It’s been a rough weekend for everyone, hasn’t it?
My advice? Read to your kids. Read all that you can for as long as you can—but read with and to your kids. I’ve got a new post up at ChicagoNow with a few suggestions. Check ‘em out:
http://www.chicagonow.com/litzyditz/2012/12/read-to-your-kids-dammit/
Hey all!
It’s been a busy week so far—finished the fab fab fab “Dark Places” over the weekend and am also making a couple of holiday recommendations if you need a read with a seasonal theme. Check out my last two posts:
Read That? Now Read This: Gilllian Flynn
Gifts and Gore: Two Alternative Christmas Stories
Book buds!
My “Best of 2012″ list is up over at my new home on ChicagoNow:
http://www.chicagonow.com/litzyditz/2012/12/litzyditzs-besties-for-2012/
I’m excited to announce that LitzyDitz is joining my blogging buddies at ChicagoNow!
Same concept—just taking the blog over to a new WordPress platform so that hopefully, I can share a little book love with a lot more people. I really, really hope all my WordPress friends follow me over and “like” my new home or at least my Facebook page, where you can always catch the latest review. Come join the party!
http://www.chicagonow.com/litzyditz/
Peace out!
The Pulitzer Awards are the book industry’s Oscars—and it was with great anticipation that I waited for the release of the list of winners. Only to be followed with an audible “WTF?” when it became clear there was no winner in the fiction category for the first time since the late 70s.
Book geek message boards began to light up with similar reactions—2011 was such a fantastic year for fiction, I thought, how could it be possible for there to be no winner?
I knew Salon.com writer Laura Miller would have something to say—and her column has offered the most insight so far. Having served as a judge, I do think her opinion carries some heft. She explains the process well, and it’s her assertion that the inability of the board to come together on a book may indicate a larger problem with the public at large—that we, for whatever reason, aren’t reading enough to make any kind of formal pronouncement on which book deserves to be labeled the best.
Chances are good that the three novels recommended by this year’s Pulitzer jury — “Swamplandia!” by Karen Russell, “Train Dreams” by Denis Johnson, and “The Pale King” by David Foster Wallace — are the only three serious new novels many of the board members read last year, apart, perhaps, from one or two others. These people are, after all, pretty busy doing things like editing the Denver Post and running the Columbia Graduate School of Journalism, jobs that are a lot more time-consuming than they used to be, as well as selecting the winners in the other Pulitzer categories.
By all accounts, the group could not reach a majority on any of the three titles recommended by the jury. It’s certainly unlikely that enough of them read fiction widely enough to agree on an alternate choice. In that, they truly are representative of American readers, and that bodes worse for our national literature than a year without a Pulitzer winner.
Hmm. I agree with this to a point. I’m sure that given everything the board does professionally, outside of board deliberations, and their Pulitzer duty, is enough work to stop a team of oxen in its tracks. Still, I think it’s an incredible disservice to literature to avoid choosing a selection. The Pulitzer already suffers from its snobbish perception—only made worse when it appears as if the board can’t agree on one.single.book! to bestow the honor upon. As someone who loves to read, I shudder at the thought of thousands of casual readers not knowing there’s something better than “Twilight.”
The Pulitzer raises awareness. The Pulitzer can take a wonderful but obscure book and knock the likes of Snooki off the display table for at least a few days. For just a little while on the literary calendar, authors like Karen Russell, David Foster Wallace and Denis Johnson get a little more attention than Stephanie Meyer and EL James.
And I’ll admit—I have yet to read any of the three finalists, though they are now on my short (ha!) list. Maybe that’s the positive we can take from this—that all three authors will have garnered some well-deserved attention.
Here are a few others that also received some Pulitzer “buzz” last year that I did get around to reading.
The Evolution of Bruno Littlemore
And a few more of my favorites from 2011:
Happy New Year, Everyone!
This time of year, I send out an email to all my book lovin’ buddies detailing everything I’ve read over the last 12 months. I’ve been sending this New Year’s email for at least 8 years, and it’s the impetus behind my blog. However, it occurred to me just today (blame the addled brain) that there are a number of people for whom I don’t have an email address, so I thought I would throw up the email here as well.
As always, you are welcome to share with friends, family, neighbors and felons. There’s a reader in all of us.
Every Last One (Anna Quindlen)
I kicked off 2011 with a very good read, albeit a really depressing one. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out what is going to happen halfway into the novel, but it isn’t any less shocking when it does. Not recommended for anyone who has suffered a recent loss — it’s pretty traumatic. That said, it’s an excellent story depicting a family that survives the most crushing and tragic of losses and their attempt to adapt to a “new normal.”
An Object of Beauty (Steve Martin)
This is my favorite of all of Martin’s books. Set in the art world in NYC, prior to 9/11, readers learn the story of a young Lacey Yeager as she works her way to the top of the art scene and her way back down. The dude can write.
Ten Thousand Saints (Eleanor Henderson)
I recently read this is being touted as a possible Pulitzer nomination. While not one of my favorites for the year, I can appreciate that it’s extremely well-written, and perhaps that’s the reason for the attention. I personally found the story of these kids, circa mid-80s, really slow and laborious to read. Another story dealing with how people cope with a tragic death. I promise, it’s not a theme.
The Scent of Rain and Lightning (Nancy Pickard)
At the suggestion of a friend, I picked this up and am glad I did — a quick read with an ending I didn’t see coming, even though I was forewarned and therefore trying to figure it out. A classic whodunit involving a wealthy ranching family in Kansas.
These Things Hidden (Heather Gudenkauf)
I loved “Weight of Silence” so I eagerly picked this up — a follow up to her debut effort. I like Gudenkauf more than I ever could Jodi (I like to inflict serious emotional trauma with all of my plot lines) Picoult, because she can tell a great story, even if it’s also a little contrived, without you wanting to throw yourself off a cliff after reading it. Girl does bad thing. Girl goes to prison. Girl gets out of prison. Girl’s family shuns her. Girl needs to make things right. Discuss.
The Night Strangers (Chris Bohjalian)
Love love LOVE Bohjalian. This is way creepier and darker than any of his previous books I have read, but he still kills it with the ending that you never saw coming (or did, and wish you didn’t.) Family moves to New England to escape father’s tragedy (botched water landing of a plane, few survivors) and ends up with much larger problems. Ghosts, creepy people that never age, PTSD and more. Yummy!
The Night Circus (Erin Morgenstern)
Whee! Romance, drama, intrigue … all set amidst a beautiful night circus that is the stuff of dreams. It’s the magical, and maybe a little bit brutal, love story of Marco and Celia, two illusionists doomed to face each other in a battle to the death. Do not skip this book.
The Leftovers (Tom Perrotta)
Another of my favorite authors, Tom Perrotta’s story of a Rapture-like event and it’s aftermath is still a tumbleweed in my brain months later, it’s that good. You would think it would be creepy, or that it doesn’t seem possible, but really, when you read it, it just kind of all makes sense. Again with the family dynamics! I loved following the twists and turns in all these character’s interpersonal relationships, none of which really left me unsatisfied. Another don’t miss book.
Steve Jobs (Walter Isaacson)
A great biography that is a heavy read, but in homage to all things Apple, I felt I had to read. I still struggle with what I think of the man on a personal level, but at the end of the day, those around him that knew and loved him embraced him in totality, and my opinion doesn’t really matter. I’m just glad we got him for a short while. What a difference he made.
The Evolution of Bruno Littlemore (Benjamin Hale)
This was probably the STRANGEST book I read all year, and it’s been getting critical praise. Looking back, I think the story of a chimp that has self-evolved to near-human status has grown on me, and I would love for someone else to read it just so I can debrief, but should you choose to accept the mission, get ready for a seriously wild ride. No joke. It’s freaky.
A Visit From The Goon Squad (Jennfier Egan)
The Pulitzer winner for 2011, I was compelled to read this for cool points. It’s quite good, and it’s series of short-but-entwined stories about a bunch of kids that made a band that grew up and went different ways make it a great “keep in the car and read it while waiting in the car pool line” kind of book. BUT — if you do read it here and there, you may find yourself paging back to remember who is who. Not that that is a bad thing … just a confusing thing.
Leaving Van Gogh (Carol Wallace)
Along the same vein as “Loving Frank” and “The Paris Wife”. Historical fiction, following the last month’s of Van Gogh’s life and the people that surrounded him, especially his personal physician. A sad, sweet story.
Bossypants (Tina Fey)
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA. I snorted just as loudly with this book as I have with anything Sedaris has ever written. Go get it and enjoy.
State of Wonder (Ann Patchett)
Also being touted as a Pulitzer possibility, Ann Patchett takes readers to the Amazon in search of a missing, maybe dead researcher and of an “off the reservation” lead scientist who quite possibly has discovered the fountain of youth — at least for women. Another well-written tale, and if you can suspend reality for a few hours (which, after all, is why some of us read to begin with) you will be wildly entertained.
Run (Ann Patchett)
After “State of Wonder,” I felt obligated to read another Patchett title and to be different, I chose this over “Bel Canto.” I think I may have actually liked this story better, but can’t really offer a reason why — maybe it seemed just a little more … real. I love stories that involved strange family dynamics (definitely a theme here), and this explores a father’s relationship with his sons and the lengths parents are willing to go to protect their brood. From a kid’s perspective, you may walk away feeling like you owe your parents an apology, or maybe not.
Room (Emma Donoghue)
Another popular selection that came from a friend’s recommendation, and AGAIN with family dynamics, it’s the story of one girl, her son, and their “normal” — a small room in which they’re being held captive by a batshit crazy man. I won’t say more other than read it. READ IT.
Before I Go to Sleep (S.J. Watson)
I’ve got a few problems with all the plot contrivances, but overall, a great thriller. Story centers on the 40-something Christine Lucas, who is tasked with the unfortunate job of waking each day with no recollection of the last 20 years. Is her husband a good guy? A bad guy? And does she have writer’s cramp from keeping such a long journal? Read and find out.
Attachments (Rainbow Rowell)
A little formulaic but a lot of fun, the story switches off between the narration of a night-time IT security guy at the local newspaper and two columists and their emails back and forth to each other. Sometimes hilarious, sometimes sweet and happy endings all around.
Unfamiliar Fishes (Sarah Vowell)
This was on my to-read list for two reasons: 1) I have to chaperone a high school band trip to Hawaii and 2)I adore Sarah Vowell. She doesn’t disappoint with another well-researched, well-written history of our 50th state, leaving me wondering why history teachers do not ditch the textbook for her work instead. So much funnier and probably more accurate.
Stories I Only Tell My Friends (Rob Lowe)
Total bubblegum book, but the dude doesn’t age – he’s just as good looking as he was when we all had posters of him on our bedroom walls. Maybe a touch over the top, but great beach or weekend at the in-laws read.
When She Woke (Hillary Jordan)
Great book. It’s “The Scarlet Letter” meets “A Handmaid’s Tale. If you’re in a man-hating, government-intrusion-hating mood, you will dig this. And you’ll want to steer clear of tanning beds for awhile.
Unbroken (Laura Hillenbrand)
My guess is that most people have already read this, so it should come as no surprise when I say WOW. What an amazing piece of nonfiction. Supposedly, a movie is in the works, and I will be first in line to see it. If you’ve yet to pick this up, what are you waiting for?
The Family Fang (Kevin Wilson
Kooky family dynamics (yes!), performance artists, messed up kids as adults — I breezed through it during a 6-hour car ride. What a whack set of parents!
11/22/63 (Stephen King)
I’m so glad I found one of my favorite authors again. This is a King tour-de-force, but gear up for a long ride at 850 pages. The story might put an end to whatever “what ifs” or “Could would shouldas” you ever wrestle with.
The Art of Fielding (Chad Harbach)
Absolutely one of my favorites for the year. Harbach’s debut effort as a novelist is excellent, as you find yourself rooting for all the characters in this book – ALL of them. (Well, maybe not Pella’s douche of a hubby, but everyone else.) I especially fell in love with Henry Skrimshander and Mike Schwartz, wanting them to both find their way to what’s next after college. Omigosh go get this book.
The Paris Wife(Paula McClain)
Oh, what a tragic love story. I want to climb in the book and sit with Hadley Richardson at a Paris cafe and tell her everything will be OK, even when it won’t. Why does Hemingway have to be such an asshole? She loves you, damnit! Put down the hooch and get it together, man!
My must-reads? The Art of Fielding, 11/22/63, Unbroken, Room, Bossypants, Steve Jobs, The Night Strangers, The Night Circus and The Leftovers.
What I’m reading now? I Want My MTV. (Totally gossipy hilarious fun!!!!)
Someone needs a hug.
A post on HuffPo late last night caught my attention, as does anything book-related. It’s title? “Children’s Books Parents Either Love or Hate.”
Intrigued, I clicked on the article and slideshow of a handful of classics, and was immediately struck dumb at the notion anyone thinks “The Giving Tree” is controversial. The author says this about the Shel Silverstein classic:
My personal top contender for this list. I know some people take away the heart warming message of a parents’ limitless love for a child, but all I see is a story of a mother willing to literally let her child chop her into pieces. He sells her apples when he needs money, takes her branches to built shelter, using her trunk to built a boat to sail far away (from her.) When that journey doesn’t go so well he comes back and sits on her stump. And not once does he say thank you.
Really? REALLY? I wish I could take her out for what is probably a much-needed kid break and cup of coffee. I don’t think her opinion is invalid, but c’mon … that sounds like the answer you would give when trying to gain access to the “Cup is Half-Empty” club. He doesn’t once say “thank you?” Yeah, that kid’s a real asshole. Yeesh.
Next up, The Rainbow Fish. Here’s what the author said:
Yes, it is a beautiful book, with those shimmery fish scales and all. But the story — of how the hero of the fish tale gives away all those scales to his fish friends so they will like him, is really a mixed up warning not to be different.
A mixed up warning not to be different? The message I got was that too much bling is tacky. Spread the sparklies, I say.
I have to admit, I agree with the author’s stance on “The Little Match Girl” and “Junie B. Jones”—although my loathing of Jones is less about her being annoying and more about Barbara Park’s complete disregard for appropriate grammar in the name of making the text more accessible to young readers. But she lost me when she dragged “Olivia” into the mix. You want to hate on the cutest pig in modern literature? Blasphemy!
Say what you will, but my guess is this article leans far into the snark in order to provoke discussion. Mission accomplished. My only concern is that parents would avoid some of these wonderful, WONDERFUL books just because someone woke up on the wrong side of the bed and decided to read way too much into some of the best books a kid could own.
I’m so glad I’m not alone.
I may be one of the few book junkies who has yet to move a Nook, Kindle or iPad. I love the look, feel and heft of a book too much to give it up. I know the day is coming. I’ve been coveting my almost-16-year-old’s ability to annotate directly on his iPad. But … not yet.
I’m going to hang out at the little kids’ table for a little while longer.
It seems that in the world of paper vs. e-book, childrens’ books have yet to embrace the inevitable transition. A recent New York Times article says:
As the adult book world turns digital at a faster rate than publishers expected, sales of e-books for titles aimed at children under 8 have barely budged. They represent less than 5 percent of total annual sales of children’s books, several publishers estimated, compared with more than 25 percent in some categories of adult books.
It makes sense. My kids are beyond the “learning how to read ” phase, and while I can say an iPad would have been a helpful learning tool, I can hardly see it taking place of a warm snuggle-under-the-covers reading session at bedtime with a favorite board book, picture book or even a chapter book. I don’t want to look at Eloise or Olivia from a 5 inch-by-8 inch screen. I want the real thing, in full-scale, staring back at my daughter and I.
If my kid were to drop a book in the bawth, I want to be OK with that—not screaming, “Holy crap! My Kindle!” If my kid were to throw up on Frog and Toad, I want to not mind replacing it with a fresh copy. Mostly, I just want to catch them with the flashlight under the covers—not that techno glow of a tablet. That’s just kind of sad, don’t you think?
Because I was so addicted to the Harry Potter series, I promised myself that I was going to avoid any and all teen/YA series for a while. Because standing in line with your 4-year-old at 11:30 p.m. in a packed bookstore holding costume contests just isn’t healthy. (It’s OK—I came to my senses around Book 5 and hit Target at 8 a.m. for the remaining books.)
And yet, I’m strangely drawn to the Eragon series and am thinking I might have to feast on a few, now that the last in the 4-book series, Inheritance, is about to be published. In an article appearing in the Washington Post, author Christopher Paolini confirms all that I suspected—that I should be mad jealous of his talent (and c’mon, a little luck. I bet there are more than a few 15-year-olds that have written novels equally worthy of publication), and the fact that even though just brushing the early side of his 30s, he’s sitting pretty in a house in Montana. Damnit!
Mostly, though, I appreciated this comment, when asked about kids that may aspire to be just like him:
“There are a couple of main things. Just writing a lot doesn’t necessarily make you a better writer. You have to hear yourself as a writer, and the best way to do that is to read your writing out loud. Then you’ll be able to hear things that sound wrong. I think I learned most from editing, both editing myself and having someone else edit me. It’s not always easy to have someone criticize your work, your baby. But if you can swallow your ego, you can really learn from the editing.”
I say this ALL THE TIME to the LittleLitzys under my roof, and thus was affirmed that at least in one case, I may be right. It’s my hope my kids will, someday, be able to write well. Especially in an age where the ability to write seems almost optional when it comes to a job hunt and subsequent career. Don’t let anyone ever tell you writing well is not important.
If you have any animal lovers in the home, then the past couple days have been rough. Images of the stacks of big cats coming from the animal preserve in Ohio are tough to see as an adult, let alone a child. (And yes, I am that bad parent who let her 10-year-old daughter watch the news story.) LittleLitzy and I talked about what happened, and I found myself confronted with many “Why? Why? Why?” -related questions.
A trip to the library may be in order—here are at least two titles to look for should you find yourself in a similar spot:
Born Free
Joy Adamson
Well, here you go—a tale of a cat raised in captivity and the owner who loved her enough to let her go. Last year marked the 50th anniversary of the book, and this version is said to include some pretty spectacular photography.
My Life with the Chimpanzees
Jane Goodall
Especially nice touch here—she mentions reading “Dr. Doolittle” as a child, and that being one of the factors in her choice of a career as an adult. See what a good book can do?
