Queering of a Game of Thrones

The Game of Thrones returns to HBO tonight.

The HBO series is much more raw when it comes to sexuality (sex sells after all). Incest seems to be acceptable as a way to keep the noble bloodlines "pure" (so long as your married to your sibling, infidelity is another matter). Infidelity, however, is frowned upon...and bastards more or less reviled.

The sociopolitical aspects of homosexuality haven't been addressed in the series yet, however, we have seen a pseudo-same-sex relationship between Dany and her slave that is more about teaching Dany how to seduce her Dothraki husband. And we have an apparently long term same-sex relationship going on between Prince Renly and Loras, Knight of the Flowers. It's a little kinky but there is definitely a loving relationship there.

Will we see more of the homosexuality that is only vaguely alluded to in the books?

A More Just World

There is an interesting essay in the New York Times by Meg Wolitzer today regarding an apparent disparity between men and women authors of literary fiction.

Ms. Wolitzer discusses how female literary authors are often relegated to the "Women's Fiction" section which is a category often associated with "chick lit" and romance novels. She also discusses how the dust covers often  differ between books written by men and those written by women.

So, why the difference? Marketing? If so, that's idiotic. What marketer would alienate an entire audience of potential readers?

In the 21st century, is there still a perceived "difference" between the sexes? Given to political environment of recent years, I would answer that with a resounding, yes! Racism is still alive and thriving, and homophobia is at the forefront of equality debates. It's not hard to make the jump to see that the "battle of the sexes" is still raging.

There is hope with the younger generations. We do see racism and homophobia and other inequalities disappearing almost exponentially with each successive generation. I have to believe that with each passing year we come to live in a "more just world".

Amazon the Publisher, Publishers the E-tailers

To start the ball rolling...

Interesting little blurb from Publisher's Weekly about the monumental changes taking place in the publishing world. The big publishing houses and book retailers are scrambling to keep their brick and mortar houses from being smashed into beach sand by Amazon. Amazon, however, is managing to keep several steps ahead of the mad dash as the book and publishing worlds enter a new Era.

Introduction

Howdy,

I'm an avid reader with eclectic tastes in books ranging from fact to fiction. I tend to read Sci-fi/Fantasy, but also venture into anthropology, science, and the classics (but NOT Steinbeck and his contemporaries!).

I should mention that I'm dyslexic, so while I love reading, it can be slow going at times depending on the reading level.

My goal here is to get at least one review a month. I would like to emphasize books with glbt and other queer characters, but given my tastes that won't always be the case. If anyone would like to add a review I would gladly accept it; except maybe reviews of erotica because, let's face it, most erotica is poorly written, has no plot, and only one purpose.

Reading and discussing books is fun, but not everyone agrees as to what constitutes a good book. I HATE Steinbeck, Hemingway, and their contemporaries. Don't like the style of write, the subjects, etc. That said, however, I won't criticize someone who happens to like a particular author. Reviews will be open for discussion, however, I would ask that respect be shown to all posters and if you like or dislike a book to please explain your position. Saying "I liked Dune" or "I hated Of Mice and Men" does little to advance the discussion. Flaming and name-calling will NOT be tolerated.

From time to time I may post links to various news stories regarding books or the book industry. It's interesting how the publishing world is changing from hard copy to e-books and Print-on-Demand. As I figure out how Blogger works, I'll see if I can get some other links, lists, suggestions, etc. on here.

Hope to see y'all.