Wolf In White Van, John Darnielle
Novel written by singer/songwriter, John Darnielle, of The Mountain Goats. I’m looking forward to his second book out this fall. I went to his reading at Busboys and Poets in DC earlier this year.
Ready Player One, Ernest Cline
Fun science fiction novel set in a dystopian near-future. Some 80s nostalgia throughout. Main characters take refuge in alternate digital reality - seems to be a recurring theme these days. Spielberg is making the movie.
History Of Western Philosophy, Bertrand Russell
A classic. I read about half and listened to the other half. Nearly every section prompts me to add a title or two to my current "to read" list.
The Grand Design, Stephen Hawking
Fairly short and and an easy read.
Complete Works, Arthur Rimbaud
At some point, I made a list of the poets Bob Dylan had mentioned in interviews. This was next on the list.
A Deeper Blue, Robert Earl Hardy
Biography of Townes Van Zandt - one of my favorite songwriters. An outstanding, inspiring songwriter but also a alcoholic, drug addict who left his family, cheated, but eventually cleaned up.
Born Standing Up, Steve Martin
This is the second time I've read this. I’m not a particularly big Steve Martin fan, but his career was remarkable. His approach to forging a singular career in show business - despite not fitting into the traditional roles of standup comedian, actor, etc is inspiring. I think anyone can find something inspiring and relevant to their lives in this book.
Hamlet, William Shakespeare
Four hundred years old and as engrossing as anything.
