. A bit disappointing, especially when looking to learn more about the two philosophies.
6.The Martian Chronicles a sci-fi novel by Ray Bradbury (181pp, 1958) [****]
Inherited from my deceased Uncle Bill, it was avery good read. The first few chapters I was unable to put this book down. Like any good sci-fi, this book is filled with a lot of useful philosophy, speciafically about respecting other's cultures and egocentricism. Beautifully descriptive, yet easy to read and character filled. Bradbury is becoming a favorite author of mine.
7.Life of Pi a novel by Yann Martel (319pp, 2001) [*****]
A very fine novel. This book was winer of the Man Booker Prize and was up on the bestseller list for awhile. The cover is actually what caught my eye, and after a few months of not ever having the money I picked up a copy at the Thrall Used Bookstore. The premise: A boy grows up in India, father owns a zoo, inherits a love for animals even though his father is only a businesman. Modern India is packed with different backgrounds, Pi accepts all religions as his own. This point there is both are a lot of religious ideals and humorous incidents. They decide to sell the zoo and move to Canada. When shipping the animals, family is aboard and ship sinks. Pi shares a lifeboat with an oragutan, gazelle, a tiger and others. Anyways not to say thewhole story, this book can be extremely hilarious and is a worthy read. One new author to keep in mind.
8.A Mother in History interviews and biography of Lee Harvey Oswald's Mother by Jean Stafford (122pp, 1966) [**]
Decent read. Too analytical, judging the mother of this so-called assasin. His mother seems very verygentle and sincere when in her own words, but the author thens contorts them to have a hidden meaning. This is a poor piece of investigative journalism, but the subject matter kept me reading.
8.A Mother in History interviews and biography of Lee Harvey Oswald's Mother by Jean Stafford (122pp, 1966) [**]
Decent read. Too analytical and judging the mother of this so-called assasin. His mother seems very very gentle and sincere when in her own words, but the author thens contorts them to have a hidden meaning. This is a poor piece in the way of investigative journalism, but the subject matter kept me reading.
9.Junk Sculpture history and projects by Gregg LeFevre (48pp, 1973) [**]
Okay guide, thought it was all history of the movement and different approaches by artists. Rather it was a book that gave projects of one's own to try to be "creative" with egg cartons and tin cans, etc. A very good book for younf students and educators of young students. Not a bad idea engine.
10.The Prophet poetry and philosophy by Kahil Gibran (105pp, re-pr 1995) [*****]
One of those books i feel everyone should read at least once. Each chapter deals with a different aspect of life and gives the most astounding explanations of them. The good and the bad of each and the reason why they are here on this earth. Gibran really seems like a prophet to me, and he speaks fully mindful of God as his Creator. Both infinitely sad and infinitely uplifting, this work strikes all chords and asks sould to dwell on their existance and sparks hearts to feel. Don't believe me that a book can do such a thing... then read the book and let me know. Thank you so much Elyse for the introduction to this poet author.
11.Ecclesiastes book of the Holy Bible
12.Reincarnation: The Missing Link in Christianity weird argument by Elizabeth Clare Propohet (307pp, 1997) [*1/2]
Although I argree with the sentiments in this book, it was another arguemnet with lose connections. I think it would have been presented better as an opinion trying to speak to the readers soul. Rather, Prophet (yea, ironic isn't it) writes about obscure historical facts and bible lines. Does not provie for an interesting read.
13.Field Guide to Mysterious Places of Eastern North America guidebook by Salvatore M Trento (306pp, 1997) [*** 1/2]
Such an interesting book. Includes info on Pine Bush UFO sightings, Middletown Strange experiences, Ancient Cave sites in Florida, NY, Lifting Rocks in Port Jervis...and Clinton Road in West Milford. Great book from those interetsed in the paranormal and ancient rituals. Take it out from Thrall.
14.Othello tragedy play by William Shakespeare (314pp, re-pr 1993) [****]
Required Reading for English 2 at OCCC. One of Shakespeare's best, Othello is a prime example of what evil does when gone unchecked. With a multitude of varied cast, each with an elaborate character, the play twines peopel into a horrid structure of ill communication, with striking results. Shakespeare's use of language, setting and use of social structure play key in this great play. A must to read, watch or act.
15.This Land Was Theirs textbook/survey of tribes by Wendell H Oswalt (576pp, 2001) [*****]
Required Reading for Native American Indians class. Great Textbook. Very informative. Each tribe represented by this book is explained through both their aboriginal status and their current history. The text takes key tribes from various climates and environmental areas throughtout North America and gives a thorough yet concise history of each. Other chapeters include Native American and White Relations and the Future of Native American Societies. Decent read, even if not required reading.
16.Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee history of brutality of whites onto Native Americans by Dee Brown(487pp, 1970) [*****]
The brutal truth of how our scoiety was cultivated through blood and unanswered promises glares through this emotionally charged book. Reading this book brought forth a very violent hatred of this country and some of its history, and sounded a call to action within. Unfortunately, damage has been done, irreversably. Invokes great thought, mentally and emotionally.
17.The Giver a short novel by Lois Lowry (reread)(208pp, re-pr 2002) [*****]
This is the third time I read this book. Although a very simple novel, it provokes many questions and thinking. The visualization that one obtains from Lowry in her writing is beautiful. The characters are memorable and most of all this is a book that many people I know have read, and are very ready and able and wanting to discuss.
18.Sleepers Awake an art novel by Kenneth Patchen (328pp, 1969) [****]
A very interesting read from one of my favorite authors. I was very surprised and psyched to find this rare book at the OCCC Library. There is a ton of freethought art by the author alongside his words, which are also seemingly justa freeflow of consciousness. Weird creatures and cracked out lines round every page. "Remember don't trust the orange bears." Patchen never let's me down. Ask me to borrow a book if you wish to check him out.
19.A People & A Nation: Volume 1 college textbook by Mary Beth Norton (422pp, 2003) [*****]
This was a book for "American History through 1865" which I withdrew from in the summer and then retook in the fall. Very good class, and a unexpectedly accurate textbook. Incorporated itno the text are the roles of women and African American's, the plight of Natives and the bastardly myths that haunt the teaching of American History. As a history buff, this was much appreciated, as was the clear, human sounding text (which seems rare in college text).
20.Jefferson's Demons: Portrait of a Restless Mind a unique biography by Michael Knox Beran (288pp, 2003) [*** 1/2]
Because the text often skipped years between chapters, and made reference to many people in Jefferson's life (who I had little to no knowledge of before this book), it was a difficult read. I literally found myself pushing myself through it. However, it was very interesting, I had never known how complex Jefferson was. although he might be percieved as , as a larger-than-life figure now, at the time, hwe often had bouts of complete insecurity. Often followed by bouts of inspiration, these spans are often looked over by historians, but Beran takes an indepth look at the time that Jefferson spent, seemingly doing nothing, and his correspondances from those time frames. Although I withdrewof that history class while reading this book, it was well worthwhile.
21.A Midsummer Night's Dream a comdey by William Shakespeare (reread)(162pp, re-pr 1998) [***]
I was in the mood. Shakespeare can be real funny. I watched the movie right after, and I think the movie is worth more one's time. It was done very well.
22.Uncle John's Unstoppable Bathroom Reader random articles by Bathroom Reader Institute (522pp, 2003) [***]
If you haven't read any of these, I suggest them. They're so funny.
23.This Land Was Theirs a college text by Wendell H Oswalt (576pp, 2001) [*****]
My main text for a class at OCCC entitled "Native American Indians". This is a very broad book, which covers at least one tribe, current culture and aboriginal life, from each of Americas climate zones. As both my teacher and the author pointed out, needs change in different climate zones and therefor cultures do. Some of this class was a very abrupt awakening, some went against all my common knowledge, but that is what education is for, to deter myths and change views. Take the class if you get a chance.
24.Tulips and Chimenys poems by ee cummings(188pp, 1923) [****]
One of my favorite poets now, recently. Amazing free verse and flow. Take some time to tangle with these teasing words. Life might reveal more.
25.People of Plenty economic abundance and the American character by David M Potter (211pp, 1954) [**1/2]
This was a read which I forced myself through. Free from the OCCC Poli-Science Dept, this book, with the idea of abundance and the inevitable change of human character by that, intrigued me. I was disappointed by the age of the material. Half a century old, this book had little relavance and almost seemed like a juvenile interpretation of the material. The arguemnet basically tries to prove that democracy is a by-product of abundance and not vice-versa. One problem: I don't know if it happened to be different back then, as in situations have changed, or this was a propaganda based or funded project, but it talks of America as a pure democracy.... but then again back then , you were a RED if you happened to think otherwise.
26.Oleanna a play by David Mamet (96pp, 1993) [**]
I do not read plays well. This one was forced for Film and Literature class, so it was even less enjoyable. I did appreciate the sparse staging and the intensity that two characters have by the time the short play has ended. Some good twists.
27.Amadeus a play by peter Schaffer (160pp, 2001) [***]
Another required read for Film and Literature class. Very good story, but then again it was taken from history. Movie was extraordinarily better.
28.Dale Carnegie's Scrapbook quotes and inspiration collected by Dale Carnegie (241pp, 1970) [*****] (re-read)
This was a prize that was awarded my father way back when, taking a class on life management. I was introduced to the book in 7th grade and it has introduced me to new philosophies, and easy soul fixers ever since. Seem that I read this book almost every year at least once, and I never stop gaining from it.
29.Age of Innocence a novel by Edith Wharton (260pp, re-pr 2001) [*]
Required read: Film and Literature. A very long, articulate book. Maybe I just wasn't in the mood.
30.Exploring Delaware Water Gap History a very cool guice book by Susan Kopczynski (108pp, 2000) [****]
Bought this at the Gap visitors center and read it straight through in one night. Later took the tour with jimmy and tasha. Real cool to learn the history of an area you drive through for it's beauty so often. Ask toborrow it if you'd like.
31.Psalms book of The Bible 32.Rodin a biography and review of work by Andre LeClerc (35pp, 1970) [**1/2]
This was a perfect accompaniment to the Rodin Museum in downtown Philadelphia. Picked it up for a buck in a used bookshop blocks away. Great pictures.
32.The New Roadside America a guide by Douglas Kirby (288pp, 1992) [****]
Found at Thrall, this book was a fun read. Inspired me to get the hell outta here for awhile, which still hasn't happened just yet. What was very cool about this book, was not just the bizarro roadside attracts the authors found, nor their zany descriptions, but rather the inspiration and suggestion for everyne to find their own roadside wonderment. The true essence of a roadtrip is captured. It is the journey, not the destination. Have fun!
33.How to Uncover Your Past Life a spiritaul journey guide by Ted Andrews (198pp, 2002) [***]
I have thought I've been here before. I have had that feeling since day one. Three years old I remember feeling wiser than even my parents. Maybe I am wrong, or maybe I have been here before. Though the title fools a bit, this is a great book. It is more about finding that you could have had a past life, than finding specifics. Good book nonetheless. Thanks Teen!
34.Benjamin Franklin a biography by Edmund S Morgan (368pp, 2002) [**** 1/2]
Franklin, being a great thinker and socialite and Morgan, beinga fine writer and interpreter, make this book a great read. Morgan pushes history into a timeless realm. This book quenched a thirst for getting to know Franklin further and fulfilled a book report for American History.
35.Le Morte D'Arthur: Volume 1 the most prominant legends of King Arthur by Sir Thomas Malory (470pp, re-p 1969) [*****]
The companion text of the best class I have ever taken. Because this class was so defining in my life, this book will live in me forever and mor ethan likely be read often. Unfortunately my profesor died right after the class ended, and I am left with this text, to gain any more wisdom from the man. Truth is this book can be applied to all aspects of life and the human condition. I believe it portrays human nature even better than most say Shakespeare does. Once one gets past the old English, it becomes a very easy, fanciful, intriguing read. It really becomes a page turner and i am sorry I didn't get past the old English until half way through the course. Well worth anyones time.
36.Teach Yourself: Buddhism a tutorial by Clive Erricker (171pp, 1995) [**]
Thorough; to the point. This is a book on the basics of the religion, described much like a High school text book might dexcribe Buddhism. With few insights from the author, or any devotees, figurheads or leaders of the religion, it's hard to say if this guide really teaches one Buddism.
37.The Sketchbook of Geoffrey Crayon, gent. short stories and tall tales by Washington Irving (333pp, 1887) [****]
With tales like Rip Van Winkle and the legend of Sleepy Hollow, some of this is a familiar read. What is not familiar is all the humor involved in Irving's writings. First off, he originally published this book as if this Sketchbook ws actually someones journal of happenings in the Hudson Valley, as if they were a reproter. He never used his name, or hinted that these were fiction. Genius. Pure genius. Fun book. Plus you can feel real smart reading an early hardback edition.
38.Tall Tales of the Catskills by Frank Lee DuMond (200pp, 1968) [***]
I used to mesmorized by these tales as a kid. I found out that I still was, after re-reading it for a speech on folklore for a Communications class.
39.Alice in Wonderland zany novel by Lewis Carroll (re-read) (84pp, re-p 1993) [*****]
I cannot get enough of this adventure. This time i read to gain some insight for a particular art project I was working on. This novel is like a drug and will bring you out different than when you started, always. If I was Oprah and had a list this would be on it.
40.Instant Expert: Collecting Political Memoribilia by Frank Lee DuMond (224pp, 1968) [***]
What a useful book. Great for collectors, novice or not. I really found this to be exactly as it claims, instant expert by the end. Granted with any collection, you grow wiser and more understanding of values and markets as you get nto it, but this was a definite kick start. Now I'm obsessed, as with any of my collections. Maybe make a profit someday. Who knows.
41.Le Morte D' Arthur volume 2 by Sir Thomas Malory (re-read) (531pp, re-p 1969) [**** 1/2]
A few short words cannot express how much this book meant to me and how much the teacher who I had to read it for meant. This book holds the secrets of the universe, of our society, of our pursuit of lonliness and comradery at the same time. If you want to find the cyclic nature of our society check here, if you want to find your character flaws, check here. If you want to see the world in a whole new way, read...esp this one. Thank you Professor Lynch...RIP!
42.Selected Poems by Kenneth Patchen (re-read) (145pp, 1939) [***** ]
Hard to say anything bad about your favorite poet or author. Again an inspiring, motivating, hate-filling, loveing, marvelously encompassing book.
43.A Man's Journey of Simple Abundance inspirational by Sarah Ban Breathnach (443pp, 2000) [***1/2]
A very interesting read, with contributions from many modern minds. What is it to be man? Do boys never grow up and is the answer ever really found? Do we beat ourselves up too much under pressures of society? Seems this book has captured every true-life male role model I have ever had, including the things that I admire within myself. The book claims you will understand yourself more by the end, but I think I came out understanding my father, my brother, my friends and my grandfathers more. But maybe in understanding them, I will begin to undersatnd myself. I think I might hand this book to whomever I may someday ask to marry and ask her to read it. Ladies, check it out; you may understand our tireless efforts towards molding ourselves.
44.Understanding Human Communication by Ralph B Adler and George Rodman (544pp, 2002) [*]
Required Read for Fundamentals of Speech and Communication. I resolve I will never understand human communication, nor will anyone, for as soon as it is studied, it will evolve into something else. If too many know it's secrets, the tricks are gone. The gig is up.
45.Walking the Black Cat poems by Charles Simic (96pp, 1996) [****]
I bought this book used, years ago. I might have flipped through it in middle School, but shelved it- not for lack of interest in poetry, but for lack of understanding of adult themes. Actually what I call "adult themes" are probably more like Mid-20's crisis of self. Now that life isn't always rainbows and butterflys, the sometimes drag reality of this Pulitzer Prize winning poet, on a good day (meaning a particularly bad day for me) strikes real close to home. Don't get me wrong, plenty of optimism found in this anthology, and better yet plenty of poetic free-verse.
46.Song of Songs book of The Bible
47.Gunga Din and Other Favorite Poems by Rudyard Kipling (re-read) (70pp, re-p 1990) [***]
I feel ashamed that i subjected myself to some of this with an undeveloped mind back in Middle School. Fairly sexist and Often racist, these poems exemplify the white man's world of the late 1800's. I am glad muh of these ideals are faded nowadays. So what is this volume good for? To study. To know. To not forget. To question. A world History course up in Cortland brought race in these poems to my attention. I felt compelled to reread, with new eyes and a furthered mind. Still, the coming of age poem called "If" will forever be a favorite. A good thing to carry with one through his day.
48.Legends, Lies and Cherished Myths of American History retelling history by Richard Shenkman (224pp, 1992) [****1/2]
A must read for a history buff. Engaging and revealing. More than interesting. Thank you Logan for the gift.
49.The Greek Gods reference by Hoopes and Evslin (128pp, re-p 1995) [***]
Read to prep myself for a Greek Gods course, which i never ended up taking. This was a nice easy, quick read, designed for 7-12 graders. Knowledgable, enjoyable. Great illustrations!