Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides

After delving into the world of Cal Stephanides, you will have no doubt as to why this novel is the winner of the Pulitzer Prize. Easily the most well-narrated novel I have ever read, I couldn't help but feel as if the story was being told directly to me as if I was having a conversation with the main character. In the grand scheme of things, the main idea is about a hermaphrodite; the narrator was born Calliope Stephanides, only to become Cal at 16. But as a whole, this novel is so much more. From the sordid history of his family tree, to the riots in Detroit in the 1960s, no question is left unanswered. The stark honesty of Cal's words is what really makes this a page turner. If you have nothing to read at the moment, there is no other book I would recommend more highly than this one.

Freakonomics by Steven Levitt & Stephen Dubner

I may not agree with all of Steven Levitt's theories - but he certainly presents interesting (and rather persuasive) points of view on lots of varied topics. He talks about things that I think we are naturally curious about - crime and drugs... but he compares these topics with seemingly unrelated (and mundane) subjects (ie. teachers and real estate agents). And in the end, he comes to a conclusion that is very well thought out and reasonable (if not a little controversial) - he forces you to see things in a different light.

And even though it was written by an economist (which sounds totally boring), it is actually fascinating. I really enjoyed this book.

The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck

Much better than the last book.  I found this in the office and figured it would be worth reading.  Then I found out Pearl S. Buck had won a Pulitzer Prize for it.  

This was a beautifully written book, very easy to read and heartwarming as well.  I feel like most "classic" novels have to end dramatically or have some sort of tragedy.  If anything, this book had a calming affect on me.  Its about a Chinese family before the revolution and basically about how they go from poverty to riches.  

Excellent easy read.

The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco

If the outside of this book is any indication - this is a really boring book.  All I was looking for was a murder mystery.  Something light.  A quick easy read.  Ok, this sounds good.  Its about a bunch of monks getting killed in a monastery.  I was thinking Redwall meets The Da Vinci Code meets The Agony and the Ecstasy.  Wrong.

Easily one of the most boring books I've ever read.  Instead of reading drama and suspense, I was reading about 14th century Catholic doctrine.  Just to save you the pain of actually reading this book.  The library burns down in the end.  Done.

Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris

For anyone familiar with True Blood on HBO, this book may sound familiar to you. The "Sookie Stackhouse Novels," as they are called, serve as the basis for the

show. Sookie is a telepathic waitress in Bon Temps, Louisiana who falls in love with Bill, a vampire. Chaos ensues as soon as this match is made. Watchers of the show will notice that the book follows the first few episodes of season one almost verbatim, with a few minor characters missing and a little less drama at the end. But whether or not you're a fan of the show, the book does provide solid entertainment and a fast read. If you find yourself wary about having anything to do with ANOTHER vampire series, I'd encourage you to take the risk. Did I mention there is lots of sex? This is no Twilight.

Les Miserables by Victor Hugo

Despite by VERY wordy, Victor Hugo is very wise.  

He knows all about men, Parisians, and so many other insightful musings about life, love, sadness, misery, pain, history, philosophy, society, science, academics, friendship, women, fashion, war, religion, convents, food, parents, furniture arranging and gardening.  In short, he is an expert on everything.  

How very French of him.

Hugo's characterization of the entire strata of French society in the 19th century is truly enlightening, and you catch yourself humming "One Day More" occasionally.  Being a little bit of a French history buff myself, I can say that I have a new appreciation for the French Revolution, Louis-Phillipe and Napoleon.

But after 1200 pages - I'm ready to just sit back and watch the musical. 

I would say this is a must read - but it is not light bedtime reading.  Expect it to take you a LONG TIME.  

Hiatus

It seems book-reading has been put on a slight hiatus. I am actually reading two books at once currently, so should I ever finish them amongst attempting to get a job, I will speedily post!