Books

Book 68: Waiting for Snow in Havana – Carlos Eire

This book was both brilliant and boring. There were times when I couldn’t stop reading and times when all I wanted to do was abandon the book for another. Mostly I’m glad I finished it and hopefully it is one of those books that in a few weeks/months I’ll appreciate having read it.

I was excited about seeing Eire speak at the upcoming Boston Book Festival and I still plan on going to the panel, but I’m not as excited as I was. This isn’t the first book I’ve read that let me down. Leaving it on my list for so long without reading it, removed a lot of the luster and excitement from when I first found it and wanted to read it. Either way I can’t get my copy signed as Tom accidentally spilled water all over it and I had to check out a new version from the library to finish reading it (the main impetus in actually finishing it).

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Books

Book 53: Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha – Roddy Doyle

Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha - Roddy DoyleFirst, I want to share that this book is staying on my shelf to re-read again and again. Emma Donoghue recommended Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha at her book reading back in May and I randomly found a copy at the Goodwill in Maine and purchased it. And I am glad for both of these!

Second, the more books I read featuring young protagonists the more I wonder if I’m interested in just coming of age or if it’s the portrayal of youth and childish innocence. Does it stem from my own childish wonderment at the world? I have a paradoxical sense of both childish wonderment and aged skepticism.

It is the story of 10-year-old Patrick Clarke. He’s growing up with a younger brother and two younger sisters, his best friend is Kevin and they have a gang of friends that explore the neighborhood and cause as much trouble as 10-year-old boys cause.

Click here to continue reading and for three great quotes!