just_the_things | List 1- Thing 73

73. Read the entire Hornblower series of books

Today I finished the first book, Mr. Midshipman Hornblower, by C. S. Forester. I've been meaning to read this series for several years now, and it feels fantastic to have finally started it. One down... ten to go!

I really enjoyed this book! I've seen the movies/miniseries so many times, and I knew they differ from the books... but it was fascinating to see how different they are! As far as storylines and complications, I prefer some of the choices A&E made over the original (sorry C. S.!) but I still absolutely LOVED getting to know Hornblower all over again (even if he appeared as Ioan Gruffudd in my head). The adventures were rich and I was immediately pulled with such vivid description and characterizations. I cheered every time my Midshipman Kennedy made an appearance, and whenever Hornblower did something fantastic or brilliant... but also every time he got shy or bookish or longed for the sea and duty. *sigh* He's got to be one of my favorite literary characters ever, without a doubt. I look forward to much more time with him!