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Originally uploaded by aliciamalia.
The colors are pretty accurate--you can see that it's just sort of green. The water was a bit too rough to swim in, and it's a long, hot hike to get there.
Saturday, March 11, 2006
Me and My Turtle
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Originally uploaded by aliciamalia.
This was taken on the big island of Hawaii a few days ago.
Sunday, February 26, 2006
February 2006 Book Reviews
1. Birds Without Wings, Louis de Bernieres, Rating: 4.3
The writing in this book is gorgeous. I frequently found myself stunned by the imagery contained in a single sentence. Seriously. The plot is just okay, and wanders a bit, but to see some really fine examples of someone who knows how to craft a sentence, read this book.
2. The Constant Princess, Philipa Gregory, Rating: 3.2
This is the latest from the woman that wrote the trilogy Bonaparte's wife that I read a few months back. It's no better or worse than her other books (in other words, pretty interesting, slightly formulaic). This one covers the life of Katherine of Aragon, the first wife of Henry the Eighth.
3. Freakonomics, Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner, Rating: 4.0
It's hard not to find this book interesting--it's wide ranging and comes up with fascinating conclusions. Considering it's a book on economics, it's a real page turner.
4. Dark Star Safari, Paul Theroux, Rating: 2.3
I haven't made up my mind about Paul Theroux yet. I really want to like him. I actually want to like any writer that covers lots of ground and tells about it in a compelling way. This book is not a success. Theroux really comes across as a snob (as he always does; it's just intensified this time), and the book feels forced. I didn't actually finish it, but I'm including it because I got pretty darn close before deciding life's to short to read frustrating books.
5. Honey Don't, Tim Sandlin, Rating: 2.0
I love Tim Sandlin. His Grovont trilogy is absolutely hilarious. This, his most recent book, is not. It's actually pretty lame. It makes me sad.
The writing in this book is gorgeous. I frequently found myself stunned by the imagery contained in a single sentence. Seriously. The plot is just okay, and wanders a bit, but to see some really fine examples of someone who knows how to craft a sentence, read this book.
2. The Constant Princess, Philipa Gregory, Rating: 3.2
This is the latest from the woman that wrote the trilogy Bonaparte's wife that I read a few months back. It's no better or worse than her other books (in other words, pretty interesting, slightly formulaic). This one covers the life of Katherine of Aragon, the first wife of Henry the Eighth.
3. Freakonomics, Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner, Rating: 4.0
It's hard not to find this book interesting--it's wide ranging and comes up with fascinating conclusions. Considering it's a book on economics, it's a real page turner.
4. Dark Star Safari, Paul Theroux, Rating: 2.3
I haven't made up my mind about Paul Theroux yet. I really want to like him. I actually want to like any writer that covers lots of ground and tells about it in a compelling way. This book is not a success. Theroux really comes across as a snob (as he always does; it's just intensified this time), and the book feels forced. I didn't actually finish it, but I'm including it because I got pretty darn close before deciding life's to short to read frustrating books.
5. Honey Don't, Tim Sandlin, Rating: 2.0
I love Tim Sandlin. His Grovont trilogy is absolutely hilarious. This, his most recent book, is not. It's actually pretty lame. It makes me sad.
Sunday, February 19, 2006
Snow on Mount Tam
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Originally uploaded by aliciamalia.
Adam and I drove up to the top of Mount Tam on Saturday morning to see the snow. This is about as good as it got--you can see the scale in this second photo.
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Friday, February 17, 2006
View from the top of Cole Street
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Originally uploaded by aliciamalia.
For all of you city dwellers, this is a great weekend walk--just head up Cole Street to the park at the top. The view is arguably the best in the city. (I think the view from the new DeYoung might be slightly better, but you have to pay to see that.
Ella's First Birthday
What can I say, other than Ella is the cutest little girl ever? And notice the pink velour Baby Phat tracksuit--Hayden would be proud. (Ella is Oliver and Sharon's child. This was taken at her first birthday party.)
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
January 2006 Book Reviews
I was absolutely thrilled that someone gave me a hard time about lagging on this post. Brooks, my (probably) only reader, this one's for you. I have grand plans to reinvigorate the blog when I have more time. Believe it or not, I'll be finished with my crochet book by this time next week. Just think of all the time I'll have to write the great american online novel, organize the content, come up with witty comments... Or, realistically, post pictures of my friends' kids. Adam and I are taking a trip to Hawaii at the end of the month, so there will likely be a lot of pictures from Maui and the big island soon.
Getting down to business, here are January's books.
1. Hitler's Niece, Ron Hansen, Rating: 3.5
This book got mountains of press when it came out back in 2000. So much that when I ran across the book at the library, I was able to recall that, for a moment, it was all that anyone was talking about. I also have the sneaking suspicion that I've read more of his books (I checked on amazon and nothing looks familiar, but I'm sure I'm just forgetting), and I worked with his wife in my Chronicle days (The Distant Land of My Father, which I didn't love but many others did). It's very well done, and if you're interested in World War II, I'm sure it's a must-read. To be totally honest, I was bored by it, but I think I'm just not the audience. I also struggled to accept what the author was presenting as the truth (or at least a version of it)--it's clear from his notes that the source material is sketchy, and I didn't really see how he was drawing the connections he did.
2. Falling Angels, Tracy Chevalier, Rating: 1.9
You may recognize Chevalier's name--she wrote The Girl With a Pearl Earring. That book deserves some credit for a novel idea (if not great execution); this book manages to be fairly pointless.
3. She Got Up Off the Couch, Haven Kimmel, Rating: 3.8
Haven Kimmel mines her family for book material. As David Sedaris has shown us, this is often a very funny, successful way to go. Kimmel is not David Sedaris, but her stories and observations are interesting and occasionally have the power to make you chuckle.
4. Patrimony, Philip Roth, Rating 3.0
Reading this book is like staring into someone's apartment with a telescope. The person isn't interesting or attractive or sexy; but it's all there for you to see. I had a hard time putting it down, and felt almost dirty for not stopping. It's an extremely detailed account of the (slow) death of Roth's father, and it certainly makes you feel like you're right there.
5. The House on Mango Street, Sandra Cisneros, rating: 3.0
Interesting, and from what I understand a rather important book, but it's clearly intended for a younger reader.
Getting down to business, here are January's books.
1. Hitler's Niece, Ron Hansen, Rating: 3.5
This book got mountains of press when it came out back in 2000. So much that when I ran across the book at the library, I was able to recall that, for a moment, it was all that anyone was talking about. I also have the sneaking suspicion that I've read more of his books (I checked on amazon and nothing looks familiar, but I'm sure I'm just forgetting), and I worked with his wife in my Chronicle days (The Distant Land of My Father, which I didn't love but many others did). It's very well done, and if you're interested in World War II, I'm sure it's a must-read. To be totally honest, I was bored by it, but I think I'm just not the audience. I also struggled to accept what the author was presenting as the truth (or at least a version of it)--it's clear from his notes that the source material is sketchy, and I didn't really see how he was drawing the connections he did.
2. Falling Angels, Tracy Chevalier, Rating: 1.9
You may recognize Chevalier's name--she wrote The Girl With a Pearl Earring. That book deserves some credit for a novel idea (if not great execution); this book manages to be fairly pointless.
3. She Got Up Off the Couch, Haven Kimmel, Rating: 3.8
Haven Kimmel mines her family for book material. As David Sedaris has shown us, this is often a very funny, successful way to go. Kimmel is not David Sedaris, but her stories and observations are interesting and occasionally have the power to make you chuckle.
4. Patrimony, Philip Roth, Rating 3.0
Reading this book is like staring into someone's apartment with a telescope. The person isn't interesting or attractive or sexy; but it's all there for you to see. I had a hard time putting it down, and felt almost dirty for not stopping. It's an extremely detailed account of the (slow) death of Roth's father, and it certainly makes you feel like you're right there.
5. The House on Mango Street, Sandra Cisneros, rating: 3.0
Interesting, and from what I understand a rather important book, but it's clearly intended for a younger reader.
Sunday, January 01, 2006
December 2005 Book Reviews
1. A Walk in the Woods, Bill Bryson, Rating: 2.2
I really like Bill Bryson--don't let this low rating scare you away from him. Do choose another one of his books to read, however. This book is about hiking the Appalachian Trail, which apparently wasn't quite big enough of a subject for Bill--he fills in the gaps with the history of various towns, complaints about the people he meets, and occasional rants about the government, America, and stupid tourists. Generally speaking, Bryson is very funny and informative, but he's just a little off his game here.
2. The Art of Travel, Alain de Botton, Rating: 3.7
This book is fascinating and absolutely impossible to read straight through. It was highly recommended by several friends, and deserves high praise. It unfortunately was a major struggle for me to get through--I'm really not good at slowing down and enjoying good writing and deep thoughts. I started reading this book last July, and only now finished it. One line in particular, however, was worth reading the whole book for (and conveys exactly why I enjoyed writing my travel blog so much):
"the most effective means of pursuing this conscious understanding [of beauty] was by attempting to describe beautiful places through art, by writing about or drawing them, irrespective of whether one happened to have any talent for doing so." (the endorsement of lack of talent being key to the whole experience)
3. The Vintner's Luck, Elizabeth Knox, Rating: 4.6
Don't let the cover put you off--this is a must-read. The story is slightly odd (a relationship between a French man and an angel, 100 years ago), but the pacing is perfect (each chapter equals one year--how can you get bored when things move that fast?) and the writing is exquisite. Seriously. Thanks to Galen for the recommendation.
4. The Historian, Elizabeth Kostova, Rating: 2.3
This book has been on the NY Times best-seller list forever (at least 6 months). I reserved it at the berkeley library last July, and only got my hands on a copy two weeks ago. Obviously it's quite popular. The story deals with two generations of a family pursuing Dracula, traveling all over the world, and researching in all sorts of exciting libraries. Right up my alley. But...it's just not very good. So not very good that it makes me lose faith in the American book-buying public. The story actually reminds me of The Da Vinci Code--compelling story that overcomes a lack of writing finesse. Except the writing is worse, and the story is less compelling. I didn't hate it (the story at times is quite interesting), but can't recommend it.
5. Oryx and Crake, Margaret Atwood, Rating: 3.2
Very, very odd. I think that's really all I can say about this. It actually falls into one of my favorite genres of fiction--the end of the world--but is very different than other books on the subject. A major departure for Atwood.
I really like Bill Bryson--don't let this low rating scare you away from him. Do choose another one of his books to read, however. This book is about hiking the Appalachian Trail, which apparently wasn't quite big enough of a subject for Bill--he fills in the gaps with the history of various towns, complaints about the people he meets, and occasional rants about the government, America, and stupid tourists. Generally speaking, Bryson is very funny and informative, but he's just a little off his game here.
2. The Art of Travel, Alain de Botton, Rating: 3.7
This book is fascinating and absolutely impossible to read straight through. It was highly recommended by several friends, and deserves high praise. It unfortunately was a major struggle for me to get through--I'm really not good at slowing down and enjoying good writing and deep thoughts. I started reading this book last July, and only now finished it. One line in particular, however, was worth reading the whole book for (and conveys exactly why I enjoyed writing my travel blog so much):
"the most effective means of pursuing this conscious understanding [of beauty] was by attempting to describe beautiful places through art, by writing about or drawing them, irrespective of whether one happened to have any talent for doing so." (the endorsement of lack of talent being key to the whole experience)
3. The Vintner's Luck, Elizabeth Knox, Rating: 4.6
Don't let the cover put you off--this is a must-read. The story is slightly odd (a relationship between a French man and an angel, 100 years ago), but the pacing is perfect (each chapter equals one year--how can you get bored when things move that fast?) and the writing is exquisite. Seriously. Thanks to Galen for the recommendation.
4. The Historian, Elizabeth Kostova, Rating: 2.3
This book has been on the NY Times best-seller list forever (at least 6 months). I reserved it at the berkeley library last July, and only got my hands on a copy two weeks ago. Obviously it's quite popular. The story deals with two generations of a family pursuing Dracula, traveling all over the world, and researching in all sorts of exciting libraries. Right up my alley. But...it's just not very good. So not very good that it makes me lose faith in the American book-buying public. The story actually reminds me of The Da Vinci Code--compelling story that overcomes a lack of writing finesse. Except the writing is worse, and the story is less compelling. I didn't hate it (the story at times is quite interesting), but can't recommend it.
5. Oryx and Crake, Margaret Atwood, Rating: 3.2
Very, very odd. I think that's really all I can say about this. It actually falls into one of my favorite genres of fiction--the end of the world--but is very different than other books on the subject. A major departure for Atwood.
Sunday, December 04, 2005
Sophie's New Brother
Spenser Sorensen-Wald. He's two weeks old now. Sophie seems to like him just fine.
Introducing Clayton Sears
A.K.A. Clay. He's a month old in these pictures--I think he's going to have a lot of personality when he gets a little older.
November 2005 Book Reviews
This is a pathetic list--I'll try harder next month. I've got a new friend at work that has made some interesting recommendations.
1. Stolen Figs and Other Adventures in Calabria, Mark Rotella, Rating: 1.7
I really wanted to like this. I had an email recently from Sandra, a lovely Canadian woman I met in Brugges, who is in the midst of planning her wedding and honeymoon. She's taking Italian lessons, and they're planning on spending time in Calabria (in Italy). She mentioned that she was reading this to learn more about the area. Mark Rotella is an editor at Publishers Weekly, and, despite that credential, just can't write very well. The book reads like he took the contents of a guidebook to the region, moved things around about, and inserted a few personal details--often the same details, over and over again. A big reason that I only got through two books this month was the fact that I was determined to finish this, and found it extremely difficult to care about. It did, however, make me interested in Calabria.
2. Three Junes, Julia Glass, Rating: 4.2
Everyone seems to be reading this these days. The first 100 pages are slow going, but it really picks up after that. There are multiple narrators (all connected through blood or friendship) with distinct voices and points of view. There's a plot, but the book really isn't about that--I felt that it was more about exploring relationships and emotions and feelings. Definitely worth checking out.
1. Stolen Figs and Other Adventures in Calabria, Mark Rotella, Rating: 1.7
I really wanted to like this. I had an email recently from Sandra, a lovely Canadian woman I met in Brugges, who is in the midst of planning her wedding and honeymoon. She's taking Italian lessons, and they're planning on spending time in Calabria (in Italy). She mentioned that she was reading this to learn more about the area. Mark Rotella is an editor at Publishers Weekly, and, despite that credential, just can't write very well. The book reads like he took the contents of a guidebook to the region, moved things around about, and inserted a few personal details--often the same details, over and over again. A big reason that I only got through two books this month was the fact that I was determined to finish this, and found it extremely difficult to care about. It did, however, make me interested in Calabria.
2. Three Junes, Julia Glass, Rating: 4.2
Everyone seems to be reading this these days. The first 100 pages are slow going, but it really picks up after that. There are multiple narrators (all connected through blood or friendship) with distinct voices and points of view. There's a plot, but the book really isn't about that--I felt that it was more about exploring relationships and emotions and feelings. Definitely worth checking out.
Sunday, November 06, 2005
October 2005 Book Reviews
This was a successful reading month. No promises for November, though--I've taken up crocheting full-time on the BART, and my book volume is definitely suffering.
1. American Gods, Neil Gaiman, Rating: 4.7
I really liked this. I think Good Omens (one of his previous novels) might be better, but this is a close second. It's very clever and well-researched (the subject matter deals with gods from numerous time periods and religions). Definitely check it out.
2. Y The Last Man, Volume 5 (comic book), Rating: 4.8
I've recommended this series to many of my friends already--it and Fables are the only series I keep up on. The plot deals with the journey of a young man trying to find his girlfriend and stay alive. He's (as far as we know) the only man alive on earth, after a virus wipes out everything with a Y chromosome. The art is gorgeous, the story gripping and very easy to follow. If you're interested in reading comic books, this is a perfect series to start with.
3. Julie & Julia, Julie Powell, Rating: 4.0
I'm sure you've read a review of this--it seems to be getting attention everywhere. It's one of those blog spin-offs (which are suddenly everywhere; is this the latest publishing trend?), a narration of a woman's efforts to cook her way through Julia Child's Mastering the Art of French Cooking in one year. I found the story tedious initially, but got into it when the author stopped complaining so much about her life and started talking more about her cooking. Frequent Buffy references helped, too. If you like food writing, you'll probably enjoy this.
4. Thinking in Pictures, Temple Grandin, Rating: 2.8
This is an interesting, important book that I completely failed to respond to. It's written by an autistic woman, and deals with what's it like to be autistic (as well as what's it's like to be a cow--the author really likes cows). I definitely learned a lot, but finishing it was painful.
5. I'm Not the New Me, Wendy McClure, Rating: 2.8
The was an interesting counterpoint to Julie & Julia. It's also a blog spin-off, this time about weight loss. I would frankly rather read about eating food than not doing so.
6. Welcome to My Planet, Where English is Sometimes Spoken, Shannon Olson, Rating: 2.3
I should have held off on reading this for a few weeks. It was the third book this month (after #3 and #5) about a whiny woman approaching 30 who is dissatisfied (reasonably so) with her life. At least the author of Julie & Julia did something interesting; this woman just complains. Frankly, she's not that good of a writer and it felt like a waste of time to read about her pathetic life. (Wow, did I just write that? A little harsh, but I'm going to leave it there.)
7. Veronika Decides to Die, Paulo Coelho, Rating: 3.5
Beautifully written, extremely insightful. The rating is a little lower because I find the subject matter--suicide--depressing to read about, but I'll check out other books by this author.
8. Round the Bend, Nevil Shute, Rating: 4.2
Like his other novels, this is very interesting, epic in scope, and a pleasure to read. It deals with airplanes, life, love, and religion--you could say that it's got it all. I prefer A Town Like Alice, but this is a close second.
9. Wickett's Remedy, Myla Goldberg, Rating: 3.8
Not nearly as good as Bee Season (her previous novel), but fun nevertheless. I particularly enjoyed the layout of the book--the text flows in the traditional way, but there are funny little comments (from "US," people in heaven) in the margins about where the story's narrator is making a mistake, or embellishing the truth.
1. American Gods, Neil Gaiman, Rating: 4.7
I really liked this. I think Good Omens (one of his previous novels) might be better, but this is a close second. It's very clever and well-researched (the subject matter deals with gods from numerous time periods and religions). Definitely check it out.
2. Y The Last Man, Volume 5 (comic book), Rating: 4.8
I've recommended this series to many of my friends already--it and Fables are the only series I keep up on. The plot deals with the journey of a young man trying to find his girlfriend and stay alive. He's (as far as we know) the only man alive on earth, after a virus wipes out everything with a Y chromosome. The art is gorgeous, the story gripping and very easy to follow. If you're interested in reading comic books, this is a perfect series to start with.
3. Julie & Julia, Julie Powell, Rating: 4.0
I'm sure you've read a review of this--it seems to be getting attention everywhere. It's one of those blog spin-offs (which are suddenly everywhere; is this the latest publishing trend?), a narration of a woman's efforts to cook her way through Julia Child's Mastering the Art of French Cooking in one year. I found the story tedious initially, but got into it when the author stopped complaining so much about her life and started talking more about her cooking. Frequent Buffy references helped, too. If you like food writing, you'll probably enjoy this.
4. Thinking in Pictures, Temple Grandin, Rating: 2.8
This is an interesting, important book that I completely failed to respond to. It's written by an autistic woman, and deals with what's it like to be autistic (as well as what's it's like to be a cow--the author really likes cows). I definitely learned a lot, but finishing it was painful.
5. I'm Not the New Me, Wendy McClure, Rating: 2.8
The was an interesting counterpoint to Julie & Julia. It's also a blog spin-off, this time about weight loss. I would frankly rather read about eating food than not doing so.
6. Welcome to My Planet, Where English is Sometimes Spoken, Shannon Olson, Rating: 2.3
I should have held off on reading this for a few weeks. It was the third book this month (after #3 and #5) about a whiny woman approaching 30 who is dissatisfied (reasonably so) with her life. At least the author of Julie & Julia did something interesting; this woman just complains. Frankly, she's not that good of a writer and it felt like a waste of time to read about her pathetic life. (Wow, did I just write that? A little harsh, but I'm going to leave it there.)
7. Veronika Decides to Die, Paulo Coelho, Rating: 3.5
Beautifully written, extremely insightful. The rating is a little lower because I find the subject matter--suicide--depressing to read about, but I'll check out other books by this author.
8. Round the Bend, Nevil Shute, Rating: 4.2
Like his other novels, this is very interesting, epic in scope, and a pleasure to read. It deals with airplanes, life, love, and religion--you could say that it's got it all. I prefer A Town Like Alice, but this is a close second.
9. Wickett's Remedy, Myla Goldberg, Rating: 3.8
Not nearly as good as Bee Season (her previous novel), but fun nevertheless. I particularly enjoyed the layout of the book--the text flows in the traditional way, but there are funny little comments (from "US," people in heaven) in the margins about where the story's narrator is making a mistake, or embellishing the truth.
Thursday, November 03, 2005
Halloween
I think Charlotte may win the prize for having the cutest Halloween costume. Can you stand it?
Tuesday, October 25, 2005
Life Changes
It's been quite a while since the last post--I've gone from almost total inactivity to 110% in the last few weeks. It's great, if a bit tiring. I started a new job three weeks ago at a San Francisco design firm. I'm struggling to find good lunch spots, but other than that can't complain. The people are great, the office easy to get to, I have an awesome, huge computer, and--best of all--they actually pay me to organize things! I think there really is a perfect job for everyone.
I'm also writing a crochet book for chronicle--Crochet to Go, due in SP07. If you know how to crochet (or live near me and want to learn), let me know! I'd love to have some people test my patterns. The project list isn't final yet, so email if you have any great ideas for stuff.
My friend Brooks asked me a few weeks ago what was going to take the biggest hit from the new job--reading or tv/movie watching. TV viewership is definitely way down (though thanks to the crochet, I'm still logging in about an hour a day on the couch). Books are suffering, but not as much as I'd feared. So don't worry--it looks like I'll have at least 6 titles to review this month, maybe more.
I'm also writing a crochet book for chronicle--Crochet to Go, due in SP07. If you know how to crochet (or live near me and want to learn), let me know! I'd love to have some people test my patterns. The project list isn't final yet, so email if you have any great ideas for stuff.
My friend Brooks asked me a few weeks ago what was going to take the biggest hit from the new job--reading or tv/movie watching. TV viewership is definitely way down (though thanks to the crochet, I'm still logging in about an hour a day on the couch). Books are suffering, but not as much as I'd feared. So don't worry--it looks like I'll have at least 6 titles to review this month, maybe more.
Sunday, October 02, 2005
September 2005 Book Reviews
I made it through a fairly substantial list this month. Next month's will be shorter (more on why in a post later this week). I've bolded titles of particular interest.
1. Finding Fish, Antwone Fisher, Rating 2.4
Don't bother with this book--rent the movie instead. While I generally think books tend to be better than the movies that are made of them, this is definitely an exception to the rule. Another one that comes to mind is Nick Hornby's High Fidelity.
2. A Widow for One year, John Irving, Rating: 3.7
Irving is usually a sure thing--he writes well, and knows how to tell a story. That said, the subject of this book gets tedious. Try The Cider House Rules instead (which is better than the movie made of it).
3. Emily's Reasons Why Not, Carrie Gerlach, Rating: 2.1
Why do I continue to read chic lit? It's so rarely worthwhile.
4. My Year of Meats, Ruth Ozeki, Rating: 4.9
Probably the sixth time I've read this, and it's still amazing. For why I like it, see my top 10 list.
5. The Inner Circle, T.C. Boyle, Rating: 3.8
I read my first Boyle book late last year (Drop City; it's on Elese's top 10 and is definitely worth reading), and was excited to dive into this one. I frankly didn't love it, but I think it's my fault--I had just finished Kinsey and PBS's documentary on Kinsey, and had already had my fill on the subject (this book is a fictionalized version of Alfred Kinsey's life).
6. Mary After All, Bill Gordon, Rating: 3.0
A story of a New Jersey housewife. Decent writing, but I had trouble caring about the plot.
7. Skinny Dip, Carl Hiaasen, Rating: 3.7
This is my first Hiaasen book. I'll definitely read more--they're not earthshaking, but he's a funny writer and perfect for reading on vacation.
8. Complications, Atul Gawande, Rating: 4.3
Very good--Gawande is a surgical resident who writes with surprising clarity and depth about issues facing modern medicine. If you read The New Yorker, you're probably familiar with him--he writes for them regularly.
9. The Horse Whisperer, Nicolas Evans, Rating: 3.0
I'm not a horse girl, and this book just didn't do it for me. It's similar to The Smoke Jumper, but less interesting.
10. The Baby Trail, Sinead Moriarty, Rating: 2.9
More chic lit. Again, why do I bother?
11. The All-True Travels and Adventures of Lidie Newton, Jane Smiley, Rating: 2.1
I've read Jane Smiley's novels in the past, and have liked them for the most part. This book, unfortunately, falls far short of the mark--it's just plain bad.
12. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, Ann Brashares, Rating: 4.1
I'm a bit embarrassed to even admit that I read this, let alone give it such a high rating. It's very well done, though, and I enjoyed it quite a bit.
13. Look at Me, Jennifer Egan, Rating: 2.8
This was a random library pick--it has pages of glowing reviews. I was drawn to the subject matter (identity; it's the story of a model who becomes unrecognizable after a major car accident). The plot, however, goes in strange directions--terrorism, the internet, lots of bad guys--and ultimately lost my interest.
14. The Amateurs, David Halberstam, Rating: 3.8
Halberstam is an exceptional writer. This book covers the lives of 4 world-class rowers, and their struggle to make it to and win in the Olympics. While I'm not particularly interested in rowing, but if you are (or even if you're interested in underappreciated Olympic sports or athletes in general), this is worth checking out.
1. Finding Fish, Antwone Fisher, Rating 2.4
Don't bother with this book--rent the movie instead. While I generally think books tend to be better than the movies that are made of them, this is definitely an exception to the rule. Another one that comes to mind is Nick Hornby's High Fidelity.
2. A Widow for One year, John Irving, Rating: 3.7
Irving is usually a sure thing--he writes well, and knows how to tell a story. That said, the subject of this book gets tedious. Try The Cider House Rules instead (which is better than the movie made of it).
3. Emily's Reasons Why Not, Carrie Gerlach, Rating: 2.1
Why do I continue to read chic lit? It's so rarely worthwhile.
4. My Year of Meats, Ruth Ozeki, Rating: 4.9
Probably the sixth time I've read this, and it's still amazing. For why I like it, see my top 10 list.
5. The Inner Circle, T.C. Boyle, Rating: 3.8
I read my first Boyle book late last year (Drop City; it's on Elese's top 10 and is definitely worth reading), and was excited to dive into this one. I frankly didn't love it, but I think it's my fault--I had just finished Kinsey and PBS's documentary on Kinsey, and had already had my fill on the subject (this book is a fictionalized version of Alfred Kinsey's life).
6. Mary After All, Bill Gordon, Rating: 3.0
A story of a New Jersey housewife. Decent writing, but I had trouble caring about the plot.
7. Skinny Dip, Carl Hiaasen, Rating: 3.7
This is my first Hiaasen book. I'll definitely read more--they're not earthshaking, but he's a funny writer and perfect for reading on vacation.
8. Complications, Atul Gawande, Rating: 4.3
Very good--Gawande is a surgical resident who writes with surprising clarity and depth about issues facing modern medicine. If you read The New Yorker, you're probably familiar with him--he writes for them regularly.
9. The Horse Whisperer, Nicolas Evans, Rating: 3.0
I'm not a horse girl, and this book just didn't do it for me. It's similar to The Smoke Jumper, but less interesting.
10. The Baby Trail, Sinead Moriarty, Rating: 2.9
More chic lit. Again, why do I bother?
11. The All-True Travels and Adventures of Lidie Newton, Jane Smiley, Rating: 2.1
I've read Jane Smiley's novels in the past, and have liked them for the most part. This book, unfortunately, falls far short of the mark--it's just plain bad.
12. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, Ann Brashares, Rating: 4.1
I'm a bit embarrassed to even admit that I read this, let alone give it such a high rating. It's very well done, though, and I enjoyed it quite a bit.
13. Look at Me, Jennifer Egan, Rating: 2.8
This was a random library pick--it has pages of glowing reviews. I was drawn to the subject matter (identity; it's the story of a model who becomes unrecognizable after a major car accident). The plot, however, goes in strange directions--terrorism, the internet, lots of bad guys--and ultimately lost my interest.
14. The Amateurs, David Halberstam, Rating: 3.8
Halberstam is an exceptional writer. This book covers the lives of 4 world-class rowers, and their struggle to make it to and win in the Olympics. While I'm not particularly interested in rowing, but if you are (or even if you're interested in underappreciated Olympic sports or athletes in general), this is worth checking out.
Thursday, September 15, 2005
Blog Maintenance
I've spent large chunks of time the last few days trying to figure out all the "high-tech" aspects of blogging. You'll now see that I've figured out how to post a picture in the profile section, and also have new links on the side of the page for book reviews and babies. Both are sparse right now, but will hopefully grow with time. I want to thank all of you readers who responded to the new book review section--I have a nice, growing list of books to read, and a few ideas for future columns. I think the first is going to be a top ten list, and then I'll tackle thematic lists. Please keep the recommendations coming--I've figured out the reservation system at the Berkeley library, and promise to try get to everything you're interested in.
I think it's been awhile since my last "pro-Oakland" rant. I went into the city this afternoon to water my aunt's plants, and got stuck in traffic for two hours trying to get home (a big rig full of beer lit on fire--it looked like parts of it actually imploded--and they shut the entire lower deck of the Bay Bridge down. The driver and his dog made it out safe.). I'm really happy to be back on the traffic-free side of the Bay. I think I'm going to stick to Bart from now on. [As an aside, as I drove past the wreck, pondering whether or not to listen to Bush's speech tonight--I've decided not to; I've already been frustrated enough for one day--I noticed several news vans recording the action. One of the reporters had set up a lawn chair and was catching some sun. For some reason, this made me really happy. I'm glad that see that people have the ability to keep everything in perspective.]
In other news, as of yesterday I'm one year closer to 30. I'm pleased to report that I didn't feel noticeably older this morning.
I think it's been awhile since my last "pro-Oakland" rant. I went into the city this afternoon to water my aunt's plants, and got stuck in traffic for two hours trying to get home (a big rig full of beer lit on fire--it looked like parts of it actually imploded--and they shut the entire lower deck of the Bay Bridge down. The driver and his dog made it out safe.). I'm really happy to be back on the traffic-free side of the Bay. I think I'm going to stick to Bart from now on. [As an aside, as I drove past the wreck, pondering whether or not to listen to Bush's speech tonight--I've decided not to; I've already been frustrated enough for one day--I noticed several news vans recording the action. One of the reporters had set up a lawn chair and was catching some sun. For some reason, this made me really happy. I'm glad that see that people have the ability to keep everything in perspective.]
In other news, as of yesterday I'm one year closer to 30. I'm pleased to report that I didn't feel noticeably older this morning.
Monday, September 12, 2005
August Book Reviews
I've decided that the best way to do book reviews is on a monthly basis--I just can't see myself motivating to write after finishing each one. I'm also not sure that I'm up to adding comments for every title--in my journal, I use a rating system to differentiate titles, and just comment on the books I like. I think I'll stick to this system for now, though do let me know if it would be helpful to have more information.
Rating System:**
1 Barely Readable
2 Readable, with major flaws
3 Decent
4 Recommended
5 Excellent
**I'm not pretending to be the New York Times here. I used to rate books in terms of "quality," but have since come to terms with the fact that my taste often tends to be a little low-brow (my favorite book is Steven King's The Stand). My ratings are based entirely on whether or not a book was fun or interesting to read. Therefore, if you're in the market for a new book, stick with 3.5 and above ratings.
Another note: this list is long; I apologize for future short lists. I just have a little extra time on my hands these days.
1. The Many Lives and Secret Sorrows of Josephine B., by Sandra Gullard. Rating: 3.9
I blame Elese for getting me on this historical fiction kick. This series is a bit girly (though surprisingly chaste), and highly readable. The 3-volume set covers, with fairly well-researched details, the entire life of Napolean's first wife.
2. Tales of Passion, Tales of Woe, By Sandra Gullard. Rating: 3.9
Volume 2 of the series.
3. The Last Great Dance on Earth, By Sandra Gullard. Rating: 3.9
Volume 3.
4. Princess, By Jean Sasson, Rating: 3.7
Not very well-written, but a well-intentioned (if oddly structured) look at the life of upper class Saudi women in the 1980s.
5. The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, By Alexander McCall Smith. Rating: 2.8
What's the deal with this series? It's predictable and often downright boring.
6. Away From You, By Melanie Finn, Rating: 3.2
Memoir; story of a woman that returns to her childhood home in Africa to deal with unresolved father issues. Good descriptions of Africa in the 1960s and today, otherwise skipable.
7. Or Give Me Death, Ann Rinaldi, Rating: 2.9
I realized half-way through this book that it must be written for teens. It's more historical fiction, this time about the wife of Patrick Henry. The author takes major liberties with the story.
8. The Twins of Tribeca, Rachel Pine, Rating: 3.1
Chic-lit, but of the better variety. Whiny (they all are), but has decent insights into what it's like to be a movie publicist.
9. Losing It, Alan Cumyn, Rating 3.0
I read this three weeks ago, and the plot has already skipped my mind. I guess it wasn't that good. All I wrote down was "dark, formulaic, readable."
10. Snowed In, Christina Bartolomeo, Rating: 3.8
This poor book is actually quite good, and cursed with a chic-lit cover. I grabbed it at the library thinking I'd get something really light and fluffy for the weekend, and instead got genuine literary fiction. The author isn't quite there yet, but I'll watch for her future books. The plot is somewhat complicated, but it boils down to finding out who you are.
11. Population: 485, Michael Perry, Rating: 3.0
Another library book, with yet another misleading cover. The jacket claims it's about finding entrance into a community by being a volunteer firefighter. It is about being a volunteer firefighter, but this guy never finds a community. You get the distinct feeling that he wrote this book so that people would think he has friends. It's weird.
12. A Town Like Alice, Nevil Shute, Rating: 4.7
I mentioned this in a previous post--please read it. Ignore everything else on this list. It's really, really good.
13. On the Beach, Nevil Shute, Rating: 4.2
Decent, but read A Town Like Alice instead.
14. The Smoke Jumper, Nicolas Evans, Rating: 4.1
I really liked this, probably because it was a book on tape. I've been painting the living room and dining room, and it passed the time well.
Book Reviews
Rating System:**
1 Barely Readable
2 Readable, with major flaws
3 Decent
4 Recommended
5 Excellent
**I'm not pretending to be the New York Times here. I used to rate books in terms of "quality," but have since come to terms with the fact that my taste often tends to be a little low-brow (my favorite book is Steven King's The Stand). My ratings are based entirely on whether or not a book was fun or interesting to read. Therefore, if you're in the market for a new book, stick with 3.5 and above ratings.
Another note: this list is long; I apologize for future short lists. I just have a little extra time on my hands these days.
1. The Many Lives and Secret Sorrows of Josephine B., by Sandra Gullard. Rating: 3.9
I blame Elese for getting me on this historical fiction kick. This series is a bit girly (though surprisingly chaste), and highly readable. The 3-volume set covers, with fairly well-researched details, the entire life of Napolean's first wife.
2. Tales of Passion, Tales of Woe, By Sandra Gullard. Rating: 3.9
Volume 2 of the series.
3. The Last Great Dance on Earth, By Sandra Gullard. Rating: 3.9
Volume 3.
4. Princess, By Jean Sasson, Rating: 3.7
Not very well-written, but a well-intentioned (if oddly structured) look at the life of upper class Saudi women in the 1980s.
5. The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, By Alexander McCall Smith. Rating: 2.8
What's the deal with this series? It's predictable and often downright boring.
6. Away From You, By Melanie Finn, Rating: 3.2
Memoir; story of a woman that returns to her childhood home in Africa to deal with unresolved father issues. Good descriptions of Africa in the 1960s and today, otherwise skipable.
7. Or Give Me Death, Ann Rinaldi, Rating: 2.9
I realized half-way through this book that it must be written for teens. It's more historical fiction, this time about the wife of Patrick Henry. The author takes major liberties with the story.
8. The Twins of Tribeca, Rachel Pine, Rating: 3.1
Chic-lit, but of the better variety. Whiny (they all are), but has decent insights into what it's like to be a movie publicist.
9. Losing It, Alan Cumyn, Rating 3.0
I read this three weeks ago, and the plot has already skipped my mind. I guess it wasn't that good. All I wrote down was "dark, formulaic, readable."
10. Snowed In, Christina Bartolomeo, Rating: 3.8
This poor book is actually quite good, and cursed with a chic-lit cover. I grabbed it at the library thinking I'd get something really light and fluffy for the weekend, and instead got genuine literary fiction. The author isn't quite there yet, but I'll watch for her future books. The plot is somewhat complicated, but it boils down to finding out who you are.
11. Population: 485, Michael Perry, Rating: 3.0
Another library book, with yet another misleading cover. The jacket claims it's about finding entrance into a community by being a volunteer firefighter. It is about being a volunteer firefighter, but this guy never finds a community. You get the distinct feeling that he wrote this book so that people would think he has friends. It's weird.
12. A Town Like Alice, Nevil Shute, Rating: 4.7
I mentioned this in a previous post--please read it. Ignore everything else on this list. It's really, really good.
13. On the Beach, Nevil Shute, Rating: 4.2
Decent, but read A Town Like Alice instead.
14. The Smoke Jumper, Nicolas Evans, Rating: 4.1
I really liked this, probably because it was a book on tape. I've been painting the living room and dining room, and it passed the time well.
Book Reviews
Meet Finn
Here's the latest addition to team Oakland--a very big, beautiful, healthy little boy. His parents Shawn and Lisa Hazen are happy to have him home at last. His full name is Finian Lucas Hazen, he weighed in at 9lbs. 1oz., and his birthday is September 8th (see? another Virgo!).
Friday, September 09, 2005
Hannah's Birthday
I've been thinking a lot about ways to repurpose this blog. My life really isn't all that interesting these days, so it's a bit difficult to write. I also don't have a camera anymore, although I plan to correct that issue soon. I'm thinking about perhaps starting to post a few book reviews, as soon as I can figure out how to do sidebars on the site--I'd like to take advantage of that book journal I started a few years ago and post a few lists (top 10 titles, best books on Africa, etc.). The best book I've read in the past few fews is A Town Like Alice (thanks to Hayden's dad Wib for the recommendation). It covers a lot of ground--prisoners of war, losing loved ones, building a town, romance--and is extremely well written. The author, Nevil Shute, is better known for On the Beach, but A Town Like Alice is much better.
Other than reading, I've been painting the house, watching way too much TV (I'm hooked on Scrubs right now), interviewing for jobs, and seeing friends. Hannah, pictured above with her husband Gabe, is a friend from college who has kindly agreed to be my workout partner. We've only gone once so far, but I think with two people we're a bit more likely to motivate ourselves to go.
Also thinking of Hannah, I've realized that nearly half of my friends have birthdays in August or September (Hannah's was a few weeks ago). What does that say about me? I'm not sure.
Monday, August 01, 2005
The Great Pie-Off
I think many of you will remember my victorious turn in the 6th annual Oakland Pie-Off two years ago--my Ginger Peach (my second pie effort ever, I should add) came in 9th in a pool of over 90 pies. I regard this as one of my greatest accomplishments. I missed the 2004 contest, but this year's was yesterday. I'd like to thank the contributors to this year's pie--Matthew Africa (graphic designer, pie baker) and Brooks and Autumn (official taste testers).
Flavor? Banana cream.
How to make the perfect pie? Bake, bake, and bake again. We tried four variations on Saturday:
-Cook's Illustrated Vanilla Cream with bananas, traditional flake crust with graham cracker crumbs baked in.
-New York Times Cookbook sour cream banana filling, graham cracker crust
-Pie Every Day graham cracker crust and oreo crust (this second was a failure; apparently you're supposed to scrape out the cream filling before grinding the cookies); berry-cheese cake filling (I was in the mood for cheesecake)
The winner: Cook's Illustrated crust, NYT sour cream banana filling. The filling really is exceptional--I loved it and I don't even like banana pies.
The verdict? Nothing! There are 5 official pie categories, of which banana falls into "other." Apparently the judges this year decided that they would only advance "other" pies that were entirely non-traditional. Mango made it to the final round.
While both Matt and I are taking this loss hard, I'm determined to try again and crack the top five. Any votes for next year's flavor? Post a comment.
Flavor? Banana cream.
How to make the perfect pie? Bake, bake, and bake again. We tried four variations on Saturday:
-Cook's Illustrated Vanilla Cream with bananas, traditional flake crust with graham cracker crumbs baked in.
-New York Times Cookbook sour cream banana filling, graham cracker crust
-Pie Every Day graham cracker crust and oreo crust (this second was a failure; apparently you're supposed to scrape out the cream filling before grinding the cookies); berry-cheese cake filling (I was in the mood for cheesecake)
The winner: Cook's Illustrated crust, NYT sour cream banana filling. The filling really is exceptional--I loved it and I don't even like banana pies.
The verdict? Nothing! There are 5 official pie categories, of which banana falls into "other." Apparently the judges this year decided that they would only advance "other" pies that were entirely non-traditional. Mango made it to the final round.
While both Matt and I are taking this loss hard, I'm determined to try again and crack the top five. Any votes for next year's flavor? Post a comment.
Camping on Mount Tam
Well, I'm back. I've ignored the blog for a few weeks--it's harder to write these things when you're not going to a new city every few days. I have been to a number of interesting places, however. Zac and Eliza Sorenson-Wald (my former nieghbors) were kind enough to take me in for the first two weeks. They have a beautiful daughter, Sophie, who's learning to talk and is a lot of fun to be around. She calls me "A-Gee-Sha."
Liza, Sophie, Walker (Sophie's best friend), and Walker's parents Kiera & Steve and I spent a night last week up at the West Point Inn on Mount Tam. It's a hike-in hotel (2-3 miles each way, which is rather hard with two toddlers in tow) with incredible views. There's a fully equipped kitchen and a fun common room. I'd definitely do it again. While it's not exactly a romantic getaway--you share the common space with all the other guests--it's perfect for an outting with a group of friends.
Beaches in Oakland?
Yes, they do exist. I had never visited Lake Temescal before, but I had clearly been missing out. The water is clean (much cleaner than Lake Anza, the lifeguards are proud to say), there's a great area for laps, and it's just two exits off the freeway from my house. Sophie likes it too.
The beach in Alameda
There are beaches in Alameda, too--who knew? Zac and Eliza's favorite stretch is right by the MacDonald's--there's tons of parking, very few crowds, and a Trader Joe's for shopping when you're done.
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