some of this some of that

I am pleased to report that all but one of my holds came in at once but thankfully all but one was softcover. I’m also very pleased that I came out mostly unscathed from the NYPL catalog upgrade. The new interface is taking some getting used to, but I can login, request books, and renew items so I’m happy. The largest benefit to all of this was my discovery that some audio titles are now available as MP3 mac-compliant downloads.

Along with most other things in my life this wet yet mild NYC summer, I’ve been pretty scattered in my reading. I’m still holding a few to review in a chunk (we’ll see how that goes, teabird, please relax!) but most of the time I find that I’m just reading a few pages here and there then setting it aside. I’ve also picked up a few little audio books to listen to for fun. Some are stories I’ve not read for years. Some are the classics I just can’t seem to crack open and read. I’m finding my walk home from the train is a good time to work on them and as long as it doesn’t rain I can knit *and* read *and* walk home.

The Botany of Desire: A Plant’s-Eye View of the World
by Michael Pollan

I forget why I put a hold request out for this one, perhaps because I was interested in catching up on other writings by authors I’ve read. I found it an interesting read and fear I will delve into research to see where certain pieces stand since publication (namely areas where I am ignorant: organic farming and genetically modified plants). I found Pollan’s writing hilarious at times and at others I wanted him to just move on already. I do recommend it for many parts, but do be aware that some aspects will be dated.

Beatrix Potter Complete Tales
by Beatrix Potter

“Reread” in 2009 as an audiobook. I received and first read the complete set when I was a little girl and loved reading the stories of all the animals in Beatrix Potter’s world. I grew up in the woods and would go outside and look for a little bunny in a nice neat coat… It was fun to listen to and brought back many happy memories.

• Category: books