Artur Pass Pass itibaren Douar Lahmamda, Fas itibaren Douar Lahmamda, Fas

Bill Bryson'd memior of growing up in the 1950's in Des Moine, IA. Funny book filled with antidotes from his childhood. It also gives a great snapshot of what life was like at that time-nuclear testing, polio, elctronics in the home. I liked the reminiscent tone of the book. Even though the books from the perspective of a 60 year old, I could still relate to the excitement of childhood that all kids experience.

This book was my introduction to Sharon Creech. It's simple, but excellent. Actually, it sort of sneaked up on me (much like Bel Canto did)(by the by, doesn't "sneaked" kind of bug you? It's like when you (ha! you) have to use "we" instead of "us" because you know it's right, but then it bothers you because no one uses "we" that way and you fear the other person believes you to be an idiot. Anyway, most dictionaries still label "snuck" as nonstandard, so "sneaked" it must be); I was a little put off by the simple narrative poem structure, but I couldn't long resist the charm of a boy and his dog story. It's a very nice little book, great for reading aloud.

My term paper on this book was originally titled "The Peloponnesian Bore". All joking aside, not exactly a page turner but of obvious historical interest. The core story of Athens' hubris and downfall is definitely resonant with me but the style employed by Thucydides isn't really something that draws me into the story or something I can relate to very well.

This is one of the greatest books ever written.