I’ll start with a book recommendation or two.
First a new one, this is more of a kids book, though I think anyone would enjoy it…
The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick is a beautifully constructed art object in itself. Part picture book, part novel, words and images intermingle. I think my sister met the author and is always on the lookout for books for her classroom full of kids. She forced me to buy it one day. Ostensibly a book for children (intimidating at first glance because it is so thick but satisfying to the little whipper snappers because it really is a fast read). It is the story of the first magician film maker (Georges Méliès), a boy who fixes things, invention, love and lost history. Perfect gift.
And a flashback to a classic from a few years ago.
Fortress of Solitude by Jonathan Lethem is a bittersweet snapshot of growing up in NYC in the 70’s. Any of Jon’s books are delectable (he does absurd ones too). Damaged and broken characters (I just described us all) try hard to grow up amidst the “brickhouses” and gangland hijinks of the inner city. I note “brickhouse” a classic song from the times because the main character has an ear and a love for music (this book is semi-autobiographical since Jon has also been a music critic). The main characters (one white one black) become child superheroes after a drunk falls from the sky and gives them his ring (did I mention that part yet?) If you grew up in the 70’s or love music, or want to know what it was like and just enjoy a great, slightly magically realistic read, go get this book.
———-Top Five———
1. Geoffrey Canada clip now posted on GEL. Just watch this. I wrote about him in a previous post
5. This week in AR (on the iphone).
—————-The Rest———————
What one studio did this holiday (or I guess I just like whiteboard stunts)…
Apple submits multitouch on 3d surfaces patent, surprised?
Ever try to remember that one video game you wanted so badly when you were younger?
Ever wonder how they find cool locations for films?
Here is a shortcut to one of their projects as a sample…
Ahh, winter is a time for good old fashioned fun…
11 pound laptop with dual display, yes a new trend is underway that involves putting displays just about anywhere you can (along with some form of pen input) and putting more of them on things than ever before. Imagine the premium we’ll pay someday for objects (and environments) that don’t constantly blast our eyes with pixelove.
Wired’s top ten tech for 2008…
Cute music video based on karaoke…
Is there a ReStore near you? Sounds pretty cool, cheap, often recycled or donated stuff, proceeds go to help build homes.
Concerts in 2008 had more eye candy than ever…
Handmade fonts, just like grandpa used to make.
Pretty good best of music for 2008 list.
Finally find out what Fido is really doing!