Books

WHAT I AM READING

BOOKS (All links to Barnes & Noble)

The Fort of Nine Towers - By Qais Akbar Omar

Afghanistan is a fascinating and tragic country full of contradictions.  While most people, Americans certainly, consider the people of Afghanistan as only a few steps up from barbarism, there is an incredibly rich cultural history.  One of my favorite images from a book on current Afghanistan is an author describing how an Afghani fighter, who would carelessly shed the blood of anyone on the slightest pretext, would cry and recite poetry over a flower. In this story which spans a period of time from the Russian occupation through the Taliban and American war, a young boy from an affluent Afghani family comes to manhood amidst shattering tragedy to his family and his country.  Within this world the love of his family shines strong and provides a foundation for his own resilience and strength in the face of overwhelming odds.  This is a rich and compelling story that illustrates the underlying strength and humanity that resides in the Afghani soul, and makes you believe that should this country overcome its recent past that there is hope for a better future.

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Percy Jackson Series - By Rick Riordan
Kane Chronicles - by Rick Riordan
Heroes of Olympus - By Rick Riordan

As a lover of Greek Mythology, heck, Mythology in general, these books, though intended for junior audiences, (read Harry Potter), prove an entertaining quick read for adults as well.  Again, a junior misfit protagonist, plucky uber-intelligent female side-kick, a really odd misfit best friend, (the satyr), Camp Counselors, (professors), live and grow up in a whole world hidden in plain sight, a world that is at risk from an evil all powerful antagonist.  Sound familiar?  While it may be stock stuff now that Mr Potter has conquered the world, Mr Riordan's twists on Greek Mythology and its universe, are clever and the plots engaging. His Percy Jackson and Heroes of Olympus chronicles contain many of the same characters and same world he has created; his Kane Chronicles takes the same plots and transfers them to an Egyptian Mythology.  There is a short story available online that combines the two storylines briefly and has a hint of possible combinations in the future.  The nice thing is, even if you are non-conversant in these mythologies, they are explained and told while you read so you never feel lost.  As someone who grew up on these tales there were a few inaccuracies on names within the Greek mythological world, but I overlooked them.  Overall it's an easy way to introduce old stories to new audiences, and I can only approve of that.  If you want a quick read and an easy escape, and miss Mr. Potter and Friends, I would recommend this series.     

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