Word of Mouth

The Star Tribune recently ran a nice review of Ellen Hawley's new novel Open Line, published by Minneapolis' own Coffee House Press. It's a satire of conspiracy-minded media, and a darn good read. Said the STrib, "The book is great comedy, but it also is challenging and sobering, leaving us to wonder just how far … Continue reading Word of Mouth

DIY Booker

In honor of its own fortieth anniversary, the folks at the Man Booker Prize have announced the shortlist of titles for the "Best of Booker" Prize. Six past winners made the cut: Midnight's Children by Salman RushdieDisgrace by J.M. CoetzeeThe Siege of Krishnapur by J.G. FarrellThe Conservationist by Nadine GordimerThe Ghost Road by Pat BarkerOscar … Continue reading DIY Booker

It’s About Time

From the New York Times comes word that filming has begun on a revamped version of that staple of my childhood, The Electric Company; details are here. Now as then, the show aims to help struggling young readers--usually from low-income households. This time around, though, the show will be a multimedia extravaganza, including radio ads, … Continue reading It’s About Time