Latest news with #Lamb
Fox Sports
5 days ago
- Sport
- Fox Sports
2025 NFL odds: How will George Pickens, CeeDee Lamb mesh in Dallas?
The wide receiver duo of George Pickens and CeeDee Lamb could be one ready to wreck havoc on the league. Pickens has landed with the Dallas Cowboys after three seasons in Pittsburgh, where he compiled 174 receptions for 2,841 yards and 12 touchdowns. How will Pickens perform alongside Cowboys' star No. 1 wideout? Let's check out Pickens' and Lamb's odds for the 2025 season at DraftKings Sportsbook as of May 28. George Pickens regular-season receiving yards Over 900.5 yards: -110 (bet $10 to win $19.09 total) Under 900.5 yards: -110 (bet $10 to win $19.09 total) George Pickens regular-season receiving touchdowns Over 4.5 touchdowns: -135 (bet $10 to win $17.41 total) Under 4.5 touchdowns: +110 (bet $10 to win $21 total) George Pickens to have 1000+ receiving yards in the regular season: +250 (bet $10 to win $35 total) George Pickens to score 8+ receiving touchdowns in the regular season: +150 (bet $10 to win $25 total) CeeDee Lamb regular-season receiving yards Over 1200.5 yards: -110 (bet $10 to win $19.09 total) Under 1200.5 yards: -110 (bet $10 to win $19.09 total) CeeDee Lamb regular-season receiving touchdowns Over 7.5 touchdowns: +110 (bet $10 to win $21 total) Under 7.5 touchdowns: -135 (bet $10 to win $17.41 total) CeeDee Lamb to break the NFL regular-season receiving touchdowns record (24+ rec TDs): +3000 (bet $10 to win $310 total) CeeDee Lamb to break the NFL regular-season receiving yards record (1965+ rec yards): +3000 (bet $10 to win $310 total) Although he missed three games due to a hamstring injury, Pickens still managed to lead the Steelers with 900 receiving yards through his 14 games in 2024. The 2023 season marked his most successful overall, notching career-highs in receptions (63), receiving yards (1,140) and touchdowns (5). "Looking at the guy's tape, you see what he does, the kind of receiver he is, he's going to win on one on ones," Cowboys QB Dak Prescott said of Pickens at OTAs. "He can win two vs. one if he has to. Very, very talented guy. When you can add him alongside a CeeDee and the rest of the weapons we have, I'm super excited." Lamb feels the same about his new No. 2. "We complement each other very well," Lamb recently said of Pickens. "He's a tall figure. His ability to go up and get the ball at the highest point is amazing. … He's up there with the [best] guys in the league as far as 50/50 balls, deep threat, anything as far as running routes — it's pretty good. It's good to see." Lamb has served as the clear-cut No. 1 WR for the Cowboys since 2021. He's made the Pro Bowl four consecutive seasons, and throughout his five seasons in Dallas, Lamb has 496 receptions for 6,339 yards and 38 touchdowns. Lamb led the league in catches in 2023 (135), and had a career-high 1,749 receiving yards. The last time Lamb truly split targets with another receiver was in 2021, alongside Amari Cooper. That season, Lamb tallied 68 receptions for 865 yards and eight touchdowns. The last time the Cowboys had two receivers with 1,000 yards was in 2019, with Cooper and Michael Gallup. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Want great stories delivered right to your inbox? Create or log in to your FOX Sports account, and follow leagues, teams and players to receive a personalized newsletter daily! recommended Get more from National Football League Follow your favorites to get information about games, news and more
Man of Many
23-05-2025
- Man of Many
18 Best Circular Quay Restaurants
When you want to dine on Sydney Harbour and eat some of the city's best food, pay a visit to these venues on our list of the best Circular Quay restaurants. Whether you're twisting and turning through the nearby suburb of The Rocks, trying to find a cool bar, or just hanging out on the steps of the Harbour Bridge, the journey through some of the finest restaurants in the city starts here. Without further ado, let's check out our favourite spots to eat in Circular Quay, as chosen by our team of foodies. Best Circular Quay Restaurants at a Glance Highlights from our list include the following options: Best Circular Quay restaurant overall : Quay Restaurant : Quay Restaurant For value for money : IPPUDO : IPPUDO For groups : Mr Wong : Mr Wong For date night : BISTECCA : BISTECCA For fine dining: Oborozuki Now we've rounded up our favourites, let's check out the complete list. Quay Restaurant | Image: Supplied / Quay Restaurant 1. Quay Restaurant Located in the heart of The Rocks and with a spectacular view of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, Quay Restaurant's executive chef Peter Gilmore reinvigorated cooking and dining experiences in Australia when he opened this very restaurant. The ocean-decorated floor couples with Gilmore's adoration for nature to help find inspiration for his dishes, which can be sampled as part of a six-course set menu (approx. $365 per person) to challenge any in the harbour city. There's a focus on seasonality with fish, pork, and Wagyu typically dominating the rotating menu. Expect David Blackmore Wagyu, Mud crab dumplings, Smoked confit of pig jowl, and a Raw pearl oyster to start. Located in: Overseas Passenger Terminal Address: Upper Level Overseas Passenger Terminal, The Rocks NSW 2000 Hours: Wed-Sun 5:30-8:30pm Phone: (02) 9251 5600 Bennelong | Image: Supplied 2. Bennelong Bennelong put Sydney's dining scene on the world stage when it hit its stride in the 1980s with its famous roast trolley. Today, the dining fair has transformed thanks to Gilmore's Fink restaurant group, but the location remains just as special in the shell of the Opera House. You're spoiled for choice here between having a casual drink/quick bite before a show or getting immersed in a culinary experience. The restaurant offers a choice of an À La Carte or three-course set menu ($210) with both leaning heavily towards seafood and Aussie favourites such as Lamb and Duck. Favourite menu items of ours include the XO pipis with smoked bacon, crispy eggplant, shaved squid, striped peanuts, and aioli alongside the Lamb short loin with green olives, squash, nasturtium agretti, capers, and an outstanding herb purée. Located in: Sydney Opera House Address: Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000 Hours: Mon-Thurs 5:30–8:45 pm, Fri-Sun 12–2 pm, 5:30–8:45 pm Phone: (02) 9240 8000 Aria | Image: Supplied 3. ARIA With two hats and the background of the harbour, ARIA owners Matt Moran and Bruce Solomon have created one of those Circular Quay restaurants you have to see to believe. Prioritising Australian produce revitalises the Aussie spirit of every guest, while executive chef Tom Gorringe crafts a seasonal menu that is designed for the enjoyment of the whole table. Flavours are delicate, precise and perfectly balanced, presenting an authentic fine-dining experience, with favourite menu items of ours including the K'gari spanner crab, Aquuna Murray cod, and David Blackmore 9+ sirloin. Address: 1 Macquarie St, Sydney NSW 2000 Hours: Mon-Wed 5–10:30 pm, Thur-Sat 12-11:30pm, Sun 12-10pm Phone: (02) 9240 2255 Oborozuki | Image: Supplied 4. Oborozuki One of the best new restaurants in Sydney, Oborozuki opened its 120-seat restaurant in late 2022 and is home to one of our favourite Japanese fine-dining fusion kaiseki and teppanyaki menus in the city. The restaurant regularly plays host to exclusive events hosted by world-renowned chefs who specialise in Japanese cuisine, think celebrity sushi masters such as Takayoshi Watanabe and Hirotoshi Ogawa. In terms of cuisine, the two options are either Teppanyaki (minus the food throwing) or our personal favourite, the Kaiseki (similar to a degustation). Menus change regularly, but some of our favourite dishes on the Kaiseki menu include the Karasumi; Tasmanian Lobster, Tomato Sauce, Zucchini, Rosemary, Thyme, Dill, and Balsamic Sauce; King Crab with Somen Noodles; A5 Ozaki Wagyu Ribeye Miso-Wasabi Sauce, Rocket Leaf, Garlic, Rose Salt and Black Pepper. Being a fine-dining affair, the degustation prices are high at $450 AUD per person. Address: Level 3/71 Macquarie St, Sydney NSW 2000 Hours: Tues-Thurs 5:30-10 pm, Fri-Sat 12-10 pm Phone: 0426 111 999 BISTECCA | Image: Supplied 5. BISTECCA One of our favourite steak restaurants in Sydney is also cut as one of the best near Circular Quay. Of course, it's hard enough to go past the 50-seat location that feels like it's underneath Sydney CBD, but the Bistecca alla Fiorentina on offer here is the best in the city. Measured and served in grams, the meat is presented before you to showcase the outstanding marbling of the Riverine sourced meat before it's cooked fireside over ironbark and charcoal to a perfect medium rare. A range of sides are available to complement the meal, favourites of ours include the cavolo nero with confit garlic cream, followed by the Roast potatoes tonnato. Address: 3 Dalley St, Sydney NSW 2000 Hours: Mon-Sun 12 pm–12 am Phone: (02) 8067 0450 Mr. Wong | Image: Supplied 6. Mr. Wong One of the most famous restaurants near Circular Quay, you'll struggle to find a foodie in Sydney who hasn't dined at Mr. Wong and/ or tried their classic fried ice cream. A part of the Merivale company, Mr. Wong offers modern Cantonese-style food that has us coming back time and time again. We also love their BBQ Duck, while the stir-fried garlic prawns are also a big hit. You'd be remiss for not ordering a few dumplings, and the Scallop and prawn shumai, King crab and prawn, and Wild mushroom dumplings are worth their weight in gold. Those looking to turn things up a notch for a special occasion should opt for the Live Seafood menu with both mud crab and rock lobster on offer at market price. Located in: Establishment Hotel Address: 3 Bridge Ln, Sydney NSW 2000 Hours: Mon-Sun 12–3 pm, 5:30–10:30 pm Phone: (02) 9114 7317 Cafe Sydney | Image: Supplied 7. Cafe Sydney Cafe Sydney has been a pillar of excellence for more than 20 years, and understandably so. Often hailed as one of the best restaurants in Circular Quay, let alone the world, its impressive menu is filled with delicate meats and seafood, truly encapsulating the essence of Sydney, but we can't discount their breathtaking views of the harbour. Located on the rooftop of Customs House, Cafe Sydney is iconic and quintessentially Australian. Located in: Customs House Address: Level 5 Customs House, 31 Alfred St, Sydney NSW 2000 Hours: Mon-Sat 12–10:30 pm, Sun 12-5pm Phone: (02) 9251 8683 Bar Patrón | Image: Supplied 8. Bar Patrón With salsa, tacos and tequila, Bar Patrón has it all and more! It became one of our favourite Circular Quay establishments again when it reopened its doors in 2022 after a three-year hiatus, and we're pleased to say the restaurant is back serving the same authentic Mexican cuisine for Sydneysiders. A part of the famous Sydney restaurant collective, Rockpool Dining Group and Patrón brand, this restaurant and bar strives for excellence with every dish. Their dining experience has that Mexican flair where each fresh ingredient pays tribute to traditional and contemporary recipes, starting with a seafood-driven entree menu with Scallop Ceviche, Tuna Ensalada and Octopus Huarache. House-pressed tortillas become hand-held tacos that are plump with light, flavour-packed fillings, including Soft Shell Crab, Chicken with Black Mole and Carnitas Eggplant, all paired with house-made sauces and salsas. Main dishes include Tajima Wagyu Rib Eye with Epazote Chimichurri and Aged Mango Mole; Lamb Shoulder Birria; and Lobster al Patrón, served with a creamy tequila sauce. Address: 2 Phillip St, Sydney NSW 2000 Hours: Sun-Mon 12-9pm, Tues-Thur 12-10pm, Fri-Sat 12-11pm, Sun 12-9pm Phone: (02) 9259 5624 Mode Kitchen & Bar | Image: Supplied 9. Mode Kitchen & Bar Mode Kitchen & Bar defines modern Australian dining, offering classics with a modern twist. Making a name for itself as one of Circular Key's best restaurants by perfectly balancing business and casual diners with fine dining and a bistro. Located in the atrium of the Four Seasons hotel, this venue has delicious, mind-blowing flavours and the friendliest staff. You'll get transported back in time with their warm lighting, leather seats and mahogany tables. If you want something rich, you can go for their signature 1kg T-Bone, or if you want something light, their Duck Breast that's dry-aged and roasted, with radicchio, pomegranate and soubise is a sure-fire winner. Everything you taste at Mode Kitchen and Bar is locally produced, their hand-crafted stoneware plates are made in Melbourne, and their signature cocktails plus beautiful desserts will make you want to never leave. Located in: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney Address: Ground Floor, 199 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000 Hours: Mon-Sat 12–4 pm, 5:30–10 pm, Sun 12-10pm Phone: (02) 9250 3160 Saké Restaurant | Image: Supplied 10. Saké Restaurant & Bar Saké restaurant is probably the best place to find contemporary Japanese cuisine in The Rocks. Each dish is made from fresh ingredients with a unique twist, and guests can enjoy an innovative culinary experience as the team combines modern Japanese flavours with classic ones in a quest to delight their tastebuds. Sake's classic menu has everything you need, from their Himachi Kingfish with coriander-infused ponzu or their raspberry jelly goma. Fall in love with each bite and drink all the saké you want with their long beverage list. Address: 12 Argyle St, The Rocks NSW 2000 Hours: Sun-Thur 12-9pm, Fri-Sat 12-10pm Phone: (02) 9259 5656 Pony Dining The Rocks | Image: Supplied 11. Pony Dining The Rocks Pony Dining at The Rocks gives you locally sourced produce and beautiful meat and seafood dishes that you can down with Australian wine or their signature cocktails. Executive chef Neil Nolan's passion for cooking is translated into his dishes, where every meal is cooked to perfection. The brick walls and earthy tones set the scene as you enjoy small plates of delicious food. They even offer brunch, so that you can enjoy a fine-dining experience at any time. Located in: The Rocks Centre Address: Cnr Argyle Street, Kendall Ln, The Rocks NSW 2000 Hours: Mon-Thur 5:30-9:30 pm, Fri-Sat 12–3 pm, 5:30–10 pm, Sun 12–3 pm, 5:30–9:30 pm Phone: (02) 9252 7797 Altitude Restaurant | Image: Supplied 12. Altitude Located in the Shangri-La Hotel, this Circular Quay restaurant has arguably the best view of the city. 'Dine in the sky' is their motto, and with a glass jewel private box, you really will – it 'floats' 36 levels above the water, giving you views you've never seen before. Serving contemporary Australian cuisine, Altitude offers every meal from breakfast to dinner to high tea, paired with an excellent wine list. You can try their signature dishes, like the butter-poached WA marron with herbs, with a sliced fennel salad or their pana cotta. If you are after one of the best restaurants in Circular Quay and aren't opposed to a view, this recently two-hatted restaurant is for you. Located in: Shangri-La Sydney Address: 176 Cumberland St, The Rocks NSW 2000 Hours: 12–2 pm, 5:30–10 pm Phone: (02) 9250 6000 Kid Kyoto | Image: Supplied 13. Kid Kyoto Kid Kyoto is non-traditional in the best way, they serve up dishes that have native Australian ingredients paired with Japanese flavours that will have your tastebuds soaring. Downing this with one of their Japanese whiskeys or signature cocktails will make your night even better. This modern take on Japanese flavours is what brings Rhys Watson-Lamb's cooking to the next level. Address: 17-19 Bridge Street, Bridge Ln, Sydney NSW 2000 Hours: Tues-Sat 12-10pm Phone: (02) 9241 1991 Opera Bar | Image: Supplied 14. Opera Bar A list of the best Circular Quay restaurants would not be complete without Opera Bar. One of the most memorable restaurants, this is the perfect go-to before or after a show, or even just to enjoy the harbourside views. Opera Bar's signature Sangria jugs and their extensive wine and beer lists will make for the perfect night out. The venue offers a range of meals from cheese plates, sit-down dishes and desserts. Opera Bar is a must for any tourists or non-Sydneysiders, the instagrammable views will make your followers green with envy, while you enjoy the run and sea salt breezes. If you're looking for a restaurant during the annual Vivid festival, we recommend getting in early. Located in: Sydney Opera House Address: Sydney Opera House, Lower Concourse Level, Sydney NSW 2000 Hours: Sun-Thurs 11am-12am, Fri-Sat 11am-12:30am Phone: (02) 8587 5900 6HEAD | Image: Supplied 15. 6HEAD Sydney This premium waterfront steak restaurant is located in one of Australia's most picturesque locations, directly on Sydney Harbour. 6HEAD is one of those venues you simply can't go past. With a focus on local produce and meat sourced from respected local purveyors, the Circular Quay restaurant has emerged as a favourite in Harbour City. Throw in the hand-selected wine list and an assortment of spectacular desserts, and you've got a recipe for a good night out. We also hosted our 10-year party just next door, so you can bet that we like the scenery from this area. Located in: Campbell's Stores Address: Bay 10 & 11, Campbell's Stores, 7-27 Circular Quay W, The Rocks NSW 2000 Hours: Mon 5-9:30pm, Tues-Thurs 12-9:30pm, Fri-Sat 12-10:30pm, Sun 12-9pm Phone: (02) 8629 8866 Whalebridge | Image: Supplied / Whalebridge 16. Whalebridge If the idea of fresh seafood and views of Sydney's best landmarks sounds like a fair way to spend an afternoon, then head over to Whalebridge. This French bistro and bar is positioned in a prime location, right on Sydney Harbour, and is serving up the classics. Whether you're stopping by for an oyster, bread, and charcuterie, or you want to hang around for a larger plate, with pasta, seafood, and an outstanding Steak Frites made from Angus sirloin and served with Cafe de Paris and French fries. Address: 8 & 10 Circular Quay W, Sydney NSW 2000 Hours: Mon-Sun 11am-11pm Phone: (02) 9000 7709 The Meat & Wine Co Circular Quay | Image: Supplied 17. The Meat & Wine Co The Meat & Wine Co Circular Quay is found in the InterContinental Hotel and it's one spot you don't want to miss. Wood, leather and a misty ambience don't begin to describe the experience you'll have here. It's self-proclaimed 'Afro-centric' dining, paired with being described as having 'Sydney's favourite steak', this Circular Quay restaurant gives you everything a meat-lover needs. Sophisticated presentation, flavour and an innovative wine list are what you can expect. The atmosphere is dark and mysterious, with affordable, high-quality food. What more could you want? Their extensive menu caters for a range of eaters, and they provide every cut of Australian-farmed steak. Address: 2 O'Connell St, Sydney NSW 2000 Hours: Mon-Sat 12-10pm, Sun 12-9:30pm Phone: (02) 9264 9888 IPPUDO | Image: Supplied 18. IPPUDO Circular Quay IPPUDO Circular Quay has become a staple of the Sydney food scene, and if you're looking for the best Ramen near Circular Quay, look no further. We'd go as far as to say this has become the global standard of Tonkotsu Ramen, and while we wouldn't go as far to say it's the best in the city, the combination of creamy tonkotsu broth, signature secret dashi, thin straight noodles, pork loin chashu, bean sprouts, flavoured black fungus, and spring onions just hits the spot. Of course, a few Pulled Pork Buns are a great alternative to ramen. Address: Shop 3, Level 1/71/79 Macquarie St, Sydney NSW 2000 Hours: Mon-Wed 12–2:45 pm, 5–8:30 pm, Thur-Sun 12-8:30pm Phone: (02) 9241 2436 How Man of Many Chose the Best Circular Quay Restaurants Our list of the best restaurants near Circular Quay offers some of the most picturesque dining locations in Sydney. Home to the Sydney Opera House, these restaurants offer unspoilt views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Kirribilli, and are a melting pot for some of the best restaurants in Sydney. We've been lucky enough to sample food (and special menus) from all of the restaurants on this list, often thanks to our friends in the industry. And while our round-up includes some fine-dining options that'll blow you away in both flavours and price-point, we've also done our best to include some value-for-money options for date night. Alternatives to Circular Quay Restaurants Sometimes finding a great restaurant that suits your taste buds can be a challenge. That's why we suggest you also check out our list of the best restaurants in Barangaroo, which is just around the corner from Circular Quay. If you're looking for a drink, our team of drinks experts have rounded up the best bars in Circular Quay for a fun night out. And finally, if you're in the Circular Quay area for Vivid, we highly recommend checking out our guide on all the best events and displays during the festival of light. Circular Quay Restaurant FAQs
NBC Sports
22-05-2025
- Sport
- NBC Sports
CeeDee Lamb on healed shoulder: I'm grateful to have two arms
CeeDee Lamb initially injured his right shoulder in a Week 9 game against the Falcons. The Cowboys wide receiver played through the pain, even after aggravating it in the Thanksgiving Day game against the Giants and before doing it again against the Bucs in Week 16 to end his season. The AC joint injury was a pain as was the recovery, Lamb said this week. 'The longest [rehab]. I want to say a good five months of real recovery and rehab,' Lamb said, via Schuyler Dixon of the Associated Press. 'I don't know. I'm grateful to have two arms. I can tell you that.' Lamb is participating in the team's voluntary offseason program, the first time he's done that since 2023. He did not show up to anything for the Cowboys last year until he signed a four-year, $136 million deal, which came only 12 days before the start of the season. 'The last time I had OTAs [Organized Team Activities] and training camp was 2023,' Lamb said. Lamb set career highs that season with 135 catches for 1,749 yards and 12 touchdowns, earning first-team All-Pro.
USA Today
22-05-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Cowboys' Cornerstones: PFF identifies Dallas' Big 3 for 2025
Cowboys' Cornerstones: PFF identifies Dallas' Big 3 for 2025 From relentless pressure to precision routes and veteran leadership, Dallas' foundation remains intact. The Dallas Cowboys might be facing more questions than answers as they head into the 2025 NFL season, but one thing remains clear: their top-tier talent is still among the league's best. In Trevor Sikkema's latest rankings for Pro Football Focus, the top three players for each team, the Cowboys are represented by Micah Parsons, CeeDee Lamb, and Dak Prescott. Entering the new season, it's hard to argue otherwise. Parsons, now entering his fifth year, continues to be the heartbeat of the defense. He earned a stellar 91.6 pass-rush grade in 2024, marking his fourth consecutive year at an elite level. No matter how much the offense's game plan for him, he's still managing to disrupt plays and tilt the field in Dallas' favor. His motor, versatility, and sheer explosiveness make him one of the most feared defenders in football. The Cowboys hope to have an extension for their cornerstone defender. Per Spotrac, Parsons' market value is $36.3 million per season, which would make him the second-highest paid defensive player behind Myles Garrett. On the other side of the ball, Lamb has fully evolved into one of the league's premier wideouts since his second season. With a 90.8 receiving grade and a team-high 27.8% target share last season, he once again went over the 1,100-yard mark and proved to be the quarterback's most trusted weapon. Whether it's in the slot or out wide, Lamb's ability to create yards after the catch remain central to Dallas' offensive identity. No. 88 got his wish of having a quality No. 2 in George Pickens, who the Cowboys acquired earlier this month by trade. Prescott, meanwhile, didn't quite replicate his near-MVP form from 2023. His big-time throw rate dipped to 4.5%, and his turnover-worthy plays ticked up to 4.7%. Still, he remains the steady presence under center and the emotional leader of this team. When he's on, the Cowboys are playoff contenders and even in a slightly down year, he's clearly among the franchise's most important pieces. As Dallas looks to end its decades-long Super Bowl drought, the path forward will once again be built on the shoulders of these three stars. Parsons sets the tone, Lamb moves the chains, and Prescott keeps it all running.
New York Times
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Times
Christopher Moore Gives Out ‘Cannery Row' to Convert Steinbeck Haters
In an email interview, the author of comic novels about Jesus ('Lamb') and Death ('A Dirty Job') shared what drew him to write about the artists Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele. SCOTT HELLER What books are on your night stand? 'The Village of the Vampire Cat,' by Lensey Namioka, and 'The Destroyer of Worlds,' by Matt Ruff. And I'm rereading my own novel 'Noir' because I'm writing another book with those characters. Describe your ideal reading experience. Settling on the couch in our screened-in porch in Ohio, under a blanket, during a summer thunderstorm, with a novel that completely immersed me in the story. Because I was about 11, I'd guess it was a Jules Verne novel. What's the best book you've ever received as a gift? Very early in our relationship my wife gave me a first edition of Steinbeck's 'Cannery Row,' my favorite novel of all time. It's the book that taught me to write with forgiveness and humor toward my characters and I'm eternally grateful for that lesson. (I always buy extra copies when I'm at a used-book store to give out to people who were ruined for Steinbeck by having to read 'Of Mice and Men' in high school.) Why do you think 'Lamb' has proved such a favorite among your readers? I think it's funny, it gives readers a sense they're doing something slightly naughty, like giggling during Mass, then they get a rush of vindication when they find out the book is sweet. 'Lamb' humanizes Jesus and allows the reader to see this character, not as the son of God, but as a likable, earnest and somewhat confused young man, through the eyes of a friend who loves him for those qualities, not because he 'saves the world.' What's the last great book you read? I've recently reread 'Don Quixote.' Cervantes illustrates the folly of chivalry and romance, while being entertaining and lyrical, and, I think, showing that there is value to aspiring to nobility of spirit. Maybe that's just what I want it to say. What books are you embarrassed not to have read yet? 'Pride and Prejudice.' I have seen numerous screen adaptations, so I know the story, but I'm relatively sure I'd get distracted while reading by trying to figure out how to plausibly get Elizabeth to become a ninja. What's your favorite book no one else has heard of? 'Last Days of Summer,' by Steve Kluger. It's a very funny epistolary novel set in the 1940s, about a kid who keeps writing to a baseball player on the New York Giants, pretending to have different diseases and begging the player to hit a home run for him. This feels like a moment in time that calls for satire. Why turn to the past instead? One, I really enjoy writing and I don't want to spend a moment more thinking about our current political situation than I have to. Two, the current reality seems so absurd I don't know how I could send it up. Everything is so profoundly stupid. Why Klimt and Schiele? Klimt because I admired his paintings, and Schiele because he was Klimt's protégé. But it started with wanting to write about Vienna in that period because it was a genius cluster: Klimt, Mahler, Freud, Richard Strauss, Walter Gropius, not to mention political figures like Trotsky, Tito, Stalin and Hitler. I picked 1911 because that's the year Schiele met Klimt's model, Wally Neuzil, and the relationship between painters and models would be central to the story. In real life, was either of them especially funny? Klimt wrote almost nothing about himself, or his art, for that matter, so it's hard to say, but there are a lot of photographs where he's dancing and celebrating, so it seems he very much enjoyed life. Schiele did write about himself and his art, and he seems very dour and self-critical, so not funny. In my book, the women in their lives are the funny ones. How much cultural history do readers need to know to appreciate 'Anima Rising'? If you've seen pictures of Klimt's work in books or online, and have some idea of the time period, the rest will fill in. It helps if you've read the original 'Frankenstein' or have seen an adaptation that's close to the novel, but I think 'Anima Rising' will work even if you don't have that background. What's the last book you read that made you laugh? 'Spook Street,' by Mick Herron. Your favorite book about art or an artist? Kurt Vonnegut's 'Bluebeard.' What's the most interesting thing you learned from a book recently? From one of Ben Aaronovitch's 'Rivers of London' novels, I learned that when they put the Underground through the city, they had areas where the trains came out of the tunnels to the surface, and they only demolished the backs of buildings to accommodate them. So there are houses in London that are nothing but brick facades of Victorian buildings. How do you sign books for your fans? Happy reading. Your pal, Christopher Moore
