Switching it Up

So, I've decided that it makes more sense to start from end and work my way up. Ulysses seems a better way to end, I think. With that in mind, I picked up #100 on the list, The Magnificent Ambersons by Booth Tarkington.

I love this book so far. I'm only about 40 pages in, but I'm hooked. The book was published in 1918, and went on to win the Pulitzer. The story, so far as I can tell, is that of a family of great fortune and their town. Much of the first 40 pages is dedicated to (hilariously) recounting the fashions and trends of the day. If I'm right, the book will now begin focusing on George Minafer, the grandson of the man responsible for putting the Ambersons on the map.

Now, I love a good saga and a good laugh. The Magnificent Ambersons feels like a book that will offer both. I also hear, from Ashley that Orson Welles made a great movie of the novel, which we will surely watch as soon as I finish the book. I'd like to try to watch any movies that come from the books on this list...like a little reward at the end of the book.

It's challenging for me to write about books. I feel like I either sound like a 7th grader writing a book report or like a spazzed out valley girl in my enthusiasm. I'm just going to go with it, though, and see if I can be authentic in this assignment - I'd love to feel more competent in writing (and talking, really) about books.