I was recently asked what my perfect holiday gift-picks would be for my nearest and dearest. I thought I might share them with you as well. Yes, they are almost entirely books - I'm just that kind of guy.
1) Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett. A wonderful and inspiring story of life in the middle ages, as well as a brilliant treatise on the value of the decorative arts. Follett did extensive research of medieval cathedrals and the construction techniques that went into developing the great structures that have endured to this day. I have always been a fan of medieval architecture and enjoyed his descriptions of building techniques and everyday life in a medieval village. His book became a bestseller, but I resisted reading it for some time due to its length. I am still working my way through, and though I am not quite finished I have reached the point where I have decided it is one of the best books I’ve read in a long time. I whole-heartedly recommend it to anyone who enjoys art or believes that life is more than just work and struggle. This is truly the story of aspiration and the will to create.
2) The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls. Jeanette lived a life, in some ways, similar to my own. Though her family was dysfunctional, and poverty was a daily reality, she had in her heart a dream to be something different than she was. The book tells of her family struggles, and her many quirky memories of her eccentric father. Being the son of an eccentric father myself, as evidenced by several of the scenes in my movie, I can identify with Ms. Walls and her desire to escape the embarrassment of her family. I think creativity is borne of such trials, and that being honest about your family background is somehow very liberating. This book reminds each of us to count our blessings in the midst of trials as there is always a silver lining with every cloud.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
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2 comments:
Merry Christmas Thomas! :) I was wondering about something. Is thomaskinkadetv your channel on youtube? or is it a fan channel?
It is fun to hear of your Christmas wishes ! Out shopping yesterday with all three of our children, we came across your movie, and were so thrilled!!! My two older children did your Drawing Basics a few years ago, but it is my youngest son, Benjamin, who recently found it. He is 3 (soon to be 4) and saw you on the cover, and told me that he MUST see this video...not vegie tales, not another Christmas Video, but YOU. Well, he watched with his easel in place and drew for hours. Practicing and practicing, and wants to watch you every day. You are now referred lovinginly to as his personal friend Mr. Kinkade. Benjamin told me you both have the same boss too, when I asked who, he answered "God!" and went right back to drawing.
His art obsession has always existed, and the way he his going through your video, I fear he will be through with it before next summer, so any suggestions for a young aspiring artist from a great one (and "real friend who understands" to quote Ben) would be so appreciated! (even a belated idea as his birthday is sooo close ;)
Wonderful to see the Light of Christ in YOU!!!
and yes we'll be getting your movie too!
Merry Christmas Mr. Kinkade!! May the Lord continue to bless you abundantly,
a sister in Christ
<>< anika
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