Practical Demonkeeping by Christopher Moore

7/10 - I was a little bummed by this book. I really loved The Stupidest Angel, but this didn't have the same great wit and humor. It's definitely bizarre like Angel, but lacked the humor. This was Moore's debut, so I'm giving it some leeway, and I know I'll come back for more Moore.

The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett

8/10 - I'm so happy I finally finished this book. I started it last summer and got 300 pages in and had to set it down. This is an epic centered around the building of a cathedral in 12th century England. I enjoyed most of the story line, but found the parts about the actual cathedral construction and the monks tedious. I was deep into a monk chapter when I put down last summer. It also annoyed me when the author felt the need to recap what had happened earlier in the book. I read it, and if I feel I need to refresh my memory, I'll go back a look it up. However, I really enjoyed the love story in it, and it was very interesting to read about life in the 12th century. It was a good book, but I'd be hesistant to recommend it. You'd have to be really committed to reading it.

The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath

8/10 - This is one of those books that make you realize how much times have changed. From women's roles in society to psychiatric treatment, this story covers a lot. I had a hard time feeling sympathetic towards the main character because she led such a pampered life (what did she have to be depressed about?). However, I don't think she really expects or wants the reader to be sympathetic, she's written so matter-of-fact. I thought Esther was very progressive for her time. I can't say this was an enjoyable read, but it was definitely thought provoking. You can't help but wonder how much of it was autobiographical.