My Father’s Folios
When Dad retired in the late 1980s, he was determined to collect and read more books than his career had allowed.
After sorting through ads for book clubs and societies, he decided Folio Society was a good match for him (and Mom).
And so, six years ago, we inherited about 450 volumes, mostly classics. Since then, we’ve doubled the size of the collection.
I try to read at least two Folios each month, but decided since May is the month of Dad’s birth, we’d go all out.
Book 1: Planet of the Apes by Pierre Boulle
When you’ve not seen a single one of the movies, you’ve got to read the book, right?
Especially since it was written by a Frenchman:
Fascinating science fiction with an unhealthy portion of dystopia (hadn’t I sworn off this stuff, given the current political environment?).
Creepy and sad, but a very compelling story. Glad I read it!
Book 2: Maigret in Society by Georges Simenon
Eh, bien! Another French author.
Chief Inspector Maigret investigates a crime committed by and among a more rarified society than his usual cases. The poor guy is rather intimidated.
It’s a real page-turner. I thought I’d figured it out.
Turns out I didn’t.
Book 3: Winnie the Pooh by A. A. Milne
Our beloved Pooh is 100 years old this year!
Pooh, Piglet, Rabbit, Owl, and Eeyore were important friends in our home growing up. One year, Mom found a character stuffed animal for each of us – Kanga and Roo for me.
Speaking of Roo, there’s quite a tale of kidnapping involving the young marsupial. Mother Kanga beats them at their own game, though, and they all learn to live together.
Book 4: Barchester Towers by Anthony Trollope
This is only the second book of the large collection of Anthony Trollope volumes Dad bequeathed us. At nearly 500 pages, it took the second half of the month, but was well worthwhile.
Trollope reminds me of Dickens – it takes a commitment to learn all the persons, places, and situations, but is well worth it in the long run.
Oh, boy, did Trollope love to poke fun at the religious community, and their penchant for gossip, greed, and quest for power.
I must add that the book’s two minor characters who seemed completely guileless and kind were not the preachers, but farmers.
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