May 2022 – Ryan’s Book Blog

A Dirty Job

May 23, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in March of 2006, “A Dirty Job” is a darkly comedic novel written by Christopher Moore that follows the life of Charlie Asher, a San Francisco bookstore owner who unexpectedly becomes a “death merchant” after the death of his wife. Charlie discovers that he is a “beta male,” a person who collects the souls of the dying and must help guide them to their next destination. As Charlie navigates his new job and the strange underworld of San Francisco’s supernatural community, he becomes embroiled in a battle between good and evil that could determine the fate of humanity. The book is both hilarious and thought-provoking, exploring themes of mortality, family, and what it means to be a hero in a world full of darkness.

My Thoughts

My intent was to read something a little lighter so I looked up the best amusing novels. This one came up on the list so I checked it out.

It was certainly engaging but a little rougher around the edges for my tastes. Certainly the idea of retrieving souls is interesting but I think they didn’t quite stick the landing at the end.

Recommendation

It was Ok.

As You Wish

May 20, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in October of 2014, “As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride” is a memoir by actor Cary Elwes, who played the role of Westley in the beloved 1987 film The Princess Bride. The book recounts Elwes’s experiences filming the movie, from the audition process to the final scenes. Elwes also shares behind-the-scenes stories about the film’s other cast members, including Robin Wright, Andre the Giant, and Billy Crystal, and the movie’s director, Rob Reiner. Throughout the book, Elwes reflects on the enduring popularity of The Princess Bride and the ways in which it has touched the lives of fans around the world.

My Thoughts

This book was so much fun. I enjoyed the behind the scenes look at it all and particularly anything to do with Andre the Giant.

Recommendation

If you like the movie, you’ll love this book…

The Princess Bride

May 18, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

The “Good Parts” version of the classic tale of The Princess Bride was released in 1973 and was performed by Rob Reiner after he directed the movie version in 1987.

My Thoughts

I had only seen the movie but this was a fun addition to what I had already seen.

Recommendation

It was a good read

How to be Perfect

May 17, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

From Michael Schur the producer of “The Good Place” came “How to Be Perfect” which was published in January of 2022. This book goes over some of the philosophical research Mr. Schur did for “The Good Place” and dips its toe in most philosophical studies.

My Thoughts

The author does a good job in keeping you engaged with jokes and so on. However, there was a few too many jokes which made it feel like a sitcom. (I guess that shouldn’t have been a surprise.)

Recommendation

I liked it.

The Splendid and the Vile

May 4, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in February of 2020, “The Splendid and the Vile” is written by Erik Larson that focuses on Winston Churchill’s first year as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom during World War II. The book draws on diaries, letters, and other primary sources to provide a detailed account of Churchill’s leadership during the Blitz, the Nazi bombing campaign against Britain. Larson weaves together the political, military, and personal aspects of Churchill’s life, showing how he rallied the British people in their darkest hour and helped to change the course of the war. The book also explores the relationships and personalities of the people around Churchill, including his family, advisors, and close associates.

My Thoughts

I’ve read through a few histories on Winston Churchill but I really liked this one. As the subject matter time frame was so narrow, the author was able to get to a good deal of detail I hadn’t been exposed to before. I love a good story of pure grit and determination and there isn’t a much better subject than Churchill.

Recommendation

Great read if you like detail.

A Promised Land

May 2, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

A Promised Land is a book detailing the life of our 44th President Barack Obama from his run for the Presidency to about 2017. Published in November of 2021, former President Obama said he had been working on it for the last four years and there is still more to come.

My Thoughts

As always, it is good to hear the story straight from participants without the usual cheers and jeers interrupting the narrative. Having recently read John Boehner’s book dealing with that time frame, it gave a good balance to the narrative given. It’s amazing how much more polarized we have become in such a story time.

Recommendation

It was long but worth it to hear from the man himself.