Kevin Kennedy is not only an avid reader with some great book recommendations, he also has a great tip for those who admire the work of a writer. “Write them a letter and let them know how much you enjoyed their work.” A great tip for those who have poured over the pages written by their favorite author.
Kevin joins It Takes Two with Amy & JJ to share some of his recent reads. These include newer fiction and non-fiction as well as some favorites from the back of the shelf.
“The Pillars of the Earth” by Ken Follett
The Pillars of the Earth is a historical novel by Welsh author Ken Follett published in 1989 about the building of a cathedral in the fictional town of Kingsbridge, England. Set in the 12th century, the novel covers the time between the sinking of the White Ship and the murder of Thomas Becket, but focuses primarily on the Anarchy. The book traces the development of Gothic architecture out of the preceding Romanesque architecture, and the fortunes of the Kingsbridge priory and village against the backdrop of historical events of the time.
“Blood Meridian” by Cormac McCarthy
In a loosely historical context the narrative follows a fictional teenager referred to as “the kid,” with the bulk of the text devoted to his experiences with the Glanton gang, a historical group of scalp hunters who massacred aboriginal Americans and others in the United States–Mexico borderlands from 1849 to 1850 for bounty, pleasure, and eventually out of nihilistic habit. The role of antagonist is gradually filled by Judge Holden, a physically massive, highly educated, preternaturally skilled member of the gang who is extremely pale and completely bald from head to toe.
“Flying Funny” by Dudley Riggs
Dudley Riggs shares many highs and lows while describing circus life and the evolution of America’s popular entertainment during the twentieth century. From his early life in circus and vaudeville to his creation of the Brave New Workshop, we see how his show business experience and instincts helped him create in Minneapolis what became the “next wave” in American entertainment—improvisation.
“How to Write One Song” by Jeff Tweedy
There are few creative acts more mysterious and magical than writing a song. But what if the goal wasn’t so mysterious and was actually achievable for anyone who wants to experience more magic and creativity in their life? That’s something that anyone will be inspired to do after reading Jeff Tweedy’s How to Write One Song.
“Is This Anything?” by Jerry Seinfeld
The book is a collection of Seinfeld’s comedic writings over the span of his 45-year career and compiles some of his best jokes.The title is based on the main question a comedian asks when they are testing out new material. The book scored a spot on the New York Times Best Seller list.
“The Fifth Risk” by Michael Lewis
The Fifth Risk is a 2018 non-fiction book by Michael Lewis that examines the transition and political appointments of the Donald Trump presidency, especially with respect to three government agencies: the Department of Energy, the Department of Agriculture, and the Department of Commerce.The book spent fourteen weeks on The New York Times non-fiction best-seller list. A lengthy excerpt from the book was published twice by The Guardian, using a quote from a top adviser to Trump in the title.
“A Life in Parts” by Bryan Cranston
A Life in Parts is a 2016 memoir by Bryan Cranston that explores his various television and film appearances. Most of the book focuses on Cranston’s most famous role, Walter White from Breaking Bad.
(Amy Iler & JJ Gordon are talk-show hosts at 790 AM KFGO in Fargo-Moorhead. “It Takes 2 with Amy & JJ” can be heard weekdays 11am-2pm. Check out the show page on Facebook. Follow Amy on Twitter @AmyKFGO & follow JJ on Twitter @JJGodon701)
Additional Content from It Takes Two with Amy & JJ
Additional Content by JJ Gordon:
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KFGO Blog – 50 of My Favorite Saturday Night Live Sketches!
KFGO Blog – Virtual Monopoly?!?! Yes, please!
KFGO Blog – How I Learned the States and Their Capitals
KFGO Blog – The Most Embarrassing Picture From My Youth
KFGO Blog – A Tale of Two Murders
KFGO Blog – The Three R’s of Remembering My Father
