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January 31, 2005
McSweeney's: I'm Lovin' It
In 2001, Dave Eggers released his famous memoir, A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius, the story of how, at age 22, he raised his younger brother when both his parents died of cancer. I purchased it on impulse at the Virgin Megastore Times Square because I needed something to read at the time, and liked the clever title and cover art. Ok, it might've been on sale too. Details.
Needless to say, I fell in love with it instantly. Sure, some may call Eggers pretentious...or annoying...or both, but you can't deny he's a great writer. In AHWOSG, he effectively balanced the ups and downs of his life by seamlessly mixing comedy, drama and Gen Ex apathy. Pick it up if you haven't already.
With the success of his debut book, Eggers started a publishing house called McSweeney's. Leaning towards the unconventional - and dare I say ironic - McSweeney's prints books, short stories, and journals, all with unique packaging and design. Recently, they published an online feature entitled McSweeney's Recommends, a list composed of the editors' assorted fave raves.
Here were my moments of glory (with my own abbreviated commentary):
Your local library - See, I'm not the only one.
Steely Dan - The greatest band, period.
Many hours of daylight - Amen.
ipod - Obvious, yet the magic still hasn't worn off.
Kashi Seven Whole Grains & Sesame Cereal - Get Heart To Heart. You'll never want General Mills for breakfast again.
Mos Def and Talib Kweli are Black Star - Can you go wrong with Mos Def? Really.
Stella - It made me the comedy whore I am today.
Settlers of Catan - The best medieval board game in existence, not to mention, my one true geek pleasure.
Go find yours.
Posted by Michele at January 31, 2005 10:07 PM
Comments
Although the Scottish Enlightenment should really be your #9.
Posted by: Abby at February 1, 2005 11:48 PM
