Time is our era’s most precious luxury. Mention summer, and some people think g & t by a beach. But most readers of this site, I’d wager, have a list of good books they’re hoping to read when things slow down.
For the first time in ages, I’m facing a few weeks without a list of books I’ve committed to reading for professional reasons. The most recent books were for a literary profile of Dany Laferrière, just finished for The Walrus, and though reading several works by one writer is a great experience, I’m mighty glad it’s over. I’m hungry for other sensibilities, looking for suggestions.
So, send me your summer reading list and I’ll post it in this space. Meanwhile, here’s what I’ve already tossed into my suitcase:
- Mark Kingwell’s essays on art and philosophy, Opening Gambits (2008). The subject of art and criticism is much on my mind these days. I wonder if there’s any space left in our culture for true criticism, or is public chatter about art destined to be either promotion or autopsy.
- The Savage Detectives by Roberto Bolano, the first of a handful of great books by the Chilean-born novelist to gain international recognition, it’s the last of his work I have yet to read. I read 2666 last year. It is a masterpiece, surely a novel (actually five) that will continue to have an impact on how the genre is seen by writers.
- Zadie Smith’s book of essays, Changing My Mind. Started for fun this winter and set aside.
- Finally, Miguel Syjuco’s novel Ilustrado – just out. In fact I’d intended to read it this summer but got started early and couldn’t stop. A wonderful, complex novel full of rich characters and ideas that make you stop turning pages and think.
Now send me your list with a short explanation and I’ll post the results in this space soon.
Happy reading!
Marianne@roverarts.com
