WAR IS BORING by David Axe and Matt Bors

An introspective look at how the context of war has permeated the citizenry of the United States in the post- 9/11 era, 'War is Boring' serves as both a jab at the American state of mind that is so quick to readily accept violence, as well as a memoir of a truly dark and disturbing time in David Axe's journalistic career. 

The graphic novel centers on David Axe's experiences as a journalist in war torn countries, where he faced danger on a daily basis.  The story is told through a linear narrative, as Axe explains his dangerous career choice with a driver in Chad.  Axe reveals his fascination with danger, war, and violence, which is juxtaposed against his safe and ordinary life back in America.  Axe quickly grows sick of domestic life and opts to return to some of the most dangerous nations on earth for assignments as a war correspondent.  It is quickly revealed that Axe is addicted to war and violence, as he grows restless, impatient, and unbearable to his friends and family back home. 

The most successful graphic novels find a delicate, yet firm balance between the artwork and the writing, and this is achieved tremendously in 'War is Boring'.  Matt Bors, a prominent political cartoonist is at his finest in this work, as the artwork is realistic, expressive, and truly coalesces with the story.  It is difficult to imagine the graphic novel being so successful with different artwork. 

The one issue I have about 'War is Boring' is that it is too short.  It's a great read, but lamentably, it is also a short one.  The linear storyline works great with the story, and wraps up quite well, yet after I finished it, I wanted to read more, which I suppose is the mark of a truly enjoyable read. 

Though it is a dark story of personal discovery in a context of death and brutality, 'War is Boring' provides a stark insight into the human condition when truly pushed to it's limit.  It is the epitome of what a graphic novel can be, as well as what it should be. 

On a side note, Matt Bors is a great political cartoonist, with a penchant for social justice.  His website is www.mattbors.com/

For more information about David Axe, visit his website, www.warisboring.com/

'NO BEAST SO FIERCE' by EDWARD BUNKER

As a writer of crime fiction, Edward Bunker had firsthand knowledge of his subject matter.  The youngest inmate to be admitted to San Quentin State Prison, Bunker’s salvation came in the form of the written word, as he was able to successfully make a transformation from career criminal to novelist.  His first published novel, ‘No Beast So Fierce’, is what inspired me to truly realize that those who are in prison are human beings with whom we all share the common bond of humanity.  Prior to reading the novel, I was a major proponent of law enforcement, and did not see beyond the fallacious and overly simplistic labels of good and bad in regards to people and their roles in society.  Bunker was able to show me that we are all humans, however, and though some may have made mistakes that have resulted in their incarceration, we cannot simply forget about those who we have cast off to the outskirts of society.  Bunker was also the first to make me question the effectiveness and efficiency of the Criminal Justice system in America.  This novel is an inspiring read that examines the inefficiency of the Criminal Justice system, the pathos of the criminal class, and the societal hypocrisies that are clearly overlooked contributors to the disproportionate recidivism rate in the United States. 

As far as the literary aspect of the novel goes, it is an exhilarating first person account of Max Dembo, a recently paroled ex-convict who is trying to make his way through Los Angeles without violating his parole or losing his sense of identity.  This proves harder than it sounds, given that all of his friends are criminals, and his attempts to procure legitimate work are all thwarted by the stigma of being an ex-convict.  At times gripping and heartbreaking, Bunker's debut novel makes one feel a sense of compassion for those who are coming out of prison, and helps the reader gain a new perspective on the criminal class in America.  It is also an incredibly accurate depiction of Los Angeles, as this was Bunker's home town, and he writes about areas of the city with a flair for the underworld that is hauntingly real. 

'No Beast So Fierce' is by far the best crime novel I have ever read, but it should definitely be regarded as a tremendous work of literature, first and foremost. 

The novel was actually adapted into the movie 'Straight Time', starring Dustin Hoffman as Max Dembo.  It boasts an all star cast, but was not a commercial success. 

 Bunker's early mugshot, a testament to his authenticity as a crime novelist.

One of the most revealing photographs of Bunker, in my opinion.  Though he passed away in 2005, his legacy will forever remain, in the form of his extraordinary prose, and inspirational saga of redemption. 

'Animal Factory' is another great read by Bunker.  The entire novel takes place in prison, and it is an honest depiction of an unpleasant place, by a man who has experienced it firsthand. 

'Little Boy Blue' is rather heavy on the prose, and is a difficult read at times.  It is a great story, however, and is based on Bunker's personal experiences growing up as an intelligent juvenile delinquent in Southern California. 

Bunker's memoir 'Education of a Felon' is nothing short of riveting. 

Published posthumously, 'Stark' was a novel that Bunker was never able to get published, yet it ranks among his best work.  In terms of the plot, it is much more of a fun read than his other works, though it still delivers a harrowing account of crime, addiction, and hopelessness that could only be penned by Bunker.  The foreword by James Ellroy is typically pretentious Ellroy that the reader should skip. 

If any of Bunker's other books could claim to be equal to  'No Beast So Fierce' it is 'Dog Eat Dog', the most gripping and thrilling crime novel that I have ever read.  While it may not be as literary as 'No Beast So Fierce', it is probably more exciting than any of his other novels.  The story of a trio of armed robbers, it is a novel that is a brutally honest account of armed robbery and the criminal lifestyle.  It is also a real Los Angeles novel, as it takes the reader from the LA underworld, to the modest San Gabriel Valley in the most authentic descriptions one can read about the area.  This is classic Bunker, and I insist you read it. 

COLD CALLER by JASON STARR

For my money, there is no better suspense writer than Jason Starr.  I have literally stayed up all night reading his novels, and 'Cold Caller' kept me awake until 7am.  The story revolves around Bill Moss, a preppy, pretentious snob in his 30's who works as a telemarketer after being let go from his previous job as a high powered ad executive.  Desperate to regain his once prestigious employment status, he makes a series of decisions that turn his life upside down and reveal just how cutthroat he can be. 

Everything about this book is wonderful.  It is akin to an Alfred Hitchcock movie, or a piece of noir writing from the 1950's.  Starr's style simply cannot be matched.  He writes with a flair for the suspenseful, and manages to keep the reader's heart beating faster and faster throughout the entire novel.  I have read 3 other novels by Jason Starr (Tough Luck, Hard Feelings, and Fake ID), and they each have had the same effect on me.  The characters penned by Starr are absolutely perfect in that they respond to their situations in a manner that creates the most possible friction, drama, and suspense that is possible.  The characters' reactions to their conditions are like a train wreck involving sideshow freaks-one simply cannot look away. 

Another element that defines Starr's novels is his use of setting to further the anxieties of his readers.  In 'Cold Caller', as well as the other novels I have read by Starr, the main characters all live in cramped apartments in New York, which only serve to further the rage and frustrations of the characters.  This also serves to create a sense of claustrophobia among the readers, as they can feel the walls closing in on the characters, both in their minds, as well as in their dwellings.  'Cold Caller' utilizes this perfectly, and it adds to the tension that is ubiquitous in every scene that takes place in the apartment.  The elements used by Starr make 'Cold Caller', as well as Starr's other novels, more than novels, but rather trips to the depths of a twisted and tormented mind. 

'Cold Caller' entertains from beginning to end.  Starr takes the reader on a descent into madness and depravity that will leave them longing for more.  Starr's use of the first person in this book makes it all the more real, and all the more terrifying.  Though it was Jason Starr's first novel, it reads like it was penned by a seasoned pro.  If you are a fan of suspense and excitement in your literature, then look no further than Jason Starr. 

'Fake ID' is another great read by Starr.  A past his prime aspiring actor who works as a bouncer decides to break the law in order to invest in a race horse.  Dire repercussions and far reaching implications ensue. 


'Hard Feelings' was the first novel by Starr that I read.  Similar to 'Cold Caller', it involves a businessman trying to make it in New York.  His struggles to be successful are seemingly all for naught until he meets a former bully and remembers something from his childhood that he had blocked out.  He takes matters into his own hands, and complications occur that make this novel a suspenseful masterpiece. 







'Tough Luck' is both heartbreaking and exhilarating.  You can't help but feel for the main character as he tries to maintain his sanity while dealing with an overbearing boss, a father with dementia, an unruly mobster, and his own gambling addiction.  This is a great read with an amazing ending that will make the reader's jaw drop. 

THE CROQUET PLAYER by H.G. WELLS

H.G. Wells was a true visionary of human nature, and this is clearly evident in 'The Croquet Player'.  Though less than 100 pages in length, this story conveys the philosophical and existential dilemma that encompasses us all at one point or another, while still maintaining a chilling tone that leaves the reader trembling.  In this story, it is not so much an external force that serves as an adversary, but rather the internal knowledge of human progress, and the implications that accompany such progress.  I wont spoil the plot too much, given the brevity of the book, but I will say that it will leave the reader unable to put it down once it is begun, and the ending is an incredibly satisfying conclusion in regards to the character development of the main characters.  It is difficult to expand on this book without revealing significant details about the plot and characters, of which there are not many, so I will end this review by saying that 'The Croquet Player' is both an entertaining and insightful read that will leave the reader in a state of introspection and satisfaction. 

WHY YOU SHOULD READ DANNY KING'S BOOKS

Danny King is brilliant.  Even though he is primarily known in the UK, he is someone that you need to be reading.  His books are without a doubt the funniest novels I have ever read, and they are also some of the most exciting novels I have ever read. 

King started his writing career with a book called 'The Burglar Diaries'. 

This book will make you fall out of your seat laughing, it is so good.  The adventures of 2 English Burglars named Bex and Ollie, this book takes you along with these hilarious Brits not only as they rob houses at night, but also as they try to make their way through everyday life.  It is hilarious.  Even though it is from the UK and has numerous British references, it can still be enjoyed by anyone.  I was 22 when I first stumbled upon a Danny King novel in the LA Public Library in downtown Los Angeles, and I have since read EVERY BOOK he has ever written.  The only other author whose entire works I have read is Gerald Petievich, but I will save him for another blog post. 

After writing 'The Burglar Diaries', King went on to write several other books in a similar style, all of which were Diaries of various tradesmen of some sort.  Then, King wrote 'Milo's Marauders', which is like a hilarious version of Edward Bunker's 'No Beast So Fierce'.  The follow up to this was 'Milo's Run', which was as thrilling as it was funny.  Then, King wrote a few stand alone novels and a self published sequel to 'The Burglar Diaries'. 

I am incredibly thankful that I happened to find Danny King's book in the library that day, as I have thoroughly enjoyed all of his novels.  I know in a previous blog post, I said that Walter Mosley was my favorite writer, but when I think about it, I have to say that Walter Mosley shares his spot at the top of my favorite writer list with Danny King.  I sincerely doubt that either men care, however, since it is completely inconsequential to both writers. 

So there it is, Danny King is the funniest novelist I have ever read.  Danny Wallace is funny in a feel good and do good kind of way, but Danny King is funny in a straight-shooting, direct kind of way that pulls no punches and isn't afraid to offend anyone.  His unpretentious style of prose simply cannot be matched.  If you haven't read anything by him, go out and order one of his books, any one of them.  They are all going to make you laugh and yearn for more to read. 

On a personal note, I emailed Danny King to ask about an autograph, and he sent me this to print out, along with a really nice email. 

The really cool thing is that you can see he signed it on the back of an envelope and then scanned it. 

Do yourself a favor and check out his website, he's a funny guy and writes hilarious books. 

http://www.dannykingbooks.com/

SHIT MY DAD SAYS by JUSTIN HALPERN

Started-1/5/11
Finished-1/6/11

While the true title of this non-fiction memoir of a 30 year old man with a vociferous father is 'Sh*t My Dad Says', I wont insult you by censoring the word "Shit".  Just as the title suggests, this book is about the ramblings of a father, which can be at times brutally direct, yet sagely insightful.  I picked up this book out of sheer curiosity, as I had read a few chapters in the bookstore before, and wanted to see if it held up as a continuous narrative.  Unfortunately, it doesn't.  While it is entertaining and at times a bit heartwarming, it is a stretch to say that the essays and quotes contained in the book warranted a book. 

The idea started as a popular Twitter site, in which Justin Halpern would document the inane, angry, and often hilarious things his father would say out loud.  It was good for a laugh, and so is the book.  Unfortunately, the book tries to be more than that, as it ventures into the territory of warm, sappy family tales.  The book is essentially a series of recollections on the youth of Halpern, as well as his father's pivotal role in helping and supporting Halpern, albeit while swearing like a sailor.  It is touching that Halpern and his father bond over such vulgar quips, yet it also feels a touch too personal for public consumption.  The stories can be heartwarming and funny, but it seems a bit too revealing, and slightly too personal and esoteric for the reading public. 

I enjoyed this book, but it was a mistake to read it after reading 'Friends Like These' by Danny Wallace.  After that masterpiece, 'Shit My Dad Says' seemed like sentimental filler, lightly sprinkled with vulgar humor.  It's good, but not great. 

Check out Halpern's Twitter for some funny quotes from his Dad.  If you like them, go out and check out the book, myabe you will like it.  If not, read some Danny Wallace instead. 

http://twitter.com/#!/shitmydadsays

FRIENDS LIKE THESE by DANNY WALLACE

Started: 1/1/11
Finished-1/5/11

Danny Wallace is truly hilarious.  His wit leaves the reader wanting more, and his prose is nearly impossible to stop reading.  I actually ended up staying up until 4am reading this book for about 3 days in a row, and then I literally stayed up all night reading it when I finished it.  If you have never read Danny Wallace before, then I suggest you pick up this book, or maybe 'Yes Man', which he also wrote.  They are both incredibly funny books that actually make you feel good, like the world is really a great place,and like adventure is always waiting for you. 

'Friends Like These' is Wallace's written account of the anxiety he felt as he was a few months shy of turning 30 years old.  Like 'Yes Man' it is non-fiction, and makes you wonder how Danny Wallace's life could get any more incredible.  As he nears 30, Wallace is sent a box from his Mother, which contains several mementos from his youth, including an address book with the names of 12 of his best friends as a child.  He then endeavors to locate each friend and see if they are also having trouble with the idea of turning 30.  This quest takes him around the world on more than one occasion, and wherever he goes, Wallace seems to have a different adventure, as well as cosmic signs from the universe.  It is an amazing read, and it is laugh out loud funny. 

I first read Danny Wallace in 2010, when I picked up 'Yes Man' from Vromans book store in Pasadena.  I had enjoyed the movie, and wondered what the book would be like.  I was shocked to see it was non-fiction, and once I started reading it, I was hooked.  I read 50 books in 2010, most of them simply amazing.  'Yes Man', however, was by far the best.  So far, 'Friends Like These' is tied with 'The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey' for best book of 2011.  Since we are only a week into the new year, however, that is subject to change. 

'Friends Like These' is a great read by a great writer.

Speaking of Walter Mosley...

Since the first books I read in both 2011 and 2010 were novels by Walter Mosley, (2011-The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey, 2010-Walking The Dog), and since I just reviewed Mosley's latest novel, I figured this picture would be an appropriate addition to my blog. 





This was taken in 2009, when I met him at a book reading for 'The Long Fall' at Vromans bookstore in Pasadena, California.  I went back in 2010 for the reading of 'Known to Evil', and while I didn't get a picture with him, I did get a funny story. 

I arrived late to the reading, and so was only able to get an(other) autograph.  I brought my copy of 'Killing Johnny Fry', which is easily my favorite Walter Mosley novel. 

For those unfamiliar with this novel, it is an erotic fiction novel about a man whose life is turned upside down one day, and who awakens from his poor excuse for a life and unwittingly embarks on an adventure through a New York he had never known existed.  It's a great read, and I highly recommend it.  That being said, it is probably not the novel you want to read on the bus or on your lunch break at work, due to some risque and rather explicit parts.  Anyway, as I waited in the line for autographs, I could see that I was pretty much the only one who had decided to choose this book to be signed.  Once I was at the front of the line, I patiently waited as a middle aged lady spoke to Mr. Mosley rather briefly and casually.  Then, as he reached over to get my book to sign, he glanced up at me and said hello, then commented on the book. 

"Killing Johnny Fry," he said to no one in particular.  Then he turned to the lady who was ahead of me, as well as his publicist behind him, another middle aged lady. 

"Have you read this one?" he asked them both. 

Both shook her heads, but their eyes were inquisitive as to the nature and plot of the story.  He glanced up at me, mischievously and said, "There are 32 graphic sex scenes in this book, and I think one gay one." 

Now, at this point, I was at the front of a line of mostly middle-aged readers who seemed to be fans of Mosley's mystery novels more than his erotic fiction novels.  I immediately felt the stares of every person in the line, and when I looked up to explain that there was also a great story in the novel, and not just raunchy sex scenes, I found that the countenance of the woman ahead of me had taken a rather shocked and appalled look, while the look of his publicist was pure disgust and judgement.  Mr. Mosley just smiled and chuckled to himself. 

With the women ahead of me looking at me like I was the biggest pervert in the world, a line full of now uncomfortable mystery readers, and a smiling Walter Mosley looking at me, I could only think of one thing to say. 

"It's...my favorite book..." 

I'm sure Mr. Mosley said something after that, but I was rather embarrassed, so I thanked him for the autograph, and quickly made my way past the line and out the door, before someone called the Vice Squad on me. 

I was already a huge fan of Walter Mosley, but after this experience, I think he pretty much became my favorite author ever.

THE LAST DAYS OF PTOLEMY GREY by WALTER MOSLEY

Started: 12/29/10
Finished: 1/1/11

Walter Mosley is simply the best contemporary fiction writer we have seen in the past 20 years.  His prose is magnificent and evokes a pathos that is both stunning and unpretentious.  Not content to merely succeed with his numerous mystery series, including the brilliant novels featuring his latest detective Leonid McGill, Mosley takes the reader on a journey in his modern fiction endeavors. 

'The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey' is a testament to the extraordinary way Mosley can take his readers to a world that can only exist within the recesses of the human spirit.  The story itself is about a 91 year old man going through dementia, who meets a young woman who helps transform him from an old man lost in his own mind to a man who can clearly see the world around him through eyes that have seen almost a century of life.  The story is reminiscent of Daniel Keyes' 'Flowers For Algernon', though not to such an extreme.  It is more of a spiritual tale, in essence, as the aged Ptolemy Grey must look within himself to overcome past demons and fulfill near-forgotten promises of decades before. 

Having read nearly every book Walter Mosley has penned, I can easily say that this ranks among the top 5 of his entire literary canon.  It has all of Mosley's elements that have made him so successful, yet is a story that is fresh and both heartwarming and heartbreaking. 

It is a book that will make you appreciate the beauty of life and the majesty of the human condition.