Month: December 2024

The Odyssey

Background

Believed to date from the 8th century BCE, “The Odyssey” is attributed to the poet Homer. The Odyssey is an epic poem that follows the Greek hero Odysseus as he attempts to return home to Ithaca after the Trojan War. Over the course of ten years, Odysseus encounters numerous obstacles, including mythical creatures like the Cyclops Polyphemus, the enchantress Circe, and the Sirens, as well as divine interventions from gods like Poseidon and Athena. Meanwhile, his wife Penelope and son Telemachus contend with suitors vying for Penelope’s hand, believing Odysseus to be dead. The poem explores themes of loyalty, perseverance, cunning, and the human struggle against fate. Written in dactylic hexameter, The Odyssey remains a cornerstone of Western literature, reflecting the values and culture of ancient Greece.

The Odyssey
The Odyssey

My Thoughts

I have read this before but this time I listen to it on audio book. I believe I was able to enjoy it much more this way as I wasn’t forced to sound through all the names and places. If I were to do it again, I believe the best way would be to read it while listening to the narration for the best effect.

However, I can’t really say I enjoyed it. My reading of this work is much more in line with wanting to have a familiarity with the story rather than deriving joy from the process.

Our hero ‘Odysseus’ is consistently helped along by Athena herself and given several reassurances from Zeus. Odysseus is a manly man who is the Greek ideal. Smart, cunning, and extremely strong. If this were the 1980’s, he would be lifting his sword and saying, “By the power of Greyskull!” And then give us our moral for the day. Poseidon is angry with him because he had the nerve to blind the cyclops rather than be eaten like several of his crew. (While tragic in the moment, the loss of so many didn’t seem to be truly felt.) Unfortunately, men are hanging out at Odysseus’s home and are making a play for his wife. During which, they are all eating Odysseus’s food and bullying his staff. His son, Telemachus, is a pansy who can’t manage to throw them out. (In fairness, Telemachus does eventually get the nerve to help out, but he had wait for his father to return and clean house.) Now, does Odysseus just show up and toss them out? Of course not! He shows up as a beggar, gets abused, and then shows up everyone in a test of manhood. Then he kills the suitors, the staff who didn’t seem to miss him, and leaves again to fulfill the prophecy given to him in Hades.

As a modern reader, several of the ideals seem to be very familiar. A sense of justice for one. However, I would qualify it as Disney justice though because only the main protagonists receive justice. Some of the staff continued to pray for the return of Odysseus and they were rewarded, yet this is the exception. Most characters felt the sword of justice rather than rewards.

What was striking to me was the ancient world’s view of the gods. The sacrifices at every meal, the ability to offend one by pleasing another. That must have been a very confusing time to live.

All that said, I’m sure I missed a great deal as there are entire courses on this work. I will have to look into it a bit more.

Recommendation

It is worth the read. Not only is a cornerstone of Western thought, it is a mark of education and culture to understand the names and references.

Bastille vs the Evil Librarians

Background

Published in 2022, “Bastille vs the Evil Librarians” co-written by Brandon Sanderson and Janci Patterson, the focus shifts to Bastille, the fierce and pragmatic knight from the Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians series. This story takes place after the events of the original series and delves into Bastille’s perspective as she takes on a mission to save Alcatraz and restore order. As Bastille grapples with her responsibilities and insecurities, she must confront the Librarians’ schemes and rally allies to prevent their plans from succeeding.

Bastille vs the Evil Librarians
Bastille vs the Evil Librarians

My Thoughts

As the last of the “Evil Librarian” books, Sanderson and Patterson did a great job in bringing it all together in a neat bow. This series seemed like it was fun to write as again and again the text refers to writing devices, methodologies, and terms in the course of the story. It was a fun read.

Recommendation

Great series. I recommend it for younger readers.

World War Z

Background

Published in 2006 “World War Z” by Max Brooks is a fictional oral history that recounts a global zombie pandemic through a series of interviews conducted by the narrator, a United Nations Postwar Commission agent. The book chronicles the outbreak, from its origins in China to the collapse of societies and the eventual fight for survival. Each account offers unique perspectives, including military personnel, scientists, and civilians, highlighting humanity’s resilience and ingenuity. The narrative explores themes of geopolitics, survival, and human behavior in the face of catastrophe. Brooks creates a detailed and chillingly realistic portrayal of a worldwide crisis, presenting the events through a wide lens that captures the complexities of a global response to an unprecedented disaster.

World War Z
World War Z

My Thoughts

First off, as I mentioned in my recent review of “Elantris” zombies are likely the lamest of all monsters. (Pun intended.) They don’t make any sense at all to me. I will concede there have been different versions of zombies over the years and many of them are different. Regardless, every version of the zombie (e.g. fast, shambling, radioactive, voodoo, alien, and even Rob Zombie) are beyond my understanding of why they have any appeal at all.

That said, I enjoyed the fractured perspective of the book. All of it was in the form of post-encounter first hand reports from various sources from all over the globe. This gave Brooks the ability to briefly introduce each character and look at what was unfolding from their particular point of view. The reader quickly gets use to the slang terms of “Zack” or “G” for the undead along with inferring the heroes and events that had become common knowledge in this post-apocalyptic world.

I remember the discussion when the CDC interviewed Max Brooks about the book. There was a bit of interest in it as I was involved in military training and we were writing instruction manuals about CBRN Recon and the like. I remember starting the book but I don’t know if I completed it. Honestly, there isn’t too much of an ending beyond thinking they got most of them and some speculation about how their children might live in the world after. Perhaps it just wasn’t that memorable.

One thought that’s caused me some self reflection is how people were rated as near useless because they didn’t have any tangible skills. The white collar workers in the story weren’t very much help when everyone was needed to farm, mine, or fix things. The book uses the example of a “creative executive” as a particular someone who was of no use. I enjoy working with my hands but I wonder if I have the stamina to make a living at it. I’m glad I don’t have to find out in the near future.

Recommendation

Zombies are dumb, but it wasn’t a bad read.

The Dark Talent

Background

Published in 2016, “In The Dark Talent,” fifth book in Brandon Sanderson’s Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians series, Alcatraz Smedry grapples with the consequences of his unique abilities as he faces his most personal and dangerous mission yet. Determined to rescue his father and stop the Evil Librarians’ growing influence, Alcatraz must venture into the Highbrary, the Librarians’ central stronghold. The story explores Alcatraz’s struggle with self-doubt, his evolving understanding of his powers, and the challenges of living up to the expectations placed upon him.

The Dark Talent
The Dark Talent

My Thoughts

Most of the book was very similar to the rest of the series with the exception that it had a very abrupt end. The fifth book was repeatedly touted as the last book in the series and it just ended on a sad note somewhat like the Empire Strikes back. It left the reader wanting more. Unfortunately, for readers who read the “last” book right after it came out, the next book was 8 years in coming. Fortunately for me, that was a couple of years ago and the new last book is available at my library. 🙂

Recommendation

A great fake ending!

The Shattered Lens

Background

Published in 2016, “The Shattered Lens” by Brandon Sanderson is the fourth book in the Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians series. Alcatraz Smedry faces a critical challenge as he works to defend the Free Kingdom city of Tuki Tuki from an impending invasion by the Librarians. With his talent for breaking things and the support of his allies, including Bastille and his extended Smedry family, Alcatraz confronts the Librarians’ advanced weaponry and their attempts to seize control. The story delves into themes of leadership, responsibility, and ingenuity as Alcatraz navigates the complexities of protecting his world while growing into his role as a leader.

The Shattered Lens
The Shattered Lens

My Thoughts

This was a fun read and full of odd one offs and insider humor. I love that! As with the other books in the series, I feel like it would have been more effective if Alcatraz was older. Much of the narrative and actions of the characters feel like they are a few years older at a minimum. Regardless, I’m almost to the end of the series and I’m excited to see where it goes from here.

Recommendation

Fun quick read.

The 7½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle

Background

Published in 2018, “The 7½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle” by Stuart Turton is a mystery set in a crumbling estate called Blackheath. Aiden Bishop, finds himself trapped in a time loop, reliving the same day over and over with the task to solve the murder of Evelyn Hardcastle. Each morning, Aiden wakes up in the body of a different guest, gaining their unique perspective and skills, but also inheriting their flaws and biases. As Aiden pieces together the events of the day, he must contend with hidden agendas, shifting alliances, and others determined to thwart his progress.

The 7½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle
The 7½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle

My Thoughts

This book was recommended by a couple of friends of ours and so I was excited to get into it. I didn’t read the summary and I put out of my mind everything our friends told us about the book. (Other than they really liked it.) My wife and I decided to read it together and we did so separately. On retrospect, that wasn’t the best idea due to the subject matter.

The first part of the book is all lived through a “host” and didn’t make any sense. It wasn’t supposed to at the time but I thought the guy was simply insane. As the book kept going, more and more made sense. Although, it does keep you guessing till the very end. Every theory I had throughout the book wasn’t even close to the eventual plot.

Recommendation

It was ok. I didn’t really love it but mysteries aren’t my preference.

Submarine: A Guided Tour Inside a Nuclear Warship

Background

Published in 1993, “Submarine: A Guided Tour Inside a Nuclear Warship” is a non-fiction book by Tom Clancy. The book offers an in-depth exploration of the inner workings of both attack and nuclear submarines, with tours of the USS Miami (SSN-755), an improved Los Angeles-class nuclear attack submarine, and the British submarine HMS Triumph. Clancy provides detailed insights into submarine design, construction, and operations, supplemented by diagrams, photographs, and previously classified information. The book also delves into the history and evolution of submarines, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of these complex vessels.

Submarine: A Guided Tour Inside a Nuclear Warship
Submarine: A Guided Tour Inside a Nuclear Warship

My Thoughts

This book was much more of a reference than a story so it was a little hard to push through it. Clancy does give some scenarios and speculations of how a submersible ship could be used in war and politics, but most of it read more like a text book. It truly is amazing what marvels of engineering these vessels are and how much they can do! It’s important to keep in mind this was written 30 years ago. I can only imagine what the new Columbia class boats are able to achieve.

Clancy reinforced my desire to never step on one of these boats. My hat is off to all the intrepid submariners who have endeavored to keep us safe. I sincerely hope they found joy in their service, but I would politely decline the opportunity if it ever presented itself. Seriously, I thought it was extreme to be shipped off to Mars and yet every habitation scenario I saw was better than life on a submarine.

Recommendation

This is dated information but still interesting.

Jubal Sackett

Background

Published in 1985, “Jubal Sackett” by Louis L’Amour is the fourth novel in the Sackett series, chronicling the adventures of Jubal, the restless son of Barnabas Sackett. A natural explorer, Jubal embarks on a solitary journey into the uncharted wilderness of early America, seeking both adventure and a deeper connection with the untamed land. Along the way, he encounters challenges from hostile tribes, dangerous wildlife, and the harsh elements.

Jubal’s quest takes on a greater purpose when he meets a Natchez princess, Itchakomi, and vows to protect her as she seeks refuge. Together, they navigate the perils of the frontier, with Jubal’s survival skills and honor guiding their way. The novel is a tale of courage, independence, and the spirit of exploration that captures the essence of the American frontier.

Jubal Sackett
Jubal Sackett

My Thoughts

This was easily my favorite book in the Sackett series thus far. L’Amour’s style remains straight forward and raw, yet he is finding his stride in this series. He seems to be more comfortable with the subject matter as the story stayed within geographic United States and as the story moved West of the Mississippi. I’m excited for the next book in the series to take it even further.

The evolution of the friendship of Jubal and Keokotah was fun to watch develop. Being a bit of a loner himself, L’Amour did a great job depicting how two men could spend so much time together without feeling the need to fill in every silence with conversation.

The strong silent figure seems to have diminished from more contemporary culture. However, I remember back in the 80’s when this was published, the male ideal was much more stoic and isolated. Certainly in the Western genre the archetypical hero was a man of few words but able to take action if needed. I guess we still see it somewhat in action movies but I can’t think of many other places it still exists. It has been interesting watching societal expectations of men change over the last 40 years or so. I wonder what my father would think of today’s expectations for men and how my sons will see their role as they venture into adulthood.

All in all, this book served as a wonderful time capsule back to a different time and a different culture.

Recommendation

This was the best Sackett book I’ve read so far and it could stand on its own.

The Emperor’s Soul

Background

Published in 20212, “The Emperor’s Soul” by Brandon Sanderson is a standalone novella set in the Cosmere universe. Blending intricate magic with philosophical questions about identity and art, the story follows Shai, a forger and skilled thief, who is captured after attempting to steal a priceless artifact. Facing execution, Shai is given an impossible task: to recreate the soul of the Emperor Ashravan, who has been left brain-dead after an assassination attempt.

Using her mastery of Forgery (a magical art that alters an object’s history to transform its present) Shai must craft a new soul for the Emperor within 100 days, all while under the watchful eyes of her captors. As she delves into Ashravan’s life to understand and recreate him, Shai reflects on the nature of identity, creativity, and the value of true artistry.

The Emperor's Soul
The Emperor’s Soul

My Thoughts

I really enjoyed this book as short as it was (a mere 176 pages so barely a paragraph for Sanderson). His books always seem have some interesting rules for forces bringing the fantastic to the plot. However, once I become accustomed to how things work, I forget the ridiculous and fall into the story. This was certainly the case here. This type of investiture, to use the Cosmere term, was pretty imaginative. A “forger” could rewrite the history of an object to change the reality of that object. So, a broken item can be remade or a whole item can be broken… or a person could be modified or even rewritten.

Shai was very likable character and though she is criminal, she was easy to root for as she struggles for freedom and success. Sanderson didn’t have much time to go into too many characters in depth, but this story could easily spawn sequels and perhaps an entire series.

Recommendation

Great book. I enjoyed it.

The Warrior’s Path

Background

Published in 1980, “The Warrior’s Path” is the third novel in the Sacketts series written by Louis L’Amour. The story follows brothers Yance and Kin Sackett as they embark on a perilous journey to rescue Yance’s kidnapped sister-in-law. Their quest leads them from the Carolina wilderness to a superstitious town rife with rumors, and eventually to the exotic West Indies. Throughout their adventure, the brothers confront various challenges, including rival Indian tribes and ruthless individuals exploiting tensions for personal gain.

The Warrior's Path
The Warrior’s Path

My Thoughts

So far this has been my favorite of the Sackett Series. L’Amour does a better job in not making the protagonist too powerful while still giving space to cheer for their success. The novel was fast paced and engaging though the characters are still a little too two dimensional to me.

Recommendation

It wasn’t bad and is my favorite in the series so far.