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Book Thread: March 1st, 2026 [MP4]
[click to embiggen]
Book Sick
That’s today’s topic. But I don’t mean ‘sick’ as in bibliomaniacs like Richard Heber or Thomas Phillips, who both bought books compulsively and monomaniacally, so that at their deaths, each man had literal houses full of books which neither they, nor anyone else, had ever read. Nor do I mean people like one collector – and I can’t find the reference just now – who would buy a book and then proceed to buy up every other copy he could find, in order to destroy them and have in his possession the last copy in the world. What I mean by ‘book sick’ is a version of the quandary Linus found himself in the 1965 Peanuts cartoon above. In my case, it’s the frequent annoyance that I want to read something, and yet I am sick of every book in my library and don’t want to touch any of them. An added irritation is the presence of books on my shelves that I have had for years and never touched: just now I am looking at The Norman Conquest and Beyond, from 1983. I have owned it for more than 20 years, and yet have never opened it except once, just to see if I wanted to buy it. So then, book sick, I go out and buy yet more books that I’ll either never read or will go through a chapter or two and put aside. But get rid of them? No, because I might – might! – one day want to read one. Does this sound familiar to you?Comments
(Jump to bottom of comments)1
Why does something always seem to interfere with my enjoyment of the book thread?? Doesn't it understand it's the best thread of the week.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at March 01, 2026 09:01 AM (uQesX)
2
Tolle Lege
Posted by: Skip at March 01, 2026 09:01 AM (Ia/+0)
3
Booken morgen horden
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at March 01, 2026 09:01 AM (vfth7)
4
Good morning Book People!
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes. at March 01, 2026 09:01 AM (kpS4V)
5
That shoe is incredible
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at March 01, 2026 09:02 AM (vfth7)
6
Dress is country club casual, but ladies are encouraged to indulge in shoes, such as this:
Maybe for Mardi Gras, MP, but it's Lent now.
Maybe for Mardi Gras, MP, but it's Lent now.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at March 01, 2026 09:03 AM (uQesX)
7
About 100 pages to go in Rick Atkinson's An Army at Dawn, history of WWII North Africa campaign
Posted by: Skip at March 01, 2026 09:03 AM (Ia/+0)
8
I will borrow books from the library then sadly return them unread
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at March 01, 2026 09:03 AM (vfth7)
9
Morning, MP4.
Howdy, Horde.
Does this sound familiar? Does it sound familiar?
Jeez, man, have you got surveillance equipment installed here in Casa Some Guy?
Howdy, Horde.
Does this sound familiar? Does it sound familiar?
Jeez, man, have you got surveillance equipment installed here in Casa Some Guy?
Posted by: Just Some Guy at March 01, 2026 09:03 AM (q3u5l)
10
Until OrangeEnt mentioned shoes I was wondering what in God's name was that ?
Posted by: Skip at March 01, 2026 09:04 AM (Ia/+0)
11
I paused listening to Leviathan Falls, last book of The Expanse, because it was getting too intense.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at March 01, 2026 09:04 AM (vfth7)
12
Linus could solve his problem by not eating. Besides, there's always the cereal box. I don't know of any reader who doesn't have a stack of books somewhere sitting unread and not like to ever be read either. Of course, we could do the socialist thing and have only one book.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at March 01, 2026 09:06 AM (uQesX)
13
Dan Simmons, author of the Hyperion Cantos, a classic series in the science fiction genre and of many excellent standalone novels, as well, died Saturday, 21 February, 2026, from complications of a stroke. He was 77.
RIP.
RIP.
Posted by: Sharkman at March 01, 2026 09:06 AM (/RHNq)
14
In book news, I overcame my stinginess to sign up for s year of audible at half price
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at March 01, 2026 09:06 AM (vfth7)
15
But get rid of them? No, because I might – might! – one day want to read one.
Does this sound familiar to you?
I would lay money down that at least 95% of us have this affliction.
Does this sound familiar to you?
I would lay money down that at least 95% of us have this affliction.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at March 01, 2026 09:06 AM (h7ZuX)
16
Eh, it’s just gonna end up in a pile with the rest of ‘em. So to speak.
Posted by: Common Tater at March 01, 2026 09:06 AM (EZwhZ)
17
That shoe is incredible
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at March 01, 2026 09:02 AM (vfth7)
And it's not even the one I wanted to feature. I had a Roger Vivier peacock-themed one in mind, but couldn't find a picture.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at March 01, 2026 09:02 AM (vfth7)
And it's not even the one I wanted to feature. I had a Roger Vivier peacock-themed one in mind, but couldn't find a picture.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026 09:07 AM (ufSfZ)
18
Until OrangeEnt mentioned shoes I was wondering what in God's name was that ?
Posted by: Skip at March 01, 2026 09:04 AM (Ia/+0)
It just looks like something worn by someone on a Krewe.
Posted by: Skip at March 01, 2026 09:04 AM (Ia/+0)
It just looks like something worn by someone on a Krewe.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at March 01, 2026 09:07 AM (uQesX)
19
MP4 it's very modest of you not to mention your own books in your thread
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at March 01, 2026 09:07 AM (vfth7)
20
I have a house full of books. Darned near literally. And I bet if I stacked them all up, my TBR pile would rival my height. But I find myself going for the convenience of reading on my laptop/tablet.
Posted by: RandomDave at March 01, 2026 09:08 AM (aJQbY)
21
I can always find a book in the unread pile to read, it just sometimes takes a while.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at March 01, 2026 09:08 AM (0U5gm)
22
I don't remember if I ever read Hyperion
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at March 01, 2026 09:08 AM (vfth7)
23
Morning, Book Folken! Good to see MP4 on post again.
This week I finished Graham Greene's The Human Factor, a 1978 spy story. It's not Bondian at all, and in fact Greene made a deliberate effort in his "entertainments" to avoid that sort of thing. He'd been in Intelligence and he knew what the Secret Service was really like. This one focuses on a middle-level security officer in London who has quietly been assisting the Russians with information about Africa, which he knows well. Not for money, not for ideology, but because the Russians are in a position to help his wife's family. His wife and her child are black. He's brought them to England, but her family remains in apartheid SA, and his concern is for their safety.
Greene's portrait of this man, his superiors and colleagues in London, their "trust no one" attitudes, and how he reacts to their murder of his assistant (they think he's a leak, when it's actually our protagonist), is fascinating stuff.
This week I finished Graham Greene's The Human Factor, a 1978 spy story. It's not Bondian at all, and in fact Greene made a deliberate effort in his "entertainments" to avoid that sort of thing. He'd been in Intelligence and he knew what the Secret Service was really like. This one focuses on a middle-level security officer in London who has quietly been assisting the Russians with information about Africa, which he knows well. Not for money, not for ideology, but because the Russians are in a position to help his wife's family. His wife and her child are black. He's brought them to England, but her family remains in apartheid SA, and his concern is for their safety.
Greene's portrait of this man, his superiors and colleagues in London, their "trust no one" attitudes, and how he reacts to their murder of his assistant (they think he's a leak, when it's actually our protagonist), is fascinating stuff.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 09:08 AM (wzUl9)
24
In book news, I overcame my stinginess to sign up for s year of audible at half price
I'm having trouble getting through William Mann's Black Dahlia, so I got the Audible version.
The narrator is terrible. It's back to the physical book for me.
I'm having trouble getting through William Mann's Black Dahlia, so I got the Audible version.
The narrator is terrible. It's back to the physical book for me.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026 09:09 AM (ufSfZ)
25
Good morning morons and thanks MP4
I haven't been book sick since I was a kid, which is probably why I turned to encyclopedias and atlases.
I haven't been book sick since I was a kid, which is probably why I turned to encyclopedias and atlases.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at March 01, 2026 09:09 AM (RIvkX)
26
I have many books that I have not yet read, but my purchases of books have slowed to a trickle. Those which I do buy are almost exclusively related either to the lapidary or metal smithing arts. My most recent purchase was a book about engraving metal, for example.
I have many books that I have not yet read, but my purchases of books have slowed to a trickle. Those which I do buy are almost exclusively related either to the lapidary or metal smithing arts. My most recent purchase was a book about engraving metal, for example.
Posted by: Krebs v Carnot: Epic Battle of the Cycling Stars (TM) at March 01, 2026 09:10 AM (xG4kz)
27
Good morning fellow Book Threadists. I hope everyone had a great week of reading.
Posted by: JTB at March 01, 2026 09:10 AM (yTvNw)
28
I frequently get "book sick." As of now, I just finished one, and I'm looking for something to tide me over until I can get the book waiting for me at the library.
That means it has to be short. A comic would be perfect. But which series? Right now I'm torn between 1970s Iron Man and early 1960s "Steve Canyon."
It's no fun to force yourself into a book; it has to beckon me.
That means it has to be short. A comic would be perfect. But which series? Right now I'm torn between 1970s Iron Man and early 1960s "Steve Canyon."
It's no fun to force yourself into a book; it has to beckon me.
Posted by: Weak Geek at March 01, 2026 09:10 AM (p/isN)
29
The condition can be compounded with Snack Sick, whereupon the patient has perused the available munchies in both the pantry and refrigerator and found nothing appealing.
Liberal application of DoorDash or UberEats will provide some relief, but at the expense of excessive revenue.
Liberal application of DoorDash or UberEats will provide some relief, but at the expense of excessive revenue.
Posted by: Quarter Twenty at March 01, 2026 09:10 AM (2Ez/1)
30
"America's Last Great Newspaper War" between New York City's tabloids staggers to a close. And the winnah is ...
Nobody.
Not the Daily News, the Post, not the owners, not the lenders -- and certainly not the employees, what few remain.
Mike Jaccarino's account of his years as a "runner" (field reporter) for the Daily News came out in 2020, long after his job vanished in 2011. (That was the year that the Tulsa World ended my employment on its copy desk! That blew past me when I first read it.) Both papers are suffering from plummeting circulation and skyrocketing debt. Both still publish, but they're two punch-drunk fighters bumbling around the ring. The crowd has gone to the Internet Tavern to argue.
I want to know what Jaccarino does now, but I can't find anything about him. One thing is sure: He's not running. He hit the wall of self-disgust a few years before his firing.
Nobody.
Not the Daily News, the Post, not the owners, not the lenders -- and certainly not the employees, what few remain.
Mike Jaccarino's account of his years as a "runner" (field reporter) for the Daily News came out in 2020, long after his job vanished in 2011. (That was the year that the Tulsa World ended my employment on its copy desk! That blew past me when I first read it.) Both papers are suffering from plummeting circulation and skyrocketing debt. Both still publish, but they're two punch-drunk fighters bumbling around the ring. The crowd has gone to the Internet Tavern to argue.
I want to know what Jaccarino does now, but I can't find anything about him. One thing is sure: He's not running. He hit the wall of self-disgust a few years before his firing.
Posted by: Weak Geek at March 01, 2026 09:11 AM (p/isN)
31
It sounds like a great read, Wolfus. *scribbles note that will get lost*
Time to get to church! See y'all later
Time to get to church! See y'all later
Posted by: RandomDave at March 01, 2026 09:11 AM (aJQbY)
32
Morning, Book Folken! Good to see MP4 on post again.
This week I finished Graham Greene's The Human Factor, a 1978 spy story.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 09:08 AM (wzUl9)
---
I am reading this is as well.
This week I finished Graham Greene's The Human Factor, a 1978 spy story.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 09:08 AM (wzUl9)
---
I am reading this is as well.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026 09:11 AM (ZOv7s)
33
I have lots of paperbacks and some hardcovers on my shelves. I reread a lot of them during the Sniffle Scare and even bought some new ones, since libraries were either shut or cowering behind the face diaper hoax. So now, I have little inclination to reread any of them again soon. That may change in certain cases -- I reread the SF novelette by Gordon Dickson called "On Messenger Mountain" the other day.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 09:11 AM (wzUl9)
34
Saw that notice on Dan Simmons, whose books I haven't read in far too long. One of the good ones.
And the first page of his first novel, Song of Kali, is a real chiller of an opening.
Somehow never got around to the Hyperion Cantos (my long-standing aversion to big series stuff), but will try to remedy that some time this year.
And the first page of his first novel, Song of Kali, is a real chiller of an opening.
Somehow never got around to the Hyperion Cantos (my long-standing aversion to big series stuff), but will try to remedy that some time this year.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at March 01, 2026 09:11 AM (q3u5l)
35
Yay Book Thread!
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026 09:11 AM (ZOv7s)
36
I guess I’m partially booksick. I have well over 200 books on my TBR, but not enough free time to read them. Also, if you add in the Kindle, I admit I have somewhat of a problem. However, that does not stop me from buying more books.
My wife is losing her mind over my sickness. As we are looking to move to a red state I have already told her that all the books are coming. It made for some nice conversation.
My wife is losing her mind over my sickness. As we are looking to move to a red state I have already told her that all the books are coming. It made for some nice conversation.
Posted by: Uncle Slayton at March 01, 2026 09:11 AM (/FjOd)
37
The narrator is terrible. It's back to the physical book for me.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing
--
Narrators make or break an audiobook, so I always preview before buying / borrowing.
I like listening while doing the repetitive tasks at work, which is most of my work.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing
--
Narrators make or break an audiobook, so I always preview before buying / borrowing.
I like listening while doing the repetitive tasks at work, which is most of my work.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at March 01, 2026 09:12 AM (vfth7)
38
I’d always been vaguely aware that Admiral Kimmel, and General Short, had been made scapegoats after the Pearl Harbor attack in 1941 but I wasn’t aware of the details. Percy Greaves wrote a book about this called “The seeds and fruits of infamy”.
It’s very interesting and shows how things don’t change too much.
It’s very interesting and shows how things don’t change too much.
Posted by: Common Tater at March 01, 2026 09:12 AM (EZwhZ)
39
High heels cannot be comfortable to wear
Posted by: Skip at March 01, 2026 09:12 AM (Ia/+0)
40
Does this sound familiar to you?
Yes, it does. I had 'The Guns of August' in my bookcase for over 10 years and I finally read it last year.
There are other books like that as well.
Thanks, MP4
Yes, it does. I had 'The Guns of August' in my bookcase for over 10 years and I finally read it last year.
There are other books like that as well.
Thanks, MP4
Posted by: dantesed at March 01, 2026 09:12 AM (Oy/m2)
41
>>> In my case, it’s the frequent annoyance that I want to read something, and yet I am sick of every book in my library and don’t want to touch any of them. An added irritation is the presence of books on my shelves that I have had for years and never touched
You sound like one of those War And Peace or Finnegans Wake people. Just give it up.
You sound like one of those War And Peace or Finnegans Wake people. Just give it up.
Posted by: Rev. Wishbone at March 01, 2026 09:12 AM (gVUi7)
42
At the library yesterday I picked up a tome focusing on the Alfred Hitchcock Presents TV series from 1955-1965. The behind-the scenes stuff is very intriguing, but it's less than a third of the book. The rest is given over to summaries of the 300-plus episodes, many of which I've seen and many more I have not. Occasionally the authors insert a note after an episode summary. Those I skimmed through last night.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 09:13 AM (wzUl9)
43
One of the most extraordinary archeological finds of the twenty first century has been the recovery of the remains of Richard III from under a parking lot. Phillipa Langley and Michael Jones recount their amazing discovery in The King's Grave.
Richard III was the last Plantagenet king of England, who was killed in the battle of Bosworth in 1485, and this allowed the Tudors to take the throne. His body was stripped and carried through Leicester, and then thought to be lost. Some history buffs held the belief that his body may have been buried within a nearby church.
A team of historians transposed an archaic map of Leicester onto a modern one to indicate a possible grave site under a car park, and received permission to dig. At the first trench they dug, they found a skeleton with scoliosis, which was later proven to be a DNA match to modern family descendants, proving that it was indeed Richard. This book details the research, discovery, and proof that Richard III had been found. Richard was later buried with honor in Leicester cathedral.
Richard III was the last Plantagenet king of England, who was killed in the battle of Bosworth in 1485, and this allowed the Tudors to take the throne. His body was stripped and carried through Leicester, and then thought to be lost. Some history buffs held the belief that his body may have been buried within a nearby church.
A team of historians transposed an archaic map of Leicester onto a modern one to indicate a possible grave site under a car park, and received permission to dig. At the first trench they dug, they found a skeleton with scoliosis, which was later proven to be a DNA match to modern family descendants, proving that it was indeed Richard. This book details the research, discovery, and proof that Richard III had been found. Richard was later buried with honor in Leicester cathedral.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at March 01, 2026 09:14 AM (0U5gm)
44
"Both papers are suffering from plummeting circulation and skyrocketing debt."
###
Now do cable news.
###
Now do cable news.
Posted by: Quarter Twenty at March 01, 2026 09:14 AM (2Ez/1)
45
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 09:08 AM (wzUl9)
Wolfus, did you see that post on ALH about Fantasy publishing? There's a contest with it. Maybe submit one of your stories?
Wolfus, did you see that post on ALH about Fantasy publishing? There's a contest with it. Maybe submit one of your stories?
Posted by: OrangeEnt at March 01, 2026 09:14 AM (uQesX)
46
Also yesterday, I picked up an annotated volume containing the first two Sherlock Holmes short story collections. The authors explain various terms and conditions that were current in Doyle's time but which may not be immediately familiar to modern readers. This should be interesting.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 09:15 AM (wzUl9)
47
I'm in the middle of "How to Test Negative for Stupid" by my favorite senator John Kennedy.
It is full of folksy aphorisms and insults that I plan to steal.
It is full of folksy aphorisms and insults that I plan to steal.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at March 01, 2026 09:15 AM (RIvkX)
48
Speaking of audiobooks, aside from Libby (which is what most libraries use), and Audible, I recently learned about 2 more audiobook vendors:
Chirp chirpbooks.com - no membership
libro.fm - membership but claims to partner with local booksellers
Chirp chirpbooks.com - no membership
libro.fm - membership but claims to partner with local booksellers
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at March 01, 2026 09:15 AM (vfth7)
49
I like to use Lent as a way to try out behavioral changes, either cut out bad habits or introduce good ones. I figure, if you can keep it up through Lent, maybe start doing it all the time.
So this year, I've decided to eliminate watching videos on weeknights. Just weekends. This forces me to read books or write or do chores. I have a group of war/culture/China channels that I watch, and it's a real time-waster. Best done on weekends.
As a result, I finally finished The War for Middle Earth, which is quite good. I made deep inroads into Ovid's Metamorphoses, and now am cruising through The Human Factor. It was awkward at first, but I'm getting back in the groove.
So this year, I've decided to eliminate watching videos on weeknights. Just weekends. This forces me to read books or write or do chores. I have a group of war/culture/China channels that I watch, and it's a real time-waster. Best done on weekends.
As a result, I finally finished The War for Middle Earth, which is quite good. I made deep inroads into Ovid's Metamorphoses, and now am cruising through The Human Factor. It was awkward at first, but I'm getting back in the groove.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026 09:15 AM (ZOv7s)
50
Wolfus, did you see that post on ALH about Fantasy publishing? There's a contest with it. Maybe submit one of your stories?
Posted by: OrangeEnt at March 01, 2026
***
Hadn't looked yet, OE. I'll look shortly!
Posted by: OrangeEnt at March 01, 2026
***
Hadn't looked yet, OE. I'll look shortly!
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 09:15 AM (wzUl9)
51
I started Hyperion a while back, after I picked it up from the little free library box. It didn't grab me. But I keep it, because there might--might!--be a time when it will grab my attention.
I did very much enjoy his Summer of Night.
I did very much enjoy his Summer of Night.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at March 01, 2026 09:16 AM (h7ZuX)
52
I think I've read at least 95% of what I have. I do see The Turn of the Screw on the shelves, which has been there for at least 20 years and I have no intention of reading. Something about Henry James pissed me off years ago and I have no recollection of what it was.
Posted by: Biff Pocoroba at March 01, 2026 09:16 AM (XvL8K)
53
MP4 it's very modest of you not to mention your own books in your thread
Well, I figure that we've all been here long enough that if you wanted to buy one, you have. I'll be promoting the new one whenever I get it out.
But also, we have so many good authors among the Horde that I don't particularly feel right puffing myself among the writers here who've put out big, scholarly stuff or multiple-part sagas or even just multiple books. I've only ever written two full-length novels about an obscure silent actress, one novella about same and one research book only of interest to true-crime obsessives. I don't really consider myself an author, merely a dilettante.
Still, if we must:
The Director's Cut: A Theda Bara Mystery
https://tinyurl.com/4jdkaj5w
The Stuff That Dreams Are Made Of: A Theda Bara Mystery
https://tinyurl.com/3dxw3k3h
Thirteen Moons: A Supernatural Story Starring Theda Bara
https://tinyurl.com/ub3zzkcp
Well, I figure that we've all been here long enough that if you wanted to buy one, you have. I'll be promoting the new one whenever I get it out.
But also, we have so many good authors among the Horde that I don't particularly feel right puffing myself among the writers here who've put out big, scholarly stuff or multiple-part sagas or even just multiple books. I've only ever written two full-length novels about an obscure silent actress, one novella about same and one research book only of interest to true-crime obsessives. I don't really consider myself an author, merely a dilettante.
Still, if we must:
The Director's Cut: A Theda Bara Mystery
https://tinyurl.com/4jdkaj5w
The Stuff That Dreams Are Made Of: A Theda Bara Mystery
https://tinyurl.com/3dxw3k3h
Thirteen Moons: A Supernatural Story Starring Theda Bara
https://tinyurl.com/ub3zzkcp
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026 09:17 AM (ufSfZ)
54
good morning MP4, Horde
Posted by: callsign claymore at March 01, 2026 09:18 AM (Br6my)
55
I've been waiting to share this. Someone last Monday recommended Senator Kennedy's book. I ordered it Monday morning at 11 o'clock and it arrived Tuesday afternoon at 2!
One day!
And I live in a small town in Montana.
Mirabile dictu!
One day!
And I live in a small town in Montana.
Mirabile dictu!
Posted by: Wenda at March 01, 2026 09:18 AM (JUZZb)
56
I'm afraid to count the number of titles in the Amazing Colossal To-Be-Read Pile. It would depress me too much. Then, just to depress myself further, I'd count the number of books I know I should revisit because these days I tend to remember that I read and enjoyed a book but recall almost nothing of its content.
Being depressed simply due to thinking of those numbers, I shake off that depression by opening up the Kindle store and buying just a couple more books which I just know I'll get around to reading Any Day Now.
Problem? I don't have a problem. I can quit any time I want.
Being depressed simply due to thinking of those numbers, I shake off that depression by opening up the Kindle store and buying just a couple more books which I just know I'll get around to reading Any Day Now.
Problem? I don't have a problem. I can quit any time I want.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at March 01, 2026 09:19 AM (q3u5l)
57
Does this sound familiar to you?
-----
I have books that my dad had on HIS shelves that HE never got around to reading! It's in the blood!
-----
I have books that my dad had on HIS shelves that HE never got around to reading! It's in the blood!
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes. at March 01, 2026 09:19 AM (kpS4V)
58
Richard III was the last Plantagenet king of England, who was killed in the battle of Bosworth in 1485, and this allowed the Tudors to take the throne. His body was stripped and carried through Leicester, and then thought to be lost. Some history buffs held the belief that his body may have been buried within a nearby church. . . .
Posted by: Thomas Paine at March 01, 2026
***
Plantagenets? Never heard of 'em.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at March 01, 2026
***
Plantagenets? Never heard of 'em.
Posted by: Henry Tudor at March 01, 2026 09:19 AM (wzUl9)
59
So then, book sick, I go out and buy yet more books that I’ll either never read or will go through a chapter or two and put aside. But get rid of them? No, because I might – might! – one day want to read one.
Does this sound familiar to you?"
Hi MP4,
OMG, Yes! It's the 'might' part that really applies. I have to say, as I get older that is less frequent if only because I realize I don't have another 50 years to catch up. That approach makes thinning out the herd a little easier.
Does this sound familiar to you?"
Hi MP4,
OMG, Yes! It's the 'might' part that really applies. I have to say, as I get older that is less frequent if only because I realize I don't have another 50 years to catch up. That approach makes thinning out the herd a little easier.
Posted by: JTB at March 01, 2026 09:19 AM (yTvNw)
60
At the library yesterday I picked up a tome focusing on the Alfred Hitchcock Presents TV series from 1955-1965.
====
We are in the middle of watching these in order. The half-hour versions move along a lot better than the hour-long.
====
We are in the middle of watching these in order. The half-hour versions move along a lot better than the hour-long.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at March 01, 2026 09:19 AM (RIvkX)
61
49 I like to use Lent as a way to try out behavioral changes, either cut out bad habits or introduce good ones. I figure, if you can keep it up through Lent, maybe start doing it all the time.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026 09:15 AM
-----
"Atomic Habits" by James Clear.
https://a.co/d/0jbIraDq
49 I like to use Lent as a way to try out behavioral changes, either cut out bad habits or introduce good ones. I figure, if you can keep it up through Lent, maybe start doing it all the time.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026 09:15 AM
-----
"Atomic Habits" by James Clear.
https://a.co/d/0jbIraDq
Posted by: Quarter Twenty at March 01, 2026 09:21 AM (2Ez/1)
62
Posted by: Weak Geek at March 01, 2026 09:11 AM (p/isN)
I keep meaning to mention the 1954 memoir Sauce For The Gander by Frank Martin for you. It's a telling of his time as a reporter on the New York Graphic, probably the most sensational tabloid in 1920s NYC.
https://tinyurl.com/bdt8u4pn
I keep meaning to mention the 1954 memoir Sauce For The Gander by Frank Martin for you. It's a telling of his time as a reporter on the New York Graphic, probably the most sensational tabloid in 1920s NYC.
https://tinyurl.com/bdt8u4pn
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026 09:21 AM (ufSfZ)
63
I’ve been book sick recently. Decided to do a reread of a series. More details forthcoming next week. Right now I’m reading a book featuring ancient evil vs Nazis vs different Nazis vs Jews vs mysterious stranger.
Posted by: Perfessor Sqiurrel at March 01, 2026 09:21 AM (WM+gW)
64
Hello Thomas Paine. I also read that book about Richard lll. It was quite interesting and well written. There is also a movie about the book on one of the streaming services which I can’t recall right now. It was ok but did not do justice to the book.
Posted by: Uncle Slayton at March 01, 2026 09:22 AM (q/CMv)
65
Thanks MP4! I am afraid I am also afflicted. But that’s okay, the books can serve as emergency…something, I’m sure.
Posted by: NCDave at March 01, 2026 09:23 AM (mAiNO)
66
Does it sound familiar? Yes it does. Read all the things I wanted, but now I want, oh, a cozy. Or a dark and gritty noir. Or a Howard's Conan knockoff. Something to stir the blood and ignite the passions!
And there are the books, oh the books I have not read! But so so many of them are utter dreck. Worse than useless. Utter failures at actual entertainment, let alone delight and enlightenment. AI slop. Poor execution. Festering foetid puddles of pungeant pustulant dross.
Sometimes, only sometimes mind, it's enough to drive a reader to write.
And there are the books, oh the books I have not read! But so so many of them are utter dreck. Worse than useless. Utter failures at actual entertainment, let alone delight and enlightenment. AI slop. Poor execution. Festering foetid puddles of pungeant pustulant dross.
Sometimes, only sometimes mind, it's enough to drive a reader to write.
Posted by: unwenchable at March 01, 2026 09:23 AM (hWImb)
67
I'm reading Theo of Golden, a lovely book. Emotionally resonant.
https://www.allenlevi.com/the-book
https://www.allenlevi.com/the-book
Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at March 01, 2026 09:24 AM (w6EFb)
68
For those of you with Audible, Gary Sinse reads Steinbeck's Travels with Charley. It's entertaining
Posted by: Notsothoreau at March 01, 2026 09:24 AM (gQ15S)
69
Is that shoe AI? It kinda looks AI. NTTAWWT.
Posted by: NCDave at March 01, 2026 09:24 AM (mAiNO)
70
I mentioned last week that I was reading James Garner's memoir, The Garner Files. It's a great deal of fun. There is an appendix listing each movie and TV show he was in, many with a comment or anecdote from Garner himself. He says, for instance, that Mister Buddwing (1966) was the most confusing film he ever did, and that as of 2011, the time of his memoir, he still did not know what it had been about. "What were they thinking?"
At the end, too, there are also some comments about JG himself from actors and producers he's worked successfully with. Gretchen Corbett, who worked with him on Rockford Files, says he was her acting mentor.
At the end, too, there are also some comments about JG himself from actors and producers he's worked successfully with. Gretchen Corbett, who worked with him on Rockford Files, says he was her acting mentor.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 09:25 AM (wzUl9)
71
The Tudors were some of the earliest practitioners of large scale propaganda. They even recruited Shakespeare to aid in their justification for taking the throne.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at March 01, 2026 09:25 AM (0U5gm)
72
Dont be depressed or anxious by a tottering TBR pile. Celebrate the fact that Average Joes and Janes like us have personal libraries with scads of books to entertain and enlighten!
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes. at March 01, 2026 09:25 AM (kpS4V)
73
Hadn't looked yet, OE. I'll look shortly!
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 09:15 AM (wzUl9)
Oh, by the way.... If you might consider staying in LA, how about Minden? Saw it on a program.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 09:15 AM (wzUl9)
Oh, by the way.... If you might consider staying in LA, how about Minden? Saw it on a program.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at March 01, 2026 09:25 AM (uQesX)
74
Are you a map freak?
YouTube - The fascinating history of maps in fantasy:
https://tinyurl.com/yef6vhf4
YouTube - The fascinating history of maps in fantasy:
https://tinyurl.com/yef6vhf4
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes. at March 01, 2026 09:26 AM (kpS4V)
75
High heels cannot be comfortable to wear
Not being a lady (although sometimes I wish I were), I'm sure they are. It's like Lana Turner's comment when she was made to wear a Merry Widow in one of her movies: "A man had to have designed this - no woman would be so cruel to another."
And I understand that if you wear high heels for a series of years, your tendons shorten so that you can never wear flats again.
Yet they are so beautiful to look at, either on their own or fulfilling their purpose.
Not being a lady (although sometimes I wish I were), I'm sure they are. It's like Lana Turner's comment when she was made to wear a Merry Widow in one of her movies: "A man had to have designed this - no woman would be so cruel to another."
And I understand that if you wear high heels for a series of years, your tendons shorten so that you can never wear flats again.
Yet they are so beautiful to look at, either on their own or fulfilling their purpose.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026 09:27 AM (ufSfZ)
76
We're furiously re-reading The Art Of The Deal by Donald John Trump.
Posted by: World Leaders Book Club at March 01, 2026 09:27 AM (2Ez/1)
77
And another Audible recommendation, Northeaster by Cathie Pelletier. It's about the blizzard of 1952 that hit New England
Posted by: Notsothoreau at March 01, 2026 09:28 AM (gQ15S)
78
Book sick? Eh, I not really. I've usually got a couple of options of books currently being read, so I just pick one of those and go for it. Worst case scenario: I'm just not feeling it, and I switch books after a chapter/issue or two.
Now, there are times when I get sick of mediocrity or blandness or disappointment and decide I need something awesome and have a hard time picking that out, but that mood is a bit different...
Now, there are times when I get sick of mediocrity or blandness or disappointment and decide I need something awesome and have a hard time picking that out, but that mood is a bit different...
Posted by: Castle Guy at March 01, 2026 09:29 AM (Lhaco)
79
At the library yesterday I picked up a tome focusing on the Alfred Hitchcock Presents TV series from 1955-1965.
====
We are in the middle of watching these in order. The half-hour versions move along a lot better than the hour-long.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at March 01, 2026
***
Part of that, the authors say, was the insistence by Hitch and his producer Joan Harrison to focus on using already published material -- short stories, often ones straight from the AH mystery magazine. Sometimes the author himself would adapt the story, as Henry Slesar did. Or Slesar, Robert Bloch, and others would adapt them. Richard Matheson did one, though that might have been during the hour-long era.
====
We are in the middle of watching these in order. The half-hour versions move along a lot better than the hour-long.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at March 01, 2026
***
Part of that, the authors say, was the insistence by Hitch and his producer Joan Harrison to focus on using already published material -- short stories, often ones straight from the AH mystery magazine. Sometimes the author himself would adapt the story, as Henry Slesar did. Or Slesar, Robert Bloch, and others would adapt them. Richard Matheson did one, though that might have been during the hour-long era.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 09:29 AM (wzUl9)
80
Film aficionados will enjoy "The Last Kings of Hollywood: Coppola•Lucas•Spielberg and the Battle for the Soul of American Cinema" by Paul Fischer. It's a very readable look into the time when studios were going through a rough patch and young film students chafed at the thought of working for corporate Hollywood.
It's really interesting to read about how the paths of gregarious family man Coppola, quietly intense Lucas, and awkward film dork Spielberg intersected.
My favorite bit: Interviewing Coppola at his newly established Zoetrope Studio, a reporter thought Francis looked "rumpled as if there were 30 dwarves playing handball inside his clothes." 😆
It's really interesting to read about how the paths of gregarious family man Coppola, quietly intense Lucas, and awkward film dork Spielberg intersected.
My favorite bit: Interviewing Coppola at his newly established Zoetrope Studio, a reporter thought Francis looked "rumpled as if there were 30 dwarves playing handball inside his clothes." 😆
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes. at March 01, 2026 09:29 AM (kpS4V)
81
@57 --
You, too?
When I was young, Dad bought a passel of "classic" books. They stayed in a bookcase for decades. They were packed tightly enough that I could push up one or two to make a garage for my Matchbox cars.
Dad's been gone for two years, and my sister, who lives in the area, and I are still clearing out the house. What to do with these books? I don't know whether the secondhand bookstore will take them. They might fall apart. And I have so many of my own that I'm not going to guilt myself into reading them. Yet tossing out books seems like sacrilege. I'm torn.
You, too?
When I was young, Dad bought a passel of "classic" books. They stayed in a bookcase for decades. They were packed tightly enough that I could push up one or two to make a garage for my Matchbox cars.
Dad's been gone for two years, and my sister, who lives in the area, and I are still clearing out the house. What to do with these books? I don't know whether the secondhand bookstore will take them. They might fall apart. And I have so many of my own that I'm not going to guilt myself into reading them. Yet tossing out books seems like sacrilege. I'm torn.
Posted by: Weak Geek at March 01, 2026 09:29 AM (p/isN)
82
I also note the passing of Dan Simmons and recommend the full Hyperion Cantos to all.
Posted by: Captain Ned at March 01, 2026 09:29 AM (nADdg)
83
68 For those of you with Audible, Gary Sinse reads Steinbeck's Travels with Charley. It's entertaining
Posted by: Notsothoreau at March 01, 2026 09:24 AM
+++++
Listened to it a couple of years ago. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
Posted by: Notsothoreau at March 01, 2026 09:24 AM
+++++
Listened to it a couple of years ago. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
Posted by: Quarter Twenty at March 01, 2026 09:30 AM (2Ez/1)
84
39 High heels cannot be comfortable to wear
Posted by: Skip at March 01, 2026 09:12 AM (Ia/+0)
This is correct.
Posted by: Skip at March 01, 2026 09:12 AM (Ia/+0)
This is correct.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at March 01, 2026 09:30 AM (h7ZuX)
85
As I replenish faith after years as an agnostic I find certain books tied to holy times especially enjoyable and meaningful. I have several that are for Christmas and Advent. A new book, "Wardrobes and Rings" written by Malcolm Guite and others uses passages from the Inklings, mostly Tolkien and Lewis, that have meaning for Lent. The daily chapters are short but give meaning to the day. It's sort of like a literary Advent calendar. It is not so much about sacrifice or depriving oneself, more about recognizing what is important to life.
I got it mostly because of the Tolkien/Lewis aspect but it's turning out to be a good spur to introspection.
I got it mostly because of the Tolkien/Lewis aspect but it's turning out to be a good spur to introspection.
Posted by: JTB at March 01, 2026 09:30 AM (yTvNw)
86
High heels cannot be comfortable to wear
Posted by: Skip at March 01, 2026
***
The ex-Mrs. Wolfus No. 2 swore that they were actually *more* comfortable for her to wear. I presume she did not mean all day, though. And she "swore" a lot of things that turned out not to be true.
Posted by: Skip at March 01, 2026
***
The ex-Mrs. Wolfus No. 2 swore that they were actually *more* comfortable for her to wear. I presume she did not mean all day, though. And she "swore" a lot of things that turned out not to be true.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 09:31 AM (wzUl9)
87
I intend to purge my books this year it's not so much books I haven't read, as it is books I won't be rereading. I haven't read several biographies to read, but I did get an Audible copy of some. If I can listen to them, I might be able to get rid of the physical books.
Posted by: Notsothoreau at March 01, 2026 09:32 AM (gQ15S)
88
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026 09:17 AM (ufSfZ)
Bah! You've published multiple books, MP. You're an author. Unpublished people like me are mere writers. Sometimes you have to find the right place and the right time to get higher sales. You never know. Have you looked at the site JSG posted last week:
https://www.bearmanormedia.com/
If you do a non-fiction book about Theda or Old Hollywood, you might find an outlet there. I'd also suggest the site for TJM, Moviegique, and Lex, but they don't frequent the book thread.
Bah! You've published multiple books, MP. You're an author. Unpublished people like me are mere writers. Sometimes you have to find the right place and the right time to get higher sales. You never know. Have you looked at the site JSG posted last week:
https://www.bearmanormedia.com/
If you do a non-fiction book about Theda or Old Hollywood, you might find an outlet there. I'd also suggest the site for TJM, Moviegique, and Lex, but they don't frequent the book thread.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at March 01, 2026 09:34 AM (uQesX)
89
I have a book tracker app on my phone as well as the Kindle app. This way when I go to the bookstore or I want to add to my Kindle, I open up both so I don’t buy a book I already have.
Posted by: Uncle Slayton at March 01, 2026 09:34 AM (CDdUX)
90
High heels are beautiful instruments of torture
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at March 01, 2026 09:34 AM (vfth7)
91
So then, book sick, I go out and buy yet more books that I’ll either never read or will go through a chapter or two and put aside. But get rid of them? No, because I might – might! – one day want to read one.
Does this sound familiar to you?
---
Chateau Lloyd does not have the space for such luxuries. Books are subject to strict retention standards. I must both have read and enjoyed a book to keep it. If I haven't read it, it gets priority. If I avoid reading it, I get rid of it.
I did have something like Linus' experience last week, but it was inadvertent. I had planned on reading City of God over Lent, got it off the shelf and realized that the used edition I have had been "abridged for modern readers." The Horror! It fell out of my nerveless hands and landed with a thud on the floor. I picked it up and contemptuously set it on the outgoing stack. With nothing immediately available, I went to the Graham Greene section, and that's how I picked up The Human Factor.
Does this sound familiar to you?
---
Chateau Lloyd does not have the space for such luxuries. Books are subject to strict retention standards. I must both have read and enjoyed a book to keep it. If I haven't read it, it gets priority. If I avoid reading it, I get rid of it.
I did have something like Linus' experience last week, but it was inadvertent. I had planned on reading City of God over Lent, got it off the shelf and realized that the used edition I have had been "abridged for modern readers." The Horror! It fell out of my nerveless hands and landed with a thud on the floor. I picked it up and contemptuously set it on the outgoing stack. With nothing immediately available, I went to the Graham Greene section, and that's how I picked up The Human Factor.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026 09:36 AM (ZOv7s)
92
One day!
And I live in a small town in Montana.
Mirabile dictu!
Posted by: Wenda at March 01, 2026 09:18 AM (JUZZb)
(glares)
The last order I made on Amazon took four days to get to me, and I could tell by the shipping info it was already in town!!!
At least they gave me a gift card for being so late.
And I live in a small town in Montana.
Mirabile dictu!
Posted by: Wenda at March 01, 2026 09:18 AM (JUZZb)
(glares)
The last order I made on Amazon took four days to get to me, and I could tell by the shipping info it was already in town!!!
At least they gave me a gift card for being so late.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at March 01, 2026 09:36 AM (uQesX)
93
I know the feeling, sort of, like Thomas Paine, there’s always something on the TBR pile that serves the purpose. I finished the Last Kingdom and started RL Stevenson’sThe Black Arrow. The Last Kingdom was excellent and after a slow start due to archaic dialogue I’m neglecting my o ther books to see how this one comes out. Apparently RLS didn’t like it very much but I think it’s a great adventure story.
Posted by: Who Knew at March 01, 2026 09:36 AM (0QMbS)
94
@89 Uncle Slayton: What book tracker app would that be? Sounds useful.
Posted by: NCDave at March 01, 2026 09:36 AM (mAiNO)
95
For many years, I had no unread books in my collection. I was chronically broke, so buying a book was such a treat that I read it immediately.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026 09:37 AM (ZOv7s)
96
Just dropping in:
Already have three titles on the Book Thread memo pad- thanks, Horde!
I have many books that I got during the Biden interim/Covid times that I thought would be good for re-building Western Civ in case of a collapse. I'm thinking about letting them go back to the thrift store, but that may be premature.
When we weed the books, we each make a stack of books we want to get rid of, and the other has veto power over your stack.
Audios: listened to "To Kill A Mockingbird" on CD, narrated by Sissy Spacek. It was excellent- a perfect narrator choice.
Currently reading "La Morte De Arthur", one of the four books you must read to understand the Medieval Age.
The combat scenes are ridiculously repetitious- how Malory would have loved Cut and Paste.
Already have three titles on the Book Thread memo pad- thanks, Horde!
I have many books that I got during the Biden interim/Covid times that I thought would be good for re-building Western Civ in case of a collapse. I'm thinking about letting them go back to the thrift store, but that may be premature.
When we weed the books, we each make a stack of books we want to get rid of, and the other has veto power over your stack.
Audios: listened to "To Kill A Mockingbird" on CD, narrated by Sissy Spacek. It was excellent- a perfect narrator choice.
Currently reading "La Morte De Arthur", one of the four books you must read to understand the Medieval Age.
The combat scenes are ridiculously repetitious- how Malory would have loved Cut and Paste.
Posted by: sal at March 01, 2026 09:38 AM (f+FmA)
97
Also on my TBR pile is a slim volume, The Black Death and the Transformation of the West by David Herlihy. Looks to be about what its title implies, how the plague changed social and economic conditions in Europe.
The fact it's short was an inducement for me to check it out. Mary Beard's Emperor of Rome looked fascinating, a mix of history and personal anecdotes about the men who ran the Empire, but I wasn't sure if I'd have time to finish it. I could just skim and read about the emperors that really interest me, though.
The fact it's short was an inducement for me to check it out. Mary Beard's Emperor of Rome looked fascinating, a mix of history and personal anecdotes about the men who ran the Empire, but I wasn't sure if I'd have time to finish it. I could just skim and read about the emperors that really interest me, though.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 09:38 AM (wzUl9)
98
"About 100 pages to go in Rick Atkinson's An Army at Dawn, history of WWII North Africa campaign"
‐------
That trilogy is gold. You're in for a treat. It changed how I looked at WW2.
‐------
That trilogy is gold. You're in for a treat. It changed how I looked at WW2.
Posted by: Taro Tsujimoto at March 01, 2026 09:39 AM (5YmYl)
99
Couple of essays that may appeal to the book sick among us:
Bookshop Memories, by George Orwell
Books Won't Furnish a Room, by Joseph Epstein
And for those of us who write, regularly or not --
Ever find yourself putting pen to paper or fingers to keyboard and then wondering just what you're doing because the last thing the planet needs is yet another book?
Are there progressive stages to book sick?
Bookshop Memories, by George Orwell
Books Won't Furnish a Room, by Joseph Epstein
And for those of us who write, regularly or not --
Ever find yourself putting pen to paper or fingers to keyboard and then wondering just what you're doing because the last thing the planet needs is yet another book?
Are there progressive stages to book sick?
Posted by: Just Some Guy at March 01, 2026 09:39 AM (q3u5l)
100
We're furiously re-reading The Art Of The Deal by Donald John Trump.
Posted by: World Leaders Book Club at March 01, 2026 09:27 AM (2Ez/1)
I wish I had.
Posted by: World Leaders Book Club at March 01, 2026 09:27 AM (2Ez/1)
I wish I had.
Posted by: Khamenei's severed head at March 01, 2026 09:39 AM (uQesX)
101
67 ... "I'm reading Theo of Golden, a lovely book. Emotionally resonant."
Miley,
Glad you found it. I got a hardcover edition from Rabbit Room Press before it was available at Amazon or B and N. It is one of my favorite novels. Levi has a wonderful way of bringing out emotions in the reader. He also tied together all the various parts at the end in a very satisfying way.
BTW, he is reportedly working on a follow-on: Ellen of Golden. When it's released, I'll be first in line for a copy.
Miley,
Glad you found it. I got a hardcover edition from Rabbit Room Press before it was available at Amazon or B and N. It is one of my favorite novels. Levi has a wonderful way of bringing out emotions in the reader. He also tied together all the various parts at the end in a very satisfying way.
BTW, he is reportedly working on a follow-on: Ellen of Golden. When it's released, I'll be first in line for a copy.
Posted by: JTB at March 01, 2026 09:40 AM (yTvNw)
102
I finished off reading the complete run of Marvel's "The Further Adventures of Indiana Jones" comic books. They started off good (not great, but pretty enjoyable) but, as I was warned, the quality of the comic deteriorated significantly in its final year. It just...stopped feeling like Indiana Jones; just generic adventure guy. The action scenes felt less based in reality, and the stories didn't feel tied to real history or folklore. I'm sad to say; I skipped over several pages of the final issue because I just didn't care...
I have a trade paperback of some later Darkhorse IJ comics. I remember not being impressed with them, but I'm going to re-read that book to see how it compares to the Marvel run.
I also read Marvel's adaptations of the three Indiana Jones movies. (Because there are only three. The 'fourth' was a parody that got mistaken for the real thing, and I think AI has hallucinated the existence of 'fifth') I heard the movie-comics were adapted from an early version of the screenplay, which fits; some scenes are expanded upon, but other (very iconic) scenes are missing entirely. As an example; the sword wielding Arab that Indy casually shoots, completely absent.
I have a trade paperback of some later Darkhorse IJ comics. I remember not being impressed with them, but I'm going to re-read that book to see how it compares to the Marvel run.
I also read Marvel's adaptations of the three Indiana Jones movies. (Because there are only three. The 'fourth' was a parody that got mistaken for the real thing, and I think AI has hallucinated the existence of 'fifth') I heard the movie-comics were adapted from an early version of the screenplay, which fits; some scenes are expanded upon, but other (very iconic) scenes are missing entirely. As an example; the sword wielding Arab that Indy casually shoots, completely absent.
Posted by: Castle Guy at March 01, 2026 09:40 AM (Lhaco)
103
The book tracker app I use is called “Book Tracker “. You can scan the bar code on a book and it inputs all the info about the book. If the book is too old for a bar code, you can enter the information manually. I love it.
Posted by: Uncle Slayton at March 01, 2026 09:41 AM (/FjOd)
104
We are in the middle of watching these in order. The half-hour versions move along a lot better than the hour-long.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at March 01, 2026 09:19 AM (RIvkX)
Do you find it interesting that so many episodes are about spouses offing each other? Not the usual trope of 50's marital bliss.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at March 01, 2026 09:19 AM (RIvkX)
Do you find it interesting that so many episodes are about spouses offing each other? Not the usual trope of 50's marital bliss.
Posted by: sal at March 01, 2026 09:41 AM (f+FmA)
105
Also from the library, Grimm's Grimmest, a retelling of the old Grimm's fairy tales with the really disturbing stuff put back in. E.g., Rapunzel's suitor is blinded when thorns pierce his eyes, Snow White's stepmother dances to death in red-hot shoes, etc. And there are other nightmares, I'm sure.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 09:41 AM (wzUl9)
106
So, what have I read this week? Nothing much; I've been futzing around with short true-crime collections on kindle and am trying to make my way through the new Black Dahlia book.
I don't know why I find Black Dahlia so hard to get through. The same author's book about the 1922 murder of director William Desmond Taylor was a page-turner, but this isn't. And it's not a period thing, either - the Dahlia case has always fascinated me, but there's just something about his narrative style here that leaves me cold.
I am reading, slowly, James Shapiro's A Year in the Life of William Shakespeare: 1599. I discovered he also wrote one about the 'who wrote Shakespeare' controversy, Contested Will, which I am listening to on Audible. That book is not interested so much in who might have been 'Shakespeare,' but why people want to believe in a different author.
I don't know why I find Black Dahlia so hard to get through. The same author's book about the 1922 murder of director William Desmond Taylor was a page-turner, but this isn't. And it's not a period thing, either - the Dahlia case has always fascinated me, but there's just something about his narrative style here that leaves me cold.
I am reading, slowly, James Shapiro's A Year in the Life of William Shakespeare: 1599. I discovered he also wrote one about the 'who wrote Shakespeare' controversy, Contested Will, which I am listening to on Audible. That book is not interested so much in who might have been 'Shakespeare,' but why people want to believe in a different author.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026 09:41 AM (ufSfZ)
107
My issue is not book sick, but the fact that I have four or five books going at once, and I jump back and forth. I think that would drive an obsessive compulsive into fits.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at March 01, 2026 09:42 AM (0U5gm)
108
I read the Human Factor years ago and thought it was great I was on a project to reread the books I’d kept for years on the theory I’d reread them someday (I wanted to put that theory to test). I ended up purging about a quarter to a third of what I reread, but The Human Factor is still on my shelves.
Posted by: Who Knew at March 01, 2026 09:44 AM (0QMbS)
109
@62 --
Thank you! I'll look into that.
I have several newspaper-related books on one shelf. Some I may never read. Those are "My Life and the Times" by Turner Catledge, who was once that paper's executive editor; and "The Paper," an account of the glory days and death of the New York Herald Tribune. I've read chunks of the latter, but I never have started from the beginning.
I got "The Paper" through procrastination. It was a promotional copy sent to the newsroom. It circled through the staff until it came to me. Because I was heavily into comics, I let it lie fallow -- and then the guy who was to get it after me got fired. Nobody asked me about it, so I kept it.
Then there is "Coups and Earthquakes," a collection of anecdotes about reporters -- particularly foreign correspondents -- and publishers. I've gone through it numerous times. Recommended for laughter.
Thank you! I'll look into that.
I have several newspaper-related books on one shelf. Some I may never read. Those are "My Life and the Times" by Turner Catledge, who was once that paper's executive editor; and "The Paper," an account of the glory days and death of the New York Herald Tribune. I've read chunks of the latter, but I never have started from the beginning.
I got "The Paper" through procrastination. It was a promotional copy sent to the newsroom. It circled through the staff until it came to me. Because I was heavily into comics, I let it lie fallow -- and then the guy who was to get it after me got fired. Nobody asked me about it, so I kept it.
Then there is "Coups and Earthquakes," a collection of anecdotes about reporters -- particularly foreign correspondents -- and publishers. I've gone through it numerous times. Recommended for laughter.
Posted by: Weak Geek at March 01, 2026 09:44 AM (p/isN)
110
Ever find yourself putting pen to paper or fingers to keyboard and then wondering just what you're doing because the last thing the planet needs is yet another book?
Are there progressive stages to book sick?
Posted by: Just Some Guy at March 01, 2026 09:39 AM (q3u5l)
---
I like the act of writing. It brings me joy. Sometimes I don't have a clear idea of what kind of book I want to do, so I do short form stuff, articles and blog posts (and come here). But the need to write always comes back. I'm feeling it stir right now, for the first time since Walls of Men was published.
When the mood arrives, it becomes almost a compulsion, and I've been known to fall asleep at the keyboard. First drafts show errors piling in near the end of a session. It's pretty funny to read.
Are there progressive stages to book sick?
Posted by: Just Some Guy at March 01, 2026 09:39 AM (q3u5l)
---
I like the act of writing. It brings me joy. Sometimes I don't have a clear idea of what kind of book I want to do, so I do short form stuff, articles and blog posts (and come here). But the need to write always comes back. I'm feeling it stir right now, for the first time since Walls of Men was published.
When the mood arrives, it becomes almost a compulsion, and I've been known to fall asleep at the keyboard. First drafts show errors piling in near the end of a session. It's pretty funny to read.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026 09:44 AM (ZOv7s)
111
Mary Beard's Emperor of Rome looked fascinating, a mix of history and personal anecdotes about the men who ran the Empire, but I wasn't sure if I'd have time to finish it. I could just skim and read about the emperors that really interest me, though.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 09:38 AM (wzUl9)
I have that book and stopped about halfway through. There's only so much information this old grey head can absorb.
Have you ever read any of Alberto Angela's books about daily life in ancient Rome?
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 09:38 AM (wzUl9)
I have that book and stopped about halfway through. There's only so much information this old grey head can absorb.
Have you ever read any of Alberto Angela's books about daily life in ancient Rome?
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026 09:45 AM (ufSfZ)
112
I made a risky purchase recently. But I got it for literally half price, so that will lessen the sting, if it turns out to be bad. The purchase was the "Birds of Prey Omnibus." A collection of comic books from the early 00's about a team of all-female superheroes, drawn by a pair of artists (Ed Benes and Joe Bennett) who are really good at drawing women. That all sounds promising, but what makes the purchase risky is the writer: Gail Simone. She's the living embodiment of everything wrong with current-year storytelling. But people say she used to be a good writer, before she let her agenda take over...I'm not convinced, but I guess I'll find out.
Sometime. I already have a big stack of books on my to-be-read list, and I don't see any reason to jump this book to the front of the line.
Sometime. I already have a big stack of books on my to-be-read list, and I don't see any reason to jump this book to the front of the line.
Posted by: Castle Guy at March 01, 2026 09:46 AM (Lhaco)
113
Yet tossing out books seems like sacrilege. I'm torn.
Posted by: Weak Geek at March 01, 2026 09:29 AM (p/isN)
Donate them to the thrift store. Someone will want them.
Posted by: Weak Geek at March 01, 2026 09:29 AM (p/isN)
Donate them to the thrift store. Someone will want them.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at March 01, 2026 09:46 AM (h7ZuX)
114
As noted last week, I was looking for a hardcover Don Quixote in English, I picked up a nice 2 volume set from eBay.
The editions have plain slipcovers and hardcover, with nice binding.
The editions have plain slipcovers and hardcover, with nice binding.
Posted by: Thomas Bender at March 01, 2026 09:46 AM (XV/Pl)
115
68 ... "For those of you with Audible, Gary Sinse reads Steinbeck's Travels with Charley. It's entertaining"
Notsothoreau,
Sinise really did a great job. I've loved that book since high school. (Which is a long F'ing while ago.) I found the audio CD at the library and enjoyed it so much I bought my own copy. He does a great job with the different characters' voices. Not overly so but effective.
Notsothoreau,
Sinise really did a great job. I've loved that book since high school. (Which is a long F'ing while ago.) I found the audio CD at the library and enjoyed it so much I bought my own copy. He does a great job with the different characters' voices. Not overly so but effective.
Posted by: JTB at March 01, 2026 09:47 AM (yTvNw)
116
Because I was heavily into comics, I let it lie fallow
I am, as well, though my interest (as you could imagine) is on old comic strips like Mutt & Jeff, Old Doc Yak or Baron Bean. I think I might use that as a topic for next month.
I am, as well, though my interest (as you could imagine) is on old comic strips like Mutt & Jeff, Old Doc Yak or Baron Bean. I think I might use that as a topic for next month.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026 09:48 AM (ufSfZ)
117
I read the Human Factor years ago and thought it was great I was on a project to reread the books I’d kept for years on the theory I’d reread them someday (I wanted to put that theory to test). I ended up purging about a quarter to a third of what I reread, but The Human Factor is still on my shelves.
Posted by: Who Knew at March 01, 2026
***
It's a quiet sort of story. The 1979 film listing on IMDb has very good casting, such as Nicol Williamson as Castle.
Posted by: Who Knew at March 01, 2026
***
It's a quiet sort of story. The 1979 film listing on IMDb has very good casting, such as Nicol Williamson as Castle.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 09:48 AM (wzUl9)
118
“ Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.”
Pslam 62:8
Pslam 62:8
Posted by: Marcus T at March 01, 2026 09:49 AM (04KGT)
119
Thanks for the Book Thread, MP4!
Fantastic shoes, but I would start wobbling before taking the first step.
Just finished Dead Drop, a novella by Marc Cameron. This gem was a "bonus" included with one of Cameron's novels. The story features his Jericho Quinn cast of characters and is a real page turner. Jericho, his partner, and their families are late in arriving for a few hours at a water park in Virginia. Shortly after their arrival, there is an explosion in the park, followed by shooting and terrified panic as everyone attempts to exit at the same time. The novella details the horror, bravery, carnage, and rescues of several thousand people at the park by a few heroes, and some of those heroes are children. Lively and fast-paced story telling. Recommended.
Fantastic shoes, but I would start wobbling before taking the first step.
Just finished Dead Drop, a novella by Marc Cameron. This gem was a "bonus" included with one of Cameron's novels. The story features his Jericho Quinn cast of characters and is a real page turner. Jericho, his partner, and their families are late in arriving for a few hours at a water park in Virginia. Shortly after their arrival, there is an explosion in the park, followed by shooting and terrified panic as everyone attempts to exit at the same time. The novella details the horror, bravery, carnage, and rescues of several thousand people at the park by a few heroes, and some of those heroes are children. Lively and fast-paced story telling. Recommended.
Posted by: Legally Sufficient at March 01, 2026 09:49 AM (kB9dk)
120
Impulse purchase when I saw it as a 'deal', Apollo 1 in photographs. A Schiffer archive series started last year that I was not really aware of.
I figured it was mainly a special tribute to Grissom, White & Chaffee, but it's first in a series intended to cover each Apollo mission. Close to 300 pages of purposefully captioned beautiful pics. Most I've not seen before. 7 & 8 already out, if they're half as good I'll continue buying them.
The amount & quality of history books being published on aviation & space is overwhelming. I try to be selective, but there are at least a dozen publishers putting out good series on aircraft of all eras.
I figured it was mainly a special tribute to Grissom, White & Chaffee, but it's first in a series intended to cover each Apollo mission. Close to 300 pages of purposefully captioned beautiful pics. Most I've not seen before. 7 & 8 already out, if they're half as good I'll continue buying them.
The amount & quality of history books being published on aviation & space is overwhelming. I try to be selective, but there are at least a dozen publishers putting out good series on aircraft of all eras.
Posted by: InspiredHistoryMike at March 01, 2026 09:50 AM (KaHlS)
121
"The Warehouse" by Rob Hart is a near future dystopian novel that reminded me a lot of Dave Eggars' much better story "The Circle". It's not made clear, but climate change and economic collapse have led to corporate capitalism pulling the strings, and megacorps have replaced Main Street, so one of the few places to find work is at Cloud (a thinly veiled Amazon). Swarms of drones deliver goods to people who remain housebound due to crime or lack of transportation. The lucky few who get employment at Cloud also eat, sleep, and play inside the compound during their few discretionary hours, and get paid in store credits. It's a giant company town.
The story is told through three characters: Cloud's founder (via his diary), a recent hire who works security, and a corporate espionage mole.
It's a good setup with not much payoff in the end. Eh, it kept me occupied and off the streets.
I noticed climate change was a thing in this novel (2019) and "Detour" (2026). Wonder how long they can chase this chimera. *looks at snow outside*
The story is told through three characters: Cloud's founder (via his diary), a recent hire who works security, and a corporate espionage mole.
It's a good setup with not much payoff in the end. Eh, it kept me occupied and off the streets.
I noticed climate change was a thing in this novel (2019) and "Detour" (2026). Wonder how long they can chase this chimera. *looks at snow outside*
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes. at March 01, 2026 09:50 AM (kpS4V)
122
Do you find it interesting that so many episodes are about spouses offing each other? Not the usual trope of 50's marital bliss.
Posted by: sal at March 01, 2026 09:41 AM (f+FmA)
====
Yes, the cheating spouse is a theme, so is the gold-digger.
Posted by: sal at March 01, 2026 09:41 AM (f+FmA)
====
Yes, the cheating spouse is a theme, so is the gold-digger.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at March 01, 2026 09:51 AM (RIvkX)
123
Mary Beard's Emperor of Rome looked fascinating, a mix of history and personal anecdotes about the men who ran the Empire, but I wasn't sure if I'd have time to finish it. I could just skim and read about the emperors that really interest me, though.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 09:38 AM (wzUl9)
I have that book and stopped about halfway through. There's only so much information this old grey head can absorb.
Have you ever read any of Alberto Angela's books about daily life in ancient Rome?
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026
***
No! I did read one some years ago about daily life in the capital; maybe it was one of his.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 09:38 AM (wzUl9)
I have that book and stopped about halfway through. There's only so much information this old grey head can absorb.
Have you ever read any of Alberto Angela's books about daily life in ancient Rome?
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026
***
No! I did read one some years ago about daily life in the capital; maybe it was one of his.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 09:52 AM (wzUl9)
124
Dan Simmons, RIP.
His Hyperion Cantos is a kick-ass series of novels with plenty of great SF ideas, good people, villains, and moments of awesome. I highly recommend the entire series.
I did dislike the opening of the last book, The Rise of Endymion, but my tastes are not those of others.
Also recommended is a short story in that universe, Orphans of the Helix.
His Hyperion Cantos is a kick-ass series of novels with plenty of great SF ideas, good people, villains, and moments of awesome. I highly recommend the entire series.
I did dislike the opening of the last book, The Rise of Endymion, but my tastes are not those of others.
Also recommended is a short story in that universe, Orphans of the Helix.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at March 01, 2026 09:52 AM (u82oZ)
125
Ever find yourself putting pen to paper or fingers to keyboard and then wondering just what you're doing because the last thing the planet needs is yet another book?
Posted by: Just Some Guy at March 01, 2026 09:39 AM (q3u5l)
There's plenty of room for our books. All we need to do is gather the books by pervs, feminists, communists, socialist, democrats, purple hairs, excessive pierced weirdos with bird hands, and burn them. See, problem solved.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at March 01, 2026 09:39 AM (q3u5l)
There's plenty of room for our books. All we need to do is gather the books by pervs, feminists, communists, socialist, democrats, purple hairs, excessive pierced weirdos with bird hands, and burn them. See, problem solved.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at March 01, 2026 09:53 AM (uQesX)
126
I thought the entire 9 book run (plus 8 or so novellas) of The Expanse was excellent. Really wish they could start putting the last 3 books on film the way they did the first 6. Though I understand how tough it would be to do so, given the 40 year time gap between books 6 and 7. Great scifi series.
Posted by: Sharkman at March 01, 2026 09:53 AM (/RHNq)
127
“ Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.”
Pslam 62:8
Posted by: Marcus T at March 01, 2026 09:49 AM (04KGT)
---
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Oh my Jesus, forgive us our sins, save us from the fires of hell. Lead all souls to heaven, especially those most in need of Thy mercy. Amen.
Pslam 62:8
Posted by: Marcus T at March 01, 2026 09:49 AM (04KGT)
---
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Oh my Jesus, forgive us our sins, save us from the fires of hell. Lead all souls to heaven, especially those most in need of Thy mercy. Amen.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026 09:54 AM (ZOv7s)
128
Yes, the cheating spouse is a theme, so is the gold-digger.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at March 01, 2026 09:51 AM (RIvkX)
---
It is a sign of a healthy society, where breaking up a marriage is scandalous and evil, not empowering.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at March 01, 2026 09:51 AM (RIvkX)
---
It is a sign of a healthy society, where breaking up a marriage is scandalous and evil, not empowering.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026 09:55 AM (ZOv7s)
129
Among my vast collection, the only books I have not read are the Aubrey–Maturin series. I read the first one, and did OK. The next one I bounced away. I do have the complete series.
I also have the complete Hornblower books by C.S. Forester, and many Alexander Kent books.
I also have the complete Hornblower books by C.S. Forester, and many Alexander Kent books.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at March 01, 2026 09:55 AM (u82oZ)
130
There are flurries coming down outside, so no real reason for me to go anywhere today.
My project, as it was yesterday, is to continue editing my new book. It goes slowly; I write without referencing anything other than my own limited knowledge of silent movies and period Hollywood. It's during the editing that I have to fill in all the details and provide color, which is what I am doing now.
My project, as it was yesterday, is to continue editing my new book. It goes slowly; I write without referencing anything other than my own limited knowledge of silent movies and period Hollywood. It's during the editing that I have to fill in all the details and provide color, which is what I am doing now.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026 09:56 AM (ufSfZ)
131
Skydragon worship is a thing you must take on faith
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at March 01, 2026 09:56 AM (bXbFr)
132
Sorry to bust into your thread...
Mass shooting in Austin. 3 dead (I don't know if that includes the shooter - who is dead) and 14 injured. Suspect has not been identified.
Mass shooting in Austin. 3 dead (I don't know if that includes the shooter - who is dead) and 14 injured. Suspect has not been identified.
Posted by: I used to have a different nic at March 01, 2026 09:56 AM (ExV1e)
133
I would lay money down that at least 95% of us have this affliction.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs!
I am 62 and have at least 400 unread books sitting patiently on my Kindle, and another 40 hardbacks and paperbacks that I need to read. I realize I'll have to live to be 100 to read them all, since I also buy a couple books every payday. Challenge Accepted!!
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs!
I am 62 and have at least 400 unread books sitting patiently on my Kindle, and another 40 hardbacks and paperbacks that I need to read. I realize I'll have to live to be 100 to read them all, since I also buy a couple books every payday. Challenge Accepted!!
Posted by: Sharkman at March 01, 2026 09:56 AM (/RHNq)
134
I discovered he also wrote one about the 'who wrote Shakespeare' controversy, Contested Will, which I am listening to on Audible. That book is not interested so much in who might have been 'Shakespeare,' but why people want to believe in a different author.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026 09:41 AM (ufSfZ)
I think because they're elitists. They think a "butcher's boy from Stratford" couldn't have written anything like that. Too uneducated, it had to be an aristocrat.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026 09:41 AM (ufSfZ)
I think because they're elitists. They think a "butcher's boy from Stratford" couldn't have written anything like that. Too uneducated, it had to be an aristocrat.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at March 01, 2026 09:57 AM (uQesX)
135
Just a note about somewhat incoherent first comment. (Typing on a iPad must be a skill I lack) The archaic dialogue is in reference to The Black Arrow..
Posted by: Who Knew at March 01, 2026 09:58 AM (0QMbS)
136
Spouses offing each other in AH Presents episodes.
The tropes of 50s marital bliss -- not sure I recall those tropes much of anywhere except in tv sitcoms. Were the tropes present in much fiction?
And for a delightful short story along these lines -- 'Over Insurance' by John Collier. If you can read the last sentence without falling down laughing you're made of sterner stuff than this kid.
The tropes of 50s marital bliss -- not sure I recall those tropes much of anywhere except in tv sitcoms. Were the tropes present in much fiction?
And for a delightful short story along these lines -- 'Over Insurance' by John Collier. If you can read the last sentence without falling down laughing you're made of sterner stuff than this kid.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at March 01, 2026 09:58 AM (q3u5l)
137
@116 --
Oh, boy, I'll look forward to that!
I'm a member of two Facebook groups devoted to old comic strips and panels. I'm getting regular fixes of "Our Boarding House -- With Major Hoople." My favorite comics work.
Oh, boy, I'll look forward to that!
I'm a member of two Facebook groups devoted to old comic strips and panels. I'm getting regular fixes of "Our Boarding House -- With Major Hoople." My favorite comics work.
Posted by: Weak Geek at March 01, 2026 09:58 AM (p/isN)
138
I splurged on a two book set of Treasure Island and Kidnapped by RLS with the Wyeth illustrations. It's a slipcase edition from Abbeville Press. Wyeth illustrations and Stevenson's writing just go together. I've looked at it before but when the price dropped from 50 bucks to 35 I caved. A side benefit is one of my other copies of Treasure Island is going to be a gift to a great nephew when he turns eight next year. He's the one his dad calls a 'reading machine'.
BTW, Amazon did their usual lousy job of packaging. It was just loose in a box with no padding. Used books I get are packaged better. That's annoying when the book is inexpensive. But when the book is 50 dollars or more, I expect more care. Barnes and Noble is sometimes more expensive but the packaging is MUCH better.
BTW, Amazon did their usual lousy job of packaging. It was just loose in a box with no padding. Used books I get are packaged better. That's annoying when the book is inexpensive. But when the book is 50 dollars or more, I expect more care. Barnes and Noble is sometimes more expensive but the packaging is MUCH better.
Posted by: JTB at March 01, 2026 10:00 AM (yTvNw)
139
I am, as well, though my interest (as you could imagine) is on old comic strips like Mutt & Jeff, Old Doc Yak or Baron Bean. I think I might use that as a topic for next month.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026 09:48 AM (ufSfZ)
Isn't Gasoline Alley still running?
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026 09:48 AM (ufSfZ)
Isn't Gasoline Alley still running?
Posted by: OrangeEnt at March 01, 2026 10:00 AM (uQesX)
140
When we weed the books, we each make a stack of books we want to get rid of, and the other has veto power over your stack.
Posted by: sal at March 01, 2026 09:38 AM (f+FmA)
That could be entertaining!
Posted by: sal at March 01, 2026 09:38 AM (f+FmA)
That could be entertaining!
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at March 01, 2026 10:01 AM (h7ZuX)
141
@112 --
I'll be interested in what you say about that. I ditched Birds of Prey when Chuck Dixon left.
Devin Grayson and Gail Simone are on my "never buy" list.
I'll be interested in what you say about that. I ditched Birds of Prey when Chuck Dixon left.
Devin Grayson and Gail Simone are on my "never buy" list.
Posted by: Weak Geek at March 01, 2026 10:01 AM (p/isN)
142
Years ago picked up Dan Simmons’ The Terror without knowing anything about it save for it was based upon the Franklin Expedition. Loved it and began searching out other Simmons books like the “Seasons” series, Drood, the hard boiled Joe Kurtz Buffalo novels and his shorts story collections. Never got into the Olympos/Hyperion books as sci fi or fantasy isn’t my thing.
Never forget the “oh c’mon, you gotta be kidding me” experience of reading the final hundred or so pages of The Abominable, and laughing all the way at the sheer audacity.
R.I.P.
Never forget the “oh c’mon, you gotta be kidding me” experience of reading the final hundred or so pages of The Abominable, and laughing all the way at the sheer audacity.
R.I.P.
Posted by: Buzzy Krumhunger at March 01, 2026 10:02 AM (AiDq0)
143
Probably another furry psycho
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at March 01, 2026 10:02 AM (bXbFr)
144
I felt compelled to write something recently. A person I worked with years ago passed away suddenly. He was a colorful character and word got around quickly as many of my peers remembered him fondly. He was responsible for a goofy acronym that became almost folklore in sort of an "Office Space" kind of way. I happened to be in earshot at the time of it's creation and I couldn't stop thinking about how the silly little backstory deserved to be told. But I knew I would be unable to attend the memorial service.
So I finally relented to the nagging voice and wrote it down. It was a single page. After it got cold and was edited I emailed it to his wife now widow. Almost immediately she wrote me back with a gracious note and profuse thanks.
It reinforced a simple principle to me: when I get the sense I'm supposed to write, dammit, stop what you're doing and write!!
So I finally relented to the nagging voice and wrote it down. It was a single page. After it got cold and was edited I emailed it to his wife now widow. Almost immediately she wrote me back with a gracious note and profuse thanks.
It reinforced a simple principle to me: when I get the sense I'm supposed to write, dammit, stop what you're doing and write!!
Posted by: Quarter Twenty at March 01, 2026 10:03 AM (2Ez/1)
145
The 2007 book World War IV : The Long Struggle Against Islamofascism by Norman Podhoretz deserves another read.
Posted by: Opinion fact at March 01, 2026 10:05 AM (4hjRS)
Posted by: NaCly Dog at March 01, 2026 10:06 AM (u82oZ)
147
Spouses offing each other in AH Presents episodes.
*
The tropes of 50s marital bliss -- not sure I recall those tropes much of anywhere except in tv sitcoms. Were the tropes present in much fiction?
And for a delightful short story along these lines -- 'Over Insurance' by John Collier. If you can read the last sentence without falling down laughing you're made of sterner stuff than this kid.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at March 01, 2026
***
Collier had a couple of stories adapted to AH Presents, too. His short works often turned up in the AH anthologies like 13 More Stories They Wouldn't Let Me Do on TV.
I think the marital bliss tropes were more honored in the breach than in the observance. No conflict if the marriage was happy. John D. MacDonald's The Executioners being an exception: The conflict comes from Max Cady, from outside the leads' marriage.
*
The tropes of 50s marital bliss -- not sure I recall those tropes much of anywhere except in tv sitcoms. Were the tropes present in much fiction?
And for a delightful short story along these lines -- 'Over Insurance' by John Collier. If you can read the last sentence without falling down laughing you're made of sterner stuff than this kid.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at March 01, 2026
***
Collier had a couple of stories adapted to AH Presents, too. His short works often turned up in the AH anthologies like 13 More Stories They Wouldn't Let Me Do on TV.
I think the marital bliss tropes were more honored in the breach than in the observance. No conflict if the marriage was happy. John D. MacDonald's The Executioners being an exception: The conflict comes from Max Cady, from outside the leads' marriage.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 10:06 AM (wzUl9)
148
Since there’s chatter about newspapers on today’s thread I thought I throw in a recommendation for Mencken’s Newspaper Days. I read it at least 40 years ago but remember throughly enjoying it and a newer copy is buried somewhere on my TBR pile
Posted by: Who Knew at March 01, 2026 10:06 AM (0QMbS)
149
I usually have a kindle book and a different Audible book going at the same time. I'm reading Dragon Noir by Cedar Sanderson and listening to Of Darkness and Light by Ryan Cahill.
I'm picky about the Audible books I listen to. A bad narrator can ruin everything. Sometimes it's just their voice that puts me off. I try to listen to the sample to see if I can stand their voice.
I'm picky about the Audible books I listen to. A bad narrator can ruin everything. Sometimes it's just their voice that puts me off. I try to listen to the sample to see if I can stand their voice.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at March 01, 2026 10:06 AM (VCgbV)
150
At the moment, experimenting with sourdough bread. So more youtube videos instead of books.
Recently got Plato's Republic. I never read it entirely before, only excepts.
I used to ride the bus a lot, and read on the bus. Now I drive. Listening to books on tape would have me arriving in Albuquerque with no memory of how I got there, so ... no.
I do enjoy the suggestions from the book thread, so thank you, MP4.
Somebody also mention Hyperion Cantos a few days ago, so maybe give a try. RIP to the author.
Recently got Plato's Republic. I never read it entirely before, only excepts.
I used to ride the bus a lot, and read on the bus. Now I drive. Listening to books on tape would have me arriving in Albuquerque with no memory of how I got there, so ... no.
I do enjoy the suggestions from the book thread, so thank you, MP4.
Somebody also mention Hyperion Cantos a few days ago, so maybe give a try. RIP to the author.
Posted by: Adriane the Lens Cap Covered Camera Photography Critic . . . at March 01, 2026 10:06 AM (3ZUWJ)
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116
I am, as well, though my interest (as you could imagine) is on old comic strips like Mutt & Jeff, Old Doc Yak or Baron Bean. I think I might use that as a topic for next month.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026 09:48 AM (ufSfZ)
I haven't even heard of those strips! But, I suppose outside of Pogo, all the strips that I'm familiar with were either adventure stories, or series that were still running in the 90s, when I was actively reading them.
I am, as well, though my interest (as you could imagine) is on old comic strips like Mutt & Jeff, Old Doc Yak or Baron Bean. I think I might use that as a topic for next month.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026 09:48 AM (ufSfZ)
I haven't even heard of those strips! But, I suppose outside of Pogo, all the strips that I'm familiar with were either adventure stories, or series that were still running in the 90s, when I was actively reading them.
Posted by: Castle Guy at March 01, 2026 10:06 AM (Lhaco)
152
My early morning peace this morning was disrupted by a shouting match in the hallway outside the door to my squalid hovel. Celebrations were started by the crazy guy across the hall screaming at the voices in his head. At least I was able to keep my dog from getting involved.
Maybe there's a short story here.
Maybe there's a short story here.
Posted by: Northernlurker , Maple Syrup MAGA at March 01, 2026 10:06 AM (uP8XJ)
153
Isn't Gasoline Alley still running?
Posted by: OrangeEnt at March 01, 2026
***
No idea. It was the first strip, I think, to present the stories of the characters in order, not in just anecdotes or isolated adventures, and to allow them to age, so that a child in the early days of the strip -- "Skeezix"? -- grew to adulthood as the comic went along.
Isn't Gasoline Alley still running?
Posted by: OrangeEnt at March 01, 2026
***
No idea. It was the first strip, I think, to present the stories of the characters in order, not in just anecdotes or isolated adventures, and to allow them to age, so that a child in the early days of the strip -- "Skeezix"? -- grew to adulthood as the comic went along.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 10:09 AM (wzUl9)
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Isn't Gasoline Alley still running?
It is, penned by Jim Scancarelli, who is only the third artist in the strip's history.
There is a project - like the Pogo project - to reprint all the Frank King strips in volumes that cover 2 years each of GA. It opened with Walt Before Skeezix, which covered the original strip from its beginning as a one-panel joke about cars and the men who owned them, then into the regular story strip it became in the early 1920s. I have 4 volumes and they are very well researched and packaged.
It is, penned by Jim Scancarelli, who is only the third artist in the strip's history.
There is a project - like the Pogo project - to reprint all the Frank King strips in volumes that cover 2 years each of GA. It opened with Walt Before Skeezix, which covered the original strip from its beginning as a one-panel joke about cars and the men who owned them, then into the regular story strip it became in the early 1920s. I have 4 volumes and they are very well researched and packaged.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026 10:09 AM (ufSfZ)
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My humble abode is the black hole of books. Once purchased, or brought in here, my bibliomania is so strong no books can escape. I even have some of my old college textbooks.
Posted by: Cow Demon at March 01, 2026 10:12 AM (hJH5n)
156
Maybe there's a short story here.
Posted by: Northernlurker , Maple Syrup MAGA
I vote 'Yay'!
: -))
Posted by: Northernlurker , Maple Syrup MAGA
I vote 'Yay'!
: -))
Posted by: Adriane the Lens Cap Covered Camera Photography Critic . . . at March 01, 2026 10:12 AM (3ZUWJ)
157
Ask your doctor if Skeezix is right for you.
Posted by: Big Farma Marketing Department at March 01, 2026 10:12 AM (2Ez/1)
158
Mass shooting in Austin. 3 dead (I don't know if that includes the shooter - who is dead) and 14 injured. Suspect has not been identified.
Posted by: I used to have a different nic
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It use to be a very famous and popular college bar area but now it's full of gang bangers who come into town to party in the area. Since the fbi is involved it could indicate cartel vs banger stuff. Everyone in Austin stays away now except a few naive/stupid UT Austin kids. I mean, they have police and EMS stationed there every weekend in anticipation of a shooting.
Posted by: I used to have a different nic
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It use to be a very famous and popular college bar area but now it's full of gang bangers who come into town to party in the area. Since the fbi is involved it could indicate cartel vs banger stuff. Everyone in Austin stays away now except a few naive/stupid UT Austin kids. I mean, they have police and EMS stationed there every weekend in anticipation of a shooting.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at March 01, 2026 10:13 AM (VCgbV)
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The one in the middle is definitely Willie Nelson.
Posted by: Commissar of plenty and festive little hats at March 01, 2026 10:13 AM (Kt19C)
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Still making my way through my Madison bio.
Posted by: Cow Demon at March 01, 2026 10:14 AM (hJH5n)
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I'll add a 3rd or 4th recommend for Travels with Charley narrated by Gary Sinise. Anything Penguin Classic has earned getting my attention. I wishlist about as many newly added audio library books as I do moron horde book thread titles. ( I need to thin Libby wishlist below 800).
'Travels' was a 'read something different' listen when my library added it, and it was very enjoyable.
'Travels' was a 'read something different' listen when my library added it, and it was very enjoyable.
Posted by: InspiredHistoryMike at March 01, 2026 10:14 AM (KaHlS)
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Comic strips fall into two categories: the strip whose original writer / artist died, but who chose a successor - Gasoline Alley, Blondie, Snuffy Smith, Beetle Bailey - and those which live on because the syndicate makes money and chose a writer / artist themselves. Those are called 'ghost strips,' and Nancy and Popeye are prime examples.
There are also the strips that die because no-one can recapture the original attitude - Krazy Kat, Pogo - and ones where the creator themselves forbid a new artist - Peanuts.
There are also the strips that die because no-one can recapture the original attitude - Krazy Kat, Pogo - and ones where the creator themselves forbid a new artist - Peanuts.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026 10:14 AM (ufSfZ)
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Wolfus --
Yep, the Bowdens' marriage in JDM's The Executioners (aka Cape Fear) is a happy one. But he did quite a bit with unhappy ones too. At least three of his novels (The Deceivers, Cancel All Our Vows, and Clemmie) centered on cheating spouses for the main story rather than crime/suspense. And the crime/suspense novels featured their share of faithless and often murderous spouses as well.
Yep, the Bowdens' marriage in JDM's The Executioners (aka Cape Fear) is a happy one. But he did quite a bit with unhappy ones too. At least three of his novels (The Deceivers, Cancel All Our Vows, and Clemmie) centered on cheating spouses for the main story rather than crime/suspense. And the crime/suspense novels featured their share of faithless and often murderous spouses as well.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at March 01, 2026 10:15 AM (q3u5l)
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No idea. It was the first strip, I think, to present the stories of the characters in order, not in just anecdotes or isolated adventures, and to allow them to age, so that a child in the early days of the strip -- "Skeezix"? -- grew to adulthood as the comic went along.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 10:09 AM (wzUl9)
That I knew. It was a couple of years ago when I read it was still being produced, so I wasn't sure.
It is, penned by Jim Scancarelli, who is only the third artist in the strip's history.
It opened with Walt Before Skeezix, which covered the original strip from its beginning as a one-panel joke about cars and the men who owned them, then into the regular story strip it became in the early 1920s. I have 4 volumes and they are very well researched and packaged.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026 10:09 AM (ufSfZ)
I'm surprised it's lasted so long when others of its type have disappeared.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 10:09 AM (wzUl9)
That I knew. It was a couple of years ago when I read it was still being produced, so I wasn't sure.
It is, penned by Jim Scancarelli, who is only the third artist in the strip's history.
It opened with Walt Before Skeezix, which covered the original strip from its beginning as a one-panel joke about cars and the men who owned them, then into the regular story strip it became in the early 1920s. I have 4 volumes and they are very well researched and packaged.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026 10:09 AM (ufSfZ)
I'm surprised it's lasted so long when others of its type have disappeared.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at March 01, 2026 10:17 AM (uQesX)
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138
BTW, Amazon did their usual lousy job of packaging. It was just loose in a box with no padding. Used books I get are packaged better. That's annoying when the book is inexpensive. But when the book is 50 dollars or more, I expect more care. Barnes and Noble is sometimes more expensive but the packaging is MUCH better.
Posted by: JTB at March 01, 2026 10:00 AM (yTvNw)
I don't think I've ever ordered books from Barns and Noble (bought plenty in-store, buy not on-line) but I share your complaints about Amazon's dubious packaging practices. I've bought a number of expensive (big and heavy) books off of ebay, and while that will vary by seller, most sellers of new books will package them pretty well. However, when purchasing cheap used books....yeah, people who deal in those books sometimes cheap out on the packaging.
BTW, Amazon did their usual lousy job of packaging. It was just loose in a box with no padding. Used books I get are packaged better. That's annoying when the book is inexpensive. But when the book is 50 dollars or more, I expect more care. Barnes and Noble is sometimes more expensive but the packaging is MUCH better.
Posted by: JTB at March 01, 2026 10:00 AM (yTvNw)
I don't think I've ever ordered books from Barns and Noble (bought plenty in-store, buy not on-line) but I share your complaints about Amazon's dubious packaging practices. I've bought a number of expensive (big and heavy) books off of ebay, and while that will vary by seller, most sellers of new books will package them pretty well. However, when purchasing cheap used books....yeah, people who deal in those books sometimes cheap out on the packaging.
Posted by: Castle Guy at March 01, 2026 10:17 AM (Lhaco)
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Really sorry to hear of Dan Simmons' death. I enjoyed the Hyperion series, with reservations. His hard-boiled detective series was a lot of fun and well-executed. The ones that really got to me were more on the creepy side. I can't think of another author who can reach out of the book and creep out the reader so well.
Carrion Comfort is probably my favorite; I re-read it periodically. Song of Kali and The Terror were superbly done, but I'm not sure I'm going to ever want to read them again, because they were really unsettling.
There are a bunch I have not been able to get through, including the Roman ones and Flashback. Likely I'll give them another try at some point.
Carrion Comfort is probably my favorite; I re-read it periodically. Song of Kali and The Terror were superbly done, but I'm not sure I'm going to ever want to read them again, because they were really unsettling.
There are a bunch I have not been able to get through, including the Roman ones and Flashback. Likely I'll give them another try at some point.
Posted by: Splunge at March 01, 2026 10:17 AM (KEowH)
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Been reading some classic SF that I missed back in the 1970s -- a DAW collection of Andre Norton stories, a collection of Gordon Dickson stories, and a volume of three novellas by Poul Anderson.
All of them could practically take place in the same universe. It seems as though there used to be much more of a standard "default future" in SF.
The Norton stories are good, the Anderson stories are not his best but not bad -- but I found myself a little disappointed in the Dickson short stories. I haven't read any of his novels -- is he better at long than short works?
All of them could practically take place in the same universe. It seems as though there used to be much more of a standard "default future" in SF.
The Norton stories are good, the Anderson stories are not his best but not bad -- but I found myself a little disappointed in the Dickson short stories. I haven't read any of his novels -- is he better at long than short works?
Posted by: Trimegistus at March 01, 2026 10:20 AM (78a2H)
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So is the world standing?
Posted by: Eromero at March 01, 2026 10:21 AM (DXbAa)
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All right, folks, if I don't give myself a kick in the pants, I won't get any editing done today. I'm hoping to ask for a few beta readers by the end of May, but who knows?
Hope you all have a lovely day.
Hope you all have a lovely day.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at March 01, 2026 10:22 AM (ufSfZ)
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The Shoe! Did Piper get her early?
Posted by: JM in Illinois at March 01, 2026 10:24 AM (ZQOYp)
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I'll be interested in what you say about that. I ditched Birds of Prey when Chuck Dixon left.
Devin Grayson and Gail Simone are on my "never buy" list.
Posted by: Weak Geek at March 01, 2026 10:01 AM (p/isN)
There is no reason for DC to be collecting the Simone run but not the Dixon run. No reason except for spite or stupidity...
After how she desecrated Red Sonja, Simone SHOULD be on my never-buy list....but this was half price, and people insist she didn't suck during this run. I dunno. It may well have been a bad purchase. I have never read anything by Grayson, but nothing I've heard makes me want to start.
I'll be interested in what you say about that. I ditched Birds of Prey when Chuck Dixon left.
Devin Grayson and Gail Simone are on my "never buy" list.
Posted by: Weak Geek at March 01, 2026 10:01 AM (p/isN)
There is no reason for DC to be collecting the Simone run but not the Dixon run. No reason except for spite or stupidity...
After how she desecrated Red Sonja, Simone SHOULD be on my never-buy list....but this was half price, and people insist she didn't suck during this run. I dunno. It may well have been a bad purchase. I have never read anything by Grayson, but nothing I've heard makes me want to start.
Posted by: Castle Guy at March 01, 2026 10:25 AM (Lhaco)
Posted by: JM in Illinois at March 01, 2026 10:26 AM (ZQOYp)
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For a reissue of Summer of Night, Dan Simmons wrote an introduction discussing the freedom the kids in that novel had in 1960 that would get parents a visit from CPS these days. It's worth a look. You can read that intro as part of the sample viewable in the book's Kindle store page.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at March 01, 2026 10:27 AM (q3u5l)
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Can anyone remember the title of a piece Dan Simmons wrote after 9/11, about getting a visit from his future self?
Posted by: Trimegistus at March 01, 2026 10:27 AM (78a2H)
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The Norton stories are good, the Anderson stories are not his best but not bad -- but I found myself a little disappointed in the Dickson short stories. I haven't read any of his novels -- is he better at long than short works?
Posted by: Trimegistus at March 01, 2026
***
Which Dickson collection is this? I have The Star Road from about 1972, featuring stories he published in the '60s; that's the one with "On Messenger Mountain" in it. The only other one I remember well from that collection is "Jackal's Meal," involving a human ambassador's clash with a race of aliens called the Morah.
Posted by: Trimegistus at March 01, 2026
***
Which Dickson collection is this? I have The Star Road from about 1972, featuring stories he published in the '60s; that's the one with "On Messenger Mountain" in it. The only other one I remember well from that collection is "Jackal's Meal," involving a human ambassador's clash with a race of aliens called the Morah.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 10:27 AM (wzUl9)
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I mean, they have police and EMS stationed there every weekend in anticipation of a shooting.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended
They did the job apparently ... (https://www.kxan.com article) ... as in kept it from being worse by shooting the guy.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended
They did the job apparently ... (https://www.kxan.com article) ... as in kept it from being worse by shooting the guy.
Posted by: Adriane the Lens Cap Covered Camera Photography Critic . . . at March 01, 2026 10:27 AM (3ZUWJ)
177
I've noticed something very refreshing about the military actions in Iran. There doesn't seem to be any MFM reporters embedded with any of the units and combat crews. That may be the reason they were able to pull this off. No info leaks.
Posted by: Dr. Pork Chops & Bacons at March 01, 2026 10:28 AM (g8Ew8)
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Have a good one, MP4 -- thanks for the thread.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at March 01, 2026 10:28 AM (q3u5l)
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I'm reading Little Dorrit ... Tough read.... Sadly on a different note It's been announced we lost 3 service members in the Iran attacks...Pray for their families
Posted by: It's me donna at March 01, 2026 10:28 AM (VE6XX)
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CENTCOM announces 3 U.S. service members have been KIA and five seriously wounded. Several others have sustained minor shrapnel injuries and concussions.
Posted by: one hour sober at March 01, 2026 10:29 AM (Y1sOo)
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I always read 1 at a time, don't start next until done the last.
Have plans for next couple but won't get them until needed.
And that to get list can change before then.
Have plans for next couple but won't get them until needed.
And that to get list can change before then.
Posted by: Skip at March 01, 2026 10:30 AM (Ia/+0)
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Discussing old comic strips brings back memories. I loved those things, especially the adventure ones: The Phantom, Prince Valiant, Steve Canyon, Dick Tracy (loved those silly faces on the bad guys), even Mark Trail. Between our local daily paper and the Providence Journal (every house got both) I had a good selection to choose from. I suspect my desire to understand the word balloons with the exciting pictures inspired me to start reading before kindergarten.
Posted by: JTB at March 01, 2026 10:31 AM (yTvNw)
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I'm picky about the Audible books I listen to. A bad narrator can ruin everything. Sometimes it's just their voice that puts me off. I try to listen to the sample to see if I can stand their voice.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at March 01, 2026 10:06 AM (VCgbV)
Same. I'll know within a few paragraphs if I will be able to listen to a book or not. Over-dramatic? Returned. Odd pauses, returned. Horrible voicing of the other sex (i.e. women doing men's voices, men doing women's voices), returned. I probably return more audio books than I listen to.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at March 01, 2026 10:06 AM (VCgbV)
Same. I'll know within a few paragraphs if I will be able to listen to a book or not. Over-dramatic? Returned. Odd pauses, returned. Horrible voicing of the other sex (i.e. women doing men's voices, men doing women's voices), returned. I probably return more audio books than I listen to.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at March 01, 2026 10:31 AM (h7ZuX)
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One of my favorite books as a kid was a one-volume collection of old (to me) comics called "Cartoon Cavalcade" (1943). It's still on my shelf.
Happy Hooligan, Alphonse and Gaston, Buster Brown (who was a little terror), The Katzenjammer" Kids, on to Held's jazz age vamps and Peter Arno's saucy couples, and the squiggly weirdness of James Thurber.
Well now I've got to leaf through it for the thousandth time.
Happy Hooligan, Alphonse and Gaston, Buster Brown (who was a little terror), The Katzenjammer" Kids, on to Held's jazz age vamps and Peter Arno's saucy couples, and the squiggly weirdness of James Thurber.
Well now I've got to leaf through it for the thousandth time.
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes. at March 01, 2026 10:31 AM (kpS4V)
185
As for Gordon Dickson's novels, I don't know. He's famous for the Dorsai Cycle, in which humanity has splintered among the stars into different cultures, and the Dorsai are warriors and professional soldiers. With Poul Anderson he turned out some of the funniest SF ever with the Hoka stories. And Wolf and Iron depicts a post-apocalyptic America, in which the lead character, a human male, forms a kind of partnership with a wild wolf.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 10:32 AM (wzUl9)
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A warning from time traveler
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at March 01, 2026 10:33 AM (bXbFr)
187
I always read 1 at a time, don't start next until done the last.
Have plans for next couple but won't get them until needed.
And that to get list can change before then.
Posted by: Skip at March 01, 2026 10:30 AM (Ia/+0)
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I used to do that but doing research for nonfiction forced me to change. It's sort of the old school days thing, where you have required readings for homework and then read for fun.
I don't generally have to "fun" books going at the same time.
Have plans for next couple but won't get them until needed.
And that to get list can change before then.
Posted by: Skip at March 01, 2026 10:30 AM (Ia/+0)
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I used to do that but doing research for nonfiction forced me to change. It's sort of the old school days thing, where you have required readings for homework and then read for fun.
I don't generally have to "fun" books going at the same time.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026 10:33 AM (ZOv7s)
188
We're now the villainous rogue nation whose leaders need to be taken out. A threat to world peace. But no one will liberate us.
Posted by: Sid at March 01, 2026 10:34 AM (Bhh+v)
189
Still slowly working through Martin Chuzzlewit and enjoying it now that Dickens is done with his typical early book throat clearing.
I'm also going to be reading LeCarre's Little Drummer Girl as I just watched the HBO miniseries and I want to compare and contrast
I'm also going to be reading LeCarre's Little Drummer Girl as I just watched the HBO miniseries and I want to compare and contrast
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at March 01, 2026 10:35 AM (xcxpd)
190
Really sorry to hear of Dan Simmons' death. I enjoyed the Hyperion series, with reservations.
I liked Hyperion too, but I felt like he mailed it in on the last book in the series.
I liked Hyperion too, but I felt like he mailed it in on the last book in the series.
Posted by: Halfhand at March 01, 2026 10:35 AM (5slMQ)
191
As for Gordon Dickson's novels, I don't know. He's famous for the Dorsai Cycle, in which humanity has splintered among the stars into different cultures, and the Dorsai are warriors and professional soldiers. With Poul Anderson he turned out some of the funniest SF ever with the Hoka stories. And Wolf and Iron depicts a post-apocalyptic America, in which the lead character, a human male, forms a kind of partnership with a wild wolf.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 10:32 AM (wzUl9)
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I enjoyed The Dragon and the George, which was a fun take on fantasy/time travel. Started as a short story ("St. Dragon and the George"). Lots of books were like that.
I read a Dorsai book and it was about some news reporter and how they were totally impartial, sacrosanct, etc. and it was so verrry dated.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 10:32 AM (wzUl9)
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I enjoyed The Dragon and the George, which was a fun take on fantasy/time travel. Started as a short story ("St. Dragon and the George"). Lots of books were like that.
I read a Dorsai book and it was about some news reporter and how they were totally impartial, sacrosanct, etc. and it was so verrry dated.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026 10:35 AM (ZOv7s)
192
Trimegistus,
I dimly remember that post-9/11 Dan Simmons piece, but can't recall exactly where I saw it. Got a feeling it was on his blog and discussion board site, which I don't think has been online in years.
I dimly remember that post-9/11 Dan Simmons piece, but can't recall exactly where I saw it. Got a feeling it was on his blog and discussion board site, which I don't think has been online in years.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at March 01, 2026 10:35 AM (q3u5l)
193
I'm also going to be reading LeCarre's Little Drummer Girl as I just watched the HBO miniseries and I want to compare and contrast
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at March 01, 2026 10:35 AM (xcxpd)
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Wasn't that a movie in the 1980s? I'm old enough to remember when non-comic/fantasy books were made into decent movies.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at March 01, 2026 10:35 AM (xcxpd)
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Wasn't that a movie in the 1980s? I'm old enough to remember when non-comic/fantasy books were made into decent movies.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026 10:37 AM (ZOv7s)
194
>>>Does this sound familiar to you?
Whenever I am "book sick" I pull out a book to read for a while.
Larry Correia is usually good, David Drake or Betty MacDonald. Carlo Cipolla is my go to when I just don't want fiction and I want to scratch that historical economics itch.
Some writers are harder than others to read. Those four have liquid, open prose that is a delight to read no matter what the subject
Whenever I am "book sick" I pull out a book to read for a while.
Larry Correia is usually good, David Drake or Betty MacDonald. Carlo Cipolla is my go to when I just don't want fiction and I want to scratch that historical economics itch.
Some writers are harder than others to read. Those four have liquid, open prose that is a delight to read no matter what the subject
Posted by: Kindltot at March 01, 2026 10:37 AM (rbvCR)
195
Book Sickness is definitely a thing. You know exactly what you *want* and it isn't any of the books you *have* and you can't tell if the NEW books will be any good until you read them!
The closest solution I've found are the groups on Goodreads where you can ask for "Books like X".
The closest solution I've found are the groups on Goodreads where you can ask for "Books like X".
Posted by: Sabrina Chase at March 01, 2026 10:38 AM (EIcmO)
196
LOL at Sid. Really. Lord have mercy.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at March 01, 2026 10:38 AM (h7ZuX)
197
I have a modest collection of Gordon Dickson in my library. I grew up on his stuff in the 80's sci fi paperback boom. I'm a fan. Hoka and the Dorsai mostly.
I still think about his needle guns and wonder how workable they would be.
I still think about his needle guns and wonder how workable they would be.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at March 01, 2026 10:39 AM (xcxpd)
198
I'm also going to be reading LeCarre's Little Drummer Girl as I just watched the HBO miniseries and I want to compare and contrast
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at March 01, 2026 10:35 AM (xcxpd)
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Wasn't that a movie in the 1980s? I'm old enough to remember when non-comic/fantasy books were made into decent movies.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026
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I seem to recall Alec Guinness played Le Carre's chief spy, George Smiley, in at least one adaptation. Not sure if it was a theatrical movie or a TV miniseries.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at March 01, 2026 10:35 AM (xcxpd)
---
Wasn't that a movie in the 1980s? I'm old enough to remember when non-comic/fantasy books were made into decent movies.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026
***
I seem to recall Alec Guinness played Le Carre's chief spy, George Smiley, in at least one adaptation. Not sure if it was a theatrical movie or a TV miniseries.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 10:39 AM (wzUl9)
199
That shoe looks like it would be irritating as hell to wear.
Posted by: I used to have a different nic at March 01, 2026 10:39 AM (ExV1e)
200
> Of course, we could do the socialist thing and have only one book.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at March 01, 2026 09:06 AM (uQesX)
Didn't some Muzzie conqueror burn libraries on the grounds that if the books disagreed with the Quran they were heretical, while if they agreed with it they were superfluous?
Posted by: OrangeEnt at March 01, 2026 09:06 AM (uQesX)
Didn't some Muzzie conqueror burn libraries on the grounds that if the books disagreed with the Quran they were heretical, while if they agreed with it they were superfluous?
Posted by: Rodrigo Borgia at March 01, 2026 10:39 AM (IG3/x)
201
Wolf: Guiness was in Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy. I think it was a BBC miniseries.
Posted by: Trimegistus at March 01, 2026 10:40 AM (78a2H)
202
193 I'm also going to be reading LeCarre's Little Drummer Girl as I just watched the HBO miniseries and I want to compare and contrast
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at March 01, 2026 10:35 AM (xcxpd)
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Wasn't that a movie in the 1980s? I'm old enough to remember when non-comic/fantasy books were made into decent movies.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026 10:37 AM (ZOv7s)
Yep! 1982 with Klaus Kinski and Diane Keaton. I need to re-watch that version too.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at March 01, 2026 10:35 AM (xcxpd)
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Wasn't that a movie in the 1980s? I'm old enough to remember when non-comic/fantasy books were made into decent movies.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026 10:37 AM (ZOv7s)
Yep! 1982 with Klaus Kinski and Diane Keaton. I need to re-watch that version too.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at March 01, 2026 10:40 AM (xcxpd)
203
There was a time when I would have gladly worn those shoes (they are fabulous, even with the bad-luck peacock feathers), but only to an event where I would be required to do little more than sit in an elegant yet comfortable chair, and display the slit in my gown with perfectly-crossed legs.
They would suffice for the occasional foray to the ladies' room, and of course for the entrance and exit. I would rely on my escort to fetch me cocktails, and not down too many (with exit in mind).
They would serve for a few dances, carefully chosen for mood and tempo.
High heels aren't bad if they're well-balanced, and unfortunately some of the most outrageously gorgeous ones are NOT.
Back in the day when I wore them 8-10 hours a day for work, we divided heels into "good", and "sit-and-cross-your-legs".
And for the love of God, when you have to stand in them, do NOT lock your knees.
They would suffice for the occasional foray to the ladies' room, and of course for the entrance and exit. I would rely on my escort to fetch me cocktails, and not down too many (with exit in mind).
They would serve for a few dances, carefully chosen for mood and tempo.
High heels aren't bad if they're well-balanced, and unfortunately some of the most outrageously gorgeous ones are NOT.
Back in the day when I wore them 8-10 hours a day for work, we divided heels into "good", and "sit-and-cross-your-legs".
And for the love of God, when you have to stand in them, do NOT lock your knees.
Posted by: barbarausa at March 01, 2026 10:41 AM (enw9G)
204
The Secret Service owes a troll a visit
Posted by: Commissar of plenty and festive little hats at March 01, 2026 10:41 AM (Kt19C)
205
198 I'm also going to be reading LeCarre's Little Drummer Girl as I just watched the HBO miniseries and I want to compare and contrast
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at March 01, 2026 10:35 AM (xcxpd)
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Wasn't that a movie in the 1980s? I'm old enough to remember when non-comic/fantasy books were made into decent movies.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026
***
I seem to recall Alec Guinness played Le Carre's chief spy, George Smiley, in at least one adaptation. Not sure if it was a theatrical movie or a TV miniseries.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 10:39 AM (wzUl9)
Yep. There's been a couple versions. I'm a big fan of the Gary Oldman version.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at March 01, 2026 10:35 AM (xcxpd)
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Wasn't that a movie in the 1980s? I'm old enough to remember when non-comic/fantasy books were made into decent movies.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026
***
I seem to recall Alec Guinness played Le Carre's chief spy, George Smiley, in at least one adaptation. Not sure if it was a theatrical movie or a TV miniseries.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 10:39 AM (wzUl9)
Yep. There's been a couple versions. I'm a big fan of the Gary Oldman version.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at March 01, 2026 10:41 AM (xcxpd)
206
Some writers are harder than others to read. Those four have liquid, open prose that is a delight to read no matter what the subject
Posted by: Kindltot at March 01, 2026
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I found that out, oddly enough, when I had to translate Spanish-language short stories in college. The pieces we'd had in high school were simple stuff. The short stories required close attention. But some of them were a breeze to translate; others were difficult.
I'd always known that on some level about writers in English -- but it only came home to me when I had to reach for the Spanish dictionary in nearly every sentence.
Posted by: Kindltot at March 01, 2026
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I found that out, oddly enough, when I had to translate Spanish-language short stories in college. The pieces we'd had in high school were simple stuff. The short stories required close attention. But some of them were a breeze to translate; others were difficult.
I'd always known that on some level about writers in English -- but it only came home to me when I had to reach for the Spanish dictionary in nearly every sentence.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 10:41 AM (wzUl9)
207
I still think about his needle guns and wonder how workable they would be.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at March 01, 2026 10:39 AM (xcxpd)
Apparently the Soviets had one in the '70s.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Needlegun
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at March 01, 2026 10:39 AM (xcxpd)
Apparently the Soviets had one in the '70s.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Needlegun
Posted by: I used to have a different nic at March 01, 2026 10:42 AM (ExV1e)
208
I seem to recall Alec Guinness played Le Carre's chief spy, George Smiley, in at least one adaptation. Not sure if it was a theatrical movie or a TV miniseries.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 10:39 AM (wzUl9)
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There were TV adaptations of Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy and Smiley's People. Both are excellent, and Guinness owned the role to such an extent that Carre actually changed Smiley to match. In the books, (I'm told) Smiley habitually cleans his glasses with his tie. Guinness didn't that that worked for a nervous tic, and instead had him pull out a handkerchief to do it with almost ritual care. From then on, that's what Smiley did in the books as well.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 10:39 AM (wzUl9)
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There were TV adaptations of Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy and Smiley's People. Both are excellent, and Guinness owned the role to such an extent that Carre actually changed Smiley to match. In the books, (I'm told) Smiley habitually cleans his glasses with his tie. Guinness didn't that that worked for a nervous tic, and instead had him pull out a handkerchief to do it with almost ritual care. From then on, that's what Smiley did in the books as well.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026 10:42 AM (ZOv7s)
209
Maybe there's a story a ordinary, introverted Christian guy who gets caught up in circumstances, involving demon possessions.
Posted by: Northernlurker , Maple Syrup MAGA at March 01, 2026 10:42 AM (uP8XJ)
210
In addition to sci-fi, Andre Norton wrote a number of novels about Confederate soldiers in the Civil War. Nathan Bedford Forrest is depicted as he was undoubtedly regarded by his men, a charismatic figure.
Posted by: Toad-0 at March 01, 2026 10:43 AM (tllzz)
211
Didn't some Muzzie conqueror burn libraries on the grounds that if the books disagreed with the Quran they were heretical, while if they agreed with it they were superfluous?
Posted by: Rodrigo Borgia at March 01, 2026 10:39 AM (IG3/x)
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There was a "burning of the books" where all copies of the Koran that differed from the official text were destroyed. This is why the only authorized text remains one generated in (IIRC) Istanbul in 1922. Scholars have been able to find fragments of earlier versions and these are under maximum security, with locations undisclosed.
It is common for academics who specialize in critical analysis of the Koran to have alternate identities and write under pseudonyms.
Posted by: Rodrigo Borgia at March 01, 2026 10:39 AM (IG3/x)
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There was a "burning of the books" where all copies of the Koran that differed from the official text were destroyed. This is why the only authorized text remains one generated in (IIRC) Istanbul in 1922. Scholars have been able to find fragments of earlier versions and these are under maximum security, with locations undisclosed.
It is common for academics who specialize in critical analysis of the Koran to have alternate identities and write under pseudonyms.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026 10:45 AM (ZOv7s)
212
Trimegistus,
Miguel Cervantes pretty well nailed the title of that Simmons piece. And while Simmons' own page isn't up there any more, it looks like the piece was quoted in full in another discussion group.
Try:
https://tinyurl.com/3xffanht
Miguel Cervantes pretty well nailed the title of that Simmons piece. And while Simmons' own page isn't up there any more, it looks like the piece was quoted in full in another discussion group.
Try:
https://tinyurl.com/3xffanht
Posted by: Just Some Guy at March 01, 2026 10:45 AM (q3u5l)
213
Watched Damn the Defiant yesterday afternoon
Forgot how star casted it is with Alex Guinness as the Capt
Forgot how star casted it is with Alex Guinness as the Capt
Posted by: Skip at March 01, 2026 10:46 AM (Ia/+0)
214
There were TV adaptations of Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy and Smiley's People. Both are excellent, and Guinness owned the role to such an extent that Carre actually changed Smiley to match. In the books, (I'm told) Smiley habitually cleans his glasses with his tie. Guinness didn't that that worked for a nervous tic, and instead had him pull out a handkerchief to do it with almost ritual care. From then on, that's what Smiley did in the books as well.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026
***
Smiley goes back a long ways. I think he is the lead in Le Carre's first novel, Call for the Dead, ca. 1962; and he's mentioned (not sure if he appears) in The Spy Who Came In From the Cold.
Aside from those two, for different reasons, I've never been a fan of Le Carre's stuff. Same with Len Deighton. I tried reading Funeral in Berlin and simply could not follow what the lead spy, the film role called "Harry Palmer" and played by Michael Caine, was doing.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026
***
Smiley goes back a long ways. I think he is the lead in Le Carre's first novel, Call for the Dead, ca. 1962; and he's mentioned (not sure if he appears) in The Spy Who Came In From the Cold.
Aside from those two, for different reasons, I've never been a fan of Le Carre's stuff. Same with Len Deighton. I tried reading Funeral in Berlin and simply could not follow what the lead spy, the film role called "Harry Palmer" and played by Michael Caine, was doing.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 10:46 AM (wzUl9)
215
199 That shoe looks like it would be irritating as hell to wear.
Posted by: I used to have a different nic at March 01, 2026 10:39 AM (ExV1e)
Definitely not a walking around shoe. Maybe a lying down shoe.
Posted by: I used to have a different nic at March 01, 2026 10:39 AM (ExV1e)
Definitely not a walking around shoe. Maybe a lying down shoe.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at March 01, 2026 10:47 AM (h7ZuX)
216
There was a "burning of the books" where all copies of the Koran that differed from the official text were destroyed. This is why the only authorized text remains one generated in (IIRC) Istanbul in 1922. Scholars have been able to find fragments of earlier versions and these are under maximum security, with locations undisclosed.
The best one is the one which starts with "this is work of fiction, any similarity to persons or events, living or dead, is unintended and coincidental".
The best one is the one which starts with "this is work of fiction, any similarity to persons or events, living or dead, is unintended and coincidental".
Posted by: I used to have a different nic at March 01, 2026 10:47 AM (ExV1e)
217
155 My humble abode is the black hole of books. Once purchased, or brought in here, my bibliomania is so strong no books can escape. I even have some of my old college textbooks.
Posted by: Cow Demon at March 01, 2026 10:12 AM (hJH5n)
Same. My library is my joy. A book/author has to seriously piss me off to be ejected.
Posted by: Cow Demon at March 01, 2026 10:12 AM (hJH5n)
Same. My library is my joy. A book/author has to seriously piss me off to be ejected.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at March 01, 2026 10:48 AM (xcxpd)
218
I know this is the book thread and the usual political talk us not for this post. But I'm watching face the nation for the first time and wtf is wrong with Margaret Brennan? She comes off as a bitchy angry wife. Like marcy Darcy from married with children.
Ok had to get that off my chest. Rant off.
Ok had to get that off my chest. Rant off.
Posted by: Cuthbert the Witless at March 01, 2026 10:48 AM (i0Hi3)
219
200
Didn't some Muzzie conqueror burn libraries on the grounds that if the books disagreed with the Quran they were heretical, while if they agreed with it they were superfluous?
Posted by: Rodrigo Borgia at March 01, 2026 10:39 AM (IG3/x)
It's not often remarked upon, but I believe the first Chinese emperor actually one-upped that action. He burned the books, and also tried to burn all the scholars that wrote the books! To make extra sure that nothing from before survived. Didn't work out as completely as he had hoped, but I guess he deserves some credit (and blame) for trying.
Didn't some Muzzie conqueror burn libraries on the grounds that if the books disagreed with the Quran they were heretical, while if they agreed with it they were superfluous?
Posted by: Rodrigo Borgia at March 01, 2026 10:39 AM (IG3/x)
It's not often remarked upon, but I believe the first Chinese emperor actually one-upped that action. He burned the books, and also tried to burn all the scholars that wrote the books! To make extra sure that nothing from before survived. Didn't work out as completely as he had hoped, but I guess he deserves some credit (and blame) for trying.
Posted by: Castle Guy at March 01, 2026 10:49 AM (Lhaco)
220
There were TV adaptations of Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy and Smiley's People. Both are excellent, and Guinness owned the role to such an extent that Carre actually changed Smiley to match. In the books, (I'm told) Smiley habitually cleans his glasses with his tie. Guinness didn't that that worked for a nervous tic, and instead had him pull out a handkerchief to do it with almost ritual care. From then on, that's what Smiley did in the books as well.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd
Love that version. Guinness was wonderful as Smiley. Little bit of trivia: a young Patrick Stewart played Karla.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd
Love that version. Guinness was wonderful as Smiley. Little bit of trivia: a young Patrick Stewart played Karla.
Posted by: Tuna at March 01, 2026 10:49 AM (lJ0H4)
221
There was an earlier "burning of the books" in Chinese history as well. The First Emperor ordered all books burned, but obviously failed.
And with that, I'm off to Mass.
And with that, I'm off to Mass.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at March 01, 2026 10:49 AM (ZOv7s)
222
207 I still think about his needle guns and wonder how workable they would be.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at March 01, 2026 10:39 AM (xcxpd)
Apparently the Soviets had one in the '70s.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Needlegun
Posted by: I used to have a different nic at March 01, 2026 10:42 AM (ExV1e)
Interesting. I see a lot of Kalashnikov in that. Love to try one out.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at March 01, 2026 10:39 AM (xcxpd)
Apparently the Soviets had one in the '70s.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Needlegun
Posted by: I used to have a different nic at March 01, 2026 10:42 AM (ExV1e)
Interesting. I see a lot of Kalashnikov in that. Love to try one out.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at March 01, 2026 10:50 AM (xcxpd)
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Damn It Feels Good to Be a Trumpster! at March 01, 2026 10:50 AM (FXNzP)
224
I've liked Peter Clines since "The Fold", and right now I'm reading his newest, also a time/space anomaly story, "God's Junk Drawer".
Forty years ago, little Billy Gather went on a camping and rafting trip with his father and sister. They disappeared and were presumed to have drowned. Five years later Billy reappeared in Thailand spinning a story of a prehistoric valley with dinosaurs, aliens, robots, and cavemen. Billy becomes the butt of jokes and disappears from the public eye.
Years later Billy, now Professor Noah Barnes, has figured out how to activate the wormhole he believes transported him to the valley, but he accidentally takes some of his grad students with him.
The cool thing about this phenomenon is that it's a fixed point out in space that the Earth sometimes travels through on its orbit, so objects, people, and creatures from various eras have been zapped to the valley, its endpoint.
Forty years ago, little Billy Gather went on a camping and rafting trip with his father and sister. They disappeared and were presumed to have drowned. Five years later Billy reappeared in Thailand spinning a story of a prehistoric valley with dinosaurs, aliens, robots, and cavemen. Billy becomes the butt of jokes and disappears from the public eye.
Years later Billy, now Professor Noah Barnes, has figured out how to activate the wormhole he believes transported him to the valley, but he accidentally takes some of his grad students with him.
The cool thing about this phenomenon is that it's a fixed point out in space that the Earth sometimes travels through on its orbit, so objects, people, and creatures from various eras have been zapped to the valley, its endpoint.
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes. at March 01, 2026 10:51 AM (kpS4V)
225
I normally don't run down authors since a) tastes vary, and b) running down books is a negative thing that discourages readers, however I was reading a book on the development of Indo-European languages and cultures called The Horse, the Wheel, and Language by David Anthony's (which I loved outside of the pots) and I heard an interview by another fiction author who was publishing a book based in the era of early horse domestication and the spread of that culture from the Pontic steppes, which I was excited by since it promised to flesh out the early cultures . . . And it was Beowulf. The book was a pastiche of Beowulf and Grendel and his Mum.
I got halfway through it, and got tired.
I really suggest everyone read David Anthony's book The Horse, the Wheel, and Language if you are interested in the development of IE language and culture. The first part is about linguistics, the second is archology, and the third is historical. I first ran across papers from him in Scientific American in the 90's when he published about early horse domestication and evidence of bit-wear on horses' teeth
I got halfway through it, and got tired.
I really suggest everyone read David Anthony's book The Horse, the Wheel, and Language if you are interested in the development of IE language and culture. The first part is about linguistics, the second is archology, and the third is historical. I first ran across papers from him in Scientific American in the 90's when he published about early horse domestication and evidence of bit-wear on horses' teeth
Posted by: Kindltot at March 01, 2026 10:53 AM (rbvCR)
226
I've liked Peter Clines since "The Fold", and right now I'm reading his newest, also a time/space anomaly story, "God's Junk Drawer".
Forty years ago, little Billy Gather went on a camping and rafting trip with his father and sister. They disappeared and were presumed to have drowned. Five years later Billy reappeared in Thailand spinning a story of a prehistoric valley with dinosaurs, aliens, robots, and cavemen. . . . Years later Billy, now Professor Noah Barnes, has figured out how to activate the wormhole he believes transported him to the valley, but he accidentally takes some of his grad students with him.
The cool thing about this phenomenon is that it's a fixed point out in space that the Earth sometimes travels through on its orbit, so objects, people, and creatures from various eras have been zapped to the valley, its endpoint.
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes. at March 01, 2026
***
A grand idea!
Forty years ago, little Billy Gather went on a camping and rafting trip with his father and sister. They disappeared and were presumed to have drowned. Five years later Billy reappeared in Thailand spinning a story of a prehistoric valley with dinosaurs, aliens, robots, and cavemen. . . . Years later Billy, now Professor Noah Barnes, has figured out how to activate the wormhole he believes transported him to the valley, but he accidentally takes some of his grad students with him.
The cool thing about this phenomenon is that it's a fixed point out in space that the Earth sometimes travels through on its orbit, so objects, people, and creatures from various eras have been zapped to the valley, its endpoint.
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes. at March 01, 2026
***
A grand idea!
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at March 01, 2026 10:54 AM (wzUl9)
227
They did the job apparently ... (https://www.kxan.com article) ... as in kept it from being worse by shooting the guy.
Posted by: Adriane the Lens Cap Covered Camera Photography Critic . . . at March 01, 2026 10:27 AM (3ZUWJ)
Three people is a "mass shooting"? Oh yeah, this is in Austin. Also, it's bad enough that cops are called "law enforcement officials". Now they are called "public safety officials". Sheesh.
They did the job apparently ... (https://www.kxan.com article) ... as in kept it from being worse by shooting the guy.
Posted by: Adriane the Lens Cap Covered Camera Photography Critic . . . at March 01, 2026 10:27 AM (3ZUWJ)
Three people is a "mass shooting"? Oh yeah, this is in Austin. Also, it's bad enough that cops are called "law enforcement officials". Now they are called "public safety officials". Sheesh.
Posted by: Cow Demon at March 01, 2026 10:54 AM (hJH5n)
228
Started The Democrats Hate America by Mark Levin. I read it in his voice.
Posted by: Reforger at March 01, 2026 10:54 AM (gvODy)
229
Love that version. Guinness was wonderful as Smiley. Little bit of trivia: a young Patrick Stewart played Karla.
Posted by: Tuna at March 01, 2026 10:49 AM (lJ0H4)
Patrick Stewart was young?
Love that version. Guinness was wonderful as Smiley. Little bit of trivia: a young Patrick Stewart played Karla.
Posted by: Tuna at March 01, 2026 10:49 AM (lJ0H4)
Patrick Stewart was young?
Posted by: Cow Demon at March 01, 2026 10:56 AM (hJH5n)
230
Didn't some Muzzie conqueror burn libraries on the grounds that if the books disagreed with the Quran they were heretical, while if they agreed with it they were superfluous?
Posted by: Rodrigo Borgia at March 01, 2026 10:39 AM (IG3/x)
Dunno, but it's probably something a socialist would do too.
Rats. Gotta go somewhere, hope to be back before the end of the thread. If not, thanks for the effort MP! (who's gone already and won't see this)
Posted by: Rodrigo Borgia at March 01, 2026 10:39 AM (IG3/x)
Dunno, but it's probably something a socialist would do too.
Rats. Gotta go somewhere, hope to be back before the end of the thread. If not, thanks for the effort MP! (who's gone already and won't see this)
Posted by: OrangeEnt at March 01, 2026 10:56 AM (uQesX)
231
Started The Democrats Hate America by Mark Levin. I read it in his voice.
Posted by: Reforger at March 01, 2026 10:54 AM (gvODy)
Yikes.
Reminds of when George Costanza bought an audio book to help him through something dry, and the voice sounded just like him.
Posted by: Reforger at March 01, 2026 10:54 AM (gvODy)
Yikes.
Reminds of when George Costanza bought an audio book to help him through something dry, and the voice sounded just like him.
Posted by: Pug Mahon, aka Agent Frank at March 01, 2026 10:57 AM (0aYVJ)
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Damn It Feels Good to Be a Trumpster! at March 01, 2026 10:57 AM (FXNzP)
233
Three people is a "mass shooting"?
Three dead. Fourteen injured. Unstated how many of those fourteen were shot but three of them are in critical condition so it's more than zero.
Three dead. Fourteen injured. Unstated how many of those fourteen were shot but three of them are in critical condition so it's more than zero.
Posted by: I used to have a different nic at March 01, 2026 10:58 AM (ExV1e)
234
Hey dere MP4! Congratulations!
Yeah, pre-dawn today I had book-sick with my kindle ... nothing that I wanted to re-read, and all the new offerings did not excite.
ended up reading something from Gutenberg on my phone, to accompany breakfast.
(I, too, cannot eat without something to read)
Yeah, pre-dawn today I had book-sick with my kindle ... nothing that I wanted to re-read, and all the new offerings did not excite.
ended up reading something from Gutenberg on my phone, to accompany breakfast.
(I, too, cannot eat without something to read)
Posted by: sock_rat_eez at March 01, 2026 10:58 AM (MIIRH)
235
Sometimes I just want something familiar and soothing to read and have a pool to pick from. Matt Helm, especially the later ones, Hound of the Baskervilles, even some of those silly MASH Goes to [wherever]. Nothing that's going to send me down rabbit holes or go into deep contemplation. Nero Wolfe books would be appropriate but can be 'dangerous' when Wolfe mentions something unusual that gets me thinking. Uh-oh!
Oddly, perhaps, traditional ballad poetry fits the bill. Chesterton's Ballad of the White Horse is an example. There is something about the meter, pacing, and alliteration that sucks me in and I lose myself in the writing.
Oddly, perhaps, traditional ballad poetry fits the bill. Chesterton's Ballad of the White Horse is an example. There is something about the meter, pacing, and alliteration that sucks me in and I lose myself in the writing.
Posted by: JTB at March 01, 2026 10:58 AM (yTvNw)
236
203 There was a time when I would have gladly worn those shoes (they are fabulous, even with the bad-luck peacock feathers), but only to an event where I would be required to do little more than sit in an elegant yet comfortable chair, and display the slit in my gown with perfectly-crossed legs.
They would suffice for the occasional foray to the ladies' room, and of course for the entrance and exit. I would rely on my escort to fetch me cocktails, and not down too many (with exit in mind).
They would serve for a few dances, carefully chosen for mood and tempo.
High heels aren't bad if they're well-balanced, and unfortunately some of the most outrageously gorgeous ones are NOT.
Back in the day when I wore them 8-10 hours a day for work, we divided heels into "good", and "sit-and-cross-your-legs".
And for the love of God, when you have to stand in them, do NOT lock your knees.
Posted by: barbarausa at March 01, 2026 10:41 AM (enw9G)
I can wear high heels anywhere, even on cobblestones!
They would suffice for the occasional foray to the ladies' room, and of course for the entrance and exit. I would rely on my escort to fetch me cocktails, and not down too many (with exit in mind).
They would serve for a few dances, carefully chosen for mood and tempo.
High heels aren't bad if they're well-balanced, and unfortunately some of the most outrageously gorgeous ones are NOT.
Back in the day when I wore them 8-10 hours a day for work, we divided heels into "good", and "sit-and-cross-your-legs".
And for the love of God, when you have to stand in them, do NOT lock your knees.
Posted by: barbarausa at March 01, 2026 10:41 AM (enw9G)
I can wear high heels anywhere, even on cobblestones!
Posted by: Queen Letizia at March 01, 2026 10:59 AM (hJH5n)
237
"Book sick" -- I like it. That's why when I find a "new" author (new to me), I'm as happy as a clam at high tide, and almost sorrowful when it's over. Must be the endorphin rush of reading something really good. Just finished Nate van Coops' latest "Archangel Aviation Thriller", Tropic Envy, and that was over waaayyy too soon. And now I have to find something else on the virtual book shelves. Or maybe pull an old favorite off the shelves.
Posted by: tankascribe at March 01, 2026 10:59 AM (NtoJk)
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