Live from New York

OK, before I write about this latest book, a little disclaimer. I realize it's been a few weeks since I posted anything on here. There's two reasons for that. First off, for those who don't know, I teach two courses at Boise State University - American Government (101 level) and International Law (400 level). Since the semester started, I've been a little busy getting back into the teaching groove, and spending time making sure my lessons are ready to go. Secondly, some of the books I've been reading are the "back stories" from new authors I've discovered. Specifically, Michael Koryta. I've read about 3 of his last books in the past weeks. I haven't posted comments on all of them - the genre is the same for most (detective novels - some of my favorite, especially when they have the same recurring characters, so you get to know them a little better). Anyway, if anyone wants regular reviews of the detective novels, I'll put some on here. Otherwise, I'm sticking with just reviewing the incredibly original and well-written ones.

That said, this book here was the latest one I read that wasn't a detective novel. Here's the story of how I stumbled upon this one. I actually was looking for the new book about ESPN so I could put it on my library list. (That one will be reviewed sometime after I get it from the library - still waiting for that to happen.) The ESPN book is largely a compilation of a bunch of interviews that the authors did with folks who've been involved with the development of that enterprise. In looking over the ESPN book, I found out one of the authors had done much the same thing with the Saturday Night Live concept - interviewing a bunch of the actors and stars and producers who've been involved with that show since it began, and telling the story of it's development.

I've always been interested in the Saturday Night Live concept. Do I watch it religiously each week? No. Do I think previous years actors were better than what I've seen currently? Yes. But, have I really watched enough of the current actors to really say that the previous ones were better? Not really. I just remember the Chris Farley and Will Farrell years, and think they were hilarious. (Who can forget the Cow Bell skit?! That is one of the greatest moments on television!) So, when I saw this one, which was basically a good behind-the-scenes look through the eyes of the various people involved, I thought it would be interesting.

Overall, the book was good. The format, just snippets from the various interviews was a little hard to follow at times. Also, there were some parts that were just plain boring, that I didn't care really about (honestly, I skipped those parts, so I don't know if I can even say I read the whole thing!). However, there were some really good stories, and tons of cool background facts and information about the folks who've been on the show. Reading the book made me want to start recording the shows (I can't stay up that late, I'll fall asleep!) again, and watching to see what the current actors do, and if I still think the older ones were better. For those interested in the show, this was a good read. I'd recommend getting it from the library though, so you don't feel bad when you skip around and only read the parts that interest you!