Post date: Dec 11, 2012 3:07:39 PM
Since I've been enjoying some downtime between finishing classes, starting my thesis, and all of the normal holiday season preparations, I thought I'd share some of my favorite titles that help pass the time.
I'm a huge Audible.com fan and consume at least 70% of my reading via the audio format. I simply love some of the performances that are given which truly make the stories come alive. Here are a few of my favorites (both audio and printed format):
The Mad Scientists Club series by: Bertrand R. Brinley
This series is geared towards a younger audience, however the tales and science are great at any age! Almost like the adventures of the young Mythbusters. I've read these multiple times.
http://www.madscientistsclub.com/MSC/Home.html
Founding Brothers by: Joseph J. Ellis
A very neat catalog of geek history based on letters preserved between some of our historical greats.
http://www.audible.com/pd?asin=B002V1BQUO
Ready Player One by: Ernest Cline
This is one of my newest all-time favorites and a must read for anyone with a love of the 80's! Wil Wheaton's performance is wonderful.
http://www.audible.com/pd?asin=B005FRGT44
Daemon & Freedom(TM) by: Daniel Suarez
These two books take technology future to a whole new level. Be prepared to enter the Darknet!
http://www.audible.com/series/ref=ml_1_76/?asin=B006K1QL2Y
The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo series by: Stieg Larsson
Amazing sequence of tales set in Sweden with movie follow-ups from both a Swedish studio and Hollywood. I recommend reading the books, watching the Swedish movies, and the cap off the experience with the Hollywood version. Excellent stuff!
http://www.audible.com/series/ref=ml_1_63/?asin=B005NAT8KK
Abraham Lincoln, Vampire Hunter by: Seth Grahame-Smith
Another in my "History Geek" series - chock full of factual information, Seth intertwines a secondary plot that makes for a fantastic story! Sadly, the Hollywood production was not as good in my opinion. Start with the book. :-)
The Da Vinci Code by: Dan Brown
Another great historical fiction adventure, full of old-school technology.
The Screwtape Letters by: C.S. Lewis
From the author who brought us the wonderful and fantastic land of Narnia, comes this weird little story. After reading this, you'll definitely want to head to church!
The Devil in the White City by: Erik Larson
My final "History Geek" selection, this is a great dual-plot adventure set during the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago. Follow the building of the fair as well as the actions of a serial killer. Quite the adventure!
http://www.audible.com/pd?asin=B002V0Q0LK
Enjoy and I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season!
-PHIL