Saturday, January 2, 2010

My GLBT Reading Challenge for 2010


I have many books on my shelf (unread) that fall under the gay literature heading. This year I've decided to read and review one each month as part of the GLBT Reading Challenge. I'll do my best to find books that inspire and enlighten.

By reviewing twelve books in this category I'll qualify for Rainbow status. Very appropriate for someone living in Hawaii.

First up in January is Out In The Garden by Dean Riddle. According to the book jacket, the author dispenses hands-on gardening advice and talks about growing up gay in South Carolina.

February's pick will be Hit By A Farm: How I Learned To Stop Worrying and Love The Barn, by Catherine Friend. This follows the adventures of a lesbian couple new to farming.

Shakespeare's Sonnets by Samuel Park will be my March title. Set at Harvard in the 1940's, the book follows a scholarship student in love with poetry, with being gay, and with stirring up trouble. I'm looking forward to seeing how Shakespeare is involved.

What happens after March? Stay tuned and I'll post more titles as I find them in my library.

Thanks to Amanda at The Zen Leaf and to Jen for organizing this challenge.

Be sure to comment along the way and join the discussion.

5 comments:

  1. Thanks for joining us! Can't wait to see your reviews. :)

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  2. I might as well join this one since I've been reading books under GLBT tag all along! :)

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  3. Matt--I hope you'll join the GLBT challenge. It would be great to have you in the group. Amanda--thanks again for hosting. My first review should be up in the next few days.

    Aloha from Rob
    Books Are Like Candy Corn

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  4. Hi Rob,

    I like this idea! I have too many sadly unread books on my own shelves. But if you're open to including "new" books as well as old, I have a novel coming out this month that might fit the bill: _The Lunatic, the Lover, and the Poet_.

    It's a prequel to _Hamlet_based on the premise that the prince was actually in love with Horatio, who narrates the tale. The plot is inspired by Shakespeare's sonnets, so it might be a fun comparison to your March selection.

    I'm a writer who grew up on Maui, now living in Portland, Oregon. You can find out more about me, or the book, at my website: http://www.MyrlinAHermes.com

    Aloha,
    Myrlin

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  5. Aloha Myrlin,

    The truth is I still buy books. I think I need to add yours to my collection. You're right that it sounds perfect with the book I'm reviewing in March. I love to act in my spare time and Shakespeare is a favorite. Okay, I'm weak when I see a book I want. I checked Barnes and Noble today and they are offering a 5% discount prior to the book's release this month.

    That's interesting you grew up on Maui. I see from your profile that you went to Reed. When I worked in higher education in Oregon I was on campus many times.

    Thanks for stopping by and I look forward to your book.

    Aloha from Rob
    Books Are Like Candy Corn

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Aloha! Thanks for taking time to talk story. Your comment will be posted soon.

Ho'ola'i na manu i ke aheahe

"The birds poise quietly in the gentle breeze."
Said of those who are at peace with the world, undisturbed and contented.