Brisingr by Christopher Paolini (#32, Young Adult)

I was disappointed by what was supposed to be the third and final installment of the Inheritance trilogy. I guess I shouldn't have been surprised to learn halfway through the book that there was too much to fit in and that instead of finishing the series with Brisingr, Christopher Paolini will be writing a fourth book. 

I suppose I shouldn't be annoyed by this but for some reason I am. I struggled to maintain interest in this book and was actually hoping to be done with the series. I am not overly attached to these characters and sadly I find Paolini's writing skills to be lacking. Will I be able to plod through another book to get the answers? Maybe. 

The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas (#31, Classic)

Finally, a book that is not of the self-help/young adult category. I have been reading too many of those lately and thought it would be good to read something of substance. Enter Alexandre Dumas' The Count of Monte Cristo.  I really enjoyed this classic masterpiece, despite knowing the story before reading the book. I saw the movie back in 2003--I remember the day exactly because it was spring break freshman year and my new boyfriend called while we were watching the movie. I took the call and never finished the movie. Needless to say, I was very eager to find out how it would all end. Would the Count get his revenge? Would he find his lost love and find happiness? Would he confront his enemies and repay them for ruining his life? 

I did notice one thing while reading my first Dumas novel. He uses the phrase, "blow out his brains" quite a bit. Anytime one of the characters ponders suicide, the only way it is referred to is as "blowing out" one's brains. Perhaps there was a problem with the translator and in French this phrase sounds better. 

Angela's Ashes by Frank McCourt (#26, Nonfiction)

I'm not really sure what the correct adjective to describe the book would be.... amazing just seems wrong because to me it implies more happiness.... and well, heartbreaking doesn't fit either because although at times it certainly broke my heart, the book made me laugh almost as much as it made me cringe in sadness.... unbelievable...does that work? well, for me it does, but I assume that there are many people in the world who can relate very personally to the story....

Maybe I will come up with the perfect word eventually, but wow, this book is quite the memoir. I think the part that got to me the most is at the beginning when he is retelling his childhood and starting at the age of 4 he was already acting in a parental capacity to his 3 (yes 3!!!) younger brothers. All I could think about was my 4 year old nephew... there is no way!!!

Once again, thanks Mom, thanks Dad, for the food, the clothes, the house, the education and for making me aware of the fact that I had it good.