bookshelves: discworld-books
We're all familiar with the concept of a "Christmas Special", particularly in the realm of television. "Hogfather" is the Discworld novel equivalent of a "Christmas Special", in which Pratchett brings together nearly all of the familiar characters from across the Disc and throws them together into a superb, hilarious plot. ]]>
bookshelves: discworld-books
If you have ever studied or read philosophy, particularly ancient philosophy, you will adore this Discworld adventure. Pratchett takes all kinds of philosophical and historical themes, turns them on their heads and produces a work of wonder. The central plot of a strict hierarchical church maintaining that the world is a sphere in the face of a blind philosopher who claims that it is actually flat and rides on the back of a turtle, along with the concept of gods only being as strong as the sum of the believers who truly believe in them (as opposed to those who merely profess belief) is hilarious in itself, and that's before things get properly started. "Small Gods" is a satirical work of art. ]]>
bookshelves: discworld-books
One of Sir Terry's finest books, "Night Watch" is an exceptional Discworld novel and a clear indicator of a much darker turn for the series as a whole (and all the better for it). More than any other before it, this book explores the character of Sam Vimes in depth and allows us to understand his motivations and what drives him. "Night Watch" just goes to show how far Vimes has come from the mildly comical drunkard he was in the first of the Watch books.
The knowing nods towards the "real world", from Les Mis to Rembrandt, are a true pleasure, as are the explorations into the roots of certain minor characters like Reg Shoe (first seen in "Reaper Man"). Pure, unalloyed pleasure. ]]>
It's very hard to write a review for "Soul Mountain", mostly because the book itself is very hard to read. It's the sort of book where, upon completion, one feels a great sense of achievement. Not only that, but the final chapter of the book is one of the most insightful, thought provoking piece of writing I have ever read.
Don't be put off by Gao's style or his frequent switching between third, first and even second person; just enjoy the ride and follow it wherever he takes you. The reward is worth it, even if the journey itself can feel difficult at times. ]]>
An earthquake leads to a hazardous bio-chem spillage in an underground laboratory, unleashing the horror of a rampaging mutant beast that preys on the survivors of the quake as they fight for survival under the debris.
I have a hazy recollection of this book, as I read it on a camping trip many, many years ago, but I do recall enjoying it a lot. It's a pity that the book appears to have gone out of print now, but I think you can still find a few second hand editions knocking around on eBay. Worth a read if you can find a copy. ]]>
bookshelves: top-10-books
Trying to combine the twin themes of sex and philosophy into a single novel whilst maintaining credibility and remaining eminently readable is a feat that I have seen no other author accomplish besides Kundera in his magnificent "Unbearable Lightness of Being". This book is a one-off, the sort of book that lingers for a lifetime. It is hauntingly beautiful, wittily observed and intellectually powerful. A must-read for anyone who wants to find that one book that will change their whole perspective on life. ]]>
bookshelves: comic-books
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bookshelves: currently-reading, thriller-books
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Palindrome Mordnilap
took the never-ending book quiz.
| questions answered: | 272 |
| correct: | 199 (73.2%) |
| skipped: | 92 |
| best streak: | 8 |
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bookshelves: philosophy-books, top-10-books
Few philosophers have had as big an impact throughout history as Kongzi (known to the English-speaking world as Confucius). His teachings influenced entire dynasties throughout East Asia, though none more so than in his home country, China. To understand Chinese culture and Chinese values, you need to understand Kongzi, and the Analects (or "Lunyu" in Chinese) are the heart of what he taught. They are a collection of his sayings gathered together by his disciples, ranging over all kinds of issues from politics and relationships to manners and good conduct. Family and education form the fundamental core of Confucian ethics, and from these seminal teachings the various schools of Confucian philosophy grew.
Today, in spite of the Cultural Revolution's direct assault on Confucian philosophy, Confucius himself is still revered in China. Confucian academies are being set up throughout the world as a direct result of the emphasis on learning and education prevalent in the Analects. If you read just one book on Chinese thought, this should be the one. ]]>