fresh canvas

I'm not a painter, but today has a fresh canvas feel to it. Little on the calendar, and though the to-do lists are long, most of it is not terribly urgent. This morning's Pioneer Press has a book review of The Coffins of Little Hope, which is already waiting on my nook. Might have to move it to the top of the virtual pile. But first, I've started Ann Patchett's State of Wonder, and simply because I loved Bel Canto, I'm eager to get deeper into her new novel.  (And wondering if I should check out SparkNotes on Heart of Darkness - I think some reviews referenced that, but I don't recall enjoying that college reading experience, so never mind.) From the reviews I've read, I expect both books mentioned here to believably combine memorable characters with unexpected events in Nebraska, Eden Prairie, and the Amazon.  When odd blends like that work, I love 'em!

dog books

Today would be a good day to start my next book group novel, The Art of Racing in the Rain. Aside from the fact that I'll be trying to lose a pound an hour before my college reunion this weekend, I'm just not that excited by a book with a dog on the cover.  I like dogs. Really. We once had the best dog ever and I still wish for another. But dog books, or dog-narrated books do nothing for me.  (Have I ever read one?  Probably not.) I'll keep you posted.