Audiobook

I listened to this very brief audiobook (about 3 hours) in 15-30 minute increments over a few days, while falling asleep. This is a short audiobook and performed very well by its author. Carrie Fisher was such a treasure. One of the early figures in my life in a lot of ways, via Leia. I have a framed portrait of Leia (artist Mike Mitchell, via Mondo) in my living room and think of her a bit as a patron saint. I had no idea for years that another figure of early childhood, Aggie Cromwell of Halloweentown, was her mother, Debbie Reynolds. ...

I’ve read Tom Sawyer several times over the years, physically and audibly. This is my second time listening to the audiobook as read by Nick Offerman, who seems born to read Twain. While I think years ago I’d have given this five stars, I find it is not my favorite Twain by a long shot. It is fun, and funny, but nothing to me compared to Connecticut Yankee. Anyway, I listened to this while falling asleep at night and it was perfect for that. I cannot recommend more strongly Offerman’s readings of Twain. ...

Disclaimer: If you read this book, I suggest not paying for it. OSC’s views should not be rewarded. Visit your local library. I remember checking this book out from the library, probably I was in 7th or 8th grade. I’d just finished Ender’s Game and enjoyed that. I was probably unprepared for how different Speaker for the Dead is, and yet it was immediately preferable to me. I love the immense empathy and search for understanding within, and the warmth that is so often there. ...

I love Anthony Bourdain. When I moved to Chicago the first time, in 2013, I’d put on Parts Unknown late at night in my dorm and I’d fall asleep watching that show. I’ve turned it, and other Bourdain shows, on as comfort watches many times in the 13 years between then and now. I appreciate and respect his worldview and what seemed like his mission in those shows, which felt like intentional breaking down of barriers and celebration of diversity and how diversity can be a great unifying thing. ...