Sunday, January 10, 2010

Sunday Salon: Dealing with Guilt



I keep getting messages from Library Thing that I owe them a book review. Several months ago they sent me a complimentary copy of Dragon House by John Shors for my opinion.

While I did sign up for their Early Reviewer program, their frequent reminders made me want to read the book even less. At the same time my Catholic guilt set in and I wanted to be free from the obligation.

The only thing left to do is pick up the book and read. After the first chapter last night I'm hooked on the story. That's a good feeling.

The main character (Iris) has decided to return to Vietnam and continue the work her father started. She's a book reviewer in Chicago (how perfect) and is taking with her a disabled Iraq veteran who is a friend from childhood. The opening scene with her father dying struck a chord. It was beautifully written and reminded my of how I felt a few months back when my Mom died.

If I get a chance today I'm going to finish my book review of Out in the Garden, by Dean Riddle. I love the play on words in the title. The author is gay and out in real life too.

How's your Sunday going? Do you ever resent feeling obligated to read a book?

5 comments:

  1. Oh dear, I'm glad I'm not the only one who gets those guilt-inducing emails from LibraryThing, misery does love company and all. ;)

    I actually have about three books from their ER program that I've yet to read. I've put them on my TBR list for the coming year though so hopefully I will be able to read my emails guilt free after that!

    And yes, I've avoided signing up for any more ER books - I can't take the pressure!

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  2. I'm glad to hear that I have company, Lesley! It's been several months since I signed up for an ER book. I may give it a try again once my review is posted (and I'm guilt free).

    Aloha from Rob

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  3. Rob...thanks for visiting my blog. I enjoyed Dragon House a lot, but I had to chuckle about your comment on "Catholic Guilt" - I can relate to that one...LOL

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  4. I have all kinds of book guilt. my Guilt List.

    I have found that once I made these lists, the Power of the List took over and I've worked my way through a lot of them. Still a ways to go.

    Good luck with yours!

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  5. I took Dragon House to the ER last night while our Aunty was being admitted. The lives of the children really pulled my heart strings. I didn't get too far; too many distractions while waiting for her.

    Diane: I'm glad to hear you enjoyed the book too. Isn't "Catholic Guilt" powerful?

    Rose City: Thanks for sharing your guilt list. I tried the link but it doesn't seem to work.

    Aloha from Rob

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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.