Member: DubaiReader

My head hurts just thinking about all those books - let alone reading them all at once! I don't know how you keep them all intact... I looked up Bog Child (wanted to work out the title) and it sounds like a very unusual take on a difficult subject. Hope you enjoy it. It was 40C here today, so my head hurts with the heat anyway.

I get my profile comments sent to my email too - you can turn it off, but you still get the yellow strip either way - so I don't miss any. I like knowing I have one but I usually read them here.
That was the reason for my calling out - I was hoping like crazy that you had found something and was caught up in packing! I have everything "croffed" for you.

I am finally back at work tomorrow - eeeek! Having that training course all last week made my time off seem a lot longer - rude awakening about to happen I foresee. :(

I am nearly finished my latest book and I just don't know what to read next...I'll have to go hunting through my shelves now - virtually - I need to make sure I have a book to read on first day back, otherwise I'll go mad (or yes, thank you for pointing that out - madder than what I already am!)

Good luck - positive thoughts flowing your way...
~ L.

posted by Lman at 5:18 am (EST) on Nov 22, 2009

Yu huuuuuuuuuu!

What's up? What's happening?

posted by Lman at 9:05 pm (EST) on Nov 21, 2009

Hope I do too.

posted by Lman at 3:58 pm (EST) on Nov 8, 2009

Hi MA; another yellow strip. :) They ARE nice.

I'll have you know I mooched a really nice copy of Peony in Love (though I was put off a bit by your comments, but I didn't mind as it was a mooch) but I bought a copy of Snowflower because of your review - and after reading Shanghai Girls I am very glad I did, as I like her writing; well I liked that book, though not the ending. Apparently there is a sequel in the works?? I am not sure why I haven't gotten around to her book (Snowflower) I originally wanted to read first, but then again, that is quite normal for me these days! You have reminded me so I will put it on my list. I am also collecting her fantasy series (just have the last one to try to mooch), so it is ALL down to you. :)
And that is why I have started to seriously look at some historical fiction - because every one I read I like a lot! I've mooched or picked up bargain copies of lots of Tracy Chevalier's books too, and I am looking forward to them as well - again down to you.

Despite trying not to sound too cryptic, I may have a way of getting you a copy of SG. I have sent a surprise package to Britta, which includes this book. Until she gets it next week I can't ask her about a swap - but as I said, leave it with me, I have another plan. I know you have enough to keep you going at the moment and don't forget to let me know when you are considering Girl in a Blue Dress - I am looking forward to that one too. You haven't even put that into LT yet have you? Gosh I have a lot of good books awaiting... such a good feeling!

I wish you good hunting - it must be a bit of a pain in actuality. And one you like; hadn't actually thought of me, but now you have mentioned it....!

~L.

posted by Lman at 8:39 am (EST) on Nov 7, 2009

Hi MA,
Not sure what is going on - I may not have pressed 'submit' - and then with my last message you three identical appeared on the page all of a sudden, as I kept pressing, and nothing showed and then they ALL did! Blech! Your list may have looked weird until the HTML sorted itself...who knows! It's a bleedig computer, and to quote a British TV show: Computer says No and when they say no; they don't budge!

I have been trying to ignore you (but you noticed) about Shanghai Girls, as I promised it (before you displayed an interest) to my friend in the States. :( And, ever since then, I have been looking for another copy for you...so leave it with me please. I may be able to get my friend to send it to you when she has finished??? How's that? Just don't buy a copy please - yet!

Thanks for the list - I am spitting as I recently acquired the Benjamin Black - :p~. That is the only one I know, or read. Is there one in there you would recommend? I haven't a clue about the others.

How's things? Have you been busy? I see some new books up there - the Sarah Dunant one looks interesting!
Happy hunting..and reading,
~Lyn

posted by Lman at 8:07 pm (EST) on Nov 5, 2009

Whoa! I left a message here yesterday, but I must not have pushed the 'post comment' button! Or did it get deleted? No matter...

What I said was...what you said - but I wasn't going to say it! heh. I don't think so anyway, especially after China! Good luck looking!

I have now mooched the first Laura Lippman book in that series you mentioned! *sigh* I will see if I like them that way, before getting the gazillion others. *even bigger sigh* I also said I was looking forwrd to your list as I really need some more books! Actually I am being a good girl and offering books (ones I have had for ages too) that I am never going to read again, up for mooching. Get up off the floor! I've even posted some. No! Don't fall down again - you'll hurt yourself! :0

Actually, now with collections I feel much more inclined to make more room on my shelf, and as I keep acquiring books at a much faster rate now - it is just as well. :)

Just popped by to say hello and leave you a little yellow stripe - if you read my message it is nicely repeated; if I didn't send it well, you get to read a new one!
~Lyn

posted by Lman at 7:15 am (EST) on Nov 3, 2009

Hello,
I would love the Mankell. Is it a big heavy edition though? I still want it; I am concerned at the postage cost is all.

The sale is still on???!!! How wonderful! How dangerous! How are you? I'm assuming all is back to 'normal' on the home front: you are overun with kids and cats; you still can't get into your DR account on your computer, and you are spending way too much money at book sales. Bliss!!

And your images here are getting bigger...? Or is it just my eyes? Hmm...maybe you have added some more. It looks very nice, whichever.

Thank you for thinkng of me...
~Lyn

posted by Lman at 6:44 am (EST) on Oct 31, 2009

Are you back?

I'm going to a book fair tomorrow - should I just print your BM wish-list? Any in particular you'd like? You have 12 hours to tell me... :)
L.

posted by Lman at 6:59 am (EST) on Oct 22, 2009

Part 2: now at home and checking the previous post...
I'm not sure if you got all the code for the image, as this site truncates a link so I am writing the rest here: after the '44' you need this 9338.01._SX140_SY225_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg - in other words copy what is written below
http"//images.amazon.com/.....44 and then add on the end 9338.01._SX140_SY225_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg

The other (correct) way (in IE browser) is to right click on the image (as you usually do) and from that pull-down menu select 'properties'. In there you will see a URL with http.... - copy and paste that into the code where you usually add the image location; and the correct image will then be added in. If you are not using Internet Explorer then you need to tell me what browser you are using and I will look at it.

Sorry - I can't help with iPods. I am considering buying an iPhone so will need to learn...you can help me then, :)

Ok - now I've solved (hopefully ) your wrong image location and re-read your message, I hope you have a lovely time! I have one more day at work, tomorrow, and then I have holidays for four weeks! So, I will be available to help more; and be more communicative. I have had so much to do before tomorrow that I need a rest!

Hope it all works,
~Lyn

posted by Lman at 8:18 am (EST) on Oct 14, 2009

Hi MA,
You are probably using the IE browser and you have to go to 'properties' after you right click on the image and then copy the URL; Firefox is much kinder as they give you the menu to copy the image location directly. Try copying this: http://images.amazon.com/images/P/033044... into your code for the image and it should work. I have IE6 at work so I found it for you.

As sadi I'm at work now...I wondered where you were. Clever. Very clever! Hope you have a nice week. Let me know if the image still doesn't work.
More later...
~Lyn

posted by Lman at 3:16 am (EST) on Oct 14, 2009

I'm so sorry, had midterm exams and wasn't able to write sooner! I didn't enjoy Secret Life of Bees, it didn't feel genuine to me! And yes, I'm planning on filling up my library soon! Hope things are going well! :)

posted by booklover1357 at 11:15 pm (EST) on Oct 13, 2009

DubaiReader- I just wanted to give you an update on the books I'm angeling for you. I have received Forged in the Fire and Bitter Grounds. I have emailed the owners of Lucky Man, Dancing on the Edge, and Too Late the Phalarope again to check on the status of them sending those books. I'd prefer to send everything together in one package because it's more cost-effective if that's okay with you to wait.

Kristin

posted by kmhyle at 4:57 pm (EST) on Oct 3, 2009

See! We oldies have a lot to offer, not that I am close to that age...heeee! All I can hope is if I get to be that old I keep as many faculties as that wonderful woman! I cacked myself!
How many of us could have written that, let alone covered all the necessary bases - and doesn't she have a point?!

I almost missed your 'thought for the day', as the next message was so long; in all honesty I wouldn't have minded if I had, once I read it. :))
I have no comment to add.

~Lyn

posted by Lman at 10:54 am (EST) on Oct 3, 2009

Hey! :)

Daughter of War wasn't that bad stylistically, but it wasn't a great story. It's fictional but based on the Armenian Genocide (and I'm Armenian). I thought I'd be able to read it without cringing but it was rather brutal. I like reading fictional stories based on real events, and sometimes real stories but written in a fictional rather than biographical way; Shiba Sakib's book, The Lost I, Zlata's Diary, all fall under that category too, to me, but the stories are more focussed on a small group of people, and I think that makes them better books. They're not too all-over-the-place, so to speak. But Daughter of War somehow felt like it was all over...

posted by booklover1357 at 5:54 pm (EST) on Oct 1, 2009

Thanks MaryAnne. I've had lots of members express interest in helping out, so many hands will make light work.

Thanks for getting back to me!

Take care,
Michelle

posted by michellereads at 4:12 pm (EST) on Oct 1, 2009

Hi MA,
Your postcard arrived today - how lovely! It is sitting amongst my books - well, where else?! Thank you.

I have very bad news for you... we are all getting older. We just don't realise it! I know what you mean though; I can't be doing with old people either, except at work where I have to! In contrast, I also can't be doing with some young people, but only those arrogant, I-know-everything, immature ones...similar, in kind, to the aged! LOL!

As to the 'thought for the day': interesting article; interesting debate. As someone who has never had children, it is not something I personally have pondered, but it makes me wonder. I am not at all sure we are supposed to be as helpless as we are, for as long as we are, through our infancy. My mother did something very similar with us at an early age - noises that is, and she told me we trained very early. No comment on the long-term effect either please!

Our posts may get longer as we share more - ergo more to write and reply about...or as we age and forget what we wrote and repeat ourselves endlessly! :)
On that note I did you adieu and wish a nice afternoon - one less day (but who's counting?)

~Lyn

posted by Lman at 6:11 am (EST) on Sep 30, 2009

Oh dear me *wiping tears from eyes so I can see to type* you make me laugh! Just remember; we all get old (and I ramble a lot now, so what will I be like in future years - help!). I hate it when everyone can't see my point-of view (the correct one) either! *grin* At least I know if I make it over there, you will just ignore my ramblings!

Ahh yes, The Graveyard Book: still have to write that review *sigh* along with about eight others. *bigger sigh* What is it with me and all these comments in asterisks lately??? Sorry! But I digress... I really liked it; will be rating it 4 if not 4 1/2 stars, but I am not sure if you will enjoy it as much. It made me think of times when I mused about what could happen in places (like graveyards) if we let our imagination take flight. I don't know if you like YA / fantasy - do you? There were parts in it that were just inspired - for example, Gaiman uses the inscriptions on the gravestones as part of the characters names, and that just delighted me. The whole book delighted me actually; hmm.. I've started my review and I must finish it. It could be considered a bit disjointed but I read it mostly in my lunch hours, so the distinct chapters worked perfectly for me. I would definitely recommend it, IF you like that genre.

Hope you have lots of books waiting for you at the PO box; and I'm so very glad you had such a great time in China. It is wonderful to visit places one reads about, I think!
How long is the MIL visit for? Just think of China (instead of Britain) LOL! Do the babies stay over - or just need to have a room for their afternoon sleep?

I'm entertained royally and you have only been back a day!
~L.

posted by Lman at 8:53 am (EST) on Sep 27, 2009

Hi, I'm new to this LibraryThing thing so I'm not sure how it works or it's supposed to work, but I saw some recommendations from you on my home page, and your name caught my eye - I grew up in Dubai! I'm not there anymore though, but I miss it a lot. I noticed you enjoy reading Middle Eastern fiction. Not sure if you have heard of this book, but I read it and loved it: The Lost I, by Choghig Kazandjian. I had come across it here:
www.thelosti.piczo.com

posted by booklover1357 at 10:18 pm (EST) on Sep 26, 2009

Welcome back! I missed you!
I was thinking of you throughout the week, wondering what you were up to; and which chapter you were visiting at the moment. LOL.
Hmmm...not sure what to say about the impending visit; don't get on - huh? Or just the usual? It has been so many years, surely you have won by now? :)

*sulking* I was holding out great hopes a big package of books would be there when you got back, as a further anniv present *sulking off to wait for my PC*

posted by Lman at 9:40 pm (EST) on Sep 26, 2009

Dubai, I was able to get Bitter Grounds. I'll let you know when everything comes in.

Kristin

posted by kmhyle at 7:23 pm (EST) on Sep 17, 2009

Bon Voyage!!!
I hope you have a fantastic time; and I look forward to hearing about it!

~Lyn

posted by Lman at 9:08 am (EST) on Sep 17, 2009

Hello MaryAnne,
Here's another hello; so another little yellow stripe can appear. :) I love my comments too! But they definitely come in waves I have decided. No one writes to me and then I will get three all at once! But, I do like keeping up with my friends, even if it is only to say hello, and waffle on inanely. LOL!

Oooh! China! Wow! 30th WA!!!! I'm reduced to solitary exclamations in my stunned amazement! Congratulations! China must be just wonderful, with your historical penchant. Ooh, can I have a postcard? Please. I wish you a lovely time; I hope you don't have all that much time to read, except on the plane.

I'm glad to see your latest scored a 5 star, though your review, perhaps, says 4 (is that what the last notation means?) as you haven't had the best of runs lately and I hate wasting reading time - heh. I have collected two of hers and I always watch, with interest, reviews about her books, as I am not sure about her other works. I mooched one and found the other in a discount store. I want to read Astonishing Splashes of Colour at some stage, to see whether I like her writing. It was a Booker, so can't be all that bad - I haven't read a bad short-listed/winner yet.

I do wish your books would arrive, for some selfish reasons also; I want to read Girl in a Blue Dress with you! I started reading the first few pages when I acquired it (ages ago) and had to wrestle it out of my hands as I was hooked. I just hope the rest continues in the same vein piquing my interest.

Yes, yes - Tracy Chevalier! Of course - though I did know about the other book with the same title. I picked that book up from my discount store because she is one of your favourites, and I liked the blurb. I like changing my genres and finding new authors (because I have NOTHING to read) and new works. I have enjoyed all my historical fiction (as I keep telling you) though some subjects I avoid (probably to my own disadvantage, in truth).

OK - I've waffled enough back; I enjoy our waffles! Yum! Enjoy the rest of your weekend, and if I don't catch up with you before your little holiday - enjoy!

Take care too!
~Lyn

posted by Lman at 8:32 am (EST) on Sep 12, 2009

Missed me what? And is that all you have to say? ROTFLMAO! (I'm too funny for my own good - and don't you just hate people who laugh too much at their own jokes?)
I left you a little hello...hmm...nearly a week ago - is THAT what you missed? Oh, OK! I'm a bit slow...is that it? (be nice please!)

Hey - you haven't had much luck (or joy, perhaps a better word) with your latest reads - are they book club reads? I can't believe you felt they were worse than Dan Brown!!!! Then again, I can't believe anyone gives that book more than one star - but I know I am in a minority with this. Have you read other Barbara Kingsolver? Gotta love that surname - I've mooched all her novels as I heard they were really good.

BTW, I acquired Burning Brightly due to you - she is one of your favourites isn't she? It looks very interesting, and I am coming to enjoy historical fiction - maybe due to my age? *groan*

And... I was keeping away as the books I sent still haven't arrived and it will be FIVE months soon. I am so beyond peeved. They probably won't arrive for another month *she mutters* - what gives with this? There must only be two ships a year between UEA and Oz; last time I sent sea mail it did NOT take this long! *she mutters and grumbles* It costs more and more and takes longer and longer! *end rant*

I just thought I would answer your wordy post with one of my own - hehe!
Hope you are well,
~Lyn

posted by Lman at 7:49 am (EST) on Sep 11, 2009

Hi MaryAnne,

Just popping by to say hello, and check out all your latest pretty pictures before I fall into bed. I am beyond fatigued this weekend, but I hadn't been by for a while - too, too busy at work! Training on our new machine is finished (thank every deity) so it will be normal stress levels from now on - hopefully. And I can get more book stuff done.

So: hello; hope you are all well, and enjoy your weekend!
~Lyn

posted by Lman at 10:06 am (EST) on Sep 5, 2009

That would be great!! If you're ready to post it soon, you can reserve it in my BM name (turtlegirl). Once I leave the office tonight, I don't know if I'll be back until Tuesday and I don't have internet access at home.

Kristin

posted by kmhyle at 5:40 pm (EST) on Sep 4, 2009

DubaiReader- I found a different edition of Dancing on the Edge, so I have requested it.

Kristin

posted by kmhyle at 11:41 am (EST) on Sep 4, 2009

DubaiReader,
I just got a rejection notice for Han Nolan- Dancing on the Edge that I am angeling for you. I'll keep an eye out for another copy while I'm waiting for the other books to come in.

Kristin

posted by kmhyle at 2:13 pm (EST) on Aug 31, 2009

Hey MA!
I finished Water for Elephants. I'm so glad you nudged me in its direction - I absolutely loved it! It may well be another 5 star for me - no less than 4 1/2. I will decide when writing my review - but after I finished reading, it stayed in my mind, and I keep thinking about different bits of it; went to sleep with it swirling through my head - and that indicates 5 stars to my way of thinking.

Are you really reading / listening to six books all at once? My poor brain can't do that - I have to concentrate on one at a time; though I must confess I had two on the go just recently, but I stopped reading one, finished the second, and then read the first one to the end immediately after.

BTW what do you listen to your audio books on? I have joined that site you mentioned but I'm not sure what to use to listen to them with.

Hope you are well,
L.

posted by Lman at 9:27 pm (EST) on Aug 29, 2009

Sorry, Dubai, I'm turtlegirl on BM.

Kristin

posted by kmhyle at 3:20 pm (EST) on Aug 27, 2009

Hi DubaiReader,

I read your message about audiobook swapping, but unfortunately still haven't quite gotten an answer. If you're interested, I can PM you a list of audiobooks that my wife and I have - there's a smattering of classics, global fiction, and history.

I'm also interested in reading globally as well - both fact and fiction. Currently, my focus is Africa, hence the All Africa Safari, which is open to both fiction and non-fiction, countries or authors, etc. I'm not that interested in imposing my reading goals on others, so its open to fit personal enjoyment. Reading is supposed to be fun, not a task, IMHO.

Thanks for the comment on my photo! It was taken in Hawaii, and I find it amusing. As an ecologist, I was interested to notice on your profile that you're involved with the Dubai Natural History Group and Emirates Environmental Group. I'm curious to learn more about these - are these large organizations? What are attitudes towards the natural world in Dubai? Do most/few people recycle? How are people involved - personal action, involvement with organizations, compliance with law, some combination? What is the general relationship between people and the environment in Dubai? Is the environment well studied there? Perhaps these are too many broad questions. Apologies, I am just curious, as the only things I've read about Dubai are from Thomas Friedman, who has mainly focused on the rapid development aspect there, and I've never before had a chance to communicate with someone there.

Cheers!

posted by bfertig at 9:25 am (EST) on Aug 25, 2009

Hi MaryAnne,

I am really struggling with all my challenges, let's just say, and up to now have currently only read two Dickens - Pickwick Papers and A Christmas Carol. I am actually about a third of the way through Oliver Twist, which was his second published book. Next up will be Nicholas Nickleby but I've got to get a move on or I won't complete either challenge next year, let alone this year. I think I set my stall out a little early...!

Michaela

posted by Fluffyblue at 3:32 pm (EST) on Aug 24, 2009

Good Morning MaryAnne

Firstly I have to say your profile page is looking very nice! It does make for an interesting stop off when you have all these gorgeous covers and links to the books up there for all your visitors to see. I have also put one of those cluster maps and a counter to track my visitors and it is amazing the amount of traffic that passes through and from all over the globe.

In regard to 5's I was thinking about that myself just the other day and usually I have several perfect score books but it just seems 2009 may not be one of those years. When I first read To Kill A Mockingbird it wasnt a 5 but after I discussed it with my bookgroup I raised the score. This happens quite a bit for me with greater appreciation after discussion. Do you agree? Our next group read is The Other Hand of which I am moderator and I emailed Chris Cleave who replied with a very nice email and he has supplied me with discussion questions which will be helpful. He has a great website http://www.chriscleave.com/main/ with a lot of background on his novels. He also writes a column for The Guardian.

I have just ordered the Kamila Shamsie from the Bookdepository and the author is currently here in Australia for The Melbourne Writers Festival.
I see you too enjoy audio books. I am currently listening to Bob Dylan's autobiography and it is narrated by Sean Penn and such a joy just for his voice alone. I recently mooched another audio book Songs Without Wordsby Ann Packer which I am looking forward to on my travels in the car.

Cheers

Jenny

posted by jeniwren at 6:01 pm (EST) on Aug 23, 2009

Umm .. I have a lap-top! hehe! So, now that you have brought it to my attention - I CAN read this book in bed! I hadn't actually thought of that, in all honesty; so a genuine 'thank you' sits amongst all this sarcasm! :) I have a wireless connection so it will be easy...and fun!

I have heard many bad, and some good, things about The Lace Reader, which is why I will be interested in your thoughts. I actually (unusually) got quite put off reading it - as I try to remain without preconceptions; seeing as books are like food, and very personal in taste! I still want to read it at some stage - I think - it is just I don't want to waste precious reading time on a stinker! I have too many really good reads awaiting!
Haven't you got the book too? It was certainly marketed well; I got interested from the 'bumf' (courtesy of MA's reviewing)- LOL - of the publisher as an ER book - and boy, was that over-hype and literary licence (from what I hear).

I'm off to bed; busy week at work! Take care,
~Lyn

posted by Lman at 10:17 am (EST) on Aug 23, 2009

Hi MaryAnne,
I have the same problem (too much computer - too little reading) but I love socializing with other readers!

Yep, I've been on the BM/LT forum for about a month or so, I guess....and loving it.

I'll keep my fingers crossed for you with Carousel Painter.

You have so many amazing books on your profile. Looking forward to spending some time here, and with you.

Take care,
Michelle

posted by michellereads at 9:26 am (EST) on Aug 23, 2009

Actually - it is interesting how much of a difference it makes - I kept looking here for what you were currently reading, as you don't put it into a collection either; so it is very nice! :) And it makes the page very pretty too. :)

Well, that was easy! I was just trying to figure out which book to read next (was even considering The Lace Reader from your pictures) so Water for Elephants it is! And I will move Secret Life of Bees up too, I promise! LOL!

I have about six reviews to write before I pick it up at home though - but hopefully I have time in my lunch break to peruse...

~Lyn

posted by Lman at 3:45 am (EST) on Aug 23, 2009

OMG!!! It's alive! And growing. HA-HA-HA!

Oh my - how good is all that! Now I can see ALL your interesting reads. Hmmmm...you have a lot of interesting reads...*covering my eyes*
L.

posted by Lman at 8:55 pm (EST) on Aug 22, 2009

OOOOOOOOOH!!!!!!!
Noice piccies!!! :)

posted by Lman at 8:39 am (EST) on Aug 22, 2009

Hi MA,

It is all in the spacing!!! That is all it is! Try changing where your first "bracket a" is - might need to be at the beginning of the line with all the other code (is it by itself on a line at the moment) or it may need to be on a line by itself; whatever it is at the moment isn't working so change it to the other. And then, make sure there is a double space between that "bracket a" at the start of the next book and the last code for the previous book. (I get this too sometimes)

As to the size - you can change that to whatever you like: my 'height' is 160px and I have 2px double black. You can customise the 'style' to what you like best!!! Try it to decide - it depends how you want your page to look and how many you put on etc, etc.... I think 100 is probably as small as you want to go but the biggest is up to you. :)

Good for you for having a go! You are nearly there!
~L.

posted by Lman at 8:19 pm (EST) on Aug 21, 2009

I'm assuming that's: YES! PLEASE! ??
Yummmm...Dark French Men in Uniform! mmmmm...
LOL!

posted by Lman at 1:41 am (EST) on Aug 21, 2009

Hi MaryAnne,
Yes, I did read and review it for early reviewers (there were about 6 reviews on there for that book the last time I checked) - it was my first ever score on early reviewers so I delved in, enthusiastically.

I found the historical aspect very interesting. The story in general was pretty good. It was fairly easy reading. The Christian aspect was neither here nor there for me, but I did find the character's giggling habit a bit hard to take. I was looking at some of the other books that you've read, and would guess that some if not most of them are more literary than Carousel Painter. You might not find it has enough depth for you.

Unfortunately my copy has already been bookmooched, otherwise I would send it to you. If I were you, I would try to score one on there or on a similar site - not sure I would pay for a full-priced new copy.

Hope this helps a little.

Take care,
Michelle

posted by michellereads at 10:06 am (EST) on Aug 20, 2009

French men - in uniform! Ooh-la-la!!

posted by Lman at 7:40 pm (EST) on Aug 19, 2009

I also forgot: *sigh*
Your holiday sounded like so much fun - I laughed at the ppl-mover not being big enough; train sounded very sensible! lol! I can imagine it was costly - Euro is very bad with exchange rates! I didn't realise you had gone to Europe though... I had back home to England in mind for some strange reason??? It must have been very nice to do that with all the family though...any place in particular as a fave?

Did you have lots of books to unpack when you got home too?

I think that's all my 'forgets' - for the minute.
L.

posted by Lman at 7:11 am (EST) on Aug 19, 2009

Hello MaryAnne! You're baaaack!!

Actually I knew that from all your recent additions but I thought to give you a few days to 'catch up' before I bombarded you with questions about holidays etc.
I hope you had a good time - did you? I can tell you managed to find time for reading!

I was hoping, so very much, that on your return home my packet of books would have arrived - but it seems like sea mail to Dubai from Australia is ridiculous, and mine are going to take a phenomenal time to get there too - I will post any for you by air in future. Even though it may not actually be put in your post box the first time! It is very strange as it only took two months (by sea) to get back to me.

I loved The Reader! I wrote a review so I'm not adding to that. I have Restless on my list as LT-ers keep telling me to read it, so it is on the radar. I have just started reading The Vintner's Luck by Elizabeth Knox - courtesy of jeniwren - who is always finding wonderful new books for me to read!

Nice to have you back - and I will look at your link and would like to consider your invitation seriously! That is very sweet of you to offer, but I haven't ever told you I am allergic to cats! Badly - as in I lose my ability to breathe around them! So I would be unable to stay with you. :( But it was so very nice of you to offer, and I wish I could as it would be so much fun - I feel!

I'm writing this from work so I must go do some. :)
Glad you are back! I will be reading all your latest reviews on the weekend. TGIF!!!

~Lyn

posted by Lman at 8:18 pm (EST) on Aug 6, 2009

Found it MaryAnne - and sent it too!
Good luck - have fun; ask for help.

And enjoy all those mooches. I have decided mooching is a perfect example of feast or famine: I get NO books in my letter box, and then I get three every day for a week; I have no books on my wish-list available to mooch and then I have 5 at once!!! The way I look at it is, if I can mooch a book every week, that is really good going; as I usually only have time to read one per week then finding another one means I will always be ahead!
Though I think your latest cache of parcels is a bit of a record!! That is all a bit unbelievable - do you have many more on their way? :)

~Lyn

posted by Lman at 7:18 am (EST) on Jun 11, 2009

That's a very sweet thought, but as I have given it a rating it means I have read it - actually I have read them all. They aren't my favourite books in the world, but I inhaled them; just found them very easy to read. And, I did not analyse them, take them too seriously, read each one quite a while apart (I have had the first ones for a long time - that is before they went all "phenomenon") so didn't get too much at once either. Actually I was surprised it took so long for them to gain popularity; but then I didn't expect them to get this popular either??? They are a bit of escapism - which is why I read that genre in actual fact. I'm very pleased you enjoyed the first one!

I only mentioned the images as Jenny had...do them when you are ready!

As to my package - I think it will take 8 - 12 weeks all going well! I only sent it by sea mail after the kerfuffle of the last one - didn't seem worth paying so much when they lose them and they take the same time in the end! Actually I have no idea about postage times even more so now: two books from UK arrived today, three days after they were posted!!!! That is an absolute record - and then I got one from the Ukraine after more than 4 months - so how can that be? Perhaps the container goes missing? After all, a shipping container is such a small object, it would be easy to misplace - yes? :)

What was the book you mooched twice BTW? Can you put one back up for mooching as that way, at least, you even get an extra point?!! Bit of a bummer... I must go look at your BM mooched to see what you got - as you don't put them on here until read.

It has gotten VERY cold here today - VERY, VERY cold! So I am off to have a hot shower and go to bed!

Hope you had a nice sleep - I'm having fun with collections but I am also a tad concerned as I am now going to find out exactly how many books I have to read!!! Help!

Could you please send some warm air our way...
~Lyn

posted by Lman at 8:43 am (EST) on Jun 10, 2009

No definitely not a feminist but just liked the sound of this one about the role of women and what life was like being female in this period of history. I was also quite taken by the cover too. I have just looked up and see you have rated The Female Eunuch only half a star. I do like Greer for being someone who says exactly what she is thinking and she is always entertaining if at times controversial with her opinions. Her feminist writings may be hard to digest as opposed to an interview.

I have just taken a look at your review for the William Broderick. This is a sequel to The Sixth Lamentation? I have that also on my tbr and bought it on the high recommendations from others. So dont give up on it just yet!

Well we are truly on the opposite temperature spectrum. It is bitterly cold here and raining on and off this morning. We have just had central heating/cooling installed recently and it is lovely.

So how are you going towards your 75 books challenge this year? I need to get cracking if I want to reach my goal of at least 50 books this year and may need to select a few slimmer volumes if I am to achieve that.

Jenny

posted by jeniwren at 7:46 pm (EST) on Jun 9, 2009

That's because they send them back first, from your end! Remember? Though the October one would have had to go back AND forth!!!! Not funny - that's outrageous actually!

As for my last package to you - it is by 'slow boat', so I am not sure how long that will take - though when they sent your last one back it took two months to return here by sea???? Thank goodness it only took three weeks by air to get back.
I've given up on postage services - books I sent altogether, to USA: some took one week and two others have taken one month?????????????? ANd we are talking same area here...

I hope the books were all still in good condition? I guess it is a nice surprise in the end.

Hey - 4 stars for Twilight?! Sheesh, I only gave it 3 1/2 and it is my (sorta, kinda) genre! I hope that means you enjoyed it?

DO THE PICTURES - willya? Just ask me for help! What Jenny said - I just read her comment... :) It is freezing here today - due to the wind off the snow! Yep - it's winter!!!

Nice to hear from you - hope my package DOESN"T take 8 months. I will be beyond irked if it does!
~Lyn

posted by Lman at 3:13 am (EST) on Jun 9, 2009

Those books were a long time on a slow boat that is for sure! I was so pleased to hear mine finally arrived and were the three books all from Australia or is it a problem with other countries too?

RE When Will There be Good News I have to agree that she does have several threads running through her novels and it can be difficult to keep track of all the characters but it all tends to come together in the end. I was reading that she is at work on another Jackson Brodie!

Definitely have a go at the pretty pictures. I was a bit scared initially and I did have a few problems at the start but Lyn was ever so helpful and with her expertise she sorted me out in no time . Now I can do it quite easily and it is fun to add your covers for a most impressive profile page.

Just read your review of Twilight =) I read this and although not my usual reading fodder, I did so out of curiousity to see what all the fuss was about. I can understand the attraction to the YA market but I wont be picking the next in the series. Too much teen angst and unresolved sexual tension LOL

As always I have plenty of books lined up (just mooched Shakespeares Wife by Germaine Greer which I was very happy to find) My next read is non fiction about the bombing of Darwin during WW2 which I am not overly excited about as it is a bookgroup choice (not mine obviously!!)

June 1st is the first official day of winter for us and cooler months are always a good time to rug up and read.

Cheers
Jenny

posted by jeniwren at 1:41 am (EST) on Jun 9, 2009

My thoughts exactly - but it couldn't be by a nicer take-over-er!!! LOL indeed!

posted by Lman at 8:53 am (EST) on May 29, 2009

Just quickly before I go to bed at a reasonable time - maybe...

With your reading habits I have noticed, in the time I have known you, and seen your reviews here, I thought you read more than 50+ books per year. You said you had the last ten years to add, so your total numbers seemed less than what I had expected. Having said all that, there is no actual logic behind my reasoning, especially now I think about it more, because you probably read a lot more now than you ever had time for in past years. I had just considered it would be more. Now I have no bloody idea!

Oh! I just got your next comment!! LOL!!!!!!!!

Hey, I have a fast broadband connection and I love it - and I was lucky to have it from the time I got my computer. Once, when my speed was slowed to what many had as normal, I realised just how good it is.

Oooh, sympathy, sympathy... I get migraines too! Look out here comes another comment from you... off to read it and post this one.

L.

posted by Lman at 8:50 am (EST) on May 29, 2009

Oh - I didn't delete them - they are all just archived (was trying to archive some really old ones and accidentally did the lot - UNDO buttons are the love of my computer-ing life) but you have to show ALL of them to restore them in a lump. And that is too, too many. I haven't actually checked to see if I can restore them one-by-one; you probably can! I won't be bothered with that - need to read instead.
And then it was very weird! NO ONE wrote to me! I was sad...

I didn't think your numbers added up either, but there you go. I kept thinking: shouldn't there be more? Still one more page only isn't bad - you have done very well. I don't find it all that hard to enter books on here; I did about 1600 in two days when I first joined. It helped immensely that I had just re-organised all my books onto new bookshelves and they were more accessible. That was what started me on this caper - I still didn't know exactly what I owned, let alone had to-read, even after re-ordering them into a semblance of alphabetical order!!!

WHAT EVICTION??!!!! send me a PM about this please - I don't know anything about this. And I didn't quite understand your last bit - about 'left in the bedroom' unless you didn't want to disturb someone as it was so late; and it seemed like YOU should have been in bed anyway. *lots-of-laughs* As a night owl myself I understand!

Thanks for my lovely new, loooong comment - it looks so much better already!

~Lyn

P.S. What actually constitutes a "global read" - is it just set in another country?

posted by Lman at 8:10 pm (EST) on May 28, 2009

Hello MA,
My, aren't you having a good reading month! Isn't that nice - all those 4 1/2 and 5 star books!
Will you stop giving me ideas!!!! :)

Though now I look above I see lots of 1/2 star ratings too. Why didn't you like Fire from Heaven? The one about fairies I can understand... hahaha! Were these 'club' reads?

I finally cancelled The Dud mooch BTW - it wasn't going to happen. It certainly lived up to its name!

What are you reading now? I'm leaving my Girl in a Blue Dress until you get your copy. I can't decide what to read after my latest - though after peering at your comments below I was considering my first Barbara Kingsolver! I managed to mooch a lot of hers.

Hey, can you leave a quick comment on my profile - I somehow archived them all (???) and it looks so bare! :)
Hope you are well - is it getting hot there; because someone is turning the heater down here!

~Lyn

posted by Lman at 9:45 am (EST) on May 28, 2009

I think The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver would be high on my list of global reads.

I have read The Dead of Summer and although I enjoyed it at the time - it hasn't stayed with me in the way that some other books do.

posted by silvercowrie at 3:17 am (EST) on May 22, 2009

Hello, DR!
(Sorry for the typo in my last message - I was in quite a hurry)

I think your ideas regarding spoilers are brilliant! I'm thinking of e-mailing the head honchos at LT the flag idea... I just read your Dead of Summer review, and as I scanned the other reviews I came across one that begins "Three kids were murdered in a mine..." The other reviewers were all very careful to avoid stating what actually happened to the kids - is this a spoiler? It definitely sounds like one, though I haven't read the book, but now I'm not as curious about the story as I would have been had I not read this review :(

Wow, I wasn't expecting Yemen to be on your travel wishlist! What's the draw? Now I'm curious to do some research on this country, which I know so little about.

Yes, I'm Russian (moved to the US when I was 4 and grew up in LA, but totally bilingual - do some Russian translation/interpreting work, and met my hubby in Moscow...) It seems that beautiful Russian girls do have a penchant for prostitution, and gold-diggign is totally accepted culturally. Russia's still a tough place to get ahead, and many women don't think they can do so without a man.

It must be a bit strange wondering whether young people in Dubai find you "doddery." However, you seem quite young at heart! Plus, the youth in Dubai probably need more "elders" to set an example and offer guidance. I can say from experience that, following my mother's death last June, I'm extremely appreciative of the maternal energy I receive from older friends, some of whom used to be my mother's friends but "adopted" me after she died. And my grandmother, who is 71 and in the painful position of outliving her daughter, is our treasured family matriarch - I can't imagine life without her!

Gotta run buy a present for my hubby's b-day (tomorow!)
Ciao for now!
~Paulina

posted by PrincessPaulina at 6:23 pm (EST) on May 21, 2009

Hi DR,

Global Reads is a good phrase and is probably the fiction genre that I am most drawn to. Thanks for recommending Gardens of Water. It sounds just my thing and I've added it to my wish list.

posted by silvercowrie at 11:54 am (EST) on May 21, 2009

LD ~
Just a quick note now to clarify that I didn't mean anything personal in my comments about spoilers (your reviews are lovely, not guilty of that at all! :) I just wanted to get your opinion on this as a fellow book lover, perhaps LT should develop some policy or "manifesto" regarding spoilers in reviews? Really, my experience with several books has been dampened by checking out LT reviews prior to reading the book (such as "The History of Love" by Nicole Krauss)

I will write a longer reply to your message as soon as I have the chance!
Ciao for now!
~P

posted by PrincessPaulina at 4:55 pm (EST) on May 20, 2009

Are there really so few natives in Dubai?! Then what are the main expat populations there? Hmmm, I wonder if there's a sizable Russian community...

Well, your children seem drawn to Dubai if they are returning (according to Wiki, it's a very "young" place - median age 27!) And it doesn't sound as if you'll be experiencing Empty Nest Syndrome any time soon :) From what you've told me about Dubai, I imagine a diverse, international lifestyle - it would be fascinating to meet some of the intellectual Muslim population, such as the Sheik's son you mentioned!

You have a great excuse to finally get some vacation time away from the UK (your 30th anniversary!) If you could go anywhere in the world to celebrate it, which place would you choose?

Funny you brought up the Cairo Trilogy, I have that on my (huge, as you noted!)wishlist. I see from your review that you didn't enjoy it much due to the flowery language. I wonder whether the Muslim ladies in your book group read it in Arabic, and whether they enjoyed this book?

I noticed that you and Lyn were discussing the book reviews here on LT, and I have a HUGE pet peeve regarding this topic: I often check out reviews to help me decide which book to read next, but HATE spoilers, which are sadly quite common. I really do NOT want to know very much of the actual plot prior to reading a book! It seems like so many people find it necessary to summarize the entire plot for a review, as if they're writing a book report for school! Heh, sorry to vent, but who else can I complain to except a fellow book lover??? ;)

Well, "In the Castle of Flynn's" has been marked as sent, perhaps I'll post this one together with "Monkey Beach." Will let you know how things progress..
Take care!
~Paulina

posted by PrincessPaulina at 6:55 pm (EST) on May 19, 2009

So, the email has been sent with the code...but I thought to tell you here, in case you miss it.

I think I answered all the questions except for the thumbs - yes, I often thumb your reviews; funny, I thought you knew that and had done the same with mine...but there you go! I love reading other reviews, especially those written by my contacts. I have become quite addicted to writing my own; and I love getting thumbs! It is also interesting to see the hugely differing viewpoints, and interpretations, of a book. Sometimes I wonder whether I have read the same book. :)

Have fun putting in pictures...

posted by Lman at 6:48 am (EST) on May 17, 2009

Its interesting that you bring up HK, because my husband and I went there for our 10th Wedding Anniversary / New Year several years ago (back when the economy was booming and we could afford such trips.. *sigh*). I believe we stayed at Langham. It was very interesting - I'm a big city girl - but I did experience my 1st ever bout of claustrophobia at a very crowded shopping center (low ceilings, no windows, and seemingly no exits..)

So after living in Dubai for nearly 10 years, do you speak Arabic? Does your son live there as well, and if so how has he assimilated into the culture? It sounds like your husband has a fascinating job, I really hope that things pick up for all of us soon!

I'm sorry that you find it difficult to travel because of family responsibilities, however traveling feeds the soul and keeps us young (my personal belief), in which case you could view it as actually doing your older relatives a favor, since you will return rejuvenated and much more ready to take on their problems...

posted by PrincessPaulina at 8:29 pm (EST) on May 14, 2009

Well done! Now you can leisurely add the many, many books you read in real time - haha!

No! That was the parcel that was supposedly unable to be delivered as the address was unknown! Didn't you notice it was a parcel in an envelope, and had been tw3ice around the world? :) The next three books are surface mail - so I shudder to think if they come back too - it will be six months before they finally get to you! :)

Ooops! There will be an email forthcoming, very soon, even today hopefully, with all the code for your pretty pictures. Sorry! I completely forgot!

I'm reading some light paranormal short stories at the moment (it is on my profile) - as I can't decide what to read next. I just read my first Rankin books (finally) and wasn't sure what I felt like next.
I saw your review for 19th Wife - and gave it a thumb! Thank goodness I don't want to read it that much - I wasn't sure but your review helped my thinking. I don't want to waste a minute of my precious reading time on so-so books - too many good ones on my shelves!!!

I am SOOOOOOO glad those books finally arrived - that had the one that got sent incorrectly to begin with - so watch out for the hormones, as I think they are still active with all that has happened - remember? And with the mooch that never got sent to me that was supposed to go with these ones... remember? So I am very glad you finally have those two. That was just stupid - all that. MUST be hormones!!!!

I'll send you an email later today...

~Lyn

posted by Lman at 7:05 pm (EST) on May 14, 2009

Hello, again~

There must have been a glitch for a while, then. Fortunately, I haven't written many reviews so don't have to check mine. I had enough analytical reviewing in English lit, and any review I might write will probably just be my reaction to a book.

The admins are probably just very busy trying (as in pulling-out-hair busy LOL) to keep up with everything on this very complicated site.

‹(^¿^)›

posted by Boobalack at 3:49 pm (EST) on May 14, 2009

Italian Shoes is not new as published in 2006 but this is the first English translation so it is new for us. I have not read Mankell previously but was tempted by a review which I quote says 'Its simply a beautiful written meditation on loneliness and attempts to rebuild and make ammends for a life gone astray.'

The free books scheme you have going sounds great and that would no doubt spur along your reading!! I shall have a look at your reviews. I go in spurts with my enthusiasm for Bookcrossing and join up for the bookrings that interest me and I have also joined a Virtual Book Box that is organised here in Australia. You join up and offer two books and then as your turn comes around you get to choose from what is currently in the box and replace each one you take with the same number of your books. I like this because your Bookcrossing books go to other members and you are guaranteed a journal entry. If you want to take a look at how it works here is the link. http://vbboz.blogspot.com/

http://anzlitlovers.wordpress.com/anzll-... Here is a link for my online bookgroup and one of our members has her own blog and there are lots of links re past years reading etc. I have been a member since the group formed back in 2002 so it has been a big part of my reading life and I love the chance to chat with like minded book nuts!! We read predominantly Australian lit but include a few international award winning books throughout the year and we pick our schedule 12 months in advance and take turns to moderate the discussions.

Oh well best be off as I have an early start in the morning.

J

posted by jeniwren at 6:41 am (EST) on May 13, 2009

Yes have just read Earth Hums in B Flat and loved it. I have reviewed it here.
http://www.librarything.com/work/7568645... It has a gorgeous child narrator who believes she can fly! Embers is a bookring from Bookcrossing and it is on the pile to read soon. I have several of TC Boyles on my shelf also. The Tortilla Curtain and I have heard good reports also. Others I have are Drop City and Riven Rock. I read another one for bookgroup last year Talk Talk which I enjoyed.

I have just come from the mail box and have added four new books to my shelf.
Italian Shoes by Henning Mankell
Dead until Dark by Charlaine Harris
The Last Crossing by Guy Vandehaeghe
and
Towelhead by Alicia Erian.

Thanks for the tip re Ebershoff.....one I can cull from the wishlist. I hope your book turns up soon

*jen*

posted by jeniwren at 3:19 am (EST) on May 13, 2009

Hi~

I discovered the error when I tried to read my review in the reviews, rather than on my page for the book. This may have happened before, but I haven't written a lot of reviews, so it hasn't been a problem for me, yet.

I never thought of simply clicking "save" until after I had sent a note to all those with the same incorrect date. I feel rather silly. ;-)

Regards.

posted by Boobalack at 9:43 pm (EST) on May 12, 2009

Hi MA

Oh dont ever apologize for reading my mail as I love to visit here and find the yellow alert on my page. I actually sent you an email from BM yesterday as I am getting concerned about the lengthy delay for 'Flirting with Pete'. I sent a book to the US around the same time and it has arrived this week.

Someone Knows my Name is such an interesting story and I am enjoying it very much. I cant say I have read a 'slave' themed novel before and I am learning a lot. I belong to an online BG and we are discussing this at the moment and the current thread is about the section of the book set in the sea islands of South Carolina where it depicts 18th century indigo plantations where African American slaves and overseers are left largely to their own devices during the "sick season" and how they deliberately introduce smallpox to gain immunity. Thanks for the tip on the thread on slavery. I shall take look as there may be some info we could use.

I read 'Twilight' last year as I too wanted to see what all the fuss was about. But I have to say...yawnthat the appeal for tweens is evident but for discerning readers of literature this does not fit the bill LOL I even watched the DVD and it was ok and will make a squillion dollars at the box office. As a bookgroup read I am not sure but I will be very interested to hear what you think of it and how the discussion goes!

Thanks for the tip on Joanne Harris. I loved her Five Quarters of the Orange and have Jigs and Reels on my shelf. Noticed you have David Ebershoff as a recent addition and this is one I am very interested in.

Well time to go and put the kettle on for a cup of tea. I am sitting here in my pj's very early and it is bitterly cold outside but the sun is coming up and looks like a nice day ahead.

Have a good one

Nice chatting

*jen* ( off to read your latest review)

posted by jeniwren at 6:19 pm (EST) on May 12, 2009

Noticed you liked She's Come Undone, and I was wondering if you'd be interested in reviewing my new novel and posting your comments here as well as a few other book-related sites. Thought you might like my book since it's also about a disturbed young girl's downward spiral and a bit dark. I could e-mail you the novel in an e-book format if you'd like (I'm out of physical copies at the moment). Let me know if you're interested. Here's a link to a summary in case you're interested:

http://christophertusa.com/

Thanks,

Chris

posted by cmtusa at 10:01 pm (EST) on May 7, 2009

Hi~

I received "The Cellist of Sarajevo" through the ER option and was quite pleased. However, when I posted my review last month, the date stamp on the review was Dec. 31, 1969. I sent Abby two messages about this through LT and sent Tim an e-mail. It wasn't fixed. So, I went back to my review, added a sentence to the bottom and saved it. Voila! Problem solved. The date stamp is now the date I edited it -- still not correct, but much better than Dec. 1969. I then went back and deleted the added sentence. Previously, the fact that I had posted a review was not shown in the Most Recent Activity box on My Profile, but it does now. Thought you might like to know how to fix your review.

Cheers!

posted by Boobalack at 5:22 pm (EST) on May 7, 2009

I'm reading it - are you? Or are you finished already...

I haven't forgotten about sending you the code for the images; I am just flat out this week! I have two days off at the end of next week - yeehah - so it may have to wait until then. And I have to update you with your 'dud' mooch - another one! I haven't had too much time to read either. :(

I am really enjoying this book BTW! :0

~Lyn

posted by Lman at 8:50 am (EST) on Apr 16, 2009

Yes ma'am!!!! LOL.

OK! I will... actually I am glad you organised my next book to read - I was having trouble deciding! :0 I probably won't start it until this weekend, but as it is a long, long weekend for Easter, I will have plenty of time! I also have on order his next one too. Do you know when the third is coming out? As it is a BG book, does that mean you write a review too?

I am vastly entertained with all these books you are adding; and quite upset with some of the ratings. I hope we disagree with some that I have on my list to read! Seeing as we probably have quite different reading tastes - judging by the weighted anyway - we may agree to disagree! Only three more pages - go girl!!!
When you have finished I will be perusing your library ratings with interest.

Your second angel mooch still hasn't been sent; my books I sent you haven't arrived - I'm irked! Guess I'll ignore it all and go read a book! Speaking of which: I read the first chapter of Girl in a Blue Dress in a publisher's newsletter and loved it - so I was very chuffed to find a really nice copy in my used book store - in fact I was astounded. I just hope the rest of the book lives up to the first part. You have to wonder why they are flicked off and don't make the short-list; but then again it may just be a matter of taste.

I will send you an email - a very long one - with the code for the HTML images so you can have pretty pictures on your profile. Which browser do you use?

~Lyn

posted by Lman at 4:55 am (EST) on Apr 8, 2009

Hi MA,
Wow! What a fun weekend! HUGE indeed! And how wonderful, even with the authors who didn't make it. Our Sydney Writers' Festival pales into insignificance compared with all that lot! oh, I'd just be in heaven! I would love to listen to Margaret Atwood speak - it would be extremely interesting...to me I'm sure. Do you like Paul Torday - I haven't read his books, though his first has always interested me. Is he OK?

As to Shanghai Girls, that is all down to you! It is an Advanced Reader Edition that I snagged from Random House for free! I only got interested in Lisa See after reading your review - remember? So, then I found a copy of Snow Flower, though jeniwren was going to give me her copy she had gotten for free! And I subscribed to the newsletter she told me about, and where she had been given her book from; and then, in their latest newsletter, they were offering her next book. After reading the first chapter they had as an excerpt, and liking it a lot I dashed off an application, never in my wildest dreams expecting to get one, and it turned up in the post the other day!!!!!!! I was so excited, you have no idea - I never win anything usually. I have tried for books with others before but without success, so I was very surprised to get this one, believe me.
I am going to read it next and submit my LT review to them as a thank you - I just hope I like it! Agree: naff cover - I wonder if it will be better on the published book.

Update: I've given up on your third 'angel' mooch BTW, I almost thought it was coming this week, but it didn't. I am posting all my mooches tomorrow, and then it will arrive on Monday, no doubt! I can't wait any longer, it is too depressing, and the others keep glaring at me whenever I look their way; not happy they aren't travelling, especially the one who has already been in circles! Must be still hormonal! :)

Have fun today!!
L.

posted by Lman at 1:54 am (EST) on Feb 28, 2009

No kidding - I didn't know it was back in print! I'll be sure to get a copy while I can...

posted by Eruntane at 8:18 am (EST) on Feb 27, 2009

Hi

I have read Jigs & Reels, which is well worth it, but I haven't been able to find a copy of The Evil Seed for anything under £200, which is a bit steep even for a novel by Joanne Harris!

Like you, my favourite would have to be Gentlemen and Players, although I do love the ones set in France just for the way she evokes the feel of the country. (I lived there for a year and loved it.) I'm sure you'll find The Lollipop Shoes enjoyable - it certainly wasn't bad, it just lacked the sparkle of Chocolat, which was what got me into reading Joanne Harris in the first place.

posted by Eruntane at 10:37 am (EST) on Feb 26, 2009

Hi again,

You can get to my 75 challenge thread from the link on my profile page.

The most interesting thing that I've learned about Harper Lee (I'm not very far into the book yet) is that "To Kill a Mockingbird" is a fictionalized biography of her life. Dill (a character in the book) is actually author Truman Capote, and Lee's father really was a lawyer in a high profile court case.

posted by loriephillips at 4:26 pm (EST) on Feb 25, 2009

Hi again,

Forgot to say: The map on my profile page updates every couple of days, so Dubai has not shown up yet, but I'm sure it will. It's kind of fun to see where people are from who visit my library.

:)

posted by loriephillips at 4:12 pm (EST) on Feb 25, 2009

Hi MaryAnne,

Thanks for stopping by and leaving a message.

I'm looking forward to reading "Coastliners". It's good to know that you liked it. I loved "Chocolat" and will soon be reading the sequel.

I'm currently reading "Mockingbird" which is a biography of Harper Lee. It's very interesting. I've read "To Kill a Mockingbird" many times, the first time when I was about 10 years old. It is one of my all time favorite books of all time. I hope you enjoy it. I'll be interested in knowing your thoughts about it.

I haven't yet read any of Obama's books, but I hear that he is very articulate.

Check this link to learn how to post book covers: http://www.librarything.com/groups/greyh...

I enjoy your thread on the 75 Book Challenge group. I don't always leave a comment, but I'm often lurking!

Happy reading,
Lorie

posted by loriephillips at 4:02 pm (EST) on Feb 25, 2009

Hi Mary Anne

To be honest, I think Joanne Harris has gone off the boil a bit recently. I didn't think The Lollipop Shoes was anywhere near as good as Chocolat either.

Jo

posted by Eruntane at 8:28 am (EST) on Feb 25, 2009

I don't believe I've ever had a friends request from you, and I don't have anything pending. So I will ask you to be my friend right now :o)

posted by nicx27 at 4:34 pm (EST) on Feb 24, 2009

Hello my friend I would love it! Thanks for the offer.

posted by tobiejonzarelli at 10:34 am (EST) on Feb 18, 2009

Hi MaryAnne,

How are you?

I just picked up "Bone China" by Roma Tearne today and am so excited! You're among the first lucky ones on LT to have it! You plan to read it soon?

I read "Mosquito" by her, last year, and thought it a fabulous debut novel. Did you read it by any chance?

posted by akeela at 6:20 am (EST) on Feb 13, 2009

Hi MaryAnne

Really lovely to hear from you! I was very excited to see your thread, but wasn't sure how you'd react if I said so - especially since you hadn't heard from me before. I'd noted somewhere along the line that we shared similar tastes in books - possibly from posts?!

Thanks for the recommendations. "Gardens of Water" sounds right up my alley! I will add them to my TBR list!

I look forward to your reading output!

posted by akeela at 5:35 pm (EST) on Feb 4, 2009

Hey - small world! I actually went to a BALI awards night many years ago. Had a great time too.

It has been hot here this week with forecasts for thunderstorms; so far nothing, but the first cyclone warning for the season was issued for far north Queensland this afternoon, so we should get some rain out of the end of that system. It has been too hot this week for the garden; but lovely inside with the airconditioning on, a bottle of cold white wine and a pile of books! It is lovely not to feel there should be other things I should be doing on the weekend. *grin*

I'm on a run of fantasy series at the moment. Jennifer Fallon, an Australian author, is a relatively new find. A friend has given me two full trilogies of hers, so I can read from one book to the next without having to wait - I hate waiting! Next up, I have books 2&3 of the Bartimeus trilogy by Jonathan Stroud - I loved book 1; and the next 2 arrived from my favourite secondhand shop on Friday. Lman said these were fabulous. I've got a few others half read, including Ian Rankin's 'Open Door' and Ruth Rendell's 'Portobello'. They've both been there for some time - despite these being favourite authors, I just can't seem to get into them.

I've got a couple fo consulting projects on the agenda for this week - so there will not be a lot of opportunity for recreational reading. It is 10pm, so I am headed off to bed to make the most of it before the work week starts, *nighty night*

posted by Jawin at 7:15 am (EST) on Jan 11, 2009

Not necessarily. I can't see me reading the same amount but I can't imagine dropping approx 150 from my reading list. That magic thing called nursery ;)

posted by SmithSJ01 at 5:22 am (EST) on Jan 10, 2009

In '06, I only started recording half way through the year, that's why it's lower than the rest. 2007 had harder studying than 2008 hence a slightly lower number than last year.

posted by SmithSJ01 at 12:22 pm (EST) on Jan 9, 2009

Hey - that's interesting!

I have horticulture qualifications in my dark past. I used to run a landscaping and plant hire business way back in the 80s with my ex-husband. In fact, I ran the Australian Nursery Industry Association for a number of years too. Dubai sounds like a much better place for a plantsperson than cold England!

I took international posting off my profiles on both Bookmooch and Bookcrossing awhile ago. I was spending gazillions because everything is so expensive to post from down here, and often people didn't even bother journalling receipt. I will still send books overseas - to a friend, or if someone asks nicely and it is something I think they'd have trouble getting locally. The points on Bookmooch really don't bother me, as I rarely use it to source books - it is really a means of stopping my house becoming crammed to the ceilings with more books! I'll only go looking there for something I desperately want that is out of print or not readily obtainable secondhand here.

I see from your profile that you don't read sci-fi/fantasy or mysteries - which seem to make up the bulk of my recreational reading these days. A friend was given the French recently and has promised to pass it on - so I'll be interested in your thoughts. I did read Bennett's 'Uncommon Reader' over Christmas and simply adored it.

It has cooled down a bit here so I am off to play in the garden before it is too hot for even mad dogs and Englishmen to be outside!

posted by Jawin at 12:59 am (EST) on Jan 4, 2009

How lovely to meet you! Lman has been a good correspondent - she found me from one of my reviews, too, if I recall correctly.

I've just looked back at my review of The Alchemist. In hindsight, I seemed to have been feeling particularly charitable - two stars was probably 1.5 more than I should have given it.

I'm Jawin on Bookmooch and Bookcrossing too.

Are you an ex-pat Aussie? What takes you to Dubai?

Hope you have a fabulous New Year.

Jan

posted by Jawin at 6:07 am (EST) on Jan 1, 2009

I knew this would be bad - now I want a copy of Snow Flower and the Secret Fan! See what you do! :)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

~Lyn

posted by Lman at 8:57 pm (EST) on Dec 30, 2008

I have just finished Falling Man by Don DeLillo and it will be the last one for this year and pleased to have a total of 48 books for 2008.

Here is my top 10 as we are sharing =)

Breath by Tim Winton
Lost in the Forest by Sue Miller
Empire of the Sun by JG Ballard
Engleby by Sebastian Faulks
Fred and Edie by Jill Dawson
The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox by Maggie O'Farrell
The Testament of Gideon Mack by James Robertson
Things Without a Name by Joanne Fedler
The Secret Scripture by Sebastian Barry
The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski

I would especially recommend the James Robertson, Tim Winton and Sebastian Faulks. I have a couple of yours (Blood of Flowers and Snow Flower and the Secret Fan) on my tbr so that is great.
BTW I am about to leave for town to post your book.
Happy New Year
jeniwren

posted by jeniwren at 4:43 pm (EST) on Dec 28, 2008

Just having a closer look and noticed in your recent activity lots of stars for The Piano Tuner, What was Lost and The Snow Flower and the Secret Fan. I have these three novels and thinking I might move them closer to the top of the pile now =)
Oh WOW how do you keep up with 7 bookgroups!! I belong to 2 , one online and a f2f group and that is difficult enough . I am actually quite pleased that it is holiday time and I can choose a few books myself rather than those that are scheduled with a deadline LOL
I have a small stack ready for the holidays and they include those at my profile page and also the new Wally Lamb 'The Hour I first believed' which i am looking forward to. Loved his previous novels Shes Come Undone and I know this much is true. Have you read these?

Cya
Jenny

posted by jeniwren at 10:34 pm (EST) on Dec 21, 2008

Hi Maryanne
I have just come from BM and yes thats me *jeniwren*. The Optimistic Child has been mooched but quite happy to send the Delinsky for you. No need to mooch another for my sake , only if you really want it.
It is interesting about our books and where your library are books you have read, a lot of mine are those on my very large TBR !! I could sit down and add all the books I have read in the last seven years ( since keeping a book journal ) and I may do that one day. I dont keep many books once I have read them so that is where BM is great. Being able to clear the shelves and add new books.

I have only met Lyn recently and she has been ever so kind helping me learn the codes for adding all the nice book covers to my profile.

Thanks for the LT friendship invitation and Happy Christmas to you and your family. I am wishing for a book or two under the tree this year. There are two books I really would love and have dropped plenty of hints. So here's hoping.

Jenny

posted by jeniwren at 10:21 pm (EST) on Dec 21, 2008

Hello!

Didn't know you were here either, nor for so long! Happy LibraryThing Anniversary BTW!

Mooched your book - accepted your invitation and I'm now ready for a break - LOL!

Another good way to keep in touch...

L.

posted by Lman at 9:41 pm (EST) on Dec 21, 2008

Sam's that for me!

posted by louiseog at 3:46 pm (EST) on Sep 29, 2008

Same as a mobile library yes, wait for the library!

posted by louiseog at 2:12 pm (EST) on Sep 15, 2008

I definitely wont look - tell me when I am back on top!

posted by Saluk at 1:35 pm (EST) on Sep 15, 2008

I got it on a book ring was good.

posted by louiseog at 10:18 am (EST) on Sep 13, 2008

LOL. You do realise that if I don't end up at the top of your list after you have finished adding all your books, I am gong to be pretty upset :))

posted by Saluk at 7:03 am (EST) on Sep 13, 2008

Hello to you too, my dear :-)

posted by libreria04 at 10:57 pm (EST) on Sep 10, 2008

I've wanted to list mine favourites first, but didn't know I could. Good to know we can!

posted by HannahHolborn at 10:15 pm (EST) on Sep 10, 2008

My top lot is us lot. It's nice to see what everyone shares in common.

posted by SmithSJ01 at 2:22 pm (EST) on Sep 10, 2008

A marvelous book of short stories set in China is "Apologies Forthcoming" by Xujun Eberlein!

posted by HannahHolborn at 10:26 am (EST) on Sep 10, 2008

Awwww no!! I rather liked the idea of being at the top of someone's list(well I probably am, but no idea whose that is!)

posted by Saluk at 1:15 am (EST) on Sep 10, 2008

It might peter out once you've added some more. A high percentage though!

posted by SmithSJ01 at 1:32 am (EST) on Sep 8, 2008

Or me!

posted by louiseog at 2:28 pm (EST) on Sep 7, 2008

Dubby, I think the dots only last for 24 hours and then they are gone! Lol!

posted by kehs at 11:08 am (EST) on Sep 7, 2008

Lol! You got me started and I clicked on Loggy's map. It does show up my end too! Then I clicked on Sam's. No dot there, but my town showed on her list. It's a strange system but great fun.

posted by kehs at 5:04 pm (EST) on Sep 6, 2008

Not yet!!!!!!!

posted by louiseog at 10:43 am (EST) on Sep 6, 2008

Yes it is quite interesting watching the 'ratings'!!

posted by Saluk at 7:38 am (EST) on Sep 6, 2008

Hiya

You invited me to join LibraryThing but I've been on here two years lol. Thought I'd drop you a note and I've asked you to be my friend incase you couldn't find me through my ID. Sam x

posted by SmithSJ01 at 3:22 pm (EST) on Sep 5, 2008

Hi am already here!

posted by louiseog at 10:54 am (EST) on Sep 5, 2008