Printed Matter '11

1   8  

If you ever wanted to read a tale about a complete miscarriage of justice. Look no further. A complete mockery of our American legal system.

Mr. Lays's rating:

5   8  

Just like sad-but-true films, I generally as a rule do not go out of my way to read depressing novels. This was a bit of an exception I suppose. My mom saw the author speak in person and recommended that I give this inspirational book a read. While it is difficult for me to say that I "enjoyed" this book in the typical manner, it did give me plenty of reasons to appreciate everything (if I like it or not) that the Universe (or whatever other deity you may respect) sends my way. Nevertheless, a tough read when you realize horrible things, such as things presented in this novel, happen on a daily occurrence.

Mr. Lays's rating:

2   10  

Author Michael Eric Dyson does a simply amazing analyzation of the man, the myth and the legend that is Tupac Shakur. It breaks down almost every single one of Tupac's philosophies and why they should be more integrated in to our current way of thinking. There is plenty of duality in this book as well. At times many of Tupac's beliefs come off as childish naivety or chauvinistic. Then switches to a powerful statement if looked at from a different angle. Interesting read all around. Highly recommended!

Mr. Lays's rating:

1   8  

This lengthly read has some newly found information that organized crime aficionados, such as myself, will find interesting.
What new information could there possibly be?
Well for starters The St. Valentine's Day Massacre just may not have anything to do with Snorky (Capone's nickname) at all. Newly leaked FBI documents tell quite a different story. I cannot spoil it here, but it is fascinating.

Mr. Lays's rating:

8   8.4  

I must have read this graphic novel three-five times the first time week I received it! This is seriously adult material. Highly doubtful that this will ever make if to the silver screen. The Boys has such harsh subject matter that it would take a mountain of testosterone to green-light this. (Or if it did make it to the screen the story would be neutered to it's bare minimum minus all of the character development. Rendering it essentially worthless.)

Even if you may not be a fan of graphic novels, pick this up right now!

Mr. Lays's rating:

515   8.9  

--REREAD--

As mentioned before in my previous Printed Matter List, I read Dave Gibbons and Alan Moore's timeless material about twice a year. The story is nothing short of revolutionary. No, I am not a fanboy, but there is no denying the impact that this graphic novel has had on the Comic industry.

And (disagree if you will) for once, the film translation did this major justice.

Mr. Lays's rating:

1   9  

The RZA does it again! I thought that he would never top The Wu Tang Manual, but I do not mind being proven wrong when it comes to amazing reading material. The man blends everything with everything? I know that isn't an accurate description, but the RZA isn't your average fellow isn't he? Pick up this follow up by all means.

Mr. Lays's rating:

2   8.5  

--REREAD--

While I was organizing my bookshelf this book fell to the ground and opened up to one of my favorite scenes. I began to reread the whole book over again and loved every minute of it. I cannot wait for the film!

Mr. Lays's rating:

135   8.1  

Many have raved about the chill factor of this book. Damn, where they ever right! I am not too thrilled about the upcoming film possibly losing the distinctive narrative that made this an interesting read in the first place.

*clears throat*

Fuck you Hollywood!

Mr. Lays's rating:

6   7.3  

I am a Cracked.com junkie. I will always be entertained by their ability to humor while educate. This "new" collection of articles, touches every subject possible. One of my favorite being "Presidents that wouldn't have a Chance in Hell to win today." My only real gripe is that about half of the articles located in this book can also be read on the website. So much for "exclusive" material.

Mr. Lays's rating:

29   7.3  

I finally got around to purchasing this "groundbreaking" graphic novel. I say groundbreaking with plenty of sarcasm because I personally don't think that Wanted deserved all the hype. The characters are anti-heroes definitely, but it's to the point where do you want to cheer for a rapist and killer of the innocent? If this is the only way to "free" yourself, then consider me a "slave" with my big screen TV and DVD's. Granted, I did enjoy the alternate universe when the bad guys won and wiped the superheroes off the planet and the action sequences are amazingly drawn. But that alone is hardly enough for me to recommend fully.

Mr. Lays's rating:

3   10  

Everything that you every wanted to learn about the Wu is located right here! The RZA goes through a wide range of topics such as organized crime, philosophy, spirituality, sampling and everything that made the Wu-Tang Clan one of the most influential groups ever in hip-hop. Any self respecting fan of the Wu, do yourself a favor, purchase this book and gain some knowledge. You will not be disappointed. Trust me!

Mr. Lays's rating:

18   8.6  

Reading year kicks off with a specular read! Halo:The Fall of Reach obviously tells the fall of the planet Reach. Also this contains the origin story of Master Chief. A must read if you are one of those Halo fanatics who sleep in your Spartan Armor pajamas.

Mr. Lays's rating: