I've never read any of Nick Hornby's fiction, and though I've seen a few of his movies, his written persona was a stranger to me. Imagine my surprise, then, when I turned to the first page of his book and found...a friend! Well, no, we're not actual friends, but Hornby has a voice that is so conversational and comfortable, and tells me about the books he's read with just the enthusiasm I prefer from my friends when we talk about books. I like him *so* much that I've chosen to overlook his association with Dave Eggers. That's how much I like him. It's his fault that I've added twenty or so books to my TBR list in the past week. And not that I've ever exactly flagged in enthusiasm for reading, but reading Hornby has stoked the fire somewhat, because he made me feel like I'm part of a conversation about them. He also reads widely, both fiction and non-fiction, so there will be something for everyone. I'm putting his other collections on my list, but I'm almost afraid to read his fiction now that I like him so much! By chance, I watched (enjoyed) "An Education" the other night, which I've only just now learned Hornby adapted for the screen from a memoir by Lynn Baker. Definitely recommended, especially if you like study montages!