Read Books This will provide a list of the books I've read with a brief review. Users are blocked, contact me for access. I welcome discussions, but I'm tired of spam.

October 20, 2011

A Trick of the Light: A Chief Inspector Gamache Novel by Louise Penny

Filed under: Mystery,Series,Uncategorized — Tags: — Randolph @ 8:20 pm

A Trick of the Light: A Chief Inspector Gamache Novel by Louise Penny

This book is as good as the previous in the series, but in my opinion, a bit darker. Gamache and Beauvior have some personal issues to resolve. But Clara has her moment to shine in the art world, or she would if a dead body didn’t show up.

A long-time friend turned evil art critic that everyone hates appeared and died during Clara’s vernissage. Lots of suspects, naturally. Gamache and crew investigate in their calm and relentless manner to uncover the killer.

The one part I felt lacking was the conclusion. It was done too much in the style of Agatha Christie. I’m sure it was an homage, but felt more of a domage. It was just a bit too much.

The characters are as rich as ever, there is plenty going on to keep the reader involved. Overall, it is a very good book.

October 3, 2011

How to Read Literature Like a Professor: A Lively and Entertaining Guide… by Thomas C. Foster

Filed under: Uncategorized — Randolph @ 7:20 am

How to Read Literature Like a Professor: A Lively and Entertaining Guide… by Thomas C. Foster

Thomas Foster presents the reader with a number of skills in literature analysis. It is a light and pleasurable read providing a good introduction to symbolism in literature.

The first few chapters cover simple object and form analysis, then he expands into looking at events and actions. The book concludes with a short story and full analysis at three different levels.

Thomas often states that analysis isn’t necessary to enjoying literature, you can still enjoy a story for what it is. And a good story should stand on its own without analysis. But understanding symbolism can open a new window to literature and its enjoyment.

The book has loaded with examples from well-known literature. Thomas does a very good job of helping the reader to understand the symbolism and how the reader can get there.

The book is very enjoyable and enlightening. Anyone who enjoys literature, but misses the symbolism, should check it out.

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