I primarily read the 19th and early 20th century authors - Hemminway, Steinbeck, Dickens, Tolstoy, Dostoesky, Twain, George Elliot, Poe, Arthur Conan Doyle, John O'Hara, James Michener. I developed a particular interest in Russian history from Tolstoy and Dostoevsky. Dickens is probably my favorite and most read. Can't develop much interest at all in current spy/consiracy novels.

I'm a civil engineer retired after 35 years of state government employment. Not what I would call an avid reader, but read about 10 books a year. I also enjoy fishing, camping, hiking and woodworking.