From then on his music developed an increasingly urban rhythmic thrust, while his singing and harmonica playing remained both distinctive and downhome

32.

Deep Blues by Robert Palmer – Vacation book! As I was preparing to go, I really wanted to read a history of Chicago blues. I looked far and wide at used bookstores for a good example. Deep Blues is more of history of the Blues done by biographing some of its most notable names, Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, Robert Johnson, and Son House. It was good, but their wasn’t as much about Chicago as I would have liked.

He might inspire awe at his open desire to demolish an opponent, his sullen reluctance to cease beating on a man once the fight was stopped...

33.

The Fight by Norman Mailer – Vacation book! Continuing with my Ali kick, I finally got around to reading this book that Stephen P. recommended to me so many years ago. Mailer’s descriptions are electric, but the book is often weighed down by his arrogance

One might think that with its wealth of treasures, the Metropolitan would be a prime target for New York's superpowerful crooks.

34.

The Marvel Comics Guide to New York City by Peter Sanderson- I bought this a while back as a possible gift for a friend that loves comics as much as he loves New York, but never got around to giving it to him. For some reason, I thought it would be a good book to read before a trip to Chicago. A strange travel book, it doesn’t really work, but is mildly entertaining.

But when you stand up there, all cheekiness, it doesn't give us much encouragement, you know.

35.

Cocksure by Mordecai Richler - Bookclub Pick! I just don't think I get satire from other times. I found this book boring and mildly offensive. Its only redeeming quality was it was short.