Luke Johnson > Recent Status Updates

Robert Moses was admirable at the beginning of the book. He bypassed stifling government bureaucracy to create, on the surface, wonderful monuments dedicated to the people. But as he grew older and more powerful, his corrosive personality ruined not only my opinion of him but also the city he claimed to be dedicated to. He is a villain, and this book is unbelievably good.

Moses has consolidated his power through clever bill drafting, his beloved public reputation, and an incredible work ethic. His creation of the Long Island parks through genius methods of land appropriation was very interesting. But a reoccurring theme of his disregard for the people who live on the land he needs is becoming more disturbing.

I bought this book at the same time as Stoner at my local Barnes and Noble. I was supposed to finish Stoner before this due to this books length but I could not help myself and started this one last week. This past week has been one of the most enjoyable reading experiences of my life. This is on track to be my favorite non fiction book of all time. Right now, Robert has found a new enemy in FDR, my fav president.

This novel so far is very good. The description of William discovering his love of literature was very moving. His stoicism and dedication to his love of reading is admirable. Edith is an enigma so far. Her coldness is concerning, but I’m curious to see how her relationship with William evolves.

This book is fucked up, I’m going to need a palate cleanser. I love it lol.

I have no idea how Paul is going to escape. Annie is more cunning than initially portrayed. I’m loving this book so far, if this keeps up it will be up there with the Shining.

Annie Wilkes is an amazing character who is scarier than any other monster imagined by Stephen King because there people like Annje Wilkes who are living right now. Just like the Shining, Misery showcases Stephen Kings ability to write a thrilling story with a handful of characters in one setting.

It’s fine so far. I’ve had less dedicated reading time recently, and it’s affecting my ability to engage with the story. The setting is the best part; the characters and plot so far are stale. Hopefully, it picks up with McGrady in Hong Kong.

I am burning through this book. Feyd Rathua is very interesting. His relationship with his uncle is so dysfunctional and intriguing. Paul continuing to grow into his prophecy against his will is tragic.

I have not been this invested in a book in months. I forgot how enjoyable it is to look forward each day to the times where I’m able to sit down and read. The start of the book was slow, but loving the pace the plot is moving now.

The baron is creepy.

“Muad'Dib learned rapidly because his first training was in how to learn. And the first lesson of all was the basic trust that he could learn. It's shocking to find how many people do not believe they can learn, and how many more believe learning to be difficult. Muad'Dib knew that every experience carries its lesson.” I love this quote. The fact this book was written in the 60’s is insane.

Good but a lot of names and terms that have not been explained yet. Jessica is my favorite character so far. I want bene gesserit powers really bad.

Complicated

A lot of fun.

SO MANY CHARACTER NAMES! Really good so far. I get the hype.