Book Meme - Nice!

Generally, I waste people's time with memes on social networks, particularly MySpace, not on my blog. But this one was cool, innocent and something I'd love to see others fill out. Thanks to Amy Derby for passing it on...

What was the last book you bought?

Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri

Name a book you have read MORE than once

I don't think I've ever read a book more than once.

Has a book ever fundamentally changed the way you see life? If yes, what was it?

Yes, Fahrenheit 451 introduced me to Ray Bradbury, which I think is my favorite American writer ever. I took a whole new perspective on writing and the creative process after reading more of his work.

Also, Night by Eli Wiesel.

How do you choose a book - eg. by cover design and summary, recommendations or reviews

Well, I'm a librarian, so I have a whole host of book-choosing methods. Sometimes I read a good review or hear a great podcast about a book. Sometimes I hear an interview with an author or an excerpt from the book. I get into moods, like lately I've been reading about American cities, namely Chicago and New York. I also consult my circle of fiction reading gurus at Southfield Public Library. Lots of ways to choose books.

Do you prefer Fiction or Non-Fiction?

Hmm, it's a toss-up. I love them equally.

What’s more important in a novel - beautiful writing or a gripping plot?

I've finished novels that I thought were crap based strictly on the great writing (i.e. Namesake).

Most loved/memorable character (character/book)

Prabu from Shantaram. Lionel Essrog in Motherless Brooklyn. Nevil Longbottom in the Harry Potter books. I'm sure there are others.

Which book or books can be found on your nightstand at the moment?

The Divine comedy by Dante Alghieri

Choke by Chuck Palahniuk

Rough guide to running by Lloyd Bradley

Bradbury stories : 100 of his most celebrated tales by Ray Bradbury

What was the last book you’ve read, and when was it?

Motherless Brooklyn like a week ago.

Have you ever given up on a book half way in?

Nope, I give books about 50 pages and either finish or don't. Although I definitely gave War and Peace and the Electric Acid Kool-Aid Test waaayyyy too much effort.

Your Turn

What are your favorite books? Play the meme if you want to (by copying the questions and answering them on your own blog). Or answer here.