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Light Years by James Salter, Preparations for the Next Life by Atticus Lish. i love devastatingly sad books too.

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Yes! Preparations is amazing. I have not heard of Light Years. Adding it to my list to pick up. Keep those recs coming!!

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Is Charlotte's Web too on the nose? There's something about death as a theme in children's literature that just sticks with you; like, the first time you consider it as a possibility. I just got pretty sad reading the book's wiki entry! But, it's also a crucial tale for seven (and probably seventy) year-olds whose brains are starting to wrinkle and feel more connected to the world around them. Beverly Cleary's Dear Mr. Henshaw was also a pretty foundational read for me as a young pup--the first time reconciling with issues like divorce, loneliness, and writing about thoughts & feelings.

The last book that made me cry was Dan Simmons' The Fall of Hyperion. With sunglasses on, sitting in a chaise by the pool at a Miami Beach hotel that Devin Brugman has posted from. The Hyperion "Cantos" is a four-part sci-fi series (I've only read the first two), so I know I probably can't get you interested--EXCEPT: I'm pretty sure Bradley Cooper has retained the film rights to the tale for several years now! Your boy... the Philly #1 baby, letsgobirds, hitting up The Continental Midtown for sake bombs, actually-probably-grew-up-in-Wayne, PA and not Philly proper actor who I've only seen in the Wet Hot American Summer movies, but I know is actually incredibly famous and in Marvel movies now. (And, apparently incredibly cool for also liking the Hyperion books.)

I'm looking forward to next week's interview with a great author! Thanks, Dan, for always doing this.

the weekend guide's at-reply guy, Bill

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The juxtaposition of a devin brugman poolside selfie and crying bill martin lying prostrate on a chaise lounge is really working for me. i would soundtrack that moment in time with "Cruiser" by RHP. maybe even slow motion it!

I think at this point im good for 1 sci fi series a year. I am ready to take on this - especially if the one and only brad has this in development for the big screen. tbh, i can't imagine it having more of an affect on me than the classic, silver linings, but hey.

love you my good #1 reply guy!!!

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