> Then there's _Ilium_ by Dan Simmons, the first book in his new far-future sci-fi duology. Simmons is, IMO, an amazingly inventive and proficient writer. His content is often R-rated, but the sheer scope of the world he envisions is so amazing to behold that I don't really mind that much.
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> In non-fiction, a perennial recommendation of mine is _The Modern Mind_ by Peter Watson. This is one of the most readable history books I've ever encountered. It covers the entire twentieth century, focusing on scientific advancements and spending a gratifying amount of time on the amazing breakthroughs in physics at the turn of the century.

I just noticed that, apparently, I really, really love the word "amazing".

Iss "the amazing largeness of the mayor's large house amazes you" achar