Friday, January 16, 2009

Currently Reading

It's four degrees this morning. I won't be lingering out in the barns today. It'll be a matter of doing the basics quickly and getting back inside somewhere.

I've knitted a pair of socks (pink) which I'll try out today to keep my feet warm. 'Been writing, reading, sorting, and catching up on little computer- and telephone-related jobs for the Farmers' group. I'll probably also work on lesson plans for the semi-advanced cheesemaking workshop which I'd like to offer in the next couple of months. Some baking is in order. That'll warm up the kitchen.

Anyway, it's come to my attention that there are actually people in this world who care to read about what I'm reading currently. I've just finished John Grisham's, The Innocent Man which I highly recommend. John Grisham's books are books I read in a matter of a few days. I'm sure I could read one in a day if I did not have other responsibilities.

If you read The Innocent Man, you'll probably become aware, quickly, of the widespread injustice in our "justice system." It'll make you mad. That will make you warmer. This is true crime, not fiction.

Right now, I'm reading Frank McCourt's, Teacher Man: A Memoir. This book will warm your heart. There is something so engaging in McCourt's humor and intelligent writing that makes it enjoyable. He manages to inject a bit of pathos while making you smile. Would this be a wry smile, then?

I was a teacher for many years, and I relate to some of the comments about the strange system of American education and the little regard the public has for teachers. It's ironic that good teachers are so little appreciated. Actually, I was surprised that teaching is something I'm good at. I find that I'm learning as I'm teaching. I dream about it sometimes, but would hesitate for a long time before considering taking it on again.

The most hopeful thing I found in this book is that McCourt did not publish his first book Angela's Ashes: A Memoir until he was 66 years old. His second book, 'Tis: A Memoir was published three years later. There's time for me yet!

Well, as I finish writing this, I notice it is up to 8 degrees. Time to suit up and get out to the barn. Today, I think I'll wear one of every color and make sure nothing matches.

Ta ta.

1 comment:

gingerhillery@mac.com said...

McCourt is one of my favorites. I have not read Teacher Man. It has been awhile since I read a Grisham novel. I have never read one I didn't like. The other day i read the Guernsey Potato Peel Pie Literary Society or something like that. It was a quick read, but much better than I anticipated. Set in post-Occupation Channel Islands. What is your book going to be covering when you get around to writing it? And when are you going to offer those art classes?