Back Again

I have two more weeks to cram in some more fun reading (see here). I have class starting up again in two weeks . . . two classes actually, so I'll be back to writing more about adult learning then (see here). But until then I'm going to push hard to get in more leisure reading!

To that end I went back again to an old favorite. Milo Talon by Louis L'Amour, wasn't bad, but it also wasn't good. A bit of a puzzle in the plot arena. Fun characters and an easy read, but not exceptional. I can't remember if I've read this one before or not, but we shall see!

The Earl of October drove into my life in a pale-blue Holden which had seen better days. 

I noticed the car turn in through the gateposts as I walked across the little paddock toward the house, and I watched its progress up our short private road with a jaundiced eye. Salesmen, I thought, I can do without. The blue car rolled to a gentle halt between me and my own front door. 

The man who climbed out looked about forty-five and was of medium height and solid build, with a large, well-shaped head and smoothly brushed brown hair. He wore gray trousers, a fine wool shirt, and a dark, discreet tie, and he carried the inevitable briefcase. I sighed, bent through the paddock rails, and went over to send him packing. 

Where can I find Mr. Daniel Roke?” he asked. An English voice, which even to my untuned ear evoked expensive public schools; and he had a subtle air of authority inconsistent with the opening patter of representatives. I looked at him more attentively, and decided after all not to say I was out. He might even, in spite of the car, be a prospective customer. 

“I,” I said, without too much joy in the announcement, “am Daniel Roke.” 

His eyelids flickered in surprise.

Francis, Dick - For Kicks

And since we went over book covers the other day (see here, here, and here), I'll go ahead and post these! . . . My fave? That last one!