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Sunday Morning Book Thread: 01/07/2018
Day had broken cold and grey, exceedingly cold and grey, when the man turned aside from the main Yukon trail and climbed the high earth-bank, where a dim and little-traveled trail led eastward through the fat spruce timberland. It was a steep bank, and he paused for breath at the top, excusing the act to himself by looking at his watch. It was nine o'clock. There was no sun nor hint of sun, though there was not a cloud in the sky. It was a clear day, and yet there seemed an intangible pall over the face of things, a subtle gloom that made the day dark, and that was due to the absence of sun. This fact did not worry the man. He was used to the lack of sun. It had been days since he had seen the sun, and he knew that a few more days must pass before that cheerful orb, due south, would just peep above the sky-line and dip immediately from view.
In my youth I loved Jack London, and discovered during college that he had bought land just an hour or so away from school, and had built a huge home he called -- of course -- Wolf House, now part of Jack London State Park. It burned down just before it was completed, and he died soon after...too young I think. But, much of his writing is flavored by an insane mix of socialism and social Darwinism, and some of it is simply unreadable. Yet...his short stories are wonderful, and some of his long form work is a delight, especially for the YA readers in the house. "White Fang" and "The Call Of The Wild" are great fun; they certainly introduced me to a strange new world. "The Sea Wolf" may be his best book, although it too is clouded by London's odd view of the world. Regardless, it is good reading.
Well Lauren’s a blithering idiot then, isn’t she? pic.twitter.com/2uAAp87TTK
— Pete Otway (@PeteOtway) December 31, 2017
From commenter "Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing," a request:
I was hoping you could mention my new short story, Thirteen Moons, on the Sunday book thread: Thirteen Moons: A Supernatural Story Starring Theda Bara It takes place in Hollywood in 1935. Theda Bara was once the most famous silent star in the world, but now she's just an ordinary housewife. But because of her past, she's asked to track down a copy of Thirteen Moons, a silent movie that no one has seen for almost 20 years. It turns out that finding the movie is the easy part - coming back alive will be the problem. Thanks,
MP4
Sounds like fun! I'm a sucker for short stories....
And another from the mailbag, this one from commenter...uh...Mark, because that's the first name of the author!
I'd like to pitch my latest to the morons. "Walden Shock" is a 21st version of "Walden Two", minus the collectivism, adding some Calvin Coolidge, with strong hints of the foundational strength of the United States Constitution. Stepping up to the bridge to the future that the Singularity presents, it is an optimistic and family oriented story. When you have cowboys, guns, and robots in West Texas, it don't get no better! From the blurb: The Singularity will bring about the End of History. Everything we know or discover about the universe will be impacted. People are seriously wondering if human society will be the beneficiary. Every culture in the modern world has produced dreamers that perceive a way to a Utopian society. Almost without exception, they preach a world devoid of love, freedom or initiative. Walden Shock illustrates a community stepping into the future of artificial intelligence where human ingenuity and family cohesion are the cornerstones of society. You will be stimulated and entertained as the singularity arrives in West Texas with guns, cowboys and robots.
Thanks,
mark
One of the many reasons I have pretty much stopped reading the NY Times book reviews (and many others) is that seemingly every single one in recent memory has had a political component to it. Yes, I get it, politics is downstream of culture, but every once and a while I would like to read some literary criticism that isn't chock full of the writer's political philosophy, and chock full of criticism of my political philosophy. Obviously there is a certain pomposity involved with being a literary critic, but more and more they simply validate the truism that "Those who can write, write. Those who can't write, write reviews." What I want is an honest evaluation and personal opinion of the quality of the writing, the plausibility of the plot, the quality of the dialogue, and an overall impression of the book. What I don't want is for the reviewer to insert his politics into the review. If I want political commentary, I will look for it. But I sure as shit don't want to hear about the reviewer's opinion of conservative political philosophy and get snide comments about Donald Trump along with an evaluation of the dialogue. Do that, and I will studiously ignore you.
Comments
(Jump to bottom of comments)1
Morning, Horde!
Posted by: Hawkpilot at January 07, 2018 08:55 AM (fqHZs)
2
Echo... echo...
Posted by: Hawkpilot at January 07, 2018 08:55 AM (fqHZs)
3
Books!
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at January 07, 2018 08:56 AM (qJtVm)
4
Corgis...
Posted by: Hawkpilot at January 07, 2018 08:56 AM (fqHZs)
5
Loved Islands in the Stream. Actually 3 books (stories) in one. Very sad but great father son stories.
Posted by: rhennigantx at January 07, 2018 08:57 AM (BtQd4)
6
Tolle Lege
Finished Col John Elting's Swords Around a Thrown so starting Brian Kilmeade's Andrew Jackson and the Miracle of New Orleans
Finished Col John Elting's Swords Around a Thrown so starting Brian Kilmeade's Andrew Jackson and the Miracle of New Orleans
Posted by: Skip at January 07, 2018 08:57 AM (aC6Sd)
7
Does that view have a ha-ha?
Posted by: jakee308 at January 07, 2018 08:57 AM (yT99I)
8
Currently reading the Duratech i4 rebuild manual and AOS book thread. More updates later!
Posted by: freaked at January 07, 2018 08:57 AM (UdKB7)
9
People must be out chopping wood or making hobo jerky.
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at January 07, 2018 09:01 AM (qJtVm)
10
Speaking of Jack London, I remember a story about his first job when he was a kid he was hired to shovel coal on a train (work train?) and he worked like a demon for a few weeks, covering his blistered hands with rags and trying very hard to keep up and the train running before he found out the man who hired him had hired him to do a 2 man job and was pocketing the other half of the pay that Jack was getting and laughing to his friends at the work site about it behind Jack's back.
That was how he got his hate on for "Capitalism".
Of course, he was nutty anyways.
That was how he got his hate on for "Capitalism".
Of course, he was nutty anyways.
Posted by: Hairyback Guy at January 07, 2018 09:02 AM (EoRCO)
11
I always dreamed of having a book nook, bigger than bay window with padded seating inside so it would in detail look like the top picture but big enough you could lay out in it.
Posted by: Skip at January 07, 2018 09:02 AM (aC6Sd)
12
I was at Ft Wainwright (Fairbanks) for two winters. I re-read "To Build A Fire" while sweating on a beach.
Posted by: fluffy at January 07, 2018 09:02 AM (cHbmY)
13
'And if you haven't read Jack London's wonderful short story, "To Build A Fire," you should. Immediately! '
I don't know about that. That story will make you shiver reading it in the Summer. You could die reading it in this cold.
I don't know about that. That story will make you shiver reading it in the Summer. You could die reading it in this cold.
Posted by: freaked at January 07, 2018 09:04 AM (UdKB7)
14
"White Fang" had a profound impact on me as a young boy. In the dog fighting scene, London describes the bluster and posturing that the dogs go through before the actual fight. They have to work themselves up to it, you see; growling and snarling, trying to intimidate the other animal.
White Fang didn't do that. When he was put into the ring, White Fang went right for the throat and killed the other dog.
That attitude has brought me a lot of trouble whenever I'm challenged with bluster and a menacing demeanor. I have to walk away from it, and everyone mistakes my unwillingness to get involved in the preliminary posturing as something else.
Excuse me while I go read the rest of the post.
"White Fang" had a profound impact on me as a young boy. In the dog fighting scene, London describes the bluster and posturing that the dogs go through before the actual fight. They have to work themselves up to it, you see; growling and snarling, trying to intimidate the other animal.
White Fang didn't do that. When he was put into the ring, White Fang went right for the throat and killed the other dog.
That attitude has brought me a lot of trouble whenever I'm challenged with bluster and a menacing demeanor. I have to walk away from it, and everyone mistakes my unwillingness to get involved in the preliminary posturing as something else.
Excuse me while I go read the rest of the post.
Posted by: Skandia Recluse at January 07, 2018 09:04 AM (GroCc)
15
Wifey and i are downsizing, now that kids have flown. one of the hardest parts is sifting through books, deciding what to give away, what to keep. a lifetime of books - not just my own, but ones i inherited from 1-2 generations of family. each book has to be pondered. slow process. Do i really need to keep a 1953 Encyclopedia Britannica? No. The book compilation of official U.S. Navy at War for WWII, inscribed by Ernest J. King (whom my father worked for)? Yes. Wife's 1930's book on Jenny Churchill? yes. And so it goes...
Posted by: gorillaexchange, formerly of goats at January 07, 2018 09:07 AM (YFnq5)
16
I've been reading November's Fury, The Deadly Great Lakes Hurricane of 1913. It's an easy read and very interesting.
Posted by: Infidel at January 07, 2018 09:08 AM (EGFUD)
17
When I was a kid I had a GSD named Buck. Call of the Wild is one of the first real, not kiddie, books I remember reading.
Posted by: freaked at January 07, 2018 09:09 AM (UdKB7)
18
Freezing my ass off! I can't take it anymore! Not even the Klondike was as bad as this.
Posted by: Jack London at January 07, 2018 09:10 AM (/qEW2)
19
Reading 'Nightrunners of Bengal' by John Masters. A historical novel set during 1857 India during what the British would call a mutiny among some units of the Indian Army. Later Indian nationalists would call it the first national uprising. Masters had a great love of India and would serve in the British Army and later the Indian Army during WW2 where he fought in the Middle East and Burma. He has written about 2 dozen books.
The real mutiny.
https://tinyurl.com/mcqtae
The real mutiny.
https://tinyurl.com/mcqtae
Posted by: Jake Holenhead at January 07, 2018 09:10 AM (Kfmqy)
Posted by: Anon a mouse at January 07, 2018 09:11 AM (7LY+6)
21
Think of the constant mention of Trump in everything including recipes for soup as the left messaging one another. They are trying to pluck u[ their spirits in light of another seven hard years ahead.
Posted by: Jerry Jay Carroll at January 07, 2018 09:11 AM (SYCeT)
22
"White Fang" and "The Call Of The Wild" are great fun; they certainly introduced me to a strange new world.
*******
There's No Place Like Nome - a limerick
The arctic horizon is shimmery
And the low midnight sun oh so glimmery
Jack London's wintry tales
Tell of Yukon Bill's travails
And looking back, White Fang's for the memories.
*******
There's No Place Like Nome - a limerick
The arctic horizon is shimmery
And the low midnight sun oh so glimmery
Jack London's wintry tales
Tell of Yukon Bill's travails
And looking back, White Fang's for the memories.
Posted by: Muldoon at January 07, 2018 09:12 AM (wPiJc)
23
These are a hoot. Librarian and library themed covers for pulp books and magazines. Click the arrow at upper right.
https://tinyurl.com/l94nrqe
https://tinyurl.com/l94nrqe
Posted by: Jake Holenhead at January 07, 2018 09:13 AM (Kfmqy)
24
I just finished the first volume of Shelby Foote's 3-volume Civil War. I've put it off because it's such a doorstop. That was a mistake. It's even better than its hype. I'm going to order the full set in hardback because it's one of those works I just want be able to pick up when the mood strikes, which I expect will be often.
Posted by: Pep at January 07, 2018 09:13 AM (LAe3v)
25
I've been reading seed catalogs and Georgette Heyer books. Perfect entertainment for when you have a cold and it's 0 degrees out.
On the writing front, I have a few tweaks to the cover of A Kingdom of Glass, then the print version should be available via Createspace. And my latest project- regency romance in outer space- is progressing steadily.
On the writing front, I have a few tweaks to the cover of A Kingdom of Glass, then the print version should be available via Createspace. And my latest project- regency romance in outer space- is progressing steadily.
Posted by: right wing yankee at January 07, 2018 09:14 AM (obZ4W)
26
For God's sake, put down whatever book you're reading and turn on The Gorilla Channel!
Posted by: FIIGMO at January 07, 2018 09:14 AM (E+qJE)
27
Think of the constant mention of Trump in everything including recipes for soup"
What's funny is that they seem to think that's what we on the right did during the previous administration...
What's funny is that they seem to think that's what we on the right did during the previous administration...
Posted by: Anon a mouse at January 07, 2018 09:15 AM (7LY+6)
28
This is the weekend to snuggle up with a good book, a warm blanket, a glass of something warming, and contemplate nature from the inside
I wish, but it has been snowing here for #twoweeks, less than an inch every twelve hours, except for the occasional 1 to 3 inches, and the one or two 3 to five inches of accumulation.
I've put off clearing the drive, waiting for it to stop snowing, and it just ... won't ... stop. So I have two feet of snow in the drive and the county just sent the road grader out to push the snow banks back and pushed a four foot wall of snow across the end of my driveway. The roads, by the way , are [expletive deleted] and have been for the #twoweeks because of the extreme cold temperatures.
If I had managed my food pantry better, I could sit here for another #twoweeks, until I need propane, but I'm running low on flour and powdered milk which is what I've been living on for the last #twomonths or so.
Choices, bad choices, story of my life, like the guy in London's "to make a fire" story. Jack London's tales of the Great White North aren't fiction; they are real life for me; an adventure every day.
I wish, but it has been snowing here for #twoweeks, less than an inch every twelve hours, except for the occasional 1 to 3 inches, and the one or two 3 to five inches of accumulation.
I've put off clearing the drive, waiting for it to stop snowing, and it just ... won't ... stop. So I have two feet of snow in the drive and the county just sent the road grader out to push the snow banks back and pushed a four foot wall of snow across the end of my driveway. The roads, by the way , are [expletive deleted] and have been for the #twoweeks because of the extreme cold temperatures.
If I had managed my food pantry better, I could sit here for another #twoweeks, until I need propane, but I'm running low on flour and powdered milk which is what I've been living on for the last #twomonths or so.
Choices, bad choices, story of my life, like the guy in London's "to make a fire" story. Jack London's tales of the Great White North aren't fiction; they are real life for me; an adventure every day.
Posted by: Skandia Recluse at January 07, 2018 09:16 AM (GroCc)
29
I read The Werewolf of Bamberg by Oliver Potzsch. This is the fourth book in the Hangman's Daughter series. Hangman Jacob Kuisl and his family travel to Bamberg to attend Jacob's brother's wedding. It's 1668, forty years after the witch trials killed hundreds in Bamberg. Now a werewolf is loose in and around Bamberg and it is up to the Kuisl clan to stop it before panic sets in and a new round of senseless torture and killing begins. Potzsch is a meticulous researcher, and the story is based on werewolf trials in this area at this time.
I also read Without You, There Is No Us: My Time With the Sons of North Korea's Elite by Suki Kim. Christian missionaries have established a college in North Korea (who knew?) called Pyongyang University of Science and Technology. During the summer and fall terms of 2011, journalist Suki Kim pretends to be a missionary, and along with others, goes to PUST to teach English. The book gives some insight into the life and thought of North Korea's young elite. Some of the book seems repetitious only because life at the university is such. Students are not allowed to leave the guarded compound and teachers only leave once a week accompanied by their minders. Many topics are forbidden to be discussed with their students which causes great stress among both teachers and students having to self-censor every word they say. An interesting read.
I also read Without You, There Is No Us: My Time With the Sons of North Korea's Elite by Suki Kim. Christian missionaries have established a college in North Korea (who knew?) called Pyongyang University of Science and Technology. During the summer and fall terms of 2011, journalist Suki Kim pretends to be a missionary, and along with others, goes to PUST to teach English. The book gives some insight into the life and thought of North Korea's young elite. Some of the book seems repetitious only because life at the university is such. Students are not allowed to leave the guarded compound and teachers only leave once a week accompanied by their minders. Many topics are forbidden to be discussed with their students which causes great stress among both teachers and students having to self-censor every word they say. An interesting read.
Posted by: Zoltan at January 07, 2018 09:18 AM (T8WeQ)
Posted by: freaked at January 07, 2018 09:19 AM (UdKB7)
31
Sounds like fun! I'm a sucker for short stories....
So am I and don't understand the disdain in which a lot of readers hold them.
So am I and don't understand the disdain in which a lot of readers hold them.
Posted by: Captain Hate at January 07, 2018 09:20 AM (y7DUB)
32
About ten years ago, friends from England were visiting on their way home from Hong Kong. They had entertained me so I took them on a tour of California, including the Central Valley, then in its glory before the water was shut off, Yosemite where they saw a bear, then to Jack London State Park. They had never heard of him. We hiked down to the ruins of Wolf House and I bought some of his books for them. When we were in Oakland, my son took them to a bar with a sloping floor that had survived the 1906 earthquake. London was an "Oyster Pirate" when the Bay had oyster beds and the authorities finally hired him as an "oyster policeman" to keep out the other pirates.
Posted by: Mike K at January 07, 2018 09:21 AM (s170V)
33
Life imitating Art . Back aways I was up in the Tetons in January , warming up daytimes to single digits , working on the MSR to get a nice blue flame and as I finally did, a snow blob fell on the stove and put it out . Recognizing what had happened I fell backwards laughing in cosmic glee : Life imitating Art
Posted by: jay hoenemeyer at January 07, 2018 09:21 AM (YrDFq)
34
Oh if you like a bit of pre-code supernatural horror wrapped up in a bit of mystery, please go read Thirteen Moons. Tis a quick but interesting read.
Posted by: Anna Puma (HQCaR) at January 07, 2018 09:22 AM (Qk41M)
Posted by: Anon a mouse at January 07, 2018 09:22 AM (7LY+6)
36
I always liked "The Cremation of Sam McGee" by Robert Service.
'Cause you can't spell Yukon without yuk!
'Cause you can't spell Yukon without yuk!
Posted by: Muldoon at January 07, 2018 09:22 AM (wPiJc)
37
Mike - I have BEEN to that bar! Way back, when I was attending a course in Alameda. The floor was unfinished and the tiny place had ladies' undergarments tacked up on the ceiling...... my kind of place.
Posted by: gorillaexchange, formerly of goats at January 07, 2018 09:23 AM (YFnq5)
38
I have yet to read a paragraph of Shelby Foot's works, something keeps me away like a cross to a vampire.
Posted by: Skip at January 07, 2018 09:23 AM (aC6Sd)
39
To Build a Fire always bugged me even as a kid.
I have know folks dumber then their dogs and most of the time it is the dog that suffers for it.
I have know folks dumber then their dogs and most of the time it is the dog that suffers for it.
Posted by: Big V at January 07, 2018 09:26 AM (MVE/7)
40
Can I guess Pete Otway's real name is Joseph Pete Otway?
Posted by: Skip at January 07, 2018 09:26 AM (aC6Sd)
41
Good morning Fellow Book Threadists. Hope everyone had a better week than I did. Due to several factors my head felt like it was filled with cold, congealed gruel. This meant easy, familiar reading.
A couple of Lensman and Skylark of Space stories by 'Doc' Smith. First read these in 3rd grade. They never fail to please.
A shit ton (official term of the American Library Association) of back issues of Backwoodsman magazines. Picking through the many articles let me find some that matched my condition.
A couple of Lensman and Skylark of Space stories by 'Doc' Smith. First read these in 3rd grade. They never fail to please.
A shit ton (official term of the American Library Association) of back issues of Backwoodsman magazines. Picking through the many articles let me find some that matched my condition.
Posted by: JTB at January 07, 2018 09:27 AM (V+03K)
Posted by: Soothsayer -- Fake Commenter at January 07, 2018 09:29 AM (v1jzq)
43
38 ... Skip, If you enjoyed the various history books you've listed, then you should love reading Shelby Foote.
Posted by: JTB at January 07, 2018 09:30 AM (V+03K)
Posted by: freaked at January 07, 2018 09:31 AM (UdKB7)
45
"....but every once and a while I would like to read some literary criticism that isn't chock full of the writer's political philosophy, and chock full of criticism of my political philosophy."
I think it's the nature of the beast. That is, they don't analyze the writing. Instead they analyze the writer through the writing and, to protect themselves from the same criticisms they are flinging, they virtue signal in their review. In their little minds they are reviewing themselves reviewing the writer through the review. It's literary inception.
I think it's the nature of the beast. That is, they don't analyze the writing. Instead they analyze the writer through the writing and, to protect themselves from the same criticisms they are flinging, they virtue signal in their review. In their little minds they are reviewing themselves reviewing the writer through the review. It's literary inception.
Posted by: inflammable at January 07, 2018 09:31 AM (aKxP+)
46
Lensman! Way underrated series!
Posted by: Tom Servo at January 07, 2018 09:32 AM (V2Yro)
47
I didn't want to be President but the bookies egged me on.Gonna rename it the Wolf House...gorilla free areas available.
Posted by: saf at January 07, 2018 09:33 AM (cS/ge)
48
I've started some serious reading about Winston Churchill. It's going to take many years.
As interesting discovery is whie I enjoy books about the man, I greatly prefer to read his own writing.
As interesting discovery is whie I enjoy books about the man, I greatly prefer to read his own writing.
Posted by: JTB at January 07, 2018 09:35 AM (V+03K)
49
31 Sounds like fun! I'm a sucker for short stories....
So am I and don't understand the disdain in which a lot of readers hold them.
Posted by: Captain Hate at January 07, 2018 09:20 AM (y7DUB)
===
Me too. Especially Tom Wolfe.
I have been slogging through a Jerry Pournelle old-timey short story sci fi book some moron recommended on this thread over a year ago...not very good.
So am I and don't understand the disdain in which a lot of readers hold them.
Posted by: Captain Hate at January 07, 2018 09:20 AM (y7DUB)
===
Me too. Especially Tom Wolfe.
I have been slogging through a Jerry Pournelle old-timey short story sci fi book some moron recommended on this thread over a year ago...not very good.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at January 07, 2018 09:37 AM (EZebt)
50
Forecast is 56 degrees today, mid-60s Monday and Tuesday. I think we all know where Soothie's degrees went.
Posted by: Kermit at January 07, 2018 09:38 AM (/A+Cl)
51
I did an Outward Bound type thing when I was in high school along the NH/Canadian border in January. Needless to say it was freaking cold and the ground was covered by 3-4 feet with deeper drifts of snow which meant we spent 10 days walking with snowshoes.
Right near the end of the trip we had a 3 day "solo". They gave us a tarp, some powdered hot chocolate, dry soup, a cup, a cooking put, a spoon, a pad of paper and a pencil and 10 matches.
First thing I did was dig a pit to make a fire which I was determined to keep going for all 3 days. By the end of the 3 days the pit had expanded from the fire all the way to the ground and was a circle about 10 feet in diameter. I was throwing on huge pieces of wood that I found on my daily hikes and it just kept making the fire and the pit bigger.
As a consequence I spent the 3 days warm and toasty playing solitaire with the set of cards I made with the pad of paper and just enjoying the peace and quiet. Some of the other people weren't so fortunate and there were a number of cases of frostbite.
I had read To Build a Fire when I was a kid.
Right near the end of the trip we had a 3 day "solo". They gave us a tarp, some powdered hot chocolate, dry soup, a cup, a cooking put, a spoon, a pad of paper and a pencil and 10 matches.
First thing I did was dig a pit to make a fire which I was determined to keep going for all 3 days. By the end of the 3 days the pit had expanded from the fire all the way to the ground and was a circle about 10 feet in diameter. I was throwing on huge pieces of wood that I found on my daily hikes and it just kept making the fire and the pit bigger.
As a consequence I spent the 3 days warm and toasty playing solitaire with the set of cards I made with the pad of paper and just enjoying the peace and quiet. Some of the other people weren't so fortunate and there were a number of cases of frostbite.
I had read To Build a Fire when I was a kid.
Posted by: JackStraw at January 07, 2018 09:39 AM (/tuJf)
52
I'm thinking about rereading "Cold Mountain," by Charles Frazier. I really like his writing. What brought him to mind was Mp#'s title, "Thirteen Moons," which is also the title of a (very good) Frazier novel. One of the great historical tidbits in "Thirteen Moons" is this gem, sure to blow the SJW crowds mind: There were wealthy Cherokee plantation owners.
Who kept slaves.
Who kept slaves.
Posted by: Brave Sir Robin at January 07, 2018 09:39 AM (ty7RM)
53
Politics. I can't read anything, or watch any TV/video without seeing the politics of it, because human behavior and why people act that way is politics.
It was a surprise to me to read that Jack London was a socialists because I don't remember anything political in his writings. I didn't know he was an oyster pirate either. Guess I'll have to re-read his writings.
Politics. I can't read anything, or watch any TV/video without seeing the politics of it, because human behavior and why people act that way is politics.
It was a surprise to me to read that Jack London was a socialists because I don't remember anything political in his writings. I didn't know he was an oyster pirate either. Guess I'll have to re-read his writings.
Posted by: Skandia Recluse at January 07, 2018 09:39 AM (GroCc)
54
When I was a kid I had a GSD named Buck. Call of the Wild is one of the first real, not kiddie, books I remember reading.
Same for me. Our elementary school library had it. I can remember exactly where it was in the library. They had a biography section with books with orange covers. I can't remember the publisher. I read the whole wall in the 5th grade. If you made good grades, they would pick you to help shelve books. That was a highlight, so was flag duty.
Same for me. Our elementary school library had it. I can remember exactly where it was in the library. They had a biography section with books with orange covers. I can't remember the publisher. I read the whole wall in the 5th grade. If you made good grades, they would pick you to help shelve books. That was a highlight, so was flag duty.
Posted by: no good deed at January 07, 2018 09:40 AM (eIQHF)
55
With North Korea in the news I wanted to find Alternative History of the Korean War or Korean War 2 surprisingly not many books have been written.
I have read Red Phoenix by Larry Bond, he co wrote Red Storm Rising with Tom Clancey. I listen to the Audiobook (24 hours) it's a pretty good book, it's dated since it takes place in 1989 or written then and the USSR is involved. I don't think the air losses would have been as bad as the book suggested and no mention of any Stealth fighters or bombers. I still enjoyed the book, good Characters pacing was really good.
I am currently reading Red Phoenix Burning the sequel to Red Phoenix.
I also saw Harry Turtledove wrote a book about the Korean War where General MacArthur uses the A bomb on China.
I am also looking to reading about during the Civil War where the UK sides with the South. BRITANNIA'S FIST.
Anyone else know of some good Alternative History books
I have read Red Phoenix by Larry Bond, he co wrote Red Storm Rising with Tom Clancey. I listen to the Audiobook (24 hours) it's a pretty good book, it's dated since it takes place in 1989 or written then and the USSR is involved. I don't think the air losses would have been as bad as the book suggested and no mention of any Stealth fighters or bombers. I still enjoyed the book, good Characters pacing was really good.
I am currently reading Red Phoenix Burning the sequel to Red Phoenix.
I also saw Harry Turtledove wrote a book about the Korean War where General MacArthur uses the A bomb on China.
I am also looking to reading about during the Civil War where the UK sides with the South. BRITANNIA'S FIST.
Anyone else know of some good Alternative History books
Posted by: Patrick From Ohio at January 07, 2018 09:41 AM (dKiJG)
56
I am reading the J. Peterman 2018 Spring Catalogue. Himalayan Walking Shoes are half price hold overs from winter! I am also drawn to the new Cabo San Lucas Cartel De-nogginizer 12 Stitch ball caps!
Posted by: ROckysan99 at January 07, 2018 09:42 AM (R0h3g)
Posted by: Mr. Peebles at January 07, 2018 09:42 AM (oVJmc)
58
I would like to read "Thirteen Moons". I quite enjoyed Director's Cut. I just don't have Kindle.
Posted by: FenelonSpoke at January 07, 2018 09:43 AM (8+Ozj)
59
Finished listening to Ralph Raico's Classical Liberalism and the Austrian School. It was very informative and the only book I've read where you couldn't skip the footnotes because there were notes about the footnotes. I found the final essay to go off the rails. It accused the US military of creating the *specter* of soviet wish for world domination after WWII so as to keep fighting and maintain control of the US. It was particularly strange as the author had acknowledged the communist willingness to use violence and desire for world control (the comintern) in the essay previous to that one.
Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at January 07, 2018 09:43 AM (rp9xB)
60
>>> As interesting discovery is whie I enjoy books about the man, I greatly prefer to read his own writing.
I enjoyed his WWII memoire.
Even some of the memos in the appendix were good reading.
I enjoyed his WWII memoire.
Even some of the memos in the appendix were good reading.
Posted by: fluffy at January 07, 2018 09:44 AM (cHbmY)
61
26 For God's sake, put down whatever book you're reading and turn on The Gorilla Channel!
Posted by: FIIGMO at January 07, 2018 09:14 AM (E+qJE)
A Noon Gore has 90 minute show to discuss AGW, anthropogenic gorilla warming.
Posted by: FIIGMO at January 07, 2018 09:14 AM (E+qJE)
A Noon Gore has 90 minute show to discuss AGW, anthropogenic gorilla warming.
Posted by: rhennigantx at January 07, 2018 09:44 AM (BtQd4)
62
Sounds like fun! I'm a sucker for short stories....
-------
Me too. They were once held in higher regard, maybe because there used to be more literary magazines better suited to the short story form.
It's a great format for SF writers to explore an idea and takes discipline. Now everything is in herniatic doorstops or endless, endless series.
-------
Me too. They were once held in higher regard, maybe because there used to be more literary magazines better suited to the short story form.
It's a great format for SF writers to explore an idea and takes discipline. Now everything is in herniatic doorstops or endless, endless series.
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at January 07, 2018 09:44 AM (qJtVm)
63
I enjoyed Jon del Arroz's young adult steampunk adventure, For Steam and Country. Worldcon pre-emptively forbade him from attending their science fiction convention for violating their Code of Conduct due to his "harassment:" he was going to wear a body cam to document the harassment he'd been receiving! Jon's a good guy to throw a few of your Kindle reading dollars to.
Posted by: Hans G. Schantz at January 07, 2018 09:45 AM (0h1Dx)
Posted by: Anon a mouse at January 07, 2018 09:45 AM (7LY+6)
65
I have yet to read a paragraph of Shelby Foot's works, something keeps me away like a cross to a vampire.
Posted by: Skip at January 07, 2018 09:23 AM (aC6Sd)
Same here and that should change because the Horde has given me outstanding recommendations on history books. Maybe when I complete Blue at the Mizzen, the last Aubrey/Maturin...
Posted by: Skip at January 07, 2018 09:23 AM (aC6Sd)
Same here and that should change because the Horde has given me outstanding recommendations on history books. Maybe when I complete Blue at the Mizzen, the last Aubrey/Maturin...
Posted by: Captain Hate at January 07, 2018 09:45 AM (y7DUB)
66
58 I would like to read "Thirteen Moons". I quite enjoyed Director's Cut. I just don't have Kindle.
Posted by: FenelonSpoke at January 07, 2018 09:43 AM (8+Ozj)
You can get kindle app for about anything. I have it on 3 yo samsung tablet and my Moto X phone. There is also a win10 version I believe.
Posted by: FenelonSpoke at January 07, 2018 09:43 AM (8+Ozj)
You can get kindle app for about anything. I have it on 3 yo samsung tablet and my Moto X phone. There is also a win10 version I believe.
Posted by: rhennigantx at January 07, 2018 09:46 AM (BtQd4)
67
57 I didn't know he was an oyster pirate either.
Well, a lot of your creative types, you know...
Posted by: Mr. Peebles at January 07, 2018 09:42 AM (oVJmc)
The Oyster Pirate seems like a clam-dunk for a bodice ripper title.
Well, a lot of your creative types, you know...
Posted by: Mr. Peebles at January 07, 2018 09:42 AM (oVJmc)
The Oyster Pirate seems like a clam-dunk for a bodice ripper title.
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at January 07, 2018 09:46 AM (qJtVm)
68
The Oyster Pirate seems like a clam-dunk for a bodice ripper title.
Ha! He's only after your pearl.
Ha! He's only after your pearl.
Posted by: no good deed at January 07, 2018 09:47 AM (eIQHF)
69
Jack London also wrote sci-fi.
The Red One http://bit.ly/2qEUny2
and a debatable list http://bit.ly/2qDk6qq
The Red One http://bit.ly/2qEUny2
and a debatable list http://bit.ly/2qDk6qq
Posted by: Grump928(C) at January 07, 2018 09:47 AM (WbIyz)
70
I enjoyed Jon del Arroz's young adult steampunk adventure, For Steam and Country.
---
I have this and totally forgot about it! This will be my next read. Thanks.
---
I have this and totally forgot about it! This will be my next read. Thanks.
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at January 07, 2018 09:47 AM (qJtVm)
71
The shell you say!
Posted by: gorillaexchange, formerly of goats at January 07, 2018 09:47 AM (YFnq5)
72
I take it that "Lauren" is not a reader. She just uses books as a design element.
Posted by: rickl at January 07, 2018 09:48 AM (sdi6R)
73
That was how he got his hate on for "Capitalism".
Of course, he was nutty anyways.
Posted by: Hairyback Guy at January 07, 2018 09:02 AM (EoRCO)
Another, similar version to the "I hate my dad" reason.
People are funny. They'll go grab a mocha frappy latte with foam at the Starbuck, drive their shitty little Kia, plinking away on their Iproducts, saying how they hate capitalism.
Then they'll go to work, half-ass it because the boss has a nicer car then they do.
Yeah, no. You don't hate capitalism. You hate yourself.
Of course, he was nutty anyways.
Posted by: Hairyback Guy at January 07, 2018 09:02 AM (EoRCO)
Another, similar version to the "I hate my dad" reason.
People are funny. They'll go grab a mocha frappy latte with foam at the Starbuck, drive their shitty little Kia, plinking away on their Iproducts, saying how they hate capitalism.
Then they'll go to work, half-ass it because the boss has a nicer car then they do.
Yeah, no. You don't hate capitalism. You hate yourself.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 09:48 AM (Pz4pT)
74
Currently reading Freemasonry: Symbols, Secrets, Significance by W. Kirk MacNulty. The book is profusely illustrated with examples of old Masonic artifacts which is what interests me as a Mason, myself. Written by a Freemason, the book is an examination of the development of the fraternity and would be a worthwhile read for anyone not a member but has an interest in Freemasonry and what it actually is.*
* Freemasonry uses allegories related to the stonemason's working tools as symbols of how to build good character and much of the ritual revolves around the building of King Solomon's Temple. The actual secrets are some elements of the rituals and modes of recognition. (You can easily find the "secrets" on the intertubes, it's just that a Freemason in good standing won't tell you.)
* Freemasonry uses allegories related to the stonemason's working tools as symbols of how to build good character and much of the ritual revolves around the building of King Solomon's Temple. The actual secrets are some elements of the rituals and modes of recognition. (You can easily find the "secrets" on the intertubes, it's just that a Freemason in good standing won't tell you.)
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at January 07, 2018 09:48 AM (5Yee7)
75
>>> I don't think the air losses would have been as bad as the book suggested and no mention of any Stealth fighters or bombers.
I seem to recall there were a few pages describing a stealth fighter bomber over the battle area, but it was a couple decades ago.
I seem to recall there were a few pages describing a stealth fighter bomber over the battle area, but it was a couple decades ago.
Posted by: fluffy at January 07, 2018 09:50 AM (cHbmY)
76
Aw, shucks.
Agree about 'Lauren.' I've been to homes with books displayed like that. Unfailingly, it always comes back to "Look at me! Look how edgy and hip I am!"
Agree about 'Lauren.' I've been to homes with books displayed like that. Unfailingly, it always comes back to "Look at me! Look how edgy and hip I am!"
Posted by: gorillaexchange, formerly of goats at January 07, 2018 09:50 AM (YFnq5)
77
I take it that "Lauren" is not a reader. She just uses books as a design element.
Posted by: rickl at January 07, 2018 09:48 AM (sdi6R)
She doesn't even have a nice rack.
Sad.
Posted by: rickl at January 07, 2018 09:48 AM (sdi6R)
She doesn't even have a nice rack.
Sad.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 09:51 AM (Pz4pT)
78
I would like to read "Thirteen Moons". I quite enjoyed Director's Cut. I just don't have Kindle.
Posted by: FenelonSpoke at January 07, 2018 09:43 AM (8+Ozj)
E-mail me, Fenelon. I have the story on a flash drive and can send it to you.
Posted by: FenelonSpoke at January 07, 2018 09:43 AM (8+Ozj)
E-mail me, Fenelon. I have the story on a flash drive and can send it to you.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing at January 07, 2018 09:51 AM (Ki5SV)
79
Ha! He's only after your pearl.
Posted by: no good deed at January 07, 2018 09:47 AM (eIQHF)
They never find it....
Posted by: no good deed at January 07, 2018 09:47 AM (eIQHF)
They never find it....
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at January 07, 2018 09:52 AM (qJtVm)
80
Posted by: rhennigantx at January 07, 2018 09:46 AM (BtQd4)
Thanks; I don't have an i-phone. My cell phone dates sightly after Edison invented the telephone. I might be able to do aps on it but have no clue how to do so.
Thanks; I don't have an i-phone. My cell phone dates sightly after Edison invented the telephone. I might be able to do aps on it but have no clue how to do so.
Posted by: FenelonSpoke at January 07, 2018 09:53 AM (8+Ozj)
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing at January 07, 2018 09:53 AM (Ki5SV)
82
I'd like to thank CBD and the Horde for helping with my book Shagging, Shooting Death. Last week CBD was kind enough to feature my shameless plug of it (from the prior week's comments) in his opening post, and sales immediately began ticking up. My publisher was blown away, as was I, especially for the two sales in Australia and one in England -- within 24 hours! And more coming in during the week. I'm truly grateful for the help, and can confirm AoS Morons in Oz and England, as there's been zero PR for the book there. Anyway, at the risk of wearing out my welcome, if anyone's still interested, you can check it out at goo.gl/MwxtGx (if the url doesn't work, just go to Amazon). Right now it's exclusive to Amazon, but we're planning for an ITunes release for Kindle-phobes, and that's coming in about 4 or 5 weeks.
Again, thanks for the help, interest and support. Means more than I can say, as I'm a mostly lurker (work prevents me from posting as much as I'd like). The Horde is truly a fabulous beast!
Again, thanks for the help, interest and support. Means more than I can say, as I'm a mostly lurker (work prevents me from posting as much as I'd like). The Horde is truly a fabulous beast!
Posted by: Gleefully Deplorable at January 07, 2018 09:54 AM (mapAj)
83
The Left wing nut organization that sends me emails for some reason claims "The Resistance is on Fire".I confess I did not read just what that means....
Posted by: steevy at January 07, 2018 09:54 AM (LiyEm)
84
"64 Anyone else know of some good Alternative History books"
"The years of Rice and Salt" (2002). The Black Death wipes out 99% of the European population, and the world develops into two great spheres of influence perennially in conflict, the Chinese federation and the Islamic World. The industrial revolution first happens in southern India, which has manages to stay free of either of those 2 power blocs.
A Japanese samurai, fleeing from a successful Chinese conquest of Japan, makes his way to North America, learns the languages of the natives and convinces them of the danger coming from across the sea, the Chinese from the west and the muslims from the east. He teaches them to make flintlock rifles and form a defensive alliance which becomes the Hodenasaunee League, which also becomes a world power.
It's very creative, and a 30 year long World War still happens - but the players are completely different.
"The years of Rice and Salt" (2002). The Black Death wipes out 99% of the European population, and the world develops into two great spheres of influence perennially in conflict, the Chinese federation and the Islamic World. The industrial revolution first happens in southern India, which has manages to stay free of either of those 2 power blocs.
A Japanese samurai, fleeing from a successful Chinese conquest of Japan, makes his way to North America, learns the languages of the natives and convinces them of the danger coming from across the sea, the Chinese from the west and the muslims from the east. He teaches them to make flintlock rifles and form a defensive alliance which becomes the Hodenasaunee League, which also becomes a world power.
It's very creative, and a 30 year long World War still happens - but the players are completely different.
Posted by: Tom Servo at January 07, 2018 09:54 AM (V2Yro)
85
Jack London's writings : http://bit.ly/2qDk6qq
Well, that explains everything. I've only read a handful of London's books.
(I tend to be picky about what I read; always insufficient funds, you see.)
Well, that explains everything. I've only read a handful of London's books.
(I tend to be picky about what I read; always insufficient funds, you see.)
Posted by: Skandia Recluse at January 07, 2018 09:55 AM (GroCc)
86
>>> 73 ..... Yeah, no. You don't hate capitalism. You hate yourself.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 09:48 AM (Pz4pT)
Nocapitalism free market for hippies!!
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 09:48 AM (Pz4pT)
No
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at January 07, 2018 09:55 AM (/jJd8)
87
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing at January 07, 2018 09:51 AM (Ki5SV)
O.K. Thanks. Now I just have to figure out what a flash drive is. ;^) Did I mention that I am not on the cutting edge of technology. I still send out dead tree cards instead of doing it by e-mail.
O.K. Thanks. Now I just have to figure out what a flash drive is. ;^) Did I mention that I am not on the cutting edge of technology. I still send out dead tree cards instead of doing it by e-mail.
Posted by: FenelonSpoke at January 07, 2018 09:55 AM (8+Ozj)
88
That was how he got his hate on for "Capitalism".
Of course, he was nutty anyways.
Posted by: Hairyback Guy at January 07, 2018 09:02 AM (EoRCO)
I don't think his time "undercover" in London among the destitute of the East End helped his worldview either. Out of that came the book People of the Abyss.
Of course, he was nutty anyways.
Posted by: Hairyback Guy at January 07, 2018 09:02 AM (EoRCO)
I don't think his time "undercover" in London among the destitute of the East End helped his worldview either. Out of that came the book People of the Abyss.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing at January 07, 2018 09:55 AM (Ki5SV)
Posted by: FenelonSpoke at January 07, 2018 09:56 AM (8+Ozj)
Posted by: fluffy at January 07, 2018 09:56 AM (cHbmY)
91
And to prove that I really am an author, I screwed up the name of my own book. It's Shagging, Shooting Death. Geez. Must be a coffee failure.
Posted by: Gleefully Deplorable at January 07, 2018 09:56 AM (mapAj)
Posted by: Anon a mouse at January 07, 2018 09:56 AM (7LY+6)
93
Any history buff moron who has not read Shelby Foote is doing himself a injustice. The "Civil War" is one of the great pieces of literature of the 20th century.
Posted by: Libra at January 07, 2018 09:57 AM (u0gU9)
Posted by: San Franpsycho at January 07, 2018 09:57 AM (EZebt)
95
90
>>> at the risk of wearing out my welcome
Nah, you authors class up the joint.
Welcome!
Thanks, fluffy! I love being able to comment, and the book thread has provided me with many hours of reading pleasure, both the post, comments and recommendations. Found stuff I'd never have found otherwise.
>>> at the risk of wearing out my welcome
Nah, you authors class up the joint.
Welcome!
Thanks, fluffy! I love being able to comment, and the book thread has provided me with many hours of reading pleasure, both the post, comments and recommendations. Found stuff I'd never have found otherwise.
Posted by: Gleefully Deplorable at January 07, 2018 09:57 AM (mapAj)
96
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing at January 07, 2018 09:51 AM (Ki5SV)
More technologically proficient husband knows what a flash drive is. I will e-mail you.
More technologically proficient husband knows what a flash drive is. I will e-mail you.
Posted by: FenelonSpoke at January 07, 2018 09:58 AM (8+Ozj)
97
Own it but yet to read it. Calvin Rutstrum's Paradise Below Zero.
Chips From A Wilderness Log is my favorite of the books I have read by him. Great outdoorman. Never been an outdoorsman like him but I love to go to a certain remote place to get away from city noise.
Hiking not camping.
He was a man of wisdom -I love his writings as much as I love Aldo Leopold's.
Chips From A Wilderness Log is my favorite of the books I have read by him. Great outdoorman. Never been an outdoorsman like him but I love to go to a certain remote place to get away from city noise.
Hiking not camping.
He was a man of wisdom -I love his writings as much as I love Aldo Leopold's.
Posted by: Glenn John at January 07, 2018 09:58 AM (ZwfAu)
98
Thanks; I don't have an i-phone. My cell phone dates sightly after Edison invented the telephone. I might be able to do aps on it but have no clue how to do so.
Posted by: FenelonSpoke at January 07, 2018 09:53 AM (8+Ozj)
Kindle for Computer page:
https://tinyurl.com/ycpnnzu4
Works on Win 7 8 and 10
Posted by: FenelonSpoke at January 07, 2018 09:53 AM (8+Ozj)
Kindle for Computer page:
https://tinyurl.com/ycpnnzu4
Works on Win 7 8 and 10
Posted by: rhennigantx at January 07, 2018 09:59 AM (BtQd4)
99
I take it that "Lauren" is not a reader. She just uses books as a design element.
Posted by: rickl at January 07, 2018 09:48 AM (sdi6R)
Right; how would she know which book she wants to find without otherwise moving them around in order to read the title on the spine. There's a perfectly valid reason books "look different" from each other: it makes it easier to pick out the particular book you're looking for.
She doesn't even use hardbacks, just a bunch of tatty paperbacks in not particularly nice condition.
Posted by: rickl at January 07, 2018 09:48 AM (sdi6R)
Right; how would she know which book she wants to find without otherwise moving them around in order to read the title on the spine. There's a perfectly valid reason books "look different" from each other: it makes it easier to pick out the particular book you're looking for.
She doesn't even use hardbacks, just a bunch of tatty paperbacks in not particularly nice condition.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at January 07, 2018 09:59 AM (5Yee7)
Posted by: Grump928(C) at January 07, 2018 09:59 AM (WbIyz)
101
O.K. Thanks. Now I just have to figure out what a flash drive is. ;^)
My pleasure, FS (and thanks, CBD, for posting a link to Thirteen Moons, it's very much appreciated.
My one resolution for the new year - other than the perpetual "find a new job" is to finish the second Bara mystery, The Stuff That Dreams Are Made Of. I've written enough to fill out a book, it's just that a lot of it doesn't come together into a coherent plot. I am hoping that the "jump start" of this story will boost my mind into finishing.
And speaking of jump starts, can someone jump start the summer? I am sick to death of this cold.
My pleasure, FS (and thanks, CBD, for posting a link to Thirteen Moons, it's very much appreciated.
My one resolution for the new year - other than the perpetual "find a new job" is to finish the second Bara mystery, The Stuff That Dreams Are Made Of. I've written enough to fill out a book, it's just that a lot of it doesn't come together into a coherent plot. I am hoping that the "jump start" of this story will boost my mind into finishing.
And speaking of jump starts, can someone jump start the summer? I am sick to death of this cold.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing at January 07, 2018 10:00 AM (Ki5SV)
102
Probably the most explicitly political/socialist fiction London wrote was the novel "The Iron Heel," published in 1908 and set in the (then) near-future of 1912-1918.
Although it does get bogged down in a lot of tedious passages where the main character attempts to explain why he thinks socialism is the wave of the future, I still would recommend it to The Horde for the following reasons:
1. Aside from the political stuff, it does have some passages I found very moving, and it can be approached simply as a story of people trying to survive in a world gone mad.
2. It's written from a female first-person point of view, and it's, shall we say, interesting to see how London, a quintessentially macho author, handles it.
3. IMO the political scenario in the novel -- a ruthless "Oligarchy" of rich and politically powerful conservatives attempts to crush an uprising by ordinary working class folk who are (of course) all raging leftists -- could also apply somewhat to today, but with the political poles reversed: i.e., the Oligarchy are liberal/leftist and the rebellious working class are the conservatives/"deplorables". Case in point: the heroine's father is a professor at Berkeley (in 1912) who gets canned for writing a book that expresses views the administration considers too radical. Today, of course, he'd get canned for publishing or saying anything they considered not radical enough.
Although it does get bogged down in a lot of tedious passages where the main character attempts to explain why he thinks socialism is the wave of the future, I still would recommend it to The Horde for the following reasons:
1. Aside from the political stuff, it does have some passages I found very moving, and it can be approached simply as a story of people trying to survive in a world gone mad.
2. It's written from a female first-person point of view, and it's, shall we say, interesting to see how London, a quintessentially macho author, handles it.
3. IMO the political scenario in the novel -- a ruthless "Oligarchy" of rich and politically powerful conservatives attempts to crush an uprising by ordinary working class folk who are (of course) all raging leftists -- could also apply somewhat to today, but with the political poles reversed: i.e., the Oligarchy are liberal/leftist and the rebellious working class are the conservatives/"deplorables". Case in point: the heroine's father is a professor at Berkeley (in 1912) who gets canned for writing a book that expresses views the administration considers too radical. Today, of course, he'd get canned for publishing or saying anything they considered not radical enough.
Posted by: Secret Square at January 07, 2018 10:00 AM (9WuX0)
103
The Man in the High Castle
Posted by: San Franpsycho at January 07, 2018 09:57 AM (EZebt)
yes Mr Dick! Also wrote Do Androids Dream of Electric Gorillas?
I never figured out in High C was that an alt history or parallel universe.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at January 07, 2018 09:57 AM (EZebt)
yes Mr Dick! Also wrote Do Androids Dream of Electric Gorillas?
I never figured out in High C was that an alt history or parallel universe.
Posted by: rhennigantx at January 07, 2018 10:01 AM (BtQd4)
104
I re-read Call of the Wild and White Fang last year. It seems that dogs have turned into real pampered wusses over the last hundred years.
Posted by: Cosda at January 07, 2018 10:02 AM (g60mT)
105
I never figured out in High C was that an alt history or parallel universe.
Is the book like the series?
Is the book like the series?
Posted by: Grump928(C) at January 07, 2018 10:02 AM (WbIyz)
106
54
I too enjoyed reading the "orange biographies" as a kid. An internet search shows that they were called Childhood of Famous Americans created by the Bobbs-Merrill Co. and published primarily in the 1940's and 1950's. There were over 200 of them, but my small-town library only had about 30 of them.
I too enjoyed reading the "orange biographies" as a kid. An internet search shows that they were called Childhood of Famous Americans created by the Bobbs-Merrill Co. and published primarily in the 1940's and 1950's. There were over 200 of them, but my small-town library only had about 30 of them.
Posted by: Zoltan at January 07, 2018 10:03 AM (T8WeQ)
107
Hasn't Newt written some alt-history books?
Posted by: Mr. Peebles at January 07, 2018 10:03 AM (oVJmc)
108
I take it that "Lauren" is not a reader. She just uses books as a design element.
It's a fine art using books as decoration. If the books are clearly new and unread, you're a poser. If they're all completely worn out, you've clearly just picked them up at yard sales and library purges. No, you must have exactly the correct degree of worn-ness to convey that you're a serious person.
Of course, if you're an actual reader, you don't give a damn.
It's a fine art using books as decoration. If the books are clearly new and unread, you're a poser. If they're all completely worn out, you've clearly just picked them up at yard sales and library purges. No, you must have exactly the correct degree of worn-ness to convey that you're a serious person.
Of course, if you're an actual reader, you don't give a damn.
Posted by: pep at January 07, 2018 10:04 AM (LAe3v)
109
It's a cold and rainy day here. 34 degrees right now but if it gets any colder we could be looking at freezing rain so I did my errands early.
Posted by: Jewells45 at January 07, 2018 10:04 AM (CNHr1)
110
I re-read Call of the Wild and White Fang last year. It seems that dogs have turned into real pampered wusses over the last hundred years.
Posted by: Cosda at January 07, 2018 10:02 AM (g60mT)
It's why I prefer cats. Cats don't put up with our shite the way dogs do. If my cats were as big as my dog, I'd be dead by now.
Posted by: Cosda at January 07, 2018 10:02 AM (g60mT)
It's why I prefer cats. Cats don't put up with our shite the way dogs do. If my cats were as big as my dog, I'd be dead by now.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:05 AM (Pz4pT)
111
I read Shelby Foote's entire Civil War trilogy, and I highly recommend it.
That was before I discovered the internet. Paradoxically, the internet has greatly cut into the time I used to spend reading books, while simultaneously making it easier than ever to buy books.
That was before I discovered the internet. Paradoxically, the internet has greatly cut into the time I used to spend reading books, while simultaneously making it easier than ever to buy books.
Posted by: rickl at January 07, 2018 10:06 AM (sdi6R)
112
It seems that dogs have turned into real pampered wusses over the last hundred years.
More correctly, we've turned them into pampered wusses. Oh, and chickens don't really look like that in the wild.
More correctly, we've turned them into pampered wusses. Oh, and chickens don't really look like that in the wild.
Posted by: pep at January 07, 2018 10:06 AM (LAe3v)
113
I love Call of the Wild and White Fang. My class reads them every year. They are wonderful books for teaching figurative language and vocabulary. It's hard for my very sheltered students (who have only known family pets) to understand the brutal treatment of the dogs in the books. This makes for some great discussions.
Posted by: Mrs. Leggy at January 07, 2018 10:08 AM (prxs+)
114
100
It's Shagging, Shooting Death.
Ampersands require the Platinum Membership.
Posted by: Grump928(C) at January 07, 2018 09:59 AM (WbIyz)
Didn't know that. I'm afraid to ask what the requirements for Platinum Membership are, but will henceforth call my book Shagging, Shooting (ampersand) Death. Maybe it will entice grammar and symbology devotees.
It's Shagging, Shooting Death.
Ampersands require the Platinum Membership.
Posted by: Grump928(C) at January 07, 2018 09:59 AM (WbIyz)
Didn't know that. I'm afraid to ask what the requirements for Platinum Membership are, but will henceforth call my book Shagging, Shooting (ampersand) Death. Maybe it will entice grammar and symbology devotees.
Posted by: Gleefully Deplorable at January 07, 2018 10:08 AM (mapAj)
115
"The Iron Heal" is on Amazon for free.
ISBN: 1535540745
(someone once complained that nobody uses the Amazon ID number)
ASIN: B00847CZZO
Doesn't appear to have a table of contents, and appears to be annotated.
"The Iron Heal" is on Amazon for free.
ISBN: 1535540745
(someone once complained that nobody uses the Amazon ID number)
ASIN: B00847CZZO
Doesn't appear to have a table of contents, and appears to be annotated.
Posted by: Skandia Recluse at January 07, 2018 10:08 AM (GroCc)
116
>>> If my cats were as big as my dog, I'd be dead by now.
At their current size, they have aready done their meal planning. "When he kicks off he will provide three weeks of meat."
At their current size, they have aready done their meal planning. "When he kicks off he will provide three weeks of meat."
Posted by: fluffy at January 07, 2018 10:09 AM (cHbmY)
117
Several aquantences are democrats. They are no longer able to engage in normal civil conversation. They babble phrases from Dhimmi Kimmel and quote the Wolfe book as if it were The Bible.
Posted by: PhilDirt at January 07, 2018 10:09 AM (w+ojZ)
118
If my cats were as big as my dog, I'd be dead by now.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:05 AM (Pz4pT)
They'd have a name for you...."Lunch".
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:05 AM (Pz4pT)
They'd have a name for you...."Lunch".
Posted by: BignJames at January 07, 2018 10:10 AM (0+nbW)
119
I read Shelby Foote's entire Civil War trilogy, and I highly recommend it.
That was before I discovered the internet. Paradoxically, the internet has greatly cut into the time I used to spend reading books, while simultaneously making it easier than ever to buy books.
Posted by: rickl at January 07, 2018 10:06 AM (sdi6R)
Yup. And if I WAS going to find the time, and decided rather than reading all the books I have that I have not yet read, and would re-read something I've already read before... I would start with Foote's trilogy.
That was before I discovered the internet. Paradoxically, the internet has greatly cut into the time I used to spend reading books, while simultaneously making it easier than ever to buy books.
Posted by: rickl at January 07, 2018 10:06 AM (sdi6R)
Yup. And if I WAS going to find the time, and decided rather than reading all the books I have that I have not yet read, and would re-read something I've already read before... I would start with Foote's trilogy.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:10 AM (Pz4pT)
Posted by: Mr. Peebles at January 07, 2018 10:10 AM (oVJmc)
121
Speaking of books, the author of the new Trump hit piece Michael Wolff is explaining on Meet the Press that Trump is crazy as a shit house rat, there is constant talk in the White House that his own team thinks they might have to invoke the 25th Amendment and things are far worse than anyone could have imagined.
So a fair and balanced approach.
So a fair and balanced approach.
Posted by: JackStraw at January 07, 2018 10:11 AM (/tuJf)
122
Is the book like the series?
Posted by: Grump928(C) at January 07, 2018 10:02 AM (WbIyz)
Book is pretty quick read and gets to the point at the end. I will not spoil.
Posted by: Grump928(C) at January 07, 2018 10:02 AM (WbIyz)
Book is pretty quick read and gets to the point at the end. I will not spoil.
Posted by: rhennigantx at January 07, 2018 10:12 AM (BtQd4)
123
I read Shelby Foote's entire Civil War trilogy, and I highly recommend it.
That was before I discovered the internet. Paradoxically, the internet has greatly cut into the time I used to spend reading books, while simultaneously making it easier than ever to buy books.
Posted by: rickl at January 07, 2018 10:06 AM (sdi6R)
It took me nearly a year to read it. I had to take breaks.
That was before I discovered the internet. Paradoxically, the internet has greatly cut into the time I used to spend reading books, while simultaneously making it easier than ever to buy books.
Posted by: rickl at January 07, 2018 10:06 AM (sdi6R)
It took me nearly a year to read it. I had to take breaks.
Posted by: BignJames at January 07, 2018 10:14 AM (0+nbW)
124
If my cats were as big as my dog, I'd be dead by now.
--------------------------
At their current size, they have aready done their meal planning. "When he kicks off he will provide three weeks of meat."
Posted by: fluffy at January 07, 2018 10:09 AM (cHbmY)
I already know how it will go. The little one, the youngest, he'll get the most meat, because he's relentless and fast. The biggest one will get his share, because he's just big. The female will get her share, because she's sneaky, and my oldest, who thought he ran the place before we brought in the other males, he'll do a lot of complaining, and get the least.
I hate to say it. He's been with me so long, we're best friends, but nature is playing out in my household. The old male, master of his pride once, is fading and dying the slow death.. because I'm the line between his slow fade, and a quick, fierce death at the teeth and claws of the younger, stronger males.
--------------------------
At their current size, they have aready done their meal planning. "When he kicks off he will provide three weeks of meat."
Posted by: fluffy at January 07, 2018 10:09 AM (cHbmY)
I already know how it will go. The little one, the youngest, he'll get the most meat, because he's relentless and fast. The biggest one will get his share, because he's just big. The female will get her share, because she's sneaky, and my oldest, who thought he ran the place before we brought in the other males, he'll do a lot of complaining, and get the least.
I hate to say it. He's been with me so long, we're best friends, but nature is playing out in my household. The old male, master of his pride once, is fading and dying the slow death.. because I'm the line between his slow fade, and a quick, fierce death at the teeth and claws of the younger, stronger males.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:15 AM (Pz4pT)
125
btw, hahahaha @ Andy Reid for shitting the bed for a big game.
Not that I care, because I don't.
btw, hahahaha @ Andy Reid for shitting the bed for a big game.
Not that I care, because I don't.
Posted by: Soothsayer -- Fake Commenter at January 07, 2018 10:16 AM (v1jzq)
126
Yup. And if I WAS going to find the time, and decided rather than reading all the books I have that I have not yet read, and would re-read something I've already read before... I would start with Foote's trilogy.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:10 AM (Pz4pT)
Since you clued me to The Great Upheaval, that is high praise and guarantees I'll dig into it shortly.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:10 AM (Pz4pT)
Since you clued me to The Great Upheaval, that is high praise and guarantees I'll dig into it shortly.
Posted by: Captain Hate at January 07, 2018 10:17 AM (y7DUB)
127
Good Sunday morning, horde! I'm over an hour late, and only 109 comments? Looks like no one else wanted to leave a warm bed this morning, either.
Now for the content.
Now for the content.
Posted by: April at January 07, 2018 10:17 AM (e8PP1)
128
I decided one year to read James Jones started with the Merry Month of May about the French student revolts. Never got back to his other stuff. Thin Red Line, Here to Eternity, etc
Posted by: rhennigantx at January 07, 2018 10:17 AM (BtQd4)
129
"'I'm a sucker for short stories...."
What Happened Part 2 : The Chappaquaburning
Evidence. Flamethrower.
The End.
Hope you enjoyed it !
What Happened Part 2 : The Chappaquaburning
Evidence. Flamethrower.
The End.
Hope you enjoyed it !
Posted by: Hillary at January 07, 2018 10:18 AM (DhcsO)
130
WeaselAcrea is in Appomattox County, Virginia - not far from the courthouse where Lee surrendered to Grant. I ordered A Place Called Appomattox by William Marvel which is a history of the community both before and after the war. Haven't started reading it yet but it looks good!
Posted by: Weasel at January 07, 2018 10:19 AM (Sfs6o)
131
Good morning, readers and fappers and those who can multitask it.
"looking back, White Fang's for the memories.
Posted by: Muldoon at January 07, 2018 09:12 AM (wPiJc)"
Pretty early in the morning for that gem, Muldoon. BTW, have you written anything new since your WWII woodchucks in artillery shells epic? Anxiously waiting.
And to All Hail Eris, pearl diving is for experts. Please see nic.
"looking back, White Fang's for the memories.
Posted by: Muldoon at January 07, 2018 09:12 AM (wPiJc)"
Pretty early in the morning for that gem, Muldoon. BTW, have you written anything new since your WWII woodchucks in artillery shells epic? Anxiously waiting.
And to All Hail Eris, pearl diving is for experts. Please see nic.
Posted by: RI Red - Expert on everything expert at January 07, 2018 10:19 AM (PtEhS)
132
I still think Trump is crazy....like a fox. Even the attempt to stop the book seems contrived to me. Actually amped it up so more like Give the Indians more fire water and make them even crazier and careless. Americans are watching the market and other things Trump does and are happy and increasingly view the left and the media as alien to our culture. Winning.
Posted by: rammajamma at January 07, 2018 10:19 AM (oAlzZ)
133
btw, hahahaha @ Andy Reid for shitting the bed for a big game.
Not that I care, because I don't.
Posted by: Soothsayer -- Fake Commenter at January 07, 2018 10:16 AM (v1jzq)
Heh, me either, but any time Kansas City is unhappy, I'm happy.
I didn't watch a lick of E-nfl this year, and won't the rest of the way either, but it warms my heart that the Los Angeles team got their butts kicked as well.
Not that I care, because I don't.
Posted by: Soothsayer -- Fake Commenter at January 07, 2018 10:16 AM (v1jzq)
Heh, me either, but any time Kansas City is unhappy, I'm happy.
I didn't watch a lick of E-nfl this year, and won't the rest of the way either, but it warms my heart that the Los Angeles team got their butts kicked as well.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:20 AM (Pz4pT)
134
One of the many reasons I have pretty much stopped reading the NY Times book reviews (and many others) is that seemingly every single one in recent memory has had a political component to it. Yes, I get it, politics is downstream of culture, but every once and a while I would like to read some literary criticism that isn't chock full of the writer's political philosophy, and chock full of criticism of my political philosophy.
Not a new phenomena. Stephen Hunter joked about it in the first Bob Lee Swagger novel, over 20 years ago. The old shooter that Bob and Meat consult with on the Black King rifle is found reading the NYRoB, and he snarks that at his age the only vices left to him are interesting rifles and the folly of New York liberals.
One of the many reasons I have pretty much stopped reading the NY Times book reviews (and many others) is that seemingly every single one in recent memory has had a political component to it. Yes, I get it, politics is downstream of culture, but every once and a while I would like to read some literary criticism that isn't chock full of the writer's political philosophy, and chock full of criticism of my political philosophy.
Not a new phenomena. Stephen Hunter joked about it in the first Bob Lee Swagger novel, over 20 years ago. The old shooter that Bob and Meat consult with on the Black King rifle is found reading the NYRoB, and he snarks that at his age the only vices left to him are interesting rifles and the folly of New York liberals.
Posted by: IllTemperedCur at January 07, 2018 10:20 AM (eXA4G)
135
Speaking of books, the author of the new Trump hit piece Michael Wolff is explaining on Meet the Press that Trump is crazy as a shit house rat, there is constant talk in the White House that his own team thinks they might have to invoke the 25th Amendment and things are far worse than anyone could have imagined.
Even if what Wolff wrote was true (and it surely isn't), it would be months old.
Apparently the '100%' of people who think Trump's insane inside the White House aren't bothered enough to do anything about it for over a year.
Even if what Wolff wrote was true (and it surely isn't), it would be months old.
Apparently the '100%' of people who think Trump's insane inside the White House aren't bothered enough to do anything about it for over a year.
Posted by: Mr. Peebles at January 07, 2018 10:20 AM (oVJmc)
136
Just finished Robicheaux by Burke. Guy is a fine writer and I love the images of New Iberia
Posted by: rammajamma at January 07, 2018 10:20 AM (oAlzZ)
Posted by: Soothsayer -- Fake Commenter at January 07, 2018 10:21 AM (v1jzq)
138
I decided to use some of my Christmas money and buy a customized "ex libris" stamp for Knit'n Kitten. When the shop opens I want to make my needlework book collection available as reference material and also have a "book exchange" available that would include the majority of my fiction and non-fiction collections.
Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at January 07, 2018 10:21 AM (rp9xB)
139
Temperature in Sydney Australia yesterday got up to 116 degrees Fahrenheit. Don't tell Al G. Hottest since1939 IIRC.
Posted by: Glenn John at January 07, 2018 10:21 AM (ZwfAu)
140
It took me nearly a year to read it. I had to take breaks.
I was that way with The Pickwick Papers.
I was that way with The Pickwick Papers.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing at January 07, 2018 10:21 AM (Ki5SV)
141
College Communist force to allow Free Speech.
https://www.campusreform.org/?ID=10340
Why must young men and women give up 1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th rights to go to school?
If you child is going to a school that does not have a Uni go Chicago type letter they are being oppressed!
https://www.campusreform.org/?ID=10340
Why must young men and women give up 1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th rights to go to school?
If you child is going to a school that does not have a Uni go Chicago type letter they are being oppressed!
Posted by: rhennigantx at January 07, 2018 10:22 AM (BtQd4)
142
Re-reading "Music At Midnight"-The Life and Poetry of George Herbert who lived from 1593-1633. Herbert is my favorite 17th century religious poet, and he also had a book "The Country Parson" which is about his life as a Anglican rector. I like the fact that the man who wrote the book, John Drury, puts Herbert's poetry in the context of his life and because the author is a chaplain at Oxford appreciates the theological significance of Herbert's poems.
Posted by: FenelonSpoke at January 07, 2018 10:22 AM (8+Ozj)
143
Good morning, all! I've taken a break from "To Say Nothing of the Dog" to read a historical by one of my very favorite authors - Rosemary Sutcliff. A website run by her godson recommended "The Mark of the Horse Lords", and I found a nearly-new copy on Amazon. About halfway in ... most of her books were written as YA, or juvenile - but as near as I can see, the themes and language are pretty much the same as those novels of hers intended for adults - it's just that the adult novels are about three times longer. I've always loved those of her books about Roman Britain ...
The December markdowns of book one of Luna City and Lone Star Sons is done - but I went ahead and marked the Kindle version of Daughter of Texas down to .99, since sales went really well! Daughter of Texas is the first of eight historical novels about several families settling in Texas during the 19th century. They're all linked, sort of - but stand as independent novels, and run from 1825 to 1900. https://tinyurl.com/yc5xdaeh
The December markdowns of book one of Luna City and Lone Star Sons is done - but I went ahead and marked the Kindle version of Daughter of Texas down to .99, since sales went really well! Daughter of Texas is the first of eight historical novels about several families settling in Texas during the 19th century. They're all linked, sort of - but stand as independent novels, and run from 1825 to 1900. https://tinyurl.com/yc5xdaeh
Posted by: Sgt. Mom at January 07, 2018 10:22 AM (xnmPy)
144
btw, hahahaha @ Andy Reid for shitting the bed for a big game.
Not that I care, because I don't.
Posted by: Soothsayer -- Fake Commenter at January 07, 2018 10:16 AM (v1jzq)
Although I'm completely boycotting the Goodell Social Justice League I can take some vicarious pleasure knowing that his Les Miles level of clock mismanagement continues.
Not that I care, because I don't.
Posted by: Soothsayer -- Fake Commenter at January 07, 2018 10:16 AM (v1jzq)
Although I'm completely boycotting the Goodell Social Justice League I can take some vicarious pleasure knowing that his Les Miles level of clock mismanagement continues.
Posted by: Captain Hate at January 07, 2018 10:22 AM (y7DUB)
145
Glenn Reynolds said that Trump was once pretty friendly with Wolff.Very interesting....
Posted by: steevy at January 07, 2018 10:22 AM (LiyEm)
146
I only monitor the nfl and other pro sports now solely for the political implications. Otherwise, I could not care less for "laundry."
Because that's all it is. A frikkin jersey with a logo on it.
I only monitor the nfl and other pro sports now solely for the political implications. Otherwise, I could not care less for "laundry."
Because that's all it is. A frikkin jersey with a logo on it.
Posted by: Soothsayer -- Fake Commenter at January 07, 2018 10:23 AM (v1jzq)
147
Want to thank CBD and all you Horde members that contribute to this thread. Lots of great recommendations that go in a file I keep that includes who suggested the book and their comments about it. Invaluable.
Bought my eldest the hard cover edition of Shelby Foote's trilogy for Christmas. He was happy to get it but told me "Don't expect me to be done with this any time soon ma." He just got done with the MacArthur and Truman bios I bought him last Christmas. So glad he likes to read. Always has several books going at once.
Would like to have suggestions for a good book on the Revolutionary War. Any thoughts?
Bought my eldest the hard cover edition of Shelby Foote's trilogy for Christmas. He was happy to get it but told me "Don't expect me to be done with this any time soon ma." He just got done with the MacArthur and Truman bios I bought him last Christmas. So glad he likes to read. Always has several books going at once.
Would like to have suggestions for a good book on the Revolutionary War. Any thoughts?
Posted by: cfo mom at January 07, 2018 10:23 AM (RfzVr)
148
I can take some vicarious pleasure knowing that his Les Miles level of clock mismanagement continues.
Heh. I watched the last 2 minutes. What a joke!
I can take some vicarious pleasure knowing that his Les Miles level of clock mismanagement continues.
Heh. I watched the last 2 minutes. What a joke!
Posted by: Soothsayer -- Fake Commenter at January 07, 2018 10:23 AM (v1jzq)
149
126
Since you clued me to The Great Upheaval, that is high praise and guarantees I'll dig into it shortly.
Posted by: Captain Hate at January 07, 2018 10:17 AM (y7DUB)
That's one of the books I bought but haven't read. I still can't get over the fact that I found a first edition hardcover in the bargain bin in a supermarket, mixed with diet books, children's books, and romance novels. How the hell did that get in there?
Since you clued me to The Great Upheaval, that is high praise and guarantees I'll dig into it shortly.
Posted by: Captain Hate at January 07, 2018 10:17 AM (y7DUB)
That's one of the books I bought but haven't read. I still can't get over the fact that I found a first edition hardcover in the bargain bin in a supermarket, mixed with diet books, children's books, and romance novels. How the hell did that get in there?
Posted by: rickl at January 07, 2018 10:24 AM (sdi6R)
150
A really good book on engineering disasters and how they influence design changes is To Engineer is Human by Henry Petroski.
The book is very readable and quite interesting. The subject came up in the EMT.
The book is very readable and quite interesting. The subject came up in the EMT.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at January 07, 2018 10:24 AM (5Yee7)
151
Would like to have suggestions for a good book on the Revolutionary War. Any thoughts?
Posted by: cfo mom at January 07, 2018 10:23 AM (RfzVr)
--------
How about the cookbook?
Posted by: cfo mom at January 07, 2018 10:23 AM (RfzVr)
--------
How about the cookbook?
Posted by: Weasel at January 07, 2018 10:24 AM (Sfs6o)
152
I didn't watch a lick of E-nfl this year, and won't the rest of the way either, but it warms my heart that the Los Angeles team got their butts kicked as well.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:20 AM (Pz4pT)
Same here. Some of the players on the Rams are why I stopped watching in the first place. When they were in St Louis 5 or 6 of them used to come out of the tunnel with their hands up after all-around good guy and turning his life around Mikey Brown took his bullet. So screw 'em.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:20 AM (Pz4pT)
Same here. Some of the players on the Rams are why I stopped watching in the first place. When they were in St Louis 5 or 6 of them used to come out of the tunnel with their hands up after all-around good guy and turning his life around Mikey Brown took his bullet. So screw 'em.
Posted by: jsg at January 07, 2018 10:24 AM (DhcsO)
153
120 Sabo is trolling the Golden Globes:
http://tinyurl.com/yd873ouz
Posted by: Mr. Peebles at January 07, 2018 10:10 AM (oVJmc)
I'm coming around to the idea that Sabo should be certified as a National Treasure.
120 Sabo is trolling the Golden Globes:
http://tinyurl.com/yd873ouz
Posted by: Mr. Peebles at January 07, 2018 10:10 AM (oVJmc)
I'm coming around to the idea that Sabo should be certified as a National Treasure.
Posted by: IllTemperedCur at January 07, 2018 10:27 AM (eXA4G)
154
It is historical fiction but Rise to Rebellion is a great read in the lead up to 1776. Jeff Shaara.
Posted by: rammajamma at January 07, 2018 10:27 AM (oAlzZ)
Posted by: Soothsayer -- Fake Commenter at January 07, 2018 10:27 AM (v1jzq)
156
the folly of New York liberals
Posted by: IllTemperedCur at January 07, 2018 10:20 AM (eXA4G)
It seems to have gotten worse.
And "Point of Impact" is a fun book!
Posted by: IllTemperedCur at January 07, 2018 10:20 AM (eXA4G)
It seems to have gotten worse.
And "Point of Impact" is a fun book!
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at January 07, 2018 10:27 AM (wYseH)
157
In the old movie I'm watching guy asks "Say,are you a dick?" 
Posted by: steevy at January 07, 2018 10:28 AM (LiyEm)
158
>>>Anyone else know of some good Alternative History books<<<
Has anybody bothered to mention the Genesis flood narrative of Gorilla's Ark? Or how about the Book of Exodus where Gorilla led his troop out of Egypt?
No?
Has anybody bothered to mention the Genesis flood narrative of Gorilla's Ark? Or how about the Book of Exodus where Gorilla led his troop out of Egypt?
No?
Posted by: Fritz at January 07, 2018 10:28 AM (bJ0w+)
Posted by: cool breeze at January 07, 2018 10:28 AM (2cg7P)
160
"Doesn't appear to have a table of contents, and appears to be annotated."
The "annotations" are probably a part of the story itself. London presented the plot in the form of a memoir that was "discovered" 700+ years later by scholars who were finally living in the utopian society the revolutionaries of the 20th centuries had been fighting for (yeah, right). The future "discoverer" of the manuscript adds footnotes throughout, some of which explain real-life events of the 19th and early 20th centuries, and others of which explain fictitious events taking place in later centuries.
By the way, if you would prefer a dead tree version of the book with a table of contents and additional material by yours truly, you can order it here (scroll down to the bottom of the page):
http://www.monroestpress.com/Science-Fiction-.html
The "annotations" are probably a part of the story itself. London presented the plot in the form of a memoir that was "discovered" 700+ years later by scholars who were finally living in the utopian society the revolutionaries of the 20th centuries had been fighting for (yeah, right). The future "discoverer" of the manuscript adds footnotes throughout, some of which explain real-life events of the 19th and early 20th centuries, and others of which explain fictitious events taking place in later centuries.
By the way, if you would prefer a dead tree version of the book with a table of contents and additional material by yours truly, you can order it here (scroll down to the bottom of the page):
http://www.monroestpress.com/Science-Fiction-.html
Posted by: Secret Square at January 07, 2018 10:28 AM (9WuX0)
161
Yup. And if I WAS going to find the time, and decided rather than reading all the books I have that I have not yet read, and would re-read something I've already read before... I would start with Foote's trilogy.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:10 AM (Pz4pT)
Since you clued me to The Great Upheaval, that is high praise and guarantees I'll dig into it shortly.
Posted by: Captain Hate at January 07, 2018 10:17 AM (y7DUB)
I noticed that one on a shelf the other day, and was struck by how thick it was! Really, I didn't remember it being a long book, I had this notion that it was a quick read. Which I believe means my brain was absorbed in it quite fully.
I have probably mentioned another of Winik's books, On the Brink, which is about the Reagan foreign policy efforts, where they battled the Soviets... and the State Department.
I haven't finished the book. Not because it isn't a great read. It is. I'm just so pissed off at those people, the State folks. And Congress.
The fact the Soviet Union survived the Reagan years, and did not collapse sooner, is mostly due to the ninnies in our own government. The same sorts who are undermining the current Administration.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:10 AM (Pz4pT)
Since you clued me to The Great Upheaval, that is high praise and guarantees I'll dig into it shortly.
Posted by: Captain Hate at January 07, 2018 10:17 AM (y7DUB)
I noticed that one on a shelf the other day, and was struck by how thick it was! Really, I didn't remember it being a long book, I had this notion that it was a quick read. Which I believe means my brain was absorbed in it quite fully.
I have probably mentioned another of Winik's books, On the Brink, which is about the Reagan foreign policy efforts, where they battled the Soviets... and the State Department.
I haven't finished the book. Not because it isn't a great read. It is. I'm just so pissed off at those people, the State folks. And Congress.
The fact the Soviet Union survived the Reagan years, and did not collapse sooner, is mostly due to the ninnies in our own government. The same sorts who are undermining the current Administration.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:28 AM (Pz4pT)
162
Harry Turtledove for alternative history buffs
Posted by: Old man gator at January 07, 2018 10:29 AM (wzaHw)
163
Professor tells students to violate US laws,destroy white democracy
https://pjmedia.com/instapundit/285279/
https://pjmedia.com/instapundit/285279/
Posted by: steevy at January 07, 2018 10:29 AM (LiyEm)
164
Glenn Reynolds said that Trump was once pretty friendly with Wolff.Very interesting....
Posted by: steevy at January 07, 2018 10:22 AM (LiyEm)
All of these a$$holes loved rubbing elbows with Donald Trump back when he was "just" a real estate developer and a source of money for socially-liberal programs. Now that he is the Trumpenfuehrer busy dismantling their dreams of a Transnational Socialist utopia, they hate him.
Posted by: steevy at January 07, 2018 10:22 AM (LiyEm)
All of these a$$holes loved rubbing elbows with Donald Trump back when he was "just" a real estate developer and a source of money for socially-liberal programs. Now that he is the Trumpenfuehrer busy dismantling their dreams of a Transnational Socialist utopia, they hate him.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at January 07, 2018 10:29 AM (5Yee7)
165
157 Hume Cronyn in the Postman Always Rings Twice. " He used to be a dick but he's not a dick anymore ". Guessing that term came from Dick Tracy?
Posted by: rammajamma at January 07, 2018 10:30 AM (oAlzZ)
166
I have relatives in KC, I can only imagine how KC fans feel, knowing that the Chiefs have now lost 12 of their last 13 playoff games. Saw a stat that the Colts have now won just as many playoff games at Arrowhead Stadium as the Chiefs have. (2)
Posted by: Tom Servo at January 07, 2018 10:31 AM (V2Yro)
167
How can a day be exceedingly grey with not a cloud in the sky?
Posted by: Kevin -- Indian Tech Support at January 07, 2018 10:32 AM (+lOpA)
168
Would like to have suggestions for a good book on the Revolutionary War. Any thoughts?
Posted by: cfo mom at January 07, 2018 10:23 AM (RfzVr)
You might like Patriots by A.J. Langguth:
https://tinyurl.com/y8cdjsnw
Posted by: cfo mom at January 07, 2018 10:23 AM (RfzVr)
You might like Patriots by A.J. Langguth:
https://tinyurl.com/y8cdjsnw
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing at January 07, 2018 10:33 AM (Ki5SV)
169
Posted by: Sgt. Mom at January 07, 2018 10:22 AM (xnmPy)
To Say Nothing of the Dog, reminds me that I noticed a connection between the author's sci-fi time travel Doomsday Book (I think that was the title, it's been over 20 years) and Dorothy Sayer's LPW mystery The Nine Tailors. Bell ringing and an influenza outbreak to be specific. It made me wonder if she had read Nine Tailors shortly before writing her own book.
To Say Nothing of the Dog, reminds me that I noticed a connection between the author's sci-fi time travel Doomsday Book (I think that was the title, it's been over 20 years) and Dorothy Sayer's LPW mystery The Nine Tailors. Bell ringing and an influenza outbreak to be specific. It made me wonder if she had read Nine Tailors shortly before writing her own book.
Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at January 07, 2018 10:33 AM (rp9xB)
170
166 I have relatives in KC, I can only imagine how KC fans feel, knowing that the Chiefs have now lost 12 of their last 13 playoff games. Saw a stat that the Colts have now won just as many playoff games at Arrowhead Stadium as the Chiefs have. (2)
Posted by: Tom Servo at January 07, 2018 10:31 AM (V2Yro)
Warms my heart with monotonous failure.
Posted by: Tom Servo at January 07, 2018 10:31 AM (V2Yro)
Warms my heart with monotonous failure.
Posted by: eleven at January 07, 2018 10:34 AM (+lOpA)
171
I didn't watch a lick of E-nfl this year, and won't the rest of the way either, but it warms my heart that the Los Angeles team got their butts kicked as well.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:20 AM (Pz4pT)
There's a team in LA?
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:20 AM (Pz4pT)
There's a team in LA?
Posted by: Los Angeles residents at January 07, 2018 10:34 AM (ANIFC)
Posted by: Darth Randall at January 07, 2018 10:34 AM (6n332)
173
165 Acoording to Wiki the term was lready in use before the comic,in fact he was given the name because of it.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_police-related_slang_terms
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_police-related_slang_terms
Posted by: steevy at January 07, 2018 10:34 AM (LiyEm)
174
aka "dick" - see W.C. Fields "The Bank Dick".
dick as slang for a detective goes back at least to the 19th century, possibly earlier.
dick as slang for a detective goes back at least to the 19th century, possibly earlier.
Posted by: Tom Servo at January 07, 2018 10:34 AM (V2Yro)
175
I'm currently reading - well, studying would be more appropriate - Celestial Navigation, a home study course. Do I own a boat? Do I plan on buying a boat? Am I going to be responsible for getting a boat from point A to point B anytime soon? No to all... but I like learning about old skills and technology, and there's something about it that appeals to me.
Posted by: PabloD at January 07, 2018 10:34 AM (uoI82)
176
Since you clued me to The Great Upheaval, that is high praise and guarantees I'll dig into it shortly.
Posted by: Captain Hate at January 07, 2018 10:17 AM (y7DUB)
That's one of the books I bought but haven't read. I still can't get over the fact that I found a first edition hardcover in the bargain bin in a supermarket, mixed with diet books, children's books, and romance novels. How the hell did that get in there?
Posted by: rickl at January 07, 2018 10:24 AM (sdi6R)
Stop whatever you are doing, and start reading!
And since there was a question about Revolutionary War earlier, while this book is actually the post-war period, I think it's a very good introduction to the times in which the early Republic was getting its land legs under it.
Posted by: Captain Hate at January 07, 2018 10:17 AM (y7DUB)
That's one of the books I bought but haven't read. I still can't get over the fact that I found a first edition hardcover in the bargain bin in a supermarket, mixed with diet books, children's books, and romance novels. How the hell did that get in there?
Posted by: rickl at January 07, 2018 10:24 AM (sdi6R)
Stop whatever you are doing, and start reading!
And since there was a question about Revolutionary War earlier, while this book is actually the post-war period, I think it's a very good introduction to the times in which the early Republic was getting its land legs under it.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:35 AM (Pz4pT)
177
Bought my eldest the hard cover edition of
Shelby Foote's trilogy for Christmas.
Posted by: cfo mom
Here's a disturbing development. I put TCW in my Amazon cart yesterday at $75, and this morning, after I left my post describing my intention to but it, they informed me the price had risen to $91. Perhaps they read the book thread. **adjusts tinfoil**
Shelby Foote's trilogy for Christmas.
Posted by: cfo mom
Here's a disturbing development. I put TCW in my Amazon cart yesterday at $75, and this morning, after I left my post describing my intention to but it, they informed me the price had risen to $91. Perhaps they read the book thread. **adjusts tinfoil**
Posted by: pep at January 07, 2018 10:35 AM (LAe3v)
178
For those of you who are members of Amazon Prime, Anne Cleeland's Murder in Containment is available for free
Posted by: artemis at January 07, 2018 10:36 AM (AwPyG)
179
I have relatives in KC, I can only imagine how KC fans feel, knowing that the Chiefs have now lost 12 of their last 13 playoff games. Saw a stat that the Colts have now won just as many playoff games at Arrowhead Stadium as the Chiefs have. (2)
Posted by: Tom Servo at January 07, 2018 10:31 AM (V2Yro)
That is a beautiful thing.
Posted by: Tom Servo at January 07, 2018 10:31 AM (V2Yro)
That is a beautiful thing.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:36 AM (Pz4pT)
180
167 How can a day be exceedingly grey with not a cloud in the sky?
Posted by: Kevin -- Indian Tech Support at January 07, 2018 10:32 AM (+lOpA)
The excerpt says so. It's Arctic twilight, in the days before the Sun peeks above the horizon for the first time in months.
Posted by: Kevin -- Indian Tech Support at January 07, 2018 10:32 AM (+lOpA)
The excerpt says so. It's Arctic twilight, in the days before the Sun peeks above the horizon for the first time in months.
Posted by: rickl at January 07, 2018 10:36 AM (sdi6R)
181
Explosion at Stockholm metro station
Posted by: josephistan at January 07, 2018 10:37 AM (ANIFC)
182
I didn't watch a lick of E-nfl this year, and won't the rest of the way either, but it warms my heart that the Los Angeles team got their butts kicked as well.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:20 AM (Pz4pT)
There's a team in LA?
Posted by: Los Angeles residents at January 07, 2018 10:34 AM (ANIFC)
The article I saw mentioned the 20,000 empty seats in the LA Mausoleum.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:20 AM (Pz4pT)
There's a team in LA?
Posted by: Los Angeles residents at January 07, 2018 10:34 AM (ANIFC)
The article I saw mentioned the 20,000 empty seats in the LA Mausoleum.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:38 AM (Pz4pT)
183
Haven't read that London story in ages. Am I misremembering that the protagonist ultimately fails as he builds his fire in exactly the wrong place and nature punishes his stupidity? Thus the story really should be called "How Not To Build A Fire"?
Just finished the 7th book of The Expanse series by James S.A. Corey, Persepolis Rising. Great stuff and I love the series to distraction. Have downloaded Leviathan Wakes to start the series all over again as I await, very impatiently, book 8 in December' 18.
Am thinking about either buying a complete set of Harry Harrison's Stainless Steel Rat novels, or a complete set of Pournelle's John Christian Falkenberg stories. Or, best yet, all of Keith Laumer's Retief and Bolo tales.
Pehaps I should just capitulate and embrace the healing power of "and".
Just finished the 7th book of The Expanse series by James S.A. Corey, Persepolis Rising. Great stuff and I love the series to distraction. Have downloaded Leviathan Wakes to start the series all over again as I await, very impatiently, book 8 in December' 18.
Am thinking about either buying a complete set of Harry Harrison's Stainless Steel Rat novels, or a complete set of Pournelle's John Christian Falkenberg stories. Or, best yet, all of Keith Laumer's Retief and Bolo tales.
Pehaps I should just capitulate and embrace the healing power of "and".
Posted by: Sharkman at January 07, 2018 10:38 AM (0oDnb)
184
I'm currently reading - well, studying would be more appropriate - Celestial Navigation, a home study course. Do I own a boat? Do I plan on buying a boat? Am I going to be responsible for getting a boat from point A to point B anytime soon? No to all... but I like learning about old skills and technology, and there's something about it that appeals to me.
Posted by: PabloD
---
Heh - I'm as landlocked as you and yet, American Practical Navigator by Bowditch stares at me from the corner of my desk.
What the hell am I doing with a sextant in the middle of Ohio?
Posted by: PabloD
---
Heh - I'm as landlocked as you and yet, American Practical Navigator by Bowditch stares at me from the corner of my desk.
What the hell am I doing with a sextant in the middle of Ohio?
Posted by: Tonypete at January 07, 2018 10:38 AM (tr2D7)
Posted by: cfo mom at January 07, 2018 10:38 AM (RfzVr)
186
181 Damn right wing nationalists again!
Posted by: steevy at January 07, 2018 10:38 AM (LiyEm)
187
The excerpt says so. It's Arctic twilight, in the days before the Sun peeks above the horizon for the first time in months.
Well shut my mouth.
Well shut my mouth.
Posted by: eleven at January 07, 2018 10:38 AM (+lOpA)
188
One of the many reasons I have pretty much stopped reading the NY Times book reviews (and many others) is that seemingly every single one in recent memory has had a political component to it.
I've pretty much given up on reviewers entirely, because it sure seems as if everything is being reviewed not by the quality of the product, but by the skin color, sexual orientation, or strident leftism of the producer.
Black gay leftist? FIVE STARS!
I've pretty much given up on reviewers entirely, because it sure seems as if everything is being reviewed not by the quality of the product, but by the skin color, sexual orientation, or strident leftism of the producer.
Black gay leftist? FIVE STARS!
Posted by: BeckoningChasm at January 07, 2018 10:38 AM (l9m7l)
189
Just finished "The Greatest Knight," a bio of William Marshal of England. Interesting and fairly quick read.
Posted by: That Deplorable SOB Van Owen at January 07, 2018 10:39 AM (ykXwU)
190
Andy Reid is the General McClellan of the NFL. He's great at organizing & team building, but doesn't have the killer instinct when it comes time to face the enemy. But he still thinks he's Tom Landry (or Napoleon, in McClellan's case).
Posted by: josephistan at January 07, 2018 10:40 AM (ANIFC)
Posted by: davidt at January 07, 2018 10:40 AM (FdNEK)
192
175 I'm currently reading - well, studying would be more appropriate - Celestial Navigation, a home study course. Do I own a boat? Do I plan on buying a boat? Am I going to be responsible for getting a boat from point A to point B anytime soon? No to all... but I like learning about old skills and technology, and there's something about it that appeals to me.
Posted by: PabloD at January 07, 2018 10:34 AM (uoI82)
Also useful for desert navigation. Basically anywhere without landmarks.
175 I'm currently reading - well, studying would be more appropriate - Celestial Navigation, a home study course. Do I own a boat? Do I plan on buying a boat? Am I going to be responsible for getting a boat from point A to point B anytime soon? No to all... but I like learning about old skills and technology, and there's something about it that appeals to me.
Posted by: PabloD at January 07, 2018 10:34 AM (uoI82)
Also useful for desert navigation. Basically anywhere without landmarks.
Posted by: IllTemperedCur at January 07, 2018 10:41 AM (eXA4G)
193
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:28 AM (Pz4pT)
Winik is a superb narrator. I was locked into Great Upheaval in the preface when he told how Peter the Great watched his parents get butchered in the Kremlin as a young child and by the age of sixteen oversaw the torture and death of every fucking one of the guilty. Winik was very effusive with praise for Simon Schama's Citizens being a source for the French part of his book. Citizens is an incredibly encyclopedic accounting of the French Revolution but Winik tells an abbreviated story much more effectively imo.
Winik is a superb narrator. I was locked into Great Upheaval in the preface when he told how Peter the Great watched his parents get butchered in the Kremlin as a young child and by the age of sixteen oversaw the torture and death of every fucking one of the guilty. Winik was very effusive with praise for Simon Schama's Citizens being a source for the French part of his book. Citizens is an incredibly encyclopedic accounting of the French Revolution but Winik tells an abbreviated story much more effectively imo.
Posted by: Captain Hate at January 07, 2018 10:41 AM (y7DUB)
194
I got Daniel Everett, Chomsky-hater, 'How Language Began'.
Unfortunately it is not a story of how our languages began. It isn't even really a story. It's an argument, delivered repetitiously, about how language isn't innate, but is an "invention". He considers Chomsky to be wrong.
Specifically language (at its most basic) is an invention by homo-erectus, millions of years ago. Our brains and voice-organs likely evolved to finetune our abilities in language. If Og were able to build standard tools, then Og had the ability to say "Og make spearhead". Stuff like recursive grammar came later, if at all - some tribes still don't have it.
It is full of insights but overall a bit boring, because repetitive. I suppose that style does help hammer the message across... that Chomsky is wrong.
Unfortunately it is not a story of how our languages began. It isn't even really a story. It's an argument, delivered repetitiously, about how language isn't innate, but is an "invention". He considers Chomsky to be wrong.
Specifically language (at its most basic) is an invention by homo-erectus, millions of years ago. Our brains and voice-organs likely evolved to finetune our abilities in language. If Og were able to build standard tools, then Og had the ability to say "Og make spearhead". Stuff like recursive grammar came later, if at all - some tribes still don't have it.
It is full of insights but overall a bit boring, because repetitive. I suppose that style does help hammer the message across... that Chomsky is wrong.
Posted by: boulder terlit hobo at January 07, 2018 10:41 AM (6FqZa)
195
116 >>> If my cats were as big as my dog, I'd be dead by now.
At their current size, they have aready done their meal planning. "When he kicks off he will provide three weeks of meat."
Posted by: fluffy at January 07, 2018 10:09 AM (cHbmY)
They can cut us up like Taun-tauns and crawl inside for warmth.
At their current size, they have aready done their meal planning. "When he kicks off he will provide three weeks of meat."
Posted by: fluffy at January 07, 2018 10:09 AM (cHbmY)
They can cut us up like Taun-tauns and crawl inside for warmth.
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at January 07, 2018 10:42 AM (qJtVm)
196
A ceiling fan and lighter fluid,but mostly a ceiling fan...
Posted by: steevy at January 07, 2018 10:42 AM (LiyEm)
197
That is weird pep. Usually if I leave something in my cart the price goes down. But I have never put something in my cart and then mentioned my intention to buy in any posts or emails. Try opening up an incognito window and see what the price says. Then you'll know if you need the tinfoil or not. I suggest heavy duty.
BTW I paid just over $75 for the hardcover set when I bought last month.
BTW I paid just over $75 for the hardcover set when I bought last month.
Posted by: cfo mom at January 07, 2018 10:42 AM (RfzVr)
198
"A piece of steak" is also worth mentioning by Jack London. Especially since you warned people off his other work. It is one of his best short stories.
Posted by: Gentlemen, this is democracy manifest at January 07, 2018 10:43 AM (LWu6U)
199
Pretty early in the morning for that gem, Muldoon. BTW, have you written anything new since your WWII woodchucks in artillery shells epic? Anxiously waiting.
Posted by: RI Red
*******
I went a little different direction in my latest.
Muldoon's Library of Limericks, Volume 1
A nice little bathroom book with over 250 original Muldoon limericks. Available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats.
Currently #7,243 in the Books / Humor / Verse / Irish folklore / Limerick form / Poetry / By guys named Muldoon category on Amazon. Woot!
All proceeds go to the Muldoon Booze and Cigars for Gentlemen of a Certain Age Fund.
Posted by: RI Red
*******
I went a little different direction in my latest.
Muldoon's Library of Limericks, Volume 1
A nice little bathroom book with over 250 original Muldoon limericks. Available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats.
Currently #7,243 in the Books / Humor / Verse / Irish folklore / Limerick form / Poetry / By guys named Muldoon category on Amazon. Woot!
All proceeds go to the Muldoon Booze and Cigars for Gentlemen of a Certain Age Fund.
Posted by: Muldoon at January 07, 2018 10:43 AM (wPiJc)
200
didn't watch, don't know. but, once again, it sounds like kansas city saw the best of andy reid. best assistant coach ever.
Posted by: chavez the hugo at January 07, 2018 10:43 AM (KP5rU)
Posted by: BourbonChicken at January 07, 2018 10:43 AM (rnAwa)
202
so the Hawaiian snack bar malfunctioned again in Sweden?
Posted by: boulder terlit hobo at January 07, 2018 10:43 AM (6FqZa)
203
I decided one year to read James Jones started with the Merry Month of May about the French student revolts. Never got back to his other stuff. Thin Red Line, Here to Eternity, etc
He's my favorite author. I've read all of his works several times, except Viet Journal which I was never able to find.
He's my favorite author. I've read all of his works several times, except Viet Journal which I was never able to find.
Posted by: JT at January 07, 2018 10:44 AM (HC4J9)
204
Thanks for the Recommendations on Alternative History.
Yes Newt did write a Alt History book where the Japanese won Pearl Habor,
I was listening to OPERATION THUNDERBOLT and Malta Siege 1565 and I needed something fun to read.
If you are a Audiobook Junkie I can't recommend the Hard Luck Hank series. It's read as HANK and it's really funny haven't laughed during a book like this, no politics or SJW just fun which is getting so rare in Sci FI books.
Yes Newt did write a Alt History book where the Japanese won Pearl Habor,
I was listening to OPERATION THUNDERBOLT and Malta Siege 1565 and I needed something fun to read.
If you are a Audiobook Junkie I can't recommend the Hard Luck Hank series. It's read as HANK and it's really funny haven't laughed during a book like this, no politics or SJW just fun which is getting so rare in Sci FI books.
Posted by: Patrick From Ohio at January 07, 2018 10:46 AM (XydjG)
205
For those who are not adverse to something unusual, I really recommend "A Wild Sheep Chase" by Haruki Murakami. It has some of the most amazing plot twists one can ever imagine, and is extremely hard to categorize: I'd say "surreal mystery with a touch of magical realism."
Posted by: shibumi at January 07, 2018 10:47 AM (aT+Bx)
206
Especially since you warned people off his other work. It is one of his best short stories.
Posted by: Gentlemen, this is democracy manifest at January 07, 2018 10:43 AM (LWu6U)
Not true....
I specifically praised his short stories, and that one is particularly good!
Posted by: Gentlemen, this is democracy manifest at January 07, 2018 10:43 AM (LWu6U)
Not true....
I specifically praised his short stories, and that one is particularly good!
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at January 07, 2018 10:47 AM (wYseH)
207
book reviewers: the same goes for so called journalist. most are flaming liberals who see none of the flaws in their birds of a feather and see every zit on others. DJT on the other hand, may be my salvation as he drives them all to the loony bin.
Posted by: politics uber alles at January 07, 2018 10:48 AM (DOPuI)
208
Looks like shibumi has recovered from her coma. How's the food at the hospital? Did anyone send flowers?
Posted by: boulder terlit hobo at January 07, 2018 10:49 AM (6FqZa)
209
dick as slang for a detective goes back at least to the 19th century,
******
My question is, why do we call them detectives? Wouldn't 'detector' be more grammatically fitting?
We don't call directors 'directives', after all.
Trash collectors aren't called trach collectives?
Oliver Cromwell wasn't Lord Protective.
******
My question is, why do we call them detectives? Wouldn't 'detector' be more grammatically fitting?
We don't call directors 'directives', after all.
Trash collectors aren't called trach collectives?
Oliver Cromwell wasn't Lord Protective.
Posted by: Muldoon at January 07, 2018 10:50 AM (wPiJc)
210
>>Not true....
>>I specifically praised his short stories, and that one is particularly good!
Nobody reads the posts.
>>I specifically praised his short stories, and that one is particularly good!
Nobody reads the posts.
Posted by: JackStraw at January 07, 2018 10:50 AM (/tuJf)
211
You get an electric "shock" to condition you to stay inside the box. Ain't nobody escaping my box, bitchez!
Posted by: B. F. Skinner at January 07, 2018 10:51 AM (/qEW2)
212
Tonypete - nice to know I'm not the only one. I got a Davis Mark 3 for practicing taking sights - I couldn't justify getting something more expensive. Of course, right now my location is socked in by fog, which sucks because I wanted to see the Mars / Jupiter conjunction this morning.
Posted by: PabloD at January 07, 2018 10:51 AM (uoI82)
213
I finished reading The Hoarder in Your by Robin Zasio. My next-door neighbor hasn't taken trash out for more than a year after the township received complaints (including mine) about the two years of bags piled along the front of his house. Making him carry those bags to the street upset him enough that he started covering his windows with cardboard boxes, too. The book was mostly about combatting tendencies in loved ones, though.
I have James S.A. Corey'sLeviathan Wakes near the reading chair. I left it home when I was traveling, so I renewed it. So far, so good on the characters. Was recommended by a gal whose opinion I value.
I have James S.A. Corey'sLeviathan Wakes near the reading chair. I left it home when I was traveling, so I renewed it. So far, so good on the characters. Was recommended by a gal whose opinion I value.
Posted by: NaughtyPine at January 07, 2018 10:52 AM (G8B7r)
214
OK, I think I'm going to curl up inside a blanket and read some true crime writing by Colin Wilson.
Hope you all have a lovely Sunday.
Hope you all have a lovely Sunday.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing at January 07, 2018 10:53 AM (Ki5SV)
215
Just finished "The Greatest Knight," a bio of William Marshal of England. Interesting and fairly quick read.
Posted by: That Deplorable SOB Van Owen at January 07, 2018 10:39 AM (ykXwU)
William Marshal was an amazing dude. Just living to the age of 70 or so was an accomplishment in those times, but he did it while fighting for his life most of the time. I haven't been able to find a tv miniseries or movie about his life, but I can't believe no one's made one yet.
Posted by: That Deplorable SOB Van Owen at January 07, 2018 10:39 AM (ykXwU)
William Marshal was an amazing dude. Just living to the age of 70 or so was an accomplishment in those times, but he did it while fighting for his life most of the time. I haven't been able to find a tv miniseries or movie about his life, but I can't believe no one's made one yet.
Posted by: right wing yankee at January 07, 2018 10:53 AM (obZ4W)
216
Looks like shibumi has recovered from her coma. How's the food at the hospital? Did anyone send flowers?
--
Rumor has is that shibumi has accidentally and completely unintentionally acquired "a guy."
It's all very mysterious and unexpected.
--
Rumor has is that shibumi has accidentally and completely unintentionally acquired "a guy."
It's all very mysterious and unexpected.
Posted by: shibumi's cat at January 07, 2018 10:53 AM (aT+Bx)
217
99: old worn paperbacks give blithering idiot Lauren her beige to taupe scheme. Hope they smell like mildew.
Posted by: CN at January 07, 2018 10:54 AM (5gaNQ)
218
Speaking of "strange things done in the midnight sun", if you have a weak stomach don't goggle or bing "Sour Toe Cocktail Club" in Dawson City Yukon.
It's a real thing.
https://dawsoncity.ca/attraction/sourtoe-cocktail-club/
It's a real thing.
https://dawsoncity.ca/attraction/sourtoe-cocktail-club/
Posted by: Muldoon at January 07, 2018 10:55 AM (wPiJc)
Posted by: mustbequantum at January 07, 2018 10:55 AM (MIKMs)
220
Cops were called Dicks. See: W C Fields in The Bank Dick. A security guard.
Posted by: PhilDirt at January 07, 2018 10:56 AM (/B9LS)
221
Cats don't put up with our shite the way dogs do. If my cats were as big as my dog, I'd be dead by now.
Posted by: BurtTC
Cats being descended from huge hunting animals and dogs from scrawny scavengers.
That's why dogs just look at you mostly with a dumb look on their face while cats stare at your throat and dream of the old days when they were big enough to rip it out.
Posted by: BurtTC
Cats being descended from huge hunting animals and dogs from scrawny scavengers.
That's why dogs just look at you mostly with a dumb look on their face while cats stare at your throat and dream of the old days when they were big enough to rip it out.
Posted by: Sharkman at January 07, 2018 10:56 AM (0oDnb)
222
Just finished the 7th book of The Expanse series by James S.A. Corey, Persepolis Rising. Great stuff and I love the series to distraction. Have downloaded Leviathan Wakes to start the series all over again as I await, very impatiently, book 8 in December' 18.
Posted by: Sharkman at January 07, 2018 10:38 AM
Oh, dear. Does this meanI won't be able to read this as a stand-alone?
Posted by: Sharkman at January 07, 2018 10:38 AM
Oh, dear. Does this meanI won't be able to read this as a stand-alone?
Posted by: NaughtyPine at January 07, 2018 10:57 AM (G8B7r)
223
Posted by: JTB at January 07, 2018 09:35 AM (V+03K)
"The Last Lion" is probably the finest (partial) biography that you'll ever read.
"The Last Lion" is probably the finest (partial) biography that you'll ever read.
Posted by: naturalfake at January 07, 2018 10:59 AM (9q7Dl)
224
That's why dogs just look at you mostly with a dumb look on their
face while cats stare at your throat and dream of the old days when they
were big enough to rip it out.
--
As long as you keep the high quality food coming, and the treats, and the special cat milk coming, we're able to keep the homicidal feelings in check.
However, you know those times when you catch us looking at you with an expression that says "the human is an idiot?"
That's exactly what we're thinking.
But you amuse us, so we stay.
That's why dogs just look at you mostly with a dumb look on their
face while cats stare at your throat and dream of the old days when they
were big enough to rip it out.
--
As long as you keep the high quality food coming, and the treats, and the special cat milk coming, we're able to keep the homicidal feelings in check.
However, you know those times when you catch us looking at you with an expression that says "the human is an idiot?"
That's exactly what we're thinking.
But you amuse us, so we stay.
Posted by: shibumi's cat at January 07, 2018 10:59 AM (aT+Bx)
225
84 "64 Anyone else know of some good Alternative History books"
"The years of Rice and Salt" (2002). The Black Death wipes out 99% of the European population, and the world develops into two great spheres of influence perennially in conflict, the Chinese federation and the Islamic World.
Look, I love Kim Stanley Robinson and I love that book. But it's basically a snuff fantasy, imagining how much better the world would be without all those Christians. Try to imagine writing a similarly-themed book where, instead of Christians, all the Muslims or Hindus or Chinese or Africans were killed. It wouldn't even be published.
"The years of Rice and Salt" (2002). The Black Death wipes out 99% of the European population, and the world develops into two great spheres of influence perennially in conflict, the Chinese federation and the Islamic World.
Look, I love Kim Stanley Robinson and I love that book. But it's basically a snuff fantasy, imagining how much better the world would be without all those Christians. Try to imagine writing a similarly-themed book where, instead of Christians, all the Muslims or Hindus or Chinese or Africans were killed. It wouldn't even be published.
Posted by: Jim S. at January 07, 2018 11:02 AM (ynUnH)
226
Just finished "The Greatest Knight," a bio of William Marshal of England. Interesting and fairly quick read.
Posted by: That Deplorable SOB Van Owen at January 07, 2018 10:39 AM (ykXwU)
William
Marshal was an amazing dude. Just living to the age of 70 or so was an
accomplishment in those times, but he did it while fighting for his life
most of the time. I haven't been able to find a tv miniseries or movie
about his life, but I can't believe no one's made one yet. Posted by: right wing yankee at January 07, 2018 10:53 AM (obZ4W)
=====
Darn it! I saw that and didn't pick it up. Good to know that it was good, so if I have a dime (IL taxes), I will look again.
for rickl: My go-to CDs are from WalMart bargain bins -- over $30 apiece for ordering from amazon but $1 from bins for Baroque stuff from StMartin inthe Fields, Marriner.
Posted by: That Deplorable SOB Van Owen at January 07, 2018 10:39 AM (ykXwU)
William
Marshal was an amazing dude. Just living to the age of 70 or so was an
accomplishment in those times, but he did it while fighting for his life
most of the time. I haven't been able to find a tv miniseries or movie
about his life, but I can't believe no one's made one yet. Posted by: right wing yankee at January 07, 2018 10:53 AM (obZ4W)
=====
Darn it! I saw that and didn't pick it up. Good to know that it was good, so if I have a dime (IL taxes), I will look again.
for rickl: My go-to CDs are from WalMart bargain bins -- over $30 apiece for ordering from amazon but $1 from bins for Baroque stuff from StMartin inthe Fields, Marriner.
Posted by: mustbequantum at January 07, 2018 11:03 AM (MIKMs)
227
I get raser treatment in Thairand on my thingy, now all my fliends call me "White".
Posted by: Mr. Phang at January 07, 2018 11:04 AM (/qEW2)
228
The left has gone insane over net neutrality, which I think is mostly driven by their fear that they will have to pay more for high data usage.
What we really need is an internet bill that forces companies to email every individual a report on what data they have collected periodically.
That, and a ban on bias in search and news feeds.
This is the opposite of what the Left wants, and I think the real push for common carrier was to facilitate outlawing Drudge, but the world is upside down.
What we really need is an internet bill that forces companies to email every individual a report on what data they have collected periodically.
That, and a ban on bias in search and news feeds.
This is the opposite of what the Left wants, and I think the real push for common carrier was to facilitate outlawing Drudge, but the world is upside down.
Posted by: Gentlemen, this is democracy manifest at January 07, 2018 11:04 AM (LWu6U)
229
224: I've known some pretty sweet docile kitties in my day, including a very doggy Siamese named Saki McGillicuddy who played fetch and was as cuddly as any dog and begged for food in the same way, sort of did pirouettes.
Posted by: CN at January 07, 2018 11:05 AM (5gaNQ)
230
Would love to see a "guilty list" by folks on the books they *shouldn't* like. For me, a libertarian, I think Grapes of Wrath is a masterpiece.
Posted by: Libertarian at January 07, 2018 11:06 AM (x6xb4)
231
For those who are not adverse to something unusual, I really recommend "A Wild Sheep Chase" by Haruki Murakami. It has some of the most amazing plot twists one can ever imagine, and is extremely hard to categorize: I'd say "surreal mystery with a touch of magical realism."
Posted by: shibumi at January 07, 2018 10:47 AM (aT+Bx)
That was Murakami's first novel published in the US.
I think overall it's also his best novel in that it's has all of his strengths and none of his weaknesses.
His other novels go deeper but everything that is Murakami is there in "A Wild Sheep Chase".
Plus, it's a fun read. So, bonus!
Posted by: shibumi at January 07, 2018 10:47 AM (aT+Bx)
That was Murakami's first novel published in the US.
I think overall it's also his best novel in that it's has all of his strengths and none of his weaknesses.
His other novels go deeper but everything that is Murakami is there in "A Wild Sheep Chase".
Plus, it's a fun read. So, bonus!
Posted by: naturalfake at January 07, 2018 11:06 AM (9q7Dl)
232
While checking out MPPP's author page on Amazon I notice that Amazon is trying to push that nasty piece of fiction on PDT by placing it in the "based on your viewing history'' recommendations. I thought WTF! My viewing history lately consists of books for the grandkids, Georgette Heyer, Stella Riley and M.C. Beaton. Methinks someone is trying to push that disgusting book.
BTW..Georgette Heyer fans will like Beaton's Poor Relations series. They are kind of a hoot. Must be read in order.
BTW..Georgette Heyer fans will like Beaton's Poor Relations series. They are kind of a hoot. Must be read in order.
Posted by: Tuna at January 07, 2018 11:07 AM (jm1YL)
233
"Bartender, was I in here last night, and did I spend a brand new twenty dollar bill?"
The Bank Dick is one of my favorite movies.
The Bank Dick is one of my favorite movies.
Posted by: Gentlemen, this is democracy manifest at January 07, 2018 11:07 AM (LWu6U)
Posted by: Jim S. at January 07, 2018 11:08 AM (ynUnH)
235
The same sorts who are undermining the current Administration.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:28 AM (Pz4pT)
When I was reading this, I kept thinking about how some things never change. We tend to think politics is dirtier than ever, but, no. Not really.
I haven't finished it, either. I got distracted with life. So, on my short list to finish this year.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 07, 2018 10:28 AM (Pz4pT)
When I was reading this, I kept thinking about how some things never change. We tend to think politics is dirtier than ever, but, no. Not really.
I haven't finished it, either. I got distracted with life. So, on my short list to finish this year.
Posted by: April at January 07, 2018 11:08 AM (e8PP1)
236
Speaking of navigation, celestial and otherwise, I fondly remember my final exam in 1988 at Naval Officer Candidate School in the navigation course, where the correct answer to the exam, which consisted of following a course laid out in the instructions using both navigation methods (obviously), was running aground.
And of course if you did everything correctly you ran aground about 15 minutes before the end of the exam period. Just enough time to assume you screwed up so you erase everything in a panic and try to start over, because "no way the correct answer could be running aground!!!!!"
Heh. I got an A.
And of course if you did everything correctly you ran aground about 15 minutes before the end of the exam period. Just enough time to assume you screwed up so you erase everything in a panic and try to start over, because "no way the correct answer could be running aground!!!!!"
Heh. I got an A.
Posted by: Sharkman at January 07, 2018 11:09 AM (0oDnb)
237
CFO Mom @147 --- Try "The First Salute" by Tuchman
Posted by: Lurking Cynic at January 07, 2018 11:09 AM (RNwtH)
238
Lololol smart cats. Yeah, I've had one or two. These guys... they are not on that list. If their prey were any smarter than dry kibble, they would have starved to death years ago.
Hell, even dry kibble sometimes eludes their best efforts.
Hell, even dry kibble sometimes eludes their best efforts.
Posted by: hogmartin at January 07, 2018 11:09 AM (y87Qq)
239
Posted by: right wing yankee at January 07, 2018 10:53 AM (obZ4W)
Marshal pissed off some of the most vicious monarchs ever to sit on the English throne (he decided at the last moment to kill Richard Lion Heart's horse rather than skewer the Prince on his lance), and ended up as their most trusted adviser.
Marshal pissed off some of the most vicious monarchs ever to sit on the English throne (he decided at the last moment to kill Richard Lion Heart's horse rather than skewer the Prince on his lance), and ended up as their most trusted adviser.
Posted by: That Deplorable SOB Van Owen at January 07, 2018 11:10 AM (ykXwU)
240
As for reading, just finished Theodore Dalrymple's "Life at the Bottom". It confirms a lot of my own feelings on the topic. I don't know how he manages to stay unscathed by the SJWs who are all into low "culture", I would have thought they'd have driven him into hiding
Posted by: CN at January 07, 2018 11:10 AM (5gaNQ)
241
I received a couple gift cards for Powells books for Christmas. I went to their website and ordered a bunch of books from their warehouses, and picked them up at the store, so no shipping charges. I got 14 books for $17.70.
Posted by: Jim S. at January 07, 2018 11:11 AM (ynUnH)
242
What was he doing with a prince on his lance? kinky.
Posted by: gorillaexchange, formerly of goats at January 07, 2018 11:12 AM (aPGHi)
243
Oh, dear. Does this mean I won't be able to read this as a stand-alone?
Posted by: NaughtyPine
It means you have embarked on a truly excellent space opera that you will return to over and over again.
Posted by: NaughtyPine
It means you have embarked on a truly excellent space opera that you will return to over and over again.
Posted by: Sharkman at January 07, 2018 11:13 AM (0oDnb)
244
That was Murakami's first novel published in the US.
I think overall it's also his best novel in that it's has all of his strengths and none of his weaknesses.
His other novels go deeper but everything that is Murakami is there in "A Wild Sheep Chase".
Plus, it's a fun read. So, bonus!
--
I found it accidentally, and it's my favorite of his by a mile. Mostly because, from a plot standpoint, it's completely and unexpected. To me it's like being dropped from a helicopter onto a roller coaster.
While reading it, I found myself saying "WTF just happened" which to me, is one of the most astonishing and wonderful things that can happen in fiction.
I think overall it's also his best novel in that it's has all of his strengths and none of his weaknesses.
His other novels go deeper but everything that is Murakami is there in "A Wild Sheep Chase".
Plus, it's a fun read. So, bonus!
--
I found it accidentally, and it's my favorite of his by a mile. Mostly because, from a plot standpoint, it's completely and unexpected. To me it's like being dropped from a helicopter onto a roller coaster.
While reading it, I found myself saying "WTF just happened" which to me, is one of the most astonishing and wonderful things that can happen in fiction.
Posted by: shibumi at January 07, 2018 11:13 AM (aT+Bx)
245
" But, much of his writing is flavored by an insane mix of socialism and social Darwinism, and some of it is simply unreadable."
Well, yes and no
I just didn't want anyone to miss that story.
Well, yes and no
I just didn't want anyone to miss that story.
Posted by: Gentlemen, this is democracy manifest at January 07, 2018 11:14 AM (LWu6U)
246
Jim S. - nice! One of the few things I miss about PDX is Powells.
Posted by: PabloD at January 07, 2018 11:15 AM (uoI82)
247
>>>The Black Death wipes out 99% of the European population, and the world develops into two great spheres of influence perennially in conflict, the Chinese federation and the Islamic World.
The depressing thing, that may not stay in the category of "alternative history" much longer.
The depressing thing, that may not stay in the category of "alternative history" much longer.
Posted by: Steve and Cold Bear at January 07, 2018 11:15 AM (/qEW2)
248
I suspect the Chappaqua fire was started by a pair of flaming pants.
Posted by: Mr. Peebles at January 07, 2018 11:16 AM (oVJmc)
249
Posted by: Tuna at January 07, 2018 11:07 AM (jm1YL)
I like those in general, but the author *hates* her characters and takes odd moments to prove she is actually a historian and not a romance author. Heyer is much better in that she is kinder to her characters while not pretending they are perfect. I like Sabrina Chase's books (although they are completely different genre) for that reason, as well as the way Chase treats supporting characters as more than props for main-characters to emote about/around which is also a Heyer attribute.
I like those in general, but the author *hates* her characters and takes odd moments to prove she is actually a historian and not a romance author. Heyer is much better in that she is kinder to her characters while not pretending they are perfect. I like Sabrina Chase's books (although they are completely different genre) for that reason, as well as the way Chase treats supporting characters as more than props for main-characters to emote about/around which is also a Heyer attribute.
Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at January 07, 2018 11:16 AM (rp9xB)
250
Sharkman, et ux. Red Son is studying this minute, reviewing his celestial nav getting ready to take his Coasties this spring. Will come out the other side as an all ocean, unlimited tonnage deck officer of the third mate variety.
I've had a good and sometimes exciting life, but I am still envious. Vicarious is still good.
I've had a good and sometimes exciting life, but I am still envious. Vicarious is still good.
Posted by: RI Red - Expert on everything expert at January 07, 2018 11:18 AM (PtEhS)
251
222 Just finished the 7th book of The Expanse series by James S.A. Corey, Persepolis Rising. Great stuff and I love the series to distraction. Have downloaded Leviathan Wakes to start the series all over again as I await, very impatiently, book 8 in December' 18.
Posted by: Sharkman at January 07, 2
I forgot about this series, I stopped at book 3.
The one thing I think makes sense now is when the Mormons build a ARK to leave the earth and find a new Planet because the Government is hostile to babies. The book strongly hints that the Government not Pro Life because the Earth is overcrowded, which I like because you don't need it spelled out and I will never believe in Population Bomb crap.
Posted by: Sharkman at January 07, 2
I forgot about this series, I stopped at book 3.
The one thing I think makes sense now is when the Mormons build a ARK to leave the earth and find a new Planet because the Government is hostile to babies. The book strongly hints that the Government not Pro Life because the Earth is overcrowded, which I like because you don't need it spelled out and I will never believe in Population Bomb crap.
Posted by: Patrick From Ohio at January 07, 2018 11:21 AM (dKiJG)
252
BTW, I am an idiot as well as a Moron. Does ace have an amazon link so that he gets credit when I order muldoon's latest?
Posted by: RI Red - Expert on everything expert at January 07, 2018 11:22 AM (PtEhS)
253
You folk might like Declare by Tim Powers. It's a historical-fiction-spy-novel, set during and after WW2, with a hefty dose of supernatural mayhem in it. Kim Philby is a major character. It portrays communism as literally demonic. Powers writes his books by filling in the cracks of history, so that, theoretically, his books could be what actually happened. The fact that his books tend to include supernatural and sci-fi elements makes it all the better.
Posted by: Jim S. at January 07, 2018 11:22 AM (ynUnH)
254
Male gossip columnist writes a hit piece that he thinks will finally end the Trump Presidency. Problem is that he's a male gossip columnist. He's got the gravitas of a debutante and the dignity of a defrocked priest.
Posted by: Chicago Vota at January 07, 2018 11:23 AM (2ubCU)
255
all of Keith Laumer's Retief and Bolo tales.
Pehaps I should just capitulate and embrace the healing power of "and".
Posted by: Sharkman at January 07, 2018 10:38 AM (0oDnb)
Dang... can't remember the name of the short story...
Its a one off of Retief late in life... where he enters a Contest as a 'Knight of the Lily' for an old Empire?
Completely different from every other Retief story as I remember...
Pehaps I should just capitulate and embrace the healing power of "and".
Posted by: Sharkman at January 07, 2018 10:38 AM (0oDnb)
Dang... can't remember the name of the short story...
Its a one off of Retief late in life... where he enters a Contest as a 'Knight of the Lily' for an old Empire?
Completely different from every other Retief story as I remember...
Posted by: Leonidas at January 07, 2018 11:23 AM (NgKpN)
256
I've had a good and sometimes exciting life, but I am still envious. Vicarious is still good.
Posted by: RI Red
Ahh, most excellent news. Congrats to Red Son and a very heartfelt thank you for his service . . . and yours. You raised him to see the value of serving our nation and to make the effort to do so. So your bit of glory is more than just vicarious. Well done!
Posted by: RI Red
Ahh, most excellent news. Congrats to Red Son and a very heartfelt thank you for his service . . . and yours. You raised him to see the value of serving our nation and to make the effort to do so. So your bit of glory is more than just vicarious. Well done!
Posted by: Sharkman at January 07, 2018 11:23 AM (0oDnb)
257
BTW, I am an idiot as well as a Moron. Does ace have an amazon link so that he gets credit when I order muldoon's latest?
Posted by: RI Red - Expert on everything expert at January 07, 2018 11:22 AM (PtEhS)
https://www.amazon.com/?tag=aoshq-20
I think someone said it was broken a while ago?
Posted by: RI Red - Expert on everything expert at January 07, 2018 11:22 AM (PtEhS)
https://www.amazon.com/?tag=aoshq-20
I think someone said it was broken a while ago?
Posted by: hogmartin at January 07, 2018 11:24 AM (y87Qq)
258
252 BTW, I am an idiot as well as a Moron. Does ace have an amazon link so that he gets credit when I order muldoon's latest?
Posted by: RI Red - Expert on everything expert at January 07, 2018 11:22 AM (PtEhS)
----------
He sure does, RI Red. Main page, top right sidebar link
252 BTW, I am an idiot as well as a Moron. Does ace have an amazon link so that he gets credit when I order muldoon's latest?
Posted by: RI Red - Expert on everything expert at January 07, 2018 11:22 AM (PtEhS)
----------
He sure does, RI Red. Main page, top right sidebar link
Posted by: Weasel at January 07, 2018 11:25 AM (Sfs6o)
259
In that twitter post, someone also linked this article from the same magazine with the idiotic Lauren:
http://www.idealhome.co.uk/news/ways-display-books-182590
One of the ways to display books is to stack them to the ceiling on either side of a doorway.
Now, not only is this going to result in books all over the floor for anyone that has kids, pets, or a clutz like me in the house, but clearly those books are not meant to be read. If you cannot access books, you don't mean to actually use books.
Too many people buy books to seem intelligent, or to be trendy, or to display. Not read, but show off as if they read.
According to ebook data, big selling, trendy books aren't getting read. People buy them, read some, then drop the book.
http://tinyurl.com/ycj5t4fj
http://www.idealhome.co.uk/news/ways-display-books-182590
One of the ways to display books is to stack them to the ceiling on either side of a doorway.
Now, not only is this going to result in books all over the floor for anyone that has kids, pets, or a clutz like me in the house, but clearly those books are not meant to be read. If you cannot access books, you don't mean to actually use books.
Too many people buy books to seem intelligent, or to be trendy, or to display. Not read, but show off as if they read.
According to ebook data, big selling, trendy books aren't getting read. People buy them, read some, then drop the book.
http://tinyurl.com/ycj5t4fj
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 07, 2018 11:25 AM (39g3+)
260
I think someone said it was broken a while ago?
Posted by: hogmartin at January 07, 2018 11:24 AM (y87Qq)
--------
Don't look at me! I didn't do it!
Posted by: hogmartin at January 07, 2018 11:24 AM (y87Qq)
--------
Don't look at me! I didn't do it!
Posted by: Weasel at January 07, 2018 11:26 AM (Sfs6o)
261
I haven't read all the comments, so someone might have pointed this out already, but I would bet money that Lauren hasn't read any of those books and never will. They are just decoration because it occurred to the blithering idiot that a bookcase should have a few books in it. Books as decoration only isn't new. Many wealthy 19th century Philistines bought books by the yard because they wanted the appearance of having a library without actually being learned.
Posted by: Donna&&&&&&&V my laptop died at January 07, 2018 11:27 AM (L6WxG)
262
BTW, I am an idiot as well as a Moron. Does ace have an amazon link so that he gets credit when I order muldoon's latest?
Posted by: RI Red - Expert on everything expert at January 07, 2018 11:22 AM (PtEhS)
Someone mentioned the Philanthropy Extension in Chrome. I've plugged that in and I get the Green hat every time.
Posted by: RI Red - Expert on everything expert at January 07, 2018 11:22 AM (PtEhS)
Someone mentioned the Philanthropy Extension in Chrome. I've plugged that in and I get the Green hat every time.
Posted by: golfman at January 07, 2018 11:27 AM (Faeqc)
263
Netflix is going to go after the government if Net Neutrality ends, they want the right to to set bandwith without paying to send it.
Posted by: Skip at January 07, 2018 11:28 AM (aC6Sd)
264
Many wealthy 19th century Philistines bought books by the yard because they wanted the appearance of having a library without actually being learned."
Their offspring (both literal and spiritual) continue the practice today...
Their offspring (both literal and spiritual) continue the practice today...
Posted by: Anon a mouse at January 07, 2018 11:29 AM (7LY+6)
265
I gave up trying to read "The Sea Wolf" by Jack London because it was obvious the guy was contriving every situation possible merely to tell some grand tale of his philosophies and ideas on life instead of just telling a story. I liked a lot of his other work, though.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 07, 2018 11:29 AM (39g3+)
266
You folk might like Declare by Tim Powers. It's a historical-fiction-spy-novel, set during and after WW2, with a hefty dose of supernatural mayhem in it. Kim Philby is a major character. It portrays communism as literally demonic. Powers writes his books by filling in the cracks of history, so that, theoretically, his books could be what actually happened. The fact that his books tend to include supernatural and sci-fi elements makes it all the better.
Posted by: Jim S. at January 07, 2018 11:22 AM
Love this book.
Posted by: Jim S. at January 07, 2018 11:22 AM
Love this book.
Posted by: NaughtyPine at January 07, 2018 11:29 AM (G8B7r)
267
"Marshal pissed off some of the most vicious monarchs ever to sit on the English throne (he decided at the last moment to kill Richard Lion Heart's horse rather than skewer the Prince on his lance), and ended up as their most trusted adviser.''
He did have the most amazing life. From almost being executed by King Stephen when he was still a child to locking horns with King John his story is the stuff of legend. Plus you get a little romance when his arranged marriage with a very weathly heiress turns into true love. He's one of those characters in history you'd like to sit down with and ask question after question.
BTW, his biographer, Thomas Asbridge, wrote a very good book on the First Crusade. Highly recommended.
BTW, the author of "The Greatest Knight", Thomas Asbridge, has written a very good book on the First Crusade. Highly recommended
He did have the most amazing life. From almost being executed by King Stephen when he was still a child to locking horns with King John his story is the stuff of legend. Plus you get a little romance when his arranged marriage with a very weathly heiress turns into true love. He's one of those characters in history you'd like to sit down with and ask question after question.
BTW, his biographer, Thomas Asbridge, wrote a very good book on the First Crusade. Highly recommended.
BTW, the author of "The Greatest Knight", Thomas Asbridge, has written a very good book on the First Crusade. Highly recommended
Posted by: Tuna at January 07, 2018 11:30 AM (jm1YL)
268
Netflix is going to go after the government if Net Neutrality ends, "
Huh? Nutella nuttereally is over. FWIW, it had nothing to do with how much ISPs charge... only the illiterati (see DonnaAmpersand's post above) believed so.
Huh? Nutella nuttereally is over. FWIW, it had nothing to do with how much ISPs charge... only the illiterati (see DonnaAmpersand's post above) believed so.
Posted by: Anon a mouse at January 07, 2018 11:30 AM (7LY+6)
269
I picked up book 7 of The Expanse series, too. I have just been too sick with the flu to start it. I am not a sci-fy reader but I love this series. I watched the series on Netflix or Amazon and was hooked, read all the books and have been waiting impatiently for this book. I am curling up with it today. I thought it was the final book. I'm relieved its not.
Posted by: Abby at January 07, 2018 11:30 AM (Mj20n)
270
Christopher, do you think anybody has actually read Hillary's asinine tome?
Posted by: Donna&&&&&&&V my laptop died at January 07, 2018 11:30 AM (L6WxG)
271
ISTR it used to go to an AMZN landing page that was all gray boxes on white, with red accent. Kind of a familiar look, but I couldn't quite place it.
The sidebar link and the one I posted are the same thing, but I'm not seeing any indication that it's a real live big-boy referral store like you read about. So who knows. That is, I don't know if ace gets anything when you shop through it. It doesn't break, but that's because AMZN is in the business of selling you things, not breaking your page. As long as you aren't spoofing a product ID or something, they don't give a wet fart what you put after the URL.
https://www.amazon.com/?joebiden=loveseatingpaste
The sidebar link and the one I posted are the same thing, but I'm not seeing any indication that it's a real live big-boy referral store like you read about. So who knows. That is, I don't know if ace gets anything when you shop through it. It doesn't break, but that's because AMZN is in the business of selling you things, not breaking your page. As long as you aren't spoofing a product ID or something, they don't give a wet fart what you put after the URL.
https://www.amazon.com/?joebiden=loveseatingpaste
Posted by: hogmartin at January 07, 2018 11:31 AM (y87Qq)
272
Netflix is going to go after the government if Net Neutrality ends, they want the right to to set bandwith without paying to send it.
Well sure. NN didn't make things fair, it made things tilted toward Democrat Party donors. It gave Amazon, Netflix, Google etc cheaper streaming and internet costs at the expense of the ISPs. And it has language that allowed the government to control and regulate content online.
Getting rid of NN shifts the balance toward the ISPs. Its like a choice between television programming and television stations. Who gets a better deal in terms of cost and profits, the people who provide the service or the people who provide the content?
The big difference to me is that "control content" part, and the fact that government is significantly less accountable than business to economic pressure and customer dissatisfaction.
Well sure. NN didn't make things fair, it made things tilted toward Democrat Party donors. It gave Amazon, Netflix, Google etc cheaper streaming and internet costs at the expense of the ISPs. And it has language that allowed the government to control and regulate content online.
Getting rid of NN shifts the balance toward the ISPs. Its like a choice between television programming and television stations. Who gets a better deal in terms of cost and profits, the people who provide the service or the people who provide the content?
The big difference to me is that "control content" part, and the fact that government is significantly less accountable than business to economic pressure and customer dissatisfaction.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 07, 2018 11:32 AM (39g3+)
273
Christopher, do you think anybody has actually read Hillary's asinine tome?
I think several right wing pundits skimmed most of it to mine things to yell and write about. That's pretty much it, yeah.
Most of those "big seller trendy" books the only one that's ever read them is the editor. People buy them to put on their coffee table or prominently displayed on a shelf. Look at me, I have this book. Some get one to carry it around and be seen with it, say boarding a plane (like Obama). Its a prop, to sell a certain persona.
I think several right wing pundits skimmed most of it to mine things to yell and write about. That's pretty much it, yeah.
Most of those "big seller trendy" books the only one that's ever read them is the editor. People buy them to put on their coffee table or prominently displayed on a shelf. Look at me, I have this book. Some get one to carry it around and be seen with it, say boarding a plane (like Obama). Its a prop, to sell a certain persona.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 07, 2018 11:34 AM (39g3+)
274
Re 267
I've got a new iPad Pro and I find it doing some strange things when I'm typing a comment. It looked like the last sentence disappeared so I added it again, albeit in shortened form. Notice I blame the stupid machine and not myself.
I've got a new iPad Pro and I find it doing some strange things when I'm typing a comment. It looked like the last sentence disappeared so I added it again, albeit in shortened form. Notice I blame the stupid machine and not myself.
Posted by: Tuna at January 07, 2018 11:35 AM (jm1YL)
275
One of the ways to display books is to stack them to the ceiling on either side of a doorway.
=====
You must live in a more temperate climate. North walls for stacking here.
=====
You must live in a more temperate climate. North walls for stacking here.
Posted by: mustbequantum at January 07, 2018 11:36 AM (MIKMs)
276
For a short time a, The Container Store, in OhStink, TexAss, had books placed backwards on bookshelves. When I assed a minion why said books were displayed contrariwise, said minion claimed that "corporate" sent instructions to The Container Store realm to put the bindings in back to avoid triggering progressive wouldbe shop(lift)ers.
Posted by: Marooned at January 07, 2018 11:36 AM (8hRlF)
277
BTW, I am an idiot as well as a Moron. Does ace have an amazon link so that he gets credit when I order muldoon's latest?
Posted by: RI Red - Expert on everything expert at January 07, 2018 11:22 AM (PtEhS)
If you click on a link in the post, like the Theda Barra story, the do a search ibdude Amazon for another item, Ace should get the credit
Posted by: RI Red - Expert on everything expert at January 07, 2018 11:22 AM (PtEhS)
If you click on a link in the post, like the Theda Barra story, the do a search ibdude Amazon for another item, Ace should get the credit
Posted by: Votermom's phone at January 07, 2018 11:37 AM (hMwEB)
278
Thanks, all. Off to the outhouse to read limericks.
Oh, before I forget, I read Dan Brown's Origin. Don't bother. Very formulaic. I figured out the twist in the first few pages. Other than that it was the usual Catholic Church bashing, chase scenes and unlikely characters.
Probably make a great movie.
Oh, before I forget, I read Dan Brown's Origin. Don't bother. Very formulaic. I figured out the twist in the first few pages. Other than that it was the usual Catholic Church bashing, chase scenes and unlikely characters.
Probably make a great movie.
Posted by: RI Red - Expert on everything expert at January 07, 2018 11:38 AM (PtEhS)
279
Sorry to be late to the ever awesome book thread
Posted by: Votermom's phone at January 07, 2018 11:39 AM (hMwEB)
280
Looks like Bannon is clarifying and explaining and apologizing:
https://www.axios.com/scoop-bannon-sends-regret-to-trump-
1515329924-dbfe9439-59e0-4773-8d3d-079e5ee2b493.html
Looks like Bannon is clarifying and explaining and apologizing:
https://www.axios.com/scoop-bannon-sends-regret-to-trump-
1515329924-dbfe9439-59e0-4773-8d3d-079e5ee2b493.html
Posted by: Acme Trucking Enterprises, White Truck Division at January 07, 2018 11:39 AM (2FqvZ)
281
If Lauren ran a drug store, all the vitamin bottles would be turned so that the labels would be facing away from the shopper.
Posted by: Steve and Cold Bear at January 07, 2018 11:39 AM (/qEW2)
282
What's the over/under that a likeness of Fabio is on the cover of Lauren's books?
Posted by: Fritz at January 07, 2018 11:39 AM (bJ0w+)
283
I have a bunch of books that were overflowing my bookshelves. WeaselWoman became convinced that she could fit more into the same space by laying them flat rather than standing them on end like normal people do. I don't know if it saves any space but it sure as hell looks retarded.
Posted by: Weasel at January 07, 2018 11:40 AM (Sfs6o)
284
Dan Brown writes exciting idiotic crap. He is a pretty skilled author, but he steals plots and writes imbecilic, contradictory conspiracy theories in the manner of a sophist: light on evidence, reason, and logic but heavy on emotional appeal.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 07, 2018 11:40 AM (39g3+)
285
Oh, before I forget, I read Dan Brown's Origin. Don't bother. Very formulaic.
Posted by: RI Red - Expert on everything expert at January 07, 2018 11:38 AM (PtEhS)
That's the mark of authenticity, so you know Dan Brown really wrote it himself.
Posted by: RI Red - Expert on everything expert at January 07, 2018 11:38 AM (PtEhS)
That's the mark of authenticity, so you know Dan Brown really wrote it himself.
Posted by: hogmartin at January 07, 2018 11:40 AM (y87Qq)
286
''Some get one to carry it around and be seen with it, say boarding a plane (like Obama). Its a prop, to sell a certain persona.''
When I went to vote last November the lady that checked my ID had Al Franken's lastest tome prominently displayed on the table next to her. I thought when all the shit about Franken broke that she might now be slightly embarrassed about her virtue signaling at a polling place but then I thought that anyone stupid enough to read his garbage probably doesn't possess the self awareness to be embarrassed.
When I went to vote last November the lady that checked my ID had Al Franken's lastest tome prominently displayed on the table next to her. I thought when all the shit about Franken broke that she might now be slightly embarrassed about her virtue signaling at a polling place but then I thought that anyone stupid enough to read his garbage probably doesn't possess the self awareness to be embarrassed.
Posted by: Tuna at January 07, 2018 11:41 AM (jm1YL)
287
Other than that it was the usual Catholic Church bashing, chase scenes and unlikely characters. Probably make a great movie. Posted by: RI Red - Expert on everything expert at January 07, 2018 11:38 AM (PtEhS)
=====
That is why I liked Angels (ampersand) Demons better than the first big bestseller one. I could really imagine the helicopter rescuing people from the Vatican roof.
=====
That is why I liked Angels (ampersand) Demons better than the first big bestseller one. I could really imagine the helicopter rescuing people from the Vatican roof.
Posted by: mustbequantum at January 07, 2018 11:42 AM (MIKMs)
288
Posted by: Weasel at January 07, 2018 11:40 AM (Sfs6o)
Oh yes, you can fit *a lot* more books that way. With sturdy shelves it is useful, with $20 Walmart build-it-yourself shelves there is a certain amount of sagging that, fortunately, hasn't led to actual breakage yet.
Oh yes, you can fit *a lot* more books that way. With sturdy shelves it is useful, with $20 Walmart build-it-yourself shelves there is a certain amount of sagging that, fortunately, hasn't led to actual breakage yet.
Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at January 07, 2018 11:43 AM (rp9xB)
289
So reading through some Lefty blogs and MSM this morning looks like the left is going full-on to Trump is too crazy to be in the White House push for 2018.
Posted by: #neverskankles at January 07, 2018 11:45 AM (nf51H)
290
fit more into the same space by laying them flat rather than standing
them on end like normal people do. I don't know if it saves any space
but it sure as hell looks retarded.
=====
I stack flat over extra supports and vertical where there is less. You can actually fit more that way and still access titles as needed.
them on end like normal people do. I don't know if it saves any space
but it sure as hell looks retarded.
=====
I stack flat over extra supports and vertical where there is less. You can actually fit more that way and still access titles as needed.
Posted by: mustbequantum at January 07, 2018 11:46 AM (MIKMs)
291
You can double shelf paperbacks - one row in the back, another in front
Posted by: Votermom's phone at January 07, 2018 11:46 AM (hMwEB)
292
Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at January 07, 2018 11:43 AM (rp9xB)
---------
Thanks Polliwog. I figured that was probably the case but I really just wanted an excuse to complain and use the word 'retarded'.
Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at January 07, 2018 11:43 AM (rp9xB)
---------
Thanks Polliwog. I figured that was probably the case but I really just wanted an excuse to complain and use the word 'retarded'.
Posted by: Weasel at January 07, 2018 11:46 AM (Sfs6o)
293
''I like those in general, but the author *hates* her characters and takes odd moments to prove she is actually a historian and not a romance author. Heyer is much better in that she is kinder to her characters while not pretending they are perfect. I like Sabrina Chase's books (although they are completely different genre) for that reason, as well as the way Chase treats supporting characters as more than props for main-characters to emote about/around which is also a Heyer attribute.''
I didn't get that vibe but then again I listened to the Audible versions and the reader, Davina Porter(I think), did a wonderful job of characterization. She made the bits of history flow nicely into the narration.
I didn't get that vibe but then again I listened to the Audible versions and the reader, Davina Porter(I think), did a wonderful job of characterization. She made the bits of history flow nicely into the narration.
Posted by: Tuna at January 07, 2018 11:47 AM (jm1YL)
294
I think for a lot of people, especially hip urbanites, books are like talismans of learning and knowledge. You don't actually read them, you have them around to demonstrate your erudition and enlightenment. I read, you see, unlike that dolt Bush or those flyover country sister-humpers.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 07, 2018 11:47 AM (39g3+)
295
To Weasel Woman
Books can be compacted into shelves by laying down only if their hight is wasting space, if the shelf hight is correct for the books within and no room above to shelf above laying flat is useless as pulling out a book on bottom is more difficult.
Books can be compacted into shelves by laying down only if their hight is wasting space, if the shelf hight is correct for the books within and no room above to shelf above laying flat is useless as pulling out a book on bottom is more difficult.
Posted by: Skip at January 07, 2018 11:47 AM (aC6Sd)
296
Dan Brown writes exciting idiotic crap. He is a pretty skilled author,
but he steals plots and writes imbecilic, contradictory conspiracy
theories in the manner of a sophist: light on evidence, reason, and
logic but heavy on emotional appeal.
---
I've read Angels and Demons and found it really engaging and exciting.
But... I had no urge to read any other of his stuff, since it's really too commercial for me.
"Book crack that's a bit better than the norm."
but he steals plots and writes imbecilic, contradictory conspiracy
theories in the manner of a sophist: light on evidence, reason, and
logic but heavy on emotional appeal.
---
I've read Angels and Demons and found it really engaging and exciting.
But... I had no urge to read any other of his stuff, since it's really too commercial for me.
"Book crack that's a bit better than the norm."
Posted by: shibumi at January 07, 2018 11:48 AM (aT+Bx)
297
CT at 272 - that was a goal of NN, but it never got that far.
What NN simply wanted to do was to decree that the internet is a utility - thus opening the door to control. It was modeled on the (idiotic) takeover of the "airwaves" in the early days of Radio and then TV...
Progressives want control. Never forget that.
What NN simply wanted to do was to decree that the internet is a utility - thus opening the door to control. It was modeled on the (idiotic) takeover of the "airwaves" in the early days of Radio and then TV...
Progressives want control. Never forget that.
Posted by: Anon a mouse at January 07, 2018 11:48 AM (7LY+6)
298
Leonidas
That story is called "Diplomat at Arms" and is actually the first Retief story that Laumer wrote.
Pretty cool story.
That story is called "Diplomat at Arms" and is actually the first Retief story that Laumer wrote.
Pretty cool story.
Posted by: Sharkman at January 07, 2018 11:49 AM (0oDnb)
299
>>So reading through some Lefty blogs and MSM this morning looks like the left is going full-on to Trump is too crazy to be in the White House push for 2018.
They are just starting to realize that the Russia investigation is going nowhere. Well it's going somewhere but not where they want it to go.
They are just starting to realize that the Russia investigation is going nowhere. Well it's going somewhere but not where they want it to go.
Posted by: JackStraw at January 07, 2018 11:49 AM (/tuJf)
300
I think it was in C.S. Lewis's autobiography that he said something to the effect that, as a child, he was never bored because every room in the house had books. I want to have a library like that.
Posted by: Jim S. at January 07, 2018 11:51 AM (ynUnH)
301
the left is going full-on to Trump is too crazy to be in the White House "
Hmm. So it's their everyday play...
Hmm. So it's their everyday play...
Posted by: Anon a mouse at January 07, 2018 11:51 AM (7LY+6)
302
They are just starting to realize that the Russia investigation is going nowhere. Well it's going somewhere but not where they want it to go.
Posted by: JackStraw at January 07, 2018 11:49 AM (/tuJf)
With Steve Bannon explaining the 'treason' comment (link I posted above) I can hear them going from manic episode right back into depression.
Posted by: JackStraw at January 07, 2018 11:49 AM (/tuJf)
With Steve Bannon explaining the 'treason' comment (link I posted above) I can hear them going from manic episode right back into depression.
Posted by: Acme Trucking Enterprises, White Truck Division at January 07, 2018 11:52 AM (2FqvZ)
303
I'm intrigued by the Theda Bara book. The precode era had it's amazing moments, to be sure. I imagine Bara's life after the movies was pretty bland, so she's probably approve of any idea to spice it up
Posted by: CN at January 07, 2018 11:53 AM (5gaNQ)
304
I think it was in C.S. Lewis's autobiography that he said something to the effect that, as a child, he was never bored because every room in the house had books. I want to have a library like that.
Posted by: Jim S. at January 07, 2018 11:51 AM (ynUnH)
When I was a kid, I used to read the World Book. Endlessly.
With my now 50+ year old attention span, I can't stay interested unless the text is in little gray boxes.
Posted by: Jim S. at January 07, 2018 11:51 AM (ynUnH)
When I was a kid, I used to read the World Book. Endlessly.
With my now 50+ year old attention span, I can't stay interested unless the text is in little gray boxes.
Posted by: golfman at January 07, 2018 11:53 AM (Faeqc)
305
>>With Steve Bannon explaining the 'treason' comment (link I posted above) I can hear them going from manic episode right back into depression.
And soon to panic.
And soon to panic.
Posted by: JackStraw at January 07, 2018 11:55 AM (/tuJf)
306
I've read Angels and Demons and found it really engaging and exciting.
Exactly, he writes entertaining stuff that's historically trash, presented as if its true. Which is why Hollywood loves his work: it bashes all the right targets and is entertaining and suspenseful.
Exactly, he writes entertaining stuff that's historically trash, presented as if its true. Which is why Hollywood loves his work: it bashes all the right targets and is entertaining and suspenseful.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 07, 2018 11:55 AM (39g3+)
307
Posted by: Skip at January 07, 2018 11:47 AM (aC6Sd)
True, but perfect shelf height is very rare. In my case I have at least three different book heights. There are very good reasons I don't send in photos of my home library (and why there aren't books in the living room).
True, but perfect shelf height is very rare. In my case I have at least three different book heights. There are very good reasons I don't send in photos of my home library (and why there aren't books in the living room).
Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at January 07, 2018 11:55 AM (rp9xB)
308
Exactly, he writes entertaining stuff that's historically trash,
presented as if its true. Which is why Hollywood loves his work: it
bashes all the right targets and is entertaining and suspenseful.
--
Agree 100%.
And that's why I never went beyond the first book, and have never seen the filmsw.
Exciting, but not intellectually challenging or meaningful.
So... his books are essentially really fun one night stands?
Exactly, he writes entertaining stuff that's historically trash,
presented as if its true. Which is why Hollywood loves his work: it
bashes all the right targets and is entertaining and suspenseful.
--
Agree 100%.
And that's why I never went beyond the first book, and have never seen the filmsw.
Exciting, but not intellectually challenging or meaningful.
So... his books are essentially really fun one night stands?
Posted by: shibumi at January 07, 2018 11:57 AM (aT+Bx)
309
The local B an' N has a table of books marked "Books to be seen with in our Café"
I hear Dan's next book will be a scratch and sniff.
I hear Dan's next book will be a scratch and sniff.
Posted by: Burger Chef at January 07, 2018 11:59 AM (RuIsu)
310
Ok, I'm back. And, yes, I did wash my hands.
Muldoon, if you're still around, I snorted three times in 8 limericks. Can't wait till this afternoon's constitutional!
Muldoon, if you're still around, I snorted three times in 8 limericks. Can't wait till this afternoon's constitutional!
Posted by: RI Red - Expert on everything expert at January 07, 2018 11:59 AM (PtEhS)
311
MPPP's latest story reminds me of Loren Estleman's Hollywood books. He as a series about a film restorer who gets involved in mysteries involving silent and pre-Hayes code film thefts, murders etc.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 07, 2018 11:59 AM (39g3+)
312
307 - True, you have to build your own shelves to the correct size, and every shelf is not on equal spacing.
Posted by: Skip at January 07, 2018 12:00 PM (aC6Sd)
313
New thread has that new thread smell.
Posted by: hogmartin at January 07, 2018 12:02 PM (y87Qq)
314
You only really need four sizes: pocket, trade, hardbound, and oversized photo books.
I took some books down to the local bookstore recently, including a really great photobook detaliing locations Louis L'Amour wrote about (because I already had it), but they didn't take it. I talked to the clerk and he said that L'Amour's popularity has dropped, but mostly its just people don't buy photo books much any longer.
They look up pictures online or their phone instead of having them in a book to admire and enjoy.
I took some books down to the local bookstore recently, including a really great photobook detaliing locations Louis L'Amour wrote about (because I already had it), but they didn't take it. I talked to the clerk and he said that L'Amour's popularity has dropped, but mostly its just people don't buy photo books much any longer.
They look up pictures online or their phone instead of having them in a book to admire and enjoy.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 07, 2018 12:03 PM (39g3+)
315
Oh, I'm so happy. I figured that getting here so late y'all would have moved on from talking about books by now. Yay, book thread!
I'm reading "Salt" by Mark Kurlansky, on the recommendation of several people and also because I keep hounding people to read his "Cod".
I'm enjoying it quite a bit because I like learning things and I like the connections he makes. Still, I get the sense that he's a magazine writer not a book author. There's a certain vibe to it of "here's everything I learned in my research" broken up into sections.
I'm reading "Salt" by Mark Kurlansky, on the recommendation of several people and also because I keep hounding people to read his "Cod".
I'm enjoying it quite a bit because I like learning things and I like the connections he makes. Still, I get the sense that he's a magazine writer not a book author. There's a certain vibe to it of "here's everything I learned in my research" broken up into sections.
Posted by: Bandersnatch at January 07, 2018 12:03 PM (f1Id8)
316
150 A really good book on engineering disasters and how they influence design changes is To Engineer is Human by Henry Petroski.
The book is very readable and quite interesting. The subject came up in the EMT.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at January 07, 2018 10:24 AM (5Yee7)
That's an interesting approach. I have a similar book about submarines: "Disasters of the Deep" by Edwyn Gray. This is the third edition. Earlier editions were published with the title "Few Survived".
The book is an encyclopedic compendium of every known submarine accident, from famous disasters with all hands lost to minor fender-benders. It's only about accidents; it does not include wartime combat losses.
It's chock full of harrowing tales of tragedy and survival, and along the way manages to tell the story of the evolution of submarine technology.
The book is very readable and quite interesting. The subject came up in the EMT.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at January 07, 2018 10:24 AM (5Yee7)
That's an interesting approach. I have a similar book about submarines: "Disasters of the Deep" by Edwyn Gray. This is the third edition. Earlier editions were published with the title "Few Survived".
The book is an encyclopedic compendium of every known submarine accident, from famous disasters with all hands lost to minor fender-benders. It's only about accidents; it does not include wartime combat losses.
It's chock full of harrowing tales of tragedy and survival, and along the way manages to tell the story of the evolution of submarine technology.
Posted by: rickl at January 07, 2018 12:04 PM (sdi6R)
317
What the hell am I doing with a sextant in the middle of Ohio?
Posted by: Tonypete
Lewis and Clark took extensive (and quite accurate for their equipment) sextant observations. Their chronometer was state-of-art. They used a pan of mercury for a stable horizon.
There was some scandal involving the official computations years later, back in DC.
Posted by: Tonypete
Lewis and Clark took extensive (and quite accurate for their equipment) sextant observations. Their chronometer was state-of-art. They used a pan of mercury for a stable horizon.
There was some scandal involving the official computations years later, back in DC.
Posted by: pogomip at January 07, 2018 12:07 PM (EtNJx)
318
I'm reading "Salt" by Mark Kurlansky, on the recommendation of several people and also because I keep hounding people to read his "Cod".
Posted by: Bandersnatch at January 07, 2018 12:03 PM (f1Id
* swoon *
Tip - don't bother with The Big Oyster if the magazine article format bugs you. It's OK, but it ain't no Cod.
Posted by: Bandersnatch at January 07, 2018 12:03 PM (f1Id
* swoon *
Tip - don't bother with The Big Oyster if the magazine article format bugs you. It's OK, but it ain't no Cod.
Posted by: hogmartin at January 07, 2018 12:10 PM (y87Qq)
319
The politicization of book reviews (and literature generally) isn't that new, but it did really start to take off in the 1970s. I recall it quite clearly. Of course there was always some. Chesterton couldn't write anything without bringing in his religion and his idiosyncratic politics. But I've been reading some C S Lewis criticism, and it shows only where necessary. Even Waugh wasn't all that political in his criticism. Orwell often was, of course, but not always. But apparently (from both Orwell and Waugh) the poison was seeping in on the Left even in the 30s. But again, it really started to take off in the 70s.
Another thing we boomers ruined.
BTW, I read vol I of Churchill's World Crisis in 7th Grade. It was the only volume they had. Life-changing for me; I've been a battleship nut ever since. A friend once said "It's scary how well he writes."
Another thing we boomers ruined.
BTW, I read vol I of Churchill's World Crisis in 7th Grade. It was the only volume they had. Life-changing for me; I've been a battleship nut ever since. A friend once said "It's scary how well he writes."
Posted by: George LeS at January 07, 2018 12:11 PM (+TcCF)
320
Thank you Lurking Cynic!
Posted by: cfo mom at January 07, 2018 12:13 PM (RfzVr)
321
Muldoon, if you're still around, I snorted three times in 8 limericks.
*****
RI Red- it's front loaded with the funnier bits at the beginning. The later portions might seem a little dry. Perhaps not unlike your constitutional.
*****
RI Red- it's front loaded with the funnier bits at the beginning. The later portions might seem a little dry. Perhaps not unlike your constitutional.
Posted by: Muldoon at January 07, 2018 12:13 PM (wPiJc)
322
295
To Weasel Woman
Books can be compacted into shelves by laying down only if their
hight is wasting space, if the shelf hight is correct for the books
within and no room above to shelf above laying flat is useless as
pulling out a book on bottom is more difficult.
If you sort your books by size, you can create space to lay books horizontally on top of books that are standing vertically, creating a compromise between storage optimization and ease of access.
To Weasel Woman
Books can be compacted into shelves by laying down only if their
hight is wasting space, if the shelf hight is correct for the books
within and no room above to shelf above laying flat is useless as
pulling out a book on bottom is more difficult.
If you sort your books by size, you can create space to lay books horizontally on top of books that are standing vertically, creating a compromise between storage optimization and ease of access.
Posted by: Anachronda at January 07, 2018 12:18 PM (2//jc)
323
George LeS -- I'm old and remember Marxist reviews as a real thing. One of my generic LitCrit classes had Marxist dialectic as a 'truthy' vehicle for analysis. Old LitCrit guy was furious about it, but said we needed to know the mechanics of the type.
Old Dr Stanlis was right.
Old Dr Stanlis was right.
Posted by: mustbequantum at January 07, 2018 12:21 PM (MIKMs)
324
With Steve Bannon explaining the 'treason' comment (link I posted above) I can hear them going from manic episode right back into depression.
And soon to panic.
Posted by: JackStraw at January 07, 2018 11:55 AM (/tuJf)
Can't access Axios. Script blocker blocks something. If those fuckers want me to read their pearls of whizzdumb, maybe they should build their Web sites so they don't need a mess of useless scripts to work.
And soon to panic.
Posted by: JackStraw at January 07, 2018 11:55 AM (/tuJf)
Can't access Axios. Script blocker blocks something. If those fuckers want me to read their pearls of whizzdumb, maybe they should build their Web sites so they don't need a mess of useless scripts to work.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at January 07, 2018 12:22 PM (sD2WN)
325
The Calvin Rutstrum books are great. He knew how to be comfortable regardless of the climate.
Posted by: Notsothoreau at January 07, 2018 12:47 PM (Lqy/e)
326
JT (#203):
ABE Books (abebooks.com) is the place to go for used books, and they have 65 copies of James Jones' Viet Journal priced from $3.64 ("Fair. . . . Former Library book. Shows definite wear, and perhaps considerable marking on inside.") to $2,437.70 ("New").
For those who don't already know it, the reason ABE is the place to go is that it's not a bookseller, it's a clearing house for tens of thousands of used-book dealers around the word. A lot of them also sell their books on Amazon in the "used and new" section, but a lot of them don't. You should always check both places, since sometimes there's a huge bargain on one or the other. I've been buying through ABE for years and have seldom been disappointed.
ABE Books (abebooks.com) is the place to go for used books, and they have 65 copies of James Jones' Viet Journal priced from $3.64 ("Fair. . . . Former Library book. Shows definite wear, and perhaps considerable marking on inside.") to $2,437.70 ("New").
For those who don't already know it, the reason ABE is the place to go is that it's not a bookseller, it's a clearing house for tens of thousands of used-book dealers around the word. A lot of them also sell their books on Amazon in the "used and new" section, but a lot of them don't. You should always check both places, since sometimes there's a huge bargain on one or the other. I've been buying through ABE for years and have seldom been disappointed.
Posted by: Dr Weevil at January 07, 2018 12:56 PM (Myzz2)
327
270
Christopher, do you think anybody has actually read Hillary's asinine tome?
Amanda S. Green, who gave it a good fisking over at accordingtohoyt.com.
Christopher, do you think anybody has actually read Hillary's asinine tome?
Amanda S. Green, who gave it a good fisking over at accordingtohoyt.com.
Posted by: Anachronda at January 07, 2018 12:57 PM (2//jc)
328
Often see books I want at Abe as used but never bought one, maybe next time I will. Used doesn't bother me.
Posted by: Skip at January 07, 2018 01:03 PM (aC6Sd)
329
Fire almost destroyed the park three months ago.
Posted by: Minerva at January 07, 2018 01:04 PM (LlRuQ)
330
Whoa ! Thanks Dr. Weevil.
Posted by: JT at January 07, 2018 01:17 PM (HC4J9)
331
I use abe for out of print stuff. Think bezos owns them doesn't he?
Posted by: NCKate at January 07, 2018 01:17 PM (7mYn2)
332
I read "Thirteen Moons" and it is gud!
I also read Jon del Arroz' For Steam and Country. The title is kinda silly, especially when it's repeated in the text. But Gordon's niggles aside, I liked the characters and I'll buy the next installment. Worth the money!
I also read Jon del Arroz' For Steam and Country. The title is kinda silly, especially when it's repeated in the text. But Gordon's niggles aside, I liked the characters and I'll buy the next installment. Worth the money!
Posted by: Gordon at January 07, 2018 01:21 PM (TYh1g)
333
"Hasn't Newt written some alt-history books?"
Gettysburg, A Novel
In which Lee prevails and marches on to Washington DC
Gettysburg, A Novel
In which Lee prevails and marches on to Washington DC
Posted by: navybrat, my head hurts at January 07, 2018 01:35 PM (w7KSn)
334
Books as decoration are one of my pet peeves. Although once I saw a pic of hundreds of copies of 50 Shades of Grey that someone had stacked up to form a wall or divider. That was pretty funny.
I loved Call of the Wild, but could never get through The Sea Wolf. Too much yappin' and not enough action!
I loved Call of the Wild, but could never get through The Sea Wolf. Too much yappin' and not enough action!
Posted by: sinalco at January 07, 2018 01:37 PM (yODqO)
335
108
It's
a fine art using books as decoration. If the books are clearly new and
unread, you're a poser. If they're all completely worn out, you've
clearly just picked them up at yard sales and library purges. No, you
must have exactly the correct degree of worn-ness to convey that you're a
serious person.
Sounds like an opportunity for an enterprising moron: Book Wornness Consultant, with a sideline as a Wornness Enhancement Engineer.
It's
a fine art using books as decoration. If the books are clearly new and
unread, you're a poser. If they're all completely worn out, you've
clearly just picked them up at yard sales and library purges. No, you
must have exactly the correct degree of worn-ness to convey that you're a
serious person.
Sounds like an opportunity for an enterprising moron: Book Wornness Consultant, with a sideline as a Wornness Enhancement Engineer.
Posted by: Anachronda at January 07, 2018 01:41 PM (2//jc)
336
326 JT (#203):
ABE Books (abebooks.com) is the place to go for used books, and they have 65 copies of James Jones' Viet Journal priced from $3.64 ("Fair. . . . Former Library book. Shows definite wear, and perhaps considerable marking on inside.") to $2,437.70 ("New").
For those who don't already know it, the reason ABE is the place to go is that it's not a bookseller, it's a clearing house for tens of thousands of used-book dealers around the word. A lot of them also sell their books on Amazon in the "used and new" section, but a lot of them don't. You should always check both places, since sometimes there's a huge bargain on one or the other. I've been buying through ABE for years and have seldom been disappointed.
Posted by: Dr Weevil at January 07, 2018 12:56 PM (Myzz2)
I have had amazing success buying books from AbeBooks and Alibris.
I never buy a used library book. I don't buy the cheapest or the most expensive ones. I pick one in the middle, and they have almost always been in nearly mint condition. I seem to have a knack for reading the sellers' descriptions.
ABE Books (abebooks.com) is the place to go for used books, and they have 65 copies of James Jones' Viet Journal priced from $3.64 ("Fair. . . . Former Library book. Shows definite wear, and perhaps considerable marking on inside.") to $2,437.70 ("New").
For those who don't already know it, the reason ABE is the place to go is that it's not a bookseller, it's a clearing house for tens of thousands of used-book dealers around the word. A lot of them also sell their books on Amazon in the "used and new" section, but a lot of them don't. You should always check both places, since sometimes there's a huge bargain on one or the other. I've been buying through ABE for years and have seldom been disappointed.
Posted by: Dr Weevil at January 07, 2018 12:56 PM (Myzz2)
I have had amazing success buying books from AbeBooks and Alibris.
I never buy a used library book. I don't buy the cheapest or the most expensive ones. I pick one in the middle, and they have almost always been in nearly mint condition. I seem to have a knack for reading the sellers' descriptions.
Posted by: rickl at January 07, 2018 01:48 PM (sdi6R)
337
Agree with rickl that abebooks[dot]com is a great rescourse [that doesn't look right but I am spacing how to spell . . . that word). I too have had consistently good experiences dealing with bookstores who list on abe, with only one bad experience in the last decade or so.
If there's anyone left on this thread, I'm most of the way through "American Nations" by Colin Woodward and overall, I am favorably impressed. If you're still here, and have read (or even read of it) I'd be glad to read your impression.
If there's anyone left on this thread, I'm most of the way through "American Nations" by Colin Woodward and overall, I am favorably impressed. If you're still here, and have read (or even read of it) I'd be glad to read your impression.
Posted by: The Inexplicable Dr. Julius Strangepork at January 07, 2018 02:31 PM (sRycn)
338
I just finished the latest installment in Ken Follett's Kingsbridge series, "A Column of Fire." A vast undertaking of a Europe in turmoil over the various monarchies and the religious wars of the 16th century. Exceptional character building and insight into the minds of the medieval towns, cities and villages throughout Europe.
I have never regretted the time taken to read any of his factional histories. Brilliant.
I have never regretted the time taken to read any of his factional histories. Brilliant.
Posted by: calyxcat at January 07, 2018 02:36 PM (GAX3R)
339
Second the endorsement of Calvin Rutstrum's work. He's one of the few "outdoor" / "survival" / whatever type writers to have things to say that are valuable; applicable to situations I have found myself in. Mostly far North-type places, not desert or tropical.
Posted by: The Inexplicable Dr. Julius Strangepork at January 07, 2018 02:42 PM (sRycn)
340
Finished reading Thank You For Your Service by David Finkel. Thsi was one of the saddest book I have ever read. Made me angry and tear up and I could not put it down.
Posted by: Rolando Gallegos at January 07, 2018 10:05 PM (59GQk)
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