brenzi Takes Another Stab at 75

"Open a book this minute and start reading. Don't move until you've reached page fifty. Until you've buried your thoughts in print. Cover yourself with words. Wash yourself away. Dissolve."

Carol Shields, Republic of Love

"It would be a good thing to buy books if one could also buy the time to read them; but one usually confuses the purchase of books with the acquisition of their contents." Arthur Schopenhauer, 'On Books and Writing' (1851) in A Book Addict's Treasury (stolen borrowed from bonniebooks' thread)







Currently Reading:

The Children's Blizzard by David Laskin

Take It Or Leave It Challenge - January

The Invisible Bridge Top Rated Books Challenge
Case Histories - First Book in a Series Challenge
The White Family - Book Rated Between 3.8-4.2 on LT
The Girls - Vowels in Alphabetical Order
Major Pettigrew's Last Stand - Book with an Official in the Title
Solo - Book Rated Below 10,000 on the LT Popularity Rating



BOOKS READ IN 2011

7. Solo by Rana Dasgupta - Bulgaria 3 stars
6. Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson - UK 4 stars
5. Every Man Dies Alone by Hans Fallada - Germany 5 stars
4. The Girls by Lori Lansens - Canada 4.5 stars
3. The White Family by Maggie Gee - UK 4.5 stars
2. Case Histories by Kate Atkinson - UK 4.5 stars
1. The Invisible Bridge by Julie Orringer - Hungary/France 5 stars

*waits for the frills*

I've decorated it with my own yellow star!

Frills, schmills. I am just glad to see you back with us for 2011, Bonnie!

Oh dear...frills...I'm allergic to ruffles, bows, and rick-rack! Maybe I can cross this thread off my list....

Hi Bonnie, I am starting with a "naked" thread, too. I was just so excited to see the group forming that I jumped in without any kind of plan. Now my plan is to begin anew on 1/1/11.

Welcome back!

Hey Bonnie! I don't have a plan either - but then again I never do....

Plans? We are supposed to have plans?

Well I don't know about plans but Jim automatically doubled the number of threads I can't keep up with when he added the 2011 75 book challenge. Geesh.

Plans? I've never heard that word before... is it German? No, too short for German obviously. What does it mean I wonder?

Bonnie- You seemed hesitant about starting a new thread, so I was a bit surprised, to see you over here! Welcome aboard, my friend! Looking forward to another fantastic reading year!

Just dropped by to thank you for the warm welcome, this group is certainly very friendly to newbies, you all make us feel right at home.

Bare bones is fine for now, Bonnie ... I'm going to keep checking out your thread on the 2010 group for the reset of the year.

Hi Bonnie! Just found your 2011 thread, Yeah! If only I could find your latest thread for 2010...Back to searchin'.

Jim automatically doubled the number of threads I can't keep up with when he added the 2011 75 book challenge. Geesh.
LOL!

I do have you starred over here now, Bonnie!

Happy Holidays, brenzi.

Last year was a year of discovery for me; I discovered old classics like Pride and Prejudice, Jane Eyre, Middlemarch (possibly my #1 book of the year),Rebecca (swoon), The Plague, All the King's Men,The Return of the Soldier, O Pioneers, Dracula, and Chess Story.

I also discovered new authors that I want to read more of, such as Bonnie Jo Campbell American Salvage, Jennifer Egan A Visit From the Goon Squad, Adam Ross Mr. Peanut, Tatjana Soli The Lotus Eaters, and Daniyal Mueenuddin In Other Rooms, Other Wonders.

I re-discovered the mystery by reading all of Louise Penny's Three Pines series. Do we dare hope for Book 7 sometime this year?

And I discovered some pretty fantastic non-fiction too, like The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, The Worst Hard Time, The Devil in the White City, Packing for Mars and Nothing to Envy:Ordinary Lives in North Korea

I read some terrific memoirs such as The Liar's Club, and Too Close to the Falls which brought back childhood memories for me.

All in all, a terrific year of reading. So how will 2011 play out? Well I want to get to more of the classics because I found that I really, really enjoyed them. On my shelf now I have My Antonia, Emma, Persuasion, The Picture of Dorian Gray, Age of Innocence, Madame Bovary, The Woman in White, The Moonstone, Great Expectations, The Count of Monte Christo The Radetzky Marchand Brideshead Revisited.

I have a couple of mystery series to start including The Mistress of the Art of Death, The Beekeeper's Apprentice, In the Woods by Tana French Death of a Red Heroine and Susan Hill's The Various Haunts of Men.

I have a couple of non-fiction reads waiting for me too, including The Children's Blizzardand The Forger's Spell

I have some memoirs I want to get to including Rick Bragg's All Over but the Shoutin' and Vladimir Nabokov's Speak, Memory, Amitav Ghosh's In An Antique Land, and Mary Karr's Cherry.

Yes my shelves should keep me very busy in 2011. I hope everyone else has as good a selection as I do :)

#18: Inspired by Tina, I am going to do a year-long 'Biographies/Autobiographies/Memoirs' challenge in 2011, Bonnie. I have read the Bragg and Nabokov books already, but I cannot wait to see what you think of the other two on your list. Perhaps they will make mine for the year as well.

I love your summary of your discoveries and rediscoveries in 2010!

>18 brenzi:: I re-discovered the mystery ... I came to appreciate this genre more in 2010 as well, thanks for reminding me! They are a really nice break after a run of classics or "serious" stuff.

>19 alcottacre: Thanks Stasia. I think I had my fill of the abused child/crappy childhood memoir so I have high hopes for the Ghosh and Nabokov memoirs.

>20 lauralkeet: I hadn't really read a mystery in 15 or 20 years Laura but I really enjoyed the Three Pines series so I'm looking forward to other mysteries recommended here on LT.

Hi, Bonnie. Happy New Year to you too! I'm looking forward to more good book recommendations from you in 2011 (and to hearing about all the wedding preparations). Are you still covered in snow these days?

ETA: I like your book cartoon in Msg #1!

Dropping by to wish you a Happy New Year - all the best for 2011

Happy New Year, Bonnie! I love your to-do list! You will love Rick Bragg and if you need more mystery suggestions. :-}

>23 phebj: Hi Pat, we have no snow left here to speak of. Today it was fifty degrees and tomorrow too. Whoo hoot!! Yay for mild weather :)

>24 sally906: Hi there Sally and thanks for the New Year wishes.

>25 msf59: Oh right Mark, I also have Faceless Killers on my shelf thanks to you. I hope to get to that one in 2011 too.

Happy New Year, brenzi!

oo oo oo I have some of the same selections waiting for me as you do - will look forward to comparing notes. Happy New Year!

>18 brenzi: We have a lot of books in common in terms of those we want to read this year and in our libraries. I'll look forward to seeing how your reading year progresses. And I absolutely loved In an Antique Land, though it is less a memoir than a history. Enjoy and Happy New Year!

>18 brenzi: Your bookshelf of classics to be read looks wonderful! I've enjoyed most of them, but a long, long time ago (maybe in a galaxy... well, you know). I look forward to your thoughts on them as the year progresses.

>27 jadebird: Back atcha jadebird!

>28 Milda-TX: Happy New Year Trish; we'll compare notes.

>29 katiekrug: Memoir. History. Whatever. I loved Ghosh's Sea of Poppies so I'm looking forward to his wonderful writing Katie.

>30 ffortsa: Hi Judy! Yes those classics are mighty tempting aren't they?

>31 brenzi: I am hoping to read Sea of Poppies this year. His writing really is beautiful.

Oh dear! I couldn't find you anywhere!

*relief*

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year. It's going up to 52 here today! Howzzat for ridiculous?

Happy New Year, Bonnie!

Hellooooo Bonnie!!

Adding Amitav Ghosh to my list of must-read authors...

Happy New Year Bonnie. Hope your shoulder's all healed, but that you can continue to enjoy your time off.

Happy New Year Bonnie! I share a lot of the classics you want to read this year and also want to feature plenty of those. Here's to plenty of good reads in 2011, no matter what the genre!

see, I only thought I couldn't find you.. glad I was wring :P

Hi Bonnie! Finally made it! :) Star!

Hi Bonnie, your plans for this year are inspiring.

Great roundup of last year's reading and projections for 2011 in Message 18, Bonnie. If and when I get caught up with life and LT I'm going to sit down and do some cogitating about my book life.

Best of reading to you in 2011. I'll be following in your footsteps as usual...that sounds better than "stalking."

Hi Bonnie...just stopping by to say hello.

Hi there everyone. Thanks for stopping byTad, Donna, Kerry, Claudia, Kath, Illana, Deborah, Suzanne, Roni, Luxx, Lucy and Katie.

Christmas Update:

I got these books for Christmas: The Invisible Bridge by Julie Orringer, Major Pettigrew's Last Stand, Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand and The Thousand Autumns of Jacob de Zoet by David Mitchell.

Also from Mark's Christmas Swap Stasia sent me The Day the World Came to Town and In an Antique Land: History in the Guise of a Traveler's Tale by Amitav Ghosh.

I'm reading The Invisible Bridge now and it's excellent.

HI Bonnie. I hope this message finds you well. Are you back to work? I return next week. I'll get a break for a week because the students aren't back on campus yet.

Hi Bonnie, Catching up on some posts and stopped to say hi. Middlemarch is one of my all-time favs. Maybe I'll do a re-read this year. Also loved Nothing to Envy. Looks like you have some great classics planned for this year. Look forward to your reviews!

I'm so glad you are enjoying The Invisible Bridge. I have to track down a copy. You will love Major Pettigrew. It's terrific. A friend from work, just lent me her unread copy of Unbroken. I will start it, as soon as I'm done with Tenderness.

Hi, Sis! I keep hearing about Nothing to Envy. I want to concentrate on my TBR's but will keep an eye out for that one. And let's read some classics together, OK?

I too got Unbroken for the holidays and am hoping to read all three others that you got. The Invisible Bridge was one I hadn't heard of before, but have added to the top-ish of my TBR list.

Hi Bonnie, my first visit this year...where has the time gone! I have Woman in White and Moonstone on my TBR pile this year. If I know when you plan on reading them I can read a long with you.

>46 Whisper1: Hi Linda, no not back yet; probably another couple of weeks. I hope you're feeling as good as I am :)

>47 labfs39:, 50 Hi there Lisa, Unbroken was a surprise for me but I loved Seabiscuit.

>48 msf59: I'm really looking forward to Major Pettigrew, Mark.

>49 bonniebooks: Hi Bonnie, yes let's. What have you got in mind?

>51 Carmenere: Hi Lynda, Read along sounds good.

I'm really enjoying The Invisible Bridge, too, Bonnie! (Had to nip in here to see what you thought about it...)

Hi, Bonnie! It sounds like you got some good books for Christmas!

Happy reading!

I am envious of your Christmas haul, Bonnie but also very pleased for you. I'll be watching out for your review of Unbroken *hmm.. odd, touchstone not working*

Good luck this year, Bonnie! I'll be interested to see what you think of Major Pettigrew and The Invisible Bridge, especially.

Got you starred! Happy New Year Bonnie!

Great Christmas haul, Bonnie. I hope you enjoy all the books!

Happy New Year, Bonnie!

Bonnie, I'm really having a difficult time getting into All the King's Men. Did you have this problem too? The dialect slows me down, even more than usual.

Hi everyone. I will savor the last 50 pages of The Invisible Bridge tonight. Wow!! What a fabulous read! Definitely a keeper that will come up for a reread at some point.

>60 Carmenere: Hmmm, I think I got into right from the start Lynda. Maybe not the right time for you??

I'm going to definitely have to check The Invisible Bridge out of the library. It's been on my "want to read" radar, but I've just not picked it up yet. Maybe I can get to it next month.

#61 - Your comments around LT about The Invisible Bridge just might make it my first book purchase of 2011. It sounds wonderful!

Wedding Update

We have a venue!!

Here are a couple of pictures of the place that we are so happppyyy we could book.

Oooh, gorgeous! Is the ceremony going to be in the gazebo?

No the ceremony will be in a church and we'll have to be blessed with gorgeous weather on Oct. 22 for us to be able to use the outdoor facilities so we're keeping our fingers crossed :)

It looks beautiful, Bonnie. I am so going to enjoy your wedding updates.

beautiful!

October is a wonderful time for a wedding! What a beautiful place for a reception.

I'm adding The Invisible Bridge to the tbr pile. A few years ago I read How To Breathe Underwater. Julie Orringer is a great author.

Gorgeous! Beautiful! What an event!

That looks like a wonderful place, Bonnie !! How exciting.

I agree with everyone else - beautiful place, Bonnie!

Just lovely, Bonnie. Even if the weather doesn't cooperate, just the view from the windows is great.

I had been waiting for The Invisible Bridge to come out in paperback this month and then I decided not to buy it yet because I have too many books, but now I'm not so sure I want to wait any longer... I'm glad you're loving it!

How exciting--a major decision taken care of. Looks beautiful, Bonnie. Looks like you're really having fun helping your daughter out.

The reception site looks so beautiful!!! How exciting!

Gorgeous venue!

*pats foot impatiently awaiting The Invisible Bridge review*

The venue looks beautiful, Bonnie.

The Invisible Bridge sounds like a good'un. Looking forward to the review.

Beautiful - you must be so excited!

1.



The Invisible Bridge by Julie Orringer 5 stars

This book will not be for everyone but for me I could not put it down. Yet at the same time I didn't want it to end. Sublime prose. Painstakingly researched historical fiction. If you can't stand the thought of another Holocaust book, you may want to let this go. But if you have room for a beautifully told story, an emotional roller coaster, a gut wrenching look at the war years in Hungary, that leaves you with some hope for the future, this may be the book for you.

From my review:

I didn’t want this book to end and savored the last hundred pages even though the subject matter was so dark and horrific. I just had to know what happened to these characters that I had grown to know so well and care so much about. Julie Orringer is a fabulous storyteller and at first, 600 pages seemed to beg for an editor but it really took that many pages to tell the epic story of Andras and Klara Levi and their families from 1937 through the end of WWII.

The story opens in 1937 as Andras is leaving Budapest for Paris, having unexpectedly won a scholarship to the Ecole Especiale d’Architecture to study. It is there that he meets the beautiful, but much older former Hungarian, Klara Morgenstern, a single mother, who teaches ballet to young French girls. She has a secret past that Andras has great difficulty extracting from her. They fall in love and so begins the family saga. In the background, antisemitism is luring its ugly head in France and the early rumblings of war are on the horizon.

The rest of my review is here.

Thumbed and wishlisted. Lovely review, Bonnie.

Bonnie- Another fantastic review! I'm with Joanne, I might have to break down and buy this one in paper! What a great year in'10 for book releases!

This sounds great Bonnie. Thumbed and WL'd by me too. Now if only I had more time to read!

Fantastic review, Bonnie. Thumbed you. Definitely one I have to add to my obese wish list. *sigh* ... my poor morbidly obese wish list is going through something akin to waterboarding today, it seems.

Too. Many. Books.

Great review!

Hi Mark, Pat, Caro and Joanne, it's great starting the year off with a 5 star read. But yes Joanne, way too many books.

Congratulations on finding a wedding venue Bonnie! I know how difficult that can be. Fingers crossed for perfect weather on your day. :)

>79 brenzi:: I knew I'd love that book. I only have to read the first two paragraphs of your review of The Invisible Bridge to make me want to dive right in. Lucky for me, I have two great books lined up next. Make that three as I picked up one from the library last night. The two Dunmore books that you loved and Unbroken which I see you will be reading soon.

The venue for the wedding reception is gorgeous. Our oldest son's autumn wedding in Denver had perfect weather for their outdoor location. I'll keep my fingers crossed for you. That gazebo will be the perfect place for some memorable pictures. I'm so excited for you, Bonnie.

Wonderful review, Bonnie. If I did not have it in the BlackHole already, I would add it again!

NO thread is safe to visit... so much blue text!
:)

How ya doing Bonnie.. :)
You have been on my mind.. going back to work and all :(

Saying hello as I pass through. The Invisible Bridge is going onto the heap. Excellent review.

>80 Eat_Read_Knit: Thanks Caty; missed you the first time through.

>86 madhatter22: Thanks Shauna. And thanks for the crossed fingers.

>87 Donna828: Donna I'm going to stick my neck out and predict that you're going to love this book.

Exciting times for sure; on Jan. 17 we begin the hunt for the wedding gown! Yippee!!

>88 alcottacre: Thanks Stasia.

>89 mckait: Not going back to work for another couple of weeks Kath but I am doing very, very well. Fabulous actually.

>90 sibylline: Thanks Lucy!

Have a great time searching for the perfect gown, Bonnie!

I'm hopelessly behind, but your venue is absolutely gorgeous and I'll be back to read your review soon!

The invisible Bridge is already on my tbr list, loved your review.

>92 alcottacre: Hi Stasia, will do :)

>93 Smiler69: Hi there Ilana, I think we're all hopelessly behind. How could we not be?

>94 avatiakh: Thanks Kerry!

Great review of The Invisible Bridge, Bonnie! That was one of my favorites of 2010. Parts of it were very hard for me to read, but I was impressible with Orringer's ability to tell a story. Glad you like it!

Loved your review of The Invisible Bridge. Not sure I'm ready to read it. I shall think on it a bit.

Finally found you with that WIKI thing. Phew! Thought I'd lost you. ; ) Now I have to go back and read your thread! LOL

>96 porch_reader: Hi there Amy, Orringer is a terrific storyteller. I'm looking for her short story collection How to Breathe Underwater.

>97 tymfos: Thanks Terri.

>98 Berly: I love that WIKI Kim.

Bonnie- Great review! I love your enthusiasm! I was blown away by this one too, but the next 2 Jackson Brodie books are quite good also. She always mixes the formula up, keeping it fresh.

You're not quite the last the read Case Histories although I do plan on reading it next month. I have been told that once you start, it's very hard not to just keep reading on through her series. Your review makes me even more excited to start!

Another person who has it sitting on her shelf but has not read it yet, right here. Not sure why, maybe because everyone here keeps giving me more and more awesome recommendations!

So glad it's on my Kindle and my reading plan for the month. (Wait a minute -- how on EARTH did I get to the stage where I have such a thing as a reading plan???)

Count me among the (probably) few who have not yet read Case Studies ... but it is, at least in my obese wish list. Good review, Bonnie... you're tempting me to make a concerted effort to grab a copy sooner rather than later.

Super review Bonnie! You really captured some of the nuances in this book -- so much more than a detective novel, as you said.

Oh, count me too! It's on my shelf, but I may not get to it until next month, alas. Glad to know it's a goodie.

So glad you loved Case Histories, but really, how could you not! :) Great review!

I loved it and I credit Atkinson for getting me back into reading mysteries, a genre I had dismissed as not for me. I've got the first three lined up for a reread soonish. And happily, you've got three more Brodie books to look forward to. Yay!!

I'm planning to read Case Histories, too. I think it's at the county library. Thanks for reminding me to bump it up the list!

Bonnie, I'm happy you loved Case Histories. I read it, and One Good Turn, with a book group about 5 years ago and loved both of them. I need to get to the 3rd one, When Will There Be Good News, so I'll be ready when the new one comes out. Thumbs up on another great review.

Hi Bonnie! Just added my thumb to your hot review of Case Histories. You really have me intrigued, so it will probably be added to my pile! I love the way you said, proper amount of violence!!!!

I also haven't read it yet but it's sitting on my TBR shelves, staring at me accusingly. Better bump it up a few notches on the to read list!

I think that was the first Kate Atkinson I read a couple of years ago. Very good. I've got the next two in the series and you've reminded me I need to add those to my reading list this year. I also quite enjoyed Behind the Scenes at the Museum. It's very different and not a detective mystery, but I thought it was excellent.

But, Bonnie, did you like it? That's what I want to know! ;-)

Adding the Kate Atkinson series to the wishlist. I have been ignoring glowing reviews of all four books for months, and now I have finally given in. Thanks for the review/recommendation, Bonnie. :)

I haven't read it either. I have it on my shelf.. in fact I have a couple of hers.
See why I am on the book buying ban? I think I cheated though.. I accepted a loan of a nook book from Stasia :P. Still..

I'm a huge Atkinson fan, glad to find another new one!

It looks like we have another Jackson Brodie fan here...although I'd have to say that you were more taken with the author than the protagonist! Thumb from me. I hope you've encouraged more people to read this entertaining series.

Yep, the Jackson Brodie train is one that I'm happy to ride with you! Maybe your fine review has inspired me to read the next one sooner - if I can dig out of my current pile.

This book sat on my shelf since the huge AAUW book sale last spring. Hmmm, just goes to prove the 'too many books" thing. Anyway, I have three other Atkinson books (including One Good Turn on my shelf right now that I am just going to have to make room for. This will probably be like Louise Penny was last year, where I wanted to stretch them out but just couldn't.

>101 msf59: Thanks Mark. BTW when i went to submit the review I noticed it was originally recommended by you. Thanks my friend.

>102 DeltaQueen50: Thanks Judy. Yes I'm staring at the next one right now.

>103 sydamy: Hi Sandy, awesome recommendations is right. Since I started following threads I have nothing but :)

>104 Chatterbox: Well Suzanne, my so-called reading plan just went out the window LOL.

>105 cameling: Caro, thanks, and do jump in. I think it's right up your alley.

>106 lauralkeet: Thanks Laura. Have you read any of her non-detective novels?

>107 ffortsa: Yep Judy. What is it about the acquisition of books that then just sit. I guess that's why so many 75ers have instituted a buying ban. Not me. I know when there's no way I can respect a ban :)

>108 Copperskye: It's good to have something to look forward to Joanne.

>109 tymfos: Yes I think her books are pretty easy to acquire Terri.

>110 phebj: Thank you Pat.

>111 L-Anne: Thanks Louanne. I hope you can make room for it.

>112 katiekrug: Hi Katie, yes do bump it up.

>113 Smiler69: Hi Ilana, yes I have Behind the Scenes at the Museum and hope to get to it.

>114 bonniebooks: Um, still thinking about it Bonnie; can't decide ;-)

>115 Eat_Read_Knit: Thanks Caty, we all give in at one point or another to one book or another.

>116 mckait: I don't think the loan of a book violates the ban Kath. That's right no harm, no foul:D

>117 sibylline: You too Lucy?

>118 Donna828: Thanks for the thumb Donna. Yes I was more taken with the author than the protagonist. I loved her writing and of course her wry humor.

>119 LizzieD: Thanks Peggy. I know I'm late getting on the train but at least I'm not still at the station ;-)

>121 brenzi:: No Bonnie, I haven't read any of Atkinson's non-detective novels ... yet. I have Behind the Scenes at the Museum on my shelves, patiently waiting for my attention.

Yes me too Laura; must try to wedge it in somehow.

Bonnie, I didn't realize she wrote mysteries. I had read Behind the Scenes and liked it. I will definitely check out the others. Should her mysteries be read in sequence?

Great review, Bonnie! Now, all I have to do is locate my copy so I can read it too!

>126 Oregonreader: Hi Jan; hmmm I don't know if it matters but I'm slightly OCD so I will be forced to read them in order ;-)

>127 alcottacre: Thanks Stasia, yes do start the hunt for it.

HI Bonnie

Congratulations on yet another hot review! I'll try to read Case Histories soon.

Great review Bonnie!

I hope you read Behind the Scenes at the Museum soon--I may be the odd person out, but I like her earlier, non-detective books more than Case Histories et seq.

I hope to have some time to read something, anything! tonight.
Yesterday evening was a loss.. although I read a book during work hours..
after all the cleaning was done. So the day wasn't a total loss book wise.

Hi Bonnie,
I'm making a valiant attempt to catch up on threads after being on vaca - it's taking me forever!
I was trying to ignore the good comments on Case Histories as it is a bland title and I never read Kate Atkinson. But I caved several messages ago. :P or :)
How can the whole world love it and I ignore it? Can never happen.
Also, WL for Invisible Bridge. Your enthusiasm is hard to escape!
Great reviews!

Is it time for a Jackson Brodie Fan Club?

>129 Whisper1: Thanks Linda. I think you'll like it.

>130 arubabookwoman: Hi Deborah, I hope to get to Behind the Scenes at the Museum sometime this year.

>131 mckait: I'm glad you managed to get some reading in at work. That sounds like a bonus :)

>132 -Cee-: Yeah catching up is an impossible premise that's for sure. It's insane this year Claudia.

>133 sibylline: I think you need to get one going Lucy!!

3.



The White Family by Maggie Gee 4 stars

Not for the faint of heart, this book was an honest look at racism in the streets of London that I found hard to put down. Thanks to Darryl for recommending this Orange Prize shortlisted book. From my review:

Alfred White, a man who has ruled his family with an iron fist, has been Albion Park’s park keeper for almost fifty years. During that time he has witnessed many changes in the neighborhood, but none scares him as much as the influx of foreigners and blacks. One day while on duty he suffers “an event’ and is admitted to the hospital. His stay brings his family to his bedside. They include May, his seemingly passive wife and mother who actually undermines Alfred’s brutish ways; oldest son and golden child, Darren, a journalist, flown in from the U.S. with his third wife; daughter Shirley, who has disappointed her father not once, but twice, first by marrying a black man and then, when she was widowed, by taking up with another black man; and youngest son Dirk, a skinhead, with a dead end job in a news shop, who seems to have inherited his father’s bigoted ways and carried them to an even further extreme.

The rest of my review is over here.

Bonnie, I saw on the TIOLI wiki earlier today that you had finished The White Family so I was on the lookout for your review. I'm glad you liked it. I'm curious what you thought of the ending--did you think it worked?

Great review and you got your first thumb from me.

Here you are! Had to hunt you down to report that I finished The Invisible Bridge and loved it. Can see re-reading it many times...

Great review of The White Family, Bonnie. I am reading that one for TIOLI this month too. Everyone here in the group who has read it has given it good reviews, so I am hoping I like the book too.

Nice review! Please don't mind me if I do not add anything in blue for a while though..

eta

uh oh.. when I went to thumb it, the LT psychic thingy said it just knows that I will love it!

I have a question.. what the heck is on the cover next to the hands???

Bonnie- Good review! The White Family sounds very good. Fortunately, Pat sent me her copy, so I'm set. Yah!

>137 Chatterbox: Yay Suzanne, I was sure you would. And yse it will sit on my shelf for a long time to enjoy again.

>138 alcottacre: Thanks Stasia, no I don't see any bad review of it.

>139 mckait: Uh I believe that is a woman's breast Kath.

>140 msf59: Thanks Mark. Enjoy!

Bonnie, I'm glad that you're reading such good books, but how can I possibly keep up with you??? Aren't you going back to work soon? You're just having too much fun with your reading these days. Now I know why I've started calling my wishlist a dream list!

Haha you know Donna if I were home all the time I might actually be able to read 75 books in a year. I certainly am having a lot of fun but the end is in sight I'm afraid. I go back Feb.1, a new, revitalized person, with new parts that work really, really well :)

Yes the wishlist is a joke.

Hi Bonnie,
Our book club was trying to decide what to read for March. We narrowed it down to Room and The White Family. So I emailed some info to help them with decision... results were 3 for Room, 2 for White Family, and 8 no preference. What a group! We're going with Room this time, but thinking about the White Family for later. What do you think of this book for a group of 60-95 yrs old-fashioned, pampered white ladies?

I will definitely read this one myself someday.

Hi Claudia, this book screams for a book discussion group; much, much to be talked about, none of it comfortable. A laundry list of topics: mixed marriage, the effects of diversity on the city, bigoted people and their integration in society, skinheads, gay lifestyle, emotional abuse and its long term effects on children......95!! Really? Wow, I hope I'm still going great guns by then too.

#145: I hope I'm still going great guns by then too.

Me too - as long as my knees hold out!

De-lurking to say I have added Invisible Bridge to the top of my wishlist, found Case Histories on my shelf collecting dust, and am still trying to get up the courage for The White Family. Great reviews, as always.

Well, Claudia, my father (about to turn 74) and members of his (mixed gender) book club just finished discussing Room and found it a great book, both to read and discuss...

Oh, good! Thanks, Suz. Thanks for your input. I feel better now - since the decision kinda fell to me by default.
If I had voted for Room, it would be the clear winner, if White Family, it would be a tie that I would no doubt have to break. I hate to be the decision maker for this group. :P
Anyway... this choice was probably a winner either way.

So are you reading ROOM? or ?

Yeah, Room.

I want to read them both, actually.
I want to read everything... Muwahaha! Everything!!

>147 labfs39: Thanks Lisa, I hope you find time to get to those two. I think you'll like them.

Bonnie

I note that you are currently reading The Girls by Lori Lansens. I'm curious to learn what you think about this book. I really liked it.

Hey, Sis! I just finished Room and enjoyed it until almost to the end. It would be a good discussion book, but the White Family sounds even better. Enjoy your "last days!" ;-)

I will have to read ROOM. I can't escape..

Hi, Bonnie! Your're doing some great reading, and writing great reviews!

Many thanks to Linda for recommending this gem of a book. I will be looking for more from this Orange Prize longlist author.

4.



The Girls by Lori Lansens 4.5 stars

From my review:

Wow! Did you ever come to a book having no idea what it was about? “The Girls” was that book for me and I was knocked off my feet by it. See if you can tell what it’s about from this opening paragraph.

“I have never looked into my sister’s eyes. I have never bathed alone. I have never stood in the grass at night and raised my arms to a beguiling moon. I’ve never used an airplane bathroom. Or worn a hat. Or been kissed like that. I’ve never driven a car. Or slept through the night. Never a private talk. Or solo walk. I’ve never climbed a tree. Or faded into a crowd. So many things I’ve never done, but oh, how I’ve been loved. And, if such things were to be, I’d live a thousand lives as me, to be loved exponentially.” (Page 3)

Well? Can you guess?

Find out here.

Bonnie, I did guess! Don't ask me how. (Maybe I read about it somewhere else and remembered subconsciously?)

Absolutely wonderful review! Thumb!

Great review, Bonnie! Thumb for you!

Wow you did?? You're good Terri. Thanks.

Thanks Claudia.

This is why I love LT. That was exactly the reason I didn't want to read this book (the subject matter) but after your review, I've put it on my wishlist. Great review, as always, Bonnie.

Exactly Pat. I would have never picked it up. If I can bring this book to one reader, my work is done. Thanks.

Bonnie- Good review of The Girls! Sounds interesting. I see you are reading Every Man Dies Alone. You are in for such a treat. Outstanding book, possibly my favorite of 2009. Enjoy!

Another wonderful review Bonnie. So many interesting books getting read here. I remember Linda had recommended this one not too long ago.

>164 msf59: In my tags for the book I noted rec by Mark :)

>165 Copperskye: Thanks Joanne. I thought you had read this one too.

Great review, and yet another thumb for The Girls. I have had this one near the top of the heap for so long now. The author is from here in Southern Ontario, and the novel is loved by many. I'm sure your review will entice a few more readers....

Louanne you must read this one. As I was reading and they described the southwestern Ontario vistas I thought "Louanne would like this one."

I didn't guess -- but you made me look! LOL...

Hahaha

I'm getting a new project started to get together great recommendations for books by themes. I've called it Books By Themes (BBT) and I'd love to have your suggestions! Here's the link.

Fun review to read, Bonnie! You always get me to click on the link to read more. :-)

I did guess! And the review is beautiful! Thumbed of course..
The book sounds wonderful. What made you pick it up if you didn't know what it was about? Did someone recommend it? I am often curious as to why people read a book. Unless of course it is one of those over hyped blah blah blah books that one has a hard time escaping reference to. I think those just beat peoples resistance down and get read in hopes that they will go away.. lol

How are you?
Are you back to work? I have had you and Linda on my mind..
it is so hard to go back after a break.. I am hoping it goes well for you.

>172 bonniebooks: Gotcha!

>173 mckait: Linda recommended it and then over in the Orange January/July group Joyce said "The Girls is one of those books that just makes me proud of the Orange Prize." That really got my curiosity piqued.

I'm doing great Kath and will return to work on Feb. 1. it is so hard to go back after a break.....Truer words were never spoken!

Bonnie
I am so glad you loved Lori Lansen's book The Girls. Here other two are great as well:

Rush Home Road
and
The Wife's Tale

Rush Home Road was a five star book for me.

Good luck with your return to work. I'm glad you are feeling better.

The Girls was an excellent book! After I finished it I felt like I KNEW these girls. I kept thinking about them over and over. It's been at least a year since I read the book and I still remember it vividly. Very well done novel. I'm so glad you liked it!

>175 Whisper1: It looks like lots of people like it Linda. I'm so glad you recommended it.

>176 BookAngel_a: Yes Angela, exactly; I felt like I knew them too.

Two more weeks.. ?
That is a good thing!

A very good thing :)

#157: I loved that one too. Glad to see the book has found another fan!

Hey Bonnie, guess what? I won a copy of The Invisible Bridge in an Orange January giveaway on Facebook. I'm so excited !!! Between that book and The White Family, you are threatening to topple my tbr pile !

drive-by hug

>180 alcottacre: Thanks Stasia.

>181 lauralkeet: I saw Jill was giving that one away yesterday. Lucky you, Laura. I think you're going to really like it. I, on the other hand, have won exactly nothing. Grrrrrrr.

>182 richardderus: Hi Richard. **waves**

>181 lauralkeet:: I've won two Bonnie, much to my surprise b/c I never win anything. The other book is The Quickening. I'm not familiar with this one at all! But I can share. And I might not even make you burn PBS credits :)

Two??? Well, what can I say to that? You don't have to pity me Laura. You can ignore my whining because Jill is giving another one away on Saturday so I still have a chance ;-)

Good luck Bonnie! I won't be entering any more because I feel greedy enough as it is.

Wedding Update

Wow! Busy, busy week. We started off on Monday hunting for the perfect wedding gown...Store #1: I'm learning a lot about wedding gowns that I never knew. Let's face it's been almost 40 (!) years since I was in the market for one, so everything is new to me. But Sara thought she knew what she wanted based on the closet-full of bridesmaid dresses we have. (We claim to own the movie title "27 Dresses.") Yes she's been in many weddings and can spot a "bridezilla" from a hundred yards away. Anyway, the mother of the bride sits in the viewing area and the store personnel get the dress onto the bride-to-be in the dressing room and bring her out for the reveal. Oh my! One dress after another and, well, they all look absolutely stunning to me. How in the world to pick?? Well, they don't all look so great to Sara so after about probably ten gowns she narrows it down to two that we will consider. We stop for lunch and talk about what we've seen so far and one of the gowns is really growing on her.

On to Store #2. This time the store is laid out differently and I have a spot right in the dressing room. But once again, the dresses come on, the dresses come off and to me they're all just beautiful. But as we get to the narrowing of choices I'm noticing a trend.....the favored dresses are getting more and more expensive. Hmmmm. Ok, well we find our two favorites and eliminate the two from the last place.

Last stop for today is store #3. Unlike the last two places, we didn't need an appointment here so we didn't know what to expect. We start looking through the racks and are soon asked if we would like help. Well, you can't really do this w/o help so she asks Sara a few questions about what she is looking for and they proceed to the dressing room with many, many gowns and I take my seat in the viewing area. I notice a sign that says, "Photographs may only be taken by a professional photographer. Absolutely NO CELL PHONE PICTURES ALLOWED. Well, I don't know what that's all about but I'm just a babe in the woods so what do I know. Anyway, here she comes with the first dress and this saleswoman knows exactly what she's doing as she immediately puts a veil on Sara, thereby forcing the release of the waterworks (mine, of course) and then she puts on what she describes as "lighting like you'll have on the dance floor at the reception" so that the dress (which is heavily beaded) is sparkling to beat the band. Oh my! Lovely! This dress quickly rises to the top of the heap. She tries a couple more and then she comes out in a little number that takes my breath away and I see her flashing me two thumbs up. The veil, the lighting, the gasps from me when I get close enough to see the price tag, but forget it; it's done; this is THE ONE. The saleswoman leaves us to discuss it, and why not, she's done her job but there's really nothing to discuss. "This is exactly what I've been looking for." Really, I wonder why we bothered with those other top contenders? Oh well, how can we not be ecstatic to have found such a perfectly stunning wedding gown. **sigh**

After the measurements are taken and we pay they order it and we're all set with probably the most important item for the wedding. I would send you to the website to look at a picture of it but apparently the maker, Robin Jillian, doesn't put any of its gowns online and only allows two retail stores per state to carry its line! Well, that explains a lot.

So we never expected to be done with this part of the wedding preparations this fast but, there you go. On to the next big thing.....photographer. More later.

Oh, Bonnie! That brings back such beautiful memories for me. Like you, I thought EVERY gown was gorgeous on my daughter, each one better than the last. I'm so glad you had such a great time and were so successful.
Happy Mom! Happy Bride! **sigh**
Can't wait for pictures of the actual wedding. :)

Glad the dress shopping went so well! :)

It's a real life "Say Yes to the Dress!" Congratulations to you both!!!

Awww! And such smooth sailing!

So when the saleswoman left, how many cellphone pictures did you take? ;)

Oh Bonnie, I haven't stopped to visit for so long.
1. The wedding venue is Beeee-autiful! The landscape is going to be awesome with color! Isn't it a shame such a gorgeous time of year and the days grow shorter?
2. Love the wedding dress shopping details. What a special time for all of you!

You've read some very interesting books lately, but they already have a spot on my wishlist , except for The Girls. I'm on the fence with that one.

Bonnie, I love your tale of wedding dress shopping! What an adventure, and it sounds like it turned out great.

I took my daughter prom dress shopping last spring (I'm convinced this is a necessary prerequisite to wedding gown shopping). Each dress she tried on required sending a photo to her date. No young man in his right mind would actually go prom dress shopping, but they can certainly comment from afar!

But why photos would be forbidden, I have no idea. I was recently in a popular clothing store with a group of teenage girls who wanted to snap a photo of themselves shopping ... and a staff member stopped them. I was a bit puzzled by that.

I was so happy to have the chance to shop with my daughter..
and we had the absolute nicest sales person.. we laughed and laughed!
Thanks for bringing back memories and for sharing your story ..

The photo thing is mostly to prevent copying of dress designs and details: like if you love a dress but know a dressmaker who can make it at half the price. They don't want that being done. The designer also doesn't want part of the dress copied, like a bead pattern or a specific way the bodice was cut, and adapted to a dress of your own.

When my best friend got married, we weren't allowed to take pictures of the dress or the bridesmaid dresses until we'd paid for them.

That whole shopping trip sounds like a major undertaking, but at least it went smoothly! I'm glad your daughter has found a perfect dress. :)

>188 -Cee-: Hi Claudia, glad to initiate happy memories for you. I'm keeping a journal of our experiences to savor all the wonderful times and :)

>189 BookAngel_a: Thanks Angela!

>190 LizzieD: Thanks Peggy. I had to google "Say Yes to the Dress." I had no idea there was such a TV show.

>191 Copperskye: You know what Joanne? We were so excited that we didn't even think of that. Darn. We can take one when we go for the bridesmaid dresses because the dress is paid for.

>192 Carmenere: I don't see how you would regret reading The Girls but I certainly understand the "too many books" thing.

>193 lauralkeet: Oh Laura I vividly remember prom gown shopping. What fun! Sending pictures to the date? That didn't happen since that was in 1999 and 2000---before cell phone pictures. But I have to say we were shopping on Martin Luther King Day so there were girls prom gown shopping and, yes, I saw a couple of guys, which I thought a little odd. And the store had a sign as you entered the dressing room area: No Men Allowed Beyond This Point! Haha.

>194 mckait: It's just such a wonderful time, isn't it Kath?

>195 lunacat: Thanks for that information Jenny. And thanks for visiting :)

>196 Eat_Read_Knit: Thanks Caty!

I loved the detailed description of the wedding dress hunt. It sounds like the perfect dress found you -- and Sara, of course! Those are such precious memories for those of us who've been there and such wonderful events for others to look forward to. We'll eagerly await that picture!

Bonnie, I'm absolutely loving following all the wedding plans. It brings back memories of planning my own wedding--such a special time. I think it's great that you're keeping a journal of the whole process. I'm so happy for you (and Sara too)!

Yeah! Wedding dress selected--how fun! Again, I'm jealous (already thinking about if I could finagle my way into my best friend's daughters' fittings). Great story, Bonnie! Hopefully, you can take some pictures of your daughter during the later fittings. They will bring back some wonderful memories when you look back on them. And aren't LT friends helpful?

Aack! Why don't I notice those lower-case "i's" before I sit "submit"?

Love your wedding dress story! Brings back memories of my two daughters shopping for wedding dresses. The eldest knew exactly what she was looking for - one trip and the dress was chosen. The youngest, well she's more like me, has difficulty making up her mind. Seven trips to different wedding shops but, as happened with you, when she tried on one particular dress, it was the ONE!

Thanks for sharing your wedding plans, it is such an exciting time for a family!

>199 Donna828: Donna I will say I did not anticipate how much I'm enjoying this journey :)

>200 phebj: Glad to bring back those old memories for you Pat.

>201 bonniebooks: Don't be jealous Bonnie, wedge your way into your friend's wedding gown shopping trips. Good for you.

>202 DeltaQueen50: Thanks Judy. Seven trips? That's a little more like what I had anticipated.

It does sound like lovely fun -- with a fourteen year old I hope it will be quite some time til I have the pleasure!

5.



Every Man Dies Alone by Hans Fallada 5 Stars

I am on a roll....another 5 star read that has been vegetating on my shelf for over a year and I finally got to it. Thank you Mark for the initial recommendation. From my review:

It’s 1940 and Otto Quangel’s life revolves around his job as foreman at a Berlin furniture factory and his wife, Anna, whom he loves unequivocally. He’s a quiet, undemonstrative man, preferring his private ruminations to mindless chatter with those around him. Yet when they receive word that their son has been killed at the front and Anna, in her initial stage of grief, refers to “you and your Fuhrer,” Otto knows he must do something to show her how wrong she is. He is not even a Party member, which she knows; what can he do to assure her and the world of his hate for the Nazi Party that is turning the lives of all Germans into a private hell? He devises a plan and Anna enthusiastically joins him in it, even after he warns her that if they are caught they will probably be charged with treason and executed.

Read more over here.

You are on a roll, Bonnie! Another great review, too. You got your first thumb from me. :)

Another 5-star read! Wow! Book is somewhere around the house, so you missed with that book-bullet, but I am really pleased that you're liking so many of your reads this year!

Bonnie- Excellent review! You did a great book justice! Now, we need to read more of this guys work!

Wow. Sounds very good, Bonnie!

Great review, Bonnie! Thumb from me...
Pretty soon, I figure I won't need a wish list when I go to the book store. I'll just have them load one of everything into the truck! Well, this book will no doubt be one of them! Sounds good.

This is definitely on my "to read" list (and already on my Kindle) although I can't remember at this point who initially recommended it. Possibly Rebecca? Anyway, must get to it soon...

Nice review Bonnie :) Isn't it good to have such good books right at hand?
Hope you are enjoying your days :)

Bonnie- Enjoy Major Pettigrew. It'll be a nice palate cleanser, after the Fallada.

Hi Bonnie!! Looks like you've been lucky to find some great books!! Enjoyed hearing about the wedding plans. Hope you guys have a wonderful time with all of the planning and everything is stress free!!!

>205 brenzi:: Bonnie, the only problem with reading such outstanding books is the disappointment when you finally read one that is only 'good.' I guess the solution is to keep reading 5-star books.

>206 phebj: Thanks Pat. I hope to keep rolling along:)

>207 richardderus: Me too Richard, me too.

>208 msf59: Yeah but Mark, Wolf Among Wolves, his masterpiece, is 1150 pages long!

>209 lauralkeet: It is Laura.

>210 -Cee-: I'm to the point where I'm only adding 4.5-5 star books. It gets a little ridiculous around here. So M-A-N-Y books!

>211 Chatterbox: I agree Suzanne; get to it soon.

>212 mckait: I am enjoying my last few days of fredom Kath :(

>213 msf59: Excellent description of the Major Mark.

>214 tjblue: Hi Tammy! We are having a fabulous time.

>215 Donna828: I am refusing to read books that are simply "good" Donna :)

So glad you loved Every Man Dies Alone, Bonnie. I bought a copy way back when Mark recommended it last year, but alas, it sits unread. I plan on getting to it very soon. Nice review!

Enjoy the Major! :)

I would be having major back to work heebeejeebees..
Want me to push you down the steps the day before you sre to go back?

Bonnie

I love the story of wedding dress shopping. It brings back wonderful memories of time spent with my two daughters as we found "the dress".

Every Man Dies Alone sits on my tbr pile. I believe Stasia recommended this one awhile back. There are so darn many books to read.. I thought I would read more while recovering, but alas, I set my goal too high.

Good luck to you with the wedding planning. Thanks for including us in the excitement.

Bonnie- Wow, Wolf Among Wolves is his masterpiece? I did not know this and I had no idea it was that massive. Have you read it?

>218 Copperskye: I am really enjoying the Major. I love the wry, dry English humor; reminds me somewhat of Pride and Prejudice.

>219 mckait: Yeah I do have the heebeejeebees Kath but I'll pass on taking a header down the stairs---ouch!

>220 Whisper1: Hi Linda, That seems to have resonated with lots of Moms Linda :)

>221 msf59: No Mark I haven't read it because it's 1150 pages long;-)

Hey Bonnie in New York, it's Bonnie in Atlanta.
My heart, look at that TBR pile! Well, I'm going to be popping in reading those reviews, checking wedding updates and looking at that pup of yours. Three Pines mysteries is on my book mooch list, Major, The Girls, right at the top of my TBR. Ok, back to my next book.

ok.. just thought I would offer. Some days I would take it :P

It's lovely to hear about your experiences wedding dress shopping and congratulations on finding the perfect dress. I'm preparing for my wedding at the moment and so have this to look forward to in a couple of weeks. It's very exciting!

Wedding dress shopping -- oh, I remember shopping for my own gown, only Mom wasn't with me (she was rather agoraphobic -- I was lucky to get her to the wedding). I was on my own for the big decision.

I absolutely loved my wedding gown; I grew to hate the dress shop. They are no longer in business, and I am sure I know why. Seems like when you're spending that kind of money, you ought to get a little respect. (They did, however, allow photos.)

>223 BONS: Hello Bonnie (that's three of us now), if you haven't started the Three Pines series, you're in for a treat. So you found Buddy eh? Well you have a sweet looking pooch yourself. Thanks for visiting.

>224 mckait: Thanks for the offer anyway.

>225 Ygraine: Hi Katie, How exciting for you to be getting ready for your wedding. You have many memories in the making to look forward to. Thanks for visiting.

>226 tymfos: Hi Terri, Oh that makes me so sad that your Mom couldn't be with you. I'm really hoping we don't end up hating the bridal shop.

I liked the dress shop where I got my dress. But I was bridesmaid for two of my cousins' weddings, and the women in that dress shop were creepy! They were very...hands on...too touchy feely...

Hi Bonnie! Just getting caught up, and got a little weepy reading the tale of finding the perfect dress!!!! That's so fantastic!!! Are you keeping a Mother-of-the-Bride journal of all these special memories?

Also wanted to add.....so happy to hear you are enjoying Major Pettigrew's Last Stand. It was such a hit with me, and I can't wait to hear your thoughts when you are finished!

Journalling the wedding preparations sounds like a terrific idea, Bonnie, and what a great keepsake for your family.

I have Every Man Dies Alone set aside to read this year. I am hoping that I enjoy it as much as other members of the group have done.

>229 BookAngel_a: Touchy feely?? Don't think I'd like that Angela.

>230 L-Anne: Yes I am keeping a journal Louanne. It's quite a wonderful time and you have it to look forward to.

>231 alcottacre: I'm pretty sure you will enjoy it Stasia.

6.



Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson 4 stars

Well most people have already read this delightful novel but, as Mark mentioned, it's quite a palate cleanser after Every Man Dies Alone. From my review:

What a delightfully charming story; fully fleshed characters, wry humor, timely societal topics, difficult family interactions, “not in my backyard” issues, and beautiful love story. It’s got it all. Major Pettigew is a respected member of the community of Edgecomb St. Mary, a small village in the English countryside. He believes in polite conversation, honor, duty, and dignity, all of which seem to be disappearing from proper English society. His life has run a fairly smooth course since the death of his beloved wife Nancy, six years ago. But suddenly his uneventful life is in some turmoil: his younger brother Bertie dies suddenly; beyond the shock and the grieving, the Major will finally be able to reunite the two Churchill rifles, twin weapons that his father divided between the Major and his brother, to be reunited upon the death of either of them. But something is amiss. Bertie forgot to put it in his will. And a new woman has entered his life: the lovely Mrs. Ali, local shopkeeper who is elegant and refined but also brutally honest and straightforward. And the major’s son Roger is full of surprises and does not seem to be able to live up to the expectations of his father.

Read more over here.

Thumb from me, Bonnie. I've been wanting to read this for some time and my husband came home with a $5 gift certificate from Target at Christmas time which I appropriated and decided to use on this book after I saw Jenn mention she had picked up Major Pettigrew's Last Stand at Target recently.

I'm holding my breath about how long your winning streak will last.

Bonnie- I loved your review! I hope your palate is now well-cleansed! LOL! What's up next for you? Like Pat mentioned, you are on a killer roll!

Wasn't that just a charmer?! Glad you liked it Bonnie!

Thumbs-upped your review!

I loved Major Pettigrew! Glad to see you enjoyed it too, Bonnie. Thumbs up from me.

>234 phebj: I'm hoping my streak goes on endlessly Pat.....................

>235 msf59: Up next Mark is my ER book Solo by Rana Dasgupta. I have high hopes for it because it was already on my TBR list since last year when Darryl raved about it (4.5 stars).

>236 Copperskye: Yes indeedy Joanne.

>237 richardderus: Thanks Richard.

>238 alcottacre: And thank you Stasia.

Bonnie - Your review made me remember how much I loved Major Pettigrew when I read it last year. I checked it out from the library, but think I may need to get my own copy so I can pass it on to my mom. Glad that your streak of good books is continuing!

Perfect introduction to Major Pettigrew, Bonnie! I'm always happy when I've already read the book, so that I can enjoy your reviews in full. :-) What are you doing in your last few days of freedom?

Bonnie
If Darryl raved about the book Solo, I'm sure it is a great book. I'm anxious to read your review...It will be another excellent one I'm sure.

It is a cold, damp and snowy NE PA evening. We trudged around it this mess today to get groceries and run errands, now we are home warm and dry and snug. I wish the same for you!

Bonnie, I just finished reading Solo and I thought it was a beautiful but sad book. I've just been catching up with your thread ... I'm sooooo behind thanks to a horrendous work week last week. But I had to tell you that I thumbed your review of Every Man Dies Alone and rushed to add it to my obese wish list.

I don't know what I would do without all the wonderful recommendations from my LT buddies ... oh wait... maybe it would mean I'd actually get to read most of the books in my TBR Tower and not add so many books to my near exploding wish list

7.



Solo by Rana Dasputa 3 stars

Well my streak is over. What started out as a really good book fell apart as I got into it and I ended up not being enamoured with it at all. Darryl and Caroline and lots of other people loved it though so take this review for what it's worth. From my review:

I am going to be brutally honest with this review even though I am in the minority and feel really, really stupid. This book left me shaking my head and sitting with my mouth gaping asking myself, “What just happened?” Although the writing was stunningly beautiful, I didn’t get this book at all. If I hadn’t had to write a review for an ER book, I probably wouldn’t have finished it.

It’s divided into two parts which the author refers to as Movements because music plays an important role in the book. The first part worked well for me. A one hundred year old Bulgarian man, blinded in a chemical accident, is looking back over his life in the Socialist/Communist country.

The rest of my review

Great review, Bonnie. I think this one I'll take out of the library just in case I have the same reaction as you did. Hope the next one is a good one.

I saw on another thread that it looks like you made it back to work for one day before you have another day off! Sounds good to me. :)

>244 brenzi:: thank you for reading a book I don't want to read, LOL.

*nods* what linda said! honesty is good.. it really is :)

Good review (gave it a thumb), but I'm still keeping it on the Giant Freaking Wishlist.

Bonnie- Don't they say, all good things must come to an end? Don't worry. I'm sure your next one, will be a doozy!

>245 phebj: I saw on another thread that it looks like you made it back to work for one day before you have another day off!

And as I said on that other thread, it's a tough job but somebody has to do it ;-)

>246 lauralkeet:, 247 I aim to please Laura and Kath.

>248 Fourpawz2: Go for it Charlotte. Where does it fall on the Rule of the Shelf? haha

>249 msf59: My next oneMark, is one that Stasia recommended that I've been looking forward to: The Children's Blizzard by David Laskin.

#250: Ack! The pressure, the pressure!

>250 brenzi:: The Children's Blizzard...how appropriate. Bonnie, did you suppose that maybe you aren't meant to be back at work yet?

Bonnie- I own a copy of The Children's Blizzard too! Looking forward to your response.

#250 - I read The Children's Blizzard last January, Bonnie. It made me feel cold just reading it and also lucky to live in these times with our good weather radars!

I read The Children's Blizzard a year or two ago. I really liked the book and the story of which I had been unaware. It's part of our history - a freaky meteorlogical event with no warning. More children survived than I would have expected - not totally tragic... though very sad at times to think about it.

Agree, The Children's Blizzard was a good read .

#250 - Oh, it has to get into the house before it can even aspire to being subject to "The Rule of the Shelf". Guess it will be years before I crack that cover.

I read The Children's Blizzard four or so years ago (I think) and liked it quite a bit. Very sad - some parts.

New Thread!!