^Arthur C.Clarke wrote science fiction - 2001 is his best known. 'Childhood's End' is excellent. On the topic of Sci Fi, I'm re-reading 'Chapterhouse Dune' the last Dune novel written by Frank Herbert, and IMO about the best of the series. I'm seeing a lot of depth I missed on the first read. Shame he didn't live long enough to finish the story off. The sequels written by others are pure crap.
Actually, Childhood's End it is a science fiction novel (the title refers to humanity's childhood ending.) I started out reading that genre in my younger teens. I would say it is a book for teenagers/young adults. I still love reading too, but I agree it had more allure when I was a kid; it was my way of escaping from the here and now. I just don't have as much time as I used to have...one of the drawback of being an adult I suppose.
Finishing off "A Russian journal" by John Steinbeck. I must say this is the only his book I'm reading really quick.
Just started on Marcel Proust's 'Remembrance of things Past'. I've been putting it off, because running to 7 volumes it's a big commitment of my own present time to read it all. But I feel it would be a shame to neglect Proust and go to my grave without having read a man who many consider the greatest novelist of the 20th c. Let you know how I get on.
I'm reading a biography on Shannon Hoon (original singer of Blind Melon) Title: A Devil on One Shoulder and an Angel on The Other, by Greg Prato
Just finished China Mieville's Last Days of New Paris and now I'm on to The Vorrh by Brian Catling. I'm on a real absurd/weird/surreal fantasy kick.
I'm looking forward to beginning 10% Happier: How I Tamed the Voice in My Head, Reduced Stress Without Losing My Edge, and Found Self-Help That Actually Works--A True Story by Dan Harris. Harris is a correspondent for ABC News who had an on-air panic attack a few years ago, leading him to try mindfullness/meditation to get a grip on things.
The Secret Teachings Of All Ages, by Manly P Hall I've read parts of this excellent occult teaching. But I'm going to read through the whole book this time. As well as Lectures on Ancient Philosophy.
Listening to Kafka's The Metamorphosis today on audio book.first audio book i''ve ever listened to, I'll probably go back and read it because I'm not the best listener. But I'm at work today so audio it is for now
"The Man Who Quit Money" excellent book "Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee" just finished. Also excellent. About the extermination of the western native american indians from the indians perspective exposing the atrocities comitted by the civilized white christians, and giving some insight into what the indians experienced.
I've never read the 1st book you mentioned (and I do not see me ever being able to do that - quit money - lol). However - that 2nd book - Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee - I think it should be required high school reading all over this country. Especially with so many acting like we are all so perfect OR the ridiculous number of people that think they are aware of all the atrocities committed upon the Native Americans. That book and all of its connotations stuck with me like glue, and I periodically re-read it. Since you mentioned one of the most important and meaningful books I've ever come across, I had to comment. I believe devoutly in God...but it's people like you mentioned above - those "Christians" that committed heinous acts to living breathing humans AND animals that not only make me sick but give a seriously bad name to true believers.