Reviews in Review – September Books Edition

Weed Man: The Remarkable Journey of Jimmy Divine
By John McCaslin
An account of the unbelievable exploits of a Jimmy Moree – a law-abiding citizen turned million-dollar drug trafficker, who, amidst sometimes unbelievable, hilarious and escalating circumstances, risked life and limb to both make – and give away – a fortune.

I can’t say that I read this book by choice. It was recommended to me by a friend. I also can’t say that I enjoyed it. Maybe it’s my fault. Maybe I’ve already watched so many drug-smuggling-themed movies, so this offered me nothing new. A mellow guy starts running drugs, gets rich, gets over it, quits and now lives his life. Okay, anything else you’d like to add? No? Sigh.

A Wolf at the Table: A Memoir of My Father
By Augusten Burroughs

I enjoyed this book way more than I thought I would. I say that because after reading and watching the film adaption of Running with Scissors, I decided that Burroughs wasn’t for me – I guess I just don’t dig his style. However, the extremely dark nature of WATT pulled me in almost immediately and in the end the creepy and sometimes horrifying father figure changed my opinion of the author (slightly). It’s quick, it’s scary – it’d be a great October read.

Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man: What Men Really Think About Love, Relationships, Intimacy, and Commitment
By Steve Harvey

“Women should listen to Steve Harvey when it comes to what a good man is about. Steve Harvey dispenses a lot of fabulous information about men. It’s more than the average man will usually tell you. Steve Harvey will give it up.” — Aretha Franklin

Jessica read this book to me and since then I have referenced it almost once a day. Not only are there some incredible quotes, but Harvey has some pretty practical things to say. I know, I know. Look at the cover – you’re not going to pick this one up, are you? Well fine, but know that you are missing out on some great memories.

For example, a few of us brought this book to Mimi’s Café and read it while enjoying a light dinner. The waiter – was his name Joe? – overheard us and couldn’t help but join in the conversation. The result: a close look into the life of our waiter, a lesson learned about why women shouldn’t have to pay for things and an understanding of the “Three P’s.” It’s actually really great.

The Elegance of the Hedgehog
By Muriel Barbey

I came across this book while blindly searching for a new read. I needed something and I needed it fast. So, I looked at some best-seller lists online, walked to Borders on my lunch break and – VOILA! – there it was. The Elegance of the Hedgehog. When I reached for it I had no idea that this book…this book with its awful cover, this book about two women, this book that became a publishing sensation in France, this book that I never wanted to end, this book that has already passed its fiftieth reprint, this book that did end, this book that has been adapted for film with a release date of 2008/2009, this book that was written with the beauty of a camellia… I had no idea that this book would change my life.

As soon as I turned the final page I wanted to begin again. I could honestly talk about TEOTHH all day long. So, if you’re interested please, please, PLEASE go pick up a copy and let’s talk. Everyone deserves to read this. Everyone.