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Book It
Lest you think that the last book I read before picking up Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows was High Fidelity some nine months ago – I’m a remarkably uncommitted reader considering my profession, but not that bad – I’d like to fill in some gaps. Here are three authors whose books I’ve read in the time between Hornby and Rowling: -
Hallow, Goodbye
For a decade now, much has been made of whether or not the Harry Potter series has resurrected the art of reading. And while data suggests that kids are turning right back to their technology after reading Harry Potter, the fact that a seven-book fantasy series could so captivate the world is a testament to how tremendously entertaining the books are. The series comes to an end with Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, a book that simultaneously justifies the anticipation and points out the greatest weaknesses of the series and author J.K. Rowling. Caution, all ye who have not read the book: There be mild spoilers ahead. -
You Can’t Stop the Beat
Appreciating Hairspray, the movie musical based on the Broadway show based on John Waters’ 1988 movie, begins with quickly getting over the fact that John Travolta is dressed up like a woman. The casting of the world’s second favorite ambiguously sexually orientated Scientologist is not a stunt but a faithful recreation of the circumstances of Waters’ casting the drag queen Divine as the lead character’s mother in his original film. The sooner that you can stop giggling solely because Travolta wears a wig – something the people behind me at the theatre could not manage – the sooner you realize that the best moments in Hairspray have little to do with Travolta’s wardrobe. -
Meet and Greet
It seems that the first position in my “people I’d like to meet” section of my MySpace page is charmed. The first resident of that spot was Steve Burns; I met him twice this summer. His replacement? Matt Nathanson, who you’ve already read about me meeting (evidence at right). Now I need a third honoree. Who should I put in that place, improving my chances of an encounter? Keira Knightley could move up one spot, but I’m afraid I’d pass out if I actually met her. Also worth noting: all jokes about meeting a dateable girl will result in your immediate banishment from the Internet. I talked to Al Gore about it, and he’s on board. So beware. -
10,000 Strong…and Growing
Last night the Phillies got a head start on their next 10,000 losses, losing 10-3 in a game that I’m sure nobody stayed up to watch. I’m not here to philosophize on why this group seemed destined to be the ones to reach the dubious record, or why 10,000 losses is such an important mark. Instead, my contribution to the 10,000 losses rhetoric comes courtesy of my friend John – a Yankee fan but Phillies sympathizer – who sent me the following text message this morning.
Archive: July, 2007