Category Book reviews

Part-Time Indian: Absolutely, You Should Read This Book

Reg Spittle Leave a comment

During her Master Class writing course that I recently finished, author Judy Blume recommends one book: The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie.

So I looked it up.

I learned it was one of the most-taught novels in secondary schools in America and beyond. And one of the most-often banned.

So I bought it.

But I screwed up. The book was supposed to ease me to sleep as I lay in my bed. Hours later, I still turned the pages on my Kindle Oasis.

Like Bloom, I will mention just the basics. No plot summary. No hints about the characters. No colorful phrases of recommendation.

Only these words: You should read it.

A 20-Year Run to the Boston Marathon

Reg Spittle Leave a comment

Whether you are a serious distance runner or an armchair adventurer, Thomas Hesch’s book will draw you to finish his story about dedication and grit.

In Twenty Years to the Finish Line, Hesch describes his two-decade path to realize his dream: Run in the Boston Marathon–and finish it. It is a story filled with road bumps and challenges that would end the dream for many who seek a coveted place in one of running’s great competitions.

I was enthralled by Hesch’s training regimen. It is quite a feat for anyone on the cusp of his 70s; there are many who are decades younger who fall short of Boston qualifying.

Although I expected him to finish the 26.2 miles, I raced to the last chapter to find out for sure. I expect you may do the same.