The Imperfectionists

Had a chance to actually read a book for fun recently, rather than out of duty.

I do read quite a bit, but it's usually for a class, or an audition, or it's news-worthy, or research, or some other alternate reason, so it always feels like work.

It's rare I can actually sit down and read something purely for pleasure.

It's quite a different experience, and I miss it, just being lost in someone elses' world.

Anyway, if you're looking for a fun read, I would highly recommend "The Imperfectionists" by Tom Rachman, which just came out a few months ago.

I read a review in the NY Times and it sounded really interesting , so I picked it up at the Cambridge library with my spanking new library card.

It kept me company during Act 2 of "Timon of Athens".

It's the story of an international English newspaper that resides in Rome. Each chapter is told from the perspective of a different employee of the paper, so it's almost like reading a book of interconnected short stories, each with a surprising twist, that collectively chart the beginnings and end of the newspaper.

Really enjoyable, colorful characters, and there is great wit and humor in the writing.

I'm in the middle of "Mr. Peanut" right now, a new novel about toxic marriage, murder and deadly food allergies.

Great so far.