1. On the Calculation of Volume: 1
— Solvej Balle
My book of the month. Just prior to reading this, I read a good article that asks the age-old question, what makes a book good? The author outlines five objective responses, of which her fifth — voice — is what, for me, makes this book so remarkably compelling.
2. On the Calculation of Volume: 2
— Solvej Balle
This could very well have been bound with volume one. It certainly would not make much sense as a stand-alone novel. The third installment will be published in November. I’ve already pre-ordered it. I believe it’s a planned 7-part series.
3. The Grapes of Wrath
— John Steinbeck
Finally got around to reading this. A classic indeed but it doesn’t have the character arcs so magnificently realized in East of Eden. Although I’d still enthusiastically recommend it.
4. In Dubious Battle
— John Steinbeck
Enjoyed this more than The Grapes of Wrath. A little more hope in this one. And a reminder that US citizens have never understood what socialism and democratic socialism are.
5. Summer
— Edith Wharton
I loved Ethan Frome and, although this didn’t quite capture my imagination in the same way, it’s still worth a read.
6. By Night in Chile
— Roberto Bolaño
My third by this author. This one just didn’t do it for me. Bored me to tears. But as one reviewer writes, “one needs to know a little of the historical background of Chile” to make sense of this one. And, I admit to knowing next to nothing about the history of Chile.
Remarkable Renaissance Books
My new book, Remarkable Renaissance Books, is now available for preorder:
