As noted in the last post, the cold weather has left little or no inspiration. Even the title of the book I am currently reading is coincidence, not by design. Thus, I cop out with recent marginalia.
- Although the lack of ambition includes reduced devotion to reading, I came across another book challenge I might consider. This one is based on the Neustadt International Prize for Literature, sponsored in part by World Literature Today, to which I subscribed at the end of last year.
- Speaking of international literature, the first catalog of Open Letter, the new publishing enterprise for international literature, has been announced. As an aside, I note the catalog indicates Open Letter’s books are going to be distributed by the University of Nebraska Press in Lincoln.
- SF Site has announced it’s reader’s choice awards for 2008. I’ve read three, two of which I voted for in the polling, but haven’t read the top two, both of which are fantasy titles.
- Two of my favorite local bloggers have prime rants. Jesus The Marketer makes Commander Other a bit snarky while Scott H. takes aim at certain tax preparers (I consider the latter a fully legitimate target should I “accidentally” lose control of my vehicle).
- Despite his feelings, even Commander Other must be interested in this auction of historical artifacts.
- And not to stray too far from horrible marketing practices, must we corrupt children’s books?
- I never would have thought that there was a “smell of space.” (Via.)
- Finally, the 2008 Tournament of Books is underway. (Via.)
Poor man wanna be rich,
Rich man wanna be king
And a king ain’t satisfied
Till he rules everything
“Badlands,” Bruce Springsteen, Darkness on the Edge of Town
