On Thursday, October 22nd 2009, I went to my first ever reading. As I was told about the event by Professor Bergman, I had no idea what kind of event I was going to. As I entered the room filled with other Macaulay students and Baruch faculty members, I still remained clueless. However, as Joseph O'Connor took the stand after a bunch of introductions, I realized where I was, at a reading. Honestly, I had no idea who this guy was because I have never heard of any of his books nor writings. However, I'd have to say that I was quite bored with the reading.

           Last week I went uptown to John Jay College of Criminal Justice to hear from former federal prosecutor, Paul Butler. He was a highly educated and well spoken man, capable of convincing anyone in the room, or at least leave one to question their initial thoughts on the matter. Paul was there to discuss the issues featured in his book, Let's Get Free: A Hip Hop Theory of Justice. He was exceptionally moving and persuading. Butler used music, specifically hip hop, to illuminate the injustices served to minority groups.

 Everyone in attendance was enticed by renowned author Joseph's O'Connor humor, wit, charisma, confidence and undoubtedly, his accent. He sounded like an older Porfessor O'Malley. He was interesting and very entertaining to listen to. His stories about dreary Ireland reminded me of the autobiography "Angela's Ashes" by another renowned Irish author, late Frank McCourt. All his talk of Patty Smith gave everyone a good laugh. All of his readings were powerful and some very funny. He read every word with conviction and clarity.

I am writing this blog to respond to Sara's blog about Where the Wild Things Are. I saw the moive when it first came out. From watching the previews I thought I would be seeing a happy childrens movie. I read the book as a child and loved the story. The book has only 32 words in it. I thought the whole movie would be a happy story about the little boy finding the wild things and having fun with them but ulitimately learning that home is the place to be. Because the book was so short, a new story had to be filled in. I found the movie very depressing and sad.