Blogger’s block
It seems I’ve developed a case of blogger’s block. It’s not like I haven’t had things to blog about–I’ve had a series of ideas all along, if nothing terribly exciting, at least some things to think about, and news about our life here in Nigeria. So why haven’t I been writing? Anyone with a similar experience? Maybe it’s the hot weather?
A lot of ideas had to to with books I’ve been reading, but the ones I read back in December are getting hazy in my mind now. That in itself is a reason I should have blogged about them back then, just to refresh my own memory and give me something concrete to look back on. Oh well.
It wasn’t by design, but many of the interesting books I’ve read lately are some variety of science fiction or fantasy. My choices have been guided mostly by my kids’ recommendations — it’s wonderful to have kids who read, and who know what I might like to read also.
Saralynn had been telling me for some time that I should read A Canticle for Leibowitz by Walter Miller. I started it thinking it was just another story about life after a nuclear holocaust, an idea reinforced by the garish cover. Even after the first chapter or two, it seemed it was just going to be about the old-fashioned, ignorant, anti-technology religious monks opposed to progress.
Not so … the book developed in complexity and moral depth as it progressed, covering a period of several hundred years in three sections. As with any good science fiction, the point is not an escapist story but a deeper look at humanity and the world today. It was also a page turner, at least for me. Besides being an exciting and interesting story, it deals with thought-provoking issues including the roles of individual and state; ethical boundaries to technical knowledge; religion and power; and freedom of conscience.
Highly recommended and a book you’re almost sure to find at your local library. (4.5 stars rating on Amazon)
March 31st, 2008 at 9:23 am
it’s wonderful to have kids who read. True.
Where can one get the book?
B’tful blog. B’tful thots.
March 31st, 2008 at 6:30 pm
I read this book many years ago - and then again about 10 years ago, and greatly enjoyed it both times. May be time to pick it up again. Thanks for your thought on it.
March 31st, 2008 at 6:58 pm
If you’re in Nigeria, Chris, I don’t know where you can get the book. As you know, libraries are not our strong point. You can find new and used copies on Amazon (click on the link or book cover image) or anywhere that sells books.
Thanks for the comment, Scott. By the way, I’ve been tipped off not to bother reading the “sequel” … have you read it? Any thoughts?
April 2nd, 2008 at 12:38 pm
Dear Mike
Sorry this is a little of topic but I have been trying to find balanced information on Nigeria as I could have an opportunity to move there as part of a job posting with my family. I contacted the Irish embassy and the delta region was a kind of no go area but could you recommend any further places to look to get balanced information before we decided to relocate.
I must confess I read kid books Harry potter, Terry Pratchet but it great escape after a long week.
All best
Stephen
April 3rd, 2008 at 3:56 pm
It’s hard to say how to get “balanced” information. Most of what I’ve seen on the main media sites such as BBC, Time Magazine, VOA, etc. seem fairly accurate, so you could accumulate an idea of the country from that. The best, if you can afford the time and money, would be to come here for a visit to see what you’d be getting into. Especially if you can visit the actual location where you would be working and living.
If that’s not possible, the next best would be to find someone who has been on the same job or in the same location, and talk to them. But, especially if you’re considering bringing a family, you really ought to know as much as possible and first hand is best.
April 4th, 2008 at 9:52 am
Thank you for the advice.
Best
Stephen