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Watching: Outlander
It's no secret that I'm a big fan of the new Outlander series on Starz. Fans of the eight books and now the cable series know this is far more than just a romance, adventure or time-travel genre novel brought to life. It's more than prurient interest in what's under Jamie's kilt. What's kept loyal readers riveted is the wonderfully strong and salty character Claire, a feminist hero even men can admire and care about. The series lovingly features the Scottish highlands as much as the characters, and I also found a beautiful blog by the top costume designer, Terry Dresbach, with sketches and descriptions of how the period costumes were created.

If you can't watch it on cable, dinna fash, sassenachs. The books are a great romp in adult territory and not for the squeamish. As author Diane Gabaldon said when criticized for her brutal depictions of life in 18th century Scotland, "I don't write 'nice' books".

This is not a book I would have found or even read on my own. Author George Putnam recently contacted me through my business website while trying to locate his old friend, my brother Richard. The three of us had hung out when I was ages 17-21, before George left for Los Angeles to become a screenwriter. After I broke the sad news of Richard's death 11 years ago we rekindled our friendship, and I learned that he's written for LAPD and Deadwood ("Shakespeare in the mud!") and has also had this novel optioned by the Coen brothers. While I'm only 10 pages in I intend to spend more time reading it this weekend, as descriptions of two rival bartenders in L.A. have already made me laugh aloud. To wit:

[Bartender the first]
Chain smoking had stained his teeth, and tar-strength coffee throughout the day made them even darker. The only exercise he got came from chronic complaining. His vile breath could move objects.

[Bartender the second]
On first impression, you might listen to him attentively because he was blessed with a deep voice that sounded like a lyrical tuba, and he spoke slowly, as if words came only after thoughtful deliberation. Within seconds, however, you realized he was a colossal bore for whom creative thought required a translator.

I always have an Audible book I'm listening to while commuting, gardening, walking the dogs or housecleaning. This one is destined for the five star category as it follows the intersecting destinies of two young people who land in a seaside town while caught up in the machinations of World War II. Beautifully and sensitively written.

Also up this weekend: Most of Saturday spent taking a live online Continuing Education course, and some Broncos football on Sunday.