Norwegian Wood: Chopping, Stacking, and Drying Wood the Scandinavian Way

 by Lars Mytting

This book was a recommendation of a friend who shares a Norwegian heritage. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it, and how much I learned. Who knew there was so much to know about wood for heating homes?! Throughout the book I found myself longing for a home with a good wood stove in it (and access to forests) - maybe some day... until then I will have to content myself with the occasional wood felling and burning at the cabin.

Glory Season

by David Brin

 

An interesting premise for this sci-fi work, a world where women are in control and men are second rate citizens. The question in such a scenario is "would such a world be a better, more peaceful place?" Brin paints a highly detailed picture incorporating cloning, pastoralism and outside influence (in the form of a visitor from space). The conclusion seems to be that such a world would look more peaceful externally, but would still be fraught with inner tensions. It also makes a case for neither male nor female domination of the other, but of a partnership and valuing of each individual's strengths. Brin is the favourite author of a friend who recommended I give his books a try - I was glad to have read this one.