Ace of Spades HQ

October 27, 2013

Sunday Morning Book Thread 10-27-2013: Boring, Non-Controversial Edition [OregonMuse]
— Open Blogger

Please Stand By

Good morning morons and moronettes and welcome to AoSHQ's prestigious Sunday Morning Book Thread.

I've had a busy week, so the book thread is going to be a bit sparse today. Which actually works well here, because as you probably know, orders came down from The Boss to keep things boring and non-controversial while he's off on his well-earned vacation. Meanwhile, I've found where he hides the key to the liquor cabinet and I know where his midget pr0n stash is, so I'll be busy for a while. You guys can talk amongst yourselves.

Question: Any of you electronics nerds know why early test patterns had little Indian heads in them?

Everyone's A Comedian

OK, so I think we all know that occasionally Amazon sells products that, for whatever reason, just look silly (like this thing or maybe even this one here). And so the silly reviews start to accumulate (some classic examples here, here, and, of course, here).

And, naturally, this happens with books as well. For example, How to Avoid Huge Ships brings the wiseacres scurrying out of the walls like cockroaches:

I bought How to Avoid Huge Ships as a companion to Captain Trimmer's other excellent titles: How to Avoid a Train, and How to Avoid the Empire State Building. These books are fast paced, well written and the hard won knowledge found in them is as inspirational as it is informational. After reading them I haven't been hit by anything bigger than a diesel bus. Thanks captain!

Read this book before going on vacation and I couldn't find my cruise liner in the port. Vacation ruined.

I live near a park and frequently walk around the local area. Given the amount of dog mess that is on the pavements I thought this book would be the ideal read to stop me having to scrape my shoes on the grass before going home. It was only after it arrived that I looked closely at the title and realised it said 'How to Avoid Huge SHIPS'. A simple error that means I am still treading on massive examples of canine excrement...

And of course, with a title like The 2009-2014 Outlook for Wood Toilet Seats in Greater China, you're just asking for it:

This one should not leave my dad seatless. I find the book narrative somewhat splintered. The information that it piles on left me down in the dump. Maybe they can squeeze out a sequel or just a number two.

I must say that I was not equally enchanted with the movie version of this. While I normally like Samuel L. Jackson, I just did not think he was able to pull off Mei-Zhen, Xiao's older sister. Also, some of the funnier moments in the written version just did not come through on screen. I will add that the sequel to this, "The Chinese Wood Toilet Seat that Kicked the Hornet's Nest" was not anywhere near the caliber and of the seminal first work.

All i did was look at the cover, but i already knew from the start. This is, without a doubt, still a better story than Twilight.

Non-Controversial Greetings From The AoSHQ Book Thread

And you can't get more boring and non-controversial than A Million Random Digits with 100,000 Normal Deviates by the RAND Corporation. But just because it's non-controversial doesn't mean it isn't a great book. Just read these rave reviews:

Wow! The 1,000,000 random digits produced by the Rand Corporation are some of the best random digits out there! I was amazed at some of their selections. For example: would YOU have conceived of the sequence 35462? Or 239877687468? Or 776834689765872643756324876 (one of my personal favorites). This is fine, fine work. Kudos to the folks at Rand on this most fascinating tract that truly keeps one on the edge of his seat.

Such a terrific reference work! But with so many terrific random digits, it's a shame they didn't sort them, to make it easier to find the one you're looking for.

If you like this book, I highly recommend that you read it in the original binary. As with most translations, conversion from binary to decimal frequently causes a loss of information and, unfortunately, it's the most significant digits that are lost in the conversion.

So I admit it, I got nuthin'.

YA Recommendation

Mrs. Muse and I were at the home of some church friends and I happened to notice the YA novels, The Dragon's Tooth, and The Drowned Vault, by N. D. Wilson on the side table. These are the first two in Wilson's 'Ashtown Burials' trilogy:

For two years, Cyrus and Antigone Smith have run a sagging roadside motel with their older brother, Daniel. Nothing ever seems to happen. Then a strange old man with bone tattoos arrives, demanding a specific room.

Less than 24 hours later, the old man is dead. The motel has burned, and Daniel is missing. And Cyrus and Antigone are kneeling in a crowded hall, swearing an oath to an order of explorers who have long served as caretakers of the world's secrets, keepers of powerful relics from lost civilizations, and jailers to unkillable criminals who have terrorized the world for millennia.

Both of these books are available for $2.99 on Kindle, so yeah, I bought 'em. The third in the series, Empire of Bones, has just been released.

N.D. Wilson is also the author of the '100 Cupboards' YA trilogy, book 1 of which is available here. Every one of my friends who have read this book thinks it's great, so what more recommendation do you need? After all, if you can't trust some guy on the internet, who can you trust?

___________

So that's all for this week. As always, book thread tips, suggestions, rumors, threats, and insults may be sent to OregonMuse, Proprietor, AoSHQ Book Thread, at aoshqbookthread, followed by the 'at' sign, and then 'G' mail, and then dot cee oh emm.

What have you all been reading this week? Hopefully something good, because, as I keep saying, life is too short to be reading lousy books.

Posted by: Open Blogger at 07:00 AM | Comments (152)
Post contains 1038 words, total size 8 kb.

1 Finished The Call of Earth Series by Orson Scott Card. Read The Moon Is A Harch Mistress by TANSTAAFL. Now Working On Unintended Consequences. Ironically I have had this for some time and forgot I had it.

Posted by: Vic at October 27, 2013 07:03 AM (zZbNF)

2 Ah the old test pattern. Responsible for burning into more screens than anything else in history.

Posted by: Vic at October 27, 2013 07:03 AM (zZbNF)

3 Question: Any of you electronics nerds know why early test patterns had little Indian heads in them?

I don't recall them being in the test pattern we had when I was a kid. A quick checks says they were in Canadian test patterns. Not USA.

Posted by: Vic at October 27, 2013 07:06 AM (zZbNF)

4 Dunno about the Indian head test pattern. I remember seeing them in L.A. back when stations went off for the night....

What I do no is that the first television broadcast image in the Los Angeles area was a still picture of Felix the Cat.

Posted by: MrScribbler at October 27, 2013 07:06 AM (kaGpp)

5 Any of you electronics nerds know why early test patterns had little Indian heads in them?

RACISM!!!

Posted by: Bob Costas at October 27, 2013 07:07 AM (hO8IJ)

6 Or maybe the test-pattern image was of Vic. It's been a long damn time....

Posted by: MrScribbler at October 27, 2013 07:08 AM (kaGpp)

7 re: How to Avoid Huge Ships. The last laugh is on the Amazon commenters. The book's author, Captain Trimmer, sold the movie rights for "HTAHS" to Jan de Bot for $2MM. The result? 'Speed 2' _

Posted by: BumperStickerist at October 27, 2013 07:08 AM (19AvL)

8 " A Million Random Digits with 100,000 Normal Deviates "........is it indexed?

Posted by: BignJames at October 27, 2013 07:10 AM (ZNQKl)

9 It was used in the USA and Canada.... The Indian-head test pattern became familiar to the large PostÂ–World War II baby boom TV audiences in America from 1947 onwards; it would often follow the formal television station sign-off after the United States national anthem. The Indian Head was also used in Canada, following the Canadian national anthem sign-off in the evening.

Posted by: [/i][/b][/u][/s] Tami - GO CARDS!!! at October 27, 2013 07:10 AM (bCEmE)

10 Well, I've read both of Ben Winters books, "The Last Policeman" and "Countdown City". Enjoyed them both, and hope the third one comes out soon.

Posted by: HH at October 27, 2013 07:15 AM (XXwdv)

11 The wooden toilet seat book will come in handy for Matt Schaub, while he's chillin' on the bench.

Posted by: boulder toilet hobo at October 27, 2013 07:16 AM (Z5H/V)

12 Question: Any of you electronics nerds know why early test patterns had little Indian heads in them?

I dunno, but the one you've got here looks more like a white guy in blackface wearing a headdress.

Way to be non-controversial, dude.

Posted by: Anachronda at October 27, 2013 07:17 AM (0HMaA)

13 I got nothing this week. Still working on translating a 58 page German thesis.

Posted by: boulder toilet hobo at October 27, 2013 07:17 AM (Z5H/V)

14 As part of my book group I read the first two sections of Cloud Atlas which I enjoyed a great deal. However the third section, based on what I've read so far, seems to be some nuclear power conspiracy horseshit. I'm capable of reading propaganda disguised as fiction and evaluating the writing on its merits but being asked to buy into some scientific dumbass's Luddite garbage gets a very negative reaction from me so we'll see where this goes. In Gibbon he's on to describing the later Byzantine Empire and is bitching about the official documents from one of the later Constantines; probably because they don't suck enough mooooslim cock.

Posted by: Captain Hate on the iPhone at October 27, 2013 07:17 AM (XmJVY)

15 Anyone know a good book on Baseball Rules? I know a few Sawx fans who will be getting one for Xmas.

Posted by: garrett at October 27, 2013 07:17 AM (fcWGP)

16 Finished the first 102 issues of The Walking Dead with my kid. Almost caught up to the current issue. Still liking the show better. My expectations for writing were too high for comic books.

Posted by: NCKate at October 27, 2013 07:19 AM (cdd1u)

17 1 Now Working On Unintended Consequences. Ironically I have had this for some time and forgot I had it. Be careful, it will give you some interesting ideas about what to do when the time comes. For lovers of fantasy & scifi check The Name of the Wind by Rothfuss and Reamde by Stephenson from your local library. Both are really great sagas.

Posted by: Angel with a sword at October 27, 2013 07:20 AM (hpgw1)

18 Interesting read on the test pattern Indian.... It was commissioned by RCA and done by an artist named 'Brooks'....but they can't seem to find anymore than that on it: http://tinyurl.com/ps568fd

Posted by: [/i][/b][/u][/s] Tami - GO CARDS!!! at October 27, 2013 07:20 AM (bCEmE)

19 The Indian head was used for calibration

Posted by: Velvet Ambition at October 27, 2013 07:23 AM (R8hU8)

20 What'd you think of The Moon is a Harsh Mistress, Vic? It took me a while to get over the pidgin the thing is narrated in. The computer parts were quaint, but that usually doesn't bother me much, ever since reading When the Sleeper Wakes I've not been overly affected by archaic futuristic innovations. The message was fine, I liked the main weapon, the descriptions of combat, the culture on the moon (with the exception of line marriages). What'd you think?

Posted by: .87c at October 27, 2013 07:24 AM (qZPXs)

21 I haven't really read a good book since I got promoted and started pushing paper for the Navy. I mean I read the prequel to the Godfather but that was hardly a classic

Posted by: Nevergiveup at October 27, 2013 07:26 AM (UbDLm)

22 22 Posted by: .87c at October 27, 2013 11:24 AM (qZPXs)

It is considered a classic and the reason is that it is one of the best books he ever wrote. I loved it.

Posted by: Vic at October 27, 2013 07:26 AM (zZbNF)

23 For the record, I did warn you at the time that Cloud Atlas is a load of smug anti-capitalist propaganda.

Posted by: boulder toilet hobo at October 27, 2013 07:27 AM (Z5H/V)

24 15 Anyone know a good book on Baseball Rules? I know a few Sawx fans who will be getting one for Xmas. Posted by: garrett at October 27, 2013 11:17 AM (fcWGP) *snort*

Posted by: [/i][/b][/u][/s] Tami - GO CARDS!!! at October 27, 2013 07:27 AM (bCEmE)

25 Posted by: Angel with a sword at October 27, 2013 11:20 AM (hpgw1) I have to admit that I ended up liking Reamde better than expected after the first few chapters. At least Stephenson is willing to let muslims be bad guys.

Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at October 27, 2013 07:27 AM (Pexsc)

26 I'm glad that's the 2nd edition of "How To Avoid Huge Ships", but I feel sorry for owners of the first edition who are left without the additional strategy of "...or turn left. Either way works!"

Posted by: t-bird at October 27, 2013 07:27 AM (FcR7P)

27 Gave into peer pressure (meaning you folks) and read Shift, the sequel to Wool.

Meh.

Quite a lot of it was straitjacketed by the need to interlock with Wool. Most of the interesting bits that didn't interlock with Wool were telegraphed like a Morse monkey dumping 1.21 jiggawatts into a spark gap.

BZZZAAP! BZIP! BZZZAAP! BZIP!
BZZZAAP! BZZZAAP! BZIP! BZZZAAP!

tldr version: loved Wool, thought Shift was meh.

Only found one typo, though, so there's that..

Posted by: Anachronda at October 27, 2013 07:27 AM (0HMaA)

28 Hello Rons. I read a fabulous book this week, one of the best I have ever read. It's called the Bloodletters Daughter by Linda Lafferty. A beautifully written tale of a young girl in the l16th early 17th century. There are kings and mad princes, the life of the commoner described in detail and the ability to write a sexual encounter in the most erotic none dirty fashion I have ever read. I won't write sexual encounters because I don't know how. I stop short and let the readers mind take over so they may satisfy their individual lust. This Lafferty woman? Damn., great stuff. They story itself is exciting and moves quickly with wonderful ancillary characters that you grow to care about or despise. The history in the book is real and Deals with the Hapsbergs as well as other Royalty in the time frame. I don't gush about many books. I give them a good or bad but trust me, this woman can write and her books are the real thing. I have picked up another by her called the Drowning Guard and will review it next week. Later

Posted by: Oldsailors Poet Palin/Bolton 2016 at October 27, 2013 07:28 AM (XIxXP)

29 24 I mean I read the prequel to the Godfather but that was hardly a classic

So... just training materials, then?

Posted by: Anachronda at October 27, 2013 07:29 AM (0HMaA)

Cheech: "What're you watching, man?"

Chong: "It's a movie about Indians, but it's really boring."

Posted by: BackwardsBoy, who did not vote for this shit at October 27, 2013 07:30 AM (0HooB)

31 Now Working On Unintended Consequences. Ironically I have had this for some time and forgot I had it. After talking it up here, and then reading it, I find I really can't recommend it. The first half is interesting, then it takes a very disturbing turn, which does nothing but reinforce the views of the "those gun fanatics sure are kooks" crowd.

Posted by: OregonMuse at October 27, 2013 07:31 AM (fd0Pp)

32 So I started the biography of Quincy Adams that Unger wrote: http://tinyurl.com/q3dfa7q Surprisingly narrative like and very engrossing. The story of how Adams the younger witnessed the battle of Bunker Hill has stuck with me so far. I usually prefer more in depth bios, like this one by Dumas Malone about Jefferson: http://tinyurl.com/ll4drzs Or this one by Irving Brant about James Madison: http://tinyurl.com/n8xbvm5 (You can call me crazy, but I spent $400 getting all six volumes, and I totally consider it worth it.) Also, on a side note, someone last week in our little discussion of what people should read to be a good citizen suggested Joseph Story's A Familiar Exposition on the Constitution. There are google book editions, but I'd sooner have it in a more readable format and I found it on Amazon's Kindle store here: http://tinyurl.com/lqq6nux

Posted by: David at October 27, 2013 07:33 AM (6Oj/Y)

33 Anyone know a good book on Baseball Rules? I know a few Sawx fans who will be getting one for Xmas. Posted by: garrett at October 27, 2013 11:17 AM (fcWGP) *snort* Posted by: Tami - GO CARDS!!! at October 27, 2013 11:27 AM (bCEmE) As I see it, that was a bullshit call. The Red Sox 3rd baseman was not even in the base path from third to home plate? The runner was OUT of the base path.

Posted by: Nevergiveup at October 27, 2013 07:35 AM (UbDLm)

34 The original art work was completed for RCA by an artist named Brooks on August 23, 1938. The master art was improbably discovered in a dumpster by a wrecking crew worker as the old RCA factory in Harrison, NJ was being demolished in 1970. The worker kept the art for over 30 years, and then used the Internet to locate and sell it to a test pattern collector.

Posted by: thefritz at October 27, 2013 07:35 AM (lEKuQ)

35 I mean I read the prequel to the Godfather but that was hardly a classic So... just training materials, then? Posted by: Anachronda at October 27, 2013 11:29 AM (0HMaA) NO, that would be "Seven Days in May"

Posted by: Nevergiveup at October 27, 2013 07:36 AM (UbDLm)

36 I'm wallowing in human misery this week. The Gulag Archipelago in audiobook while reading Mila 18 by Leon Uris. Quashing the little faith I have left in humanity.

Posted by: Todd W at October 27, 2013 07:36 AM (lrkg9)

37 Tanks OSP. That book is available for the Kindle for only $4.99. As soon as I an done here it will be downloaded.

http://tinyurl.com/nntxo5s

Posted by: Vic at October 27, 2013 07:36 AM (zZbNF)

38 Went to a dead tree bookstore the other day thinking I might find some decent science fiction to read. The science fiction section had shrunk to 2 1/2 shelves, and contains mostly fantasy, unless you want to count the Star Wars/ Star Trek books. Yeah, there is plenty of that crap available. I did finally find a Poul Anderson story which I hadn't read, so it wasn't a total loss. I guess they just don't do good science fiction anymore.

Posted by: Diogenes' Lamp at October 27, 2013 07:38 AM (bb5+k)

39 I'm wallowing in human misery this week. The Gulag Archipelago in audiobook while reading Mila 18 by Leon Uris. Quashing the little faith I have left in humanity. Posted by: Todd W at October 27, 2013 11:36 AM (lrkg9) Actually I love his books but they are all the same, just change the ethnicity of the players

Posted by: Nevergiveup at October 27, 2013 07:38 AM (UbDLm)

40 I won't write sexual encounters because I don't know how. I stop short and let the readers mind take over Every movie script writer should follow this advice. And thanks for your beautifully-written recommendation.

Posted by: OregonMuse at October 27, 2013 07:39 AM (fd0Pp)

41 34 After talking it up here, and then reading it, I find I really can't recommend it. The first half is interesting, then it takes a very disturbing turn, which does nothing but reinforce the views of the "those gun fanatics sure are kooks" crowd.

Posted by: OregonMuse at October 27, 2013 11:31 AM (fd0Pp)

I have to admit it is not one of the more well written books I have read. I was going to wait until I finished it before writing a review but I will say this.

It jumps around so much between individual characters so much it is hard to keep track of what is going on.

Posted by: Vic at October 27, 2013 07:39 AM (zZbNF)

42 The ebb & flow of life is a funny thing. Right before my second Dead Wife, Miss Emily, took her swandive into Eternity we discussed getting a Kindle to share. Didn't do it- didn't have the $300 they cost at the time, but discussed it. After she died I discovered Amazon's free Kindle app and installed it on her netbook- which I had reluctantly commandeered. Read nothing but ebooks for a year or two. Then my files got corrupted in a migration to a newer netbook, and I started re-reading old analog books again....

Posted by: backhoe at October 27, 2013 07:39 AM (ULH4o)

43 It's poorly executed tale, Sebastian Faulks, has somewhat of a better time, with his recent tome, A certain type of dystopia predominates like this mid 21st century offering by a German writer, Wolfgang Jeshke Cusamano's Game, of course Global warming, but nuclear accident, has made Europe go full Atwood, however buried in it, is an interesting time travel tale, ala Timeline,

Posted by: jeffrey pelt at October 27, 2013 07:41 AM (Jsiw/)

44 Posted by: Diogenes' Lamp at October 27, 2013 11:38 AM (bb5+k)

I know the feeling. Luckily, here in the KC area we have Half Price Books, a chain that deals in new and old traded in books, so the Sci-Fi section can be pretty good.

Also, when I was in Lexington KY last year, found a whole bunch of used bookstores that had some great Sci-Fi stuff...

Posted by: HH at October 27, 2013 07:43 AM (XXwdv)

45 I'm halfway through the 2nd Bracken book, Domesitc Enemies. It's good, the first book ended with a twist I didn't expect, but that makes it flow into the 2nd book. The third book goes up for free tomorrow, tell your friends. There is practical knowledge amongst the fiction, so eat your vegetables! Much like the Lloyd Tackitt Distant Eden books.

Posted by: Ben Ghazi at October 27, 2013 07:43 AM (Sm8jU)

As I see it, that was a bullshit call. The Red Sox 3rd baseman was not even in the base path from third to home plate? The runner was OUT of the base path.

Except, he wasn't. If Middlebrooks had just laid there for a second, instead of trying to trip the runner, there would have been no call.

However, even if he lay still and the runner tripped over him, it is still Obstruction. The rule is quite clear.

Posted by: garrett at October 27, 2013 07:44 AM (fcWGP)

47 Foul. Shouldn't there be an accompanying open thread?

Posted by: Boss Moss the Redskin Savage at October 27, 2013 07:44 AM (ujMoa)

48 ItÂ’s an express train Â— to the bad old days. Cops are giving homeless people and panhandlers in the subways the kid-glove treatment, arresting subterranean scofflaws far less frequently than just two years ago, data show. The ranks of the homeless, meanwhile, have swelled to 1,841 this year Â— a 13 percent increase over last yearÂ’s tally, the cityÂ’s Department of Homeless Services says. For straphangers, it has created an atmosphere of fear. Â“I feel threatened, especially taking the train at night,Â” explained Brooklynite Lortashia Smith, who said she has been followed off trains several times. Â“The police can definitely do more.Â” The NYPD said panhandler/peddler arrests in the subway have increased over the past year, with 409 pinched so far in 2013 versus 395 in 2012. But those numbers pale in comparison to 2011, when it was reported that in a six-month span that year, a whopping 930 panhandlers and peddlers Â— the two are not separated in the data Â— were arrested. Â“ThereÂ’s been a drop-off,Â” acknowledged one police source. Rudy where are you when we really need you? And with the new commie Mayor going soon it is only going to get worse. I think we in NJ should blow up all the bridges and tunnels ASAP

Posted by: Nevergiveup at October 27, 2013 07:45 AM (UbDLm)

49 13 Google Translate?

Posted by: Boss Moss the Redskin Savage at October 27, 2013 07:45 AM (ujMoa)

50 As I see it, that was a bullshit call. The Red Sox 3rd baseman was not even in the base path from third to home plate? The runner was OUT of the base path. Posted by: Nevergiveup at October 27, 2013 11:35 AM (UbDLm) I don't want to start a fight but it was textbook obstruction. You can argue that it's a stupid rule but the call was the right one based on the rule. The example they give in the rule is exactly what happened. I don't what game you watched but the runner was NOT out of the base path. Middlebroooks' legs were in the base path.

Posted by: [/i][/b][/u][/s] Tami - GO CARDS!!! at October 27, 2013 07:45 AM (bCEmE)

51 Except, he wasn't. If Middlebrooks had just laid there for a second, instead of trying to trip the runner, there would have been no call. However, even if he lay still and the runner tripped over him, it is still Obstruction. The rule is quite clear. Posted by: garrett at October 27, 2013 11:44 AM (fcWGP) EXCEPT he the 3rd baseman was NOT in the base path and the runner was OUT of the base path

Posted by: Nevergiveup at October 27, 2013 07:46 AM (UbDLm)

52 "The first half [of _Unintended Consequences_] is interesting, then it takes a very disturbing turn, which does nothing but reinforce the views of the 'those gun fanatics sure are kooks' crowd."

Likewise here. I got that sinking sickening "this is why we lose" sensation partway through that book.

It's just nutty. I can't think of a more damaging thing to put in the hands of an interested reader who hasn't yet made up their minds about Second Amendment issues.

Frankly, what the world needs is just to have the entire back catalog of NRA's _The Armed Citizen_ vignettes of self-defense compiled into book form. Fiction writing skills not required.

Posted by: torquewrench at October 27, 2013 07:46 AM (gqT4g)

53 It jumps around so much between individual characters so much it is hard to keep track of what is going on. Yeah, it does at first, but it will settle down and get more focused later on. And I agree, the actual writing is a bit sub-standard. It is obviously the work of an amateur.

Posted by: OregonMuse at October 27, 2013 07:47 AM (fd0Pp)

54 I don't what game you watched but the runner was NOT out of the base path. Middlebroooks' legs were in the base path. Posted by: Tami - GO CARDS!!! at October 27, 2013 11:45 AM (bCEmE) Look at the picture, Middlebrooks legs are bent at his knees and NOT in the base path and the runner was on the 2nd base side of third NOT in base path

Posted by: Nevergiveup at October 27, 2013 07:48 AM (UbDLm)

55 As I see it, that was a bullshit call. The Red Sox 3rd baseman was not even in the base path from third to home plate? The runner was OUT of the base path. Where the runner is running determines the base path.....check NL rules.

Posted by: BignJames at October 27, 2013 07:48 AM (ZNQKl)

56 Also, when I was in Lexington KY last year, found a whole bunch of used bookstores that had some great Sci-Fi stuff... Posted by: HH at October 27, 2013 11:43 AM (XXwdv) I used to be an avid reader, but I had more or less given it up for the last two decades. Recently I learned how much I missed it and started reading books for entertainment again. It's really hard to find decent books though. I've become so cynical that silly plots turn me off. If it doesn't have some sort of plausibility to it, I find it insufferable. Most of the used book stores in my City have closed down. I still have an Alibris account though, and generally I can find something from them. The Ebooks are okay, but I still prefer the sort with pages.

Posted by: Diogenes' Lamp at October 27, 2013 07:49 AM (bb5+k)

57 Cardinal runner on 2nd base side of third: http://nypost.com/2013/10/27/immaculate-obstruction-new-craziest-world-series-ending/ Clear as day

Posted by: Nevergiveup at October 27, 2013 07:49 AM (UbDLm)

EXCEPT he the 3rd baseman was NOT in the base path and the runner was OUT of the base path

Only, he wasn't. He just slid into the bag. His foot was touching it. He got up and ran home. He never left the base path.

Posted by: garrett at October 27, 2013 07:50 AM (fcWGP)

59 Have downloaded that book OSP, again, thanks.

Posted by: Vic at October 27, 2013 07:50 AM (zZbNF)

60 Where the runner is running determines the base path.....check NL rules. Posted by: BignJames at October 27, 2013 11:48 AM (ZNQKl) No. Runners are called out all the time for being out of the base path

Posted by: Nevergiveup at October 27, 2013 07:50 AM (UbDLm)

61 Look at the picture, Middlebrooks legs are bent at his knees and NOT in the base path and the runner was on the 2nd base side of third NOT in base path Posted by: Nevergiveup at October 27, 2013 11:48 AM (UbDLm) Check the rules....The runners base path is where the runner runs. And that's all I'm going to say here because Oregonmuse is gonna get pissed.

Posted by: [/i][/b][/u][/s] Tami - GO CARDS!!! at October 27, 2013 07:50 AM (bCEmE)

62 Only, he wasn't. He just slid into the bag. His foot was touching it. He got up and ran home. He never left the base path. Posted by: garrett at October 27, 2013 11:50 AM (fcWGP) Yeah? Look at the pic I posted.

Posted by: Nevergiveup at October 27, 2013 07:51 AM (UbDLm)

63 Check the rules....The runners base path is where the runner runs. And that's all I'm going to say here because Oregonmuse is gonna get pissed. Posted by: Tami - GO CARDS!!! at October 27, 2013 11:50 AM (bCEmE) Sorry that is not true as I said about runners are called out all the time for being out of the base path

Posted by: Nevergiveup at October 27, 2013 07:52 AM (UbDLm)

Cardinal runner on 2nd base side of third:

By that interpretation of the rules, anyone rounding third would be out of the base path, as well.

FYI - The base path isn't definitive on the field anywhere but / besides the first base 'runner's box'.

Posted by: garrett at October 27, 2013 07:52 AM (fcWGP)

65
Um....that's a Redskin test pattern, not Indian.

Posted by: Guy Mohawk at October 27, 2013 07:52 AM (nKUHR)

66 Sorry I'm late with this, I just put up an open thread of discussion of baseball rules and politics and etc.

Posted by: OregonMuse at October 27, 2013 07:53 AM (fd0Pp)

67 OM, evidently we need an open thread per Ace's new rules or a "Sports Thread".

Posted by: Vic at October 27, 2013 07:53 AM (zZbNF)

68 The base path isn't definitive on the field anywhere but / besides the first base 'runner's box'. Posted by: garrett at October 27, 2013 11:52 AM (fcWGP) So all those runners the umps call out for running out of the base path all the time are what?

Posted by: Nevergiveup at October 27, 2013 07:53 AM (UbDLm)

69 Sorry, Nevergiveup. You are dead wrong.

Posted by: garrett at October 27, 2013 07:53 AM (fcWGP)

70 Boss Moss, yeah, I have no German, so I start with Google Translate. Academic jargon is something I can clear off myself. And where he's doing his own translation of, say, a Hebrew legend then I can at least go surf and stick in someone else's translation into English.

That reminds me. I read an amusing account of Joshua ben Levi's apocalyptic visions -
http://www.sacred-texts.com/journals/jras/1893-15.htm

I saw compartments of ten miles length and of five width, full of pits of fire, and these consume the sinners, and after their destruction they are again made whole and fall again into the fire. ... They bring out afterwards the sinners from the fire just as if they had not been burnt and the fire had never touched them; and they burn them again. This they repeat seven times, three times at day and four times at night.

Basically sinners get teabagged in Jewish hell.

Posted by: boulder toilet hobo at October 27, 2013 07:53 AM (sDu3R)

71 LOL, beat me to it.

Posted by: Vic at October 27, 2013 07:53 AM (zZbNF)

72 So, ummm, maybe this is what ace was talking about?

Posted by: HH at October 27, 2013 07:53 AM (XXwdv)

73 62 Have downloaded that book OSP, again, thanks. Posted by: Vic at October 27, 2013 11:50 AM (zZbNF) I downloaded this. It was pretty good, but I found myself a little put out with the chapter on Grant. http://www.amazon.com/The-Savior-Generals-Commanders-Ancient/dp/160819163X I like Victor Davis Hansen's writing style. YMMV.

Posted by: Diogenes' Lamp at October 27, 2013 07:54 AM (bb5+k)

74 Please take the baseball discussion into the open thread.

Posted by: OregonMuse at October 27, 2013 07:54 AM (fd0Pp)

75 This book called Boston Red Sox game sounds really boring. /

Posted by: baldilocks at October 27, 2013 07:54 AM (Tnlh/)

76 Wow, they're still playing baseball? With people watching?

Posted by: Todd W at October 27, 2013 07:55 AM (lrkg9)

77 People who talk about sports in a book thread? That's a baggin'

Posted by: boulder toilet hobo at October 27, 2013 07:55 AM (sDu3R)

78 Here is a (pdf) history of the Indian Head Test Pattern... interesting, can't vouch for it but looks like the authors did some research. http://mysite.verizon.net/wmbt02446/ihtp%20restoration6.pdf Excerpt: "The Indian Head Portrait provided the needed consistency and familiarity, and along the way they learned much from studying the unwavering Chief about how to generate, control and distribute ever be tter video signals. The delic ate strands hanging from the feather tips provided high frequency response da ta. Shading details in the black hair, and textures in the white feathers visually info rmed engineers that th e entire video signal was within the proper range. The round gray b ackdrop provided quick verification that the image was being properly scanne d. The 90 degree arc of the feathers demonstrated the television systemÂ’s ability to handle detail at varying angles. Lear ning from this steady source, camera designs and their supporting si gnal circuitry changed constantly. The video signal improved dramatically, and to keep pace with their advancing art the engineers developed a more comprehensive and ri gorous test chart with calibrated circles, wedge lines, etc. The engineers also incl uded their now familiar friend, the Chief.

Posted by: no one in particular at October 27, 2013 07:55 AM (YTGKQ)

79 OOoooooohhhhhh, a baseball flame thread! Maybe later. I am reading Mark Bowden's "Killing Bin Laden". I am disappointed that it actually makes Barky seem competent and decisive. It goes through the background leading up to the raid. Compares him to President Bush and actually puts Teh JEF in a pretty favorable light.

Posted by: Truck Monkey, Gruntled New Business Owner at October 27, 2013 07:56 AM (jucos)

80 Sorry that is not true as I said about runners are called out all the time for being out of the base path According to the MLB Rule Book: OBSTRUCTION is the act of a fielder who, while not in possession of the ball and not in the act of fielding the ball, impedes the progress of any runner.

Posted by: BignJames at October 27, 2013 07:56 AM (ZNQKl)

So all those runners the umps call out for running out of the base path all the time are what?

Are you talking at 2nd base?

The runner only needs to be able to make contact with the bag and can't deviate from the path he has chosen to the bag in hopes of obstructing the fielder's throw / path to the ball.

If you leave the chosen path, (which can be 13' wide for a guy who is 6'5", centered on the bag) to avoid a tag, you will be called out.

Posted by: garrett at October 27, 2013 07:56 AM (fcWGP)

82 As the holidays approach and the holiday meals become time consuming and elaborate, you may want some time off in between the 1-2-3 full day cooking marathons. Or, after coming home from Christmas shopping, etc, and you want something healthy but quick. Here's some cookbooks I keep on hand and use frequently, on those days I just don't feel like cooking, and the grill is closed up for the winter (and the delivery food in your area sucks). The Best 30-Minute Recipe from the Editors of Cook's Illustrated. Gourmet Meals in Minutes by The Culinary Institute of America. The bon appetit: fast easy fresh cookbook Food Made Fast series by Williams-Sonoma (I have the Seafood and Asian ones, but there are so many to choose from) Simple Classics Cookbook by Williams-Sonoma (this one might be out of print, not sure, but it's worn out; every dish is perfect and delicious). And, this one is not fast, per se, but it's perfect if you do not want to mess up the kitchen and have to spend hours cleaning it. Again, delicious meals: one dish meals by the Culinary Institute of America. *I'm not a slow cooker cook.

Posted by: artisanal 'ette at October 27, 2013 07:56 AM (IXrOn)

83 Sorry, Nevergiveup. You are dead wrong. Posted by: garrett at October 27, 2013 11:53 AM (fcWGP) I don't think so and I think it was an absurd call. Hey I am a Yankee fan so I don't really have a dog in this, that that is bullshit. If Middlebrooks had laid done in the base path from 3rd to home, I'd say ok, but he dove for the ball on the second base side of 3rd and then the Cardinal for what ever reason decided to take a path to home that started on the 2nd base side of third and way on the second base side of 3rd. If he had gone into could territory as he rounded 3rd like he should have we would not be having this discussion now

Posted by: Nevergiveup at October 27, 2013 07:56 AM (UbDLm)

"After all, if you can't trust some guy on the internet, who can you trust?"

Oh, me, I trustifies the Government! Everything I've gained in life, from my oBamaPhone to my healthcare, magically emanates from them!

Posted by: LIV #6462 at October 27, 2013 07:57 AM (xehjI)

My bad, Muse.

It did start with a book joke, though.

Off to the rules thread.

Posted by: garrett at October 27, 2013 07:57 AM (fcWGP)

86 OBSTRUCTION is the act of a fielder who, while not in possession of the ball and not in the act of fielding the ball, impedes the progress of any runner. Posted by: BignJames at October 27, 2013 11:56 AM (ZNQKl) He was in the act of trying to field the ball, unsuccessfully, but he dove for it.

Posted by: Nevergiveup at October 27, 2013 07:57 AM (UbDLm)

87 Longbows have a much faster rate than crossbows.

Posted by: Boss Moss the Redskin Savage at October 27, 2013 07:58 AM (ujMoa)

88 I've already told you bums to take the baseball convo to the open thread. If you persist, I'm going to start deleting comments

Posted by: OregonMuse at October 27, 2013 07:58 AM (fd0Pp)

89 Ah I got to shower and I hate the Red Soxs anyway

Posted by: Nevergiveup at October 27, 2013 07:58 AM (UbDLm)

90
from the As I understand It files:

1. The Indian Head artwork was chosen because it gave the best test to determine whether the picture was clear.

2. The runner establishes his own base path when rounding bases. However, if previously called out, he can't deviate to obstruct the ongoing play (double play, etc). So basically its who's obstructing whom.

PS - that RedSox player was purposely lifting his legs to trip and I don't care what he says.

Posted by: Guy Mohawk at October 27, 2013 07:58 AM (nKUHR)

91 I've already told you bums to take the baseball convo to the open thread. If you persist, I'm going to start deleting comments Posted by: OregonMuse at October 27, 2013 11:58 AM (fd0Pp) What open thread?

Posted by: Nevergiveup at October 27, 2013 07:59 AM (UbDLm)

92
ooops. didn't know there was a thread below.

Posted by: Guy Mohawk at October 27, 2013 08:00 AM (nKUHR)

93 What open thread? The one I put up before the book thread. It's there, I just put it up late because I forgot.

Posted by: OregonMuse at October 27, 2013 08:01 AM (fd0Pp)

94 Hello Rons. I read a fabulous book this week, one of the best I have ever read. It's called the Bloodletters Daughter by Linda Lafferty. Posted by: Oldsailors Poet Palin/Bolton 2016 at October 27, 2013 11:28 AM (XIxXP) Thanks OSP. I just put this in my Wishlist. The reviews are almost perfect, and the books sounds intriguing and engrossing. Here's a line from the description: Inspired by a real-life murder that threatened to topple the powerful Hapsburg dynasty, The BloodletterÂ’s Daughter is a dark and richly detailed saga of passion and revenge.

Posted by: artisanal 'ette at October 27, 2013 08:01 AM (IXrOn)

95 Excerpt: "The Indian Head Portrait provided the needed consistency and familiarity, and along the way they learned much from studying the unwavering Chief about how to generate, control and distribute ever better video signals. The delicate strands hanging from the feather tips provided high frequency response data. Posted by: no one in particular at October 27, 2013 11:55 AM (YTGKQ) Cool. That bit about the Strands is exactly right. Small vertical lines produce high frequency pulses and their visibility is directly related to the high frequency response of the amplifiers carrying the signal.

Posted by: Diogenes' Lamp at October 27, 2013 08:01 AM (bb5+k)

96 ooops. didn't know there was a thread below. Posted by: Guy Mohawk at October 27, 2013 12:00 PM (nKUHR) There wasn't. It is a late addition. Will of course comply but next time you should put them up together

Posted by: Nevergiveup at October 27, 2013 08:02 AM (UbDLm)

97 The song's author John Loudermilk told the syndicated radio program "American Top Forty" a tall tale about how he was taken prisoner by Cherokee Indians once, and released only after he promised to write a song dramatizing their plight. The ruse went undetected for years. Loudermilk told the fib in response to being woken up after midnight by a telephone call from one of the show's writers.

http://tinyurl.com/86jc6ta

Indian Reservation (The Lament of the Cherokee Reservation Indian)

Posted by: LC LaWedgie at October 27, 2013 08:02 AM (0It32)

98 There wasn't. It is a late addition. Will of course comply but next time you should put them up together You're right. Next time, I will remember.

Posted by: OregonMuse at October 27, 2013 08:04 AM (fd0Pp)

99 Hate: Constantine V (r. 750ish), probably. The records from his time suck. He was an iconoclast, see, and when the iconodoules took over again all they kept from his reign was a tract written *against* him. This tract is pretty much just quoted in the histories by Theophanes (to be fair, he also has a Syrian source for this time), Nicephorus and George the Monk.

Posted by: boulder toilet hobo at October 27, 2013 08:04 AM (sDu3R)

100 Yesterday I finally got my copy of "Wallops Station and the Creation of an American Space Program" by Harold D. Wallace, Jr. It's a NASA publication and I ordered it on Sept. 23. When the government shutdown began on Oct. 1, I still expected to get it in a few days. "Surely they must have shipped it by now." After a week went by I knew they hadn't. The postmark was Oct. 22, so it took them nearly two weeks to ship it, not counting the shutdown. Wallops Island Station, near Chincoteague, VA was established in 1945 and as far as I can tell was the first dedicated rocket launching facility in the United States, predating White Sands, NM by a few months and Cape Canaveral by five years. But unlike the other two sites, they didn't test rockets and missiles at Wallops. In the early years, it was actually used for aeronautical research. In the late 40s and early 50s, transonic and supersonic wind tunnels did not yet exist. What they did was attach small instrumented airplane models to solid-fueled rockets and launch them at high speeds. Many different kinds of airplanes in the early jet age were tested in this way. By the mid-50s, wind tunnel technology had caught up and this type of testing was no longer necessary. The book mainly covers the period of the late 50s and early 60s, after NACA became NASA. Then Wallops was used to test the launch escape system for Project Mercury, and some satellites were also launched from there. From the late 60s on it was mainly used to launch small suborbital rockets for atmospheric research. There was even talk of closing the base in the 90s. Then the state governments of Virginia and Maryland stepped in and built the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport at Wallops on land leased from NASA. In 2006, orbital launches resumed. In September 2013 Wallops saw the launches of a Moon mission and an ISS cargo mission, both firsts from that location. I find it exciting that Wallops is finally becoming a serious spaceport after all these years. Oh right; this is a book thread. Sorry for the digression. The book is available for free online, but being the dinosaur/packrat that I am, I had to buy the dead tree edition. http://history.nasa.gov/SP-4311/sp4311.htm

Posted by: rickl at October 27, 2013 08:04 AM (sdi6R)

101 http://www.amazon.com/Perdition-Line-Sand-Olen-Baker-ebook/dp/B00ESMNXH8
A peek at a near future when all of the Liberal policies of American Politicians have succeeded in erasing poverty, applying laws fairly to citizens, and embracing international laws that put us on equal footing with the rest of the world. A Utopia that only the paranoid and irrational would struggle against as their way of life is taken from their Cold Dead Hands.

Posted by: Texas Son at October 27, 2013 08:06 AM (iRNDY)

102

If there are any John Sandford fans he has a new Virgil Flowers book out.

It's titled "Storm Front."

Posted by: ExSnipe at October 27, 2013 08:07 AM (57ubW)

103 Hi again. Just got back from walking the dog. Wow, I didn't know use guys took my reviews that ceral. I am honored. I am ceral about that book, it's a joy.

Posted by: Oldsailors Poet Palin/Bolton 2016 at October 27, 2013 08:11 AM (XIxXP)

104 That history of the Indian Head is pretty interesting: the originals nearly got trashed- a construction worker saw them and took them home. There are apparently fully restored versions now- going to try to find them.

Posted by: no one in particular at October 27, 2013 08:12 AM (YTGKQ)

105 If there are any John Sandford fans he has a new Virgil Flowers book out.

It's titled "Storm Front."

Posted by: ExSnipe at October 27, 2013 12:07 PM (57ubW)

--------

I love Virgil Flowers. I have the book on reserve from the library. I'm number three on the list so it shouldn't be too long.

Posted by: mama winger at October 27, 2013 08:18 AM (P6QsQ)

106 That test pattern was used in every opening episode of the original "The Outer Limits".

Posted by: HH at October 27, 2013 08:20 AM (XXwdv)

107 where his midget pr0n stash is,

Thanx to da intertoobz we no longer need giant pr0n stashes.

Posted by: DaveA with a little joke at October 27, 2013 08:22 AM (DL2i+)

108 I've been reading the books that I got with my WorldCon membership, and the books that I got with my FenCon membership, which were leftovers from those handed out at WorldCon. (I now have two copies of a book titled Redlaw. Whatever will I do with them?) This week, the "free" WorldCon book is King Maker "The Knights of Breton Court 1" by Maurice Broaddus which appears to be a retelling of the legend of King Arthur in terms of urban youth gangs. It's set in Indianapolis and I am So not in their target audience. However, it's worth at least what I paid for it. The other book I'm reading as titled The Gathering Flame by Debra Doyle and James D. McDonald. It says it's the prequel to "Mageworlds" which I'd never heard of. I got this book from the book group that I attend the third Monday of every month and came recommended by one of the regulars. It's not bad, but it's got some stylistic issues.

Posted by: JonathanG at October 27, 2013 08:23 AM (aYOnh)

109 That test pattern was used in every opening episode of the original "The Outer Limits". Posted by: HH at October 27, 2013 12:20 PM (XXwdv) What I always found interesting abot the twilight zone, the outer limits, tales of the unexpected etc, is most of those were short stories written by some of the masters.

Posted by: Oldsailors Poet Palin/Bolton 2016 at October 27, 2013 08:23 AM (XIxXP)

110 An autobiographical book by Governor Scott Walker has just been published.

From the blurbs:

"Three years into his tumultuous first term, as he prepares to run for re-election and perhaps position himself for a presidential run in 2016, Scott Walker remains a puzzle to even some of his closest observers. He is, after all, a hard-edged conservative who talks about being a "champion to the vulnerable"; a fiscal conservative who disdains the politics of austerity; as well as a master communicator who sometimes fails to make his case.

His new book is unlikely to satisfy his critics or dispel all of the mystery behind the man we should know so much better. But it is a start.

Unintimidated: A GovernorÂ’s Story and a NationÂ’s Challenge (Sentinel Books), is an attempt not merely to tell the story of his battle over Act 10, but to define "Walkerism" and to sharply differentiate its style and philosophy from those of other leading Republicans, especially failed presidential candidate Mitt Romney."

Posted by: mama winger at October 27, 2013 08:24 AM (P6QsQ)

111 Here's a link to the Scott Walker book thing:

http://www.rightwisconsin.com/perspectives/229443861.html

Posted by: mama winger at October 27, 2013 08:25 AM (P6QsQ)

112 I just proofread an article by my wife for the "Tar Heel Junior Historian" an NC Museum of Nat. History publication for yoots. I was given permission to edit, revise any way I saw fit, but it was fine. Anyone want to know about Selma Burke?

Posted by: Lincolntf at October 27, 2013 08:27 AM (ZshNr)

113 Posted by: mama winger at October 27, 2013 12:24 PM (P6QsQ) I have met Scott Walker on several occasions and have had the opportunity to speak with him one on one while he was County Executive of Milwaukee. The thing that screws people up most when it comes to trying to figure him out, is that he is exactly who he appears to be. To a jaded media and populice, that is a problem.

Posted by: Oldsailors Poet Palin/Bolton 2016 at October 27, 2013 08:27 AM (XIxXP)

114 Anyone want to know about Selma Burke? Posted by: Lincolntf at October 27, 2013 12:27 PM (ZshNr) When a ron's spouse commits an act of Journalism it should be linked.

Posted by: Oldsailors Poet Palin/Bolton 2016 at October 27, 2013 08:30 AM (XIxXP)

115 It still exists only on printer paper. It's for the next issue.

Posted by: Lincolntf at October 27, 2013 08:31 AM (ZshNr)

116 Must go walk other dog. Later.

Posted by: Oldsailors Poet Palin/Bolton 2016 at October 27, 2013 08:31 AM (XIxXP)

117 The thing that screws people up most when it comes to trying to figure him out, is that he is exactly who he appears to be. To a jaded media and populice, that is a problem.

Posted by: Oldsailors Poet Palin/Bolton 2016 at October 27, 2013 12:27 PM (XIxXP)

--------

Absolutely. He is just a very nice, thoughtful, reasonable man. I've met him on several occasions too, and he spent some time with my son over in Kosovo when he visited some WIsconsin troops over there. Just a good man doing a good job.

Posted by: mama winger at October 27, 2013 08:33 AM (P6QsQ)

118 Posted by: Oldsailors Poet Palin/Bolton 2016 at October 27, 2013 12:27 PM (XIxXP) That's cool to know. I kind of feel the same way about Mark Sanford. He seems to be very much a level headed guy who focuses on civil service. For all I know, he could be a seething lying scumbag, but when I've spoken with him, he's always felt very genuine. So he's either the best kind of politician or the absolute worst. I get the feeling that Walker is the same way, and considering that both of them have never changed deeply held believes (yet), I'm going to lean towards the former.

Posted by: David at October 27, 2013 08:33 AM (6Oj/Y)

119 Posted by: Oldsailors Poet Palin/Bolton 2016 at October 27, 2013 12:23 PM (XIxXP)

Indeed! As a matter of fact, I pulled out my collection of Outer Limits DVD's just to make sure about the test pattern, and lo and behold the episode I grabbed was "Demon with a Glass Hand", written by Harlan Ellison. I pretty much read all of his stories when I was in HS, and I also read collections of "Twilight Zone" stories at the same time.

Lemme tell you, "It's a Good Life!" is one hell of a creepy story, much more than the TZ episode.

Posted by: HH at October 27, 2013 08:34 AM (XXwdv)

120 The wooden toliet seat book costs $495. That seems a bit high. Think of how many wooden toliet seats you could buy for that amount of money.

Posted by: Donna V. sez yay Cards at October 27, 2013 08:34 AM (R3gO3)

121 The test pattern was indeed a "test" pattern used by the engineers.

This was tube electronics and constantly needed adjustments. An engineer could take a quick look at a test pattern (especially the Indian Head) and know something needed adjustment.. aspect ratio was also tested and tuned using the pattern. They constantly re-tuned the cameras to this test pattern internally at TV stations.

The Indian head part of the one at the top of this thread is pretty crappy and loses a lot of the detail an engineer of the time would be looking for.

Posted by: Chi-Town Jerry at October 27, 2013 08:34 AM (b/lt+)

122

Found a copy of Andrew Breitbart's Righteous Indignation (hardcover) in the clearance section of Office Depot a couple of days ago. Marked down to 5.99, more off at the register, total cost: 1.09. Best damn thing that's happened in a looooong time.

Man, we sure lost a lot when he died.

Posted by: joanne tea party wackobird jihadist at October 27, 2013 08:34 AM (s/quq)

123 I'm re-reading Irwin Shaw's The Young Lions. It is a powerful novel of WWII that was made into an emasculated Hollywood movie.

Posted by: WalrusRex at October 27, 2013 08:35 AM (PjgvN)

124

Victor Davis Hanson's "Carnage and Culture." A page turner and one hundered percent bullshit free.

Posted by: Libra at October 27, 2013 08:36 AM (GblmV)

125 90 Longbows have a much faster rate than crossbows. Posted by: Boss Moss the Redskin Savage at October 27, 2013 11:58 AM (ujMoa) Dagnabbit, I was going to post a link to a book on longbows I saw referenced in an appendix in Bernard Cornwell's book 'Agincourt', but I forgot. Maybe next week.

Posted by: OregonMuse at October 27, 2013 08:36 AM (fd0Pp)

126 107 That history of the Indian Head is pretty interesting: the originals nearly got trashed- a construction worker saw them and took them home. There are apparently fully restored versions now- going to try to find them. Posted by: no one in particular at October 27, 2013 12:12 PM (YTGKQ) Fascinating article. Thanks!

Posted by: rickl at October 27, 2013 08:45 AM (sdi6R)

127 The link is in 107's name.

Posted by: rickl at October 27, 2013 08:47 AM (sdi6R)

128 Crap. After downloading that book said something to wifey and she reminded me that our old credit card had been cancelled when they issued a new one and I had not updated Amazon. I sent them an e-mail after I updated it. Hope they don't come and get my book.

Posted by: Vic at October 27, 2013 08:53 AM (zZbNF)

129 Miss Kay, the matriarch on "Duck Dynasty," has a cookbook coming out on Nov 5.

"Miss Kay's Duck Commander Kitchen: Faith, Family, and Food Â– Bringing Our Home to Your Table"

http://tinyurl.com/o53fw5g

Posted by: mama winger at October 27, 2013 08:53 AM (P6QsQ)

130 Elbows up

Posted by: Vic at October 27, 2013 08:56 AM (zZbNF)

131 Re: 105 "Storm Front" I just finished it. Classic Sandford treatment of "that f***ing Flowers," but the plot was *way* out there. Stolen Israeli archeological artifacts, real & fake Mossad agents, CIA types, etc. Traditional contempt for the TV folks. Good read if you like Sandford, but I prefer his other Flowers books for their more sensible plots. Not one of his best.

Posted by: Doug at October 27, 2013 09:00 AM (KeljQ)

132 So... after the disappointment of Shift, I started into Charles Stross's Saturn's Children. Things were going OK until: I don't know if anyone examined the long-term consequences of discontinuing carbon sequestration and ceasing maintenance of the orbital solar reflectors ... we have long since become accustomed to climactic [sic; should be climatic] disruption; we are made of tougher stuff than our Creators. Sigh. Can't imagine that'll be important to the plot.

Posted by: Anachronda at October 27, 2013 09:01 AM (aYJgz)

133 One of my reviews is up on avoiding huge ships. 10 of 11 people found the following review helpful 3.0 out of 5 stars Bittersweet, February 2, 2013 This review is from: How to Avoid Huge Ships (Paperback) As I was relaxing in my rowboat, engrossed in the book I was struck by a huge ship. There should be a disclaimer

Posted by: UWP at October 27, 2013 09:07 AM (fdXMW)

134 And another of my reviews: 68 of 75 people found the following review helpful 5.0 out of 5 stars This book changed my life, November 14, 2012 Edit Review Delete Review This review is from: The Gospel According to Apostle Barack: In Search of a More Perfect Political Union as "Heaven Here on Earth" (Paperback) I had always felt my life was worthless and had no purpose until I lucked upon this book. Sure, I had built my own business, employed thousands, tithed 20% to my (other) church. But it all felt so empty. As I sat in my chair one night, browsing Amazon, with a gun in my mouth I accidentally clicked a link to this book and it felt as if the hand of Barack had sent a bolt of lightning up my leg. I now know what I must do. Last week I voted for revenge against the capitalists who destroy jobs, sold my business and donated all of the proceeds to Solyndra. Can't wait to see what my future holds!

Posted by: UWP at October 27, 2013 09:09 AM (fdXMW)

135 Finished Larry Correia's Swords of Exodus, the sequel to Dead Six this week. When I last reported on it, I was about a third of the way through, and thought "good stuff, worth reading, not up to his absolute best", but that opinion is due for an upgrade. The last third of the book is an extended battle portrayed in vivid fashion; it completely pulled me in and made me intensely feel what the characters were feeling. Really amazing. Definitely recommended.

Posted by: Splunge at October 27, 2013 09:09 AM (bKA83)

136 AND: 9 of 10 people found the following review helpful 3.0 out of 5 stars Poor documentation, February 2, 2013 Edit Review Delete Review This review is from: Hutzler 571 Banana Slicer (Kitchen) Had there been proper documentation I would not have had to return my broken banana slicer. A warning to anyone who buys this, peel the banana first to prevent it from jamming up and breaking. Comment Comment | Permalink

Posted by: UWP at October 27, 2013 09:10 AM (fdXMW)

137 I'm almost done with The Incrementalists, a new SciFi release which I purchased because I like stories about a few people with the ability to nudge history forward. It has turned into a psycho-drama with very little action. I am 85% done and feel like I have to see it through to the end, but the election 2000 sucker punches have turned me sour. I also took a long road trip last week and listened to half of Michael Crichton's Micro, finished by someone else after his death. Meh. Life is too short for bad books, somebody feed me some good new SF.

Posted by: motionview at October 27, 2013 09:14 AM (2yPl+)

138 Libra, I love Carnage and Culture too. I often pick it up just to read an individual chapter or two. My favorites are Rorke's drift and Cortes. Great book!

Posted by: Captain's daughter at October 27, 2013 09:17 AM (MEOHJ)

139 The absolute funniest wiseass Amazon review was the Tuscan Milk review done by "Edgar": http://www.amazon.com/review/RXXPVOUH9NLL3 As in, Edgar Allan Poe. I believe it was Christina H. at Cracked who compiled it. Funny stuff, and that was the crowning jewel. There was a link some time ago (on an overnight thread, I think) which linked to a blog linking several different ones and it wasn't nearly as funny. (Especially the one linking reviews to the shoes that Abortion Barbie happened to be wearing during her attention-whoring adventure. Those were largely rabid fauxminist sheeple slobbering over Abortion Barbie and wouldn't have been funny even if I thought killing children was the only womens' right in existence)

Posted by: Saber Alter at October 27, 2013 09:56 AM (8V74Y)

140 Also, I will have to check out the YA novels, they sound very interesting. The most recent YA novel in my library is the last instalment of Michael Scott's Alchemyst series. It has a few flaws here and there, but personally I would recommend the series.

Posted by: Saber Alter at October 27, 2013 10:00 AM (8V74Y)

141 I finished Killing Jesus by Bill O'Reilly. Very pleasantly surprised by how good it was. Highly recommended.

Posted by: Blacksheep at October 27, 2013 10:01 AM (bS6uW)

142

Reading "Concierge Confidential" by Michael Fazio. Entertaining enough, but not one I would buy - got it from the library.

Reading "The Book of Matt" about the Matthew Shepherd murder, and it's quite good. I got it from the library, but as true crime goes, it's probably good enough to buy.

Re-reading "The Stand", the elongated version, and I'm still not sure why.

And listening to "The Looming Tower" in the car. Quite good, of course, and very informative.

I have Atlas Shrugged on CD on reserve at the library. I've never heard any of it read aloud so we'll see how much tolerance I have for long speeches (except Francisco's at Hank Rearden's big party which I will always love and be willing to read).

82, I had the same reaction to listening to "Killing Bin Laden." Knowing that that picture is a total fraud, I couldn't even finish the book and finally just hit the eject button and returned it to the library.

And to whoever mentioned One Dish Meals by the CIA, thank you! That looks to be right up my alley.

Posted by: Tonestaple at October 27, 2013 10:16 AM (3yidV)

143

Oh, and I put "The Bloodletter's Daughter" on hold at the library for next spring. Can't tell you how many good books I have gotten from you guys and how much I look forward to the book thread every week.

Posted by: Tonestaple at October 27, 2013 10:17 AM (3yidV)

144 Just finished Black List by Brad Thor. Plot was OK, but the topic of total surveillance by your government was pretty scary!

Posted by: Hrothgar Establishment RINO at October 27, 2013 10:18 AM (XdnQT)

145 Recently finished "Chaos Quarter" by David Welch, good book, wouldn't mind a sequel. Recently finished "Wings of Steele" by Jeffrey Burger, meh. The biggest problem is the hero can do no wrong. There is a sequel but I won't be buying it. Recently finished "Scrapyard Ship" that has 3 authors, another meh. Now started on Sara King's Forging Zero series on the recommendation of another moron (EoJ as it happens) and I hope it picks up soon. In the queue is "Far from Home" by Tony Healey. I'll have to check into Perdition (I'm hoping that description is "ironic") and Bloodletter's Daughter, thanks for the recommendations.

Posted by: GGE of the Moron Horde, NC Chapter at October 27, 2013 10:57 AM (yh0zB)

146 Splunge - I love Correia's stuff. He isn't the best writer around, but he is a hell of a storyteller.

Posted by: Brad at October 27, 2013 11:44 AM (B5hux)

147 Just started the Black Company books by Glen Cook. They were given great reviews by Jim Butcher of the Dresden Files books. So far, they're ok, but nothing great.

Posted by: RightWingProf at October 27, 2013 11:49 AM (ceOhI)

148 I love those RightWingProf, and have reread them at least 2-3 times. But looking back I can't pick out a single book in the series that I would say was really great. I think it's more that Cook made a set of great characters that he stays true to throughout the series. The action is always there, but it's almost secondary to the character interactions. That's my $.02 anyway.

Posted by: Brad at October 27, 2013 12:15 PM (B5hux)

149 "The Bloodletter's Daughter" is on my to read list, OSP. This week I read "Graceling" a YA fantasy by Kristin Cashore. I've also read two books of The Demon Cycle and am finishing up the third book today. It's an interesting fantasy series by Peter V. Brett. It's a dystopian world plagued by corelings (demons) who rise up at night and slaughter unprotected villagers. The world is awaiting the return of the Deliverer to start the war against the corelings and save mankind. I also received my copy of "Allegiant," but I'm waiting to start that until my in-laws head home. I don't want to be rude and disappear into a book.

Posted by: no good deed at October 27, 2013 12:22 PM (k55Fc)

150 Finally pulled the trigger on the Kindle version of Black Shoe Carrier Admiral. Always been interested in Frank Jack Fletcher, the commander of the American forces at Coral Sea.

Posted by: Buddha at October 27, 2013 12:44 PM (8NlUk)

151 Guess it's time to close this thread.

Posted by: Vic at October 27, 2013 02:43 PM (zZbNF)

152 #102 Sorry to be responding so late in a very dead thread (although I know some morons of the book keep checking this) but it was Constantine VII or Porphyrogenitus who died in 959.

Posted by: Captain Hate on the iPhone at October 27, 2013 05:34 PM (Wmj3W)

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