The Almanac of OBXNeil

Sunday, January 25, 2009

Books that Sucked Ass

Stephen King 1988-1990, 1993-1996 This includes three of his most dreadful novels: Insomnia, The Tommyknockers and Needful Things. I admire the guy, but these years had some real stinkers in them.
Dark Mission by Richard Hoagland. I love me some conspiracy literature, but this is one of those that strain the credulity of the incredulous. NASA went to the moon to reconniter alien ruins. Uh huh, yeah. A nut case in a genre of fruitbats.
Anything by Anne Rice in the last ten years. Jesus, God, but I can't read any more sumptuous prose about the drinking of blood. Enough, woman!

Last Good Book I Read Was...

Author: Alastair Reynolds, Science Fiction
Myths, Lies and Downright Stupidity, John Stossel...consumer reporter for 20/20, he just might be one of the most hated journalists on TV. Unflinchingly, he dispells our collective cultural myths about health, business, relationships and a host of other subjects that have over time collected a haze of almost urban legend. A great many of our "common sense" beliefs are pretty much laid waste by actual data. Terrifically digestable, the chapters are broken down into succinct little tidbits, perfect for just before bed or bathroom reading. You'll shake your head wondering why you thought the way you did.
The Day The Universe Changed, James Burke...this is the guy of "Connections" fame, who has the most brilliant view of the weaving, intricate threads that really connect people and events throughout history. Instead of dates and places, he presents flow, a dynamic and absorbing journey that recreates the chaotic sea of our progress through time. This is the history teacher you wish you had, because his passion is infectious and unlike repetative person and date memorization, you actually remember what this guy says.