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1hailelib
These challenges have been fun and have made my reading more diversified than it was in the past so I am definitely doing the "11 in 11".
The main goal will be to read eleven books in eleven categories and a secondary goal will be to keep a better balance between the different types of books than I have managed in previous years.
The main goal will be to read eleven books in eleven categories and a secondary goal will be to keep a better balance between the different types of books than I have managed in previous years.
2hailelib
My categories are largely a reworking of last year's and are deliberately a bit broad. Also I generally choose the books as I go since making a detailed list ahead of time feels too much like homework. There will be at least 2 along with scheduled group reads, however.
So, here we go:
I. Young at Heart -- for children of any age but mostly YA
II. Mystery and Suspense -- can include romantic suspense
III. Favorite Authors -- any genre or even nonfiction
IV. Next in Line -- I will try to read the 'next' book(s) in 7 or more series for a total of 11 books
V. Fantasy and Paranormal
VI. Anything Goes -- Any fiction that doesn't fit neatly into one of my other fiction categories.
VII. Spirit and Mind -- a.) from the KJV Bible: I Chronicles through at least Ezekiel - b.) Mythology, folklore, and legend c.)at least one each from philosophy and psychology/education.
VIII. Short and Sweet -- Essays, plays, poetry, short stories, books for children younger than the audience YA aims for.
IX. Science and Technology -- may also include history of science, invention,etc.
X. History, Biography/Memoir -- may also put in one or two biographical fiction as well as straight biography.
XI. Anything Goes Nonfiction
So, here we go:
I. Young at Heart -- for children of any age but mostly YA
II. Mystery and Suspense -- can include romantic suspense
III. Favorite Authors -- any genre or even nonfiction
IV. Next in Line -- I will try to read the 'next' book(s) in 7 or more series for a total of 11 books
V. Fantasy and Paranormal
VI. Anything Goes -- Any fiction that doesn't fit neatly into one of my other fiction categories.
VII. Spirit and Mind -- a.) from the KJV Bible: I Chronicles through at least Ezekiel - b.) Mythology, folklore, and legend c.)at least one each from philosophy and psychology/education.
VIII. Short and Sweet -- Essays, plays, poetry, short stories, books for children younger than the audience YA aims for.
IX. Science and Technology -- may also include history of science, invention,etc.
X. History, Biography/Memoir -- may also put in one or two biographical fiction as well as straight biography.
XI. Anything Goes Nonfiction
3hailelib
I. Young at Heart
1. Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder -- Finished January 4, 2011
2. The Reckoning by Kelly Armstrong -- Finished Jan. 21, 2011
3. The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan -- Finished Jan.30, 2011
4. Castle in the Air by Diana Wynne Jones - finished February 8, 2011
5. Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld -- May 2011
6. Behemoth by Scott Westerfeld -- May 2011
7. The Blue Djinn of Babylon by Philip Kerr -- finished June 6, 2011
8. The gathering by Kelley Armstrong (2011) -- mid-July
9. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins -- finished October 27, 2011
10. Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins -- Finished Nov 3, 2011
11. The Throne of Fire by Rick Riordan -- Finished Nov. 8, 2011
1. Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder -- Finished January 4, 2011
2. The Reckoning by Kelly Armstrong -- Finished Jan. 21, 2011
3. The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan -- Finished Jan.30, 2011
4. Castle in the Air by Diana Wynne Jones - finished February 8, 2011
5. Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld -- May 2011
6. Behemoth by Scott Westerfeld -- May 2011
7. The Blue Djinn of Babylon by Philip Kerr -- finished June 6, 2011
8. The gathering by Kelley Armstrong (2011) -- mid-July
9. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins -- finished October 27, 2011
10. Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins -- Finished Nov 3, 2011
11. The Throne of Fire by Rick Riordan -- Finished Nov. 8, 2011
4hailelib
II. Mystery and Suspense
1. Shadows in Bronze by Lindsey Davis -- Finished Jan. 17, 2011
2. Kilt Dead by Kaitlyn Dunnett -- finished Jan. 26, 2011
3. The Bookman's Wake by John Dunning -- finished Feb. 1?, 2011
4. Queen of the Night by J. A. Jance -- finished March 1, 2011
5. The Crossing Places by Elly Griffiths -- March 4, 2011
6. The Water Room by Christopher Fowler -- Finished April
7. Running scared by Lisa Jackson -- finished May 2011
8. Trio for blunt instruments; a Nero Wolfe Threesome by Rex Stout -- May 2011
9. Alone by Lisa Gardner -- finished May 2011
10. Love you more : a detective D.D. Warren novel by Lisa Gardner (2011) -- finished June 6, 2011
11. Fatal Error by J. A. Jance finished Nov. 4, 2011
1. Shadows in Bronze by Lindsey Davis -- Finished Jan. 17, 2011
2. Kilt Dead by Kaitlyn Dunnett -- finished Jan. 26, 2011
3. The Bookman's Wake by John Dunning -- finished Feb. 1?, 2011
4. Queen of the Night by J. A. Jance -- finished March 1, 2011
5. The Crossing Places by Elly Griffiths -- March 4, 2011
6. The Water Room by Christopher Fowler -- Finished April
7. Running scared by Lisa Jackson -- finished May 2011
8. Trio for blunt instruments; a Nero Wolfe Threesome by Rex Stout -- May 2011
9. Alone by Lisa Gardner -- finished May 2011
10. Love you more : a detective D.D. Warren novel by Lisa Gardner (2011) -- finished June 6, 2011
11. Fatal Error by J. A. Jance finished Nov. 4, 2011
5hailelib
III. Favorite Authors
1. Maybe This Time by Jennifer Crusie -- Finished Jan 5, 2011
2. In Too Deep by Jayne Ann Krentz --Finished Jan. 6, 2011
3. The Search by Nora Roberts -- Finished Feb 25, 2011
4. The Jackal's Head by Elizabeth Peters -- finished February 28, 2011
5. Treachery in Death by J. D. Robb -- finished March 8, 2011
6. Breaking the rules by Suzanne Brockmann -- finished May 2011
7. Quicksilver by Amanda Quick (2011)
8. Infamous by Suzanne Brockmann (2010) -- finished July 17, 2011
9. Heart search by Robin D. Owens
10. Unnatural issue by Mercedes Lackey
11. New York to Dallas by J. D. Robb -- finished September 23, 2011
1. Maybe This Time by Jennifer Crusie -- Finished Jan 5, 2011
2. In Too Deep by Jayne Ann Krentz --Finished Jan. 6, 2011
3. The Search by Nora Roberts -- Finished Feb 25, 2011
4. The Jackal's Head by Elizabeth Peters -- finished February 28, 2011
5. Treachery in Death by J. D. Robb -- finished March 8, 2011
6. Breaking the rules by Suzanne Brockmann -- finished May 2011
7. Quicksilver by Amanda Quick (2011)
8. Infamous by Suzanne Brockmann (2010) -- finished July 17, 2011
9. Heart search by Robin D. Owens
10. Unnatural issue by Mercedes Lackey
11. New York to Dallas by J. D. Robb -- finished September 23, 2011
6hailelib
IV. Next in Line
1. The Kalahari Typing School for Men by Alexander McCall Smith -- Finished Jan 3, 2011
2. The Full Cupboard of Life by Alexander McCall Smith -- finished March 12, 2011
3. If Books Could Kill by Kate Carlisle -- finished March 14, 2011
4. In the Company of Cheerful Ladies by Alexander McCall Smith -- finished late March 2011
5. Heart Fate by Robin D, Owens -- finished late March 2011
6. Heart Change by Robin D. Owens-- finished late March 2011
7. Heart Journey by Robin D. Owens -- finshed late March 2011
8. Changeless by Gail Carriger -- finished June 13, 2011
9. The gates of sleep by Mercedes Lackey (2002) -- finished mid-July
10. The good husband of Zebra Drive by Alexander McCall Smith (2007) -- August 2011
11. Spell bound by Kelley Armstrong (2011)
1. The Kalahari Typing School for Men by Alexander McCall Smith -- Finished Jan 3, 2011
2. The Full Cupboard of Life by Alexander McCall Smith -- finished March 12, 2011
3. If Books Could Kill by Kate Carlisle -- finished March 14, 2011
4. In the Company of Cheerful Ladies by Alexander McCall Smith -- finished late March 2011
5. Heart Fate by Robin D, Owens -- finished late March 2011
6. Heart Change by Robin D. Owens-- finished late March 2011
7. Heart Journey by Robin D. Owens -- finshed late March 2011
8. Changeless by Gail Carriger -- finished June 13, 2011
9. The gates of sleep by Mercedes Lackey (2002) -- finished mid-July
10. The good husband of Zebra Drive by Alexander McCall Smith (2007) -- August 2011
11. Spell bound by Kelley Armstrong (2011)
7hailelib
V. Fantasy and Paranormal
1. Silver Borne by Patricia Briggs -- finished January 1, 2011
2. Hunting Ground by Patricia Briggs -- finished January 16, 2011
3. Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison -- finished Feb. 26, 2011
4. No Mercy by Sherrilyn Kenyon -- finished March 10, 2011
5. Soulless by Gail Carriger -- Finished April 19,2011
6. Heart dance by Robin D. Owens -- Finished late May 2011
7. Blameless by Gail Carriger (2010) -- finished late June 2011
8. Pale demon by Kim Harrison (2011) -- finished late June 2011
9. Twice as Hot by Gena Showalter -- finished early July
10. Chronicles of Chrestomanci : volume 1. Charmed life and the lives of Christopher Chant by Diana Wynne Jones (2001) -- finished early July
11. Fortune's fool by Mercedes Lackey
1. Silver Borne by Patricia Briggs -- finished January 1, 2011
2. Hunting Ground by Patricia Briggs -- finished January 16, 2011
3. Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison -- finished Feb. 26, 2011
4. No Mercy by Sherrilyn Kenyon -- finished March 10, 2011
5. Soulless by Gail Carriger -- Finished April 19,2011
6. Heart dance by Robin D. Owens -- Finished late May 2011
7. Blameless by Gail Carriger (2010) -- finished late June 2011
8. Pale demon by Kim Harrison (2011) -- finished late June 2011
9. Twice as Hot by Gena Showalter -- finished early July
10. Chronicles of Chrestomanci : volume 1. Charmed life and the lives of Christopher Chant by Diana Wynne Jones (2001) -- finished early July
11. Fortune's fool by Mercedes Lackey
8hailelib
VI. Anything Goes -- Fiction
1. Sunrise Alley by Catherine Asaro - Finished February 14
2. Maisie Dobbs : a novel by Jacqueline Winspear
3. Heartless by Gail Carriger
4. The Miracle at Speedy Motors by Alexander McCall Smith
5. Dragongirl by Todd McCaffrey -- finished September 29, 2011
6. The Gun Seller by Hugh Laurie -- finished October 8, 2011
7. Bleak House by Charles Dickens --finished October, 21,2011
8. Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins -- finished Nov 11, 2011
9. Gideon's sword by Douglas J. Preston and Lincoln Child (2011) -- finished Nov. 27, 2011
10. Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan -- finished Dec. 9, 2011
11. Goliath by Scott Westerfeld--finished Dec.20, 2011
1. Sunrise Alley by Catherine Asaro - Finished February 14
2. Maisie Dobbs : a novel by Jacqueline Winspear
3. Heartless by Gail Carriger
4. The Miracle at Speedy Motors by Alexander McCall Smith
5. Dragongirl by Todd McCaffrey -- finished September 29, 2011
6. The Gun Seller by Hugh Laurie -- finished October 8, 2011
7. Bleak House by Charles Dickens --finished October, 21,2011
8. Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins -- finished Nov 11, 2011
9. Gideon's sword by Douglas J. Preston and Lincoln Child (2011) -- finished Nov. 27, 2011
10. Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan -- finished Dec. 9, 2011
11. Goliath by Scott Westerfeld--finished Dec.20, 2011
9hailelib
VII. Spirit and Mind
1. The Bible - Authorized King James Version with Apocrypha: I Chronicles through Job -- edited by Robert Carroll and Stephen Prickett -- finished January 8, 2012
2. Creative Mythology: The Masks of God by Joseph Campbell -- Part One and Part Two -- Finished Jan. 7, 2012
3. When they severed earth from sky : how the human mind shapes myth by E. J. W. Barber (2005) -- June 2011
4. Spinning straw into gold : what fairy tales reveal about the transformations in a woman's life by Joan Gould -- finished November 5, 2011
5 Being wrong : adventures in the margin of error by Kathryn Schulz -- finished December 16, 2011
1. The Bible - Authorized King James Version with Apocrypha: I Chronicles through Job -- edited by Robert Carroll and Stephen Prickett -- finished January 8, 2012
2. Creative Mythology: The Masks of God by Joseph Campbell -- Part One and Part Two -- Finished Jan. 7, 2012
3. When they severed earth from sky : how the human mind shapes myth by E. J. W. Barber (2005) -- June 2011
4. Spinning straw into gold : what fairy tales reveal about the transformations in a woman's life by Joan Gould -- finished November 5, 2011
5 Being wrong : adventures in the margin of error by Kathryn Schulz -- finished December 16, 2011
10hailelib
VIII. Short and Sweet
1. sailing, a lubber's dictionary by Henry Beard & Roy McKie - finished February 5, 2011
2. Welcome to the jungle by Jim Butcher (2008) -- Finished Nov. 27, 2011
3. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Cabin Fever by Jeff Kinney -- finished Dec 12, 2011
4. Maze of Bones, the 39 Clues -- by Rick Riordan
5. The Usborne Book of World Religions by Susan Meredith -- finished Dec. 31, 2011
1. sailing, a lubber's dictionary by Henry Beard & Roy McKie - finished February 5, 2011
2. Welcome to the jungle by Jim Butcher (2008) -- Finished Nov. 27, 2011
3. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Cabin Fever by Jeff Kinney -- finished Dec 12, 2011
4. Maze of Bones, the 39 Clues -- by Rick Riordan
5. The Usborne Book of World Religions by Susan Meredith -- finished Dec. 31, 2011
11hailelib
IX. Science and Technology
1. Soul Made Flesh by Carl Zimmer - Finished February 9, 2011
2. The Story of Stuff by Annie Leonard -- finished April 7,2011
3. Cro-Magnon : how the Ice Age gave birth to the first modern humans by Brian M. Fagan -- finished May 2011
4. Ambassadors from Earth : pioneering explorations with unmanned spacecraft by Jay Gallentine (2009) -- finished June 7, 2011
5. The 10,000 Year Explosion by Gregory Cochran and Henry Harpending -- finished September 28, 2011
6. Bad science : quacks, hacks, and big pharma flacks by Ben Goldacre -- finished Oct 13,2011
7. Science Secrets by Alberto A. Martinez -- finished October 18, 2011
8. The Voyage of the Beagle by Charles Darwin -- finished October 23, 201
9. Elixir: A History of Water and Humankind by Brian Fagan -- Dec. 31,2011
1. Soul Made Flesh by Carl Zimmer - Finished February 9, 2011
2. The Story of Stuff by Annie Leonard -- finished April 7,2011
3. Cro-Magnon : how the Ice Age gave birth to the first modern humans by Brian M. Fagan -- finished May 2011
4. Ambassadors from Earth : pioneering explorations with unmanned spacecraft by Jay Gallentine (2009) -- finished June 7, 2011
5. The 10,000 Year Explosion by Gregory Cochran and Henry Harpending -- finished September 28, 2011
6. Bad science : quacks, hacks, and big pharma flacks by Ben Goldacre -- finished Oct 13,2011
7. Science Secrets by Alberto A. Martinez -- finished October 18, 2011
8. The Voyage of the Beagle by Charles Darwin -- finished October 23, 201
9. Elixir: A History of Water and Humankind by Brian Fagan -- Dec. 31,2011
12hailelib
X. History, Biography/Memoir
1. The Peloponnesian War by Thucidides as translated by Richard Crawley -- started
2. 1959: the Year Everything Changed by Fred Kaplan -- finished April 2011
3. Greek fire, poison arrows, and scorpion bombs : biological and chemical warfare in the ancient world by Adrienne Mayor (2003) -- finished August 2011
4. The forgotten founding father : Noah Webster's obsession and the creation of an American culture by Joshua Kendall -- finished September 21, 2011
5. Battle of wits : the complete story of codebreaking in World War II by Stephen Budiansky -- finished September 25, 2011
6. Before Columbus: the Americas of 1491 by Charles C. Mann finished Nov. 20, 2011
7. The Bayeux tapestry by David M. Wilson (2004) - finished Nov. 20, 2011.
8. Six days in October : the stock market crash of 1929 by Karen Blumenthal (c.2002) - finished Nov. 22, 2011.
9. Language Visible by David Sachs -- finished Dec. 11, 2011
10. The war to end all wars : World War I by Russell Freedman -- finished Dec. 26, 2011
1. The Peloponnesian War by Thucidides as translated by Richard Crawley -- started
2. 1959: the Year Everything Changed by Fred Kaplan -- finished April 2011
3. Greek fire, poison arrows, and scorpion bombs : biological and chemical warfare in the ancient world by Adrienne Mayor (2003) -- finished August 2011
4. The forgotten founding father : Noah Webster's obsession and the creation of an American culture by Joshua Kendall -- finished September 21, 2011
5. Battle of wits : the complete story of codebreaking in World War II by Stephen Budiansky -- finished September 25, 2011
6. Before Columbus: the Americas of 1491 by Charles C. Mann finished Nov. 20, 2011
7. The Bayeux tapestry by David M. Wilson (2004) - finished Nov. 20, 2011.
8. Six days in October : the stock market crash of 1929 by Karen Blumenthal (c.2002) - finished Nov. 22, 2011.
9. Language Visible by David Sachs -- finished Dec. 11, 2011
10. The war to end all wars : World War I by Russell Freedman -- finished Dec. 26, 2011
13hailelib
XI. Anything Goes -- Nonfiction
1. Eat This, Not That! by David Zinczenko - finished Feb 19, 2011
2. The Paleo Diet: Lose Weight and get Healthy by Eating the Foods You Were Designed to Eat by Loren Cordain - finished April 4, 2011
3. Turning Points in Film History by Andrew J. Rausch -- finished April 8, 2011
4. House thinking : a room-by-room look at how we live by Winifred Gallagher -- finished early May 2011
5. The not so big house : a blueprint for the way we really live by Sarah Susanka -- finished June 1, 2011
6. The not so big life : making room for what really matters by Sarah Susanka (2007)
7. Not so big remodeling : tailoring your home for the way you really live by Sarah Susanka- finished Dec. 10, 2011
1. Eat This, Not That! by David Zinczenko - finished Feb 19, 2011
2. The Paleo Diet: Lose Weight and get Healthy by Eating the Foods You Were Designed to Eat by Loren Cordain - finished April 4, 2011
3. Turning Points in Film History by Andrew J. Rausch -- finished April 8, 2011
4. House thinking : a room-by-room look at how we live by Winifred Gallagher -- finished early May 2011
5. The not so big house : a blueprint for the way we really live by Sarah Susanka -- finished June 1, 2011
6. The not so big life : making room for what really matters by Sarah Susanka (2007)
7. Not so big remodeling : tailoring your home for the way you really live by Sarah Susanka- finished Dec. 10, 2011
14hailelib
First book of the year:
V. Fantasy and Paranormal #1
Could also be counted as a favorite author or as the next in a series.
1. Silver Borne by Patricia Briggs -- finished January 1
I actually started this book in December but put it aside as I was trying to finish my last few books for the 1010 challenge. When I decided that I would take my time over the last half of Voyage of the Beagle this one just cried out to be finished. Another of the Mercy Thompson books where we find out a bit more about the Fae and Mercy 's relationships with Adam and the other members of his Pack continue to develop.
From the public library. 342 pages.
V. Fantasy and Paranormal #1
Could also be counted as a favorite author or as the next in a series.
1. Silver Borne by Patricia Briggs -- finished January 1
I actually started this book in December but put it aside as I was trying to finish my last few books for the 1010 challenge. When I decided that I would take my time over the last half of Voyage of the Beagle this one just cried out to be finished. Another of the Mercy Thompson books where we find out a bit more about the Fae and Mercy 's relationships with Adam and the other members of his Pack continue to develop.
From the public library. 342 pages.
15hailelib
IV. Next in Line #1
2. The Kalahari Typing School for Men by Alexander McCall Smith -- Finished Jan 3, 2011
This is the fourth book in the series featuring Mma Precious Ramotswe and her detective agency. Mma Makutsi is featured here and many characters from the previous stories are also on hand. I enjoyed my visit with Mma Ramotswe and I'm definitely looking forward to the next book. Recommended, but these stories should probably be read in order.
From the public library. 189 pages.
2. The Kalahari Typing School for Men by Alexander McCall Smith -- Finished Jan 3, 2011
This is the fourth book in the series featuring Mma Precious Ramotswe and her detective agency. Mma Makutsi is featured here and many characters from the previous stories are also on hand. I enjoyed my visit with Mma Ramotswe and I'm definitely looking forward to the next book. Recommended, but these stories should probably be read in order.
From the public library. 189 pages.
16hailelib
I. Young at Heart #1
3. Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder -- Finished January 4, 2011
Although this book is a Young Adult novel it is at the upper end as for as ages I would recommend it to, i.e., more 9th grade than 6th. However, I enjoyed it and will definitely look for others in the series.
When Yelena is given the choice of execution or becoming the next food taster for the ruling Commander of Ixia she chooses the chance of life. Much of the book revolves around her training in detecting poisons and in learning self-defense and we also have occasional glimpses into her past, explaining why she was condemned to die. In addition, Yelena is developing magical powers which are strictly outlawed in Ixia and which will cause major problems if not properly controlled.
Recommended.
From the public library. 401 pages.
3. Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder -- Finished January 4, 2011
Although this book is a Young Adult novel it is at the upper end as for as ages I would recommend it to, i.e., more 9th grade than 6th. However, I enjoyed it and will definitely look for others in the series.
When Yelena is given the choice of execution or becoming the next food taster for the ruling Commander of Ixia she chooses the chance of life. Much of the book revolves around her training in detecting poisons and in learning self-defense and we also have occasional glimpses into her past, explaining why she was condemned to die. In addition, Yelena is developing magical powers which are strictly outlawed in Ixia and which will cause major problems if not properly controlled.
Recommended.
From the public library. 401 pages.
17hailelib
III. Favorite Authors
4. Maybe This Time by Jennifer Crusie -- Finished Jan 5, 2011
Having never read a book I didn't like by Jennifer Crusie, I grabbed this one as soon as I noticed it in the library. While not quite what I've come to expect from this author, it was a fun read even with the somewhat malevolent ghosts.
Andie, our heroine is persuaded to do her ex-husband one last favor and goes to take care of his wards who are driving away every nanny he hires. On arrival Andie is appalled at what she finds and plunges in to 'fix' everything. With an assortment of offbeat characters, ghosts, and a really incompetent housekeeper, she has her hands full. As if that wasn't enough, does she really want to marry her new fiance or is she too hung up on her ex?
Recommended for those who like Crusie and a good ghost story.
From the Public Library. 340 pages.
4. Maybe This Time by Jennifer Crusie -- Finished Jan 5, 2011
Having never read a book I didn't like by Jennifer Crusie, I grabbed this one as soon as I noticed it in the library. While not quite what I've come to expect from this author, it was a fun read even with the somewhat malevolent ghosts.
Andie, our heroine is persuaded to do her ex-husband one last favor and goes to take care of his wards who are driving away every nanny he hires. On arrival Andie is appalled at what she finds and plunges in to 'fix' everything. With an assortment of offbeat characters, ghosts, and a really incompetent housekeeper, she has her hands full. As if that wasn't enough, does she really want to marry her new fiance or is she too hung up on her ex?
Recommended for those who like Crusie and a good ghost story.
From the Public Library. 340 pages.
18hailelib
III. Favorite Authors
5. In Too Deep by Jayne Ann Krentz --Finished Jan. 6, 2011
The next contemporary story in the Arcane Society series, this is Fallon's story. Here we learn why he operates the West Coast office of Jones & Jones out of the remote town of Scargill Cove and we meet a number of the cove's inhabitants. With the arrival of the very talented, but mysterious, Isabella and her insistence on working for J&J, Fallon finds his life is suddenly even more interesting than usual.
About average for this series and the first in The Looking Glass Trilogy, I would recommend In Too Deep for those who are already fans of Arcane.
From the public library. 324 pages plus excerpt from the next book in the trilogy.
5. In Too Deep by Jayne Ann Krentz --Finished Jan. 6, 2011
The next contemporary story in the Arcane Society series, this is Fallon's story. Here we learn why he operates the West Coast office of Jones & Jones out of the remote town of Scargill Cove and we meet a number of the cove's inhabitants. With the arrival of the very talented, but mysterious, Isabella and her insistence on working for J&J, Fallon finds his life is suddenly even more interesting than usual.
About average for this series and the first in The Looking Glass Trilogy, I would recommend In Too Deep for those who are already fans of Arcane.
From the public library. 324 pages plus excerpt from the next book in the trilogy.
19hailelib
II. Mystery and Suspense #1
6. Shadows in Bronze by Lindsey Davis -- Finished Jan. 17, 2011
The second book about Marcus Didius Falco and beginning shortly after the ending of Silver Pigs. I enjoyed this story, especially the parts that take place in Pompeii and Herculaneum, but I agree with those who feel the series should be read in order. I will be reading more about Falco later in the year.
From the public library. 339 pages plus cast of characters and maps.
6. Shadows in Bronze by Lindsey Davis -- Finished Jan. 17, 2011
The second book about Marcus Didius Falco and beginning shortly after the ending of Silver Pigs. I enjoyed this story, especially the parts that take place in Pompeii and Herculaneum, but I agree with those who feel the series should be read in order. I will be reading more about Falco later in the year.
From the public library. 339 pages plus cast of characters and maps.
20hailelib
Only one book finished in the past week but I did do some other reading.
Another chunk of Voyage of the Beagle since I do want to finish it (last book in the 1010 challenge).
Some background for the Thucydides group read.
Began Creative Mythology by Campbell and I Chronicles for the KJV read for this year.
Shadows in Bronze was by way of a break and because it's due back at the library.
Another chunk of Voyage of the Beagle since I do want to finish it (last book in the 1010 challenge).
Some background for the Thucydides group read.
Began Creative Mythology by Campbell and I Chronicles for the KJV read for this year.
Shadows in Bronze was by way of a break and because it's due back at the library.
21hailelib
Young at Heart #2
7. The Reckoning by Kelly Armstrong -- Finished Jan. 21,2011
The third in Armstrong's Darkest Powers trilogy featuring Chloe Saunders and her friends. I strongly recommend reading these books in order as they make up a connected story and are not really stand alone books.
The Reckoning finds the four young supernaturals still hiding from the Edison Group and still unsure of who they can trust. The end leaves plenty of room for more adventures for these teens but there is a certain amount of resolution for their immediate problems. While this is definitely a YA fantasy I would place it at the upper end of the range for young adult books.
From the public library. 391 pages.
7. The Reckoning by Kelly Armstrong -- Finished Jan. 21,2011
The third in Armstrong's Darkest Powers trilogy featuring Chloe Saunders and her friends. I strongly recommend reading these books in order as they make up a connected story and are not really stand alone books.
The Reckoning finds the four young supernaturals still hiding from the Edison Group and still unsure of who they can trust. The end leaves plenty of room for more adventures for these teens but there is a certain amount of resolution for their immediate problems. While this is definitely a YA fantasy I would place it at the upper end of the range for young adult books.
From the public library. 391 pages.
22hailelib
Mystery and Suspense #2
8. Kilt Dead by Kaitlyn Dunnett -- finished Jan. 26, 2011
A light but interesting 'cozy' mystery. After years away, Liss returns to her hometown, in part to do her aunt a favor as well as to recuperate from an injury that destroyed her dance career. Almost immediately there is a death and if she doesn't want to be labeled the murderer Liss must find out who did it. This is a good introduction to a new series which I will probably continue reading. Recommended for fans of cozies.
From the public library. 282 pages.
8. Kilt Dead by Kaitlyn Dunnett -- finished Jan. 26, 2011
A light but interesting 'cozy' mystery. After years away, Liss returns to her hometown, in part to do her aunt a favor as well as to recuperate from an injury that destroyed her dance career. Almost immediately there is a death and if she doesn't want to be labeled the murderer Liss must find out who did it. This is a good introduction to a new series which I will probably continue reading. Recommended for fans of cozies.
From the public library. 282 pages.
23hailelib
Rereads:
#1 The Key Trilogy by Nora Roberts -- Finished Jan 29
Key of Light, Key of Knowledge, and Key of Valor by Roberts are really one story spread over three volumes and should be read in order. If read one after the other (as I just did) there is also some noticeable repetition. If you like romance with dollops of magic and myth this is a pleasant way to spend some time, especially if you are a Roberts fan.
From my own shelves. 334 + 327 + 332 pages
#1 The Key Trilogy by Nora Roberts -- Finished Jan 29
Key of Light, Key of Knowledge, and Key of Valor by Roberts are really one story spread over three volumes and should be read in order. If read one after the other (as I just did) there is also some noticeable repetition. If you like romance with dollops of magic and myth this is a pleasant way to spend some time, especially if you are a Roberts fan.
From my own shelves. 334 + 327 + 332 pages
24hailelib
Young at Heart #3
9. The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan -- Finished Jan.30, 2011
The first book in a new series with some new heroes plus some of our old friends from Camp Half-Blood. Here we meet Jason, Piper, and Leo and follow their first quest together. The book opens on a bus with Jason waking up and realizing that he doesn't know who he is and doesn't recognize Piper and Leo (who are apparently his best and only friends). Jason's day rapidly goes downhill from there... Another fun book from Riordan.
From the public library. 551 pages.
I've also continued with my other reading (see message 20) and made some progress there.
9. The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan -- Finished Jan.30, 2011
The first book in a new series with some new heroes plus some of our old friends from Camp Half-Blood. Here we meet Jason, Piper, and Leo and follow their first quest together. The book opens on a bus with Jason waking up and realizing that he doesn't know who he is and doesn't recognize Piper and Leo (who are apparently his best and only friends). Jason's day rapidly goes downhill from there... Another fun book from Riordan.
From the public library. 551 pages.
I've also continued with my other reading (see message 20) and made some progress there.
25hailelib
I've started a bunch of books but the only one finished recently was Sailing, a little book by Henry Beard and Roy McKie. More later.
26hailelib
Short and Sweet #1
10. sailing, a lubber's dictionary by Henry Beard & Roy McKie - finished Feb.5, 2011
A book to read when you only have a few minutes as it is an illustrated dictionary of humorous definitions. Like all of Beard's little books it is hilarious though I liked Poetry for Cats more. However a little knowledge of sailing terminology will make this book more enjoyable.
From my own shelves. (Mitchell gave to Jim for Xmas) about 300 pages. 791.1
10. sailing, a lubber's dictionary by Henry Beard & Roy McKie - finished Feb.5, 2011
A book to read when you only have a few minutes as it is an illustrated dictionary of humorous definitions. Like all of Beard's little books it is hilarious though I liked Poetry for Cats more. However a little knowledge of sailing terminology will make this book more enjoyable.
From my own shelves. (Mitchell gave to Jim for Xmas) about 300 pages. 791.1
27hailelib
Young at Heart #4
11. Castle in the Air by Diana Wynne Jones - finished February 8, 2011
A YA fantasy detailing the adventures of Abullah, a young merchant in Zanzib, who buys a magic carpet and proceeds to fall in love with a princess, have adventures involving a genie in a bottle and eventually meeting Sophie, Howl, and even Calcifer. The book kept me absorbed from start to finish and is recommended for fans of YA fantasy.
From the public library 199 pages
Science and Technology #1
12. Soul Made Flesh by Carl Zimmer - Finished February 9, 2011.
An interesting book on early research into the brain focusing primarily on the work of Thomas Willis and his 'circle'. While it took me a couple of chapters to really get involved with this book it turned out to be interesting not just for the work on the brain but for the information about the practice of medicine in the 1600's and how our ideas about the human soul have changed over time.
Recommended.
From the public library 296 pages plus notes,references 612.81
11. Castle in the Air by Diana Wynne Jones - finished February 8, 2011
A YA fantasy detailing the adventures of Abullah, a young merchant in Zanzib, who buys a magic carpet and proceeds to fall in love with a princess, have adventures involving a genie in a bottle and eventually meeting Sophie, Howl, and even Calcifer. The book kept me absorbed from start to finish and is recommended for fans of YA fantasy.
From the public library 199 pages
Science and Technology #1
12. Soul Made Flesh by Carl Zimmer - Finished February 9, 2011.
An interesting book on early research into the brain focusing primarily on the work of Thomas Willis and his 'circle'. While it took me a couple of chapters to really get involved with this book it turned out to be interesting not just for the work on the brain but for the information about the practice of medicine in the 1600's and how our ideas about the human soul have changed over time.
Recommended.
From the public library 296 pages plus notes,references 612.81
28hailelib
Anything Goes -- Fiction #1
13. Sunrise Alley by Catherine Asaro - Finished February 14
Asaro has written a book that takes place in the not too distant future where she explores an interesting idea: How should humans treat self-aware AI's? What about androids? What's the difference between a human with many artificial parts and an android? Is there a point when he is no longer human?
Here a researcher meets a being that she first sees as human but then discovers that he has an artificial brain into which the mind of a man has been uploaded. Soon they are on the run from all the people who want Tucker back. This worked as an exploration of what makes a being human but somehow the romance part of the story didn't seem to work for me.
Thus I am a bit ambivalent about recommending the book to others.
From the public library. 309 pages.
13. Sunrise Alley by Catherine Asaro - Finished February 14
Asaro has written a book that takes place in the not too distant future where she explores an interesting idea: How should humans treat self-aware AI's? What about androids? What's the difference between a human with many artificial parts and an android? Is there a point when he is no longer human?
Here a researcher meets a being that she first sees as human but then discovers that he has an artificial brain into which the mind of a man has been uploaded. Soon they are on the run from all the people who want Tucker back. This worked as an exploration of what makes a being human but somehow the romance part of the story didn't seem to work for me.
Thus I am a bit ambivalent about recommending the book to others.
From the public library. 309 pages.
29hailelib
Catching up a little!
Fantasy and Paranormal #2
14. Hunting Ground by Patricia Briggs - finished January 16
From my own shelves. 286 pages
Anything Goes -- Nonfiction #1
15. Eat This, Not That! by David Zinczenko - finished Feb 19, 2011
From the public library. 306 pages with the introduction. 613.2
Fantasy and Paranormal #2
14. Hunting Ground by Patricia Briggs - finished January 16
From my own shelves. 286 pages
Anything Goes -- Nonfiction #1
15. Eat This, Not That! by David Zinczenko - finished Feb 19, 2011
From the public library. 306 pages with the introduction. 613.2
30pammab
What did you think of Eat This, Not That? Is it worth buying instead of borrowing?
31hailelib
Haven't made comments yet but I'm glad I got it from the library. Some of the recommendations are very good but I disagree with some of them. Also, it covers fast food, restaurants, and really processed supermarket items, all of which we rarely eat. However the information on sodium content of various foods was enlightening. What I mainly learned was to keep reading labels and to keep eating my own cooking!
I would borrow a copy first and see if it would be useful enough to you to actually buy.
I would borrow a copy first and see if it would be useful enough to you to actually buy.
32hailelib
Mystery and Suspense #3 and #4 and #5
16. The Bookman's Wake by John Dunning -- finished mid-February
From my own shelves. 426 pages.
17. Queen of the Night by J. A. Jance -- finished March 1, 2011
From the public library. 368 pages.
18. 8238565::The Crossing Places by Elly Griffiths -- March 4, 2011
From the public library. 295 pages.
16. The Bookman's Wake by John Dunning -- finished mid-February
From my own shelves. 426 pages.
17. Queen of the Night by J. A. Jance -- finished March 1, 2011
From the public library. 368 pages.
18. 8238565::The Crossing Places by Elly Griffiths -- March 4, 2011
From the public library. 295 pages.
33hailelib
Favorite authors #3 and #4
19. The Search by Nora Roberts -- Finished Feb 25, 2011
From the public library. 496 pages.
20. The Jackal's Head by Elizabeth Peters -- finished February 28, 2011
From the public library. 258 pages.
19. The Search by Nora Roberts -- Finished Feb 25, 2011
From the public library. 496 pages.
20. The Jackal's Head by Elizabeth Peters -- finished February 28, 2011
From the public library. 258 pages.
34hailelib
Fantasy and Paranormal #3
21. Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison -- finished Feb. 26, 2011
From the Public Library. 353 pages
21. Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison -- finished Feb. 26, 2011
From the Public Library. 353 pages
35hailelib
Favorite Authors #5
22. Treachery in Death by J.D. Robb -- finished March 8, 2011
From the public library. 384 pages.
22. Treachery in Death by J.D. Robb -- finished March 8, 2011
From the public library. 384 pages.
36hailelib
Fantasy and Paranormal #4
23. No Mercy by Sherrilyn Kenyon -- finished March 10, 2011
A Dark-Hunter novel.
From the public library. 343 pages.
23. No Mercy by Sherrilyn Kenyon -- finished March 10, 2011
A Dark-Hunter novel.
From the public library. 343 pages.
37hailelib
Next in Line #2 and #3
24. The Full Cupboard of Life by Alexander McCall Smith -- finished March 12, 2011
Read this while watching a DVD of the TV series. A good entry in the series.
From my own shelves. 196 pages.
25. If Books Could Kill by Kate Carlisle -- finished March 14, 2011
Second in the series. I liked the first one a little better but I would probably read more of Brooklyn's adventures.
From the Public Library. 406 pages.
24. The Full Cupboard of Life by Alexander McCall Smith -- finished March 12, 2011
Read this while watching a DVD of the TV series. A good entry in the series.
From my own shelves. 196 pages.
25. If Books Could Kill by Kate Carlisle -- finished March 14, 2011
Second in the series. I liked the first one a little better but I would probably read more of Brooklyn's adventures.
From the Public Library. 406 pages.
38hailelib
Time to catch up; may come back with comments.
Next in Line #4 & #5 & #6 & #7
26. In the Company of Cheerful Ladies by Alexander McCall Smith
From my own shelves. 231 pages
27. Heart Fate by Robin D, Owens
New purchase. 386 pages
28. Heart Charge by Robin D. Owens
New purchase. 368 pages
29. Heart Journey by Robin D. Owens
New purchase. 354 pages
History, Biography/Memoir #2
30. !959: The Year Everything Changed by Fred Kaplan - Finished April 3, 2011
From the public library. 244 pages with an additional 58 pages of notes. 909.825
Next in Line #4 & #5 & #6 & #7
26. In the Company of Cheerful Ladies by Alexander McCall Smith
From my own shelves. 231 pages
27. Heart Fate by Robin D, Owens
New purchase. 386 pages
28. Heart Charge by Robin D. Owens
New purchase. 368 pages
29. Heart Journey by Robin D. Owens
New purchase. 354 pages
History, Biography/Memoir #2
30. !959: The Year Everything Changed by Fred Kaplan - Finished April 3, 2011
From the public library. 244 pages with an additional 58 pages of notes. 909.825
39hailelib
more finished -
Anything Goes - Nonfiction #2
31. The Paleo Diet by Loren Cordain -- finished April 4, 2011
From the public library. Text is 210 pages. includes suggested meal plans, recipes. 613.282
Reread -
2. Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone - finshed in March and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J. K. Rowling -- finished April 4, 2011
Both from the CMS library. H.P. 2 has 341 pages.
Anything Goes - Nonfiction #2
31. The Paleo Diet by Loren Cordain -- finished April 4, 2011
From the public library. Text is 210 pages. includes suggested meal plans, recipes. 613.282
Reread -
2. Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone - finshed in March and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J. K. Rowling -- finished April 4, 2011
Both from the CMS library. H.P. 2 has 341 pages.
40hailelib
Science and Technology -- #2
32. The Story of Stuff by Annie Leonard -- finished April 7,2011
From the public library. 252 pages text plus appendices,notes,etc. 306.4
Anything goes - Nonfiction- #3
33. Turning Points in Film History by Andrew J. Rausch -- finished April 8, 2011
From my own shelves. 230 pages plus intro and bibliography. 791
32. The Story of Stuff by Annie Leonard -- finished April 7,2011
From the public library. 252 pages text plus appendices,notes,etc. 306.4
Anything goes - Nonfiction- #3
33. Turning Points in Film History by Andrew J. Rausch -- finished April 8, 2011
From my own shelves. 230 pages plus intro and bibliography. 791
41hailelib
To date:
I. Young at Heart -- for children of any age but mostly YA (4/11)
II. Mystery and Suspense -- can include romantic suspense (5/11)
III. Favorite Authors -- any genre or even nonfiction (5/11)
IV. Next in Line -- I will try to read the 'next' book(s) in 7 or more series for a total of 11 books (7/11)
V. Fantasy and Paranormal - (4/11)
VI. Anything Goes -- Any fiction that doesn't fit neatly into one of my other fiction categories. (1/11)
VII. Spirit and Mind -- a.) from the KJV Bible: I Chronicles through at least Ezekiel - b.) Mythology, folklore, and legend c.)at least one each from philosophy and psychology/education.
VIII. Short and Sweet -- Essays, plays, poetry, short stories (1/11)
IX. Science and Technology -- may also include history of science, invention,etc. (2/11)
X. History, Biography/Memoir -- may also put in one or two biographical fiction as well as straight biography. (1/11)
XI. Anything Goes Nonfiction (3/11)
Also 3 rereads.
I've started a number of books and finishing those will be my focus for the next couple of weeks.
I. Young at Heart -- for children of any age but mostly YA (4/11)
II. Mystery and Suspense -- can include romantic suspense (5/11)
III. Favorite Authors -- any genre or even nonfiction (5/11)
IV. Next in Line -- I will try to read the 'next' book(s) in 7 or more series for a total of 11 books (7/11)
V. Fantasy and Paranormal - (4/11)
VI. Anything Goes -- Any fiction that doesn't fit neatly into one of my other fiction categories. (1/11)
VII. Spirit and Mind -- a.) from the KJV Bible: I Chronicles through at least Ezekiel - b.) Mythology, folklore, and legend c.)at least one each from philosophy and psychology/education.
VIII. Short and Sweet -- Essays, plays, poetry, short stories (1/11)
IX. Science and Technology -- may also include history of science, invention,etc. (2/11)
X. History, Biography/Memoir -- may also put in one or two biographical fiction as well as straight biography. (1/11)
XI. Anything Goes Nonfiction (3/11)
Also 3 rereads.
I've started a number of books and finishing those will be my focus for the next couple of weeks.
42hailelib
Reread:
4. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Does this really need to be described? This series makes good light reading for me when I need something that doesn't require a lot of thinking about. It is also interesting to see what was left out of the movies.
4. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Does this really need to be described? This series makes good light reading for me when I need something that doesn't require a lot of thinking about. It is also interesting to see what was left out of the movies.
44hailelib
I haven't been posting much lately but I have been reading some.
Books I've finished since the last time I added to my list:
34. Cro-Magnon : how the Ice Age gave birth to the first modern humans by Brian M. Fagan
35. Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld
36. Running scared by Lisa Jackson
37. Behemoth by Scott Westerfeld
38. House thinking : a room-by-room look at how we live by Winifred Gallagher
39. Breaking the rules by Suzanne Brockmann
40. Heart dance by Robin D. Owens
41. Trio for blunt instruments; a Nero Wolfe Threesome by Rex Stout
42. Alone by Lisa Gardner
43. The not so big house : a blueprint for the way we really live by Sarah Susanka
Rereads:
5. Harry Potter !V and V
6. Heart Mate by Robin D. Owens
7. Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones
Books I've finished since the last time I added to my list:
34. Cro-Magnon : how the Ice Age gave birth to the first modern humans by Brian M. Fagan
35. Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld
36. Running scared by Lisa Jackson
37. Behemoth by Scott Westerfeld
38. House thinking : a room-by-room look at how we live by Winifred Gallagher
39. Breaking the rules by Suzanne Brockmann
40. Heart dance by Robin D. Owens
41. Trio for blunt instruments; a Nero Wolfe Threesome by Rex Stout
42. Alone by Lisa Gardner
43. The not so big house : a blueprint for the way we really live by Sarah Susanka
Rereads:
5. Harry Potter !V and V
6. Heart Mate by Robin D. Owens
7. Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones
45hailelib
More catching up:
44. Love you more : a detective D.D. Warren novel by Lisa Gardner (2011) - finished June 6, 2011
45. Ambassadors from Earth : pioneering explorations with unmanned spacecraft by Jay Gallentine (2009) - finished June 7, 2011
46. The Blue Djinn of Babylon by Philip Kerr (2006) - finished June 8, 2011
44. Love you more : a detective D.D. Warren novel by Lisa Gardner (2011) - finished June 6, 2011
45. Ambassadors from Earth : pioneering explorations with unmanned spacecraft by Jay Gallentine (2009) - finished June 7, 2011
46. The Blue Djinn of Babylon by Philip Kerr (2006) - finished June 8, 2011
46hailelib
Reread:
8. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J. K. Rowling -- finished June 11, 2011
From the CMS library. 652 pages.
Next in Line #8
47. Changeless by Gail Carriger -- finished June 13, 2011
The further adventures of Alexia Tarabotti after her marriage to Lord Maccon. What's causing the humanization of the supernaturals in London? Can it be stopped?
The twist at the end leaves one with a cliff-hanger but luckily Book 3: Blameless is already available.
From the public library. 374 pages.
8. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J. K. Rowling -- finished June 11, 2011
From the CMS library. 652 pages.
Next in Line #8
47. Changeless by Gail Carriger -- finished June 13, 2011
The further adventures of Alexia Tarabotti after her marriage to Lord Maccon. What's causing the humanization of the supernaturals in London? Can it be stopped?
The twist at the end leaves one with a cliff-hanger but luckily Book 3: Blameless is already available.
From the public library. 374 pages.
47Bcteagirl
I am happy to see that someone else read House Thinking for the 11 in 11 challenge! How did you enjoy it?
48hailelib
> 47
Sorry my reply took so long but I haven't been here lately!
It has been long enough since I read House Thinking that I don't remember many of the specifics but I did find it to be a quick read that I was happy to spend some time with. It did lead me to pick up The Not So Big House and the two together reminded me of the importance of periodically taking a fresh look at my own house.
Sorry my reply took so long but I haven't been here lately!
It has been long enough since I read House Thinking that I don't remember many of the specifics but I did find it to be a quick read that I was happy to spend some time with. It did lead me to pick up The Not So Big House and the two together reminded me of the importance of periodically taking a fresh look at my own house.
49hailelib
More books finished in June
VII. Spirit and Mind #3
48. When they severed earth from sky : how the human mind shapes myth by E. J. W. Barber (2005)
From the public library.
V. Fantasy and Paranormal #7 & #8
49. Blameless by Gail Carriger (2010)
From the public library.
50. Pale demon by Kim Harrison (2011)
From the public library.
III. Favorite Authors #7
51. Quicksilver by Amanda Quick (2011)
From the public library.
VII. Spirit and Mind #3
48. When they severed earth from sky : how the human mind shapes myth by E. J. W. Barber (2005)
From the public library.
V. Fantasy and Paranormal #7 & #8
49. Blameless by Gail Carriger (2010)
From the public library.
50. Pale demon by Kim Harrison (2011)
From the public library.
III. Favorite Authors #7
51. Quicksilver by Amanda Quick (2011)
From the public library.
50hailelib
Books finished in July so far --
New to Me:
V. Fantasy and Paranormal #9 and #10
52. Twice as Hot by Gena Showalter -- early July
From the public library. 415 pages.
53. Chronicles of Chrestomanci : volume 1. Charmed life and the lives of Christopher Chant by Diana Wynne Jones (2001) -- early July
From the public library. 596 pages.
IV. Next in Line #9
54. The gates of sleep by Mercedes Lackey (2002) -- mid-July
From the public library. 389 pages.
I. Young at Heart #8
55. The gathering by Kelley Armstrong (2011) -- mid-July
From the public library. 359 pages.
III. Favorite Authors #8
56. Infamous by Suzanne Brockmann (2010) -- finished July 17, 2011
From my own shelves. 433 pages.
New to Me:
V. Fantasy and Paranormal #9 and #10
52. Twice as Hot by Gena Showalter -- early July
From the public library. 415 pages.
53. Chronicles of Chrestomanci : volume 1. Charmed life and the lives of Christopher Chant by Diana Wynne Jones (2001) -- early July
From the public library. 596 pages.
IV. Next in Line #9
54. The gates of sleep by Mercedes Lackey (2002) -- mid-July
From the public library. 389 pages.
I. Young at Heart #8
55. The gathering by Kelley Armstrong (2011) -- mid-July
From the public library. 359 pages.
III. Favorite Authors #8
56. Infamous by Suzanne Brockmann (2010) -- finished July 17, 2011
From my own shelves. 433 pages.
51hailelib
Rereads:
9. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J. K. Rowling -- early July
to refresh my memory...
From my own shelves. 759 pages.
Also from my own shelves by Mercedes Lackey:
10. The Fairy Godmother - 473 pages
11. The Fire Rose - 433 pages
12. The Serpent's Shadow - 388 pages
13. Phoenix and Ashes - 468 pages
14. The Wizard of London - 377 pages
Then:
15. A Secret Rage by Charlaine Harris - July 17
From my own shelves. 198 pages
9. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J. K. Rowling -- early July
to refresh my memory...
From my own shelves. 759 pages.
Also from my own shelves by Mercedes Lackey:
10. The Fairy Godmother - 473 pages
11. The Fire Rose - 433 pages
12. The Serpent's Shadow - 388 pages
13. Phoenix and Ashes - 468 pages
14. The Wizard of London - 377 pages
Then:
15. A Secret Rage by Charlaine Harris - July 17
From my own shelves. 198 pages
52hailelib
Another reread:
16. Midnight Crystal by Jayne Castle -- finished July 18
abandoned and not counted:
!. A Certain Wolfish Charm by Lydia Dare
After about a 100 pages I decided not to read any more of this romance. It isn't quite what I expected from the back cover description and combines some of the most irritating features of a not very good Regency era romance with some of the most irritating faults of a bad novel featuring werewolves. I put it in my Don't Bother collection as a reminder not to try again.
From the public library.
16. Midnight Crystal by Jayne Castle -- finished July 18
abandoned and not counted:
!. A Certain Wolfish Charm by Lydia Dare
After about a 100 pages I decided not to read any more of this romance. It isn't quite what I expected from the back cover description and combines some of the most irritating features of a not very good Regency era romance with some of the most irritating faults of a bad novel featuring werewolves. I put it in my Don't Bother collection as a reminder not to try again.
From the public library.
53hailelib
Finished since my last post:
X. History, Biography/Memoir
57. Greek fire, poison arrows, and scorpion bombs : biological and chemical warfare in the ancient world by Adrienne Mayor (2003)
Very interesting book with new to me info.
From the public library.
IV. Next in Line
58. The good husband of Zebra Drive by Alexander McCall Smith (2007)
From the public library.
XI. Anything Goes -- Nonfiction
59. The not so big life : making room for what really matters by Sarah Susanka (2007)
From the public library.
VI. Anything Goes
60. Maisie Dobbs : a novel by Jacqueline Winspear (2004)
From the public library.
III. Favorite Authors
61. Heart search by Robin D. Owens
From my own shelves.
III. Favorite Authors
62. Unnatural issue by Mercedes Lackey (2011)
From my own shelves.
V. Fantasy and Paranormal
63. Fortune's fool by Mercedes Lackey
From my own shelves.
IV. Next in Line
64. Spell bound by Kelley Armstrong (2011)
From my own shelves.
VI. Anything Goes -- Fiction
65. Heartless by Gail Carriger
From the public library.
VI. Anything Goes -- Fiction
66. The Miracle at Speedy Motors by Alexander McCall Smith
From my own shelves.
X. History, Biography/Memoir
57. Greek fire, poison arrows, and scorpion bombs : biological and chemical warfare in the ancient world by Adrienne Mayor (2003)
Very interesting book with new to me info.
From the public library.
IV. Next in Line
58. The good husband of Zebra Drive by Alexander McCall Smith (2007)
From the public library.
XI. Anything Goes -- Nonfiction
59. The not so big life : making room for what really matters by Sarah Susanka (2007)
From the public library.
VI. Anything Goes
60. Maisie Dobbs : a novel by Jacqueline Winspear (2004)
From the public library.
III. Favorite Authors
61. Heart search by Robin D. Owens
From my own shelves.
III. Favorite Authors
62. Unnatural issue by Mercedes Lackey (2011)
From my own shelves.
V. Fantasy and Paranormal
63. Fortune's fool by Mercedes Lackey
From my own shelves.
IV. Next in Line
64. Spell bound by Kelley Armstrong (2011)
From my own shelves.
VI. Anything Goes -- Fiction
65. Heartless by Gail Carriger
From the public library.
VI. Anything Goes -- Fiction
66. The Miracle at Speedy Motors by Alexander McCall Smith
From my own shelves.
54hailelib
To date:
I. Young at Heart -- for children of any age but mostly YA (8/11)
II. Mystery and Suspense -- can include romantic suspense (10/11)
III. Favorite Authors -- any genre (10/11)
IV. Next in Line -- I will try to read the 'next' book(s) in 5 or more series for a total of 11 books (11/11)
V. Fantasy and Paranormal - (11/11)
VI. Anything Goes -- Any fiction that doesn't fit neatly into one of my other fiction categories. (4/11)
VII. Spirit and Mind -- a.) from the KJV Bible: I Chronicles through at least Ezekiel - b.) Mythology, folklore, and legend c.)at least one each from philosophy and psychology/education. (1/11)
VIII. Short and Sweet -- Essays, plays, poetry, short stories (1/11)
IX. Science and Technology -- may also include history of science, invention,etc. (4/11)
X. History, Biography/Memoir -- may also put in one or two biographical fiction as well as straight biography. (1/11)
XI. Anything Goes Nonfiction (5/11)
Total 66/121 or 55%. This may be the year that I have to modify the challenge a couple of months before the end!
Also 16 rereads and 1 abandoned.
I've started a number of books and making progress on those will be my focus for the next couple of weeks.
I. Young at Heart -- for children of any age but mostly YA (8/11)
II. Mystery and Suspense -- can include romantic suspense (10/11)
III. Favorite Authors -- any genre (10/11)
IV. Next in Line -- I will try to read the 'next' book(s) in 5 or more series for a total of 11 books (11/11)
V. Fantasy and Paranormal - (11/11)
VI. Anything Goes -- Any fiction that doesn't fit neatly into one of my other fiction categories. (4/11)
VII. Spirit and Mind -- a.) from the KJV Bible: I Chronicles through at least Ezekiel - b.) Mythology, folklore, and legend c.)at least one each from philosophy and psychology/education. (1/11)
VIII. Short and Sweet -- Essays, plays, poetry, short stories (1/11)
IX. Science and Technology -- may also include history of science, invention,etc. (4/11)
X. History, Biography/Memoir -- may also put in one or two biographical fiction as well as straight biography. (1/11)
XI. Anything Goes Nonfiction (5/11)
Total 66/121 or 55%. This may be the year that I have to modify the challenge a couple of months before the end!
Also 16 rereads and 1 abandoned.
I've started a number of books and making progress on those will be my focus for the next couple of weeks.
55hailelib
X. History, Biography #4
67. The forgotten founding father : Noah Webster's obsession and the creation of an American culture by Joshua Kendall -- finished September 21, 2011
This book started out slow for me but by the end I was really enjoying Kendall's biography of Noah Webster. It turns out that Webster was much more involved in the early history of the United States after the revolution than I knew. He had extensive correspondence with other national figures such as Washington and Franklin and participated in his local and state governments for much of his life. Of course, one of Webster's greatest interests was in seeing that Americans had a common and standardized language. Hence the Speller that most Americans used to learn to read for decades and the dictionary whose revisions are still in print. Recommended for those interested in US history and for those interested in lexicography.
From the public library. 355 pages. 423.09
67. The forgotten founding father : Noah Webster's obsession and the creation of an American culture by Joshua Kendall -- finished September 21, 2011
This book started out slow for me but by the end I was really enjoying Kendall's biography of Noah Webster. It turns out that Webster was much more involved in the early history of the United States after the revolution than I knew. He had extensive correspondence with other national figures such as Washington and Franklin and participated in his local and state governments for much of his life. Of course, one of Webster's greatest interests was in seeing that Americans had a common and standardized language. Hence the Speller that most Americans used to learn to read for decades and the dictionary whose revisions are still in print. Recommended for those interested in US history and for those interested in lexicography.
From the public library. 355 pages. 423.09
56hailelib
III. Favorite Authors #11
68. New York to Dallas by J. D. Robb -- finished September 23, 2011
The next In Death novel. Eve's past once more becomes a major factor. Roarke and their relationship are also a big part of the story. Recommended for those who have been following the series. Others should start at the beginning with Naked in Death.
From the public library. 402 pages.
68. New York to Dallas by J. D. Robb -- finished September 23, 2011
The next In Death novel. Eve's past once more becomes a major factor. Roarke and their relationship are also a big part of the story. Recommended for those who have been following the series. Others should start at the beginning with Naked in Death.
From the public library. 402 pages.
57hailelib
X. History, Biography #5
69. Battle of wits : the complete story of codebreaking in World War II by Stephen Budiansky -- finished September 25, 2011
An interesting book, albeit a little technical in places, that details some World War II history that I was largely unaware of. In fact, the narrative pointed out to me that I know very little of the month to month progress of the war and even less about many of the people involved in the prosecution of the various phases. Recommended for those interested in WWII and particularly in cryptography.
From the public library. 337 pages plus appendices and notes. 940.548
69. Battle of wits : the complete story of codebreaking in World War II by Stephen Budiansky -- finished September 25, 2011
An interesting book, albeit a little technical in places, that details some World War II history that I was largely unaware of. In fact, the narrative pointed out to me that I know very little of the month to month progress of the war and even less about many of the people involved in the prosecution of the various phases. Recommended for those interested in WWII and particularly in cryptography.
From the public library. 337 pages plus appendices and notes. 940.548
58hailelib
VI. Anything Goes -- Fiction # 5
70. Dragongirl by Todd McCaffrey -- finished September 29, 2011
Another entry in the series about the Dragon riders of Pern, this one featuring Fiona as she has to become the Weyrwoman of Telgar following the tragic death of the Weyr's previous leaders during Third Pass. Also another story that is mostly written by Todd rather than Anne McCaffrey. I liked it well enough to continue reading the one's that are new to me when I come across them.
From the public library. 480 pages.
70. Dragongirl by Todd McCaffrey -- finished September 29, 2011
Another entry in the series about the Dragon riders of Pern, this one featuring Fiona as she has to become the Weyrwoman of Telgar following the tragic death of the Weyr's previous leaders during Third Pass. Also another story that is mostly written by Todd rather than Anne McCaffrey. I liked it well enough to continue reading the one's that are new to me when I come across them.
From the public library. 480 pages.
59hailelib
IX. Science and Technology
71. The 10,000 Year Explosion by Gregory Cochran and Henry Harpending -- finished September 28, 2011
From the public library. 231 pages + notes, etc. 599.93
71. The 10,000 Year Explosion by Gregory Cochran and Henry Harpending -- finished September 28, 2011
From the public library. 231 pages + notes, etc. 599.93
60hailelib
VI. Anything Goes - Fiction #6 and #7
72. Dragon's fire by Anne McCaffrey and Todd McCaffrey -- finished Oct 3, 2011
Another episode of life on Pern set in the years leading up to the Third Pass. OK but mainly for fans of Pern. Those new to the series should start with Anne's early books about Pern.
From the public library.
73. Corduroy Mansions by Alexander McCall Smith -- finished Oct 7, 2011
A fun and interesting book from McCall Smith with an ensemble of characters who either live in Corduroy Mansions or are connected to someone who does. It chronicles their everyday lives, especially that of William and his new dog, Freddie de la Hay. Set in contemporary London.
I may read more about these characters if Corduroy Mansions becomes a series but I still prefer the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency novels to his other books.
From the public library. 351 pages.
72. Dragon's fire by Anne McCaffrey and Todd McCaffrey -- finished Oct 3, 2011
Another episode of life on Pern set in the years leading up to the Third Pass. OK but mainly for fans of Pern. Those new to the series should start with Anne's early books about Pern.
From the public library.
73. Corduroy Mansions by Alexander McCall Smith -- finished Oct 7, 2011
A fun and interesting book from McCall Smith with an ensemble of characters who either live in Corduroy Mansions or are connected to someone who does. It chronicles their everyday lives, especially that of William and his new dog, Freddie de la Hay. Set in contemporary London.
I may read more about these characters if Corduroy Mansions becomes a series but I still prefer the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency novels to his other books.
From the public library. 351 pages.
61hailelib
VI. Anything Goes #6
74. The Gun Seller by Hugh Laurie -- finished October 8, 2011
I read this more as a curiosity after enjoying the music album Let Them Talk (where Laurie sings and plays piano) than because I expected to like Laurie's writing but I really enjoyed the book. The first half, in particular, is quite humorous even though the basic story deals with a serious subject. It is something of a spoof of spy/thriller/terrorist novels and a fairly quick read. However, I do agree with those reviewers who say that Laurie's writing may not be for everyone.
Aside: My husband also enjoyed The Gun Seller and loved the humor.
From the public library. 337 pages.
74. The Gun Seller by Hugh Laurie -- finished October 8, 2011
I read this more as a curiosity after enjoying the music album Let Them Talk (where Laurie sings and plays piano) than because I expected to like Laurie's writing but I really enjoyed the book. The first half, in particular, is quite humorous even though the basic story deals with a serious subject. It is something of a spoof of spy/thriller/terrorist novels and a fairly quick read. However, I do agree with those reviewers who say that Laurie's writing may not be for everyone.
Aside: My husband also enjoyed The Gun Seller and loved the humor.
From the public library. 337 pages.
62AHS-Wolfy
I'm surprised that The Gun Seller has not been repackaged recently. I'd have thought the publishers would jump at the chance now that Hugh Laurie is a big US TV star. I thought about picking this one up myself a couple of years ago when I had a Stephen Fry category but ended up without a space for it so never made it and haven't bothered since. Maybe I'll have to find a place for it now.
63hailelib
There is another book by Laurie, The Paper Soldier, but WorldCat only shows it to me as being in English libraries and Amazon.com thinks it's generally unavailable. Maybe they didn't sell very well the first time around.
64AHS-Wolfy
Never knew about that one. I did find this on an unofficial Hugh Laurie site:
The Paper Soldier has been given several release dates. The newest was Sept 2009. I wouldn't expect release until after Hugh is done with House.
and a quote from the man himself:
My second novel will be coming out two years ago - Hugh Laurie on when his next novel, Paper Soldier, will be published.
The Paper Soldier has been given several release dates. The newest was Sept 2009. I wouldn't expect release until after Hugh is done with House.
and a quote from the man himself:
My second novel will be coming out two years ago - Hugh Laurie on when his next novel, Paper Soldier, will be published.
65hailelib
IX. Science and Technology #6
75. Bad science : quacks, hacks, and big pharma flacks by Ben Goldacre -- finished Oct 13,2011
An interesting and quick read . Goldacre tells us how to recognize dubious claims and bad reporting in articles about medical research and health gurus. He writes a column on bad science and has a blog as well; much of the material in the book has apparently come from those. There is also a large list of the sources he used in researching the various issues discussed. Goldacre is a practicing M.D. (His day job.)
From the public library. 260 pages + notes and suggested reading. 500
75. Bad science : quacks, hacks, and big pharma flacks by Ben Goldacre -- finished Oct 13,2011
An interesting and quick read . Goldacre tells us how to recognize dubious claims and bad reporting in articles about medical research and health gurus. He writes a column on bad science and has a blog as well; much of the material in the book has apparently come from those. There is also a large list of the sources he used in researching the various issues discussed. Goldacre is a practicing M.D. (His day job.)
From the public library. 260 pages + notes and suggested reading. 500
66hailelib
IX. Science and Technology #7
76. Science Secrets: the Truth about Darwin's Finches, Einstein's Wife, and other Myths by Alberto A. Martinez -- finished October 18, 2011
This is a book about science, its history, and how myths have grown up around around various discoveries and the events surrounding them, from Pythagoras to Einstein. Not only the genesis of his specific examples are explained but Martinez gives us insight into how the history of science should be (and seldom is) investigated. He also tells us a little about how modern myths grow and why they readily become accepted.
Recommended for anyone with an interest in the history of science.
From the public library. 261 pages + extensive notes, references. 500
76. Science Secrets: the Truth about Darwin's Finches, Einstein's Wife, and other Myths by Alberto A. Martinez -- finished October 18, 2011
This is a book about science, its history, and how myths have grown up around around various discoveries and the events surrounding them, from Pythagoras to Einstein. Not only the genesis of his specific examples are explained but Martinez gives us insight into how the history of science should be (and seldom is) investigated. He also tells us a little about how modern myths grow and why they readily become accepted.
Recommended for anyone with an interest in the history of science.
From the public library. 261 pages + extensive notes, references. 500
67hailelib
VI. Anything Goes --Fiction
77. Bleak House by Charles Dickens --finished October, 21,2011
I had intended to read this as part of the group read and did start it then but I kept putting it down to read other books that caught my eye. After a few weeks I would pick it up and read a few more chapters but there was always another book calling to me. Finally decided that I should finish it and give it back to the library (two times checked out and numerous renewals later!).
To my surprise the last quarter of the book turned out to be a fast read. Here Dickens begins to weave all the threads that he has started together and bring all the stories to an end, some happy and others not at all happy, with very few loose ends.
While there are signs of Mr. Dickens being paid by the word in his lengthy descriptions, these long passages were often interesting and were fairly typical of the expected prose of his period. The abridged version I read decades ago certainly moved faster but this complete one was ultimately quite satisfactory if one has the patience to keep on reading.
From the public library. 830 pages plus introduction by John Cournos
77. Bleak House by Charles Dickens --finished October, 21,2011
I had intended to read this as part of the group read and did start it then but I kept putting it down to read other books that caught my eye. After a few weeks I would pick it up and read a few more chapters but there was always another book calling to me. Finally decided that I should finish it and give it back to the library (two times checked out and numerous renewals later!).
To my surprise the last quarter of the book turned out to be a fast read. Here Dickens begins to weave all the threads that he has started together and bring all the stories to an end, some happy and others not at all happy, with very few loose ends.
While there are signs of Mr. Dickens being paid by the word in his lengthy descriptions, these long passages were often interesting and were fairly typical of the expected prose of his period. The abridged version I read decades ago certainly moved faster but this complete one was ultimately quite satisfactory if one has the patience to keep on reading.
From the public library. 830 pages plus introduction by John Cournos
68lkernagh
Bleak House is another one of those books I keep dodging for the sole reason of its size (number of pages). After leaving a used bookstore this morning without the copy of A Suitable Boy that I had picked up - I think that one clocks in at over 1000 pages - I am probably missing out on some great reads.
Good review of Bleak House.
Good review of Bleak House.
69christina_reads
Bleak House was a pleasant surprise for me! The 2005 miniseries with Gillian Anderson as Lady Dedlock is very good, too.
70hailelib
I may try another Dickens novel next year. It partly depends a bit on how many other really long books beckon!
71hailelib
IX. Science and Technology #8
78. The Voyage of the Beagle by Charles Darwin -- finished October 23, 2011 ... The Harvard Classics Edition with a preface by Darwin to the second edition.
This book has long been considered a classic in the history of science. Darwin says in his preface that here he somewhat condensed and corrected some parts and added to others to "render the volume more fitted for popular reading" and has dedicated this volume to Charles Lyell, the author of Principles of Geology.
The Beagle set sail from Davenport on Dec. 27, 1831 and Darwin disembarked at Falmouth on Oct, 2, 1836 after a voyage of nearly five years. While much of the time was taken up in sailing from one place to another, in nearly every port of call he left the Beagle to stay ashore while the ship did its coastal surveying and mapping (the principal purpose of this expedition). There he observed the flora and fauna as well as the geological formations both near the shore, and, when time permitted, the interior, collecting numerous specimens and discovering many new species and varieties of plants and animals. On occasion he traveled overland and met the ship at another settlement farther along the coast. The journal also contains many observations of the inhabitants at each locale with Darwin being most impressed by the generous hospitality with which he was met almost everywhere.
I generally enjoyed the book although it was heavy going in places because of the extensive use of biological terms which I am largely unfamiliar with. The sections on geology were a bit easier and the descriptions of the people he met were very interesting. However, one must remember that Darwin was a product of English society of the early 1800's and shared many of the attitudes of that society. Those interested in the history of science, particularly the biological sciences, should find it of interest.
This book took a long time to read as I tended to read a section or two and then read other things before returning to Darwin's narrative. Eventually, it was buried in a stack of unfinished books which I am now working my way through. Although "Voyage" was initially meant to be my last 2010 Challenge book about half was read this year and I am counting it here.
From my own shelves. 509 pages including introduction and preface. 508.8
78. The Voyage of the Beagle by Charles Darwin -- finished October 23, 2011 ... The Harvard Classics Edition with a preface by Darwin to the second edition.
This book has long been considered a classic in the history of science. Darwin says in his preface that here he somewhat condensed and corrected some parts and added to others to "render the volume more fitted for popular reading" and has dedicated this volume to Charles Lyell, the author of Principles of Geology.
The Beagle set sail from Davenport on Dec. 27, 1831 and Darwin disembarked at Falmouth on Oct, 2, 1836 after a voyage of nearly five years. While much of the time was taken up in sailing from one place to another, in nearly every port of call he left the Beagle to stay ashore while the ship did its coastal surveying and mapping (the principal purpose of this expedition). There he observed the flora and fauna as well as the geological formations both near the shore, and, when time permitted, the interior, collecting numerous specimens and discovering many new species and varieties of plants and animals. On occasion he traveled overland and met the ship at another settlement farther along the coast. The journal also contains many observations of the inhabitants at each locale with Darwin being most impressed by the generous hospitality with which he was met almost everywhere.
I generally enjoyed the book although it was heavy going in places because of the extensive use of biological terms which I am largely unfamiliar with. The sections on geology were a bit easier and the descriptions of the people he met were very interesting. However, one must remember that Darwin was a product of English society of the early 1800's and shared many of the attitudes of that society. Those interested in the history of science, particularly the biological sciences, should find it of interest.
This book took a long time to read as I tended to read a section or two and then read other things before returning to Darwin's narrative. Eventually, it was buried in a stack of unfinished books which I am now working my way through. Although "Voyage" was initially meant to be my last 2010 Challenge book about half was read this year and I am counting it here.
From my own shelves. 509 pages including introduction and preface. 508.8
72hailelib
I. Young at Heart #9
79. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins -- finished October 27, 2011
I had been meaning to read this for a long time and finally ordered it from the library.
Good enough that I requested the second book straight away. A fast read that is more toward the upper level of YA with a heroine who is 16 and who has been her family's breadwinner for some years. Set in a future North America, Katniss volunteers to take her little sister's place in the Games which take place every year. Each district must send two "tributes" between 12 and 18 and the contest is to the death, with the last one alive being proclaimed the winner.
About the first forty percent of the book is about the events leading up to the actual games with the rest of the book dealing with how Katniss manages to survive and how the Games have an unexpected ending. We are left with the feeling that many things are still unresolved. But that's why there are two more books!
From the public library. 374 pages.
79. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins -- finished October 27, 2011
I had been meaning to read this for a long time and finally ordered it from the library.
Good enough that I requested the second book straight away. A fast read that is more toward the upper level of YA with a heroine who is 16 and who has been her family's breadwinner for some years. Set in a future North America, Katniss volunteers to take her little sister's place in the Games which take place every year. Each district must send two "tributes" between 12 and 18 and the contest is to the death, with the last one alive being proclaimed the winner.
About the first forty percent of the book is about the events leading up to the actual games with the rest of the book dealing with how Katniss manages to survive and how the Games have an unexpected ending. We are left with the feeling that many things are still unresolved. But that's why there are two more books!
From the public library. 374 pages.
73hailelib
Rereads 17 & 18
Mercedes Lackey -- Phoenix and Ashes and Unnatural Issue
Read because as I was reading Spinning Straw into Gold: What Fairy Tales Reveal by Joan Gould I became very interested in Gould's discussion of Cinderella and wanted to look at Lackey's version again. Then I picked up the other one which is based on Donkeyskin...These retellings seem to go back to older versions like the ones collected by the Grimm brothers and are quite different from the Disney version as far as the chacacter of the heorine and the role of the "Prince".
Mercedes Lackey -- Phoenix and Ashes and Unnatural Issue
Read because as I was reading Spinning Straw into Gold: What Fairy Tales Reveal by Joan Gould I became very interested in Gould's discussion of Cinderella and wanted to look at Lackey's version again. Then I picked up the other one which is based on Donkeyskin...These retellings seem to go back to older versions like the ones collected by the Grimm brothers and are quite different from the Disney version as far as the chacacter of the heorine and the role of the "Prince".
74hailelib
Finished:
Young at Heart #10.
80. Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins -- Finished Nov 3, 2011
Definitely reading the third book.
From the public library. 389 pages
Mystery and Suspense #11.
81. Fatal Error by J. A. Jance finished Nov. 4, 2011
Another Ali Reynolds mystery/suspense with some returning characters. OK, but I like the Joanna Brady books better.
From the public library. 353 pages
Spirit and Mind #4
82. Spinning Straw into Gold by Joan Gould -- finished November 5, 2011
Interesting analysis of what fairy tales are really about. Also some discussion about how the Disney versions changed the stories and their meanings. Girls progress from children to nubile virgins to wives or lovers to mothers and eventually to old women (often represented by witches in these tales). One has the trinity of Maiden, Matron, and Crone.
From the public library. 338 pages + notes. 398.352
Young at Heart #10.
80. Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins -- Finished Nov 3, 2011
Definitely reading the third book.
From the public library. 389 pages
Mystery and Suspense #11.
81. Fatal Error by J. A. Jance finished Nov. 4, 2011
Another Ali Reynolds mystery/suspense with some returning characters. OK, but I like the Joanna Brady books better.
From the public library. 353 pages
Spirit and Mind #4
82. Spinning Straw into Gold by Joan Gould -- finished November 5, 2011
Interesting analysis of what fairy tales are really about. Also some discussion about how the Disney versions changed the stories and their meanings. Girls progress from children to nubile virgins to wives or lovers to mothers and eventually to old women (often represented by witches in these tales). One has the trinity of Maiden, Matron, and Crone.
From the public library. 338 pages + notes. 398.352
75hailelib
I. Young at heart #11
83. The Throne of Fire by Rick Riordan -- Finished Nov. 8, 2011
Well, Carter and Sadie manage to get through another adventure involving the Egyptian gods by the skin of their teeth and learn more about their abilities, but there is still the coming war with the forces of Chaos that has only been delayed. Not exactly a cliffhanger ending but at least one more book will be necessary to resolve the outstanding problems.
For those who are fans of Riordan's Percy Jackson series.
from the public library. 446 pages.
83. The Throne of Fire by Rick Riordan -- Finished Nov. 8, 2011
Well, Carter and Sadie manage to get through another adventure involving the Egyptian gods by the skin of their teeth and learn more about their abilities, but there is still the coming war with the forces of Chaos that has only been delayed. Not exactly a cliffhanger ending but at least one more book will be necessary to resolve the outstanding problems.
For those who are fans of Riordan's Percy Jackson series.
from the public library. 446 pages.
76hailelib
VI. Anything Goes #8.
84. Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins -- finished Nov 11, 2011
Good conclusion to the Hunger Games Trilogy. I do feel these books are for an audience that is somewhat older than that of many YA books.
From the public library. 388 pages
84. Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins -- finished Nov 11, 2011
Good conclusion to the Hunger Games Trilogy. I do feel these books are for an audience that is somewhat older than that of many YA books.
From the public library. 388 pages
77hailelib
X. History, Biography #6
85. Before Columbus: the Americas of 1491 by Charles C. Mann -- finished Nov. 20, 2011
Although written for middle school ages, this was a very interesting book about what life was like in the Americas before Europeans arrived. Using recent finds and the latest theories of paleontologists and archaeologists, Mann paints a very different picture from the one most North Americans learned in school. The peoples of the Americas were more advanced and "civilized" than they are often given credit for and built great public works and complex societies. Current thinking is that it was their lack of resistance to the various germs and viruses carried by European adventurers and explorers that led to the Indians' downfall. With a decimated population from the quickly spreading epidemics of diseases like smallpox and the lost of many of their wisest leaders, the various nations were unable to defeat those, such as Cortes and Pizarro, who came looking for glory and gold, much less the later waves of settlers looking for land. A nice introduction on the subject.
From the CMS library. 113 pages. 970.01
85. Before Columbus: the Americas of 1491 by Charles C. Mann -- finished Nov. 20, 2011
Although written for middle school ages, this was a very interesting book about what life was like in the Americas before Europeans arrived. Using recent finds and the latest theories of paleontologists and archaeologists, Mann paints a very different picture from the one most North Americans learned in school. The peoples of the Americas were more advanced and "civilized" than they are often given credit for and built great public works and complex societies. Current thinking is that it was their lack of resistance to the various germs and viruses carried by European adventurers and explorers that led to the Indians' downfall. With a decimated population from the quickly spreading epidemics of diseases like smallpox and the lost of many of their wisest leaders, the various nations were unable to defeat those, such as Cortes and Pizarro, who came looking for glory and gold, much less the later waves of settlers looking for land. A nice introduction on the subject.
From the CMS library. 113 pages. 970.01
78hailelib
X. History, Biography #7 and #8
86. The Bayeux tapestry by David M. Wilson (2004) - finished Nov. 20, 2011.
While some people see this book as art history I read it as history of Britain and Normandy. It is, however, largely made up of photos and interpretations of the various panels making up the tapestry. I spent a lot of time examining the plates and puzzling out rough meanings of the Latin inscriptions before reading Wilson's notes and translations. Also found his essays in the last part of the book to be quite informative. A nice, coffeetable-sized book.
From the public library. 746.3944 156 pages.
87. Six days in October : the stock market crash of 1929 by Karen Blumenthal (c.2002) - finished Nov. 22, 2011.
A very readable explanation of the events leading up to the market crash of 1929 and its aftermath written at a middle school/high school level. This book is a good introduction to the subject for anyone interested in the stock market and the early days of the Great Depression.
From the CMS library. 145 pages. 332.64
86. The Bayeux tapestry by David M. Wilson (2004) - finished Nov. 20, 2011.
While some people see this book as art history I read it as history of Britain and Normandy. It is, however, largely made up of photos and interpretations of the various panels making up the tapestry. I spent a lot of time examining the plates and puzzling out rough meanings of the Latin inscriptions before reading Wilson's notes and translations. Also found his essays in the last part of the book to be quite informative. A nice, coffeetable-sized book.
From the public library. 746.3944 156 pages.
87. Six days in October : the stock market crash of 1929 by Karen Blumenthal (c.2002) - finished Nov. 22, 2011.
A very readable explanation of the events leading up to the market crash of 1929 and its aftermath written at a middle school/high school level. This book is a good introduction to the subject for anyone interested in the stock market and the early days of the Great Depression.
From the CMS library. 145 pages. 332.64
79hailelib
Anything Goes - Fiction #9
88. Gideon's sword by Douglas J. Preston and Lincoln Child (2011) -- finished Nov. 27, 2011
Since other books by Preston and Child have been mentioned numerous times on LT as being pretty good, when I saw this on the new books shelves at my local library I decided to give it a try. Good enough that I might try another by them but not one that I am likely to reread.
Gideon spends most of his adult life pursuing vengeance against the man chiefly responsible for his father's death and undeserved disgrace. In the first part of the novel he achieves this only to find that he has been observed by a mysterious organization which then pressures him into undertaking a very dangerous mission for them. This mission then takes up the rest of the book.
From the public library. 352 pages.
88. Gideon's sword by Douglas J. Preston and Lincoln Child (2011) -- finished Nov. 27, 2011
Since other books by Preston and Child have been mentioned numerous times on LT as being pretty good, when I saw this on the new books shelves at my local library I decided to give it a try. Good enough that I might try another by them but not one that I am likely to reread.
Gideon spends most of his adult life pursuing vengeance against the man chiefly responsible for his father's death and undeserved disgrace. In the first part of the novel he achieves this only to find that he has been observed by a mysterious organization which then pressures him into undertaking a very dangerous mission for them. This mission then takes up the rest of the book.
From the public library. 352 pages.
80hailelib
VIII. Short and Sweet # 2
89. Welcome to the jungle by Jim Butcher (2008) -- Finished Nov 27, 2011
A graphic novel that serves as an introduction to the series of books about the wizard Harry Dresden generally known as the Dresden Files. While I don't think that this format for storytelling will become a favorite, the story was interesting and a short read. While there were more pages than I would normally put in this category the story was conveyed primarily through the pictures and it didn't take longer to read than a longish short story,play, or essay.
Recommended for fans of The Dresden Files and for fans of fantasy graphic novels.
From the public library. 160 pages but little text.
89. Welcome to the jungle by Jim Butcher (2008) -- Finished Nov 27, 2011
A graphic novel that serves as an introduction to the series of books about the wizard Harry Dresden generally known as the Dresden Files. While I don't think that this format for storytelling will become a favorite, the story was interesting and a short read. While there were more pages than I would normally put in this category the story was conveyed primarily through the pictures and it didn't take longer to read than a longish short story,play, or essay.
Recommended for fans of The Dresden Files and for fans of fantasy graphic novels.
From the public library. 160 pages but little text.
81hailelib
Recently finished three books:
VI. Anything Goes -- Fiction #10
90. Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan -- finished Dec. 9, 2011
The further adventures of Percy Jackson in which he has lost his memory, complements of Juno/Hera. Percy travels to the Roman camp with its 'city' of New Rome and is sent on a new quest with new friends. Riordan explores myth from the Roman point of view in this YA novel. I enjoyed the book, but it does end in a way meant to make one eager for the next installment.
From the CMS library. 513 pages
XI. Anything Goes -- Nonfiction #7
91. Not so big remodeling : tailoring your home for the way you really live by Sarah Susanka- finished Dec. 10, 2011
This is the book from Susanka that I really wanted to read. She shows how to take what you have and make it a better fit for your family. The changes illustrated in Not So Big Remodeling range from rearranging the already existing spaces to transforming the whole house. She also shows how small changes like a wall painted in a dramatic cover or widening a door can have a dramatic impact on how a room is perceived. Lots of before and after floor plans and photos.
Recommended.
From the public library. 323 pages. 643.7
X. History, Biography #9
92. Language Visible by David Sachs -- finished Dec. 11, 2011
An interesting book on the history of the alphabet. However it does show signs of its origin as 26 essays that appeared weekly as a newspaper column. Each essay is a short self-contained history of a letter of the alphabet with interesting sidebars interspersed through the book. When read one or two at a time they are fine but if read one after another the chapters become a bit repetitive. Still, a good introduction to the beginnings and the changes that have occurred in our alphabet.
From the public library. 376 pages. 411
VI. Anything Goes -- Fiction #10
90. Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan -- finished Dec. 9, 2011
The further adventures of Percy Jackson in which he has lost his memory, complements of Juno/Hera. Percy travels to the Roman camp with its 'city' of New Rome and is sent on a new quest with new friends. Riordan explores myth from the Roman point of view in this YA novel. I enjoyed the book, but it does end in a way meant to make one eager for the next installment.
From the CMS library. 513 pages
XI. Anything Goes -- Nonfiction #7
91. Not so big remodeling : tailoring your home for the way you really live by Sarah Susanka- finished Dec. 10, 2011
This is the book from Susanka that I really wanted to read. She shows how to take what you have and make it a better fit for your family. The changes illustrated in Not So Big Remodeling range from rearranging the already existing spaces to transforming the whole house. She also shows how small changes like a wall painted in a dramatic cover or widening a door can have a dramatic impact on how a room is perceived. Lots of before and after floor plans and photos.
Recommended.
From the public library. 323 pages. 643.7
X. History, Biography #9
92. Language Visible by David Sachs -- finished Dec. 11, 2011
An interesting book on the history of the alphabet. However it does show signs of its origin as 26 essays that appeared weekly as a newspaper column. Each essay is a short self-contained history of a letter of the alphabet with interesting sidebars interspersed through the book. When read one or two at a time they are fine but if read one after another the chapters become a bit repetitive. Still, a good introduction to the beginnings and the changes that have occurred in our alphabet.
From the public library. 376 pages. 411
82VictoriaPL
Thanks for your review of Not So Big Remodeling. Our library has a copy, so I've requested it.
83hailelib
VII. Spirit and Mind # 3
93. Being wrong : adventures in the margin of error by Kathryn Schulz -- finished December 16, 2011
Why we should embrace error and go beyond the idea that being wrong is always a bad thing. The author did keep keep my attention, especially in the last half of the book.
From the public library. 339 pages plus notes. 128.
93. Being wrong : adventures in the margin of error by Kathryn Schulz -- finished December 16, 2011
Why we should embrace error and go beyond the idea that being wrong is always a bad thing. The author did keep keep my attention, especially in the last half of the book.
From the public library. 339 pages plus notes. 128.
84hailelib
VictoriaPL, while not all of her ideas work for us, I do think that most people will find some worthwhile advice in the book and the many pictures are useful too. It's a good book for those in the "thinking about it" stage of fixing up their house. (My husband was also impressed by the book!)
85hailelib
Viii. Short and Sweet #3 And #4
Read mostly to see what all the fuss is about; two fiction books for elementary age students.
94. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Cabin Fever by Jeff Kinney -- finished Dec 12, 2011
I can understand the appeal for children but I don't think our school library needs many from this series. They will probably be a fad that runs its course. We'll see.
CMS library. 216 easy pages
95. The Maze of Bones: The 39 Clues, Book One by Rick Riordan -- Dec !4, 2011
I liked this one a lot better and may even read the next book in the series although the books are written by different authors. Will Amy and Dan make it to end of their quest? I will probably try to get more of the series for the school library in addition to the couple we already have.
From the public library. 220 easy pages.
Read mostly to see what all the fuss is about; two fiction books for elementary age students.
94. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Cabin Fever by Jeff Kinney -- finished Dec 12, 2011
I can understand the appeal for children but I don't think our school library needs many from this series. They will probably be a fad that runs its course. We'll see.
CMS library. 216 easy pages
95. The Maze of Bones: The 39 Clues, Book One by Rick Riordan -- Dec !4, 2011
I liked this one a lot better and may even read the next book in the series although the books are written by different authors. Will Amy and Dan make it to end of their quest? I will probably try to get more of the series for the school library in addition to the couple we already have.
From the public library. 220 easy pages.
86hailelib
VI. Anything Goes #11
96. Goliath by Scott Westerfeld -- finished Dec 20, 2011
Good, but definitely needs to be read after Behemoth. The first book, Leviathan, was the best but this was still pretty good. I liked the way Nikola Tesla became a major character and there were appearances by other actual people as well.
From the public library. 537 plus afterword.
96. Goliath by Scott Westerfeld -- finished Dec 20, 2011
Good, but definitely needs to be read after Behemoth. The first book, Leviathan, was the best but this was still pretty good. I liked the way Nikola Tesla became a major character and there were appearances by other actual people as well.
From the public library. 537 plus afterword.
87ivyd
>85 hailelib: Diary of a Wimpy Kid
I haven't read these yet, but my 7-year-old granddaughter has raced through the whole series in the past few months, and getting the newest one was one of her most exciting Christmas presents.
I haven't read these yet, but my 7-year-old granddaughter has raced through the whole series in the past few months, and getting the newest one was one of her most exciting Christmas presents.
88hailelib
>87 ivyd:
A lot of the students in our elementary class really love these books but since there are several in the CMS library now I think we should wait and see how popular they remain before acquiring more. Other series that were very popular are now hard to "sell" to the students and our fiction collection is pretty extensive for the small number of students we have.
A lot of the students in our elementary class really love these books but since there are several in the CMS library now I think we should wait and see how popular they remain before acquiring more. Other series that were very popular are now hard to "sell" to the students and our fiction collection is pretty extensive for the small number of students we have.
89hailelib
X. History/Biography #10
97. The war to end all wars : World War I by Russell Freedman -- finished Dec. 26, 2011
This book by Russell Freeman is an excellent introduction to World War I, covering some of the background and events just before various countries declared war, the course of the war itself, the eventual participation of the U.S. and the aftermath. He explains briefly why the world found itself once more at war only twenty years later.
Although written for middle school students (10 - 14 years old) I found it quite informative about a subject that I knew little about even though I've read some fiction recently that had the war as background. The many photographs were particularly interesting as were quotes from the journals and letters of the soldiers on the front lines.
from the CMS library. 176 pages. 940.3
97. The war to end all wars : World War I by Russell Freedman -- finished Dec. 26, 2011
This book by Russell Freeman is an excellent introduction to World War I, covering some of the background and events just before various countries declared war, the course of the war itself, the eventual participation of the U.S. and the aftermath. He explains briefly why the world found itself once more at war only twenty years later.
Although written for middle school students (10 - 14 years old) I found it quite informative about a subject that I knew little about even though I've read some fiction recently that had the war as background. The many photographs were particularly interesting as were quotes from the journals and letters of the soldiers on the front lines.
from the CMS library. 176 pages. 940.3
90hailelib
Two more finished, one a very short book primarily for children.
Short and Sweet #5
98. The Usborne Book of World Religions by Susan Meredith -- finished Dec. 31, 2011
A quick introduction to world religions with emphasis on the six major ones.
Some sayings from the last section:
Earth has enough for everyone's need but not for everyone's greed. -- Mahatma Ghandhi
Do not limit a child to your own learning, for he was born in another time. -- Talmud
It is you who must make the effort. The Great of the past only showed the way -- Dhammapada
Trust in God - but tie your camel first. -- Sufi sayings of Muhammad
Let no one be proud of their birth. Know that we are all born from the same clay. -- Guru Nanak
From the CMS library. 60 pages. 290
Short and Sweet #5
98. The Usborne Book of World Religions by Susan Meredith -- finished Dec. 31, 2011
A quick introduction to world religions with emphasis on the six major ones.
Some sayings from the last section:
Earth has enough for everyone's need but not for everyone's greed. -- Mahatma Ghandhi
Do not limit a child to your own learning, for he was born in another time. -- Talmud
It is you who must make the effort. The Great of the past only showed the way -- Dhammapada
Trust in God - but tie your camel first. -- Sufi sayings of Muhammad
Let no one be proud of their birth. Know that we are all born from the same clay. -- Guru Nanak
From the CMS library. 60 pages. 290
91hailelib
Science and Technology #9.
99. Elixir: A History of Water and Humankind by Brian Fagan -- Dec. 31,2011
Here Fagan examines the ways in which ancient societies reverenced water and carefully used it, the beginnings of irrigation and water management, and how we got to our current situation of depleting our water supply much faster than it can be replenished. He feels that we have a lot to learn from these vanished peoples and that we all need to be ever more mindful of where our water comes from and how we use it.
From the public library. 347 pages + preface, bibliography, etc. 553.7
99. Elixir: A History of Water and Humankind by Brian Fagan -- Dec. 31,2011
Here Fagan examines the ways in which ancient societies reverenced water and carefully used it, the beginnings of irrigation and water management, and how we got to our current situation of depleting our water supply much faster than it can be replenished. He feels that we have a lot to learn from these vanished peoples and that we all need to be ever more mindful of where our water comes from and how we use it.
From the public library. 347 pages + preface, bibliography, etc. 553.7
92hailelib
Spirit and Mind #4
100. Creative Mythology: The Masks of God by Joseph Campbell -- Part One and Part Two -- Finished Jan. 7, 2012
A hard read for me*, which is why I only read to the end of Part Two. May or may not go on to Parts Three and Four later.
(* I can only take so many long quotes from Joyce, Mann, Jung, et. al. before my eyes glaze over and I switch to something else!)
From my own shelves. 400 pages 291.13
100. Creative Mythology: The Masks of God by Joseph Campbell -- Part One and Part Two -- Finished Jan. 7, 2012
A hard read for me*, which is why I only read to the end of Part Two. May or may not go on to Parts Three and Four later.
(* I can only take so many long quotes from Joyce, Mann, Jung, et. al. before my eyes glaze over and I switch to something else!)
From my own shelves. 400 pages 291.13
93hailelib
VII. Spirit and Mind # 5
101. The Bible - Authorized King James Version with Apocrypha: I Chronicles through Job -- edited by Robert Carroll and Stephen Prickett -- finished January 8, 2012
A smaller 'chunk' of the Old Testament than I had originally meant to read but enough that I'm counting it anyway!
I'm ready to move on to the 12 in 12.
101. The Bible - Authorized King James Version with Apocrypha: I Chronicles through Job -- edited by Robert Carroll and Stephen Prickett -- finished January 8, 2012
A smaller 'chunk' of the Old Testament than I had originally meant to read but enough that I'm counting it anyway!
I'm ready to move on to the 12 in 12.
94hailelib
Summary of this years challenge:
I. Young at Heart -- for children of any age but mostly YA -- 11/11
II. Mystery and Suspense -- can include romantic suspense -- 11/11
III. Favorite Authors -- any genre or even nonfiction -- 11/11
IV. Next in Line -- I will try to read the 'next' book(s) in several series for a total of 11 books -- 11/11
V. Fantasy and Paranormal -- 11/11
VI. Anything Goes -- Any fiction that doesn't fit neatly into one of my other fiction categories. -- 11/11
VII. Spirit and Mind -- a.) from the KJV Bible: I Chronicles through at least Ezekiel - b.) Mythology, folklore, and legend c.)at least one each from philosophy and psychology/education. -- 5/11
VIII. Short and Sweet -- Essays, plays, poetry, short stories, books for children younger than the audience YA aims for. -- 5/11
IX. Science and Technology -- may also include history of science, invention,etc. -- 9/11
X. History, Biography/Memoir -- may also put in one or two biographical fiction as well as straight biography. -- 9/11
XI. Anything Goes Nonfiction -- 7/11
This was a total of 101 challenge books. There were also:
Rereads: 18 books
Abandoned: 1
Total: 120 books
There were, as usual, a number of children's books skimmed for work that I didn't count.
I. Young at Heart -- for children of any age but mostly YA -- 11/11
II. Mystery and Suspense -- can include romantic suspense -- 11/11
III. Favorite Authors -- any genre or even nonfiction -- 11/11
IV. Next in Line -- I will try to read the 'next' book(s) in several series for a total of 11 books -- 11/11
V. Fantasy and Paranormal -- 11/11
VI. Anything Goes -- Any fiction that doesn't fit neatly into one of my other fiction categories. -- 11/11
VII. Spirit and Mind -- a.) from the KJV Bible: I Chronicles through at least Ezekiel - b.) Mythology, folklore, and legend c.)at least one each from philosophy and psychology/education. -- 5/11
VIII. Short and Sweet -- Essays, plays, poetry, short stories, books for children younger than the audience YA aims for. -- 5/11
IX. Science and Technology -- may also include history of science, invention,etc. -- 9/11
X. History, Biography/Memoir -- may also put in one or two biographical fiction as well as straight biography. -- 9/11
XI. Anything Goes Nonfiction -- 7/11
This was a total of 101 challenge books. There were also:
Rereads: 18 books
Abandoned: 1
Total: 120 books
There were, as usual, a number of children's books skimmed for work that I didn't count.
96christina_reads
Congratulations! Looking forward to seeing you at the 12 in 12.