The Manuel's Book Club

or just the books that I've come to enjoy.

WATERSHIP DOWN by Richard Adams

This is, at least as I believe, the first novel I've read. It's also one I've read at least three times already. Can't really put my thumb on it why I enjoy it so much, to the point I would buy the hardcover edition. I rememeber watching with a passion the movie when it came on television. I suppose there are deep means behind everything in the novel but if you just read it because it's there, that is perhaps the best way to enjoy it. A simple adventure.

REDWALL SERIES by Brian Jacques

Not one of these books have I been able to sit though. That is because I've either: popped up in sursprise, read at great speeds to find out what happens, or thrown the book across the room in anger when something happens. The characters are real. Heros are not these tough skined beings that no harm can happen to. Evil is not defeated without heavy costs. Just because there are animals, does not mean the world is sweet and wonderful. I only wish I can do as well.

THE BEAST WITHIN by Adam Douglas

A silly book really to anyone else. A serious look into the history of werewolves. Takes all the magic and fear out of it all, but then replaces it. At least it appears to be researched well, not that I'm no judge.

Anyways, it now sits near my bed, gathering dust.

CROW AND WEASEL by Barry Lopes

I first hear the audio reading for the camp naturalist. I was entised to read the book. It is second in rank of books that I gained insight from. First being the Bible.

Not quite what you would expect in modern terms of an adventure. More of the accounts of two young male's journey's. Found myself quoting the book a few times when I was contiplating something. I have the hardbound version because of this.

THE PRINCE by Nicolo Machiavelli

It was required reading for a history class I took at Heidelberg. I didn't think much of it. In fact, I thought some of the ideas were foolish.

It wasn't until later, using the pun, that it hit me like a rock. Then it all made sense. Ah, I said, very enlighting. I understand and accept these rules and ideas.

THE COMPLETE BARTENDER by Robyn M. Feller

Not only is this book well organized, and has LOTS OF MIXTURES, it's fun to read.

Always wanted to know how to make some of these mixes, as well as to know what is in these mixes. Pick one up and play bartender roulette. Thumb though the pages then randomly call out a drink to see if the bartender knows how to make it. Tip if they know how, shout if they do it bad.

I am no critic. I have no formal studies to give an academic responce to all of the selections above. They are just ones that I've come to enjoy, ones that I hope that people will pick up a copy and see for themselves. If at any time you run across the addresses of the authors above, please drop me a line. I would enjoy writing to them and thanking them.

More to come.