This is the first in a series of monthly posts about Frugal Living. It seemed appropriate to start with the topic of books.
General Advice
Check out books at your local library.
Don’t forget your local Friends of the Library store when looking for a book fix, spend less and support your library. Additionally, check out online book clubs, they often have a section where members can swap or giveaway books.
Go to Borders or Barnes and Noble and sit and read for free.’ They actively encourage this so don’t feel bad if you don’t buy something.
Before you buy a book ask yourself this question, Will I read this book at least once for every $1 spend on it? If the answer is no consider my first two suggestions on how to read for free.
If you wish to purchase a book new consider signing up for Borders (weekly coupons) or Barnes and Noble (monthly coupons) E-mail, Borders requires free sign-up in their rewards club, Barnes and Noble coupons are separate from their book club. Also consider place a pre-order online, Amazon often offers extra discounts for pre-orders. Many booksellers offer discounts on a broad selection of books if you buy them online and most offer free shipping with a minimum purchase ranging from $25-$50.
For hardcover books and textbooks check out the following websites for used copies before buying a new copy. (NOTE: Some times New Copies on Barnes and Noble and Amazon.com sold by 3rd party sellers are as cheaper than discounted new copies from internet book retailers, compare prices for the best deal.)
When book lists are compiled we are often treated to a litany of popular and/or classic literature. There is nothing wrong with these lists but they often give the impression that people do not read science-fiction, fantasy and its many genres, or adventure books. There seems to be an unspoken taboo against admitting that you read these books in polite society as if the use of the imagination is something shameful. I can tell you that I love Hamlet (which I do), but if I admit an equal love for the Dresden Files (I do) people start looking at me funny.
I was approached several times within a two weeks period for a list of books with male main characters. Specifically these men ranged in age from 22-50+ were interested in Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Adventure novels. Intrigued I attempted to find a book list online and, while I did find books for boys and teens; the adult book lists for men did not fit the bill at all. This list is an attempt to fill that gap.
Disclaimers.
This book list was compiled for adults. While the main characters in all of these books are men they may also be enjoyed by women. This list assumes the reader is familiar with Harry Potter, The Hobbit, Lord of the Rings, and James Bond.
The only screening I provided for this list was that the driving character in the book was clearly the male lead. I strongly suggest looking at the links I provided below before buying or checking out any of these books. These books cover a wide range of topics and some people may be offended by the content of some books.
(This series is a mystery/action/urban fantasy series.? The link above is the series homepage.? This is a long series planed to go over 20 books including a 3 book apocalyptic finale.)
