T.G.I.F. It’s a horrible cliche, the kind of thing that some marketing jackass invented and then injected into society like a virus. For awhile, it was used to push family friendly programming on ABC. For many of us, the phrase conjures horrifying images of Dave Coulier or that guy in the office who sends chain emails. But after the week I’ve had, the term, in all its loathsome and hackneyed splendor, applies. On to the links:
- A photographic tour of some of the world’s most interesting bookstores. Not pictured: Vroman’s. (via The Morning News)
- For those following the Tournament of Books, you must read Max’s “behind the curtain” look at the judging process.
- Piggybacking on the latest Facebook meme, Avery posts Kevin Brockmeier’s 10 Favorite Books and asks what are your 10 Favorite Books. I will post mine there shortly, so you should click over to see them.
- And finally, click over to Mediabistro to check out this video shot at the recent Granta party at Idlewild Books in NYC. It’s not often that I wish I lived in New York (I mean, my neighborhood smells like jasmine, and I frequently complain that it’s “too sunny” outside, so…) but this is one of those times, because I maybe could’ve gone to that party. Anyway, the video features several people talking about 2666, and I think all of them have really great thoughts on it. For more on this fabulous party, check out the Granta website, where they have photos of literary types like Joshua Ferris and Sloane Crosley and Maud Newton.
Here’s to never having another week like this again!
{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
Eww, too sunny. That sounds AWFUL. And jasmine! Eeek. Like living in a perfume bottle. Who can take so much beauty, Patrick, who? But you are good to try.
Can’t wait to see your list. I’ll post mine, too.
You’ve had a crappy week, too? What is it with this week for booksellers and bookish folks? I say we all create a Summer Insitute that’s purely devoted to booksellers gathering to socialize, relax, and then have a few days of a “reading retreat”. Sort of like a social-only form of Winter Institute.
Thanks for the link to Kevin Brockmeier’s favorite reads. He’s one of the absolute best writers out there!
Michele,
I had a garbage week. The idea of a reading retreat sounds just right to me. I would also approve of an exercise retreat (I haven’t had time to do much of anything lately) or a drinking retreat.
By the way, if you’re not familiar with Avery Anthology and their fabulous editorial staff, let me introduce you to Emma. She is an editor there and often writes for their very fine blog.
I say we have a retreat with all three things included!
I hope you have the weekend off and get a few much needed days of R&R.
Hi Emma! Patrick, thanks for the introduction. How did I not even know about The Avery Anthology? Just went to the website and I’m hooked. Must buy a copy now….
Patrick, you are a mensch and a half. Lovely to meet you, Michele. I always knew my over-commenting on the Vroman’s blog would pay off.
Cheers.