en-US Sun, 26 May 2024 12:14:25 -0700 60 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg 42875803
Alongside a full cast, Michael Biehn and Lance Henriksen reprise their iconic roles as Corporal Hicks and Bishop from the 1986 film Aliens.

Father of cyberpunk, William Gibson’s original script for Alien III, written in 1987 as a sequel to Aliens, never made it to our screens, although it went on to achieve cult status among fans as the third installment that might have been after being leaked online.

This terrifying, cinematic multicast dramatization—directed by the multi award-winning Dirk Maggs, is the chance to experience William Gibson’s untold story and its terrifying, claustrophobic and dark encounters between humans and aliens, as a completely immersive audio experience.

The story begins with the Sulaco on its return journey from LV-426. On board the military ship are the cryogenically frozen skeleton crew of that film’s survivors: Ripley, Hicks, Newt and Bishop.

We travel aboard and hear an alarm blare. Our heroes are no longer alone....

Starring: Tom Alexander, Barbara Barnes, Michael Biehn, Cliff Chapman, Samantha Coughlan, Ben Cura, Dar Dash, Harry Ditson, Mairead Doherty, Lance Henriksen, Graham Hoadly, Lorelei King, Laurel Lefkow, Martin McDougall, Sarah Pitard, Michael Roberts, David Seddon, Andrew James Spooner, Siri Steinmo, Dai Tabuchi, Keith Wickham, Rebecca Yeo.]]> 136 William Gibson 1506708110 Jon 4 The Art was also very fun, especially when depicting the more alien/otherworldly designs.
I also loved that they did something new with the xenomorph, something that Aliens did well with the queen. The full body burst into a skull-faced xenomorph was actually terrifying, as were the depictions of the sad husks that are the aftermath. There was also a substantial amount of dread that went into the way the creature hunted. I even noticed echoes of Prometheus, which I found interesting.
My only slight critique is that I wish there had been more Newt and Ripley. Particularly Ripley. It just doesn’t feel like Alien without her and I would’ve loved to see her thrown into the mix. ]]> 3.26
author: William Gibson
name: Jon
average rating: 3.26
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2019/09/25
date added: 2024/05/26
shelves:
review:
As a lifelong fan of the Alien series, this was a must read. I’m glad to say I was not disappointed in the slightest. The action was, as expected, very cinematic, and I found the plot and twists to be very much in line with the original films.
The Art was also very fun, especially when depicting the more alien/otherworldly designs.
I also loved that they did something new with the xenomorph, something that Aliens did well with the queen. The full body burst into a skull-faced xenomorph was actually terrifying, as were the depictions of the sad husks that are the aftermath. There was also a substantial amount of dread that went into the way the creature hunted. I even noticed echoes of Prometheus, which I found interesting.
My only slight critique is that I wish there had been more Newt and Ripley. Particularly Ripley. It just doesn’t feel like Alien without her and I would’ve loved to see her thrown into the mix.
]]> 50027 Discover the origin story of one of the greatest heroes of the Realms—Drizzt Do’Urden—in this thrilling first installment of the Dark Elf Trilogy

Drow ranger Drizzt Do’Urden, first introduced in The Icewind Dale Trilogy, quickly became one of the fantasy genre’s standout characters. With Homeland, Salvatore pulls back the curtain to reveal the startling tale of how this hero came to be—how this one lone drow walked out of the shadowy depths of the Underdark; how he left behind an evil society and a family that wanted him dead.

As the third son of Mother Malice and weaponmaster Zaknafein, Drizzt Do’Urden is meant to be sacrificed to Lolth, the evil Spider Queen, per drow tradition. But with the unexpected death of his older brother, young Drizzt is spared—and, as a result, further ostracized by his family. As Drizzt grows older, developing his swordsmanship skills and studying at the Academy, he begins to realize that his idea of good and evil does not match up with those of his fellow drow. Can Drizzt stay true to himself in a such an unforgiving, unprincipled world?

Homeland is the first book in the Dark Elf Trilogy and the Legend of Drizzt series.]]> 343 R.A. Salvatore Jon 4
THE GOOD:
- LOVED the characters, particularly Zak and the Matron Mother.
-The world building was phenomenal. It felt super lived in, and there was nothing that seemed super forced or "too fantasy", which is often the case in these high fantasy stories.
-The action scenes flowed in a really cinematic way. Usually reading a battle is the least interesting part of an action novel for me, but I genuinely enjoyed these.
-The integration of monsters and creatures from the games. There was a nice variety and I feel like, for someone who plays the games more frequently, that this would be a really fun series of Easter Eggs.

THE "BAD":
- I didn't love Drizzt, to be honest. He felt like a stereotypical antihero/almost too "cool and edgy" for my taste.
- A bit lengthy and drawn out towards the end. I loved the action scenes and storyline, but as the book started to wind down, it felt like a lot of things were being thrown in and added, which felt like it was delaying the action.

SPECIAL SHOUTOUT:
- I loved how awful and weird the character of Alton Devir was. He actually was fascinating to me.

Lastly, the reader of this audiobook, Victor Bevine, had one of the most captivating voices I've ever heard, and I loved his characterizations.
]]> 4.26 1990
author: R.A. Salvatore
name: Jon
average rating: 4.26
book published: 1990
rating: 4
read at: 2019/09/03
date added: 2024/05/06
shelves:
review:
Yes, it's a D+D book (the first of the ones I've ever read) but I was intrigued by the plot synopsis, and had always seen books similar to this when I was a kid at Borders, so I felt like it would be a fun read. I was not wrong.

THE GOOD:
- LOVED the characters, particularly Zak and the Matron Mother.
-The world building was phenomenal. It felt super lived in, and there was nothing that seemed super forced or "too fantasy", which is often the case in these high fantasy stories.
-The action scenes flowed in a really cinematic way. Usually reading a battle is the least interesting part of an action novel for me, but I genuinely enjoyed these.
-The integration of monsters and creatures from the games. There was a nice variety and I feel like, for someone who plays the games more frequently, that this would be a really fun series of Easter Eggs.

THE "BAD":
- I didn't love Drizzt, to be honest. He felt like a stereotypical antihero/almost too "cool and edgy" for my taste.
- A bit lengthy and drawn out towards the end. I loved the action scenes and storyline, but as the book started to wind down, it felt like a lot of things were being thrown in and added, which felt like it was delaying the action.

SPECIAL SHOUTOUT:
- I loved how awful and weird the character of Alton Devir was. He actually was fascinating to me.

Lastly, the reader of this audiobook, Victor Bevine, had one of the most captivating voices I've ever heard, and I loved his characterizations.

]]> 28423799 196 Tom Veitch Jon 4 Nomi Sunrider and Master Thon are two of my favorite Star Wars characters, and listening to their story this way was a really fun and interesting way to revisit them. I was particularly struck by how young Nomi seemed, and how harsh Thon's training would be at times.
Listening to the dramatization, one thing that stood out to me was that Oss Willum truly does have a thing for Nomi. When I was reading this comic as I was younger, I always got that sense, but hearing the actors portray it this way really hammered that home. Imagine how different things would've gone if she'd fallen for him instead of Ulic.
Story-wise, I love the fact that these comics harken back to a more high-fantasy Star Wars than a space western, which is much more what I am looking for.
Loved this dramatization and definitely going to seek out the sequel, Dark Lords of the Sith.]]> 3.27 1994
author: Tom Veitch
name: Jon
average rating: 3.27
book published: 1994
rating: 4
read at: 2019/12/06
date added: 2022/02/24
shelves:
review:
My first radio drama ever, and I have to say, it was super engaging. While at times it felt like a video game, and there were a few moments where the pauses for music lasted a smidge too long, on the whole, it was incredibly fun. Didn't hurt that this is one of my favorite comics ever.
Nomi Sunrider and Master Thon are two of my favorite Star Wars characters, and listening to their story this way was a really fun and interesting way to revisit them. I was particularly struck by how young Nomi seemed, and how harsh Thon's training would be at times.
Listening to the dramatization, one thing that stood out to me was that Oss Willum truly does have a thing for Nomi. When I was reading this comic as I was younger, I always got that sense, but hearing the actors portray it this way really hammered that home. Imagine how different things would've gone if she'd fallen for him instead of Ulic.
Story-wise, I love the fact that these comics harken back to a more high-fantasy Star Wars than a space western, which is much more what I am looking for.
Loved this dramatization and definitely going to seek out the sequel, Dark Lords of the Sith.
]]> 555313
Halfway across the galaxy, Luke Skywalker has undertaken an equally dangerous expedition that, if it fails, could have fatal consequences for Leia, Han, and Chewbacca. Haunted by ominous dreams and guided by a force he cannot identify, Luke journeys to a remote asteroid field over the planet Pzob. There he discovers the automated dreadnought Eye of Palpatine - from the days of all-out war.

Camouflaged deep within a nebulous gas cloud and dormant for thirty years, Eye of Palpatine is governed by a super-sophisticated artificial intelligence system known as The Will. Taken aboard the dreadnought, Luke is counselled by the spirit of Callista, a Jedi Knight who gave her life to stop the ship once before. Now Luke must learn from her how to destroy it once and for all. The Will has awakened. The Eye of Palpatine is on the move. Its mission: the total annihilation of Belsavis.]]> 416 Barbara Hambly 0553572938 Jon 4
Some highlights and thoughts:
-Callista and Luke are actually a really great couple, albeit a bit strange 80s movie in vibe, but I really do love them. Their original meeting was great, and the moment he saw her laughing at Palpatine’s death were particular standouts.
-Maybe it’s just the scoundrel lover in me, but I’m always her for Han/Leia romance.
-Why does every SW story have to reference Tatooine? I thought it wasn’t important?!
-Imperials having to be told the war was over is a great reference that reminds me of the WWII generals who didn’t believe it was true either.
-The whole subplot with the Ismaren’s was, in a way, an interesting wink at idea of palpatine having children, which is, of course, very present in the current canon. Love seeing these through lines.
-I’ll always be sad that we didn’t get to see Leia as a teacher. ]]> 3.27 1995
author: Barbara Hambly
name: Jon
average rating: 3.27
book published: 1995
rating: 4
read at: 2020/12/31
date added: 2020/12/31
shelves:
review:
I really do have such a soft spot for these cheesy older canon books. The plot and action in this book are both kinda crazy and far fetched, but honestly no sillier than what is going on now in SW. I love it all, and I don’t think silly former canons are a bad thing at all.

Some highlights and thoughts:
-Callista and Luke are actually a really great couple, albeit a bit strange 80s movie in vibe, but I really do love them. Their original meeting was great, and the moment he saw her laughing at Palpatine’s death were particular standouts.
-Maybe it’s just the scoundrel lover in me, but I’m always her for Han/Leia romance.
-Why does every SW story have to reference Tatooine? I thought it wasn’t important?!
-Imperials having to be told the war was over is a great reference that reminds me of the WWII generals who didn’t believe it was true either.
-The whole subplot with the Ismaren’s was, in a way, an interesting wink at idea of palpatine having children, which is, of course, very present in the current canon. Love seeing these through lines.
-I’ll always be sad that we didn’t get to see Leia as a teacher.
]]> 51893821
Authentic meter, stage directions, reimagined movie scenes and dialogue, and hidden Easter eggs will entertain and impress fans of Star Wars® and Shakespeare alike. Every scene and character from the film appears in the book, along with twenty woodcut-style illustrations that depict an Elizabethan version of the Star Wars® galaxy.]]> Ian Doescher Jon 5
As always, my major standout is the translations of Chewbacca’s lines. In particular, his final monologue, when receiving the medal. That brought genuine tears to my eyes, not going to lie.

I really enjoyed Palpatine in this as well. He is already such a grand and over the top villain that he made total sense as the Shakespearean evil he was here.

I can’t overstate how much I just find this whole concept to be really fun. ]]> 4.29 2020
author: Ian Doescher
name: Jon
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2020/11/15
date added: 2020/11/15
shelves:
review:
I love this series. It’s so silly and fun and really just a nice reprieve from everything else I’m reading.

As always, my major standout is the translations of Chewbacca’s lines. In particular, his final monologue, when receiving the medal. That brought genuine tears to my eyes, not going to lie.

I really enjoyed Palpatine in this as well. He is already such a grand and over the top villain that he made total sense as the Shakespearean evil he was here.

I can’t overstate how much I just find this whole concept to be really fun.
]]> 53916650
A young Princess Leia spends her days learning the ways of politics, aiding those in need and preparing for the traditional ceremony in which she declares her intention to one day rule Alderaan. But as Leia prepares herself to be named the heir of the throne, she becomes aware of the growing distance between her and her parents, who behind closed doors are leaders of the newly formed rebellion. Upon learning her parents' secrets, Leia must now make a choice between her responsibility to the people of Alderaan and her responsibility to save a galaxy crushed by the rule of the Empire.]]> 184 Claudia Gray 197535947X Jon 5
The art did an excellent job of finding a balance between the action and scale of Star Wars and the humor and lightness of the source material. It also featured so many great callbacks to iconic moments and shots from the films.

The nods to the saga were really wonderful, and what kept me engaged. I’m also super nerdy for the senate side of SW (I know....) so this was WAY up my alley. The characters in the apprentice legislature were standouts, especially Amilyn Holdo, a fave of mine.

Leia as a character in this was really nuanced. Her frustration at the actions of her parents and how she feels their neglect is palpable, and the moment she learns she undid her father’s work with refugees is an important highlight for me, as it was an eye opener for her that can definitely be traced through her career in the saga as we know it.

Can’t wait for me!]]> 4.22 2019
author: Claudia Gray
name: Jon
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2020/11/09
date added: 2020/11/09
shelves:
review:
I loved this so much. As a huge Star Wars and Leia fan, this was the adaptation I was hoping for.

The art did an excellent job of finding a balance between the action and scale of Star Wars and the humor and lightness of the source material. It also featured so many great callbacks to iconic moments and shots from the films.

The nods to the saga were really wonderful, and what kept me engaged. I’m also super nerdy for the senate side of SW (I know....) so this was WAY up my alley. The characters in the apprentice legislature were standouts, especially Amilyn Holdo, a fave of mine.

Leia as a character in this was really nuanced. Her frustration at the actions of her parents and how she feels their neglect is palpable, and the moment she learns she undid her father’s work with refugees is an important highlight for me, as it was an eye opener for her that can definitely be traced through her career in the saga as we know it.

Can’t wait for me!
]]> 334818
Barbara Cooney's story of Alice Rumphius, who longed to travel the world, live in a house by the sea, and do something to make the world more beautiful, has a timeless quality that resonates with each new generation. The countless lupines that bloom along the coast of Maine are the legacy of the real Miss Rumphius, the Lupine Lady, who scattered lupine seeds everywhere she went. Miss Rumphius received the American Book Award in the year of publication.

The illustrations have been reoriginated, going back to the original art to ensure state-of-the-art reproduction of Cooney's exquisite artwork. The art for Miss Rumphius has a permanent home in the Bowdoin College Museum of Art.]]> 32 Barbara Cooney 0140505393 Jon 5 She felt like an old soul and I love that.
The art really helped transfer this into a bigger deal.
Loved it. ]]> 4.44 1982
author: Barbara Cooney
name: Jon
average rating: 4.44
book published: 1982
rating: 5
read at: 2020/10/12
date added: 2020/10/13
shelves:
review:
I have to say, I loved it. The message was so clear: spread beauty and love.
She felt like an old soul and I love that.
The art really helped transfer this into a bigger deal.
Loved it.
]]> 37510662
We don’t get visitors. Not out here. We never have.

In Iain Reid’s second haunting, philosophical puzzle of a novel, set in the near-future, Junior and Henrietta live a comfortable, solitary life on their farm, far from the city lights, but in close quarters with each other. One day, a stranger from the city arrives with alarming Junior has been randomly selected to travel far away from the farm...very far away. The most unusual part? Arrangements have already been made so that when he leaves, Henrietta won't have a chance to miss him, because she won't be left alone—not even for a moment. Henrietta will have company. Familiar company.

Told in Reid’s sharp and evocative style, Foe examines the nature of domestic relationships, self-determination, and what it means to be (or not to be) a person. An eerily entrancing page-turner, it churns with unease and suspense from the first words to its shocking finale.]]> 261 Iain Reid 150112742X Jon 3 The writing was phenomenal , just as in the other book, and I really loved the way he described locations. I really felt like I could see the corn, smell the fire, and live in the house he described.
I was also bested by this book, if that’s the right word. I guessed the twist, but I guessed it too late. I had the swap placed at the burning barn, but that was totally the intention.
I have to say that I’m pretty sure the ending that I kinda wanted is what happened (Terrence and Hen) but also think he might’ve been just facilitating her way out. Either way, WOW, the ending surprised me. And I was surprised with how mad at it I was. It’s so obvious but he’s so oblivious.
But I guess that’s just this writer’s ability. It wasn’t as overtly scary as the last one but I did really like this one. ]]> 3.70 2018
author: Iain Reid
name: Jon
average rating: 3.70
book published: 2018
rating: 3
read at: 2020/09/11
date added: 2020/09/11
shelves:
review:
After reading I’m Thinking of Ending Things, I was ready to expect the unexpected. That being said, I didn’t expect this. This book had a really cool plot and a really big sense of “uh oh what’s next�� that I enjoyed, but the lack of a likable character, at least in my opinion, held me back. I felt sorry for Junior1 when it appeared the Junior2 was a dick, but other than that, the most likable person was Terrance and that’s mostly because I found him amusingly unnerving.
The writing was phenomenal , just as in the other book, and I really loved the way he described locations. I really felt like I could see the corn, smell the fire, and live in the house he described.
I was also bested by this book, if that’s the right word. I guessed the twist, but I guessed it too late. I had the swap placed at the burning barn, but that was totally the intention.
I have to say that I’m pretty sure the ending that I kinda wanted is what happened (Terrence and Hen) but also think he might’ve been just facilitating her way out. Either way, WOW, the ending surprised me. And I was surprised with how mad at it I was. It’s so obvious but he’s so oblivious.
But I guess that’s just this writer’s ability. It wasn’t as overtly scary as the last one but I did really like this one.
]]> 1309276 195 Darwyn Cooke 1401215297 Jon 5 At times, the stories felt familiar, but in a way that flirted and toyed with reference, rather than being direct copies. Examples include how Selina’s story was essentially a Spirit heist, or how the first story was very reminiscent of Mask of the Phantasm. However, they just WORKED. Everything just felt well crafted, and this is the Batman I fell in love with.
This just made me think how I’d love to see Cooke’s take on Bond, and how he’d balance the less than ideal aspects of that character.
A particular highlight for me was tugging at our heartstrings in one story only to shed them in a terrible light later. What a fun reversal!
Also, this may be the only time I’ve cared for the whole “I need to give this up�� Batman.]]> 3.96 2007
author: Darwyn Cooke
name: Jon
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2007
rating: 5
read at: 2020/09/11
date added: 2020/09/11
shelves:
review:
God I miss Darwyn Cooke. His art will always have a spot in my heart, and this was a shining example. Everything from Catwoman’s flashy action to the menacing Batman psyche-demon was impeccable and I truly love his art.
At times, the stories felt familiar, but in a way that flirted and toyed with reference, rather than being direct copies. Examples include how Selina’s story was essentially a Spirit heist, or how the first story was very reminiscent of Mask of the Phantasm. However, they just WORKED. Everything just felt well crafted, and this is the Batman I fell in love with.
This just made me think how I’d love to see Cooke’s take on Bond, and how he’d balance the less than ideal aspects of that character.
A particular highlight for me was tugging at our heartstrings in one story only to shed them in a terrible light later. What a fun reversal!
Also, this may be the only time I’ve cared for the whole “I need to give this up�� Batman.
]]> 54993516 240 Ari Aster 1733992030 Jon 4
I loved it. The forward by Bong Joon Ho and the piece be Leslie Jamison were both impeccable, and brought to mind the heart of this film’s effectiveness, family trauma.

Ari Aster’s shot list was amazing! This is exactly how I communicate (and souls block scenes), so to see that translated here was so interesting.

My biggest takeaway is that I need to rewatch the film. Several things popped out at me reading this that I didn’t notice and I would love to rewatch it with that in mind.

Definitely a fan of the book format here, issues aside, and going to break open my copy of The Witch next.
]]> 4.65 2018
author: Ari Aster
name: Jon
average rating: 4.65
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2020/08/28
date added: 2020/08/28
shelves:
review:
Yes, I’m aware of the twitter thread with the poorly cut photographs. Maybe it’s because I love coffee table books, but I wasn’t bothered by it. This may also be because the photos were my least favorite part.

I loved it. The forward by Bong Joon Ho and the piece be Leslie Jamison were both impeccable, and brought to mind the heart of this film’s effectiveness, family trauma.

Ari Aster’s shot list was amazing! This is exactly how I communicate (and souls block scenes), so to see that translated here was so interesting.

My biggest takeaway is that I need to rewatch the film. Several things popped out at me reading this that I didn’t notice and I would love to rewatch it with that in mind.

Definitely a fan of the book format here, issues aside, and going to break open my copy of The Witch next.

]]> 17131902 124 James Stokoe 1613775954 Jon 5 Ota is such a great Everyman to follow, and his emotional journey towards acceptance of his “rival�� added the heart that makes so many of the original Toho movies so successful.
Particular shout out to a few moments that made me smile:
- “Get ‘me Mother Mothra!��
- two Godzillas are better than one
- how much focus Hedorah got
- Ota’s partner
- Ota’s final chapter in arctic
- the art the art the Art!
]]> 4.20 2013
author: James Stokoe
name: Jon
average rating: 4.20
book published: 2013
rating: 5
read at: 2020/08/25
date added: 2020/08/25
shelves:
review:
This was EXACTLY what I wanted it to be, and sometimes that is the best feeling. The majority of this book is fan service and allusion to favorite movies/moments in the Godzilla canon, but that only serves to bolster the story here. It felt great to see the cameo appearances of the various creatures, and see how their individual personalities shown through.
Ota is such a great Everyman to follow, and his emotional journey towards acceptance of his “rival�� added the heart that makes so many of the original Toho movies so successful.
Particular shout out to a few moments that made me smile:
- “Get ‘me Mother Mothra!��
- two Godzillas are better than one
- how much focus Hedorah got
- Ota’s partner
- Ota’s final chapter in arctic
- the art the art the Art!

]]> 40605223 Now a Netflix original movie, this deeply scary and intensely unnerving novel follows a couple in the midst of a twisted unraveling of the darkest unease. You will be scared. But you won’t know why��

I’m thinking of ending things. Once this thought arrives, it stays. It sticks. It lingers. It’s always there. Always.

Jake once said, “Sometimes a thought is closer to truth, to reality, than an action. You can say anything, you can do anything, but you can’t fake a thought.��

And here’s what I’m thinking: I don’t want to be here.

In this smart and intense literary suspense novel, Iain Reid explores the depths of the human psyche, questioning consciousness, free will, the value of relationships, fear, and the limitations of solitude. Tense, gripping, and atmospheric, I’m Thinking of Ending Things pulls you in from the very first page…and never lets you go.]]> 241 Iain Reid Jon 4 I found the whole thing to be abnormal, and totally strange, yet the voice was so familiar and conversational that it flew by.
I can definitely see how this is being adapted into a movie, and I wish I’d stayed away from the trailer before reading it, as I wish I had no preconceived ideas of how this looked.
I totally understand how this book is not for everyone. The final act is a free fall. Reading it, I was confused and scared and tense, barely able to go fast enough, like I was barreling around the corners of the building with the narrator.
I am so excited to read the next book by this author.]]> 3.53 2016
author: Iain Reid
name: Jon
average rating: 3.53
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2020/08/23
date added: 2020/08/23
shelves:
review:
It’s been a long time since a book really grabbed me like this one. If I wasn’t always tired, I definitely would’ve devoured this in one sitting. The other obstacle to that is much more notable; I was afraid to read this at night. Something about the way this book described fear made my hair stand on end, which is funny because I was experiencing exactly the sensation that the book was describing: that of being watched.
I found the whole thing to be abnormal, and totally strange, yet the voice was so familiar and conversational that it flew by.
I can definitely see how this is being adapted into a movie, and I wish I’d stayed away from the trailer before reading it, as I wish I had no preconceived ideas of how this looked.
I totally understand how this book is not for everyone. The final act is a free fall. Reading it, I was confused and scared and tense, barely able to go fast enough, like I was barreling around the corners of the building with the narrator.
I am so excited to read the next book by this author.
]]> 189556 From the Outer Rim to the Galactic Core, countless different species populate the galaxy. While most members of each of these alien races share similar characteristics, among every species--from Geonosians and Jawas to Clawdites and Krish--great heroes and despicable villains can be found.
This sourcebook features:
- Descriptions of 180 alien species, including those from Episode II: Attack of the Clones.
- New prestige classes, including the Aerobat, the Changeling, and the Findsman.
- Species-specific gear and weapons, including Nagai electromesh armor, the Cerean meditation crystal, and the Kerestian darkstick.
To use this sourcebook, you also need the" Star Wars Roleplaying Game Revised Core Rulebook."
]]> 224 Eric Cagle 0786928883 Jon 4 I really loved reading this book. As someone relatively new to tabletop gaming, but obsessed with Star Wars, this was really fun to delve into. Right off the bat, I noticed a few things that really intrigued me. Firstly, the use of a wide varying style in terms of the artwork felt like a really cool choice, and made it exciting (although some didn’t read the descriptions too well, I noticed). This was also written between Episodes II and III, as they don’t include the races or events from RotS. I found it strange that there was such a huge number of primative races.

Some races were stacked in terms of statistics: ikotchi, givin, sludir, krevaki, balosars, and whiphids.

Several Highlights jumped out at me:
-Adarian sonic boom
-Anomid curiosity +4 knowledge on species
-Anx anatomical awareness
-I love the baragwin
-Cerean magnetic blades
-Feeorin stronger with age!
-Koorivar rolling with extra money is really cool
-Love myneyrsh technophobia
-Neti shape changing is cool
-Southern nikto all the way
-Ortolans loving food is great
-Didn’t know quermians were telepathic
-Snivvians are interesting, between their history and multi classing
-Thakwaash multiple personalities is interesting
-Toong anxiety is so funny
-Love the woostid holocron database
-Troiken sounds like hell
-Loved the zabrak homeworld
-Big game hunters ignore damage reduction is so cool, as is bodyguards blanket protection]]> 3.88 2003
author: Eric Cagle
name: Jon
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2003
rating: 4
read at: 2020/08/08
date added: 2020/08/09
shelves:
review:

I really loved reading this book. As someone relatively new to tabletop gaming, but obsessed with Star Wars, this was really fun to delve into. Right off the bat, I noticed a few things that really intrigued me. Firstly, the use of a wide varying style in terms of the artwork felt like a really cool choice, and made it exciting (although some didn’t read the descriptions too well, I noticed). This was also written between Episodes II and III, as they don’t include the races or events from RotS. I found it strange that there was such a huge number of primative races.

Some races were stacked in terms of statistics: ikotchi, givin, sludir, krevaki, balosars, and whiphids.

Several Highlights jumped out at me:
-Adarian sonic boom
-Anomid curiosity +4 knowledge on species
-Anx anatomical awareness
-I love the baragwin
-Cerean magnetic blades
-Feeorin stronger with age!
-Koorivar rolling with extra money is really cool
-Love myneyrsh technophobia
-Neti shape changing is cool
-Southern nikto all the way
-Ortolans loving food is great
-Didn’t know quermians were telepathic
-Snivvians are interesting, between their history and multi classing
-Thakwaash multiple personalities is interesting
-Toong anxiety is so funny
-Love the woostid holocron database
-Troiken sounds like hell
-Loved the zabrak homeworld
-Big game hunters ignore damage reduction is so cool, as is bodyguards blanket protection
]]> 32941139 COLLECTING: STAR WARS: DOCTOR APHRA 1-6]]> 152 Kieron Gillen 1302906771 Jon 4 I particularly loved all the supporting characters (shout out to the best droids since the original duo), and in particular am curious to see if the imperial commander makes a reappearance in later issues.
Loved the world building with her father’s mission as well. Very Indiana Jones, which allowed for the juxtaposition between them
Can’t wait to read the others. ]]> 3.96 2017
author: Kieron Gillen
name: Jon
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2020/07/20
date added: 2020/07/20
shelves:
review:
I’ve wanted to start this for a long time, and figured it was time to revisit some Star Wars comics. I’ve been really curious about the new canon series, and especially about this character, a queer roguish archeologist. So fun!
I particularly loved all the supporting characters (shout out to the best droids since the original duo), and in particular am curious to see if the imperial commander makes a reappearance in later issues.
Loved the world building with her father’s mission as well. Very Indiana Jones, which allowed for the juxtaposition between them
Can’t wait to read the others.
]]> 38748572
In the uncertain social and political climate of 1972 Detroit, hard-nosed, chain-smoking tabloid reporter Elena Abbott investigates a series of grisly crimes that the police have ignored. Crimes she knows to be the work of dark occult forces. Forces that took her husband from her. Forces she has sworn to destroy.

Hugo Award-nominated novelist Saladin Ahmed ( Star Canto Bight, Black Bolt ) and artist Sami Kivelä ( Beautiful Canvas ) present one woman's search for the truth that destroyed her family amidst an exploration of the systemic societal constructs that haunt our country to this day.]]> 128 Saladin Ahmed 1684152453 Jon 4 The tone was exactly what I wanted, feeling like an old school Scorsese movie mixed with an episode of Buffy and then given a heartfelt center and the backdrop of racial prejudice. It felt so timely.
Two huge highlights for me were Amelia (shout out to my new fave queer character) and the layout of the pages. Wow was the art beautiful. I particularly loved the layout of Elena visiting her ex-husband at work, which was laid out over panels spread to look like polaroids.
So so good.]]> 4.02 2018
author: Saladin Ahmed
name: Jon
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2020/07/19
date added: 2020/07/19
shelves:
review:
One of the best comic reading experiences I’ve had in a long time. Part Sugar Hill, part Anita Blake, entirely Elena. Abbott is one of the hands down coolest characters I’ve read, and I would love to see this grow and expand. Tv? Movies? More comics? Any and all please.
The tone was exactly what I wanted, feeling like an old school Scorsese movie mixed with an episode of Buffy and then given a heartfelt center and the backdrop of racial prejudice. It felt so timely.
Two huge highlights for me were Amelia (shout out to my new fave queer character) and the layout of the pages. Wow was the art beautiful. I particularly loved the layout of Elena visiting her ex-husband at work, which was laid out over panels spread to look like polaroids.
So so good.
]]> 49827048
Elizabeth I is the only unmarried woman to have ever ruled England. And she reigned for forty-four years. Mastermind. Seductress. Survivor.

Created by award-winning writer Ella Hickson and director Natalie Abrahami, Swive [Elizabeth] shines a light on the ways and means by which women in power negotiate patriarchal pressure in order to get their way.

It premiered in the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse at Shakespeare's Globe, London, in December 2019.]]> 89 Ella Hickson 1788503007 Jon 5 At the beginning, with Elizabeth’s constant praying and fear of the dark, it almost read like a horror movie, before falling back into the traditional courtly dramas. All in all, I think the vibe was Dark Shadows in a way for me (and that is a compliment, believe me).
I particularly loved the entire episode with the Seymour/Parr family. Her budding savvy, combined with some of the best dialogue in the entire piece, made this the highlight for me.
The younger Elizabeth is, to me, the most intriguing character, as she fluctuates between afraid and tender to icy and official so easily that it’s jarring.
Favorite line I’ve read in a long time:
“Don’t use your intellect on me. I gave it to you.”]]> 3.61
author: Ella Hickson
name: Jon
average rating: 3.61
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2020/07/18
date added: 2020/07/18
shelves:
review:
As I’m a huge sucker for anything Elizabeth, this was a must read and I have to say, this may be my favorite Elizabeth in theatre that I’ve read. The dialogue alone was wonderful and really pulled you in, and I loved the way the roles were broken up.
At the beginning, with Elizabeth’s constant praying and fear of the dark, it almost read like a horror movie, before falling back into the traditional courtly dramas. All in all, I think the vibe was Dark Shadows in a way for me (and that is a compliment, believe me).
I particularly loved the entire episode with the Seymour/Parr family. Her budding savvy, combined with some of the best dialogue in the entire piece, made this the highlight for me.
The younger Elizabeth is, to me, the most intriguing character, as she fluctuates between afraid and tender to icy and official so easily that it’s jarring.
Favorite line I’ve read in a long time:
“Don’t use your intellect on me. I gave it to you.��
]]> 39884337 482 Kwame Mbalia 1368039936 Jon 4 One thing I’ve noticed with the last few YA novels that I’ve read is that the stakes feel so much higher, and the scenes feel so much darker. I’d be really interested in seeing someone do a rewrite (reboot) of certain passages of YA from “my time�� and embrace this tone. In particular, I found this book to not be afraid to go there. It was very open about slavery, and the monsters (particularly the Brand Flies) were horrific. Also, the fact that they were not willing to shy away from grief, guilt, and shame was amazing, and something I truly wish more books had tackled when I was younger.
The main highlights for me were the narration, which was cinematic, fun, and very off the cuff, and then, of course, Gum Baby. Well, all the characters, but I have to shout out Gum Baby, who surprised me, as I normally HATE those kinds of characters.
I also enjoyed that even I, with my limited understanding of his work, could clock this as a Riordan-adjacent work. It had a really familiar tone that blended the modern world and the mythological seamlessly.
All in all, I can’t wait for the sequel.]]> 4.16 2019
author: Kwame Mbalia
name: Jon
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2020/07/16
date added: 2020/07/16
shelves:
review:
It took me a few chapters to really get into the swing of things, but once I did, I loved that it just kept going. The momentum within the story was wonderful, and I can totally see how it would keep younger audiences engaged.
One thing I’ve noticed with the last few YA novels that I’ve read is that the stakes feel so much higher, and the scenes feel so much darker. I’d be really interested in seeing someone do a rewrite (reboot) of certain passages of YA from “my time�� and embrace this tone. In particular, I found this book to not be afraid to go there. It was very open about slavery, and the monsters (particularly the Brand Flies) were horrific. Also, the fact that they were not willing to shy away from grief, guilt, and shame was amazing, and something I truly wish more books had tackled when I was younger.
The main highlights for me were the narration, which was cinematic, fun, and very off the cuff, and then, of course, Gum Baby. Well, all the characters, but I have to shout out Gum Baby, who surprised me, as I normally HATE those kinds of characters.
I also enjoyed that even I, with my limited understanding of his work, could clock this as a Riordan-adjacent work. It had a really familiar tone that blended the modern world and the mythological seamlessly.
All in all, I can’t wait for the sequel.
]]> 6282781 240 Rita Dove 0393070085 Jon 5 A particular highlight to me was the vocabulary and language chosen. So fun!
My personal favorite sections were Eroica, an interlude with Beethoven enjoying nature, and the below passage describing an organ:

“Understand, all music is physical
Bassoons rattle bones; a violin tweedles
And like a tooth biting down on a sweet pierces the brain. But the organ climbs into your chest, squeezing as it shudders-a great lung hauling it’s grief through the void until we can hear how profound the world has failed us.”]]> 4.00 2009
author: Rita Dove
name: Jon
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2009
rating: 5
read at: 2020/07/15
date added: 2020/07/15
shelves:
review:
Loved it. I really loved it. I found reading this, probably due to the structure, to feel like an event, almost like a game. I got caught up in the nonlinear formatting and the description. The tone and humor also made this one of my favorite books I’ve read this year.
A particular highlight to me was the vocabulary and language chosen. So fun!
My personal favorite sections were Eroica, an interlude with Beethoven enjoying nature, and the below passage describing an organ:

“Understand, all music is physical
Bassoons rattle bones; a violin tweedles
And like a tooth biting down on a sweet pierces the brain. But the organ climbs into your chest, squeezing as it shudders-a great lung hauling it’s grief through the void until we can hear how profound the world has failed us.��
]]> 16241391 72 Qui Nguyen 0573700567 Jon 4 While I originally thought the scenes outside of the campaign took away from it, namely those with Miles, the boyfriend, I found myself coming around to them. This was probably aided by the fact that I loved the character of Vera.
A particular highlight for me was the lack of detail in the stage directions. "He gets eaten by a gelatinous cube and it spits out his bones" or "They rip out her heart and lick it" leave SO much room for interpretation that I can see why this is such a popular play to produce.
Agnes herself was pretty tough to get behind, I found myself yelling like you do at the tv when your main character keeps getting in their own way, but I can understand where the playwright was going in terms of her arch, so that redeemed it to me. Wow, run on sentence...]]> 3.87 2012
author: Qui Nguyen
name: Jon
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2012
rating: 4
read at: 2020/07/06
date added: 2020/07/06
shelves:
review:
Wow. Maybe it's because I am currently playing D&D seriously for the first time, but this really hit home. I enjoyed it so much, and would LOVE to be involved in a planning a production of this. I found the exploration of the relationships within the context of a campaign to be really well done, even if the ending reveal felt a little on the nose. I definitely teared up a few times as well.
While I originally thought the scenes outside of the campaign took away from it, namely those with Miles, the boyfriend, I found myself coming around to them. This was probably aided by the fact that I loved the character of Vera.
A particular highlight for me was the lack of detail in the stage directions. "He gets eaten by a gelatinous cube and it spits out his bones" or "They rip out her heart and lick it" leave SO much room for interpretation that I can see why this is such a popular play to produce.
Agnes herself was pretty tough to get behind, I found myself yelling like you do at the tv when your main character keeps getting in their own way, but I can understand where the playwright was going in terms of her arch, so that redeemed it to me. Wow, run on sentence...
]]> 51823345 Fleabag, from fringe theatre hit to international cultural phenomenon, in this special edition �� featuring the original playscript, never-before-seen colour photos, and exclusive bonus content by Phoebe, director Vicky Jones and key members of the creative team.

In 2013, Fleabag made its debut as a one-woman show in sixty-seater venue the Big Belly, at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe's Underbelly. It was an immediate hit, going on to enjoy two runs at London's Soho Theatre, national and international tours, whilst picking up prizes including Critics' Circle, The Stage, Fringe First and two Off West End Theatre Awards, plus an Olivier Award nomination.

The 2016 TV adaptation propelled Fleabag and Phoebe to worldwide fame, earning critical acclaim and further accolades including Writers' Guild, Royal Television Society and BAFTA Television Awards. A second series, nominated for eleven Emmys, followed in 2019, along with a sold-out run of the original play in New York.

This special edition is released alongside Fleabag's first West End run at Wyndham's Theatre, London. It is introduced by Deborah Frances-White, stand-up comedian, writer and host of The Guilty Feminist podcast.]]> 95 Phoebe Waller-Bridge 184842888X Jon 5
-God bless the slutty pizza monologue
-love the fact that the directions give you options re:other characters. Thought that was fun, and would love to conceive the same scene in a bunch of different ways.
-the whole Joe/Hilary ending made me cringe a lot
-the throwaway line about seeing the dad not answer the door got me

All in all, I found the play to be darker and more harsh than the show, which is the most popular method of seeing this work, but I honestly liked this more. It felt more tangible (what does that say about the world...)

]]> 4.51 2013
author: Phoebe Waller-Bridge
name: Jon
average rating: 4.51
book published: 2013
rating: 5
read at: 2019/10/17
date added: 2020/06/29
shelves:
review:
Well, after watching it, I knew I had to read it, and wow, I was not disappointed. Love love love, is all I really have to say. BUT, some notes I took while reading below:

-God bless the slutty pizza monologue
-love the fact that the directions give you options re:other characters. Thought that was fun, and would love to conceive the same scene in a bunch of different ways.
-the whole Joe/Hilary ending made me cringe a lot
-the throwaway line about seeing the dad not answer the door got me

All in all, I found the play to be darker and more harsh than the show, which is the most popular method of seeing this work, but I honestly liked this more. It felt more tangible (what does that say about the world...)


]]> 275320 In this Caldecott Honor-winning picture book, join Bartholomew Cubbins in Dr. Seuss's classic tale of one king's magical mishap.

Bored with rain, sun, fog, and snow, King Derwin of Didd summons his royal magicians to create something new and exciting to fall from the sky. What he gets is a storm of sticky green globs called Oobleck, which soon causes a royal mess. But with the assistance of the wise page boy Bartholomew, the king (along with young readers) learns that the simplest words can sometimes solve the biggest problems.

While Bartholomew and the Oobleck is one of Dr. Seuss's lesser known works, it is nevertheless totally Seussian and as topical today as when it was first published in 1949, addressing subjects that we know the good doctor was passionate about throughout his life: the abuse of power (as in Yertle the Turtle and Horton Hears a Who); rivalry (as in The Sneetches); and of course, zany good humor (as in The Cat in the Hat and the 43 other books he wrote and illustrated)! This is a perfect way to introduce new readers to an old classic or to reward existing fans.

With his unique combination of hilarious stories, zany pictures and riotous rhymes, Dr. Seuss has been delighting young children as well as helping them learn to read for over fifty years. Creator of the wonderfully anarchic 'Cat in the Hat', and ranked among the world's top children's authors, Dr. Seuss is a global best-seller, with nearly half a billion books sold worldwide.]]> 48 Dr. Seuss 0394800753 Jon 3
Unsurprisingly, it seems the theme of “incompetent ruler who wants to be special and makes a mess of things�� has been around for a while. It felt all too real, especially his refusal (no matter how brief) to apologize.

I also loved the art, but then, I always do in Dr. Seuss books. However, the grey and green, with nothing else, was really striking.

Highlight of the book was definitely how Bartholomew Cubbins keeps abandoning people stuck in the ooblek because they are of no use to him. ]]> 4.04 1949
author: Dr. Seuss
name: Jon
average rating: 4.04
book published: 1949
rating: 3
read at: 2020/06/12
date added: 2020/06/12
shelves:
review:
I was in an admittedly rough mood while cleaning and found this. Knowing I hadn’t read it before, I did!

Unsurprisingly, it seems the theme of “incompetent ruler who wants to be special and makes a mess of things�� has been around for a while. It felt all too real, especially his refusal (no matter how brief) to apologize.

I also loved the art, but then, I always do in Dr. Seuss books. However, the grey and green, with nothing else, was really striking.

Highlight of the book was definitely how Bartholomew Cubbins keeps abandoning people stuck in the ooblek because they are of no use to him.
]]> 22859559
Corinne La Mer claims she isn’t afraid of anything. Not scorpions, not the boys who tease her, and certainly not jumbies. They’re just tricksters made up by parents to frighten their children. Then one night Corinne chases an agouti all the way into the forbidden forest, and shining yellow eyes follow her to the edge of the trees. They couldn’t belong to a jumbie. Or could they?

When Corinne spots a beautiful stranger at the market the very next day, she knows something extraordinary is about to happen. When this same beauty, called Severine, turns up at Corinne’s house, danger is in the air. Severine plans to claim the entire island for the jumbies. Corinne must call on her courage and her friends and learn to use ancient magic she didn’t know she possessed to stop Severine and to save her island home.]]> 240 Tracey Baptiste 1616204141 Jon 4 The characters were a team you instantly wanted to get behind. I particularly loved the fact that they all came from different family lives, and how the book used this to show the various ways people will approach a problem, even at a young age. I definitely clocked the recurring trend of "your people" and the sense of belonging, which didn't feel clunky or forced at all, which is refreshing in books for this age range. Also, just gotta say, I love Dru. She's definitely my favorite character.
One thing that really shocked, but excited me, about this book was the fact that it was not afraid to get DARK. The jumbies were legitimately scary, especially the main villain, Severine. She was the perfect YA villain, equalling my two faves (Kerrigor and Voldemort) in their ferocity but also the almost "fun" quality of their egomaniacal theatricality.
While at first I loved the quick pacing, and found it fun, I did find that this became my only "negative", per se. I really wanted there to be more room to breathe in the final moments, as the back almost felt like it was snowballing and hurtling towards the end.
I am really excited to check out the sequels though. One thing I loved as a young reader was the idea of looking for clues about what came next in the series. Knowing this has two followup books, I'm excited to see if any of the things I noticed come back, as it felt like they were clues for future points.
In closing, I just loved this book. It was such a fun read for me, and really needed.
]]> 3.83 2015
author: Tracey Baptiste
name: Jon
average rating: 3.83
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2020/06/08
date added: 2020/06/10
shelves:
review:
Wow, I really really enjoyed this book! The writing really drew me in, especially the descriptions she used. A huge standout for me is the final climax, with the oranges, the language used was so vivid I really felt like I was there.
The characters were a team you instantly wanted to get behind. I particularly loved the fact that they all came from different family lives, and how the book used this to show the various ways people will approach a problem, even at a young age. I definitely clocked the recurring trend of "your people" and the sense of belonging, which didn't feel clunky or forced at all, which is refreshing in books for this age range. Also, just gotta say, I love Dru. She's definitely my favorite character.
One thing that really shocked, but excited me, about this book was the fact that it was not afraid to get DARK. The jumbies were legitimately scary, especially the main villain, Severine. She was the perfect YA villain, equalling my two faves (Kerrigor and Voldemort) in their ferocity but also the almost "fun" quality of their egomaniacal theatricality.
While at first I loved the quick pacing, and found it fun, I did find that this became my only "negative", per se. I really wanted there to be more room to breathe in the final moments, as the back almost felt like it was snowballing and hurtling towards the end.
I am really excited to check out the sequels though. One thing I loved as a young reader was the idea of looking for clues about what came next in the series. Knowing this has two followup books, I'm excited to see if any of the things I noticed come back, as it felt like they were clues for future points.
In closing, I just loved this book. It was such a fun read for me, and really needed.

]]> 303943 64 David Wojnarowicz 0963109502 Jon 5 Stand outs for me are:
1- the truck stop scene. Felt so real, and without a doubt I’m sure it’s verbatim from the real episode.
2- the incredibly upsetting image of a person wasting away from AIDS but wanting their teddy bear and getting happy when it‘s given to them. I cried.
3- wanting to hit someone post hookup when you are the younger, less experienced one and you know they are taking advantage of you.

The artwork was really stunning, especially when it moved from paintings to more graphic novel/comic style.

A quote that stood out to me was “architecture grows around my body like stone vegetation��.]]> 4.35 1992
author: David Wojnarowicz
name: Jon
average rating: 4.35
book published: 1992
rating: 5
read at: 2020/06/01
date added: 2020/06/02
shelves:
review:
All I can say is that this book both disturbed and fascinated me. This no holds barred, gritty yet still sexy memoir, which then transitioned into a heart wrenching memoir of the AIDS crisis, broke me.
Stand outs for me are:
1- the truck stop scene. Felt so real, and without a doubt I’m sure it’s verbatim from the real episode.
2- the incredibly upsetting image of a person wasting away from AIDS but wanting their teddy bear and getting happy when it‘s given to them. I cried.
3- wanting to hit someone post hookup when you are the younger, less experienced one and you know they are taking advantage of you.

The artwork was really stunning, especially when it moved from paintings to more graphic novel/comic style.

A quote that stood out to me was “architecture grows around my body like stone vegetation��.
]]> 302618
Even as the Alliance arrives, the aliens have almost overcome the Bakura Imperial garrison, whose desperate commander will accept help from any quarter—even Rebel—against an insidious foe that enslaves Human minds to pilot their invincible machines of war and destruction.

While marshalling the tattered Imperial forces, Luke, Han Solo, and Princess Leia must win the trust and cooperation of the Bakurans. For although Imperial Governor Nereus has granted the Rebels temporary amnesty there is the possibility of treachery among those whose first allegiance lies with the Empire.

On the eve of the final explosive onslaught, Rebel and Imperial forces must finally come to terms with each other…or lose the entire galaxy to the hideous servitude promised by a victorious alien enemy.

Capturing the sweep and excitement of the original Star Wars saga, The Truce at Bakura plants a seed of hope for peace, sees the formation of a timeless love, and stands witness to a Jedi's undying sacrifice to defend Humanity against an alien nemesis.]]> 341 Kathy Tyers 0553568728 Jon 5 What drew me to this I particular was the cooperation between members of the empire and the rebels who we grew to love over the course of the original films. I also found myself loving the body horror elements of the villains, with their entechment procedure, and the vibrant cast of Bakurans, from the sinister Kraven-like governor to the senator Luke finds himself falling for to my personal favorite, the elderly force adept who awakens from her coma to aid in civil unrest towards a ruthless regime. Such a fun read.
Special highlight: really interested in how Leia dealt with the news of Vader being her father. This inner conflict was highly interesting to read, especially in a book from so long ago.]]> 3.46 1994
author: Kathy Tyers
name: Jon
average rating: 3.46
book published: 1994
rating: 5
read at: 2020/05/23
date added: 2020/05/26
shelves:
review:
Don’t get me wrong, I love the new Star Wars canon, but wow does the nostalgic in me miss the old EU. This story, which starts moments after the end of Return of the Jedi, felt so close to the original Star Wars that I fell in love with. From strange, otherworldly villains to characters who existed solely in the grey area between good and evil, it hit all the notes of the books that got me interested in this universe in the first place.
What drew me to this I particular was the cooperation between members of the empire and the rebels who we grew to love over the course of the original films. I also found myself loving the body horror elements of the villains, with their entechment procedure, and the vibrant cast of Bakurans, from the sinister Kraven-like governor to the senator Luke finds himself falling for to my personal favorite, the elderly force adept who awakens from her coma to aid in civil unrest towards a ruthless regime. Such a fun read.
Special highlight: really interested in how Leia dealt with the news of Vader being her father. This inner conflict was highly interesting to read, especially in a book from so long ago.
]]> 52362 302 Frank Miller 0930289218 Jon 4 I was pleasantly surprised that, outside of the titular character, who I would argue was almost a framing piece/plot point rather than a character, both the protagonist and antagonist were female. Casey was a phenomenal character (working on casting her in my mind, tbh, but haven’t quite hit it yet) and I can’t stop singing Virgo’s praises. If I were able to cast, I’d suggest Julianne Moore as the voice of Virgo. Or Carla Gugino/Lena Heady for a good Miller throwback.
This also made me want to pursue reading Miller’s Elektra comics, as I feel like the action will be similar, as well as the world building.
Lastly, yes, Samurai Jack brought me to this story, but I actually found it more comparable to Blade Runner, in terms of the aesthetic. ]]> 3.64 1983
author: Frank Miller
name: Jon
average rating: 3.64
book published: 1983
rating: 4
read at: 2020/05/17
date added: 2020/05/19
shelves:
review:
Quintessentially Miller, but honestly, it featured some of my favorite writing of his. I also fell for the art HARD, especially the two page long panels and landscape shots. Art-wise, I was particularly taken by the action, and how it flowed. In a story where movement is so important, especially in the fight sequences, it was portrayed very simply, distinguishing it from the busier designs of Aquarius.
I was pleasantly surprised that, outside of the titular character, who I would argue was almost a framing piece/plot point rather than a character, both the protagonist and antagonist were female. Casey was a phenomenal character (working on casting her in my mind, tbh, but haven’t quite hit it yet) and I can’t stop singing Virgo’s praises. If I were able to cast, I’d suggest Julianne Moore as the voice of Virgo. Or Carla Gugino/Lena Heady for a good Miller throwback.
This also made me want to pursue reading Miller’s Elektra comics, as I feel like the action will be similar, as well as the world building.
Lastly, yes, Samurai Jack brought me to this story, but I actually found it more comparable to Blade Runner, in terms of the aesthetic.
]]> 53098863
COLLECTING: STAR WARS: THE RISE OF KYLO REN #1-4]]> 112 Charles Soule 1302924184 Jon 2 I did, however, love the art. It reminded me of the Star Wars comics of my younger years and I loved it. I also really enjoyed the allusions to the other characters, such as Rey and Palpatine, as he committed his first crime.
All in all, it fit my expectations for a Kylo tie-in, however. I just think he may not be my kind of character after all.]]> 3.88 2020
author: Charles Soule
name: Jon
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2020
rating: 2
read at: 2020/05/12
date added: 2020/05/12
shelves:
review:
To be honest, not my favorite of the new Star Wars miniseries. I found it to kind of flounder between Ben’s softness and the overly dark idea of the Knights of Ren. I also didn’t love how there was a lack of consistency with the way characters viewed him. He was simultaneously a prissy Jedi who was coddled, as well as a dark killer. The last issue especially held a lot of flip flopping for me, personally.
I did, however, love the art. It reminded me of the Star Wars comics of my younger years and I loved it. I also really enjoyed the allusions to the other characters, such as Rey and Palpatine, as he committed his first crime.
All in all, it fit my expectations for a Kylo tie-in, however. I just think he may not be my kind of character after all.
]]> 22372074 Pat Mills Jon 4 Loved the Dathomir setting, especially as someone who loves that planet, from The Courtship of Princess Leia to the Clone Wars/Mother Talzin moments.
I was shocked at how sexual this comic was. It made total sense, but I raised my eyebrows at the mention of mating constantly. It reminded me of the Amazon episodes of the 90s Hercules tv show.
The characters were well done, especially Ros Lai and Yag.
I was interested in this Quinlan Vos, as he was so different than the iteration that came soon after this in the Republic comics. He felt more mature in this one, in a weird way.
Ros Lai revealing herself to the witches and punishing them was very Suspiria.
]]> 3.16 2000
author: Pat Mills
name: Jon
average rating: 3.16
book published: 2000
rating: 4
read at: 2020/05/05
date added: 2020/05/05
shelves:
review:
First and foremost, I LOVED the art style in this comic series. It was reminiscent of several other Star Wars stories I am a fan of and that made me very happy.
Loved the Dathomir setting, especially as someone who loves that planet, from The Courtship of Princess Leia to the Clone Wars/Mother Talzin moments.
I was shocked at how sexual this comic was. It made total sense, but I raised my eyebrows at the mention of mating constantly. It reminded me of the Amazon episodes of the 90s Hercules tv show.
The characters were well done, especially Ros Lai and Yag.
I was interested in this Quinlan Vos, as he was so different than the iteration that came soon after this in the Republic comics. He felt more mature in this one, in a weird way.
Ros Lai revealing herself to the witches and punishing them was very Suspiria.

]]> 28374007 When kingdom come, there will be one.

In every generation on the island of Fennbirn, a set of triplets is born—three queens, all equal heirs to the crown and each possessor of a coveted magic. Mirabella is a fierce elemental, able to spark hungry flames or vicious storms at the snap of her fingers. Katharine is a poisoner, one who can ingest the deadliest poisons without so much as a stomachache. Arsinoe, a naturalist, is said to have the ability to bloom the reddest rose and control the fiercest of lions.

But becoming the Queen Crowned isn’t solely a matter of royal birth. Each sister has to fight for it. And it’s not just a game of win or lose…it’s life or death. The night the sisters turn sixteen, the battle begins.

The last queen standing gets the crown. ]]> 403 Kendare Blake 0062385437 Jon 4 I also found myself bouncing around from character to character and rooting for different people throughout, which I really think is due to the amazing way in which they are written.
In particular, I really enjoyed the descriptions of the poisoner gift. At first it seemed like a bit of a weird choice for the third, but it grew on me, to the point that I think it is my favorite, even if Katherine isn’t.
My only complaint, if you can call it that, was that I found myself yelling at characters for messing up and acting stupidly over and over, and would get so frustrated, but that’s the fun of reading the first book in a series, right?]]> 3.78 2016
author: Kendare Blake
name: Jon
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2020/05/02
date added: 2020/05/02
shelves:
review:
Even though this book took a bit to get going for me, I found myself loving the world that was built, especially the ways that magic was shown to be unforgiving.
I also found myself bouncing around from character to character and rooting for different people throughout, which I really think is due to the amazing way in which they are written.
In particular, I really enjoyed the descriptions of the poisoner gift. At first it seemed like a bit of a weird choice for the third, but it grew on me, to the point that I think it is my favorite, even if Katherine isn’t.
My only complaint, if you can call it that, was that I found myself yelling at characters for messing up and acting stupidly over and over, and would get so frustrated, but that’s the fun of reading the first book in a series, right?
]]> 7716394 159 Sergio Toppi 2908551330 Jon 4 The art reminded me of so many things, from the concept artists Ian McCaig and Dermot Power, who worked on the Harry Potter and Star Wars films, to Jack Kirby’s designs (particularly his Julius Caesar designs), as well as Dave McKean and Brian Froud, who capture fantasy in two very different ways. I particularly loved the designs of the judges and holy men, as well as that of the evil king. I was, however, really put off by the fact that two issues were randomly in color. I will admit to not enjoying that.
The stories were pretty fun however. I particularly enjoyed both the tale of the djinn who turned the man into a dog, as well as those about the merciful general and the dwarf.
Particular highlight for me was the line about the spittle from a foul dragon, as well as the iguana-esque art that accompanied it.]]> 4.47 1984
author: Sergio Toppi
name: Jon
average rating: 4.47
book published: 1984
rating: 4
read at: 2020/04/24
date added: 2020/04/24
shelves:
review:
Obviously the thing to talk about is the amazing artwork, as the tale of Scheherazade is a pretty well known classic.
The art reminded me of so many things, from the concept artists Ian McCaig and Dermot Power, who worked on the Harry Potter and Star Wars films, to Jack Kirby’s designs (particularly his Julius Caesar designs), as well as Dave McKean and Brian Froud, who capture fantasy in two very different ways. I particularly loved the designs of the judges and holy men, as well as that of the evil king. I was, however, really put off by the fact that two issues were randomly in color. I will admit to not enjoying that.
The stories were pretty fun however. I particularly enjoyed both the tale of the djinn who turned the man into a dog, as well as those about the merciful general and the dwarf.
Particular highlight for me was the line about the spittle from a foul dragon, as well as the iguana-esque art that accompanied it.
]]> 23529
Having proved himself peerless in the arena of reinterpreting superheroes, Alan Moore turned his ever-incisive eye to the squalid, enigmatic world of Jack the Ripper and the Whitechapel murders of 1888. Weighing in at 576 pages, From Hell is certainly the most epic of Moore's works and remarkably and is possibly his finest effort yet in a career punctuated by such glorious highlights as Watchmen and V for Vendetta. Going beyond the myriad existing theories, which range from the sublime to the ridiculous, Moore presents an ingenious take on the slaughter. His Ripper's brutal activities are the epicentre of a conspiracy involving the very heart of the British Establishment, including the Freemasons and The Royal Family. A popular claim, which is transformed through Moore's exquisite and thoroughly gripping vision, of the Ripper crimes being the womb from which the 20th century, so enmeshed in the celebrity culture of violence, received its shocking, visceral birth.

Bolstered by meticulous research that encompasses a wide spectrum of Ripper studies and myths and coupled with his ability to evoke sympathies in such monstrous characters, Moore has created perhaps the finest examination of the Ripper legacy, observing far beyond society's obsessive need to expose Evil's visage. Ultimately, as Moore observes, Jack's identity and his actions are inconsequential to the manner in which society embraced the Fear: "It's about us. It's about our minds and how they dance. Jack mirrors our hysterias. Faceless, he is the receptacle for each new social panic."

Eddie Campbell's stunning black and white artwork, replete with a scratchy, dirty sheen, is perfectly matched to the often-unshakeable intensity of Moore's writing. Between them, each murder is rendered in horrifying detail, providing the book's most unnerving scenes, made more so in uncomfortable, yet lyrical moments as when the villain embraces an eviscerated corpse, craving understanding; pleading that they "are wed in legend, inextricable within eternity".

Though technically a comic, the term hardly begins to describe From Hell's inimitable grandeur and finesse, as it takes the medium to fresh heights of ingenuity and craftsmanship. Moore and Campbell's autopsy on the emaciated corpse of the Ripper myth has divulged a deeply disturbing yet undeniably captivating masterpiece. ��Danny Graydon]]> 576 Alan Moore 0861661419 Jon 4 Chapter 10 stood out to me as a highlight while reading, but I feel like like is most likely due to the pacing (it was much more action-focused than others).
I do think this would be a great BBC/HBO miniseries, especially as it really does stand as episodic and they could keep the comic issue vibe. In a dream world, I would see Eggers, and the rest of the team behind The Witch be the team behind this.
What Alan Moore is next for me?]]> 4.19 1999
author: Alan Moore
name: Jon
average rating: 4.19
book published: 1999
rating: 4
read at: 2020/04/14
date added: 2020/04/15
shelves:
review:
After having been a huge fan of League of Extraordinary Gentlemen and V for Vendetta, I decided to give this a try, as it had been sitting on the bookshelf for quite a while. On the whole, I enjoyed it, but I did feel like it needed a bit of paring down with the extraneous plots, such as the cop’s love affair. That being said, I found myself getting super engaged with the masonry plot in particular.
Chapter 10 stood out to me as a highlight while reading, but I feel like like is most likely due to the pacing (it was much more action-focused than others).
I do think this would be a great BBC/HBO miniseries, especially as it really does stand as episodic and they could keep the comic issue vibe. In a dream world, I would see Eggers, and the rest of the team behind The Witch be the team behind this.
What Alan Moore is next for me?
]]> 53141269 Star Wars novel, Journey to Star Wars: The Last Jedi: The Legends of Luke Skywalker.

Luke Skywalker? I thought he was a myth.

�� Rey

Who is Luke Skywalker? Across the galaxies many have heard his name, but few have met the legendary Jedi. There are those who call him a merciless war criminal, others say he’s not even a human, but a droid! Whether he is myth or man, those who claim they’ve encountered the elusive Luke Skywalker all have an unforgettable adventure to share.

Star Wars: The Legends of Luke Skywalker pairs powerhouse Japanese manga creators with inspiring myths about Luke Skywalker, originally written as a prose novel by best-selling author Ken Liu.]]> 208 Akira Himekawa 1974715841 Jon 4 All in all, this was a really fun way to see how the universe views Luke, who still remains a super mysterious character in the new canon.]]> 3.66 2020
author: Akira Himekawa
name: Jon
average rating: 3.66
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2020/02/04
date added: 2020/04/12
shelves:
review:
So fun! I loved it. The vignettes were so enjoyable. My favorites were the second and last, but all three were great. The first felt straight out of Dark Times or the newer Rebels series, while the last one reminded me of the Mortis episodes and the more mystical side of things. The bug tale was so fun and I could totally see him being a fan favorite character in a kid’s show adaptation.
All in all, this was a really fun way to see how the universe views Luke, who still remains a super mysterious character in the new canon.
]]> 2125179 114 Blutch 2909990338 Jon 4 Particular highlights for me were the final panels, the laughing crows, and the way the protagonist’s eyes always showed it was him.
Ultimately, to me, this seems like a story of regretting your romantic decision, in the most extreme way. ]]> 3.52 1997
author: Blutch
name: Jon
average rating: 3.52
book published: 1997
rating: 4
read at: 2020/04/10
date added: 2020/04/09
shelves:
review:
Felt like an art house version of 300, if I’m being honest. And from me, that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Like with Miller, however, I think I may be blinded by how much I enjoyed the art, rather than the plot. To me, though, isn’t this a visual medium? We should be able to appreciate them together, rather than take the art in a comic or graphic novel as an “interpretation�� or adaptation of the text.
Particular highlights for me were the final panels, the laughing crows, and the way the protagonist’s eyes always showed it was him.
Ultimately, to me, this seems like a story of regretting your romantic decision, in the most extreme way.
]]> 209577
Tezuka himself was a humanist rather than a Buddhist, and his magnum opus is not an attempt at propaganda. Hermann Hesse's novel or Bertolucci's film is comparable in this regard; in fact, Tezuka's approach is slightly irreverent in that it incorporates something that Western commentators often eschew, namely, humor.]]> 400 Osamu Tezuka 193223456X Jon 5 This volume feels like a prequel to the actual tales of Buddha, but the characters introduced were really great, and the world has been fully fleshed out now, which I think will definitely help with future volumes.
The art style is a bit all over the place, but reminded me a lot of Usagi Yojimbo in its dark lines and simple color scheme.
The art combined with the humor in a way I don’t really recognize from “western�� comics, and I think that is what made it such a fun and quick read
Highlights:
-all of Tatta. What a crazy character
-the art at Buddha’s birth
-the epic sword and sandals ending]]> 4.18 1972
author: Osamu Tezuka
name: Jon
average rating: 4.18
book published: 1972
rating: 5
read at: 2020/04/07
date added: 2020/04/07
shelves:
review:
I’ve been thinking about and looking at this series for years now, due to the striking cover art, and I finally decided to pick it up.
This volume feels like a prequel to the actual tales of Buddha, but the characters introduced were really great, and the world has been fully fleshed out now, which I think will definitely help with future volumes.
The art style is a bit all over the place, but reminded me a lot of Usagi Yojimbo in its dark lines and simple color scheme.
The art combined with the humor in a way I don’t really recognize from “western�� comics, and I think that is what made it such a fun and quick read
Highlights:
-all of Tatta. What a crazy character
-the art at Buddha’s birth
-the epic sword and sandals ending
]]> 27417 129 Hesiod 0941051005 Jon 5 Very inspirational in terms of the different gods and what they represent. Some things you may not think warrant a deity’s attention get multiple gods assigned to it (looking at you, luck!)
All in all, a very fun popcorn read for a mythology nerd like me.]]> 3.74 -700
author: Hesiod
name: Jon
average rating: 3.74
book published: -700
rating: 5
read at: 2020/03/30
date added: 2020/03/30
shelves:
review:
Loved the biblical “so and so begot so and so�� structure this had. I also really loved the fact that there were so many more named deities! Really highlighted the importance of deities in the life back then.
Very inspirational in terms of the different gods and what they represent. Some things you may not think warrant a deity’s attention get multiple gods assigned to it (looking at you, luck!)
All in all, a very fun popcorn read for a mythology nerd like me.
]]> 2118025 80 Jim Cartwright 057301664X Jon 5 I’m always a sucker for “slice of life�� plays, and this really tapped into an almost nostalgic sense of being a “townie��. It also really highlighted the pub culture, which I found really interesting.
The hunger strike and skinhead scenes are particular stand outs, but it’s very VERY British.
Would love to see this staged. If I were to do it, I would have a stage of layered projector screens with the background being projected over the performer. ]]> 3.61 1986
author: Jim Cartwright
name: Jon
average rating: 3.61
book published: 1986
rating: 5
read at: 2020/03/29
date added: 2020/03/29
shelves:
review:
I’d read scenes from this over the years, and always enjoyed them, so I decided to finally buckle down and read the whole thing. Really glad I did, as this was a great play.
I’m always a sucker for “slice of life�� plays, and this really tapped into an almost nostalgic sense of being a “townie��. It also really highlighted the pub culture, which I found really interesting.
The hunger strike and skinhead scenes are particular stand outs, but it’s very VERY British.
Would love to see this staged. If I were to do it, I would have a stage of layered projector screens with the background being projected over the performer.
]]> 35798468 295 Saladin Ahmed 152479953X Jon 4 What struck me the most was that it was the stories of people like me, those who work mid level jobs in the entertainment world, albeit in Star Wars. I think that was the coolest part, the mundanity of it all.
My personal favorite was the wine seller story, but all of them had their moments of excitement, with the gambling one putting me on the edge of my seat.
Also really enjoyed the fact that this was reminscent of the Star Wars EU books I loved in the past, like Tales from the Mos Eisley Cantina and Tales from Jabba’s Palace.
Definitely loved the glimpse into everyday life and hope the new EU follows this example.]]> 3.38 2017
author: Saladin Ahmed
name: Jon
average rating: 3.38
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2020/03/28
date added: 2020/03/28
shelves:
review:
This book took me a long time to read because I would put several months between the stories. But I’m really happy I buckled down and finished it because it was a lot of fun.
What struck me the most was that it was the stories of people like me, those who work mid level jobs in the entertainment world, albeit in Star Wars. I think that was the coolest part, the mundanity of it all.
My personal favorite was the wine seller story, but all of them had their moments of excitement, with the gambling one putting me on the edge of my seat.
Also really enjoyed the fact that this was reminscent of the Star Wars EU books I loved in the past, like Tales from the Mos Eisley Cantina and Tales from Jabba’s Palace.
Definitely loved the glimpse into everyday life and hope the new EU follows this example.
]]> 52707743 162 Jeremy O. Harris 1559369787 Jon 5 While I found the whole thing uncomfortable, but enthralling, I will say that I personally believe the incredibly intense ending is indicative of a "happy ending" for the characters of Jim and Kaniesha, who are the only likable pair of Partners. I particularly found the homosexual couple to be troubling, but that was the whole point of them.
The way that the music is incorporated into the script is really impressive, and added a very cinematic element to the piece.
Highlight for me: Tea and Patricia are hilarious. In my head, I had two actresses cast, and I couldn't help but stage them in my head. I particularly found all of Tea's lines to be brilliantly crafted, and both hilarious and eye-opening. ]]> 4.17 2020
author: Jeremy O. Harris
name: Jon
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2020/02/28
date added: 2020/03/25
shelves:
review:
Wow. I will admit that I was hesitant to read this, mainly because I saw the hype and was nervous that it wouldn't live up to it, but I am SO glad that I decided to read it. Essentially three long scenes, I think the sheer range of topics covered by the play are the strongest part. I find the whole concept of ASPT to be a step above a Black Mirror episode, but it also does sound like something crazy we would try in 2020. Harris's writing is so good, I want to read everything he's done!
While I found the whole thing uncomfortable, but enthralling, I will say that I personally believe the incredibly intense ending is indicative of a "happy ending" for the characters of Jim and Kaniesha, who are the only likable pair of Partners. I particularly found the homosexual couple to be troubling, but that was the whole point of them.
The way that the music is incorporated into the script is really impressive, and added a very cinematic element to the piece.
Highlight for me: Tea and Patricia are hilarious. In my head, I had two actresses cast, and I couldn't help but stage them in my head. I particularly found all of Tea's lines to be brilliantly crafted, and both hilarious and eye-opening.
]]> 524771 78 Naomi Wallace 088145138X Jon 5 There is a huge underlying theme of power, which plays as very BDSM in this reading of the script.
Having just seen the film, Parasite and this would be wonderfully staged together.
Can’t stop thinking about how haunting Morse is and how much I love the Snelgrave/Bunce scenes.]]> 4.07
author: Naomi Wallace
name: Jon
average rating: 4.07
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2020/03/25
date added: 2020/03/24
shelves:
review:
Wow. What a script. I haven’t felt this drawn to a show in a long time. I have so many thoughts about how this should be presented. A maddening wooden labyrinth of a stage, incorporating jagged/specific choreo to the point of rigidity, etc.
There is a huge underlying theme of power, which plays as very BDSM in this reading of the script.
Having just seen the film, Parasite and this would be wonderfully staged together.
Can’t stop thinking about how haunting Morse is and how much I love the Snelgrave/Bunce scenes.
]]> 50918277
]]> 653 Junji Ito 3551757526 Jon 4 I also enjoyed Ito’s framing in the end. Made this feel like a body horror version of The Twilight Zone.]]> 4.32 2000
author: Junji Ito
name: Jon
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2000
rating: 4
read at: 2019/10/14
date added: 2020/03/22
shelves:
review:
Wow. I thought this was going to be a cliched horror fantasy and I was wrong. Deeply disturbing and visually impressive, my only complaint would be that it started to get a bit TOO episodic. That being said, I really loved it and found the art in particular to be really captivating.
I also enjoyed Ito’s framing in the end. Made this feel like a body horror version of The Twilight Zone.
]]> 11099729 “Did you ever hear the Tragedy of Darth Plagueis the Wise? It’s a Sith legend. Darth Plagueis was a Dark Lord of the Sith, so powerful and so wise that he could use the Force to influence the midi-chlorians to create life. He had such a knowledge of the dark side that he could even keep the ones he cared about from dying.��
—Supreme Chancellor Palpatine, Star Wars: Episode III Revenge of the Sith

Darth Plagueis: one of the most brilliant Sith Lords who ever lived. Possessing power is all he desires. Losing it is the only thing he fears. As an apprentice, he embraces the ruthless ways of the Sith. And when the time is right, he destroys his Master--but vows never to suffer the same fate. For like no other disciple of the dark side, Darth Plagueis learns to command the ultimate power . . . over life and death.

Darth Sidious: Plagueis’s chosen apprentice. Under the guidance of his Master, he secretly studies the ways of the Sith, while publicly rising to power in the galactic government, first as Senator, then as Chancellor, and eventually as Emperor.

Darth Plagueis and Darth Sidious, Master and acolyte, target the galaxy for domination--and the Jedi Order for annihilation. But can they defy the merciless Sith tradition? Or will the desire of one to rule supreme, and the dream of the other to live forever, sow the seeds of their destruction?]]> 379 James Luceno 034551128X Jon 5
Really impressed with how much was covered in this book. From Plagueis�� youth through the aftermath of The Phantom Menace. It was particularly exciting that so many comics and games were referenced and woven into the plot. Super cool for me that my favorite comic, regarding Vidar Kim, is a plot point!

Highlights:
-the assassination of the gran
-“beings may elect their leaders, but the force elected us.��
-the scene with Plagueis and the Kaminoans. Switching tactics in real time was super impressive
-the opening death of Darth Tenebrous
-Jabba

One thing I really enjoyed was how Palpatine was truly split. Both sides are playing each other. He enjoys being the center of attention as chancellor and knew that being a Sith Lord got him ahead, but also needed the reach of his political career to facilitate his ascension in the force.]]> 4.18 2012
author: James Luceno
name: Jon
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2012
rating: 5
read at: 2020/03/13
date added: 2020/03/13
shelves:
review:
Listened to the audiobook and realized that I love the star wars audiobooks a lot. More than any others.

Really impressed with how much was covered in this book. From Plagueis�� youth through the aftermath of The Phantom Menace. It was particularly exciting that so many comics and games were referenced and woven into the plot. Super cool for me that my favorite comic, regarding Vidar Kim, is a plot point!

Highlights:
-the assassination of the gran
-“beings may elect their leaders, but the force elected us.��
-the scene with Plagueis and the Kaminoans. Switching tactics in real time was super impressive
-the opening death of Darth Tenebrous
-Jabba

One thing I really enjoyed was how Palpatine was truly split. Both sides are playing each other. He enjoys being the center of attention as chancellor and knew that being a Sith Lord got him ahead, but also needed the reach of his political career to facilitate his ascension in the force.
]]> 52364490
Travelling almost 5000 miles by train, her journey begins in Moscow and ends in Beijing, passing through the stunning landscapes of Siberia and Mongolia en route.

All aboard the Trans-Siberian Railway!]]> 46 Nina Cosford 1916188206 Jon 4 Really made me want to A)go on an international trip and B) go on a train trip. How would I log my time? Not a sketchbook. Writing blurbs?
Favorite piece in the book was either the depictions of wood in the carpentry shop or the labeled and number diagram of the room, which is EXACTLY the kind of detail I wish more people would use, because I’m super specific and like it.]]> 4.21 2019
author: Nina Cosford
name: Jon
average rating: 4.21
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2019/09/30
date added: 2020/03/13
shelves:
review:
As a longtime fan of the artist, funding this crowdsource was important to me, and I loved the book. It was such a fun snippet of travel that felt like a curated version of their social media presence. Which I guess it is, essentially.
Really made me want to A)go on an international trip and B) go on a train trip. How would I log my time? Not a sketchbook. Writing blurbs?
Favorite piece in the book was either the depictions of wood in the carpentry shop or the labeled and number diagram of the room, which is EXACTLY the kind of detail I wish more people would use, because I’m super specific and like it.
]]> 45166638 85 Jeremy O. Harris 1732545219 Jon 0 to-read 3.12
author: Jeremy O. Harris
name: Jon
average rating: 3.12
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/02/28
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 18635622 368 George R.R. Martin 0345533488 Jon 4 My favorite, by far, was the third tale, but I really loved all of them. My only slight criticism would be that I found them a bit repetitive, as they definitely followed a formula of long intro, action, and a royal Deus ex Machina.
However, I really hope we eventually get more stories about them, as I really love the characters of Dunk and Egg. In particular, Egg is so well written. He feels like an authentic child who then has moments of being a royal. I also loved that Dunk was constantly being framed as a fish out of water.
Can't wait to read more of GRRM's short stories. This felt really nice to read after the let down of the tv show. What a breath of fresh air.]]> 4.24 2015
author: George R.R. Martin
name: Jon
average rating: 4.24
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2020/02/10
date added: 2020/02/10
shelves:
review:
Loved it. I actually think I might care more for these characters and these stories more than I care for the actual events of the Song of Ice and Fire series. This felt like true medieval action, and reminded me of some of my favorites, from Arthurian stories to films like Kingdom of Heaven and A Knight's Tale.
My favorite, by far, was the third tale, but I really loved all of them. My only slight criticism would be that I found them a bit repetitive, as they definitely followed a formula of long intro, action, and a royal Deus ex Machina.
However, I really hope we eventually get more stories about them, as I really love the characters of Dunk and Egg. In particular, Egg is so well written. He feels like an authentic child who then has moments of being a royal. I also loved that Dunk was constantly being framed as a fish out of water.
Can't wait to read more of GRRM's short stories. This felt really nice to read after the let down of the tv show. What a breath of fresh air.
]]> 9308585
Au IIIe siècle avant J.-C., les mercenaires employés par Carthage pendant la première guerre punique se soulèvent contre leurs employeurs qui reportent sans arrêt le paiement de leur solde. Deux chefs de clans barbares, Mathô et Narr’Havas, tombent amoureux de la belle et éthérée ��������������ô, fille d’Hamilcar, le suffète de Carthage. S’ensuivra un conflit sanglant et de maintes surprises du destin. Une guerre qui a plus à voir avec les sentiments d’orgueil, de passion et de désir qu’avec la politique...

��������������ô fut d’abord un roman que Flaubert écrivit à la moitié du XIXe siècle pour s’extraire du monde contemporain, raconter l’exotisme. ��������������ô, Druillet se la réapproprie à partir de 1980, d’abord dans les pages de "Métal Hurlant" puis dans "Pilote". Il transpose les guerres puniques dans le Monde de l’Étoile, et donne à Mathô l’identité de son personnage fétiche, Lone Sloane, venu se perdre dans la guerre pour l’amour d’une femme fatale. Le verbe à la fois sobre et luxuriant de Flaubert est transcendé par les pages incroyables de Druillet, arrivé à la maturité de son talent, qui explose les cadres et s’affranchit des conventions de la bande dessinée.

]]> 192 Philippe Druillet 2723479919 Jon 3 That being said, I loved some of the drastic changes in color work. I particularly loved a moment using translucent pink and baby blue, as well as a full page spread of a bleak, almost greyscale canyon, full of tiny people.
I’m intrigued by the amount of character work going on, which reminded me of Frank Miller, Geiger, and Kirby in particular. Such big, crazy designs, I just wish we’d seen more dynamics and less landscape shots. ]]> 4.18 1989
author: Philippe Druillet
name: Jon
average rating: 4.18
book published: 1989
rating: 3
read at: 2020/02/06
date added: 2020/02/05
shelves:
review:
Compared to La Nuit, I found the art to be a bit too linear in this. Maybe this is because it’s following a prestructured story, with very specific points it has to hit. I also found the frequency of wide army shots to be very boring after a while.
That being said, I loved some of the drastic changes in color work. I particularly loved a moment using translucent pink and baby blue, as well as a full page spread of a bleak, almost greyscale canyon, full of tiny people.
I’m intrigued by the amount of character work going on, which reminded me of Frank Miller, Geiger, and Kirby in particular. Such big, crazy designs, I just wish we’d seen more dynamics and less landscape shots.
]]> 6894318
Born from a personal tragedy, The Night is the darkest, most explosive work of comics legend Philippe Druillet (Lone Sloane, Yragael).

In a post-apocalyptic future of nihilistic anarchy, barbarians and bikers race for the ultimate high, screaming defiance in the face of extinction.

Named by Warren Ellis as a major influence, The Night is an "exegetic" masterpiece.

"Every panel is at war for your attention; every page wants to be your favorite page. A beautifully rendered reminder that everything ends, and time comes for us all." �� Diamond Staff Pick"]]> 80 Philippe Druillet 2226107665 Jon 4 I was particularly in awe of how he could go from a crazy abstract multi page spread and then immediately switch back into an ordered box style comic panel.
I can definitely see his influence in a lot of work, but for some reason the two big parallels for me were Tartakovsky and The Gorillaz, oddly enough, with some Bankin Rass high fantasy thrown in.
Honestly jaw dropping color work.]]> 3.86 1976
author: Philippe Druillet
name: Jon
average rating: 3.86
book published: 1976
rating: 4
read at: 2020/02/06
date added: 2020/02/05
shelves:
review:
Wow. Simply wow. It was amazing to experience it so visually, as his text is almost superfluous to the amazing range of images he shows.
I was particularly in awe of how he could go from a crazy abstract multi page spread and then immediately switch back into an ordered box style comic panel.
I can definitely see his influence in a lot of work, but for some reason the two big parallels for me were Tartakovsky and The Gorillaz, oddly enough, with some Bankin Rass high fantasy thrown in.
Honestly jaw dropping color work.
]]> 20524593 96 Kevin J. Anderson Jon 4 Have to admit I didn’t love Dorsk 82, or the fact that there was only one alien lead, but other than that, it was wonderful.
Reminded me a LOT of the KOTOR comics with Nomi Sunrider.]]> 3.18 2000
author: Kevin J. Anderson
name: Jon
average rating: 3.18
book published: 2000
rating: 4
read at: 2020/01/02
date added: 2020/01/14
shelves:
review:
Had to start the year off with a Star Wars comic. This old canon, little known comic was such a blast to read. I’ve long time maintained that Star Wars is at its best when it leans into the high fantasy aspect of the story, and this terrifying scream/soul eating monster was VERY Legend/Conan in nature. I’m also a sucker for group dynamics and team stories, so this was also great in that regard.
Have to admit I didn’t love Dorsk 82, or the fact that there was only one alien lead, but other than that, it was wonderful.
Reminded me a LOT of the KOTOR comics with Nomi Sunrider.
]]> 441138 240 Carolyn Custis James 0310263905 Jon 3 Made me want more clinical research on these women and if they actually existed.]]> 4.02 2005
author: Carolyn Custis James
name: Jon
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2005
rating: 3
read at: 2020/01/14
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves:
review:
Wow, I really did not know what to expect. I loved learning about stories that get skipped during traditional church/Sunday school, such as Tamar and Hagar. I also loved the more in depth look into Esther, who has always been a favorite. While I don’t see eye to eye with the author’s religious views, I found the academic breaking down of each story to be very interesting.
Made me want more clinical research on these women and if they actually existed.
]]> 161540
Features a bonus section following the novel that includes a primer on the Star Wars expanded universe, and over half a dozen excerpts from some of the most popular Star Wars books of the last thirty years!]]> 374 Dave Wolverton Jon 4
The Good:
-as upsetting as his goal was in this, the romance between Han and Leia was palpable
-world building of Dathomir is wonderful.
-The action really flowed in the end of the book, with the attack on the prison.

The Bad:
-didn’t love the rushed middle part with them getting to Dathomir
-also, for that matter, didn’t love the prolonged opening of the book. Took way too long to get to the action.

The Ugly:
-HATED the kidnapping plot. What the fuck was that?!
-the Nightsisters shouldn’t be gross monsters. I hate that about them in here. They were done much better in different media

Highlights:
-I keep going back and forth over whether or not I love Teniel Djo, but I did love her scenes with Isolder
-namedropping Yoda made me happy.]]> 3.62 1994
author: Dave Wolverton
name: Jon
average rating: 3.62
book published: 1994
rating: 4
read at: 2019/12/18
date added: 2019/12/18
shelves:
review:
Ok, I can totally see why it has the reputation it does, but I really liked it. What a fun traipse into Star Wars romance. Divided below:

The Good:
-as upsetting as his goal was in this, the romance between Han and Leia was palpable
-world building of Dathomir is wonderful.
-The action really flowed in the end of the book, with the attack on the prison.

The Bad:
-didn’t love the rushed middle part with them getting to Dathomir
-also, for that matter, didn’t love the prolonged opening of the book. Took way too long to get to the action.

The Ugly:
-HATED the kidnapping plot. What the fuck was that?!
-the Nightsisters shouldn’t be gross monsters. I hate that about them in here. They were done much better in different media

Highlights:
-I keep going back and forth over whether or not I love Teniel Djo, but I did love her scenes with Isolder
-namedropping Yoda made me happy.
]]> 35465 The savage Clone Wars have forced theRepublic to the edge of collapse. During the height of the battle, on Jedi Knight escapes the carnage to deliver a message to Yoda on Coruscant. It appears that Dooku wants peace and demands a rendezvous. Chances are slimthat the treacherous Count is sincere but, with a million lives at stake, Yoda has no choice.
The meeting will take place on Djun, a planet steeped in evil. The challenge could not be more difficult. CanYoda win back his once promising pupil from the dark side or will Count Dooku unleash his sinister forces against his former mentor? Either way, Yoda is sure of one thing: This battle will be one of the fiercesthe'll ever face. "From the Paperback edition."]]> 329 Sean Stewart 0345463099 Jon 4 Dooku was fascinating in this. He was almost sympathetic.
The last confrontation between Yoda and Dooku was phenomenal. The fact that it was fought on a spiritual level as well as a physical one was so entertaining. I much prefer this to their on screen meeting in AOTC.

Special Highlight:
Loved the insight into how the other Jedi view Jedi. Calling him a gnome, or a frog, and judging his food. With this, and the way he acts in the final duel, we see Yoda in a very different light. We did also get several scene of him being a great teacher, which were very uplifting.]]> 3.87 2004
author: Sean Stewart
name: Jon
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2004
rating: 4
read at: 2019/12/16
date added: 2019/12/15
shelves:
review:
One of my favorites of the old canon. The thing I find the most interesting about this one is that it shows an entirely different side of the Jedi order. I was very struck by the doubts that many of them had, ranging from in their own ability to war itself. I particularly liked the way that the inner life of the temple was shown, especially the Padawan tournament.
Dooku was fascinating in this. He was almost sympathetic.
The last confrontation between Yoda and Dooku was phenomenal. The fact that it was fought on a spiritual level as well as a physical one was so entertaining. I much prefer this to their on screen meeting in AOTC.

Special Highlight:
Loved the insight into how the other Jedi view Jedi. Calling him a gnome, or a frog, and judging his food. With this, and the way he acts in the final duel, we see Yoda in a very different light. We did also get several scene of him being a great teacher, which were very uplifting.
]]> 320346 Poisoned by centuries of technological excess, the planet Duro is an unlivable hell, long abandoned by its own inhabitants, who dwell above their polluted world in orbital habitats. But there is no place else to channel the flood of refugees fleeing the murderous Yuuzhan Vong. So a deal is struck: In exchange for a new home, the refugees will work to restore the planet to health, under the watchful eye of Leia Organa Solo.
As tempers begin to flare between the Duros and the New Republic, and between groups of refugees, Han Solo, his son, Jacen, and the Ryn called Droma arrive to keep the peace. They are unaware that Leia is on Duro . . . and that Luke, Mara, and Anakin are on their way, searching for a missing Jedi apprentice. And none realize that the Yuuzhan Vong have chosen this embattled planet as the next target in their brutal coreward thrust.
The unrest only strengthens Jacen Solo's growing belief that a true Jedi should not fight, but should lead others to peace through a deeper understanding of the Force. Now, as the fragile stability on Duro threatens to collapse into violence, Jacen Solo must face his greatest dilemma: At what point does the use of power become aggression? Whatever he decides, his next step could tip the galaxy's destiny toward the light or toward darknessowith the life of someone he loves hanging in the balance . . .]]> 384 Kathy Tyers 009941029X Jon 4 What I found fascinating about this one, though, was how topical it was. Anti-immigrant and species pride groups are common throughout here, as a refugee crisis rips across the galaxy. Honestly so eerie, considering this is fiction from quite a few years back.
Also loved the parallels to the current canon, with Jacen cutting himself off from the force like Luke does, and Leia being much more of a secular leader than a Jedi.
All in all, a quick, very rapidly paced Star Wars read.

Highlights:
Loved having a Hutt lead! Very unique
Really enjoyed the scene where leia bonds with jacen over not wanting to be a Jedi.
Han insisting their family get no special treatment, as to not lose favor also jumped out at me.
Personally loved the name dropping of species. Made it feel like it used to, as sappy as that is]]> 3.72 2000
author: Kathy Tyers
name: Jon
average rating: 3.72
book published: 2000
rating: 4
read at: 2019/12/13
date added: 2019/12/14
shelves:
review:
Loved revisiting the old canon. I understand why it was changed, and recognize how messy it was, but it was fun.
What I found fascinating about this one, though, was how topical it was. Anti-immigrant and species pride groups are common throughout here, as a refugee crisis rips across the galaxy. Honestly so eerie, considering this is fiction from quite a few years back.
Also loved the parallels to the current canon, with Jacen cutting himself off from the force like Luke does, and Leia being much more of a secular leader than a Jedi.
All in all, a quick, very rapidly paced Star Wars read.

Highlights:
Loved having a Hutt lead! Very unique
Really enjoyed the scene where leia bonds with jacen over not wanting to be a Jedi.
Han insisting their family get no special treatment, as to not lose favor also jumped out at me.
Personally loved the name dropping of species. Made it feel like it used to, as sappy as that is
]]> 43583571
A not-so-evil queen is terrified of her monstrous stepdaughter and determined to repel this creature and save her kingdom from a world where happy endings aren’t so happily ever after.

From the Hugo, Bram Stoker, Locus, World Fantasy, Nebula award-winning, and New York Times bestselling writer Neil Gaiman (American Gods) comes this graphic novel adaptation by Colleen Doran (Troll Bridge)!]]> 64 Neil Gaiman 1506709796 Jon 5 4.17 2019
author: Neil Gaiman
name: Jon
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2019/10/07
date added: 2019/12/07
shelves:
review:
A perfect graphic novel adaptation of a truly great short story. The artwork used here really helped create a specific environment for the story to take place, and really added to the experience, rather than simply supplementing it.
]]> 39668120
COLLECTING: DARTH VADER 13-18]]> 176 Charles Soule 1302910566 Jon 4 The action felt broken up well, between big space battles to smaller, intimate swordplay. And the characters were wonderful. Loved the inquisitors, but particularly loved the development of Tarkin as a true foil to Vader.
I found the characterization of Vader interesting, where as he was actively discouraged from hunting Jedi in the old canon to that being his main purpose now. I prefer this one, honestly.
Lastly, the ikotchi Jedi was a terrible person. The ends justify the means logic of his whole plan legitimately made me mad.
Loved the art, but I do miss some of the old comic artists. I wish they would come back, even if just for one-offs.]]> 4.19 2018
author: Charles Soule
name: Jon
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2019/12/06
date added: 2019/12/05
shelves:
review:
Loved it. While I’m not the biggest fan of the new run of comics that Marvel is putting out for Star Wars, I greatly enjoyed this run.
The action felt broken up well, between big space battles to smaller, intimate swordplay. And the characters were wonderful. Loved the inquisitors, but particularly loved the development of Tarkin as a true foil to Vader.
I found the characterization of Vader interesting, where as he was actively discouraged from hunting Jedi in the old canon to that being his main purpose now. I prefer this one, honestly.
Lastly, the ikotchi Jedi was a terrible person. The ends justify the means logic of his whole plan legitimately made me mad.
Loved the art, but I do miss some of the old comic artists. I wish they would come back, even if just for one-offs.
]]> 33427
Collects Star Wars #36-39]]> 96 John Ostrander 1569719853 Jon 4 Loved the campfire storytelling aspect of this book, even though it made it feel very episodic. Which I guess it was, as it was broken into comic issues.
Truly felt like a prequel to the prequels. Lots of name dropping and character appearances, especially with Valorum and Gunray.
Loved the Jedi dynamics throughout, from a younger Plo Koon to the scene with his niece to the comments on Qui Gon’s hygeine. Loved that Qui Gon felt more fleshed our too.
A Wookie Jedi is such a fun addition, so I loved that nod. I also have to say, I really loved the addition of Nute Gunray in this. He was a great comedic relief character.]]> 3.52 2003
author: John Ostrander
name: Jon
average rating: 3.52
book published: 2003
rating: 4
read at: 2019/12/05
date added: 2019/12/05
shelves:
review:
I have to say, I really love the way John Ostrander writes. His voice is so formative for how I view Star Wars, as the comics were really what peaked my interest.
Loved the campfire storytelling aspect of this book, even though it made it feel very episodic. Which I guess it was, as it was broken into comic issues.
Truly felt like a prequel to the prequels. Lots of name dropping and character appearances, especially with Valorum and Gunray.
Loved the Jedi dynamics throughout, from a younger Plo Koon to the scene with his niece to the comments on Qui Gon’s hygeine. Loved that Qui Gon felt more fleshed our too.
A Wookie Jedi is such a fun addition, so I loved that nod. I also have to say, I really loved the addition of Nute Gunray in this. He was a great comedic relief character.
]]> 35605160
COLLECTING: JEDI OF THE REPUBLIC: MACE WINDU #1-5]]> 120 Matt Owens 130290941X Jon 2
Special Shoutout: My favorite moment of the issue was when Prosset Dibs, who will eventually become Tenth Brother, called out Mace Windu by saying he was a general in order to satiate his violent urges, which harkened back to Shatterpoint for me. ]]> 3.05 2018
author: Matt Owens
name: Jon
average rating: 3.05
book published: 2018
rating: 2
read at: 2019/12/02
date added: 2019/12/03
shelves:
review:
While I did enjoy the plot, I found the actual structure of the comic itself to be jarring. This may simply be because I am more used to the Dark Horse comics that got me into Star Wars when I was younger, but I find comics that are dialogue heavy tend to bog me down more than those that focus on the action. The whole thing was very reminiscent of the Republic comic from the Dark Horse days that focused on Mace Windu and a group of Jedi who had decided to schism from the order, right down to the fallen Jedi (who, incidentally, is my favorite part of this issue). I may also be biased because I like that original one better, and had it in the back of my mind the whole time, but I kept comparing it. This is an issue I've had with a few of the one off comics that Marvel has been churning out. The only one I have really loved is Princess Leia, and I've heard that their ongoing Vader run is great, so I will try not to judge them based off this.

Special Shoutout: My favorite moment of the issue was when Prosset Dibs, who will eventually become Tenth Brother, called out Mace Windu by saying he was a general in order to satiate his violent urges, which harkened back to Shatterpoint for me.
]]> 359884 112 Kevin J. Anderson 1569715351 Jon 4 Love that he faded into the force like a true Jedi master. That was really a nice touch.
Loved the inclusion of Sylvar, and her Catar plots. The blood hunt with Tott and her final moments with Ulic were both highlights.
All in all a great summary to the original Kotor!]]> 4.01 2000
author: Kevin J. Anderson
name: Jon
average rating: 4.01
book published: 2000
rating: 4
read at: 2019/12/02
date added: 2019/12/02
shelves:
review:
Loved it. The comic version of Knights of the Old Republic has been a favorite for years, and Nomi Sunrider and Ulic Qel Droma have been favorite characters for a long time. This story would make a great tv miniseries, maybe even an animated Jedi show focusing on the old republic?
Love that he faded into the force like a true Jedi master. That was really a nice touch.
Loved the inclusion of Sylvar, and her Catar plots. The blood hunt with Tott and her final moments with Ulic were both highlights.
All in all a great summary to the original Kotor!
]]> 44601777
Curious about her origins and in search of long-lost Celtic relatives, Isabellae travels to Ireland. But when the ancient druids of the Emerald Isle make a deal with the monstrous Formorian gods, Isabellae finds herself battling in a war for control with her English and Irish allies!

From the innovative minds of Spanish creators Raule and Gabor, Dark Horse Books is excited to present Isabellae Volume 2 , which collects the final three volumes of the original French series, available in English for the first time.

Collects French albums 4-6.]]> 152 Raule 1506712754 Jon 3 While I found the idea of the army of monster gods and then army of angels very interesting (sort of this idea that all the religions were simultaneously right and wrong), I found it kind of redundant.
I think I really enjoyed it, but generally preferred the earlier volume more. ]]> 3.30 2019
author: Raule
name: Jon
average rating: 3.30
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2019/11/25
date added: 2019/11/24
shelves:
review:
Really loved the general framing of it, with the general tone feeling very much like the second season of a tv show, almost more episodic in nature. This was complimented by the very tv season finale freeze frame of a final panel (which I actually really loved)
While I found the idea of the army of monster gods and then army of angels very interesting (sort of this idea that all the religions were simultaneously right and wrong), I found it kind of redundant.
I think I really enjoyed it, but generally preferred the earlier volume more.
]]> 2822484 86 Bernard Evslin 079100340X Jon 3 I did love the character of Finn McCool though, and the very fairytale sidekicks and rhyme spells were fun, at the very least. I just wanted more of Drabne herself!]]> 4.25 1989
author: Bernard Evslin
name: Jon
average rating: 4.25
book published: 1989
rating: 3
read at: 2019/11/19
date added: 2019/11/18
shelves:
review:
My first of the non-Greek Evslin books. Sadly, not as focused on the monster as I wanted it to be. This felt rushed, and more like a fairy tale than a fleshed our story (like his Medusa, for instance.
I did love the character of Finn McCool though, and the very fairytale sidekicks and rhyme spells were fun, at the very least. I just wanted more of Drabne herself!
]]> 37903770 This is an alternate cover edition for ISBN 9780393356182

Neil Gaiman, long inspired by ancient mythology in creating the fantastical realms of his fiction, presents a bravura rendition of the Norse gods and their world from their origin though their upheaval in Ragnarok.

In Norse Mythology, Gaiman stays true to the myths in envisioning the major Norse pantheon: Odin, the highest of the high, wise, daring, and cunning; Thor, Odin’s son, incredibly strong yet not the wisest of gods; and Loki—son of a giant—blood brother to Odin and a trickster and unsurpassable manipulator.

Gaiman fashions these primeval stories into a novelistic arc that begins with the genesis of the legendary nine worlds and delves into the exploits of deities, dwarfs, and giants. Through Gaiman’s deft and witty prose, these gods emerge with their fiercely competitive natures, their susceptibility to being duped and to duping others, and their tendency to let passion ignite their actions, making these long-ago myths breathe pungent life again.]]> 301 Neil Gaiman Jon 5
They should really make an anthology series of the Norse myths. Only prerequisite is Tilda Swinton as Loki.

Love the myths that don’t get as much “play�� such as Thor dressing in drag as Freya or when Loki gets drunk and angers the gods.

His ability to go from epic to conversational daily makes this such a fun red (I.e. ‘I have you so much��)

Slepnir was Loki’s child too? Damn.

I find it interesting that so many of their myths involve treachery/tricks

Did not realize Ymir was an enby!

Interesting their first people where A+E too.

Fenrir and Tyr’s story made me deeply sad. So well written.

Fave Quote: You day you have not seen these things, but you have.



]]> 4.11 2017
author: Neil Gaiman
name: Jon
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2017
rating: 5
read at: 2019/11/07
date added: 2019/11/07
shelves:
review:
Love that this is basically Gaiman writing Wikipedia articles. I really love that a lot.

They should really make an anthology series of the Norse myths. Only prerequisite is Tilda Swinton as Loki.

Love the myths that don’t get as much “play�� such as Thor dressing in drag as Freya or when Loki gets drunk and angers the gods.

His ability to go from epic to conversational daily makes this such a fun red (I.e. ‘I have you so much��)

Slepnir was Loki’s child too? Damn.

I find it interesting that so many of their myths involve treachery/tricks

Did not realize Ymir was an enby!

Interesting their first people where A+E too.

Fenrir and Tyr’s story made me deeply sad. So well written.

Fave Quote: You day you have not seen these things, but you have.




]]> 2900037 192 Bill Eppridge 0810971224 Jon 5
The glimpse into the campaign trail is super interesting, given the technological differences back then. I couldn’t stop taking notes while reading, the images where heartstopping. He really had the momentum to change the country and was cut short.

The biggest thought that kept surfacing for me was both how different things are now (a presidential campaign could not ever accrue speeding tickets on the trail, and can you imagine the criticism if a candidate signed autographs and crowd-surfed?!) but also how similar. References to gun control, shootings, and international struggle permeate the scenes of RFK on the road.

What a perfect photo essay.]]> 4.58 2008
author: Bill Eppridge
name: Jon
average rating: 4.58
book published: 2008
rating: 5
read at: 2019/10/21
date added: 2019/10/21
shelves:
review:
One thing that I have a huge weakness for is coffee table books. For some reason, I love this oversized, picture heavy format, and rabidly collect them. A long time ago, when still in high school, I begged for this book from my parents as a gift, and I’m very sad I only got to reading it now, much later.

The glimpse into the campaign trail is super interesting, given the technological differences back then. I couldn’t stop taking notes while reading, the images where heartstopping. He really had the momentum to change the country and was cut short.

The biggest thought that kept surfacing for me was both how different things are now (a presidential campaign could not ever accrue speeding tickets on the trail, and can you imagine the criticism if a candidate signed autographs and crowd-surfed?!) but also how similar. References to gun control, shootings, and international struggle permeate the scenes of RFK on the road.

What a perfect photo essay.
]]> 43570546
Blending letters, diaries, and memoirs, Sigrid Nunez reconstructs Mitz's life, painting it against the backdrop of Bloomsbury in its twilight years. Tender, affectionate, and filled with humor, this novel offers a striking look at lives shadowed by war, death, and mental illness, as well as the happiness and productivity the creature inspired. A new edition, now with an afterword by Peter Cameron.]]> 172 Sigrid Nunez 1593765827 Jon 5 Shoutouts:
-the fact that this book gave ample screen time to Leonard, who is often pushed to the side in stories about Virginia.
-the chapter in Nazi germany was legitimately stressful to read.
-Lytton!
-Loved the references to all their works.
-Mitz as a character is one of the most fun reading experiences I’ve had.

This will go down with Sudden Death as an impulse purchase that lives on as a favorite.]]> 3.99 1998
author: Sigrid Nunez
name: Jon
average rating: 3.99
book published: 1998
rating: 5
read at: 2019/10/21
date added: 2019/10/21
shelves:
review:
Read in three sittings. What a book! I loved it. Really happy that I impulse bought this one night in NYC. To see the world of the Woolfs told this way was very interesting.
Shoutouts:
-the fact that this book gave ample screen time to Leonard, who is often pushed to the side in stories about Virginia.
-the chapter in Nazi germany was legitimately stressful to read.
-Lytton!
-Loved the references to all their works.
-Mitz as a character is one of the most fun reading experiences I’ve had.

This will go down with Sudden Death as an impulse purchase that lives on as a favorite.
]]> 35458733 When newly widowed Elsie is sent to see out her pregnancy at her late husband's crumbling country estate, The Bridge, what greets her is far from the life of wealth and privilege she was expecting . . .

When Elsie married handsome young heir Rupert Bainbridge, she believed she was destined for a life of luxury. But with her husband dead just weeks after their marriage, her new servants resentful, and the local villagers actively hostile, Elsie has only her husband's awkward cousin for company. Or so she thinks. Inside her new home lies a locked door, beyond which is a painted wooden figure —a silent companion ��-that bears a striking resemblance to Elsie herself. The residents of The Bridge are terrified of the figure, but Elsie tries to shrug this off as simple superstition--that is, until she notices the figure's eyes following her.

A Victorian ghost story that evokes a most unsettling kind of fear, this is a tale that creeps its way through the consciousness in ways you least expect--much like the silent companions themselves.]]> 305 Laura Purcell 014313163X Jon 4 I loved the conceit of the companions, and the broken up, journal-esque format also made this feel like a fast read.
All in all, exactly what I was looking for in an early October spooky read.
Special Shoutout to Sarah, my favorite character by FAR.]]> 3.86 2017
author: Laura Purcell
name: Jon
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2019/10/08
date added: 2019/10/10
shelves:
review:
It's been a long time since I read an entire novel in one sitting, but this book drew me in and wouldn't let go. While it hit all the traditional points of a horror movie/story, I was glued to the page. The author is particularly skilled at the cliffhanger, as there were a few times I almost ripped the page flipping to see what came next.
I loved the conceit of the companions, and the broken up, journal-esque format also made this feel like a fast read.
All in all, exactly what I was looking for in an early October spooky read.
Special Shoutout to Sarah, my favorite character by FAR.
]]> 48037
But as Carmilla becomes increasingly strange and volatile, prone to eerie nocturnal wanderings, Laura finds herself tormented by nightmares and growing weaker by the day�� Pre-dating Dracula by twenty-six years, Carmilla is the original vampire story, steeped in sexual tension and gothic romance.]]> 108 J. Sheridan Le Fanu 0809510839 Jon 5 There is something to be said for how over the top these classical horrors are. I would love to see this adapted for screen. It stands up there with Dracula for me as a truly great vampire story.]]> 3.88 1872
author: J. Sheridan Le Fanu
name: Jon
average rating: 3.88
book published: 1872
rating: 5
read at: 2019/10/06
date added: 2019/10/06
shelves:
review:
Loved it loved it loved it. As a huge fan of gothic tales, this novella really had me from the start. It combined all my favorite things: horror, costume dramas, and queer themes. I found myself hoping for a Thelma and Louise style ending, even though that was clearly not possible.
There is something to be said for how over the top these classical horrors are. I would love to see this adapted for screen. It stands up there with Dracula for me as a truly great vampire story.
]]> 42975172 The Handmaid's Tale, readers had no way of telling what lay ahead for her--freedom, prison or death.

With The Testaments, the wait is over.

Margaret Atwood's sequel picks up the story more than fifteen years after Offred stepped into the unknown, with the explosive testaments of three female narrators from Gilead.

In this brilliant sequel to The Handmaid's Tale, acclaimed author Margaret Atwood answers the questions that have tantalized readers for decades.

"Dear Readers: Everything you've ever asked me about Gilead and its inner workings is the inspiration for this book. Well, almost everything! The other inspiration is the world we've been living in." --Margaret Atwood

An alternate cover edition of ISBN 978-0385543781 can be found here.]]> 422 Margaret Atwood Jon 4 My only real critique is how quickly it tied up at the end. It felt imbalanced compared to the massive amount of material in the earlier parts of the novel. I wanted so much more from all these characters. I loved them each, including Lydia. But special shout out to Becca/Aunt Immortelle. What a great and moving character.
I will say that I want to read more of Atwood’s work now that I’ve read this.
Living in the current world, I feel disillusioned by the dystopian stories I used to love, but this was a really well done dip back into that territory.
Special shoutout to the inept male academic at the end. What a glimpse into a culture that may be coming.
Despite all trepidation, I loved this book and would always recommend it. However, given the recent skyrocketing of the original material, it’s interesting to note that this feels like a TV series. Which I love, but find curious. ]]> 4.16 2019
author: Margaret Atwood
name: Jon
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2019/10/01
date added: 2019/10/01
shelves:
review:
While I don’t think this book was necessary, and in fact, really don’t love that it was made, I will say that I thoroughly enjoyed it. I listened to the audiobook, as I loved the cast, and it truly felt like a must-see Netflix or HBO (Hulu?) show. All three did a phenomenal job but I would call out Bryce Dallas Howard as my favorite segment and reader. Life in Gilead is morbidly interesting, after all.
My only real critique is how quickly it tied up at the end. It felt imbalanced compared to the massive amount of material in the earlier parts of the novel. I wanted so much more from all these characters. I loved them each, including Lydia. But special shout out to Becca/Aunt Immortelle. What a great and moving character.
I will say that I want to read more of Atwood’s work now that I’ve read this.
Living in the current world, I feel disillusioned by the dystopian stories I used to love, but this was a really well done dip back into that territory.
Special shoutout to the inept male academic at the end. What a glimpse into a culture that may be coming.
Despite all trepidation, I loved this book and would always recommend it. However, given the recent skyrocketing of the original material, it’s interesting to note that this feels like a TV series. Which I love, but find curious.
]]> 39927096 You are a failed novelist about to turn fifty. A wedding invitation arrives in the mail: your boyfriend of the past nine years now engaged to someone else. You can’t say yes--it would all be too awkward--and you can’t say no--it would look like defeat. On your desk are a series of half-baked literary invitations you’ve received from around the world.

QUESTION: How do you arrange to skip town?

ANSWER: You accept them all.

If you are Arthur Less.

Thus begins an around-the-world-in-eighty-days fantasia that will take Arthur Less to Mexico, Italy, Germany, Morocco, India and Japan and put thousands of miles between him and the problems he refuses to face. What could possibly go wrong?

Well: Arthur will almost fall in love in Paris, almost fall to his death in Berlin, barely escape to a Moroccan ski chalet from a Sahara sandstorm, accidentally book himself as the (only) writer-in-residence at a Christian Retreat Center in Southern India, and arrive in Japan too late for the cherry blossoms. In between: science fiction fans, crazed academics, emergency rooms, starlets, doctors, exes and, on a desert island in the Arabian Sea, the last person on Earth he wants to see. Somewhere in there: he will turn fifty. The second phase of life, as he thinks of it, falling behind him like the second phase of a rocket. There will be his first love. And there will be his last.

A love story, a satire of the American abroad, a rumination on time and the human heart, by an author The New York Times has hailed as “inspired, lyrical,�� “elegiac,�� “ingenious,�� as well as “too sappy by half,�� Less shows a writer at the peak of his talents raising the curtain on our shared human comedy.]]> 273 Andrew Sean Greer Jon 5 I called the twist from an early point, but I didn’t care. This felt like a refreshing take on the romance/dramedy genre and I have never cared as much for a protagonist as I did for Arthur.
If I could live my life with this voice as my internal monologue, I would be so happy.]]> 3.61 2017
author: Andrew Sean Greer
name: Jon
average rating: 3.61
book published: 2017
rating: 5
read at: 2019/09/30
date added: 2019/09/29
shelves:
review:
It took me a long time to read, as I kept getting distracted, but this Book was perfection. I loved Arthur Less, and saw a lot of myself in him, which also brought me a lot of joy while reading this. As someone who basks in melancholy a lot, I also felt this book deeply.
I called the twist from an early point, but I didn’t care. This felt like a refreshing take on the romance/dramedy genre and I have never cared as much for a protagonist as I did for Arthur.
If I could live my life with this voice as my internal monologue, I would be so happy.
]]> 334815 96 Chris Warner 156971648X Jon 4
Loved:
-how cinematic it felt
-evil Leia is a mood
-“Coming to see you I am�� what a fucking move!

Liked:
-the personification of Han
-the moment right after the failed explosion. So dumbstruck.

Not a Fan:
-violent C3po is silly
-the bit with Han not seeing Ben was old FAST

All in all loved it a lot and would love to see an animated version of it.]]> 4.00 2002
author: Chris Warner
name: Jon
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2002
rating: 4
read at: 2019/09/25
date added: 2019/09/25
shelves:
review:
Ok, it was super silly but I loved it. It reminded me of the old school “What If?�� Marvel titles. The Art was phenomenal and the story was cheesy, but fun.

Loved:
-how cinematic it felt
-evil Leia is a mood
-“Coming to see you I am�� what a fucking move!

Liked:
-the personification of Han
-the moment right after the failed explosion. So dumbstruck.

Not a Fan:
-violent C3po is silly
-the bit with Han not seeing Ben was old FAST

All in all loved it a lot and would love to see an animated version of it.
]]> 3232720 Luis Valdez Jon 3 3.87 2008
author: Luis Valdez
name: Jon
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2008
rating: 3
read at: 2019/09/24
date added: 2019/09/24
shelves:
review:
Another quick read from the drama anthology I have unearthed from my bags of books. What a fun, and sadly still poignant, read. I chuckled quite a few times, even if, at times, it felt like a very long sketch.
]]> 791479 128 Aphra Behn 1854591789 Jon 2 That being said, I did genuinely enjoy what happens with Hellena and Willmore, who is so unlikeable that he is likable.
Glad I read it, as I’ve been itching for some older plays, but not a favorite.]]> 3.30 1681
author: Aphra Behn
name: Jon
average rating: 3.30
book published: 1681
rating: 2
read at: 2019/09/24
date added: 2019/09/23
shelves:
review:
I will be honest, I didn’t love it. The characters were fun, and I really think I would’ve enjoyed it more if I saw it performed, rather than simply read it, but I do not enjoy the huge amounts of rape and innuendo here. Played like a shoddy bodice-ripper at times, and I got so so SO tired of characters being in disguise.
That being said, I did genuinely enjoy what happens with Hellena and Willmore, who is so unlikeable that he is likable.
Glad I read it, as I’ve been itching for some older plays, but not a favorite.
]]> 37526
The authoritative edition of Henry V from The Folger Shakespeare Library, the trusted and widely used Shakespeare series for students and general readers, includes:

-Freshly edited text based on the best early printed version of the play

-Full explanatory notes conveniently placed on pages facing the text of the play

-Scene-by-scene plot summaries

-A key to the play’s famous lines and phrases

-An introduction to reading Shakespeare’s language

-An essay by a leading Shakespeare scholar providing a modern perspective on the play

-Fresh images from the Folger Shakespeare Library’s vast holdings of rare books

-An annotated guide to further reading]]> 294 William Shakespeare 0743484878 Jon 4
-The tennis ball scene!! Loved it.
-Love act two prologue so much
-Pistol Is a GANGSTA
-There’s a lack of dialogue and witty banter that I normally love.
-Loved the act 3 prologue
-Damn. “Once more....�� really is one of the best speeches he wrote.
-Loving the “dialects�� in the battle. Such a fun experience.
-I genuinely loved act 3
-Suffolk and York Death Scene is pretty gay
-Hate hate hate the last act. It feels like shoehorned in and, while I love the dialogue, kind of unnecessary.

Biggest take away is that this play, more than many others, has given me a much larger appreciation of The Chorus, who I don’t always love when reading the plays. ]]> 3.84 1599
author: William Shakespeare
name: Jon
average rating: 3.84
book published: 1599
rating: 4
read at: 2019/09/24
date added: 2019/09/23
shelves:
review:
Working my way through some Shakespeare that I’m not familiar with, and figured I’d try a history again. Rather than share all my thoughts, I’ll do a short bullet point of what I jotted down while reading:

-The tennis ball scene!! Loved it.
-Love act two prologue so much
-Pistol Is a GANGSTA
-There’s a lack of dialogue and witty banter that I normally love.
-Loved the act 3 prologue
-Damn. “Once more....�� really is one of the best speeches he wrote.
-Loving the “dialects�� in the battle. Such a fun experience.
-I genuinely loved act 3
-Suffolk and York Death Scene is pretty gay
-Hate hate hate the last act. It feels like shoehorned in and, while I love the dialogue, kind of unnecessary.

Biggest take away is that this play, more than many others, has given me a much larger appreciation of The Chorus, who I don’t always love when reading the plays.
]]> 36913852 From. New York Times best-selling author Neil Gaiman, Eisner Award-winning artist P. Craig Russell, Scott Hampton, and Paul Chadwick comes a fantasy graphic novel anthology of essential Gaiman stories..

Two stories and two poems. All wondrous and imaginative about the tales we tell and experience. Where the incarnations of the months of the year sit around a campfire sharing stories, where an older college professor recounts a Narnian childhood, where the apocalypse unfolds, and where the importance of generational storytelling is seen through the Goldilocks fairytale. These four comic adaptations have something for everyone and are a must for Gaiman fans!

From Hugo, Eisner, Newbery, Harvey, Bram Stoker, Locus, World Fantasy, and Nebula Award-winning author Neil Gaiman, P. Craig Russell (The Sandman, The Giver), Scott Hampton (American Gods), and Paul Chadwick (Concrete) comes a graphic novel not to be missed!]]> 77 Neil Gaiman 1506705111 Jon 4 All in all this was a great way to kill an hour or two and I am glad I randomly grabbed this off a shelf!]]> 3.45 2019
author: Neil Gaiman
name: Jon
average rating: 3.45
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2019/09/16
date added: 2019/09/16
shelves:
review:
I don’t know what brought me to buy this book without checking it out first, but what a happy surprise. I knew it contained one of my favorite Gaiman stories (the titular one), but was happy to discover it also featured my favorite poem of his, The Day the Saucers Came. What I didn’t expect to find was a new favorite! October in the Chair was totally new to me, having never encountered it before, and I have to say that the whole concept was amazing. I loved the idea of the months gathering like this, but I also loved the execution, particularly the art, which was amazing.
All in all this was a great way to kill an hour or two and I am glad I randomly grabbed this off a shelf!
]]> 43334159
From the brilliant minds of Raule and Gabor, Dark Horse Books is thrilled to present the first volume of Isabellae, collecting the first three French volumes in one compendium and offered in English print-format for the first time.

Collects French volumes 1-3]]> 152 Raule 1506712746 Jon 4 The main thing that I took away from it was the gathering of the team for the final episode (coming in November in TPB form, so I will not so patiently wait). I'm a sucker for a good action team, so the gathering of a warrior (with a sad back story, and who can play a mean musical instrument), a sexy rogue, a failed monk teenager (who was once a zombie?) and a MONKEY has me very excited to see what comes next.
]]> 3.72
author: Raule
name: Jon
average rating: 3.72
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2019/09/09
date added: 2019/09/09
shelves:
review:
This surprised me, to be honest. I wasn't sure if I would be into it or not, based on how it sort of sounded like a MadLib when described to me. Half-Celt girl raised by her samurai father, hunting her witch sister across 1100s Japan, with ZOMBIES? I will admit to rolling my eyes. And I'm so mad I did. This book was actually super fun, and I feel bad for thinking anything else. It reminded me of three things that I really enjoy on their own, namely Brave, Samurai Jack, and the Dark Times Star Wars comic.
The main thing that I took away from it was the gathering of the team for the final episode (coming in November in TPB form, so I will not so patiently wait). I'm a sucker for a good action team, so the gathering of a warrior (with a sad back story, and who can play a mean musical instrument), a sexy rogue, a failed monk teenager (who was once a zombie?) and a MONKEY has me very excited to see what comes next.

]]> 37398 229 Toni Morrison 0452269652 Jon 4 The characters and scenarios created here were some of the most beautiful, and real feeling, characters I'd encountered in a long time.
The only "issue" I had was totally on my end. Morrison's wonderful voice drew me in and I would find myself zoning out, as though listening to music, only to have to rewind and re-listen to the section I'd just heard.]]> 3.90 1992
author: Toni Morrison
name: Jon
average rating: 3.90
book published: 1992
rating: 4
read at: 2019/08/19
date added: 2019/08/19
shelves:
review:
I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Toni Morrison herself, which was a really amazing experience. Hearing the words in the author's own voice really drives it home even more, and allows you to appreciate the effort and art put into the words on a whole new level.
The characters and scenarios created here were some of the most beautiful, and real feeling, characters I'd encountered in a long time.
The only "issue" I had was totally on my end. Morrison's wonderful voice drew me in and I would find myself zoning out, as though listening to music, only to have to rewind and re-listen to the section I'd just heard.
]]> 35613533
Each chapter showcases a treasure trove of artefacts from the British Library and other collections around the world, beside exclusive manuscripts, sketches and illustrations from the Harry Potter archive. There's also a specially commissioned essay for each subject area by an expert, writer or cultural commentator, inspired by the contents of the exhibition �� absorbing, insightful and unexpected contributions from Steve Backshall, the Reverend Richard Coles, Owen Davies, Julia Eccleshare, Roger Highfield, Steve Kloves, Lucy Mangan, Anna Pavord and Tim Peake, who offer a personal perspective on their magical theme.

Readers will be able to pore over ancient spell books, amazing illuminated scrolls that reveal the secret of the Elixir of Life, vials of dragon's blood, mandrake roots, painted centaurs and a genuine witch's broomstick, in a book that shows J.K. Rowling's magical inventions alongside their cultural and historical forebears.

This is the ultimate gift for Harry Potter fans, curious minds, big imaginations, bibliophiles and readers around the world who missed out on the chance to see the exhibition in person.]]> 256 British Library Jon 4
-Loved the dive into potion ingrediants and what they could be, including the look at both dragon's blood and unicorn horns (aka elephant blood and narwhal tusks)
-The Battersea cauldron. So interesting.
- Elizabeth Blackwell is one of the most interesting and heartbreaking stories.
]]> 4.21 2017
author: British Library
name: Jon
average rating: 4.21
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2019/07/31
date added: 2019/08/01
shelves:
review:
First and foremost, I listened to the audiobook, which is probably why I have it rated this high up. The fact that they pulled together all of these interesting historians, artists, curators, and scholars who worked on this exhibition together made this audiobook feel more like an audio-documentary, which I loved. Covering so many different aspects of magic, over the course of history, I really enjoyed this. Some of my favorites moments and notes are below:

-Loved the dive into potion ingrediants and what they could be, including the look at both dragon's blood and unicorn horns (aka elephant blood and narwhal tusks)
-The Battersea cauldron. So interesting.
- Elizabeth Blackwell is one of the most interesting and heartbreaking stories.

]]> 43106805
Writer Kyle Starks (Rick and Morty, Rock Candy Mountain) and artist Chris Schweizer (The Creeps, Unbeatable Squirrel Girl) bring you the face melting experience of a lifetime with Mars Attacks for the first time at Dynamite!]]> 132 Kyle Starks 1524109940 Jon 4
Would highly recommend! ]]> 4.05 2019
author: Kyle Starks
name: Jon
average rating: 4.05
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2019/01/01
date added: 2019/07/24
shelves:
review:
While I'd originally read the individual comics as they came out, I was lucky enough to supplement that with the full thing. Originally brought to my attention because I follow the (amazing) illustrator on social media, I am so glad that I found this run of comics. Such a breath of fresh air, and really a fun, spooky but tongue in cheek sci-fi read for the summer.

Would highly recommend!
]]> 6695661 202 Marv Wolfman 0785137343 Jon 4
That being said, I really enjoyed both the plot and the themes of this run. Needing to partner with your enemy is one of the oldest tropes in the book, and yet I loved them bargaining with Galactus. Sphinx was also an interesting character, and I loved the inclusion of Nova, Xandar, and the general world building that took place.

The best part of this, however, was Johnny Storm. Oftentimes, he gets relegated to comic relief or sidekick, and that was the central piece of his plot here. Wanting to find himself as a separate entity from the group eventually made him a stronger member of the group.

I’d love to see this be the plot they choose to introduce them to the MCU, but in general, I’m very happy that I read this, as it truly changed my mind about Johnny as a character.]]> 3.69 2009
author: Marv Wolfman
name: Jon
average rating: 3.69
book published: 2009
rating: 4
read at: 2019/07/20
date added: 2019/07/19
shelves:
review:
As a life long fan of the Fantastic Four, I felt like I HAD to read some of their older adventures. As someone who came to comics with Star Wars, and then worked my way into newer series, I had very little experience with classic works, and all I can really say is WOW. The story is amazing, and the dialogue is TERRIBLE. Characters feel the need to explain and describe everything they are doing and honestly sound like bad LARPers most of the time.

That being said, I really enjoyed both the plot and the themes of this run. Needing to partner with your enemy is one of the oldest tropes in the book, and yet I loved them bargaining with Galactus. Sphinx was also an interesting character, and I loved the inclusion of Nova, Xandar, and the general world building that took place.

The best part of this, however, was Johnny Storm. Oftentimes, he gets relegated to comic relief or sidekick, and that was the central piece of his plot here. Wanting to find himself as a separate entity from the group eventually made him a stronger member of the group.

I’d love to see this be the plot they choose to introduce them to the MCU, but in general, I’m very happy that I read this, as it truly changed my mind about Johnny as a character.
]]> 35691243
Written and illustrated by comics luminary and legend, Frank Miller (Sin City, The Dark Knight, 300), and colored by Alex Sinclair (Batman: The Dark Knight III: The Master Race), this companion to Miller's epic masterpiece, 300, brings the historical story of Xerxes to the graphic novel audience with grit and visual style!

The ongoing Greek rebellion against Persian tyranny reaches a turning point after the destruction of the city of Sardis and the later battle of Marathon: on a military campaign to vanquish the city of Athens and silence the Greeks once and for all, Xerxes, Persian Prince, watches as his father, King Darius, falls in battle . . . The mantle of king is passed and while his newly-inherited fleet retreats toward home, Xerxes' hatred is cemented toward Athens--and his incentive to build the Persian empire is fueled. Xerxes becomes the king of all countries--the king of Persia, ruler of Zion, and Pharoah of Egypt--and his empire is unlike any the world has ever seen, until . . . The mantle is again passed, the god king dies and Darius III continues as the king of all. But then, from the west, a tiger force strikes in Asia Minor and is on a course for collision with Persian forces. This will be the beginning of the end for Persia and the launch of Alexander the Great's rise to power!

Collects: Xerxes: The Fall of the House of Darius and the Rise of Alexander #1-5]]> 112 Frank Miller 150670882X Jon 4
The Good:
- Loved the art. It leaned a little more out there and alien, which I thought really worked well.
-The flow of action felt really cool. The battle scenes, particularly the first one, where we see what set Xerxes in motion, was a very exciting read.
-The glimpses of the different rulers. Particularly Esther? I was NOT expecting that at all, but I loved it.

The Less Than Good:
-The overall pacing of the book was janky, feeling like it was hurtling too fast and then suddenly languishing in a battle or a discussion.

Overall, though, a very fun summer read.]]> 2.51 2019
author: Frank Miller
name: Jon
average rating: 2.51
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2019/07/01
date added: 2019/07/03
shelves:
review:
To be honest, I was shocked at how much I enjoyed this. I've loved Miller's art and earlier comic books (Sin City, the original 300, Daredevil/Elektra) since I was a kid, but recently he has taken a slightly problematic turn towards being daring for the sake of being daring, even when the plot doesn't call for it. However, I had to read this, as I loved the original. I'm so glad I did, it was a super fun, if too quick, read.

The Good:
- Loved the art. It leaned a little more out there and alien, which I thought really worked well.
-The flow of action felt really cool. The battle scenes, particularly the first one, where we see what set Xerxes in motion, was a very exciting read.
-The glimpses of the different rulers. Particularly Esther? I was NOT expecting that at all, but I loved it.

The Less Than Good:
-The overall pacing of the book was janky, feeling like it was hurtling too fast and then suddenly languishing in a battle or a discussion.

Overall, though, a very fun summer read.
]]> 19765411 456 Randy Stradley 1616552522 Jon 4 4.09 2014
author: Randy Stradley
name: Jon
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2019/06/29
date added: 2019/06/29
shelves:
review:
Loved it. I really maintain that the Dass Jennir needs to be adapted to the screen, in some way, as he's such a nuanced character. However, as much as I loved him in this finale to the Dark Times comic series, the real standout story was the one featuring K'Kruhk, who has always been one of my favorite characters. His issue, featuring the relocation of padawans with fan favorite Master Zao, was also incredibly timely, given that it featured refugees. The way they were treated was horrific, and really sent a chill down my spine, considering everything going on in the US right now. Never thought a Star Wars comic from almost a decade ago would resonate with the modern politcal climate as much as it did, but I guess that's part of the joy of Star Wars, it always finds a way to be relevant.
]]> 370964 66 Noël Coward 0573011745 Jon 3 Special shoutout to just how ridiculous Judith really is. This role is dying to be played by a drag queen. ]]> 3.69 1925
author: Noël Coward
name: Jon
average rating: 3.69
book published: 1925
rating: 3
read at: 2019/06/16
date added: 2019/06/16
shelves:
review:
This was the only play in my collection of Coward that I hadn’t read, so I decided Now was as good a time as any! While it was not nearly my favorite (that will ALWAYS be Easy Virtue) this was a fun, if scattered, read. I found the family to be awful, which I assume is the point, but I truly loved all the guests, and the second and third acts really made me want to see this staged.
Special shoutout to just how ridiculous Judith really is. This role is dying to be played by a drag queen.
]]> 34532
Where is the big jolly fat man? Why is Death creeping down chimneys and trying to say Ho Ho Ho? The darkest night of the year is getting a lot darker...

Susan the gothic governess has got to sort it out by morning, otherwise there won't be a morning. Ever again...

The 20th Discworld novel is a festive feast of darkness and Death (but with jolly robins and tinsel too).

As they say: "You'd better watch out..."]]> 448 Terry Pratchett 0552154288 Jon 4
For me, however, the biggest thing that struck me about this book was how funny it was. Not just in the the way the jokes were written, but also with throwaway lines and one-offs. Every single line was there for an express purpose, and I haven't devoured a book like this in a long time, pouring over every little nuance and sentence. So refreshing, and just fun.

Also, shoutout to Death, my all time favorite character here.]]> 4.25 1996
author: Terry Pratchett
name: Jon
average rating: 4.25
book published: 1996
rating: 4
read at: 2019/05/23
date added: 2019/05/29
shelves:
review:
Having never read a Pratchett before, I reached out to ask which I should start with and this was the one that was suggested. I am so glad it was! As a sucker for holiday stories in general, this was a really great palate cleanser from the more serious/drab books I'm reading at the moment. All of the characters were insanely well fleshed out, and instantly felt like they belonged there, no "origin story" needed.

For me, however, the biggest thing that struck me about this book was how funny it was. Not just in the the way the jokes were written, but also with throwaway lines and one-offs. Every single line was there for an express purpose, and I haven't devoured a book like this in a long time, pouring over every little nuance and sentence. So refreshing, and just fun.

Also, shoutout to Death, my all time favorite character here.
]]> 13547234
In the ancient town of Ephesus, Mary lives alone, years after her son's crucifixion. She has no interest in collaborating with the authors of the Gospel—her keepers, who provide her with food and shelter and visit her regularly. She does not agree that her son is the Son of God; nor that his death was “worth it;�� nor that the “group of misfits he gathered around him, men who could not look a woman in the eye,�� were holy disciples. Mary judges herself ruthlessly (she did not stay at the foot of the Cross until her son died—she fled, to save herself), and is equally harsh on her judgment of others. This woman who we know from centuries of paintings and scripture as the docile, loving, silent, long-suffering, obedient, worshipful mother of Christ becomes, in Toibin’s searing evocation, a tragic heroine with the relentless eloquence of Electra or Medea or Antigone. This tour de force of imagination and language is a portrait so vivid and convincing that our image of Mary will be forever transformed.]]> 81 Colm Tóibín 1451688385 Jon 3 I both read the text and listened to the audiobook, mainly because I HAD to hear how Meryl sounded. To me, she was almost too fragile, but the softness worked particularly well in the post-Crucifiction moments, highlighting her fear and the fast-paced nature of the whole scenario.
]]> 3.65 2012
author: Colm Tóibín
name: Jon
average rating: 3.65
book published: 2012
rating: 3
read at: 2019/04/23
date added: 2019/04/23
shelves:
review:
This book has been on my list to read for years, so I'm very excited that I finally read it. It really did live up to the hype, but I honestly found the actual language used paling in comparison to the plot and story. It was almost too repetitive and grand? I found it very very interesting that Mary doesn't give a fuck, frankly. She just seems baffled and kind of over the whole situation, annoyed that her life has gotten to this point. I found that the story flourished when touching on things like the Lazarus plot. I also really loved the way she spoke about her son, as though she was more afraid of him/didn't recognize him anymore.
I both read the text and listened to the audiobook, mainly because I HAD to hear how Meryl sounded. To me, she was almost too fragile, but the softness worked particularly well in the post-Crucifiction moments, highlighting her fear and the fast-paced nature of the whole scenario.

]]> 23992465 Experience the Star Wars saga reimagined as an Elizabethan drama penned by William Shakespeare himself, complete with authentic meter and verse, and theatrical monologues and dialogue by everyone from Bail Organa to Count Dooku.Something is rotten in the state of Coruscant! The schemes of Emperor Palpatine come to fruition as Padmé Amidala, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Yoda, and the other Jedi duel against the clone troopers of General Grievious and the nascent Empire.Authentic meter, stage directions, reimagined movie scenes and dialogue, and hidden Easter eggs throughout will entertain and impress fans of Star Wars and Shakespeare alike. Every scene and character from the film appears in the play, along with twenty woodcut-style illustrations that depict an Elizabethan version of the Star Wars galaxy.]]> 169 Ian Doescher 1594748217 Jon 4
In particular, I loved the way they handled R2, with the asides, and also loved that they took the artistic license to expand and add things, such as Anakin wanting to appeal to Obi Wan in the fight.

One thing I didn’t love was how Padme was written. She seemed too flowery, to an unnecessary amount, and I didn’t understand why.

Can’t wait to read the rest of these. Especially Last Jedi and Phantom Menace (aka the two movies everyone ignores)]]> 4.26 2015
author: Ian Doescher
name: Jon
average rating: 4.26
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2019/04/15
date added: 2019/04/15
shelves:
review:
Finally got around to reading some of these, and decided to start with my guilty pleasure Star Wars movie. Full disclosure, I love Revenge of the Sith. This adaptation did nothing but expand that love. It was so fun, and honestly made me look at the film in a new way several times.

In particular, I loved the way they handled R2, with the asides, and also loved that they took the artistic license to expand and add things, such as Anakin wanting to appeal to Obi Wan in the fight.

One thing I didn’t love was how Padme was written. She seemed too flowery, to an unnecessary amount, and I didn’t understand why.

Can’t wait to read the rest of these. Especially Last Jedi and Phantom Menace (aka the two movies everyone ignores)
]]> 38819868
My Sister, the Serial Killer is a blackly comic novel about how blood is thicker - and more difficult to get out of the carpet - than water...]]> 226 Oyinkan Braithwaite 0385544235 Jon 4 Slight spoilers, but Muhtar, and how he was so harsh, was a huge surprise for me when he woke up.
While Korede is great, I really do love Ayoola as a character. She’s the one I’d want to see most of they adapted this.]]> 3.65 2018
author: Oyinkan Braithwaite
name: Jon
average rating: 3.65
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2019/04/10
date added: 2019/04/09
shelves:
review:
After pushing back reading this book for so long, I am so glad I finally pulled the trigger. The fast paced structure made it a really quick and fun read, and it really played cinematically. I can definitely see this getting a mini-series. Even the ending of the book felt like a Netflix Original Ending, but I think that owes more to the smart way this is crafted. I can’t stress how much I loved this.
Slight spoilers, but Muhtar, and how he was so harsh, was a huge surprise for me when he woke up.
While Korede is great, I really do love Ayoola as a character. She’s the one I’d want to see most of they adapted this.
]]> 30145085
Except get pregnant.

Her whole life, Lucy Knisley wanted to be a mother. But when it was finally the perfect time, conceiving turned out to be harder than anything she’d ever attempted. Fertility problems were followed by miscarriages, and her eventual successful pregnancy plagued by health issues, up to a dramatic, near-death experience during labor and delivery.

This moving, hilarious, and surprisingly informative memoir not only follows Lucy’s personal transition into motherhood but also illustrates the history and science of reproductive health from all angles, including curious facts and inspiring (and notorious) figures in medicine and midwifery. Whether you’ve got kids, want them, or want nothing to do with them, there’s something in this graphic memoir to open your mind and heart.]]> 248 Lucy Knisley Jon 5 But the story is beautiful. As a fan of her work on Instagram, which follows Pal now, this felt like a cool origin story. And the art was phenomenal, even if it took me a second to get used to her work being in color.
A really fun and informative book that I can’t stop recommending.]]> 4.37 2019
author: Lucy Knisley
name: Jon
average rating: 4.37
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2019/03/31
date added: 2019/03/31
shelves:
review:
As a fan for a really long time, I was super excited to pick up this book, even though I admit to being a bit hesitant since I don’t love thinking about birth, pregnancy, etc. This was foolish apprehension. This whole book was an eye-opener. I never knew how much insane bullshit women had to go through, between not being believed when they discuss symptoms to being dismissed and sometimes blatantly lied to. I actually had to put the book down sometimes because I just got MAD at the situation Lucy was put in.
But the story is beautiful. As a fan of her work on Instagram, which follows Pal now, this felt like a cool origin story. And the art was phenomenal, even if it took me a second to get used to her work being in color.
A really fun and informative book that I can’t stop recommending.
]]> 918318 77 Bernard Evslin 1555462537 Jon 4 In conclusion for this series, I love everything about Evslin’s work, and I really would love to see them adapted someday]]> 3.84 1989
author: Bernard Evslin
name: Jon
average rating: 3.84
book published: 1989
rating: 4
read at: 2019/03/17
date added: 2019/03/17
shelves:
review:
The very last of the Greek Evslin books I had to read (I may read his two Celtic ones soon) and one that is really interesting, since it didn’t follow any of the steps the others in this series that I liked did, but I still really enjoyed it. Barely touching upon the actual creature, it instead focuses on the story of young Hercules and Iole, daughter of Iris, the rainbow.
In conclusion for this series, I love everything about Evslin’s work, and I really would love to see them adapted someday
]]> 38496725 "Once upon a time there was and there wasn't a woman who went to the woods."

In this ingenious horror story set in colonial New England, a woman goes missing. Or not missing–perhaps she has fled, abandoned her family. Or perhaps she's been kidnapped, and set loose to wander in the dense woods of the north. Alone and possibly lost, she meets another woman in the forest. Then everything changes.

On a journey that will take her through a wolf-haunted wood, down a deep well, and onto a living ship made of human bones, our heroine is forced to confront her past and may find that the evil she flees has been inside her all along.

Eerie and disturbing, In the House in the Dark of the Woods is a novel of psychological horror and suspense told in Laird Hunt's acclaimed lyrical prose style. It is the story of a bewitching, a betrayal, a master huntress and her quarry. It is a story of anger, of repression, of revenge and redemption. It is a story of a haunting, one that forms the bedrock of American mythology, told in a vivid voice you will never forget.]]> 218 Laird Hunt 0316411051 Jon 0 to-read 3.33 2018
author: Laird Hunt
name: Jon
average rating: 3.33
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2019/03/17
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 84119 The Horse and his Boy is a stirring and dramatic fantasy story that finds a young boy named Shasta on the run from his homeland with the talking horse, Bree. When the pair discover a deadly plot by the Calormen people to conquer the land of Narnia, the race is on to warn the inhabitants of the impending danger and to rescue them all from certain death.]]> 224 C.S. Lewis 0439861365 Jon 3 Secondly, you can tell Lewis and Tolkein were contemproaries, as this book really showed his penchant for description. Granted, I was reading on my iPhone, so the pages were small, but does the description of a pavillion of nobles really have to last two and a half pages? Asking for a friend (me).
While I enjoyed the story, and it really lit that fire in me, making me want to read more Narnia, I do have to say the obvious: This book is racist. The non-Narnians are all portrayed as these awful caricatures of something out of Arabian Nights, and it really left a sour taste in my mouth the entire way through. ]]> 3.92 1954
author: C.S. Lewis
name: Jon
average rating: 3.92
book published: 1954
rating: 3
read at: 2019/03/13
date added: 2019/03/13
shelves:
review:
Ok, first things first, I love the Narnia series, but this book really felt different in tone and everything. Granted, it was one of three Narnia books I'd never read, so who knows how the other half of the series goes? But to me, it was much more "traveling down the road/through the wilderness" than other Narnia books feel to me. It felt more similar to something like Two Towers or Deathly Hallows, where the whole thing is the journey.
Secondly, you can tell Lewis and Tolkein were contemproaries, as this book really showed his penchant for description. Granted, I was reading on my iPhone, so the pages were small, but does the description of a pavillion of nobles really have to last two and a half pages? Asking for a friend (me).
While I enjoyed the story, and it really lit that fire in me, making me want to read more Narnia, I do have to say the obvious: This book is racist. The non-Narnians are all portrayed as these awful caricatures of something out of Arabian Nights, and it really left a sour taste in my mouth the entire way through.
]]> 32714267
A series of linked stories from the points of view of the wives and girlfriends of superheroes, female heroes, and anyone who’s ever been “refrigerated��: comic book women who are killed, raped, brainwashed, driven mad, disabled, or had their powers taken so that a male superhero’s storyline will progress.]]> 160 Catherynne M. Valente 1481459341 Jon 4 This needs to be much more widely read, because it's a point of view EVERYONE needs to look at, especially since it usually gets swept under the rug, or worse, used as "character development" for the main character.
A large part of the fun was also recognizing the characters and plots these stories were based on. While most were pretty obvious, it was still fun to sit there going "Oh, that's Gwen Stacey" "Oh cool, I think this is the Lantern Corp." etc. Of particular interest to me where the stories of Bayou, Julia Ash, and Daisy Green. I can't wait to see these characters storm the screen in the upcoming adaptation, and hope that brings this story to even more people, highlighting this issue in comics.]]> 4.04 2017
author: Catherynne M. Valente
name: Jon
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2019/03/12
date added: 2019/03/13
shelves:
review:
Wow. Just wow. This was so amazing. The concept was one that I think a lot of us are, sadly, familiar with, being the "expendable" women of the comic books we all know and love. This story doesn't focus on resentment, although that is touched upon, and more focuses on the way the stories could be misrepresented to show the male heroes as just that, SUPERheroes.
This needs to be much more widely read, because it's a point of view EVERYONE needs to look at, especially since it usually gets swept under the rug, or worse, used as "character development" for the main character.
A large part of the fun was also recognizing the characters and plots these stories were based on. While most were pretty obvious, it was still fun to sit there going "Oh, that's Gwen Stacey" "Oh cool, I think this is the Lantern Corp." etc. Of particular interest to me where the stories of Bayou, Julia Ash, and Daisy Green. I can't wait to see these characters storm the screen in the upcoming adaptation, and hope that brings this story to even more people, highlighting this issue in comics.
]]> 1577362
This is the exciting saga of Scylla and Charybdis and the mayhem caused when they are brought together in a swirling, narrow passage through which many ships and men must pass. It tells of those who meet their death there and of the perils encountered by the hero Ulysses in that deadly strait.]]> 100 Bernard Evslin 155546257X Jon 5 This book also featured a lot more information and plot. The inclusion of an Egyptian pantheon subplot was incredibly welcome, as was the large range of action, from war, to great hunts, to stunning betrayals. This book was a really great read, and fleshed out some myths that are usually pushed to the side.
Special shout out to the characters of Bast and Buto, the hilarity of the Charybdis plot, and the scenes with Scylla before she was married.]]> 3.95 1988
author: Bernard Evslin
name: Jon
average rating: 3.95
book published: 1988
rating: 5
read at: 2019/03/11
date added: 2019/03/11
shelves:
review:
This may be one of the best Evslin monster books I’ve read! It definitely falls into my wheelhouse, in terms of the ones I lean towards, being that it features great female characters who feel more well rounded than in some of his other works.
This book also featured a lot more information and plot. The inclusion of an Egyptian pantheon subplot was incredibly welcome, as was the large range of action, from war, to great hunts, to stunning betrayals. This book was a really great read, and fleshed out some myths that are usually pushed to the side.
Special shout out to the characters of Bast and Buto, the hilarity of the Charybdis plot, and the scenes with Scylla before she was married.
]]> 33507 269 Jules Verne 076072850X Jon 3
All in all, not the biggest fan of the book, which felt like it was meandering a bit, but I will say I was very intrigued by the descriptions of life under the sea, as well as the extent Verne went to describe Nemo’s technology on the Nautilus.

My biggest take away is that I’m shocked we haven’t seen a modern adaptation, as it touches not only on science and adventure, but also the ideas of social justice and accountability, as seen through Nemo’s eyes.]]> 3.92 1869
author: Jules Verne
name: Jon
average rating: 3.92
book published: 1869
rating: 3
read at: 2019/03/06
date added: 2019/03/06
shelves:
review:
As someone who grew up as a fan of the old Disney movie, as well as the adventure stories from Verne and Doyle, I was shocked I hadn’t read this at some point in my childhood. I’ve also been trying to get into audiobooks more, as a lot of actors I like have started recording them. When I saw this one was narrated by Alex Jennings, I decided to give it a try.

All in all, not the biggest fan of the book, which felt like it was meandering a bit, but I will say I was very intrigued by the descriptions of life under the sea, as well as the extent Verne went to describe Nemo’s technology on the Nautilus.

My biggest take away is that I’m shocked we haven’t seen a modern adaptation, as it touches not only on science and adventure, but also the ideas of social justice and accountability, as seen through Nemo’s eyes.
]]> 2314923 83 Bernard Evslin 1555462588 Jon 4 3.91 1988
author: Bernard Evslin
name: Jon
average rating: 3.91
book published: 1988
rating: 4
read at: 2019/02/28
date added: 2019/02/28
shelves:
review:
One of the Evslin’s that I never read as a kid, this one was a really fun read! I’ve always loved the character of Circe, who is a major antagonist in this story, but also appreciated the Butes myth, one I’d never heard before. Particularly interesting was his escape from the goddesses, which was reminiscent of the Judgement of Paris, with Aphrodite winning again. I also enjoyed that, unlike many of the other monster books, this one featured the creatures prominently. I’ve always found the winged monsters (sirens, harpies, furies, etc) to be of particular interest, so I appreciated that immensely. Lastly, tiny shout out to the scene where Butes meets the gods, as I loved the description of them all shining with their own light, from Apollo’s sunny hue to Hephaestus�� forge-glow to Aphrodite’s warm pink aura. Really cool to imagine how that would look.
]]> 13497 Crows will fight over a dead man's flesh, and kill each other for his eyes.

Bloodthirsty, treacherous and cunning, the Lannisters are in power on the Iron Throne in the name of the boy-king Tommen. The war in the Seven Kingdoms has burned itself out, but in its bitter aftermath new conflicts spark to life.

The Martells of Dorne and the Starks of Winterfell seek vengeance for their dead. Euron Crow's Eye, as black a pirate as ever raised a sail, returns from the smoking ruins of Valyria to claim the Iron Isles. From the icy north, where Others threaten the Wall, apprentice Maester Samwell Tarly brings a mysterious babe in arms to the Citadel.

Against a backdrop of incest and fratricide, alchemy and murder, victory will go to the men and women possessed of the coldest steel and the coldest hearts.]]> 1060 George R.R. Martin 055358202X Jon 4 In particular, I love the Sansa plot in the Vale, which is much better than her televised journey. And shoutout to the Cersei scenes. There is something about the way he writes her that I love deeply.]]> 4.16 2005
author: George R.R. Martin
name: Jon
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2005
rating: 4
read at: 2019/02/22
date added: 2019/02/22
shelves:
review:
My biggest takeaway from this book is just how much the show diverges from the book plot at this point. I personally think it’s ridiculous that the show didn’t fully utilize the Arianne Martell plot, as she is such a strong and interesting character. It also amazes me how little of the magic is used in the tv show. The lush world Martin has made is full of such diverse cultures and supernatural elements that really make the world feel fleshed out.
In particular, I love the Sansa plot in the Vale, which is much better than her televised journey. And shoutout to the Cersei scenes. There is something about the way he writes her that I love deeply.
]]> 2217465 95 Bernard Evslin 1555462367 Jon 3 3.85 1986
author: Bernard Evslin
name: Jon
average rating: 3.85
book published: 1986
rating: 3
read at: 2019/02/16
date added: 2019/02/17
shelves:
review:
Another Evslin! Again, my biggest complaint is that the story focused less on the creature itself and more on the surrounding myths, but the standouts for me were the depictions of Gaia and Rhea and then the inclusion of all the different Polyphemus translations, showing the different ways he could have been attacked.
]]> 3170883 94 Bernard Evslin 1555462464 Jon 3 3.84 1987
author: Bernard Evslin
name: Jon
average rating: 3.84
book published: 1987
rating: 3
read at: 2019/02/13
date added: 2019/02/15
shelves:
review:
Continuing the tradition of reading through Evslin’s mythology books, this one was a solid “maybe�� from me. While happy to see Demeter and Hephaestus, as well as Arachne, the plot felt a bit cramped.
]]> 18430344 344 Randy Stradley 1616552514 Jon 4 The arrival of K’Kruhk made me happy, as he’s one of my favorites, and I love the way they portray how different Jedi react to all of this differently.
Dass Jennir is also a character I think movie goers would love.
The fate of Bomo’s family hits a hard note. The whole slavery plot was tough, from the final fate to Vader’s reminiscing.
Can’t wait to read the second half!]]> 4.08 2013
author: Randy Stradley
name: Jon
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2013
rating: 4
read at: 2019/01/25
date added: 2019/01/24
shelves:
review:
This should be the Star Wars show. The characters are amazingly well fleshed out, the stakes are high, and the diversity of the cast (gender and species) would make a top tier show.
The arrival of K’Kruhk made me happy, as he’s one of my favorites, and I love the way they portray how different Jedi react to all of this differently.
Dass Jennir is also a character I think movie goers would love.
The fate of Bomo’s family hits a hard note. The whole slavery plot was tough, from the final fate to Vader’s reminiscing.
Can’t wait to read the second half!
]]> 18379021 Kill My Mother is a loving homage to the pulp-inspired films and comic strips of his youth. Channeling Eisner's The Spirit, along with the likes of Hammett, Chandler, Cain, John Huston, and Billy Wilder, and spiced with the deft humor for which Feiffer is renowned, Kill My Mother centers on five formidable women from two unrelated families, linked fatefully and fatally by a has-been, hard-drinking private detective.

As our story begins, we meet Annie Hannigan, an out-of-control teenager, jitterbugging in the 1930s. Annie dreams of offing her mother, Elsie, whom she blames for abandoning her for a job soon after her husband, a cop, is shot and killed. Now, employed by her husband’s best friend—an over-the-hill and perpetually soused private eye—Elsie finds herself covering up his missteps as she is drawn into a case of a mysterious client, who leads her into a decade-long drama of deception and dual identities sprawling from the Depression era to World War II Hollywood and the jungles of the South Pacific.

Along with three femme fatales, an obsessed daughter, and a loner heroine, Kill My Mother features a fighter turned tap dancer, a small-time thug who dreams of being a hit man, a name-dropping cab driver, a communist liquor store owner, and a hunky movie star with a mind-boggling secret. Culminating in a U.S.O. tour on a war-torn Pacific island, this disparate band of old enemies congregate to settle scores.

In a drawing style derived from Steve Canyon and The Spirit, Feiffer combines his long-honed skills as cartoonist, playwright, and screenwriter to draw us into this seductively menacing world where streets are black with soot and rain, and base motives and betrayal are served on the rocks in bars unsafe to enter. Bluesy, fast-moving, and funny, Kill My Mother is a trip to Hammett-Chandler-Cain Land: a noir-graphic novel like the movies they don’t make anymore.]]> 150 Jules Feiffer 0871403145 Jon 4 It plays like the anti-sin city. It’s a noir that doesn’t take itself seriously at all.
The big thing that stuck out to me was that the art was so scratchy. It was very pretty, but the hairstyles and squiggly lines made keeping track kind of hard.
I really just loved it, and can’t stop fantasizing about the casts I’d have in mind.]]> 3.15 2014
author: Jules Feiffer
name: Jon
average rating: 3.15
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2019/01/25
date added: 2019/01/24
shelves:
review:
First and foremost, I love love love the female presence in this film and DEMAND someone adapt this for a film.
It plays like the anti-sin city. It’s a noir that doesn’t take itself seriously at all.
The big thing that stuck out to me was that the art was so scratchy. It was very pretty, but the hairstyles and squiggly lines made keeping track kind of hard.
I really just loved it, and can’t stop fantasizing about the casts I’d have in mind.
]]> 36275185
AD 61, Britannia. On the furthest outreaches of the Roman Empire �� at the very edge of the known world �� rebellion is brewing.

The King of the Iceni has died and his widow, Boudica, has tried to claim her rightful throne. For her insolence in defying Rome, the queen has been flogged, her daughters have been raped, and they have been banished from their homeland. But now, Queen Boudica has returned. And this time she has an army.

She will have revenge. She will have blood. She will make Rome quake in fear.]]> 130 Tristan Bernays Jon 4 The language was amazing in here. One of the greatest elements was that every group seemed to speak in a different way, from a more modern speech for the Romans to a fully classical approach for the gods, and something like a mix for the celts.
Characters were strong, and I actually found myself yelling at them from time to time, especially Alonna, although she definitely had a point.
On a whole, the commentary on purity of race and what it means to be from a certain area felt particularly prescient, given the circumstances we are living through today, so I’m glad I found this one when I did.]]> 4.00 2017
author: Tristan Bernays
name: Jon
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2019/01/13
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves:
review:
What really attracted me to this play was an interview where Gina McKee spoke about how these roles (coarse, militaristic, violent, and crude) don’t usually appear for women. The story of Boudicca is one that I sort of knew, but it was nice to get a bit more in-depth with it.
The language was amazing in here. One of the greatest elements was that every group seemed to speak in a different way, from a more modern speech for the Romans to a fully classical approach for the gods, and something like a mix for the celts.
Characters were strong, and I actually found myself yelling at them from time to time, especially Alonna, although she definitely had a point.
On a whole, the commentary on purity of race and what it means to be from a certain area felt particularly prescient, given the circumstances we are living through today, so I’m glad I found this one when I did.
]]> 35543916 262 Neil Gaiman 1506703860 Jon 3 4.17 2018
author: Neil Gaiman
name: Jon
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2018
rating: 3
read at: 2019/01/07
date added: 2019/01/07
shelves:
review:
Firstly, I love American Gods, both the show and the novel, which I first read back in early college I think. The story is just so fascinating and original, it really draws me in. So I was extremely excited to encounter a graphic novel of the work. However, it was not what I expected. More often than not, I felt like the artist was going the safest, least visually dynamic route when showing certain things, primarily the deities. Maybe the flashiness of the tv show has colored this for me, but the art detracted from the adaptation for me here.
]]> 8744427
First published in 1956, Allen Ginsberg's "Howl" is a prophetic masterpiece—an epic raging against dehumanizing society that overcame censorship trials and obscenity charges to become one of the most widely read poems of the century.]]> 223 Allen Ginsberg 0062015176 Jon 3 "...who broke down crying in white gymnasiums naked and trembling before the machinery of other skeletons."

I can't explain why, but I love that line, and I love Howl, and I'd really like to see more artistic renderings of it. ]]> 4.04 1956
author: Allen Ginsberg
name: Jon
average rating: 4.04
book published: 1956
rating: 3
read at: 2019/01/05
date added: 2019/01/05
shelves:
review:
Firstly, I love Howl, and I really wanted to like this book, but the art was really off-putting. I didn't realize that it was a movie though, and I'm genuinely curious about how that looks. I felt bad that I ended up throwing the towel in on this one. That being said, I was able make it to my favorite line, which is all that matters to me. I follow a twitter that tweets lines from Howl continuously, and I always keep an eye out for
"...who broke down crying in white gymnasiums naked and trembling before the machinery of other skeletons."

I can't explain why, but I love that line, and I love Howl, and I'd really like to see more artistic renderings of it.
]]> 42635393 80 Jessie Cave 1848428146 Jon 5 4.35
author: Jessie Cave
name: Jon
average rating: 4.35
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2019/01/03
date added: 2019/01/03
shelves:
review:
What a great way to start 2019. I was initially drawn to grab this book because Jessie Cave has a wonderful instagram presence, and did not expect to find myself late for work because I was reading in my space in the parking garage. I couldn't put it down. It shows how crazy and all over the place life can be, and it also made me feel like I wasn't alone, especially when it comes to being neurotic and sometimes getting in your own way. In short, LOVED IT, and making it a bucket list item to see some of Jessie Cave's work live.
]]> 38376046
Bold and fearless, Nina Markova always dreamed of flying. When the Nazis attack the Soviet Union, she risks everything to join the legendary Night Witches, an all-female night bomber regiment wreaking havoc on the invading Germans. When she is stranded behind enemy lines, Nina becomes the prey of a lethal Nazi murderess known as the Huntress, and only Nina’s bravery and cunning will keep her alive.

Transformed by the horrors he witnessed from Omaha Beach to the Nuremberg Trials, British war correspondent Ian Graham has become a Nazi hunter. Yet one target eludes him: a vicious predator known as the Huntress. To find her, the fierce, disciplined investigator joins forces with the only witness to escape the Huntress alive: the brazen, cocksure Nina. But a shared secret could derail their mission unless Ian and Nina force themselves to confront it.

Growing up in post-war Boston, seventeen-year-old Jordan McBride is determined to become a photographer. When her long-widowed father unexpectedly comes homes with a new fiancée, Jordan is thrilled. But there is something disconcerting about the soft-spoken German widow. Certain that danger is lurking, Jordan begins to delve into her new stepmother’s past—only to discover that there are mysteries buried deep in her family . . . secrets that may threaten all Jordan holds dear.

In this immersive, heart-wrenching story, Kate Quinn illuminates the consequences of war on individual lives, and the price we pay to seek justice and truth.]]> 576 Kate Quinn 0062740385 Jon 0 to-read 4.24 2019
author: Kate Quinn
name: Jon
average rating: 4.24
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2019/01/03
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 40180065 Sounds Like Titanic tells the unforgettable story of how Jessica Chiccehitto Hindman became a fake violinist. Struggling to pay her college tuition, Hindman accepts a dream position in an award-winning ensemble that brings ready money. But the ensemble is a sham. When the group performs, the microphones are off while the music―which sounds suspiciously like the soundtrack to the movie "Titanic"―blares from a hidden CD player. Hindman, who toured with the ensemble and its peculiar composer for four years, writes with unflinching candor and humor about her surreal and quietly devastating odyssey. Sounds Like Titanic is at once a singular coming-of-age memoir about the lengths to which one woman goes to make ends meet and an incisive articulation of modern anxieties about gender, class, and ambition.]]> 250 Jessica Chiccehitto Hindman 0393651649 Jon 0 to-read 3.87 2019
author: Jessica Chiccehitto Hindman
name: Jon
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2019/01/03
shelves: to-read
review:

]]>