Goodreads Favorite Book of 2009 is a Joke

As some of you may know I occasionally go off topic and discuss books and my joy of reading.  I thought I had found the perfect website to accompany it: http://www.goodreads.com/.  You will note I have a link to the site (left column).

However, I just received the Goodreads January newsletter and I have to say I am sorely disappointed.  The winner of the favorite book of 2009 goes to "Catching Fire" by Suzanne Collins.  With all due respect to Ms. Collins and her readers, the book is clearly in the YOUNG ADULT series.  So, based upon the discerning tastes of thousands of Goodreads readers, some kids book is considered the best of the year?!?!  Come on people.  How mature must you be to find a children's book to be deserving of top honors?

I know several adults who have read the Harry Potter and the Twilight series.  I have no complaints if someone occasionally slips in some reading which otherwise might be considered junk food for the brain.  But to nominate this rubbish for an adult bookreader's award?  Outrageous.  There are many other worthy candidates out there (consider the runner-up for the award:  "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett).

Let's support those authors who make a worthy and lasting contribution to society and leave the kids' books to kids.  The Goodreads' poll had young adults and childrens categories.  Those awards should be sufficient.

Chicago Adds New Jazz Club

Chicago is about to get another jazz venue.  Greg Pasenko and his wife, Diane Delin, are in the process of renovating a site at 1540 West North Avenue into the Club Blujazz.  Pasenko and Delin run the Blujazz label.  It is expected that the club will spotlight their music, as well as other local and national artists.

For more information, click here.