It was so fun to play Simon's letter game and have so many of you join in. The best part for me was learning about so many music artists and films which are totally new to me. I mean, new like I dropped in from another planet. Clearly, my knowledge of literature far outweighs my knowledge in the other arts.
I've received so many books in the mail, which I suppose takes us over to a Mailbox Monday post unless you'll indulge me here. For example, this is what came last week from SoHo Press and Random House thanks to a certain publicist who hooks me up with what I need:
Of course I will be reading and reviewing each during the Japanese Literature Challenge 8, from now through January, 2015. And, don't forget to enter the give-away for The Summer of Darkness which ends July 15.
Another obvious thing which happened this week is the new blog template. Well, it's not new that I fiddle around with the look at Dolce Bellezza. What's new is actually purchasing a new template which you now see installed. While I love almost everything about it, a few of you dear readers have mentioned one tiny flaw: the font is too thin, and too light, to easily read. Now, if someone can't read your blog posts it seems rather pointless to write a blog. So while I waver between keeping this one, and returning to Blogger's boring ones, keep your opinions coming. I certainly don't want anyone to struggle through my blog.
And now for thoughts of July. I've already read a fabulous book for Spanish Lit Month, the title and review of which will be revealed when July does in fact arrive. Suffice it so say for now that this particular work has a connection with the Dublin IMPAC award, if you know what I mean, and well deserved it was, too.
As one of the four hostesses for Paris in July, I am planning many reads and reviews of things parisienne. See the yellow cahier under the Japanese books above? It is a journal from August, 1972, which I wrote during one of the trips to Paris my family took. The musings of the 11 year old I was are hilarious, and I will share them with you at some point in July along with the writings of professionals. First up, on July 5, will be a review of Paris Was Ours by Penelope Rowlands. It is a collection of essays from 32 writers who actually leapt into the dream of living a Paris life for themselves. Such inspiring stuff.
I hope that you're planning on tasting some of what July has to offer in the book blogging world. As for me, I'm so thankful that I have summers off for reading.
Happy Sunday, everyone!
