I try to read a book a day. I also try to make $1000 in the stock market each trading day–but that doesn’t always work out. I don’t have a cell phone (they’re instruments of the Devil) and I despise “Call Waiting” (which is cutting in line). As of December 30, 2016 I’ve Retired from a 40-year teaching career as a College Professor. I am dedicated to finding a Good Home for the 30,000 books in my basement.
Hey George,
Just a bit of a clarification. If you pre-ordered Peace Talks it arrives on July 14th. The following one arrives Sept. 29th. Not that you’ll have trouble finishing books in time, but I just wanted you to be ready for the new book. Talk to you soon.
Stay safe,
Glenn
Glenn, thanks for the update on the new Dresden books!
Hey George,
When I signed up at Jim Butcher’s site for updates, they put this link in today with some cosplayers doing characters from the books. Thought you might like to take a look while you’re going through the books. Can’t wait for Stargirl tonight and SHIELD tomorrow.
Stay safe,
Glenn
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KR_G–Xvy2I
Glenn, thanks for the link! I’m looking forward to STARGIRL and AGENTS OF SHIELD, but I’m looking forward to WARRIOR NUN on Netflix starting Thursday! Stay Safe!
Hey George,
I was wondering about that one. There was a comic in the 90’s with that title and was bordering on too risque for most. Either way, it could be a good distraction in all this heat without a pool to cool off in. Just signed up for Disney for a month and was wondering if you had any suggestions about what was worthwhile on it. Seems like they moved a lot of the Marvel stuff on it and of course they have all the old Disney movies, but I’m not sure about the original programming. If you don’t have it, I’ll just see what Rotten Tomatoes has to say about what I find. Just watched Buffaloed the other night and was shocked at how accurate they got the locations even though they say they only shot in Toronto. Talk to you soon.
Stay safe,
Glenn
Glenn, I’m going to watch an episode of WARRIOR NUN tonight. I’ll let you know what I feel about it. STARGIRL featured some new plot twists. Cindy could be a very Bad Girl! Her hooded Daddy looks menacing, too!
We signed up for DISNEY+ in order to get HAMILTON. My wife loves it and I’m sure she’ll watch it a dozen times before we drop the subscription. Stay Safe!
Hey George,
I hope my wife never reads this blog, but I am not a fan of musicals and was corralled into all 2 hours and 40 minutes of Hamilton. The actors are doing a wonderful job, but honestly, I’d have rather enjoyed almost anything during that time. OK, not Jersey Shore, but almost anything else. Those books you got me in the last package was good, but I needed to pick up #1 to start reading the series. Luckily, it was available and I am enjoying Succubus Blues and have ordered up to number 6 in the series. As far as Disney + is concerned, I either have fond memories of all that they have on their paid channel or actually own the discs. I’m going to fill up some downtime with some of the animated series I didn’t get to see, but other than that, I’m not really impressed. Might look into DC Universe, but I’ll have to do my homework first. If you look at the CW site for upcoming TV series, they have several that look interesting like Kung Fu, Swamp thing(I believe the cancelled one), and several others. Funny, but they don’t let you select them to see what they are about. Tell Adrian I said, “Hi,”. 10 days till “Peace Talks”!!!!! OK, time for bed. Happy 4th of July.
Stay safe,
Glenn
Glenn, I watched the first two episodes of WARRIOR NUN on Netflix. Like most of the Netflix series I’ve watched, WARRIOR NUN gets off to a slow start. I’ll watch a couple more episodes today. Hopefully the action will pick up. WARRIOR NUN is a 10 episode series. I loved AGENTS OF SHIELD but I can’t believe they killed Coulson…again! Glad you’re enjoying SUCCUBUS BLUES. It looked like your kind of book! Happy 4th! Stay safe!
Hey George,
Binged Warrior Nun because I wanted to avoid the heat and crappy neighbors having a “we can’t get C19 because we’re too dumb” issues. BTW, just took the dogs out and they are still shooting off fireworks… Anyway, I collected Warrior Nun and Shotgun Mary back in the day, but the Netflix take on it is totally new. I give this one a 9.5 on the WTF scale when you get to episode 10. I really like the casting, like the twists, and love the craft in “what’s coming next” affect. I admit that I was a little harsh on Hamilton due to a crappy mood and some social biases. It was good and although I probably won’t be blasting the songs in my car, it was a good show. In between all the other stuff going on, I happened on “Southern Survival” on Netflix. My take on it is that it is Mythbusters for those who really don’t care about the science and just want to know the skinny on some survival stuff. Personally, I have many questions about the Battle Box crew, but it is entertaining in a “Hold my beer” sort of way. I have some friends that would look up the site and spend mucho bucks on the stuff they recommend and others that would just be laughing at people that would be spending money on this stuff. Either way, a good watch. I hope your 4th was good and you had a few good drinks.
Stay safe,
Glenn
Glenn, I’m impressed that you’re done with WARRIOR NUN. I’m planning on watching a couple of episodes today. I’m also looking forward to Charlize Theron in THE OLD GUARD which shows up on Netflix next Friday. Looks great! I’m reading GHOST STORY now. I hope to be all caught up with Harry Dresden by July 14! Stay safe!
Hey George,
Stargirl was good and I’m wondering about the “Dragon” family. Mom seems like she’s trapped, but wants to play with the “plumber.” I’m about to watch SHIELD so I’ll give you my opinion when we talk. Big news: Gary Larson started publishing cartoons again after 25 years!!! It’s at GaryLarson.com and his new stuff is digital. Article was on CNN page. I was such a huge fan of his and my two favorites were “Medville School for the Gifted” (like most people, and the scared spider. If you don’t know that one, it pops up when you type in scared spider. I remember when it came out int eh paper and I must have stared at it for 10 minutes until it hit me. OK, time to walk the dogs. Take care.
Stay safe,
Glenn
Glenn, loved AGENTS OF SHIELD! Loved Sybil’s Dalek-clones! I really don’t know how they’re going to wrap this FINAL MISSION up. Yes, the Dragon Family is creepy. But I like Cindy as a Bad Girl. I think her step-mother is either an android or brainwashed. Met with Adrian today. He says to tell you “Hi.” Stay safe!
Hey George,
Loved when Cindy played the whole time that she and Courtney were BFF’s until the end. Classic villain mind-set. Correction on my earlier message Gary Larson’s new stuff is at TheFarSide.com. In SHEILD, I thought they were going for the 80’s Cylon effect, even had the sound of the original “toasters” going on there. The episode had a bit of that 80’s slasher flick vibe with the early deaths of the love sick computer guy, the drummer, and his girl. I’m going to watch it again just for those elements. Yeah, really don’t know how they will wrap this up. Glad to hear Adrian is doing well. Again, pass along my best to him.
Stay safe,
Glenn
Glenn, when that wave of blood came down the hallway I had to laugh at that over-the-top moment. And, Deke’s fractured lyrics to Simple Minds’ “Don’t You Forget About Me” was hysterical. Hopefully, I can stop by your house next week and return those books you shared with me. I also might have a little surprise for you! Stay safe!
Hey George,
Held off till today to watch Stargirl and Agents of SHIELD and am going to try and start a campaign to get Agents extended for another season… I’ve told you in the past that the one constant I’ve had as a reaction to any Joss Whedon episode is “F#CK, You Joss Whedeon!!!” when he pulls his twists into the story. Well, my wife will attest that I screamed it again as I watched episode 7.(No spoilers) By the way, I now truly believe that my actual birth parents are Ron Swanson and Melinda May. An uncaring empath? I almost said, “Mom?” during this episode. Truly, I am ecstatic and sorry that there are only 3 more episodes to this show.
As for Stargirl, I am waffling on the story line a bit since there was so little action in this episode. The building of a hero/villain is important, but I was more in tune with Wildcat’s approach to it than Courtney’s way. Like in our current times, choose a side, dummy and let’s get on with it. It was well written how the new Brainwave struggled with the deeper questions of using his powers and the pain it caused him. I have many opinions(kept close to the vest) about how this would play out in real life, but am not so naive that it would be that simple. Oh, to have our talks at the gym again soon… Anyway, I’m re watching Grimm and loving the actors that have since gone on to other things. OK, back to my new bourbon… Talk to you soon.
Stay safe,
Glenn
Glenn, I’m just about to start reading PEACE TALKS. Love AGENTS OF SHIELD! And, as you pointed out, Joss Whedon plays with our minds in his superb plotting! I will be so SAD when this series ends. Next week, I’d like to swing by your house and drop off your SUPERMAN books…and a surprise. I have routine doctor’s appointments on Monday and Wednesday. The rest of the week is open. Stay safe!
Hey George,
Good seeing you yesterday. The CD’s were nice and I would recommend them if you know the episode “Once More with Feeling” from Buffy. I used to sing it aloud in my car along with my daughters and they are some of the few happy memories I have from that time. I was disappointed when I first got it that it only had what was recorded on the show and not the full songs. I have the music book that has the full versions of them and it’s interesting to note that Dawn’s interrupted song has a full version, but Whedon decided to scare her while she was singing it to get a truer reaction to being kidnapped. I was disappointed in the Angel sound track because there are only 4 songs with words. However, I did appreciate the Christian Kane song and found out he is the lead singer of the band Kane. I love that Angel episode when he gets his hand back and is then seen playing guitar and singing in Lorne’s club. I’ll have a review of Stargirl and SHIELD later after I get something done over here. I hope your meeting with Adrian went well and that you both enjoyed yourselves.
Stay Safe,
Glenn
Glenn, thank you again for stopping by with those graphic novels. I’m looking forward to reading them this weekend. Loved the Time Loop episode of AGENTS OF SHIELD! STARGIRL is really heating up! Stay safe!
Hey George,
I wish I was living in a world where SHIELD would run on a time loop. Loved the Daisy/Sousa kiss. Really didn’t see that one coming. Again, I found myself calling out “F#*K you, Joss Whedon!” during the episode and again hope for an endless loop of new episodes to come. Any news on a new JW series coming out? Honestly, a world without totally predictable TV or movie characters sounds too mundane to stand. Might as well have nonstop reality TV of paint drying on a wall. Stargirl is getting better and I love how the mom jumped right in… after all, her last name is…Smart. Sorry. Up too late. Just started on Peace Talks and really am looking forward to seeing what JB has in store for Dresden. My friend Ann said she loved/hated the book and where it left off. Oh well, next one comes out in September. Look forward to this week’s episodes and discussing them with you. Hope you like Exiles, it was a good read.
Stay safe,
Glenn
Glenn, I just finished PEACE TALKS and not to give away any Spoilers but Ann is right! I’m counting the days until BATTLE GROUND comes out! Only two more episodes of STARGIRL. I don’t know how they’re going to resolve all the issues that have been set into motion. Thanks again for lending me those books! Stay safe!
Hey George,
Half way through Peace Talks and am loving the story. If you haven’t seen Jim Butcher’s site, some of the short trailers made are making sense. Not sure I like some of the actors they chose to portray his characters, but he seemed to approve. Stargirl is certainly coming to a head and I was sure the janitor was going to be a new character. I did guess it right, if that doesn’t surprise you…lol. Really loving SHIELD and in complete denial about it not returning. I’m going to start the new Umbrella Academy in a week or so and am finishing up Voyager. Say, “Hi” to Adrian for me and hope for the best with school plans.
Stay safe,
Glenn
Glenn, I’m looking forward to the new UMBRELLA ACADEMY. There’s no way DC can wrap up STARGIRL in two episodes! I’m really getting angry at BRAINWAVE! Stay safe!
Hey George,
Just finished Peace Talks and feel that at least Jim Butcher didn’t kill any main characters off at the end like he did in one of his other books. I’m thinking that my costume one Halloween will be River Shoulders. A wookie mask, tux, and eyeglasses would be all I’d need… What do you think? I am going on with the Succubus series next and then on to finishing the Supernatural series. Unlike you, this will take me some time, but I’m keeping up on my reading. As for TV, I’m going through Voyager and Grimm, but am waiting to start The Umbrella Academy. As for graphic novels, I’m reading the 52 series of Teen Titans. If you are unfamiliar with it, they rebooted DC several years ago to give some wider story lines to some characters and freshen up others with new powers and backstories. If I can find the novelization of the overall story I’ll get it to you. Really a good read for character development and re-imagining of some lesser characters. OK, I’m enjoying the wetter, cooler weather and hoping it will continue. Best to all.
Stay safe,
Glenn
Glenn, I’m anxiously waiting for the penultimate episodes of STARGIRL and AGENTS OF SHIELD. I can’t believe they’re ending next week! Like you, I’m going to watch Season Two of THE UMBRELLA ACADEMY. I’ve also heard of a new Netflix series: STAR TREK LOWER DECKS that’s supposed to be funny. Stay safe!
Hey George,
Been busy with all the well planned and thought out academic responses to Covid. I’m sure you and your wife understand, but add on another zero for the real feel of it. Peace Talks was a blast for Jim Butcher and there are 27 days till War Games. Cant wait!!! Watching Murdoch Mysteries again and playing the drinking game that goes along with it, but honestly, unless you either drink like me or are sipping water, I recommend only playing while watching 2 episodes. My new guilty pleasure is Stargate and it’s spin-offs. Love the in-humor and cast dynamic. I hope all is well and that you and yours are enjoying a drink to relax. See if you can know this one “8645110320”.
Stay safe,
Glenn
Glenn, glad to hear you’re doing well. I have no idea what “8645110320” means unless it’s a phone number. I’m going to start watching Ridley Scott’s RAISED BY WOLVES series that starts today on HBO Max. I’ll be meeting with Adrian in a few hours. I’ve finished the JUSTICE graphic novels you lent me. Would you like me to drop them off at your house? Stay safe!
Hey George,
Sorry, I haven’t replied sooner, but first week of school is always Hell. First the explanation of the numbers I sent. In the restaurant business to 86 something is to get rid of it. 45 is the number president our current one is. The rest is this upcoming election day. Subtle, but for me a great message. So far, everyone I’ve told has said that it is really intelligent, but non-confrontational. On to other topics. We don’t have HBO so I’ll have to catch that one some other time. I’ve been wading through my Supernatural novels to be ready for the last few episodes that will start airing in Oct. How did you like Justice? I’d be interested to hear you take on it. I’ve been finishing up Murdoch Mysteries on Hulu and just started watching Star Gate 1. Didn’t get to see the whole series and am enjoying the series. Next on the list is Ink and Sigils by Kevin Hearne. Hope your meeting with Adrian went well. I’ll give you a call and stop by after school this week to make a trade with you.
Stay Safe,
Glenn
Glenn, I’m looking forward to seeing you! Stop by any time! There’s also a new FIREFLY novel about to be published next month. Check it out: https://www.amazon.com/Firefly-Generations-Tim-Lebbon/dp/1785658328/ref=sr_1_1?crid=38N2ZJDU5DW2V&dchild=1&keywords=firefly+generations&qid=1599960807&s=books&sprefix=firefly+genera%2Caps%2C159&sr=1-1
Stay safe!
Hey George,
I’ll shoot for Tuesday or Wednesday for a visit after school. The Firefly novel has been on order since April or so, but thanks for the heads up. It should be out Nov. 3. Getting ready for the next challenging week of virtual teaching and all the landmines there. Still no contact with about 1/2 of the students in my class and getting ready for “full steam ahead” lessons next week. Yeah… Talk to you soon.
Stay safe,
Glenn
Glenn, I’ll look forward to your visit Tuesday or Wednesday after school.
Hey George,
Thanks for the Scooby book. It’s in the que, but waiting till the 29th for War Games!!!!! Making my way through Stargate 1 and I can’t remember if your wife is a Murdoch Mysteries fan, but if she is, I have a real treat for her. Otherwise, kind of bummed that they announced the last season of my favorite caped superhero in 2021. Will there ever be good news again in 2020? Just pre-ordered the newest Patircia Briggs Alpha and Omega series book due out the day before St Pat’s day. A new book and a reason to drink a beer. You know I’m in. Say Hi to Adrian and we’ll talk about remote teaching and my plans to retire when we meet again. I hope all is well and that you and your are safe and content.
Stay safe,
Glenn
Glenn, Adrian and I plan to go to the Aquatic Center if it opens on October 1st and set up a regular schedule. I can’t wait to hear about your retirement plans!
Hey George,
Plans for retiring at this point include hitting the lottery and hoping Scotland will allow people from NY to move. Big day today. Power washed the front deck, tarred my neighbor’s and my driveway, cleaned out another part of my garage, and organized my major tool bags. I know you, so major tool bags are those bags pre-set for jobs like plumbing, electrical, general… In the coming weeks if the weather holds, I’ll be doing some masonry repair work on my house. Scary since it will be the first time I’m attempting this, but I’m fairly sure that it won’t cause the whole thing to explode…lol. I’d ask if you want to help, but I know the answer. Just saw the trailer for the final episodes of Supernatural and I’m both pumped and saddened. But Hell, how many shows lasted 15 years with the mostly original cast? If you get the chance, I’d recommend a stop at Prosper for the pizza and Oktoberfest beer. If you can get a seat inside, they serve it in a boot ala “Beerfest”. I highly recommend it. I “put on both boots” and had a wonderful time. I am leery of plans like the Aquatic Center opening since it seems like a recipe for contagion. However appealing seeing the both of you in swim trunks is, I would urge caution. However, if I measures seem adequate, I might consider joining you. Bonus, while cleaning out the garage, I found several bottles of aged sake the are in great condition. There is hope in 2020! Talk to you soon.
Stay safe,
Glenn
Glenn, when you are as “Fix-It” challenged as I am, the answer to to hire someone who knows what they are doing. Diane and I hired Todd to do some painting and some repair work. He starts tomorrow. Meanwhile I’m a little dubious about the Aquatic Center opening soon. Nothing on their web site. Hope things are going well with your students! Stay safe!!
Hey George,
I am soooooo psyched!!!!!! Supernatural starts again this week!!! Thursday, I don’t know if I will be able to concentrate all day. On a lesser note, The Outpost is also coming back right after and I love the fantasy realm it creates. On a more ironic note, CW is so strapped for shows, they are rereleasing Swampthing on the same night as the VP debate. I hope people will be able to tell the difference between the 2 shows…Say, “Hi,” to Adrian and tell him to stay safe. Found a treasure you might be interested in while cleaning out my garage and will make some time this week to drop by. Maybe Wednesday or if I feel safe to drive, Thursday.
Stay safe,
Glenn
Glenn, either Wednesday or Thursday would be fine. I also found something I think you’ll enjoy! Adrian and I went to the Aquatic Center when it opened on Thursday. We also went Friday. Basically they let in about 20 people at a time. If your face isn’t in the water, you have to wear a mask. The steam room, hot tub, and shower rooms are all closed. And, the water is still cold–some things never change! Stay safe!
Hey George,
I was going to stop by yesterday, but it was pouring when I got near NT, so I just kept driving. If it’s clearer today, I’ll stop over. I’m at home today doing the remote thing. It’s OK, but I find more distractions than getting work done. Also the untimely dog barking at the Amazon delivery person or cat across the screen makes things interesting. I’m sure that I’m not going to chance the pool until things settle down. Swamp Thing is really dragging me through the muck…pun intended. I’m really liking Pandora and The Coroner on CW, as well as, Supernatural. Last week’s episode had me in stitches. This week’s was less comedy, but more of what the show was originally. Finally started Battle Ground and will let you know what I think after the first few chapters. Best to Adrian and you.
Stay safe,
Glenn
Glenn, I plan to go to the pool to frolic and talk to Adrian so I won’t be home until 5:00 P.M. I’ll be home all evening after that. Like you, I’m about to dump SWAMP THING. “Drag through the muck” slowly is a good description of the viewing experience with that program! I’m also dropping DEVILS which is about banking and high finance crime, but it’s too dull to continue. Hope to see you soon! Stay safe!
Hey George,
No judgement about the “frolicking” with Adrian, I did my sensitivity,(tic) training (tic) and would find comments about that type of suggestive humor distasteful and against accepted cultural norms of the moment…lol. The image of you 2 frolicking is punishment enough… As to my earlier info about my masonry skills and doing it myself, well, some times you open the bag of cookies and enjoy dipping them in milk and sometimes they lead to another dimension that has our current leader elected to a 4th term. Guess which one my project led to… I’ve wrangled that monster thanks to several calls to informed friends and Youtube, but honestly, I’m done fixing stuff for a bit. Did find out that a neighbor is licensed at dong siding and struck up a conversation about SciFi and bourbon. Updates later. By the way, I’m currently in the middle of Battle Ground and am plotting the painful demise of Jim Butcher. Holy George R. R. Martin, Batman! No spoilers, I promise, but I was stunned for 10 minutes. Supernatural is a delight, but I’m dreading the finale. Coroner is a wonderous show with a deep storyline. Top recommendations for that one. Swampthign is getting the standard 5, but not showing me anything I am dazzled by. My only hope is that they plan to include Constantine as a series regular. Follow me on tis one: they were a graphic novel duo for many issues. Would love to see his sass juxtaposed with Swampthing’s laconic image. (English degree, must use big words). I’ll tell you about their classic split just before “Hellblazer” was released. As for what I’m binging, I have 3 episodes of SG-1 to finsih the series. Then on to Atlantis. I plan on seeing you this weekend and will have what I hope is a surprise. Deep cut. My best to Adrian and yourself.
Stay safe,
Glenn
Glenn, Adrian says “Hi!” I bailed out on SWAMP THING and DEVILS. Loved the Season Finale of LOVECRAFT COUNTRY. I see some movie theaters are opening, but we’re not going until a vaccine arrives. Can’t wait to see what happens after BATTLE GROUND. Jim Butcher is devious! Stay safe!
Hey George,
Giving Swanpthing my standard 5 episodes. It seems only fair, but honestly I see why CW cancelled it the first round. At least the movie had a semi-naked Adrianne Barbeau… really dating myself on that one. Taking my time on Battle Ground, but it will be done too soon for my taste. Just started rewatching Stargate: Atlantis and enjoying the costumes and characters. Pre-Aquaman Jason Mamoa is still my favorite character as Ronan Dex. I was thinking that AMC has a deal for renting out the theater for private showing of select movies. At $99 that isn’t bad for up to 20 people. I’ll let you know if I’m going to do it and you and the wife are invited. I agree, there are a lot of things I’m wishing to do, but not before a vaccine. Sorry I haven’t gotten over to see you, but this week was filled with time management SNAFUs. I’ll call and check in when I get a minute. Good news, the masonry problems have been taken care of, and a chance greeting with a neighbor may have solved my other household problems as he is very adept at home repairs beyond my level. Funny how just saying, “Hi” can solve a lot of problems with people. Anyway, time to hit the land of nod.
Stay safe.
Glenn
PS – If you haven’t checked out Coroner, I’d seriously give it a viewing.
Glenn, the plumber is supposed to show up this evening to install the drain in the new bath tub. Our contractor promised to show up tomorrow to finish up the job (basically painting the bathroom). I can’t wait for this project to be finished. Hope to see you soon! Stay safe!
Hey George,
2020 just keeps giving and taking. Biden has won, but they just announced that Alex Trebek died. I can’t tell you how often I waited for Jeopardy to come on to test myself for the day. I’ve barely missed a day since he announced he had cancer and was fighting it. Even watched the TV special about the making of the show. Dealing with a health issue this week, but will be up and around by mid-week or so. 1 more Swampthing to go and 2 more episodes of Supernatural again, good and bad. I’ll see if I can get over to drop off a book or 2. I hope you and yours are breathing a much needed sigh of relief and that you are all well.
Stay safe,
Glenn
Glenn, we’re happy Biden won and Trump will leave the White House in January (but he won’t go away from TV and Twitter). Are you off on Veterans Day? I could swing by and drop your books off. How did you like BATTLE GROUND?
Hey George,
Sorry, I have the day off, but am recovering from having kidney stones removed again. I’ll shoot you a message when I’m up and around again. Truly sucks. Loved Battle Ground. I love the open nature of how he continues the story. I had already read the bonus Christmas story from Jim Butcher’s site, but still loved rereading it. Back to my Supernatural stash and my 2 new Firefly (one novel one graphic) are in the cue. Ordered the newest Firefly the other night, coming in March and am trying to space out good books till then. I hope your meetings with Adrian can continue when the weather turns crappy and again I hope you and your are safe and well. See you soon.
Stay safe,
Glenn
Glenn, sorry to hear about your kidney stones! I had one kidney stone attack when I was 35 years old and NEVER want another one! Let me know when you’re open to visitors and I’ll drop by with a bag of goodies for you. Get well soon!
I first encountered your work while exploring for reviews and opinions about THE BRIGHT BOOK OF LIFE: NOVELS TO READ AND REREAD by Harold Bloom, which i had found to be more a report and memoir on Bloom’s taste than an objective report on the canon of the “best and the brightest” of all time. I, too, found his leaving all but one of Thomas Mann’s and Joseph Conrad’s I’ve enjoyed some of Bloom’s work; perhaps because we share some of those tastes. His “Best Poems of the English language” was filled with insight and with new takes on familiar pieces.
I like you am a retired teacher. I taught high school English as well as Latin, Greek, theater, and religious studies for 41 year and taught undergraduate theology at Xavier University in Cincinnati. I know those numbers can be puzzling, but from 1991-2008 I taught at La Salle High School during the day and at Xavier in the evening. After I retired from La Salle, I was able to devote more time to Xavier in both theology and theater. I retired from Xavier in the spring of 2011.
I am writing you to thank you for your insightful contributions and to express a hope that we can share some of those over time.
I look forward to your future writings on this site. Best wishes…………..
Bob Sauerbrey
Bob, welcome to the blog! There will be a new posting every day so feel free to comment any time!
Hello,
North and Central is the story of Andy, a bartender in Chicago’s North Austin neighborhood in the late 1970s. For years, he’s been slinging beers to corrupt cops and fat Zenith employees, but given the West Side’s ongoing decline (and his own serious health issues), he’s starting to wonder how long it can go on. He’s serving workers from a dying factory in a dying neighborhood; he sees crime on the rise–and he decides to become a criminal himself.
North and Central evokes the Windy City in the epic winter of ’78-’79–the bleak season of blizzards and disco and John Wayne Gacy–capturing it in microcosm through the denizens of one blue-collar watering hole.
WGN’s Rick Kogan said North and Central was a “terrific, terrific novel.”
Mystery Tribune included North and Central in their selection of 16 new crime novels set in the 1970s.
The Pittsburgh Post Gazette said, ” …the reader follows [Andy] through a brutal Chicago winter to an ending that is nothing less than killer.”
Crime writer and host of Writer Types, Eric Beetner said,”Attention noir fans: this book is the real deal…You smell the stale beer, feel the desperation, suffer with the regular Joe’s just trying for a Hail Mary in this unforgiving life. 5 stars.”
If you’d like, I’d be happy to send along a copy for review.
Thank you,
Bob Hartley
Bob, sure…send a review copy and I’ll read it.
Great. Please send an address to my email and I’ll send one. Thanks.
Just read your about page after reading you for about ever. A book a day? I wish. I have the time I just don’t read that fast. And books just keep getting longer.
Steve, I struggle to get a book read every day. It was easier when I was younger. And, as you point out, the books keep getting longer!
Hi,
I sent you a review query for my book North and Central some time ago. You replied that you’d be interested in receiving a copy. I asked for a mailing address, but you didn’t reply. So, I thought I’d give it another try. My email address is bobhart815@gmail.com. Thanks.
Hi George, if you have these two books for sale, “The Big Gold Dream” and “All Shot Up” by Chester Himes (Signet 1975) please let me know. Thanks!
Christopher, I donated THE BIG GOLD DREAM and ALL SHOT UP to SUNY at Buffalo’s SPECIAL COLLECTIONS. But, I’m sure you can find those books online.