Don't worry. There's no third taste.
Happy Friday.
1.4.15
Currently Reading: A Review
Masterfully written by Peter Brown, this monograph is a very satisfying read. Brown explores the personal aspects and philosophical underpinnings of Augustine's life and beliefs. Especially helpful is his discussion of the different strands of philosophy that influenced the intellectual and cultural elite of Late Antique society. Brown's prose is a delight, using simple yet beautiful sentences to communicate complex issues. This book is a must for anyone interested in Late Antique society and religion, church history, or Augustine himself. The author of this post, is, however, woefully behind in her perusal of Brown's work due to her absorption in the following volumes.
Dinosaur Roar
Co-authored by Paul and Henrietta Stickland, this book explores the physical and behavioral characteristics of dinosaurs. Speed of movement, size, and demeanor (fierce vs. meek, sweet vs. grumpy) of this extinct species is discussed with pointed description and vivid illustration. Indeed, the glossy, full-color nature of the pictures is one of the great attributes of this book. More discussion of social interaction between dinosaurs would be appreciated, but overall, a highly recommended volume for those interested in the scaly creatures. Content best absorbed when read repetitively.
The Going to Bed Book
This monograph, by Sandra Boynton, explores the nighttime behaviors of several different animal species. Her thesis is clearly presented: several species(lions, pigs, rabbits, a nondescript lumpy brown creature, moose, etc.) practice the same nocturnal rituals before dormancy. These rituals include communal bathing, the choice of appropriately-fitting pajamas, pre-slumber exercise, and finally, the embrace of sleep. Regrettably, there are several logical holes in Ms. Boynton's thesis. She does not explain how such a variety of species has managed to gather together on a large boat, or why the animals are on the boat on the first place. She also does not address why the animals are exercising in their pajamas or why it is necessary for them to do so right before bed. These issues aside, the book is a pleasant, if brief, read.
Authored by Alice Schertle, this book explores social interactions between a little blue truck and a group of farm animals (perhaps representative of the relationship between technology and the natural world). Schertle suggests that the two do not merely coexist but enjoy the presence of the other in a relationship akin to friendship. This friendship and the cooperative nature between the two (The Little Blue Truck and The Animals), is put to the test with the arrival of The Dump Truck, a large technological being who dismisses those who have little agency (The Animals). The narrative tension is resolved when, in a crisis, The Animals come to the aid of The Little Blue Truck (and, as a result, The Dump Truck), thus signaling to the larger truck that mutual cooperation and kindness is the key to a functioning society. Unlike many books, this one is pleasant to read ad nauseam.
The Search for Modern China
Jonathan D. Spence begins his history of China with the fall of the Ming dynasty and traces the empire's evolution until the present day. Spence discusses many dynastic turnovers and cultural developments in a manner that is comprehensible and enjoyable, if not readily pronounceable. The Search for Modern China is an excellent introduction to a history that is daunting to the novice. This book deserves more attention than the author of this post is currently giving it.
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