From Edward Sawtell to Sherlock Holmes...

Readings: Ok, so what haven't I been reading these past few months? Books: The Story of Edgar Sawtell, The Help, Dracula, The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, and I am sure that I am forgetting some. I won't mention the books that I use in my classroom as reads here, though I do reread them every year. I always seem to find new things to mention to my classes. I find it difficult to read the local papers. Not only do I get aggravated by what is going on in the world of politics, and local government but I find all the petty arguing that happens over so many things in the community distressing. Why can't people just agree to disagree and then work toward doing what is best for everyone? They spend more time trying to prove themselves above others that the problems just get bigger and bigger until no one can fix them. I guess you could call this my Ranting as well.

I do want to discuss the merits of a couple of the books listed above. The Story of Edgar Sawtell is a MUST read. Don't let the reviews stop you, especially if they say something about the book being Hamlet-like. While it does follow the Hamlet plot, it has so much more to offer a reader. This is one I didn't want to end, but while I knew how it would turn out, I couldn't stop reading.

The Help is another read that was gripping and telling of the civil rights movement. Told from several points of view, this book will take the reader into the lives of several women at the beginning of civil rights in the heart of the south. Many times during the reading of this book I found myself on the edge of my seat, holding my breath, fearing for the safety of the women telling their stories. I applauded their actions and cringed at the treatment they received at the hands of their employers. Humans are humans no matter their color, sexual preference or religious beliefs and deserve to be treated as such with dignity and respect.

I went to the movies, another 'read' here was Sherlock Holmes directed by Guy Ritchie. I found the story, and the film captivating. Enough so, that I "purchased" The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes for my kindle. I wanted to know if Ritchie was true to the character created by Sr. Arthur Conan Doyle. I was quite surprised that he in fact was. While some of the action needed in today's world for movies was a bit much, the characters and words were in fact based on the characters created by Doyle, even the boxing (my husband wondered about this). I hope there is a second Holmes in the works. I enjoyed this film. I have enjoyed reading the adventures that I did purchase the complete works for my reading pleasure.

Revelations: Even in this crazy world we live in there are things to find enjoyment in doing and experiencing. I love reading and I like the occasional movie. Apparently I am in a pretty good mood today that my ranting isn't so biting as some of the others have been. I guess this is a good thing, though I am sure that right around the corner there will be something to set me off. Until next time..."I will choose a path that's clear/I will choose free will." (Peart)