I'm currently reading the Dresden books by Jim Butcher. They're the basis for the show on the SciFi channel, but the books are a lot better--more detailed, more textured.
The Last King, I have read and researched, great book. Also read a lot about Sulla the Roman General.I have read Tides of War -- a great book also. I haven't read Virtues of War, but it is on my "to do" list.
In a similar vein, I'm looking at reading Michael Curtis Ford -- The Ten Thousand, The Last King, The Sword of Attila. I am especially interested in The Ten Thousand, which involves one of my favorite events in history.
Well, the first book was the best, but all 4 were very good. The ending was perfect, but the last book got a little out in left field before it was brought home. This series is very emotional, and character development is awesome, but it doesn't make my top 10 SF series list...Just about done with the first book - Hyperion. Amazing. I had no idea that Simmons was this good, and I have never experienced better character development. When reading one chapter last night, I was surprised to feel tears running down my face, so connected to the characters had I become.
I hope that the entire series is this good...
I just finished Gates of Fire and I'm nearly halfway through Tides of War. Both are excellent.I have read Tides of War -- a great book also. I haven't read Virtues of War, but it is on my "to do" list.
In a similar vein, I'm looking at reading Michael Curtis Ford -- The Ten Thousand, The Last King, The Sword of Attila. I am especially interested in The Ten Thousand, which involves one of my favorite events in history.
What is your take on the Yergin book? I remember reading "The Prize" and being knocked out by it.I have four going at the moment:
The Commanding Heights by Daniel Yergin
I love Yergin. I've read The Prize and Russia 2010. Like all his books, I read them at least twice -- breaking out the highlighter and jotting notes throughout the books.What is your take on the Yergin book? I remember reading "The Prize" and being knocked out by it.
Thanks for the in-depth synopsis. Sounds like another winner from Yergin.I love Yergin. I've read The Prize and Russia 2010. Like all his books, I read them at least twice -- breaking out the highlighter and jotting notes throughout the books.
The Commanding Heights: the Battle for the World Economy is a great read for those interested in economic history. He basically traces every major country's economic policy over the last century or so. And there's a basic theme: countries that insist on having government interfere in the marketplace are crushed under the weight of their own incompetence. Countries that have a respect for free markets, private property, the rule of law, etc. flourish.
England before and after Thatcher is incredible striking.
For those well-versed in economics these points are obvious. For me, it's just more ammunition. I can say to someone, "Ok. You never studied economics, but can you at least understand history?"
Of course, all this history is lost on our politicians who try (usually successfully) to trick the public into believing that a larger government role is beneficial.