My recent lack of book reviews is not because I haven’t been reading books. I’ve been reading a very long book for a while (one I enjoy, but which is taking forever). However, I’ve interrupted that to read a shorter book that someone has asked me to review (more on that anon). I also read a technical manual for a piece of equipment I’m in the way of acquiring. There will be reviews, in time (not of the technical manual, of course). Until then, I vamp.

Tonight’s vamp is Sonja Henie, who was born April 8, 1912.

Norwegians are ambivalent about her, even after all these years. On one hand, she was perhaps the greatest Norwegian celebrity of all time, and a world-beating winter sports athlete. Norwegians will forgive a lot in a world-beating winter sports athlete.

On the other hand, she knew Hitler personally (her husband did business with him), and got along with him quite well. She even gave him the straight arm salute once. Although as a Hollywood celebrity she supported the American war effort, she never lifted a finger to support the Norwegian resistance, something that left a very bitter taste.

Also she was by all accounts alcoholic, narcissistic, and promiscuous. You’ve heard the expression that starts with a vulgar “b” word, and ends with “on ice?” She could have been the inspiration for it, if she wasn’t the inspiration in fact.

Personally, I generally don’t go for the round-faced look, so she never did much for me in the movies.

In other news, Anthony Sacramone posted a new item at Strange Herring, apparently in response to my legendary powers of persuasion.

It’s not a funny piece, but we take what we can get.

Meanwhile, our people have him under surveillance.