Book Reviews

Here are a few reviews of some of the books I've read lately...

The Kite Runner - This is a tough book. I mean, it's not an enjoyable read. Actually, it's rather disturbing, and takes a huge emotional investment. That said, it is an incredible story and very well written. And it is a valuable, enlightening read. Because I know so little about world geography, world history, or foreign policy (despite being a Social Studies "minor"), it was quite educational. It gives insight into pre and post 9/11 Afghanistan as well as glimpses of Pakistan. Also, it shows the plight of Afghan immigrants to America... surgeons, successful businessmen, and ambassadors who are reduced to working in gas stations and selling at flea markets. It helps to bring the Afghan people out of the shadows of a military operation, into the light of being actual humans with lives and fears and loves. It taught me a lot, and I'm glad I read it.

Walden - So, I finally read Walden. It wasn't what I expected. I thought it would be more serene and would concentrate on detailing Thoreau's day to day life in the woods. It did that, and there were some lengthy descriptions of various elements of nature. But it was very rambling and random, as well as preachy and arrogant. He absolutely believed that he had it all figured out, even though he didn't have a wife or children to provide for. However, I did really enjoy the chapter on economy and his advocacy for social change. He was astounded that people spend the prime of their lives working day and night in order to store up wealth that they would only have time to rest in and enjoy in their dying days. He didn't want any "stuff" to hinder him and force him into additional responsibility. There is so much that we can learn from his mantra of "Simplicity!" I do recommend the read.

Organic Housekeeping - This proved to be a very valuable manual. I wish that I owned it (I checked it out of the library). I didn't agree with all of her advice, particularly her uninformed bashing of raw milk, but the good substantially outweighed the bad. Now, I will probably never, ever be as anal as she is. For instance, I really don't see myself setting up a filing system in which every item in my house, from the stapler to the colander, is labeled and matched with a corresponding file card that describes its prescribed location. No thank you. But, really, this is such a thorough guide to so many household issues...very handy to have around. She just suggests snow cleaning so much that I wish we had snow more often. For now, I'll have to settle for the rain washing.

Raw Food Bars

So, I'm excited about my new culinary venture... making raw food bars. They're like Lara Bars. But Lara Bars and Organic Food Bars are so expensive! I'm trying to make the snack more cost effective. In order to do that I really need to get bulk dates, but this is a start. Here are a couple of recipes that I've made. It's really easy to tweak them. Also, I'm not anal about the raw thing because chocolate chips are tasty! Here's a blog with more detailed instructions and lots of combinations http://bunnyfoot.blogspot.com/2006/02/homemade-lara-type-bars.html

Super Yummy Raw Bar
12 dates
3 TBS peanut butter
1/3 C coconut
1/3 C oats
~25 almonds
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 TBS honey
handful of chocolate chips

Blend in a food processor. Add the chocolate chips at the end so they don't get too smashed. Smash it all into a big rectangle and refrigerate until firm. Then slice into bars. Yummy!

Key Lime Pie Bar
18 dates
1/2 C coconut
1/3 C oats
~18 almonds
lime zest
splash of lime juice
splash of tequila (why not?)

Same deal as above. And more yum.