Game of Thrones

Penned By: George R.R. Martin

In the world of Ice and Fire magic is real. Only it's subtle and not overwhelming to the enthralling story unfolding. Each chapter is told from a different characters viewpoint, yet flows easily and the pieces and timeline can be put together with little effort. This first novel focuses primarily on the powerful family in the North of the country Westeros, the Starks. For several years a peace has fallen and a long summer has allowed warmth to seep into their lives. However, "Winter is coming", and strange happenings are sending the country spiraling into a struggle for power, both of the politcal and mystical kind. Follow the Stark family as they are made pawns and major players in the Game of Thrones.

Quote: "You have five trueborn children... Three sons, two daughters. The direwolf is the sigil of your House. Your children were meant to have these pups, my lord."

Genus: Fantastical Worlds

Era: Older is Better

Difficulty: 4

Determination: For the genus lover

Series: Yes, 1st of 7

Film: HBO Series Game of Thrones

Your type of tale? Try these: The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien, Eragon by Christopher Paolini,  Dragonflight by Anne McCaffrey

Cool Stuff:  Comic Book       Fan site: Westeros      The Board Game

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The Open Boat

  Photograph by: Amber Murray   (c)

Penned By: Stephen Crane

The height of Stephen Crane's phenomenal description ability is reached in this short story. Rich descriptions are equally met with plot, dialogue, characterization, and self-discovery. This is a tale beautifully composed and should be required reading simply as an example of how wonderful the English language can be. The story itself is enthralling and the reader will be on the edge of their seat wondering what is going to happen to the men in the boat. It will cause you to question your view of the world and open you to new paths of empathy. With even the smallest imagination, the reader will find themselves in the Open Boat, hoping and praying for solid ground.

Quote:
"If I am going to be drowned--if I am going to be drowned--if I am going
to be drowned, why, in the name of the seven mad gods who rule the sea,
was I allowed to come thus far and contemplate sand and trees?"

Genus: Literary Minded

Era: Older is Better

Difficulty: 4

Determination: Must Read

Series: No - short story

Film: No

Read The Open Boat here!

Your type of tale? Try these: East of Eden by John Steinbeck, The Innocents Abroad or The New Pilgrims' Progress by Mark Twain, and The Storm by Kate Chopin