John Knowles – A Separate Peace (1953)

Mar 09, 2010 by Mr. Nau This classic Pulitzer-winning coming-of-age story focuses on two friends, Gene and Finny, at an exclusive New England preparatory school in the early days of World War II. The push and pull of their friendship and the sometimes seething competition between the boys leads to a tragic accident. Grade: A. […]

Larry McMurtry – Literary Life (2009)

Mar 07, 2010 by Mr. Nau Larry McMurtry recounts his memories as a writer, teacher, and bookseller in this short rambling memoir that frequently wanders on tangents and lacks a cohesive focus. The book reads like a complaint about the fact that his work isn’t always reviewed or respected, despite a Pulitzer Prize and an […]

Paulo Coelho – The Alchemist (1988)

Mar 04, 2010 by Mr. Nau Santiago, a young Spanish shepherd, follows his personal legend across the Sahara to Egypt, facing poverty, sandstorms, and warring desert nomads. This short endearing allegory shows how a grand adventure to follow one’s dreams yields unexpected treasures and that hardship is a small price to pay for finding one’s […]

Elizabeth (1998)

Mar 02, 2010 by Mr. Nau Cate Blanchett and Joseph Fiennes lead an all-star cast in this historical drama about the early, uncertain years of the reign of Elizabeth I. The sense of danger surrounding the young queen is palpable. With first-rate acting and a phenomenal script, this Oscar-winner is worth multiple viewings. Grade: A. […]

The Tudors, Season 2 (2008)

Mar 02, 2010 by Mr. Nau Jonathan Rhys-Meyers, in the role of King Henry VIII, leads a magnificent cast in this second season of the critically-acclaimed Showtime historical drama. The tension heightens as he breaks with the Catholic Church, marries and becomes disillusioned with Anne Boleyn, and works to thwart the ambitions of France. Grade: […]

Rosamund & Benjamin Zander – The Art of Possibility (2002)

Mar 02, 2010 by Mr. Nau Rosamund and Benjamin Zander collaborate in this insightful self-improvement book that outlines overcoming obstacles and increasing motivation with simple, effective tips. Whether the reader is trying to improve their productivity at work or struggling to create a masterpiece artistic work, many of the principles here will inspire consistent action. […]

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