Day 13: Overrated authors.
Gianna:
Most overrated author as a topic is sure to make people angry, so let's do it!
My first instinct was to say Norman Mailer, but the problem with that is I have read two of his books and attempted another three. Basically he is two for five in my book; which means the Cubs would pick him up and over-pay him. But at the end of the day I am not sure he ranks as overrated. I will say, however, that I disliked the man and avoided reading about him or interviews with him….but did really love The Executioner’s Song.
Liz and I will probably pick a few of the same authors here and I doubt the name Franzen won’t show up (no matter what Time Magazine says). And you know what? Since I am drunk right now I will say Hemingway just to get some hate mail. I am on a roll…I do not get the fascination with Salinger. And if we are going to pick on some bestselling contemporary authors….Jodi Picoult. I have tried three times and I just don’t get it. I mean I get it but I don’t get why people love her so.
Now having said all that…one author’s popularity and critical acclaim is just beyond me. Chuck Palahniuk. If he'd stopped four books back, he wouldn't be on this list. He's catering to adolescent boys now. Yuck.
Send all hate mail to Liz.
Liz:
First, yes, I absolutely agree that J.D. Salinger is terribly overrated. Also, Hemingway. My favorite Hemingway is Muriel. I'll say it: David Foster Wallace. I think he's a fascinating personality, but I don't want to read his books.
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Send the hate mail. We're not afraid.