Meh. It's not the worst thing I've read this year.

Maybe it's because I'm older or maybe it's because I work in a government position in where I have witnessed bureaucracy in action or I have seen the "interesting" perspective of art communities. Whatever the reason, this story resonated more now than when I read it in my youth. The characters were more amazing than I remember and the feeling of joy I had at the end was wonderful.

I wasn't expecting this to be one of my favorite reads of the year but a half hour into the narration I knew that this was a keeper. The last part killed me though. I threw my hands up in the air in frustration but it was still a fantastic story.

I started to listen to this book on my way to work. About half-way through the first part, I paused and thought about my own life and the direction it had taken versus the direction I want to take. I didn't finish the audio. I found a copy and flipped through the pages, browsing the content. The main thing is that you have to take control and take chances. I can't do that if I'm reading/listening to a book as an excuse. I'm off to read screenwriting titles and books that inspire me to actually write instead of merely thinking of the task.

I came for the humorous title. I leave with a picture of a handy flowchart to use in everyday situations. Do whatever makes you happy. Don't let others bring you down. Do go on journeys that make you feel alive. Don't attend functions that make you want to punch dolphins. Do whatever the f*ck you want.

I know that this is a classic and that it served as inspiration for the genre of Gothic Literature but OH MY GOD was it a slog to get through. Granted, I went to 50% before giving up and thumbing through till the end. Even then, I understood the plot better with a quick Wikipedia search. I may not like the material but I respect its place in literary history.