Customer Reviews

Bright Orange Sweater-Coat: Fiction and Nonfiction

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

When I picked up Mr. Goddard's book, I expected some well written, well thought out essays, and enjoyable stories. These I found. What I also found was writing which contained surpising wisdom, considering the unassuming title. I continually find myself thinking back to one piece or another in this work, as a reference in life. From refreshing perspectives on life in politics to thoughtful analogies about God and romance, this book contains such a wealth and variety of wisdom.
That is why I gave it five stars. I have read many books of many varieties, but I know this one will not simply be shuffled amnong them in my mind, but had created an indellible mark on my thinking.

The author of this book, whose writing chops appear to have been honed primarily by his experiences as editor of his college newspaper, presents the face of a person who is both self-aware and soul-searching, but against the larger context of the recycled right wing tripe (Republican = Christian; Democrat = Atheist; No other options exist) he publishes on his personal weblog, the projected circumspection is frankly difficult to believe. The single most effective line in the entire volume: "If nothing else...when this is all over I'll be able to say that I spent the night in a Mexican jail." This bit of dark humor is overshadowed by the poorly executed "Blue-Haired Conservative," a piece largely composed of self-important boasting ("Ooh, look at me, I'm gnarly AND a republican AND totally original!") and personal propaganda. If that sort of writing turns your crank, by all means, buy this book.

Mr. Gottard outdid himself this time. The book contains many unforgetable tales that anyone with a modicum of goodsense and humor can relate to. My only complaint is that I find the book's conservative dogma troubling, but what can one expect from America's next O'Reilly. Honestly, I'm waiting for the O'Goddard factor. It should be a real hoot! (hoot being an allusion to the owl, the universal symbol of wisdom) Not only does the book relay insightful stories, but the lessons are beyond this world! Literally, one can feel a strong sense of the trascendent within these pages. Lovely, absolutely lovely. I'd give the author a kiss if I only could!