Read 10 books in 2008

The modern story of a true geisha, the only time in the 300-year history of geisha that a woman has come forward to tell her story. Fascinating.

An excellent book, a bit dated now, about Patty’s continuing struggle with bipolar illness.

Interesting but lightweight book by one of the premiere women in gambling (mostly video poker), or perhaps I should say premiere I-can-get-stuff-for-free. Her comps don’t really work for the rest of us peons, but it’s still interesting.

Really unsettling true account of a psychiatrist dealing with her own bipolar illness. Really well written and involving.

A rather frightening story of a young man who gives up his bank account, abandons his family, and goes to Alaska.

Of course, Kelsey Grammer is “Frasier,” and has been for many years.

This autobiography covers his early years, how he got onto Cheers and eventually Frasier.

Very revealing, but leaves chunks and chunks of information out of the book, such as, how did he get into the cocaine habit? Other than that, quite entertaining.

This was surprisingly an easy read, even though the author had no structure for the telling of this tale. Still, reading about one of the most selfish athletes, maybe even human being, ever to have lived is just fascinating.

Written originally in 1945, this is a novel about a dwarf at court. He’s self-serving, and hates all of mankind, and it’s easy to be caught up in his vitriol. I didn’t care for this novel at all.

This is almost cheating: it’s a short story (but a long one).

And this short story has more impact than most novels. Incredible writing.

This is Julie’s first autobiography, which covers the her childhood and the first part of her career. Enchanting and surprisingly honest. Highly recommended.