The End … Finally

I came home to a pleasant surprise Monday evening (January 7, 2012), delivered by my friendly postal employee.  I received my signed first edition hardcover copy of A Memory of Light one day early, the day before the official release:

First Edition Hardcover Received 1/7/2013
First Edition Hardcover Received 1/7/2013
First Edition Hardcover signed by Brandon received 1/7/2013
First Edition Hardcover signed by Brandon received 1/7/2013

As you can see in the photo above, Brandon aptly personalized my copy with the phrase ‘The End.’  I started reading this series twenty-three years ago and I nearly gave up hope, when Robert Jordan passed away, of ever reading the long prophesied Last Battle.  Soon, all my questions will be answered (or so I hope).

I stayed up two hours past my normal bed time to read the prologue and the first six chapters.  I’ve read another six chapters since then and will read a couple more before falling asleep tonight.  I predict that by Sunday, I’ll be posting a review here of my thoughts on the longest, sprawliest epic fantasy series I’ve ever read and whether A Memory of Light was worth the wait (and the hype).

Kansas City Public Library 2013 Adult Winter Reading Program ~ While the City Sleeps

After reviewing the suggested reading list for the adult winter reading program, “While the City Sleeps,” I only found three items of interest to me personally.  This does not mean you won’t find something that appeals to your tastes.  I added the following three titles to my ‘to-read’ queue:

I will probably skip the signature events this time around, but will try to make the book discussion in mid-February for Night Circus. I thought about attending the showing of the movie Apollo 13, but decided against it because it’s not at the Plaza Branch (which has a wonderful auditorium).  Besides, I own the DVD.  I’d just miss out on the book discussion for Lost Moon.

This will make my fourth (or possibly fifth) consecutive winter reading program with the Kansas City Public Library.  I can’t wait to see what kind of mug I will add to my growing collection once I turn in my reading log.