Friday, June 13, 2014

Strange Case of Edward Gorey

The Strange Case of Edward GoreyThe Strange Case of Edward Gorey by Alexander Theroux
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

While I find Edward Gorey very interesting and like his books and artwork, this book is as much about the author (Theroux) and his opinions as it is about Gorey.  After awhile, while the anecdotes were interesting, the style just grated.  I'd recommend other works about Gorey first.


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Monday, May 12, 2014

The Cavendish Home for Boys and Girls


The Cavendish Home for Boys and GirlsThe Cavendish Home for Boys and Girls by Claire Legrand
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

A quick read.  Dark, creepy atmosphere and topics that address some of kids' deepest fears.  BUT, at the end, I am still thinking that this was overall Stephen King's It -lite.  :/  That being said, it wasn't bad, though I never really got into it.  I think in it's place, I'd recommend Neil Gaiman's Coraline as similar & much better (doesn't seem like so much of a knock-off).  Also, it's for older readers (9? 10?).


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Wednesday, April 09, 2014

King Solomon's Ring

King Solomon's Ring: New Light on Animals' WaysKing Solomon's Ring: New Light on Animals' Ways by Konrad Lorenz
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Humorous and earnest. I really enjoyed Lorenz's adventures with and observations of the animals in his life. I think that for his time (post-WWI and pre-WWII), he was very interested in animal welfare. The book is only dated in that some of the attitudes have shifted toward favoring animal rights and that DNA has changed the study of some animals (like dogs/wolves). Very enjoyable read!

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