Archive for the ‘Reviews’ category

good sentence alert!

January 18th, 2004

It's almost a groaner: "the 47 minutes of CV make a great addition to steve’s résumé." I often forget how well Paul writes.

Neverwhere is worth reading

December 11th, 2003

Neverwhere cover

Neil Gaiman's Neverwhere is worth reading, especially if you are looking for an interesting fantasy book. If you're looking for a coherent, tidy story, don't read it.

The story is based in two Londons, both in England: upper and lower London. It's full of mysterious characters. Gaiman's techniques of melding contemporary and medieval technology, language and characters are interesting. He tells the story directly, without resorting to simple exposition. I'd recommend it for holiday reading (although it is a tad on the dark side).

TD Waterhouse’s WebBroker sucks

November 13th, 2003

I just opened a WebBroker Self-Directed RSP account with TD Waterhouse. The SDRSP allows me to purchase non-TD family mutual funds and fixed income investments, like bonds. I was looking forward to using the new system. But it sucks.

In EasyWeb I can set up a Pre-Authorized Purchase Plan (PPP). This makes mutual fund purchases really easy and painless. I just create and modify PPPs online. It's easy to change what and how much I wish to purchase. I had assumed that this handy feature would be available in WebBroker. Hahaha. That would make too much sense.

Instead, I have to call TD Waterhouse and ask them to send me a form, which I have to send back to them. Then, once the form is processed, I need to call them back to set up my Systematic Investment Plan. What used to be a couple of clicks in EasyWeb is now two phone calls, a bunch of forms, and a void cheque. Unbelievable.

Igby Goes Down is very good

August 5th, 2003

Igby Goes Down is a very good movie, in a twisted, weird sort of way. It's definitely worth watching. If you want to borrow it, send me an e-mail.