New Book & Rants

“It doesn’t matter what you look like on the outside, because anyone who knows you knows what a great guy you are on the inside. You’re honest and true.”~Jon Steele (The Watchers)

Last week I had the library at my school order a book that I saw at our local book store. Normally I just purchase books new, but books are expensive. And lately our household has cutback on extras and new books is on the list of cutbacks. So the school library has become my new best friend.

It’s been a while since I’ve been this excited to read a new book. How long you ask? Since the seventh Harry Potter novel premiered a few years ago. (I still sniffle that there are zero Harry Potter novels left to anticipate.) The book I ordered is The Watchers by Jon Steele. Until I spied it on the shelf of the bookstore, I had never heard of it, not even the author. Oh my, I just googled the author and book title! The Watchers is part of a trilogy (The Angelus Trilogy), I’m in heaven! Another book series! WOOO!

Anyway, this novel should be in by now (it has been a week since it was ordered). This sounds like a thrilling, intricate tale that plunges straight into a plot. I’ve been counting the days until I can finally read it. Soon I will have enough time to read.

I prefer to read rather dark and controversial novels because they make you think. The characters present different scenarios that allow you to connect and ponder their actions long after you finish the book. The most recent book I read was The Tiger’s Wife by Téa Obreht. It was one of the best novels I have ever read. Each story line in the novel was connected with one another. It was an incredible read. Yes, The Tiger’s Wife was dark and had a couple graphic (violent) scenes, but it was beautifully written. I became so involved with each of the characters and felt empathy for the characters and the tiger himself.

Another great series is His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman. The Golden Compass is the first installment in the series. For me, it was difficult to get into but it’s definitely worth reading. The series is not a beach read. As I read the books I didn’t see the controversial views on religion expressed. Now a few years later after reading the series I can see how others would interpret the books as controversial. But you know what? It’s a friggin’ book series and you should enjoy the novels regardless. When I begin to read a book I don’t pick it apart and see what’s wrong with it. The series is still one of the best in my opinion. I think you should be able to appreciate books without the hinders of opposing viewpoints. Shouldn’t reading be a pleasure and not an agony?

It’s amazing how this post got so off topic. My English teacher would have a fit.

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