I just couldn't resist stealing this list of banned books from mistressrenet.

List of the top 110 banned books. Bold the ones you’ve read. Italicize the ones you’ve read part of. Underline the ones you specifically want to read (at least some of). Read more. Convince others to read some.

( Here's my list: )

So although I should be answering any number of e-mails from very nice people, wrapping presents, or indeed out and about conducting one of those things often referred to as "a life," I hereby decree this to be the second annual Most Boring Post Ever. This version will be a bit new and improved, though, including capsule reviews and letter grades. ( Read more... )

( Trash: )

I'm reading a book called Survival of the Prettiest: The Science of Beauty, by Nancy Etcoff. It's breezy and fun and interesting, and I absolutely believe much of what it has to say: Love of beauty is hardwired into us, squished right between the instinct to pull tender flesh away from hot stoves and the desire to keep on breathing, no matter what ( Read more... )