Saturday, September 25, 2010

The 14th Dalai Lama: A Manga Biography

I don't read a lot of manga. I'm old school, Marvel and DC with a spattering of independents through the years, But manga? No, not a lot of that.
Recently I was at the local library looking through the graphic novels and whatnot and I came across this thing called A Drifting Life by Yoshihiro Tatsumi. The book is freaking huge! I looked at it for weeks everytime I went to the library. Finally I checked it out.
I never should have waited. This was a wonderful book.
Because of that I decided to read The 14th Dalai Lama: A Manga Biography. The author, Tetsu Saiwai's style reminded me a little of Tatsumi's so I had that going for me. But, more importantly, is how informative this little volume is. It begins with the passing of the 13 Dalai Lama and the discovery of the 14th at the age of two. we see him butting heads with China and it brings the tale of this remarkable human being to the forefront of the brain. It's not just that smiling guy who shows up on the news from time to time. This is a rich history of a truly historical figure.
This should be required reading for any modern history course in the world.
A truly fine book on a wonderful individual.

  

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Did I Mention...?

I published a book?

It's a thriller called NAHUM. Check it out, won't you?

Thursday, September 9, 2010

DVD ROUNDUP!

 Okay, poor excuse, but school started this week so I've been running like a madman. with that being said, let's cover a few things that have appeared at The Waltz Compound.

TOM AND JERRY MEET SHERLOCK HOLMES



Um, really? This seemed like a good idea, why? Is it because of the Sherlock Holmes movie? I think it could have been money better spent on some new Tom and Jerry cartoons done old style.















BATMAN:BRAVE AND THE BOLD SEASON ONE PART ONE



My only complaint would have to be why not the entire series? Oh well, this is the best cartoon on television currently and it just keeps getting better. I hope this one has some legs and last for seasons upon seasons.
















SMALLVILLE SEASON NINE




Ya know I'm not one of those people who are a big fan of this series. I missed the suit. But, I'm a traditionalist and like things my own way. Then they threw the Wonder Twins in here and all I can say is bravo! The show could use more of this kind of thing.


















CHUCK THE COMPLETE THIRD SEASON



This is a fun show and it's smart so the geniuses over at NBC will probably cancel it. I've heard that Robert Englund of Nightmare On Elm Street fame will be making an appearance in this season's Halloween episode. Sounds good to me.
















SUPERNATURAL SEASON FIVE



Not a fan. I realize that this show has a fan base or it wouldn't be in its fifth season, but it just doesn't work for me. I liked Reaper better.