Where God Was Born by Feiler

I love reading Bruce Feiler's books. I think what he writes about is really important for this world.

This book wasn't my favorite as far as writing goes. He does have a bad habit of claiming to have had impossibly cheesy and perfect conversations, but I find this forgivable. While I enjoyed reading this one the least of his three books I've read, I really wanted to hear what he had to say. I learned a lot about Iraq and Iran, and got a better understanding of biblical history. Also, his thoughts on dialogue between the religions touches me to the core. I wish I could make everyone I know read his thoughts on such matters.

This seems to be a general theme... I don't like the style that is currently considered good nonfiction writing, but I cannot help but read these books for the content.

Quotes I found worthy of noting:

"One recurring problem with religions the grew out of the Hebrew Bible is that each has a tendency to believe its faith is unique, its interpretation of the text absolute, and its relationship with God so exclusive that is has the right to harm those who disagree. The idea that the writers of the Bible were influenced by sources that predate their own suggests the Bible should be seen not as sui generis but as being in dialogue with other texts. And if scriptures can be in dialogue, surely the faiths that grow out of those scruptures can be in dialogue as well."

"The Bible is neither conservative, in that it recommends returning to a better time, nor is it optimistic that a better time lies ahead. The Bible is redemptive, in that it gives humans the ability to save themselves."

"God embraces any people who share his moral vision, no matter their identity."

The Mists of Avalon by Bradley

Reading this book is a very personal and heart-wrenching experience for me. It's my second time through this story, and it was just as powerful as the first time. I see so much of myself and the people in my life in the characters, and I can't help but get really into it. The religious themes mimic my own personal journey on that topic. I cannot even consider this book on a literary level because the content is just too personal.

Seeking Spirits by Jay and Grant

I read this book because Ghost Hunters is "my show" and I've been watching it religously for over a year now. I have to say that it's a lot better than their first book, and considering that they are two plumbers with a reality tv show, the writing isn't all that bad. But, I see this as cheap entertainment and zealous fandom. I wouldn't even bother to compare it to the quality of most books that I read.

And, I must admit... I read it in a few hours in one night, and I slept with a light on. ;)

Anna Karenina by Tolstoy

(finished Oct 2009)

I read this book very quickly, and at the time I felt that I couldn't wait to finish it.  But now having finished it, I miss it very much.  Tolstoy's style is unobtrusive, just the way I like it.  I still don't know how to feel about any of the characters, and I like that very much too.  Also, I have absolutely no desire to get married after reading this book.  Every wife is nagging and annoying, every husband a bit of a sissy.

Angela's Ashes by McCourt

(finished Sept 2009)

I picked this out because I knew it was famous and McCourt just died recently.  This is the first memoir I've read and I think I'll go back to my "no memoirs" policy.  I couldn't sleep until it was finished, not because it was riveting but because I got so upset and anxious from the material.  On the other hand, I know more about Ireland and the Irish, which are subjects of great interest to me.  hrm.

The Botany of Desire by Pollan

(finished Sept 2009)

I keep reading Pollan's books, because I love his choice of material and I want to hear what he has to say.  I just hate the way he says it.  His writing style is so preachy and cliche, he creates the perfect product for yuppie consumption.  Very interesting read though.

The Alchemist by Coelho

(finished August 2009)

I can see why this is such a popular book.  Written like an old legend or something, it's like the literary equivalent of a warm blanket on a cold night.  Very uplifting.

The Lost City of Z by Grann

(finished Aug 2009)

I really enjoyed this one.  The author's writing style didn't get in the way of the great story, although some of the chapters about his personal modern-day experiences were a little lame.  But the last chapters, talking with the archeologist guy, were worth it.

Intro

Seems like this is going to be the easiest way for me to keep track of the books I've read and what I've thought about them, at the time of reading and later on.