jayde1599 (Jess) Reading Log 2010

Hi, I'm Jess and this is my second year trying this challenge. I received a new book journal for Christmas and hope to fill that this year.

Goals this year:

1. Finally finish War and Peace! (I only have about 250 pages left!)
2. Read from my TBR pile.
3. Try not to buy too many more books (after I spend holiday gift cards).
4. Post more, lurk less

The TBR pile: (books that I own, sitting in a pile in my bedroom).

Albright, Madeleine -Madam Secretary: A Memoir
Allende, Isabel - Daughter of Fortune
Atwater-Rhodes, Amelia - The Shapeshifters
Barry, Dave - Peter and the Shadow Thieves
Barry, Dave - Peter and the Secret of Rundoon
Bradley, Marion Z. - The Mists of Avalon
Bradley, Mickey - Haunted Baseball
Bridge, Andrew - Hope's Boy
Brown, Dan - The Lost Symbol
Brown, Rita Mae - Dolley UNFINISHED
Browne, Sylvia - The Two Marys
Burroughs, Augusten - A Wolf at the Table
Carville, James - Had Enough?
Cheung, Theresa - The Element Encyclopedia of Birthdays
Chima, Cinda Williams - The Warrior Heir
Clark, Mary Higgins - Whare are You Now?
Colfer, Eoin - Eternity Code
Colfer, Eoin - Artemis Fowl and the Opal Deception
Creighton, Margaret - The Colors of Courage
Davis, Burke - The Civil War: Strange and Fascinating Facts
Davis, Michael - Street Gang: The Complete History of Sesame Street
Diamond, Jared - Guns, Germs, and Steel
Drake, John - Flint and Silver: A Prequel to Treasure Island
Edwards, Kim - The Memory Keeper's Daughter
Einstein, Albert - Ideas and Opinions
Eisenchiml, Otto - The Civil War: The American Iliad as Told by Those Who Lived It
Ettinger, Steve - Twinkie Deconstructed
Fasman, Jon - The Geographer's Library
Folsom, Allan - The Machiavelli Covenant
Frankfurt, Harry G. - On Bullshit
Franklin, Ariana - Mistress of the Art of Death
Funke, Cornelia - Inkdeath
Giovanni, Nikki - Shimmy Shimmy Shimmy Like My Sister Kate
Goldman, William - The Princess Bride
Haddon, Mark - A Spot of Bother
Harris, Joel Chandler - The Complete Tales of Uncle Remus
Hiaasen, Carl - Skinny Dip
Hodgson, Godfrey - A Great and Godly Adventure: The Pilgrims and the Myth of the First Thanksgiving
Horwitz, Tony - Confederates in the Attic
Hosseini, Khaled - A Thousand Splendid Suns
Jaques, Brian - Redwall
Jones, Diana Wynne - A Sudden Wild Magic
Kalogridis, Jeanne - I, Mona Lisa
Kass, Pnina Moed - Real Time
Kidd, Sue Monk - The Mermaid Chair
King, Stephen - Lisey's Story
King, Stephen - Nightmares and Dreamscapes
King, Stephen - Duma Key
King Stephen - The Dark Tower books 2-4
King, Stephen - The Stand
Kurson, Robert - Shadow Divers
Maass, Peter - Love Thy Neighbor: A Story of War
Mahy, Margaret - The Tricksters
Maier, Hermann - Hermann Maier: The Race of My Life
McCaig, Donald - Rhett Butler's People
Moore, Michael - Dude, Where's My Country?
Murphy, Lynda - A Book Addict's Treasury
Orwell, George - Burmese Days
Peck, Richard - A Year Down Yonder
Pollard, Alfred W. - King Arthur & the Knights of His Court
Preston, Douglas - The Book of the Dead
Preston, Douglas - The Wheel of Darkness
Ragen, Naomi - The Ghost of Hannah Mendes
Rand, Ayn - For the New Intellectual
Rollins, James - The Judas Strand
Russo, Richard - Empire Falls
Schmatz, Pat - Circle the Truth
Schwartz, Barry - The Paradox of Choice: Why Less is More
Schwartz, John Burnham - The Commoner
Shakespeare, William - Henry V
Shakespeare, William - Othello
Snickett, Lemoney - The Complete Wreck (books 1-13)
Steinbeck, John - The Acts of King Arthur and His Noble Knights
Stewart, David O. - The Summer of 1787: The Men Who Invented the Constitution
Stroud, Jonathan - The Amulet of Samarkand
Strout, Elizabeth - Olive Kitteridge
Tammet, Daniel - Born on a Blue Day
Tannen, Deborah - The Argument of Culture
Tolkien, JRR - The Tokien Reader
Tolkien, JRR - The Silmarillion
Tolkien, JRR - Unfinished Tales
Tolstoy, Leo - Anna Karenina
Wells, H.G. - The War of the Worlds

January:
1. War and Peace - Leo Tolstoy
2. The First-Time Home Owners Handbook Atlantic Publishing
3. The Acts of King Arthur and his Noble Knights- John Steinbeck
4. The Princess Bride - William Goldman
5. Twinkie Deconstructed - Steve Ettlinger
6. I, Mona Lisa - Jeanne Kalogridis
7. The Commoner-John Burnham Schwartz
8. The War of the Worlds - HG Wells

February
9. The Machiavelli Covenant = Allan Folsom
10. The Book of Lost Things - John Connolly
11. Skinny Dip - Carl Hiaassen
12. Circle the Truth - Pat Schmatz
13. A Wolf at the Table - Augusten Burroughs
14. Cursed in New England - Joseph A. Citro
15. Heroes, Volume One - Various
16. Britten and Brulightly - Hannah Berry
17. Witness - Karen Hesse

March
18. Mommywood - Tori Spelling
19. Jacob Have I Loved - Katherine Patteson
20. The Tricksters - Margaret Mahy
21. Running With Scissors - Augusten Burroughs
22. Superfreakonomics - Steven Levitt
23. I am the Messanger - Markus Zukas

April
24. The 911 Report: A Graphic Adaptation - Sid Jacobson
25. The Animal Review - Jacob Lentz
26. Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance - Robert M. Pirsig

May
27. Ghostlight - Marion Zimmer Bradley

June
28. Wizards - Jack Dann
29. Pride and Prejudice and Zombies- Tony Lee
30. Number the Stars - Lois Lowry
31. The Book of Three - Lloyd Alexander
32. The Black Cauldron - Lloyd Alexander
33. The Castle of Llyr - Lloyd Alexander
34. Taran Wanderer - Lloyd Alexander
35. The High King- Lloyd Alexander

July
36. A Thousand Splendid Suns - Khaled Hosseini - 372 pages - 2007
37. The Stand - Stephen King - 1141 pages - 1990
38. The Art of War - Sun Tzu - 172 pages - 1988 (Cleary)
39. The Lost Symbol - Dan Brown - 509 pages - 2009
40. Othello - William Shakespeare -91 pages - 1996 Dover Thrift Edition
41. Empire Falls - Richard Russo - 483 pages - 2001
42. The Stand Captain Trips - Stephen King/Aguirre-Sacasa - 2009

August
43. The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo - Stieg Larsson - 644 pages -2008
44. Ladies of Liberty - Cokie Roberts - 480 pages - 2008
45. The Lost World - Michael Crichton - 393 pages - 1995
46. Daughter of Fortune - Isabel Allende - 399 pages - 1999
47. Sammy and His Behavior Problems - Caltha Crowe - 168 pages - 2010
48. The Girl Who Played With Fire - Stieg Larsson - 724 pages - 2009
49. Born to Run - Christopher McDougall - 287 - 2009

Septemeber
50. The Memory Keeper's Daughter - Kim Edwards - 401 pages - 2005
51. It Happened in Glacier National Park - Vince Moravek - 118 pages - 2005
52. Seasonal Disorder - Pat Hagan - 148 - 2006
53 Glacier National Park - Moon - 311 pages - 2009
54. Maps and Shadows Krysia Jopek - 151 pages - 2010
55. Redwall - Brian Jacques - 351 pages - 1986
56. The Mermaid Chair - Sue Monk Kidd - 335 - 2005

October
57. Beowulf: The Script Book - Neil Gaiman -104 pages - 2007
58. Lisey's Story - Stephen King - 2006 - 513 pages
59. Dewey's Nine Lives - Vicki Myron - 2010 - 306 pages
60. The Amulet of Samarkand - Jonathan Stroud - 462 pages - 2003
61. Olive Kitteridge - Elizabeth Strout - 286 pages - 2008
62. The Picture of Dorian Gray - Oscar Wilde - 245 pages - 1891 (2010 ed.)

November
63. a spot of bother - Mark Haddon - 354 pages 2006
64. Anita Blake Vampire Hunter - Laurell K. Hamilton 2007
65. Dancing with Max - Emily Colson - 2010 - 200 pages
66. America: The Book - Jon Stewart - 2004 - 227 pages

Welcome back, Jess!

Good luck with finishing War and Peace this year. It really is worth the read.

Hi Jess, good luck with your TBR pile. That is my main challenge this year as well.

ETA: Spelling corrections, fingers aren't working yet.

I like that you mentioned gift cards. It would make a nice loophole to my no spending rule to ask for gift cards for Mother's Day and my birthday.

I've never read War and Peace. I'll have to look for a copy the next time I'm at the thrift store.

Good luck this year! Happy reading!

#5 Thanks Stasia. It really is a good read, except the war parts slow me down. I also got easily sidetracked by many other good books this year.

#6 I have 3 piles of books in my bedroom that need to be read - I am going to try to list them above when I have a chance.

#7 Definitely give War and Peace a chance...it is well worth it. A bunch of people did a group read this year, which helped motivate me to plug along.

I think gift cards are a great loophole because you are technically not spending the money on books, and it is so hard to go a year without acquiring any new books!

It took about a year, but I finally finished it! Although I read the bulk of it in 2009, I finished it today, so it is my first book of 2010:

1. War and Peace - Leo Tolstoy



I enjoyed reading about the characters, especially Pierre, Natasha, and Nicholas. I struggled through the accounts of the war and Tolstoy's reflections on history and power. Overall it is a great book and worth the time to read it.

Just an interesting side note - I have kept a book log since May of 2003 and this is my 400th book recorded.

I received Anna Karenina for Christmas, and I am debating whether to join the group read as my head might explode from all the Tolstoy! I found out I have a difficult time reading more than one book at a time, so if I dive in, it will be just AK for awhile. I may lurk on the group's thread though.

War and Peace is a book that I have never read. One year I will pick it up.

A special 'Woo Hoo' just for you, Jess!

"Post more, lurk less"- This is also one of my goals this year. Congrats on War and Peace, it's a book that I mean to read someday, but not quite yet...

Up Next:

The Acts of King Arthur and His Noble Knights -John Steinbeck (one of my favorite authors)

The First-Time Homeowner's Handbook -Joe Adamaitis
This one is kinda self explanatory...

2. The First-Time Homeowner's Handbook: A Complete Guide and Workbook for the First-Time Homeowner - Atlantic Publishing Company



Not the most exciting book for my second read of the year, but a necessary one, as we are in the process of buying a house. The book was informative and explained the process and many of the terms and agencies needed in the home buying process. My copy did not come with the CD, but many of the forms are printed in the back of the book.

Helpful, but I can't cross it off my TBR pile that I just posted above, because it was newly acquired. Maybe I should have added it to the list so I could include a strike-out :)

Oh, oh, I have The Acts of King Arthur and His Noble Knights near the top of my stack!

Congrats on the new house!

Good luck with the home buying, Jess!

Hey Santee! Glad I found you for 2010...

#16 Hi jadebird, I am having a mixed reaction to the book right now, I think my expectations were too high, and I need to remember that it was actually an unfinished work by Steinbeck. However, I've enjoyed parts of it. I will be able to explain more in my review when I finish it tonight.

#17 Thanks Stasia. We are in the fun part right now - the showings. Tomorrow we go to our first "First-time homebuyers class" that our state offers. We will see how fun that is...

# Hi Ellie, I've been lurking over at your thread too!

Congratulations on War and Peace! That is an accomplishment for sure.

Thanks Carlym.

Book #3 The Acts of King Arthur and His Noble Knights - John Steinbeck



This book is a compilation of Steinbeck's interpretation of his translation of Sir Thomas Malory's Le Morte d'Arthur, a book that he fell in love with when he read it at age nine. The book is unfinished and I really wish he was able to finish it or write his own Arthurian legend. As a Steinbeck fan, this book didn't hold up to his other works, but when reading the Appendix, which includes letters written to his editor and agent, one can see how much he put into just the translation of Malory's work. The book includes tales of Merlin, Arthur, Lancelot, Guinivere, and Morgan le Fay. The beginning tale, Merlin, is difficult to get into because it feels like just a translation and doesn't have that Steinbeck touch
But, tale of Gawain, Ewain, and Marhalt is great! It feels complete retelling. The last story, The Noble Tale of Sir Lancelot of the Lake contains many adventures strung together and then abruptly ends.

I enjoyed the book, especially after the Gawain, Ewain, and Marhalt tale. It is just difficult to read an unedited and unfinished book. Had he completed the book, it would have been one of Steinbeck's greatest adventures. Reading the letters at the end shows how much he strived for perfection and the amount of worry and work that he put into his writing. Reading the letters redeems the disappointment of reading the unfinished tales because it shows what Arthur and his knights meant to John Steinbeck.

So that is one book to cross off the TBR pile... next up is The Princess Bride - a santathing pick from my santa, elliepotten :)

#21: Too bad that one is unfinished. I think I will give it a pass.

I wish Steinbeck could have finished! I love King Arthur and Camelot!

Any by the way, I love the list of books in your room. I've read a few, but I've been meaning to read many on your list! Can't wait to hear what you think about them all!

Good luck with The Princess Bride (and I am, actually, Ellie - no cryptic handle there!)... It's in one of my 1010 categories for this year too, and I've heard such wonderful things about it!

Yikes! Real life has been extremely busy lately and I have neglected to post, but I have been lurking. Thank goodness for 3-day weekends because I finally caught up with the threads! It's a very busy place here this year! If I am going to get any reading done, I think I will just have to read the starred ones and spend my next vacation catching up again.

I finished The Princess Bride (review to follow) and have started Twinkie Deconstructed to mix a little non-fiction in with all of the fantasy I have been reading lately.

Book 4: The Princess Bride by William Goldman



This is a fabulous book full of adventure, love, humor, and fantasy. Goldman uses the literary device of claiming to abridge the great Florin writer S. Morgenstern's novel into "just the good parts." He really had me believing this for the first full chapter until I looked it up on wikipedia (lol). Goldman's narrative is entertwined with the love story between Buttercup the milkmaid and Westley the Farm Boy.

Westley goes off to become rich and win Buttercup's love. Meanwhile the beautiful Buttercup is made a princess by evil Prince Humperdinck and Count Rugen, so that she can marry him. His plan is foiled when she is kidnapped by the hunchback -Vizzini, the giant Turk -Fezzik, and the Spanish swordsman -Inigo. Buttercup is then resuced by the the Man in Black who turns out to be her long lost love Westley. Prince Humperdinck catches them and takes Buttercup and imprisons Westley, and the adventure begins again.

I saw the movie years ago, long enough where I could enjoy the book and not be thinking about the movie. The book is just as funny as I remember the movie to be. I really liked the literary twists that Goldman used that brought the reader not only into the story of The Princess Bride, but also into Goldman's time writing the novel, screenplay, and the sequel "book" Buttercup's Baby.

I would definitely recommend this book, even if you have seen the movie (Goldman wrote the screenplay).

Hi Jess

I love the move The Princess Bride. It is so darn funny. I've not read the book, so now I'm tempted to do so. Thanks for your great comments.

Oh, I'm so glad you liked it! *heaves small sigh of relief* I'm really looking forward to it - I've added it to my 'Lights, Camera' Action' category for my 1010...

I actually don't like th efilm, but that's because I can't stand an actor (the Sicilian bad guy - I hate his spittle lips. Ugh. Makes my skin crawl). I've heard from several people that I should try the book, and your review sealed the deal. Thanks!

#29 & 31: As a rule, I generally prefer the book over the movie and this is no exception. The movie was one of the first movie my husband and I saw together when we first started dating and I had a hard time with some of the acting too. The satire really works in the book, especially if don't picture the movie while reading it. For some reason, I could not picture the Sicilian - maybe the spittle caused a memory block. We plan on renting the movie this week for old times sake.

#30: Thanks Ellie, I did enjoy it. I can't wait to hear what your thoughts are when you get to it.

#28: I am actually lucky enough to own a first edition of that book. I must dig it out for a re-read!

Book 5: Twinkie Deconstructed-Steve Ettlinger



This book started out strong, beginning with a question from the author's children," Where does Polysorbate 60 come from, Daddy?" I was curious to know where polysorbate 60 came from as well so I kept reading. Ettlinger explores processed foods by taking the ingredients from one of the world's most processed foods: the Twinkie. The ingredients become his chapter headings and he digs deeper into the plains of the midwest, oil fields in China, processing plants in New Jersey, and gypsum mines in Oklahoma.

The book lost me when it went into detail of the chemistry of how rock is turned into baking soda and soybeans are hydrogenated into oil. It was interesting, but not really my cup of tea. In order to extend shelf life, companies began exploring food wastes that were just dumped into rivers 200 years ago. Now, they are common ingredients that are labeled "natural" in many food products because they come from natural resources. Kinda gross.

I would recommend this book to anyone interested in food science and not so much to the casual reader who is curious to find out where polysorbate 60 comes from, because honestly, I still don't really understand what exactly it is made from.

I forgot to say that my current read is I, Mona Lisa by Jeanne Kalogridis. I am hoping a little historical fiction can help get me back on the reading track.

>34 jayde1599:: I am definitely adding that to my wishlist! (I also like that the Twinkie on the cover kind of looks like it's bathed in holy light or something.)

For the puzzled British girl who keeps hearing this word and is still clueless: what exactly is a Twinkie? All I know is that Donnie Darko advises someone to tell her sister to get off the couch and stop eating them if she wants to lose weight! Not much to go on really...

#36: it does look like it's bathed in a holy light! :)

#37: Twinkie's are a snack cake made by Hostess that have become infamous in the US for a number of urban myths about them. Some that I can remember include: Twinkies will survive for 25 years on a broiling rooftop and still be edible. Twinkies are made from so many chemicals that they sit in your stomach undigested for 7 years.

When he was president, Bill Clinton chose put one in the millennium time capsule.
If you google "Twinkies," there are some interesting websites about them. twinkiesproject.com is a website about experiments that Rice University did on Twinkies including, dropping a Twinkie off a tall building, submerging in a glass of water, and setting one on fire.

We were not allowed junk food growing up, but I got to taste a twinkie when I visited my aunt. When you bite into the golden cake, the creme filling explodes in your mouth. Talking about Twinkies kind of makes me want to try one again, but I don't think I'm brave enough after reading the book!

#34: As someone who has a lifelong hatred of Twinkies, I am interested in finding out what makes them tick, lol. I think I will give that one a try. Thanks for the recommendation, Jess.

I just got back from Borders where they had a huge sale - 50% off the red-tag books! Along with a coupon and borders bucks, I found it a great way to finish off my holiday gift cards. And, I can justify the fact that I did not spend any money on books to my husband!

I got in hardcover:
The Judas Strain by James Rollins
A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini
King Arthur and the Knights of His Court - abridged by Alfred W. Pollard
The War of the Worlds by H.G. Wells

In paperback:
The Shapeshifters by Ameilia Atwater Rhodes (This book is a compilation of five of her novels: Hawksong, Snakecharm, Falcondance, Wolfcry, and Wyvernhail). She is a young adult author whose Den of Shadows is a vampire series that I think is well written and enjoyable. She grew up a few towns over from the town I lived in Massachusetts. I also find it incredible that she published the first book at age 15! Compared to today's YA vampire rubbish (sorry if I offend anyone), this series is much more creative.

Nice haul!

>37 elliepotten:-39: I have never liked Twinkies right out of the box, but I discovered I love them batter-fried (but only in very small quantities).

#38 You forgot this story in your urban myths - although it's really half true: The man who murdered Harvey Milk got a light sentence because he had eaten some junk foods, including Twinkies, before the murder, and said he was on a sugar high. They called it The Twinkie Defense.
Twinkies are nasty. A woman I know who keeps kosher told me she has always wondered about two foods - cheeseburgers and Twinkies. I think I convinced her that she's not missing anything by avoiding Twinkies.
I'm intrigued by the Twinkie book. I want to know where all the various polysorbates come from.

Um, thanks Jess... you've managed to make them sound quite yummy and utterly revolting at the same time! Evidently I've not missed too much there, interesting scientific experimentation aside...

I think I'll be giving Twinkie, Deconstructed a look. Thanks!

Also: Our Renaissance Festival has a booth that sells deep fried twinkies. The same stand also sells deep-fried snickers and oreos (all wrapped in funnel cake dough before frying). Attending faire pregnant was fantastic, because I had a built-in excuse to eat some of the most disgusting (and delicious) foods served.

I have never had deep-fried twinkies/snickers/oreos. Using Ellie's words - it sounds yummy and revolting at the same time! I have had fried ice cream.

Fair food is the best! Late summer/fall is fair season here and we have one called the Common Ground fair which supports local/organic farmers. Even though they are organic, there is nothing healthy about eating fresh cut french fries right from the deep fryer. However they are tasty, especially with vinegar!

Book 6: I, Mona Lisa



Read: January 20-25, 2010
Pages: 515

What a great book! The author bring Renaissance Florence to life. The story follows Lisa di Antonio Gherardini as she is caught in a spiral of deceit, love, and murder. Thirteen years before her birth, Giuliano de Medici is assassinated in an attempt to overthrow the Medici power. His brother Lorenzo survives and takes revenge. Upon his death, many years later a fanatic preacher gains popularity and wants to destroy all items that display wealth. Florence and Lisa's family are threatened.

The story is riveting and I could hardly put it down! The history appears factual and feels as if you are in 15th century Florence. The story puts an interesting twist on the famous face painted by Leonardo da Vinci.
Recommended! 41/2 stars

Up next is The Commoner by John Burnham Schwartz... I am hoping another historical fiction book will continue the good reads.

#48: Too bad my local library does not have a copy of that one. It looks very good.

Just wishlisted! Thanks for bringing it to my attention.

Book #7: The Commoner-John Burnham Schwartz



Synopsis: In 1959, Haruko gives up her life as a commoner to become the wife of the Crown Prince of Japan. She gives up her freedom, independence, and family to a life where her only expectancy is to produce an heir - a son. Her first child is a son and the demands placed upon her by tradition and the Empress cause her to have a breakdown. When she finally becomes stronger, she resolves to never be broken again. Thirty years later, when she is Empress that same resolve helps Haruko to protect her new daughter-in-law.

The first chapter of the book, about Haruko's childhood during the WWII bombings in Japan drew me into the story. However, after that the preceeding chapters, although eloquently written in great detail, were rather dull.

Just when I was about to abandon the book, Haurko marries the Prince, and the book gets much better. It is one of those books that when I finished reading it, I felt sad and fulfilled at the same time. Recommended if you can get through the first 200 pages or so. 3.5 out of 5 STARS

#52: I think I will give that one a pass for now.

I don't post enough - I couldn't find my own thread!

Double posted up above

Book #8: The War of the Worlds - H.G. Wells



I don't know if I totally enjoyed this book and I had "updated version for the modern reader." What this really meant is that they put an asterisk by a word that they thought a reader in this generation may not know and put the definition in a footnote. That bothered me somewhat, but the overall story didn't appeal to me. I thought that there would be more action between the Martians and humans. The story is told through first person and I didn't feel the emotion. I am glad that I read this classic though. Overall, I thought it was 3 stars.

Hmmm, I was thinking of getting a copy of this one - but given your lukewarm response I think I'll stick to all the other books I've got waiting in the wings for now! Thanks for the temporary reprieve... :-)

Book #9 The Machiavelli Covenant - Allan Folsom



Former LAPD detective, Nicholas Marten is at the bedside of childhood sweetheart, Caroline when she dies. She called him to Washington from England because she though someone had intentionally injected her with a virus. Nicholas begins to investigate and uncovers a secret society dating back to author Niccolo Machiavelli, and whose purpose is to keep the rich and powerful in charge. The plot thickens when president of the United States, John Henry Harris goes missing. Along with French photographer, Demi Picard, they try to out run the CIA, secret service, and Spanish Intelligence.

This was a global conspiracy thriller that didn't get exciting until after about 100 pages. The story was captivating for a short while, but then the plot became extremely unbelievable (more than the average political thriller) and the book seemed to drag on. This is the second book of a trilogy and I didn't read the first, but I do not think that would have helped. Only recommended if you are really into political/global thrillers. **1/2

Up next: read more of Anna Karenina... and I am not sure what else. I am trying to read books that I have borrowed from friends in preparation for our upcoming move. I figure it will be easier to unload books that I don't own before I need to try to weed out my own books. :)

#54 lol, that happens to me too! :)

Jess, I, Mona LIsa sounds great and I've added it to the list. Your review is wonderful!

#58: Hope the next read is better for you, Jess!

Linda, out of the stack of books my MIL gave me to read - I, Mona Lisa is the best so far. I really enjoy historical fiction.

I decided on Dolley by Rita Mae Brown (a novel about Dolley Madison) as the next one from MIL. I am a little cautious because I didn't care for the last book I read by Brown. I am hoping that since Dolley is a different genre than Santa Clawed, I will like better. So far the first chapter isn't bad.

Friends love Rita Mae Brown. I never could get into her books.

Laughing at the Twinkie discussion, I've never had one but the deep fried Mars Bar is an infamous Glaswegian delicacy! I guess I shouldn't be surprised that something similar has been done in the US.

#64: I don't think her books are fore me either. I'm trying 1 more though.

#65: Deep fried Mars bars! What else will people think to throw in a deep fryer? Speaking of chocolate and grease - I saw chocolate covered potato chips in the candy store this weekend. I was too flabbergasted to try one! Apparently, they are a big hit!

On a side note: I am really enjoying Anna Karenina. I am glad I decided to join the group read!

Chocolate covered potato chips?! I've tried chocolate covered bacon and it wasn't half bad, but potato chips? That sounds like a bit too much, even for me. How do they make sure the chip stays crispy?!?

#67: That's a good question! I found a picture that looks similar to the chips I saw. At least they make the treat look edible:

I don't fancy chocolate-covered bacon much, but I do find that if I eat a bag of crisps, especially ready salted ones, I always fancy chocolate at the same time. Not sure about mixing them quite so literally though...

I've had chocolate covered potato chips. Bloomingdales used to sell them in the early 90s. A nice mix of salty and sweet - like chocolate covered pretzels. The chips are still crisp, although not as crisp as eating uncoated ones right out of the bag. They're actually very good.

I just bought a bacon-chocolate bar last night, and it wasn't that great. It didn't taste very bacon-y. Just salty.

I don't know about chocolate covered bacon - that just sounds awful to me! :)
I do like chocolate covered pretzels, so maybe chocolate covered chips would be palatable??

I haven't gotten much reading done this week. If the weather cooperates, I will be on a flight Sunday, so hopefully I can catch up with the books I want to finish!

Chocolate covered anything sounds terrible to me. Yuck!

Have a good flight, Jess.

>68 jayde1599:: Hmm, you're right, it does look edible... well, if I ever come across chocolate covered potato chips, I guess I'll have to try them! Can't say I'll be seeking them out though... haha.

Have a good flight, Jess - and I hope you get lots of lovely reading done. It's been a fair old while since I've been anywhere by plane, or train, for that matter, but they do make such good reading-places!

Thanks - I will be traveling to visit my grandparents with my sister and 20 month old nephew. The flight should be interesting - I've never traveled with a baby before. So, I am hoping to get some reading done!

I am back and trying to catch up on threads! This group has been busy!

My nephew was super on the plane - not a peep, so I was able to get a little reading done.

I read:
The Book of Lost Things - John Connolly - Loved it!
Skinny Dip - Carl Hiaasen - An interesting read considering I was in the Everglades.
Circle the Truth - a YA novel regarding truth, religion, and reality. Good book

I will post reviews later. I am not having much luck getting through Dolley, but I am not ready to give up yet. I am also trying to keep up with the Anna Karenina group, which is turning out to be a great book.

Hi Jess. Glad you enjoyed The Book of Lost Things - I read that recently and loved it too! I'll look out for your reviews of the other books.

Book #10: The Book of Lost Things - John Connolly



Synopsis: David is a boy living in England during WWII. His father marries Rose after David's mother dies and they all move into Rose's old house with a sunken garden. Life moves on and they have a baby named Georgie. David feel bitter and wants his old life back with his mother. One night, he hears his mother calling and follows her voice behind a stone wall in the sunken garden. He enters a dangerous land, where he doesn't know who to trust. There is the Crooked Man who frightens David and wants something from him. David must try to find the king, for it is told that the king has a book of Lost Things that will help David find his way home.

This is a great book! It is an interesting mix of fantasy and fairy tale. The fairy tale aspect makes the book feel familiar - there are wolves, wood cutters, dwarves, witches, and a floating castle protected by thorns. The characters come alive and I felt myself holding my breath during some of the close encounters that David faces. Definitely recommended!

Book #11: Skinny Dip - Carl Hiaassen



Synopsis: Things just don't go right for crooked marine biologist Chaz Perrone. He scammed his way into getting a PhD and working for a farmer in the Everglades faking data on the farms chemical output. He throws his beautiful, wealthy wife off a cruise ship during their second anniversary. Now, he feels that the detective is closing in on him and someone keeps breaking into his house trying to scare him.

His wife, Joey is a champion swimmer. She begins swimming to shore, where she is discovered clinging to a bale of pot by ex-cop Mick Stanahan. Joey is angry and she wants revenge on Chaz, so Mick decides to help her.

Set in the southern Florida Everglades, this is a funny, fast paced mystery. Even though the mystery part is blatantly given to the reader, the book is compelling enough not to put down. It hi-lights the dangers of dumping waste into a fragile eco-system and how many people did not seem to care about the Everglades until congress set aside millions of dollars to protect it. Even then, money hungry developers made shady deals with agricultural and other businesses that thought the land was nothing more than a swamp that could be filled in to bring in more money.

An interesting note: I was down in the Everglades last week, so this was an especially interesting book for me. In the story, a character releases his two pythons into the Everglades because he can no longer care for them. He thinks that this would be the best environment, even though pythons are not native to Florida. I learned that many people actually do this to their unwanted snakes and that pythons are multiplying and destroying the Everglades, eating the water fowl and alligators. They are just as dangerous as the developers and companies dumping waste into the Everglades.

Book #12: Circle the Truth - Pat Schmatz



Synopsis: Orithian Haley does not know much about his deceased father, except that he loved mountains and chose Rith's name. Fighting with his step-father, Rith discovers that on some nights the carpeted staircase in his house changes into a wooden spiral staircase leading down to a fireplace with an old man sitting on the hearth. The old man is accompanied by a gray cat and does not talk to Rith, but quotes from the Bible. Not big on religion, Rith is still drawn to the old man's words and sets out to figure out the truths of the world and the reality of his heritage.

This was an interesting YA novel that is part fantasy, part theology, and part philosophy. The main theme is truth and the reality of the world we live in. This book could generate some good discussion for older readers. Recommended.

Book #13: A Wolf at the Table - Augusten Burroughs



Synopsis: Another memoir by the author, this time focusing on his early childhood relationship with his father. The only thing Augusten craves from his father is attention and love. He only gets a cold, hatred of a response back. Augusten knows that there is something wrong with his alcoholic father, and not just the chilling smile that his father gives him late at night. As Augusten grows older, his relationship with his father gets scarier and more distant.

This is another memoir where the reader is left thinking where was DHHS and how could these people have children? The author is insightful, and appears to be grounded despite what he went through growing up. I liked this book better than Possible Side Effects and I still need to read Running with Scissors. It was interesting to see how his interpretation of their life differs from his older brother's view in Look Me in the Eyes, which I read last year.

Sorry for the long delay in my reviews. I went to visit my grandparents and then got an ear infection :(
I guess the benefit of being home sick is that I got caught up on all of the threads and reviews.

I gave up on Dolley for now after reading 100 pages and just not getting into it. I have so many other books that I want to read in my TBR pile. I may not return it to it's original owner just yet.... I'm a little OCD about finishing books.

Currently reading a YA book: The Tricksters by Margaret Mahy. This is one that has been sitting in the pile for awhile.

I already have Skinny Dip in the BlackHole and I am adding Circle the Truth as well. Thanks for the reviews and recommendations, Jess.

I hope the ear infection is gone!

Aww, see, that's not fair. I drop by your thread and BAM, I get machine gunned down by a barrage of reviews for Great Books I Must Read Immediately. OK, The Book of Lost Things is already on my shelves, so we're good there. I highly recommend Running with Scissors, which you are now obliged to read since you've thrown A Wolf at the Table back in return. And darn and blast it, we had a copy of Skinny Dip at the shop and WE SOLD IT YESTERDAY!!! Now I have to go buy it...

I hope you're pleased with yourself. :-)

#85: LOL Ellie! If it makes you feel any better, I found the audio version of Running with Scissors on sale at a local bookshop...and I bought it. So much for my no buying books "with my own money" rule this year. Hopefully it will liven up my commute to and from work.

Book # 14: Cursed in New England - Joseph A. Citro



Synopsis: A creepy and mysterious collection of historical accounts of curses that destroyed people, places, and objects around New England. The author researched and found a collection of tales from old Yankee folklore and brings them to life. At the same time, he let's the reader decide for himself whether to believe that things were simple bad luck or words uttered to cause harm.

I recognized some of the tales from Maine - the curse of the Desert of Maine and the curse put on the Saco River. The author included tales from Native American lore, coastal ship wreck curses, and curses brought on by witches.

The book was so engaging that I stayed up until 2 AM reading it - and then couldn't sleep because I was creeped out! Definitely recommended for those who enjoy supernatural tales and those familiar with New England.

Book #15: Heroes, Volume One - Various artists



Synopsis: This graphic novel follows the television show, Heroes. It was originally designed as online web-comics to further enhance the television experience. It is a collection of 34 comics that are stories that happened in between the episodes.

Hiro, Claire, Peter, Nathan, Niki, Micah, and many other characters from the show are in the comic, as well as new characters. The comics reveal how the Petrelli family is linked to Linderman, and why certain characters act the way they do.

Even though this followed season one, and is a bit outdated, it was a nice rainy day read.

Rounding out February's reading were:

16. Britten and Brulightly - Hannah Berry
17. Witness - Karen Hesse

Both are excellent. I will try to get reviews out this week.

In my determination to read off my TBR pile, I forgot how much I enjoyed the library. I took home a few books that I have been interested in for awhile. It doesn't help my TBR pile, but it helps narrow down the wishlist!

Jess...

I have to get a copy of Cursed in New England. Your description is intriguing!

#89: I am glad you enjoyed Britten and Brulightly!

Thank you for the recommendation Stasia - Britten and Brulightly was a great read!

I have been super busy lately so I haven't had time to do full reviews, but I recently finished:

18. Mommywood Tori Spelling

19. Jacob Have I Loved - Katherine Paterson - Great YA novel set on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay during the 1940's.

20. The Tricksters - Margaret Mahy - A YA ghost story set in New Zealand during the Christmas holiday. A real disappointment. The big reveal at the end had nothing to do with the Tricksters. See my review on the work page of the book for a more detailed explanation. I will copy and paste it here when I have more time.

21. Running With Scissors - Augusten Burroughs - Audio book read by the author detailing his childhood living with a mother who has mental illness. Recommended - Burroughs does a great reading.

I read Jacob Have I Loved last year as part of my Newbery quest. I liked it.

I have not yet read Jacob Have I Loved. Thanks for the reminder!

Oooo, I, Mona Lisa looks good - thanks for the recommendation! I would so love to go back to Florence someday, so maybe this is a cheap way to get there in my imagination at least...

Speaking of recommendations - I'm looking for a specific one - my daughter is graduating from high school in May and on her way to college to become a teacher. Would you have any ideas about a book that might be inspiring or instructive about this career choice? Thanks for any advice!

WoW! I haven't been on LT for about a month! I didn't disappear, but we bought a house! So weekends and nights have been spent cleaning and painting and not much reading. I did get these 3 books read before the whirlwind started.

22. SuperFreakonomics: Global Cooling, Patriotic Prostitutes, and Why Suicide Bombers Should Buy Life Insurance - Steven D. Levitt:
Not as good as Freakonomics. It feels less researched, less put together, and more like they rushed to get a sequel out. I recommend Freakonomics, but avoid Superfreakonomics.

23. I am the Messenger - Markus Zusak: I really liked this one. I can't decide if I like this or, The Book Thief better, but I am leaning towards I am the Messenger. It is an interesting mystery with a twist.

24. The 9/11 Report: A Graphic Adaptation - Sid Jacobson: A graphic novel is probably the only way that I could read the 911 report. The book is well drawn and seems like it covers what happened to lead up to the terrorist attacks.

I am not sure when I will be back on LT. I am trying to read Anna Karenina as we are getting the house ready. All my others books are boxed up. I am lurking though! ;)

#96: If you liked I Am the Messenger better then you are the first person I have seen who did, other than myself. I have been a minority of one for a long time :)

Glad to hear that the move went well. I hope you guys get settled in quickly.

>95 Milda-TX:: Milda, I am sorry it has taken me so long to respond to your post. When I graduated, someone gave me Dr. Seuss's Oh, the Places You Will Go. I thought that was a cute gift that I could use in my classroom as well as being inspirational. Does your daughter know what type of classroom she would be interested in teaching yet? - special education, elementary education... That may help me think of instructional books. One type of book I wished I had was one of those all year bulletin board blackline master books, and 1st year teachers books that come with forms that you can photocopy. As a special educator, I was always inspired by Torey Hayden's books, and books by Temple Grandin. I hope this helps...

Hope you're having fun moving in and organizing and all! What fun, but stressful too isn't it!

Emily is thinking elementary ed. She'll have an ESL cert too by the time she graduates. And she wants to stay in TX, so she'll have special ed kids included in her classroom. I'm just worried about her expectations - she seems to want to go down this path because she thinks she's good with kids. Not that it's a bad thing. But I wonder if she realizes how much work and energy it's going to take to really command that classroom every day. And I want for her to be thinking about education as a profession, not just something fun to study in college. So! long story isn't it! But thank you - I will check out those authors!

Back to the unpacking for you!

Hello! It's been a while since I've looked at your thread. You've read some interesting books! Cursed in New England sounds interesting -- I've read another one of Citro's books of NE folklore, and enjoyed it. Lots of other good reads here, too.

Congrats on the new house!

#99 - Milda: There is definitely a lot of time and energy put into running a classroom! My students leave at 3:00, but I am usually there until 5:00 completing paperwork, cleaning up, and lesson planning. I remember back in college, many of my friends were jealous because I had some fun projects (making games, designing a classroom) instead of writing papers, however once I got into the later courses, it was more business. Once the professors start talking about assessments and standards, and law...you find out that teaching is much more of a serious profession then people think, especially nowadays with teaching jobs correlating to student performance. I'll be interested to hear how things go, I thought about ESL, but went the Sped route... Once I get settled in, I will think of some more resources - I know there are some good books out there...

#100 - Hi Terri, thanks for stopping by. I haven't been on much and my reading has definitely stalled. I am interested in more of Citro's books, I thought he did a decent job of researching his stories. Which one did you read?

#25: The Animal Review - Jacob Lentz

This was my first early reviewer book! I was definitely pleased.
Jacob Lentz and Steve Nash put together a humorous collection of animal facts, each with their own rating and grade. They classified the animals into 4 categories: land, sky, water, and other. In addition to facts, graphs, charts, and color photos are included. The book is more satire than informative and the ratings are highly subjective (animals that are cute and fuzzy seemed to get F's, while big, powerful, and poisonous animals got A's). The Animal Review is entertaining and would make a great gift book or a book just to make you laugh. Grade: B+

#103: Sounds fun! I will look for it. Thanks for the recommendation, Jess.

#102 I have two of Citro's books -- Green Mountain Ghosts, Ghouls & Unsolved Mysteries (touchstone for that doesn't seem to be working; and Passing Strange: True Tales of New England Hauntings and Horrors. It's been a few years since I read them, but I recall that I enjoyed them.

I collect "spooky" folklore from areas that I visit, and they were perfect souvenirs of a trip to New England!

Hi! It has been awhile, and some slow reading... but I finally finished another book

26. Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance - Robert M. Pirsig

I enjoyed this book, although it took me longer to read it than I thought it would. The narrator and his son take a cross country, spiritual journey on a motorcycle. He examines deep, philosophical views and compares those to maintaining a motorcycle in prime condition. I definitely enjoyed the father-son narrative more than the examination into his emotional decline. I think this is a book that a re-read will bring more enlightenment.

Now that I am more settled, I should hopefully catch up on my reading! I bought new bookshelves and have 2 shelves double stacked for the TBR pile. However, I think catching up on the threads will be the equivalent of reading a long novel!

#105 Terri, I apologize that it has taken me over a month to respond! Passing Strange: True Tales of New England Hauntings and Horrors looks like something I will enjoy. What part of New England did you visit?

I am originally from Massachusetts, and I have enjoyed folk lore books from that area - especially Salem and the witch trials. My aunt lives there and Salem is one of the best towns to visit around Halloween.

Congratulations on the new bookshelves! I am jealous :)

#107 Over the years, we've visited various parts of New England. We've been to every NE state, though there are areas of each that we've yet to explore. I think I bought the Citro books during a trip to New Hampshire and Vermont.

We spent some time in Massachusetts a couple of summers ago -- Cape Cod, Boston, and Salem. I lived briefly in the Boston area many years ago, and my husband has some relatives near there.

# 27. Ghostlight - Marion Zimmer Bradley

This is my first MZB book, I have been wanting to read Mists of Avalon, but have yet to obtain it. I figured I would start with this one. Truth Jourdemayne is a parapsychologist, with a firm disbelief in the occult. With good reason, as her father is Thorne Blackburn. Thorne claimed to have magickal powers from ancient gods. He led a spiritual ritual in 1969 that left Truth's mother dead and his followers scattered around the world.

Truth goes to the scene of the ritual, Shadow's Gate, to learn more about her father. She meets Julian Pilgrim and new followers set to recreate Blackburn's work. And so the mystery starts...

Overall, I thought it was an okay book. I found the plot interesting. However, I found the characters were slightly annoying. The ending was not spectacular, but I didn't hate it either. A 3-star book.

I think I will pass on that one, Jess. I hope you enjoy your next read better!

I just, ahem, 'acquired' The Mists of Avalon (read: nicked it from the shop) and I'm rather looking forward to it. It's very dense, with small print and and archaic air to it, but it was already starting to draw me in as I was flicking through it so I thought I'd go for it!

Hi Ellie... Every time I go into a bookshop I pick up The Mists of Avalon but I have yet to purchase it. Let me know what you think.

#28. Wizards Magical Tales from the Masters of Modern Fantasy
This book is a collection of short stories, involving wizards and magic. I am not a huge short story fan, I find myself wanting more, but this anthology included stories from some of the well known fantasy writers: Gaiman, Nix, Colfer, Yolen, etc. Most of the stories are geared to the YA population, although a few of them can pull in the adult reader as well. I won't go into detail on all of them, but I will gloss over some that I really enjoyed:

The Witch's Headstone Neil Gaiman - I believe this short story led up to The Graveyard Book, it follows a boy named Bod, who makes his home in the graveyard. The moral of this story is kindness.

Holly and Iron - Garth Nix I found this story the most magical in the lot. It follows two races and two ancient forms of magic: The Normans (iron) and the Inglish (holly). Of course the two magics collide and there are battles and spells and everything magical in a fantasy story....

Winters Wife - Elizabeth Hand - This story is set in Maine and it combines Native American and Icelandic legends with modern environmental morality. When a rich outsider begins to cut down sacred forest, magic helps to stop the destruction. I wish that could really be the case... Great story

Zinder - Tanith Lee - This tale is a spin on the "Ugly Duckling" story involving a secret magician.

Stonefather - Orson Scott Card - This story takes place in the same world as the Mithermages series, which I have not read. Runnel, a poor boy from the mountains leaves his home for a better life and discovers his true self. This was also a great tale.

I would recommend this book to fantasy fans for these short stories alone, the others could be considered bonus stories.

# 29 Pride and Prejudice and Zombies: The Graphic Novel - Tony Lee

I think that the graphic novel was the only way I was going to read this book. I haven't gotten into the whole "zombie" thing...nor have I understood what the attraction is, but I did enjoy this graphic novel. I don't really know how to review it other than take the classic by Jane Austen and throw in some zombies, make the Bennett girls warriors to save Britain from the "unmentionables" and there you have it. The graphics are all right, and do help the imagination envisions Zombies attacking Hertfordshire. My little nephew saw the cover of the book on the table, looked at it and said, "Ahh, that scares me." He then proceeded to throw the book down. And that would be the review of a 2 year old.

I guess I would recommend it if you are into the zombie thing??

Currently reading: The Stand by Stephen King

Stalled on: Ladies of Liberty - Cokie Roberts, I hope to get back into this one soon.

#113 Hi Jess. Your review of Wizards is so much better than mine. I see you liked the Nix story better than I did. I'm re-reading the Abhorsen books now, which are his best (imo) and this story just didn't compare.
I highly recommend The Mists of Avalon.
What version of The Stand are you reading? - the original or the expanded version? (or as the touchstone says - the Complete and Uncut edition)

Thanks for the recommendation for The Mists of Avalon...I will probably pick it up next time I go to the book shop.

I am reading the "complete and uncut" version of The Stand. So far I am enjoying it, although it is quite heavy! The PB version I have is 1135 pages - it makes me wonder how much King added from the original?

#30 Number the Stars - Lois Lowry

Juvenille fiction story set in Nazi occupied Denmark during World War II is the story of Annemarie Johansen and her friend Ellen Rosen. Annemarie's family must help hide Ellen as the soldiers come to collect all of the Jewish residents of Copenhagen. This is a heartwarming story for younger readers that introduces them to the evils that happened in Nazi occupied Europe. I do not remember reading this book as a student, but I know that my younger sister read it in school and was moved by it. Recommended for the 9-12 year old range.

I got this book for free at a yard sale and it was a quick read to interrupt The Stand - I am still working on that. I also picked up a few books at the library. For some reason, I have book ADD lately and need to mix things up a bit.

>114 jayde1599: I haven't gotten into the whole "zombie" thing...nor have I understood what the attraction is...

Me either. One the problems I had with The Forest of Hands and Teeth was the whole moaning and shuffling thing. I couldn't help but come up with images of the old movie, Night of the Living Dead. There is no sexiness, fun or intelligence with beings whose only mission is to eat human flesh. I started the Austen spin-off but couldn't finish it. I have to say that I did laugh out loud when they were at the ball and the zombies started coming into the ballroom. Their father called out something along the line of, "Girls, get into the pentacle of flaming death." (I can't find my copy to get the exact quote). If I come across the graphic novel I might read it to see if I missed anything.

Heehee...the graphic novel has the pentagram of death line in it too - with a visual! I laughed at that too.

I did not care for The Forest of Hands and Teeth either. I am not sure it was the zombies as much as the writing in that case though. One zombie book that I loved (to my surprise!) was World War Z by Max Brooks.

I hope your reading funk ends soon for you, Jess!

My daughter disagrees with me about zombies making good reading. She has given me Breathers with a warning about its grossness.

> 121: Stasia, World War Z has been in my wishlist for awhile, maybe I will attempt another zombie book sooner than later!

> 122: Mamzel: Let me know what you think of breathers - I usually try to avoid gross. But I do like satire...

I was extremely late to the group read of the Chronicles of Prydain. The bookshop didn't have The Book of Three and the library one was REALLY dirty* when everyone started, so I became a lurker of the thread instead.
* I hate gross & stained library books...so it limits what I take out from the library.

While at the library last week, I saw the first three books (that were relatively clean) and thought, "what the heck?" I quickly read through those yesterday and today I picked up the last two books in the series at a different branch.

To sum up my thoughts - Why didn't I read this as a kid?

I'll post my thoughts on all of them when I finish reading The High King.

#124: Glad you are enjoying The Chronicles, Jess! I enjoyed them all as well.

Okay, I finished the Chronicles of Prydain the other day and I thought it was a great series overall. I remember seeing this series as a child, but I didn't really read fantasy until I was in college - when my to-be husband handed me The Hobbit. The similarities between LOTR and Prydain are huge. I went back and checked the publication date - LOTR was published a decade before Prydain. Despite the similarities, I think Alexander wove his own magical world that was geared for a younger audience and can hold its own to the plethora of juvenille fantasy books out there.

***Possibly some spoilers below:

The Book of Three - This was my least favorite of the lot, mainly because Taran annoyed me so much. He appeared whiny, arrogant, and well childish. Which I guess was the point, so the reader could see his growth in subsequent books. The book was a nice introduction to the colorful cast of characters.

The Black Cauldron - I read somewhere else, that people thought the pace of this book was quick - I agree, but feel that the pace helped the book. There were adventures aplenty as Taran and friends went to destroy the Black Cauldron from Arwan. My favorite character is Gurgi.

The Castle of Llyr It was nice that Eilonwy got her own story, in a way. However, she was captured for a great part of it. My only complaint of these books is that Alexander builds up suspense and then the heroes quickly defeat whatever is in their way by some simple act.

Taran Wanderer - This was my favorite book of the series. I think the lack of adventure and Taran's growth made this book a little different but still enjoyable. Taran's quest to find his parentage was interesting. I really thought the three witches would have been a lot more awful - coming at the end to take something from Taran for providing him with the information about the Mirror.

The High King - This is definitely the darkest book of them all, but it still wrapped up nicely. There is sadness throughout the book, and the ending is bittersweet. Again, after all the build up of how evil Arawn was, it took such a simple act to defeat him. I can't decide whether I like that type of culmination or not. This was still my second-favorite book in the series though.

I definitely recommend reading The Chronicles of Prydain.

Half Year Summary:

Total Books: 35
Total Pages: 10,632

Books crossed out from the TBR pile: 11

Genres:
Historical Fiction: 3
Non-fiction: 7
Fantasy: 10
Sci-Fi: 1
Graphic Novel: 4
Mystery: 2
YA: 11 (some overlap with fantasy)

I haven't read as many books as last year at this time, but now that I am settled I hope to read more books, especially from the TBR pile.

Currently Reading: The Stand, Ladies of Liberty, and A Thousand Splendid Suns. Put Anna Karenina on hold for a bit.

I thought A Thousand Splendid Suns was a terrific (if emotionally difficult) book.

I will be curious to see what you think of Ladies of Liberty.

Stasia, the beginning (Abigail Adams) of Ladies of Liberty was really interesting, however, I have stalled on Dolley Madison. Maybe visiting the Adams houses prior to starting sparked the interest in Abigail? I don't know. Otherwise, the book really shows that Cokie Roberts did her research. I think I was hoping it to be less like a text book and more "something else?" I am over half-way finished, so I am not giving up yet!

OK, I will check back to see how you like it once finished.

>106 jayde1599:: I'm a bit behind on threads, obviously.

I read Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance back in 1974. It kind of hooked me at the time and I've re-read it a few times since then. My perceptions of the book have changed a lot over the years...focusing less on the philosophy and more on the author's personal story. In some ways, I'm glad I got a copy then as I understand that his son was murdered some years later and newer editions of the book discuss this. I'm not sure I'd like that.

I haven't read his Lila; have you?

>131 TadAD:: Hi Tad, I haven't read Lila yet, but I hope to soon. The newer edition did talk about his son's murder. I found it a bit shocking after reading about their travels together. As he continued to discuss it, there felt like there was some closure about it.

#36: A Thousand Splendid Suns - Khaled Hosseini

Since there are already 484 reviews on LT, I will just give my brief thoughts:

Wow. I don't know what to say about this book other than I had to stay up late to finish it. I think I liked this book better than The Kite Runner. Hosseni tells the story of two women living in Afghanistan over a span of 30 years of war. He gives a vivid account of the hardships women face in the tribal areas and under Taliban rule. He even showed that women had more freedoms under the Communist rule. This book was very emotional as it showed a mother's love, life as an abused wife, and growing up in a war-torn city. Recommended.

#133: I read that one earlier this year and also thought it better than The Kite Runner. I am glad you liked the book, Jess!

I STILL haven't read The Kite Runner and A Thousand Splendid Suns - I must be about the only person in the world right now! Must do better...

Ellie, I am sure there are others out there... If you get to them some day, they are both great reads!

I have about 100 pages left in Stephen King's The Stand ...I am trying to finish it tonight...if my eyes don't cross before then

#135 Ellie, I haven't read them either, so you're not alone!

#37 The Stand by Stephen King - 1141 pages



This is such a long and verbose book! However, it is an excellent read. I think I am one of the last people on earth to read this book. I will try to sum it up and add my thoughts the best that I can.

Summary: This is a book about good and evil, dark and light, faith and destiny. In the uncut version, the summer of 1990 brings a Captain Tripp's superflu outbreak killing most of the country. After the flu has winded down groups of survivors come together to either follow Mother Abigail: a 108 year old African-American woman in Nebraska or Randall Flagg, the dark, mystical Walking Dude from everyone's nightmares.

The two sides begin to set up new societies - Flagg's camp in Las Vegas and Mother Abigail's camp in Boulder. After a time, the two sides are destined to meet and only one side will come out victorious.

King focuses on about 10 characters closely, although there are hundreds of characters mentioned in the book. We see the epidemic and subsequent reactions through their eyes:
Stu Redman - a factory worker from Arnette Texas, who becomes somewhat of a leader

Frannie Goldsmith - a pregnant college student from Ogunquit, Maine

Harold Lauder - a geeky 16 year old from Ogunquit, Maine in love with Frannie

Glen Bateman - a sociology professor from New Hampshire with something quick to say about everything

Nick Andros - a deaf-mute from Arkansas, who is insightful and a natural leader

Tom Cullen - a mentally challenged man from Oklahoma

Larry Underwood - a one-hit muscian from New York City

Lloyd Henreid - a slow thinking burglar

Donald Merwin Elbert - also known as Trashcan Man for lighting trash fires

Thoughts: I picked this book up because I read somewhere that the book is a major influence for the TV show LOST. Many of the themes throughout the book can be seen in the show and even the character driven plot is similar. I also read that King wanted The Stand to be a modern age Lord of the Rings, but I had a harder time imagining that connection. Overall, the book is spectacular from start to finish. The plot is engaging and I felt connected to the characters. I read the uncut version, which was published 10 years later and includes edited scenes from the previous work. I can see why this is such a popular book among Stephen King fans. I wouldn't exactly consider this a horror book as I didn't feel super scared reading it. King does provide ample description of the effects of the super flu and other gory murders/deaths, so I guess it is not for the faint of heart. Highly recommended

#138: Sorry Jess, but Stephen King does not do it for me, but I am glad you enjoyed the book!

Hi Jess! I only just read The Stand as well, last year, and really liked it. Then again, I tend to like just about every grim and morbid post-apocalyptic story...

#139> Stasia, Stephen King is not for everybody. I am just starting to really get into his books... but there are a few that I plan on avoiding (Cujo)! I can't read animals getting hurt & a rabid dog does not sound like a good time.

#140> Hi Ape, I like some grim and morbid stories.. I have King's Dark Tower series, Lisey's Story, Duma Key, and Nightmares and Dreamscapes on my shelf waiting to be read.

But the books I have going on right now:

Just finished The Art of War - Sun Tzo. I will get a review up soon.
I am half-way through Othello, still plugging away at Ladies of Liberty and plan to start The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown. I am a little worried that I may not like that one after reading so many negative reviews, but it is the next book on the list to be read...so I will give it a try.

Oh yeah, and I have to read Sammy and His Behavior Problems before school starts back up in August.

I cannot wait to see your review of The Art of War. It has been in the BlackHole forever.

I read the "shorter version" of The Stand some years back. I sometimes wonder if I should get hold of the complete edition and read it to compare, but I'm not sure I remember enough to make a comparison.

(Anyone got "Cliff Notes" for the differences?) ;)

Have you tried Feist's Faerie Tale?

#144> I haven't read Faerie Tale, is it a good book?

#38: The Art of War - Sun Tzu


This book has been on my wishlist for a long while, mostly because I think I ought to read it because it is located in the "classics" section of the book shop. I don't know if I would really consider it a "classic." The Art of War is more of an instructional manual. The book has been used in trainings from the military to corporate. In fact, my particular copy came from DH's business law class. There are some very insightful strategic tips in the book. The main idea that I got out of the book is, the best way to win a war is to not be in a war.

My one complaint would be the repetition of Master Sun's philosophical views by 11 other interpreters throughout the centuries. I understand that they were adding their own interpretation, and in some cases, I enjoyed their thoughts more, but reading this way became tedious. As I was reading, I kept picturing in my head: 12 old philosophers sitting around a room discussing military strategy, smoking pipes, and having a great discussion.

Overall - recommended, but be in the right frame of mind.

#145: I definitely need to move The Art of War up in the BlackHole. Thanks, Jess!

#39: The Lost Symbol - Dan Brown


Okay, I didn't hate this book, but it was not my favorite book either. I guess Dan Brown found his formula on how to write books: have some crazy person do some outrageous action, Robert Langdon gets contacted and somehow entangled in the mystery, Langdon chases/is chased around a well known city, throw in a couple symbols, mysteries, and secret society lore and then he has a best seller with a movie deal. The plot outline hardly differed from Da Vinci Code and Angels and Demons, which is what I did not like about the book. But, the more I thought about it, after the success of The Da Vinci Code, can Brown really alter a Robert Langdon story? If he did I think he would get back lash from all of his supporters...I don't know.

Pros: symbols, secret society lore, quick read, set in DC (one of my favorite cities)
Cons: The Ending! same plot, short chapters, the suspense really trickled, characters
Recommendation: don't go out and buy it (mine was a gift, thank goodness), but I would feel bad saying don't read it. So, if a copy lands in your possession, give it a try and come to your own conclusion

>145 jayde1599:: I enjoyed Faerie Tale. It's not quite as fresh as it was when it first came out (late 80s). I mentioned it because, for some reason, it occupies some similar space in my mind as King.

The Art of War is an interesting book. Like The Prince, there's an underlying pragmatism and ruthlessness that's interesting to read.

I can't abide Mr. Brown based upon two tries so far, so I haven't tried The Lost Symbol.

Thanks for the honest review of the Dan Brown. I think you've hit the nail on the head as far as the "sameness" of his various books.

I just don't think he's my particular cup of tea.

#148: I will have to check out Fairie Tale

#149: I don't think I will be picking up another Dan Brown book if he comes out with more..

Book # 40: Othello - William Shakespeare

Shakespeare is one aspect of being a reader that I wish I enjoyed more. For some reason, I just don't get Shakespeare! I originally thought that I couldn't get into him was because it was required for school, but I have been trying a few plays in recent years and I just can not wrap my head around him.

I am not going to review Othello, because even though I enjoyed it, I can not write a review that will do it justice. Luxx had a great review of Othello awhile back on her thread.

Of the Shakespeare that I have read on my own, Othello is by far my favorite.

My reading has started to slow down again because we adopted a 16 month old husky/shepherd mix:

">

Currently reading: Empire Falls, and the graphic novel version of The Stand, and plugging away at Ladies of Liberty.

What a cutie!! What did you name him/her? The paws look petite so maybe he/she won't grow too big.

Oh my!! I love those Husky eyes! And it doesn't look like those ears miss much.

#152: Jess, you need to check out Ape's (Stephen's thread). His dog, Shyanne, has those eyes too!

#152 My, what a beauty! Looks very intelligent, too!

Terri: intelligent, that's it! There was something about the dog, but I couldn't put my finger on it. He/she seems very...aware. Shyanne is a bit of a dingbat, I'm afraid. :)

#153: We named her Denali for the husky part...but we are noticing more of the German Shepherd characteristics in her. She will only be about 40 pounds - just the right size!

#156-157: She is intelligent! However, intelligence creates mischief - I am having a difficult time trying to keep her out of the cat's food dish. Somehow she has managed to sneak into all of the places I have left the dish for the cat. She will look at me and then slink over pretending I don't see her, then look at me again as if to ask "What are you going to do?" Otherwise, she has been a delight!

What a sweet pooch!

She is intelligent! However, intelligence creates mischief

LOL! That seems to be true with dogs -- and with children!

Just finished Empire Falls this weekend. I used to work 10 minutes away from where they shot the HBO movie at the Empire Grille in Skowhegan, Maine. I never stopped in, but I could picture Skowhegan while reading the book, even though the town in the book is fictional. The Grille shut down this year because of the economy.

I enjoyed the book, and I will post a review shortly.

#161: I have had Empire Falls in the BlackHole for a while now. I look forward to your thoughts on it, Jess.

Book 41 Empire Falls - Richard Russo



Synopsis: The Empire Grille is set in a fictional Maine mill town of Empire Falls. Miles Roby has been working at the Grille for 20 years despite his mother's warnings to go to college and get out of town. Miles isn't sure why he is still in town. The main reason is his daughter Tick, but there is also his pending divorce, his "sempty" year old father, and his boss Francine Whiting, who owns most of Empire Falls.

I thought the story started out slow. There is a lot of detail to take in, and not much action. However, midway the story really begins to pick up speed. Russo does a magnificent job of depicting a blue-collar, rundown Maine town. He develops the characters so that they start to feel like family. The suspense finally builds to a conclusion that left me feeling fulfilled. This is my first Richard Russo book and it will not be my last.

Recommeded

Book 42: The Stand: Captain Trips - Robert Aguirre-Sacasa/Stephen King



This is the first installment of five graphic novels that are based on Stephen King's novel The Stand. For those who do not wish to read over 1000 pages, this follows the story nicely and the graphics are decent. Looking forward picking up the rest of the series.

#163: Yep, I definitely need to get to that one!

Book 43: The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo - Stieg Larsson



Thoughts: This book has been on my wishlist for a year and I had been putting off buying it. I had read the mixed reviews, but I try to stay away from the current book fads.... A couple of my friends just read it and were gushing...so I finally jumped on the bandwagon. I thought the book started out slow and kind of dull with the financial discussion. I was thinking to myself, "This is what everyone is talking about?" Once the book started getting into the mystery of the disappearance, I really started to enjoy it. My stomach turned reading some of the more detailed abuse scenes, however they were not horrendous enough to turn me away from the book. I think I am officially a fan and will be picking up the 2nd and 3rd books before I go away on vacation in a few weeks. Unfortunately this does not help my reading off my TBR shelves goal. Overall 4 stars

Book 44: Ladies of Liberty - Cokie Roberts



Synopis: Cokie Roberts picks up where she left off in her previous book Founding Mothers, which I did not read. Using surviving correspondence letters, she weaves biographies of the women who helped shape our nation, beginning with Abigail Adams. She provides an enormous amount of detail which gets jumbled up with her habit of jumping from discussing one woman to another without a clean transition. Roberts also jumped time periods - for example she would detail one woman's life achievements until that woman's death and then go back to the year she was discussing. This led to confusion and periods of dullness in an otherwise informative book.

#1666: Glad you are on the bandwagon, Jess!

Book # 45: The Lost World - Michael Crichton



Hmm...Well I saw the movies, I have not yet read Jurassic Park, and this one was on my shelf so I started here. It was okay. Nothing to get totally excited about. The plot line was kind of silly and I don't really remember some of the subplots in the movie...but it has been some time since I have seen it. My DH said Jurassic Park is much better, so I am looking forward to reading that.

So I thought a fun way to tackle my TBR shelves would be to take the collection and view it by most members on LT and start from there.

I have a few sequels that I do no have the first books that I will skip until I can get them (the Artemis Fowl series and some Tolkien - trying to find where we put The Silmarillion).

I kind of cheated and bought a few books this past week that I slipped onto the shelves without my husband noticing (I hope). So I am starting the "No More Buying Books Until I Clear Shelf Space" personal challenge today.

Here is the top 10 list:
1. The Girl Who Played with Fire - one of the recently purchased - slipped in books that will be great on my camping trip next weekend
2. Daughter of Fortune - began last night
3. Redwall
4. The Mermaid Chair
5. Nightmares and Dreamscapes - not really looking forward to this one, but someone gave it to me to clear their house of "Stephen King bad Karma"
6. Lisey's Story
7. The Amulet of Samarkand
8. A Spot of Bother
9. Duma Key
10. I am America (And So Can You)

So it looks like I have a lot of Stephen King up my alley with some fantasy and humor thrown in.

Book 46: Daughter of Fortune - Isabel Allende (399 pages)



Well I am still thinking about this book. It had a slow beginning. Allende introduces many characters with detailed backstories, so the plot takes a while to get going. Set in Chile, the book is about Eliza Sommers found on the doorstep of siblings Rose and Jeremy Sommers as an infant. When Eliza is 16, she falls in love with Joaquin,a poor clerk and discovers she is pregnant, but not after Joaquin has run away to America to join the gold rush. Eliza chases after him accompanied by a Chinese doctor, Tao Chi'en.

Once Eliza set off for California, the book really started to pick up pace and I began to enjoy it. However, it took about 230 pages of multiple-person back stories to lead up to that point. It wasn't that the backstories were bad, they just felt monotonous. Especially with how quickly the conclusion of the book went, I wish that the beginning was like that too. The only other Allende book that I have read is Zorro, which was also intricately written, so I guess that this is just her writing style. I think I liked Daughter of Fortune enough to try other works by Isabel Allende.

Glad you mostly liked Daughter of Fortune. The intricate backstory is definatly a link in Allende's writing. I love Allende's books, so I hope you read more. Portrait in Sepia was the first book I read by her and it got me hooked. Though I do not think that book is as popular as her others. I really liked Zorro too. I loved watching the old Zorro reruns when I was a kid, so I was really excited to read the book.

I'll be curious to learn your impressions of A Spot of Brother. I obtained this at a local library sale and it sits on my shelf waiting to be read.

Hello to you. I'm sorry to be so far behind on your thread. I always enjoy visiting here.

One of these days I will get to more Allende. Thus far, the only book of hers I have read is nonfiction.

172 & 174: Jennifer & Stasia, I hope to get to more Allende one of these days too!

173: Thanks for stopping by Linda! I am always way behind on the threads as well. I am going to Acadia National Park tomorrow for a long weekend without my computer/phone, etc... so I will be REALLY behind on the threads when I get back. I am taking The Girl Who Played with Fire though...so I hope to get some good reading in on my vacation before school starts.

#175: Have a lovely long weekend, Jess!

Oh, I do hope you're having a great time over your long weekend. I loved Acadia, it is so lovely.

Acadia was great! We did a lot of hiking. It is such a beautiful place. Here is a picture of us at the top of a trail on the Schoodic Peninsula.

Now that school is starting, my reading is beginning to slow down. I read 2 books this past week (1 being a required reading for an inservice):

Book 47: Sammy and His Behavior Problems
Our school has adopted RTI (response to intervention) which is a method of intervention for students with various learning difficulties. This book follows Sammy a boy with ADHD throughout his third grade year. His teacher tries many positive strategies to support Sammy in a safe learning environment. It was actually a good book for required summer reading.

Book 48: The Girl Who Played With Fire - Stieg Larsson

This book was a lot more entertaining than Sammy. I continue to be hooked into the series. The book kept me engaged and awake into the wee hours of the night trying to finish it. My only complaint with this book is the ending. I don't want to give away any spoilers but I felt it was quite far-fetched, even for the awesome Lisbeth Salandar!

Love the pic. While you two seem quite happy, I think Denali looks like she's enjoying it the most!! :)

Denali had a blast! She was so tired after a day of hiking that she figured out how to unzip the tent and put herself to bed.

Acadia is incredibly beautiful. We visited there a few years ago. The wind was whipping around and the air was crisp and clear.

#181: LOL! I am glad you and yours had a great time on the trip.

Nice photo. I'm glad you all had a great time!

Book 49. Born to Run - Christopher McDougall



I found this an interesting book about the sport of ultra running. McDougall is a writer for various magazines and this is clearly demonstrated in the book. It appears as if he took many of his articles and spliced them together with the common theme of what makes the ultimate runner. Although the book felt disjointed at times, it was entertaining enough not to be bothersome. I am not a runner and I found the topic of the hidden tribe of Mexican Tarahumara indians, barefoot running, and the sport of ultra running (running up to 100 miles at a time) piqued my interest. Some of the mini-topics discussed that I enjoyed were eating chia seeds (anyone have a chia pet?), vibram five fingers shoes, and running an antelope down to eat it. I recommend this book.

#185: I am not a runner in any way, shape or form, but have had that one in the BlackHole for a while now due to Sandy's review of it earlier this year. I will have to get to it soon!

Hi Stasia... I'm not really a runner either, but it was an interesting book all the same.

We are heading out to Glacier National Park tomorrow so my reading is going to slow down again. I am taking The Memory Keeper's Daughter for the flight. I have heard mixed results about it, so I hope I like it.

#187: I enjoyed The Memory Keeper's Daughter, Jess, so I hope you do as well.

Have a great trip!

Glacier was a great time. We did a lot of hiking. We saw a moose, Grizzly bear and cubs, mountain goat, golden eagle, and bighorn sheep that just looked like dots on a rock wall to me. Here's a picture:

Wow...that's stunning!

Neat!

Gorgeous!

Despite not reading during my stay in Glacier, I did finish a book on the long flight and I bought 2 books there.

Book 50: The Memory Keeper's Daughter - Kim Edwards



Synopsis: During a winter storm in 1964, Dr. David Henry delivers his twins - a healthy boy and a girl with Down Syndrome. Wanting to spare his wife the grief of possibly losing a daughter early, he hands baby Phoebe to his nurse, Caroline Gill. He gives her instructions to deliver Phoebe to a nearby institution - a common practice of the time. Caroline can not let herself leave the baby at the cold, smelly, and sterile institution, so she moves to Pittsburgh to raise the baby herself. David's secret begins to tear his family apart. His wife suffers from the loss of the baby she never got to meet. His son suffers from the wall David built around himself. David, still sure that he made the right decision, hides behind photography.

I wasn't sure how I would like this book. The subject matter is one that is close to my heart. My aunt Joni was born in 1956 with Down Syndrome. The doctor convinced my grandparents that she would be best suited at an institution. They were able to place her in one that was "less controversial" than others in the state. I grew up with Joni visiting on holidays and her birthday. My mom remembers visiting the institution when she was young. When the push to get rid of institutions happened, Joni was placed in a group home for young adults with special needs. Her years in the institution left her with some behaviors that she will always live with: she is scared of the dark and of loud noises, she is very possessive of her belongings - counting and organizing to make sure everything is there. Things were not all bad for her though. She learned adapted living skills, she can order coffee or food from a restaurant, but needs help with counting out the change. She can cook simple meals for herself and she still has a job that she enjoys. She loves the staff at her group home as they are part of her family. I wonder how her life would have been different if she had been able to grow up at home and attend school? I know that my life has been more enriched by spending time with my aunt.

So, coming into this book with strong feelings for the subject somewhat altered my view of the book. I really disliked David, even though I understand his motivation for what he did. I also feel like held a lot of the burden of his secret as "punishment." The prose of the book felt slow and repetitive to me. That became only a minor annoyance, as I overall enjoyed The Memory Keeper's Daughter.

Book 51: It Happened in Glacier National Park - Vince Moravek



This is one of the books that I picked up while visiting Glacier. It is a book of short stories depicting the history of the park. The book starts out with a Native American tale about how the mountains moved. Stories include the discovery and miss of Marias Pass through the Continental Divide, the return of the Glacier Reds - the restored red touring cars of the 1930's, and building the Going-to-the-Sun road. Bears are a common theme in the book and there is a story of two Grizzly attacks on the same night. I got a feeling of the park's evolution as the rangers and visitors learn the best way to interact with the natural landscape and wilderness. It is an interesting book, even for those who have not visited the park.

Book 51: Seasonal Disorder: Ranger Tales From Glacier National Park - Pat Hagan



We took a ranger-led hike through the Two Medicines part of the park. The ranger was a knowledgeable and humorous guide. This was my partner's favorite part of the trip, so when we found out the ranger had written a book - we bought it.

This is another collection of short stories set in Glacier, this time told by Pat Hagan. In the collection, we learn that Hagan grew up in Montana, but only visited the park as a child on family camping trips. When he was 6 years old he and his sister had an unfortunate encounter with a skunk by their tent. Even as a child, he said he knew that Glacier was for him. Hagan puts a witty spin on how he interprets the amazing wilderness around him. He and his wife stay in a 1900's cabin in a remote section of the park with a picky toddler. He discusses some of the interesting characters he meets and how only aliens could come up with stupid questions, such as, "At what altitude does a deer become an elk?" One of the funniest stories describes an encounter with bear spray. I highly recommend this book to anyone who has experienced a visit to a national park, not just Glacier.

What a beautiful picture, Jess! I do not think I would every leave.

#189 - What a beautiful picture! Wow! It makes me want to get in the car and start driving.

And I'm glad to hear that you liked The Memory Keeper's Daughter. My mom loaned it to me a while back, and I haven't read it yet. I'd heard mixed reviews, so it is nice to go into it with some positive comments in mind.

ditto what Stasia said. That is an incredible photo.

Reading books about the park reminds me that when I visited Yellowstone last year, I did the same. I was so in awe of the place that I read a lot about the park when I returned.

By the way, have you seen Ken Burn's series on the National parks of America?

Stasia - I am still thinking about Glacier, it was much more relaxing than the craziness of a start to the school year.

Amy - Definitely give The Memory Keeper's Daughter a try. I had heard mixed reviews too. The text was a bit dry at times, but the plot was interesting.

Linda - Yellowstone is on our list of parks to visit. I remember your reviews & think I added a book to my list. Besides reading, visiting National Parks is our hobby. We have been to 70 out of 392 units in the National Park system together....so we have a ways to go. Portland, ME was a stop on Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan's National Parks tour to promote the series and we enjoyed the show. I caught most of the series and was very envious of their time spent in the parks. They really are America's treasures.

Book 52: Glacier National Park - Becky Lomax



I don't usually count the guide books that I buy towards my reading goals, but I read this one all the way through for my trip to Glacier. We relied on this to tell us about the hikes and things to do in the area. I really like the moon handbook travel series. It covers everything without feeling overwhelming.

Book 53: Maps and Shadows - Krysia Jopek



Synopsis: Maps and Shadows tells the story of the Soviet deportation of Polish civilians to the Siberian labor camps during World War Two. The story is told in a multi-person view of the Jopek family. Daughter Helcia is 12 when the story begins. She writes poetry and wants to be a teacher. Elder son Henryk is 11 and younger son Jozef is 4. The story follows the family to Siberia and then across continents when they are released from the labor camps and separated by war.

I enjoyed this alternate view of World War II history, one that is rarely told. The book is wonderfully written and the characters are well developed. I felt for the family as they endured harsh winters, humiliating travels, sickness, and separation. Yet, somehow they are able to tell their story - of all that they had lost and the closeness that they maintained.

Highly recommeded

Book 55: Redwall - Brian Jacques



Redwall is the children's fantasy book following the mice of Redwall Abbey and the woodland creatures as they defend the abbey against Cluny the Scourge. I felt this book began slowly, but it quickly gained my interest as the plot moved along. Matthias mouse is an interesting hero. He shows quite the temper, yet can be quite understanding of those around him. I can see how this series has become a favorite in fantasy for early readers. If I come across other books in the series, I will give them a try.

I'm supposed to be getting Maps and Shadows as an ER book but it hasn't arrived yet. :( I'm looking forward to it.

Book 56: The Mermaid Chair - Sue Monk Kidd



I felt that this book was okay...but not really my cup of tea. I just could not like the protagonist, Jessie. The story has Jessie going home to an island off the coast of South Carolina after her mother cuts off one of her fingers. Jessie falls for a monk, Brother Thomas, and questions her life and marriage to husband, Hugh. I think that this story could have been a lot better had the author explored more of Jessie's relationship with her mother and women on the island, rather than her relationship with Brother Thomas. Not really recommended

Maps and Shadows looks right up my alley. Thanks for the recommendation, Jess. I will look for that one!

203 & 205: Maps and Shadows was an early reviewer book for me too. It will be worth the wait. I have never read anything on the Polish deportation or the Siberian labor camps before.

Currently in a book funk... Trying to read Lisey's Story, but it isn't going well.

The good news is that I snagged Dewey's Nine Lives for the September ER. I love this new algorithm. It was the only book I requested and my 4th this year. (After 0 books for the last year).

Congrats on getting another ER book, Jess!

Book #57 Beowulf: The Script Book - Neil Gaiman & Roger Avary



The touchtones are a little wonky and the book I have is the graphic novel, not the script book - but it shows up as the script book. No where in the book that I own, do Roger Avery & Neil Gaiman talk about how they came up with the script. Chris Ryall & Gabriel Rodriguez are the ones who created the comic based on the Gaiman/Avery script. Just trying to credit the right people.

So, to try to liven up a dull reading week, I picked up a new graphic novel based on the story of Beoulf. Beowulf was one of my favorite books read in HS english classes. This graphic novel is actually based on the 2007 movie screenplay. I didn't really care for that movie, but I did enjoy this book. The illustrations are well done and the describes the tragic tale of the hero, Beowulf.

In the 6th century, a monster named Grendel is wrecking havoc on Hrothgar's kingdom. The brave and somewhat arrogant Beowulf comes to destroy Grendel and win fame and fortune. He must not only face Grendel, but also Grendel's mother, who in her own way is much more powerful.

I am finding this year that graphic novels are helping me get through some of the long, dense reads that I have lined up. I also find it kind of funny that my DH has issues with me bringing home new books, but he will invite me to the comic book store with him and is okay if I pick out a graphic novel... Go figure.

#209: I am going to be reading Seamus Heaney's translation of Beowulf next year. I will have to check and see if the library has that one too. Thanks for the recommendation, Jess!

Hi Stasia, I hope you enjoy the Heaney translation - it is my favorite.

Book 58: Lisey's Story - Stephen King - 513 pages



Hmmm... Lisey's Story is not your typical Stephen King book. It has many qualities of King - verbose passages, repetition of themes, made up language, and a bit of suspense. This book is not scary, and in a way may reflect the author's life and imagination.

The story follows Lisey Landon, widow of horror novelist Scott Landon. Scott was a complicated man with an difficult past, however Scott and Lisey together were great. Throughout their marriage, Lisey learned of a place Scott went to when he was sad, depressed, scared, or needed healing. This place was wonderful and frightening. Two years after Scott's death, Lisey must face his demons to get rid of a psychotic Scott Landon fanatic who wants her husbands papers and manuscripts.

There were many slow parts in the book, especially in the beginning as the reader learned the special language that Scott and Lisey shared. The plot also jumped around from past to present as Lisey remembered and thought about different periods of their relationship. This made it difficult to follow at times. I did not dislike the book though. When in the present, there was some suspense and I enjoyed Lisey's relationship with her sisters and Scott.

Book 59: Dewey's Nine Lives - Vicki Myron



I am kind of glad that this was an early reviewer book....

Dewey's Nine Lives is a collection of 9 stories of cats and their owners who were inspired to share their bonds after hearing Dewey's story. Three of the stories involve Dewey. The other 6 were selected by Vicki Myron and her co-writer because they shared that "Dewey Magic" quality.

I enjoyed the first Dewey book much more than this one. Dewey's Nine Lives, although heart-warming in its own way, reminds me of Chicken Soup for the Cat's Soul. Myron tried to add a spin to the tales by attempting to relate her relationship with Dewey with the cats and owners of the other stories. I found this most annoying. I think the book would have made more of an impact on me if it was just their own individual stories - because they were endearing. There is something special between the love of a pet and their owner, especially if the person saves the pet's life. This is clearly established throughout all 9 stories. Some of the stories made me cry, some made me laugh (picture a cat on a motorcycle), some made me think of my cat...they all fit the Dewey legacy.

#213: I think I will give that one a pass and just stick with the original :)

reminds me of Chicken Soup for the Cat's Soul.

:-) Love that description!

I used to like the Chicken Soup books when I was a kid, but I think I really preferred the first Dewey book over this version.

Up next on my reading adventure to try to clear my TBR pile:

I am currently reading The Amulet of Samarkand, & Nightmares and Dreamscapes.

I would like to try to get to Olive Kitteridge soon because Elizabeth Strout is coming to Portland for a reading and signing that I am interested in attending.

#216: Olive Kitteridge is very good. I hope you enjoy it when you get a chance to read it, Jess. Cool about Strout heading your direction!

#216 I have The Amulet of Samarkand on one of my towering TBR piles. Hope you enjoy it!

Book #60: The Amulet of Samarkand - Jonathan Stroud


This book took awhile before I really got into it. However, I soon became engrossed in the magical tale following a young magician named, Nathaniel and the djinni he conjures up named, Bartimaeus.

Book #61: Olive Kitteridge - Elizabeth Strout


This is another book that I just did not enjoy the beginning. Again, midway through, something clicked and I thoroughly enjoyed the short stories surrounding Mrs. Kitteridge. The book wasn't as I expected it to be, which is why I had difficulty with the initial stories. I think what really drew me into the book was the writing style.

Book #62. The Picture of Dorian Gray - Oscar Wilde


I really enjoyed this book. I have not enjoyed all of the Victorian literature that I have read in the past, but this book was just dark and gothic enough for me. I enjoyed the philosophical aspects of the book, especially Lord Henry's ideas.

I've been meaning to stop by and say hello- and what a massive thread!

#219: Good reading there, Jess! I will have to take a look at the Stroud books.

I had to put Olive Kitteridge down because I couldn't get into it, but your review gives me hope!

I read Olive Kitteridge and The Picture of Dorian Gray fairly recently. I loved them both. Olive came alive for me and still pops up in my imagination once in a while.

I like the goals you set for this year. (Congrats on War and Peace, wow!) I need to lurk less too, so I thought I'd say hello.

Glad you liked The Picture of Dorian Gray. I really need to add some Oscar Wilde to my reading. He's one of those authors you know so much about, but never actually pick up, you know? :)

Hi Everyone...I've been popping in here less frequently due to work. I hope it slows down soon!

220> Hi Leperdbunny, thanks for stopping by!

221> Stasia, if you come across the Stroud books, give them a try. It's a different type of magic - more alchemy and "old" magic as compared to say, Harry Potter. I would like to find the rest of the trilogy. The book got better as the story moved along.

222> Andrea - the first part of Olive irked me too and I almost put it down. As you get to know Olive, the book gets more interesting.

223> Olive popped into my head recently as I was driving up the Maine coast. I really liked The Picture of Dorian Gray and wish I hadn't waited so long to read it.

224> Hi Marie, thanks for delurking and saying hi. I still need to get better at this goal. I find that I am playing catch up to all the threads this year that when I want to join a discussion, it has already passed!

Up next on the book front: I am reading A Spot of Bother and have kind of stalled - what a depressing book! I hope it gets better. I took out Nightmares and Dreamscapes for Halloween, but I have been a chicken and haven't made it through the first short story yet! I don't know where I am headed on the TBR pile after that!!

#225: My local library has the entire trilogy I think, Jess, so I will be checking them out some time. Not sure when though. I appreciate the additional input.

Book 63: a spot of bother - Mark Haddon



I don't think I can give this book a proper review because it just didn't sit with me very well. I thought it was very depressing. The book follows the family of George Hall as he begins to lose his mind after finding a lesion on his hip. I loved Haddon's other book, but this one was not for me. :(

#227: Sorry you did not enjoy that one more, Jess! I hope you like your next book better.

Thanks Stasia. I went for some brain-candy next.

Book 64: Anita Blake Vampire Hunter- Laurell K. Hamilton



This is the graphic novel version of the book by Laurell K. Hamilton. Anita is an animator - one who raises zombies. She also hunts vampires for the police force. Her nickname in the vampire world is The Executioner. Master vampires are being slaughtered, so the vampires decide to hire Anita to find out who is doing the damage.

While I enjoyed the storyline, I didn't care for the illustrations as much. The layout of the comic also made it difficult to follow. At times it felt like I was skipping pages. Despite that, it was great brain-candy and I look forward to reading the rest in the series, as well as checking out the original books.

#229: I am glad the BC worked for you!

Book 65: Dancing with Max - Emily Colson



So I am usually hesitant to pick up books about autism. Especially ones where the parent says that their child is cured by being on a diet or getting a pet. I am even more leery about picking up Christian literature. So when this book was on the Early Reviewers list last month, I almost didn't request it. I am glad that I went with my instinct, as this will be one of my memorable reads this year.

This book is about Emily Colson, daughter of Chuck Colson. (I had know idea who Chuck Colson was, other than his name was linked to Watergate). When her husband walked out after Max was born, Emily became a single mom of a son who would later be diagnosed with autism. Emily had to fight to get her son services, keep him in public school, and hold her tongue when society was not so kind. As an artist, Emily used pictures to break into her son's world. He developed language and was able to tell his mom his ideas and thoughts during their "Picture Talks." Things were not always so successful. Max continued to have tantrums when he was unable to cope with the world around him and by the time he was a pre-teen, his public school was looking to put him into a boot-camp style school for children with autism. Emily fought this, and with luck or God's help, Max was able to attend Melmark - a multi-service school for students with autism. Max continued to grow and learn new skills on how to navigate the world around him.

Included in the title is the phrase "A mother and son who broke free," which to me sounds like another child cured from autism. However, unlike many other books, this is not the basis for Emily and Max's story. I liked that Emily talked about her darkest days, including sleepless nights, tantrums that last hours, and getting the nerve to ask for help in a store when her 170 pound son won't get off the floor. She does talk about how her faith helped her through some of these bleak times, but it did not sound "preachy" to me. Faith and Max helped her see that he does have a lot to offer the world. Max inspired Emily to "get up and live," and not be constricted by life's challenges.

I highly recommend this book.
PS: The publisher asked to include the link to the book, and since I enjoyed the book, here it is: http://zndr.vn/d9Ryc2

#231: Thanks for the recommendation of that one, Jess. I will check to see if my sister-in-law has read it. Her youngest son is autistic.

I was having trouble loading my thread, so I started a new one. It can be found here
Hopefully I did that right

Round two will have less images - maybe that will help?