2008 is coming quickly to a close, so today I'll post my final book "reviews".
As many of you are well aware, I started this reading journey with a goal of hitting 26 books this year. Well, apparently some healthy competition from Erin combined with the fact that she has been working on lots of school work this year means I've been able to keep ahead.
The last week or so has seen these books added to the list. See if you can tell which one was a stocking stuffer.
Book #55 - The Prodigal God by Timothy Keller
I had to buckle down and stick this one out especially after Keller opens the book with a comment that his interpretation of the parable of the prodigal son is the "true meaning" of it. But I'm glad I stuck it out. Some great thoughts (not new, but refreshing) on the story of the prodigal son and how God is constantly reaching out to not only the lost, but also the modern day "Pharisees", those who have already "found" God but fail to let His lavish grace transform their lives. I also picked up his other book (The Reason for God) at the library, but it will wait for 2009.
Book #56 - The Chris Farley Show by Tom Farley Jr and Tanner Colby
This was like watching a train wreck happen. It's almost captivating as you watch how Chris Farley's life unraveled and how those around him responded, or failed to respond. The book is a collection of other people (friends, family, co-workers, etc) giving glimpses of what they saw happen in Chris over the time they knew him. All in all, if you've ever laughed at the antics of this man (and who honestly hasn't?), I'd recommend this.
Book #57 - The Blade Itself by Marcus Sakey
On the hunt for some new fiction I stumbled across this story of a criminal trying to right his path in life but ends up sucked into a kidnapping plot. It's one of those stories where the good guy makes some poor decisions all while trying to keep himself clean. I found the plot line a little frustrating and non-believable. And the ending is pretty typical "feel good" Hollywood stuff. But I enjoyed it overall so I'll probably give the author another try.
Book #58 - The Bro Code by Barney Stinson with Matt Kuhn
Of course Barney Stinson is only a character on How I Met Your Mother. And yes, this was a stocking stuffer. But I should point out that it didn't end up in my stocking. I had to borrow it. But this show has slowly become a Knott household favorite over the last year, mostly due to Erin's persistence. But it has provided an endless number of inside jokes and non-stop laughs. Just ask Josh (our intern).
2 comments:
Hi. I enjoyed reading your blog and your recommendations. As a small bookstore owner, I have developed an interest in Marcus Sakey's writing career. The Blade Itself was his debut novel, a real page turner. I also enjoyed his second novel, 'At the City's Edge', a more serious take on social issues: war, gangs in Chicago, exploitation of the poor and helpless by the rich and powerful. His latest novel 'Good People' is a fascinating, exciting take on "what would you do if you found $375,000 in seemingly victimless circumstances, especially if your bank account has been depleted by fruitless attempts at invitro fertilization and the ensuing frustration and depression is threatening your marriage?
if you'd like to send me a free copy...
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