Patricia

I have so many wonderful books on my iPOD that it distresses me to click on one that doesn't work for me. I am an eclectic reader, but don't like books where I don't connect with the characters, find the story dull or repetitive, and worst of all, can't wait until it is finished so I can move on to the next book. This was one of those books that just did not engage me.

One of the things I like about Pat Conroy's story telling is you fall in love with his characters - even if you don't like them. When the story is over, you feel an emptyness, a longing to have them back in your life again. My favorite Conroy book in that respect is Prince of Tides (the book, not the movie). I couldn't stop listening even when I was so tired I should have been asleep. Lords of Discipline is the same - a compelling tale, especially when you realize that at least parts of it are autobiographical. I went to university at UC Berkeley during the same time frame that the Lords were attending "The Institute" - an amazing contrast in life choices.

Stieg Larson spins a great story. In fact, several great stories in this wonderful novel. The characters come to life and provide you with great entertainment. Some of them you will miss once the novel comes to an end, but I understand that the "Girl with the Dragon Tatoo" returns to us in Larson's sequel. Can't wait to read it.

Chris Buckley describes what it is like to grow up with famous, eccentric, and,yes, difficult parents. But he doesn't whine and he doesn't complain. Most importantly he doesn't blame. He simply tells the story of his Mum and Pup in their glory years and in their decline. It felt like an honest, loving story of his relationship with his parents and trials of losing them both over a short period of time. I loved this book. I could feel the emotion, but I could sense Buckly trying to be objective. It worked. Read it. You will like it.