What Are You Reading?

One of the books I am reading is Fr. G. Ronald Murphy, SJ's, Gemstone of Paradise: The Holy Grail in Wolfram's Parzival. I have for a number of years been intrigued by the story of the Holy Grail, but have never really gotten into it very deeply. So, with all the emphasis on the Grail these days in relation to a number of controversial issues linked to the interpretation of apocryphal scriptures, Ron's book seems to arrive at a most appropriate time to put these apparent crises into proper perspective. Fr. Murphy is graciously critical and appreciative of existing sources and the literary commentary on the work of other Grail scholars. He seems to address a more profound and radical spiritual understanding of the Grail that can enhance "feelings of faith and compassion and loyalty" among members of the Church today who may have become indifferent to an issue like the Grail.

Louis Bonacci, SJ Coordinator of spiritual    direction for priests    and permanent    deacons Diocese of Scranton

I am reading Bayou Farewell: The Rich Life and Tragic Death of Louisiana's Cajun Coast, by Mike Tidwell. I picked it up at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C., after a panel presentation on rebuilding New Orleans. I recently returned from a trip to New Orleans, so I've found the book to be a particularly helpful resource as I try to learn more about what can be done to make the city a safer place to live. The book chronicles the writer's experience as he travels down Louisiana's bayous with Cajun shrimpers, soaking up the coast's unique food, language and culture. It also tells the story of tremendous environmental and cultural loss as the taming of the Mississippi River causes the bayous to disappear. He reports that the coast is dissolving at an alarming rate. This natural resource is diminishing, taking with it an important shield against hurricanes. The book was written in 2003 and has special resonance now in light of hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

Yvonne Dawson Parishoner St. Aloysius Church Washington, DC

The book I am reading right now is Goosebumps- The Night of the Living Dummy, by R.L. Stine. I really never intended to pick up a Goosebumps book, but all my classmates were reading them, and I wanted to see what was so good about them. I think everyone in the country should pick up a Goosebumps book because they are fun to read. If you are not interested in Goosebumps you may want to pick up another R.L. Stine book. R.L. Stine is a great writer, and I look forward to reading another one of his books. My favorite book in his Goosebumps series is The Night of the Living Dummy. I like it because it is funny and it reminds me of the silly things my sister does. I also like the cover of the book; it can really catch your eye. The book is a little scary and it will keep you interested. I hope you try to read the book too.

Sean Thomas Gray Sixth Grader Saint Ignatius Loyola     Academy Baltimore, MD