We have all been asked which five music albums we would want with us if stranded on a deserted island. Personally, I would not want any of my favorite records because over time I would grow to dislike them, just as bartenders come to hate their favorite songs after hearing them blast from a jukebox a dozen times a night. So, instead of music, it seems that people should be asking about books.
Reading a book can ignite a slow burning pleasure without fear of being pummeled in four-four time by the jackhammer of monotony. Re-reading a book might uncover nuances that present a more enlightened understanding of the subject matter. Books can amuse and enthuse on the long journey to that clever twist at the end. A twist that, if you’ve already read the book, you know is coming, so this time you look for clues that the author has cleverly woven into the story that should have tipped you off the first time. But most importantly for a person desperate to be rescued back to the civilized world, books can also provide hope. So, if I ever do find myself stranded on a deserted island, these are the volumes of fiction I would hope to have with me.
THE COLD SIX THOUSAND by James Ellroy
CLEAN BREAK by Lionel White
THE INVISIBLE CITY by Pete Hammill
CANDY by Terry Southern & Mason Hoffenberg
MUSIC FOR CHAMELEONS by Truman Capote