What are you reading now?

I often wonder where people get the book they are reading. I am sure I am not the only one. Was it a friend who loaned it to them or maybe they found it in a dusty old used bookstore, maybe they bought it online. I want to know.

Why did you pick this book? Did the cover get your attention? Or maybe it was the title? Did someone recommend you this book?

The list goes on...inquiring minds want to know.

First give the title of your book and the author and then try to answer the questions below. I have added 2 questions. I hope you all don't mind.

1. Where did you get this book?

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.

No Justice by Darcia Helle

1. Where did you get this book?

It was an "early reviewer"

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?

Nothing :) No price on the book.

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?

I recieved in on Nov 1. Finished the book I was reading on Nov 2. The first two sentences intrigued me. I had to read it right away.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?

1 day.

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?

I am enjoying the small chapters and the fast pace. There is nothing that I don't like yet.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?

Better, better, better.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?

On page 52 with 177 left to go.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.

Like I said it was an "early reviewer". My book is special because it is signed by the author. Big smiles here.

Richard Stevenson's The 38 Million Dollar Smile.

1. Where did you get this book?

Our local independent bookstore.

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?

Full price. $14.99

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?

Stevenson is a local author who was interviewed on the radio recently.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?

A couple of weeks.

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?

The setting in Thailand is excellent and ties in with another book I read recently. The plot is a little meandering.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?

As good.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?

p. 186 of 278. Plan to sit in a comfy chair on this rainy day and finish it.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.

N/A.

Reading The Poison Tree by Erin Kelly

1. Where did you get this book?

Early Reviewers

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?

$0.00

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?

I try and read my early reviewers as soon as I can.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?

1 day.

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?

I am really enjoying on how descriptive it is. I can see, hear, feel, taste and smell the enviroment.

The beginning confused me.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?

Getting better.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?

On page 144 with 278 to go

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.

This early reviewer came with a bookmark and a letter.

I read the first chapter and preamble of John Henry Newman: A Biography (Oxford Lives) by Ian Ker last night. I got the (paberback) book new, from an academic bookstore a couple of weeks ago, for a little under £20 and not under rrp. It is possibly being read as an attempt to re-engage with Victorian literature. We are having something of a cold snap right now and going to bed early with nothing decent on the box it seemed like a good time to take a look at it. Not far enough in to say much other than the writer's style I find agreeable and the choice of facts retold seem relevant. I'm not sure what I expected other than a sense of history.

Reading A Tiny Bit Marvelous by Dawn French

1. Where did you get this book?

It was an early reviewer

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?

No price on the book and it didn't cost me anything.

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?

Always read my early reviewers as soon as I am able.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?

Two days.

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?

It is hilarious.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?

Much better.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?

On page 104 with 218 left to go.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.

It is a new book and is an uncorrected proof copy.

Love In The Time of Cholera by Gabriel Garcia Marquez

1. Where did you get this book? >a used book store

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?>It cost me $4.50/Book price on cover was $9.95

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW? > I was looking through my books for something to read and it just 'popped out' at me. Forgot that I had it.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table? >over 3 years

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? >descriptive and sensual >What don't you like about this book?>nothing so far

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?>better

7. What page are you on NOW? >on page 301 How many pages left to go? >47 Arten60:

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.>previous owner's name inscribed

And what would that name be?

A Walk In the Woods by Bill Bryson

1. Where did you get this book? purloined from my favorite uncle.

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book? It cost me nothing because it was "lightly thieved." Oh, what did he pay for it? Um. $14.00.

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW? It's the holidays, and I lost my mother at the beginning of this year, so I was looking for something both uplifting and funny. This is the second reading, actually.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table? Seven years? Maybe six.

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? It's hilarious, smart, and full of smart-assery. Yes, I make up words on occassion.>What don't you like about this book? What's not to love? Bill Bryson is near and dear to my heart.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be? It's better the second time around.

7. What page are you on NOW? 126 How many pages left to go? 200+. I don't add or subtract after 9 p.m.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what makes your book unique.

The last question didn't go through. If it does later, please forgive the repetition:

8. A: What makes this book unique is that it has a crease from where I had to carry it out like contraband from my uncle's house. Don't ask me where on my person the book was hidden.

:)

I began rereading an old favourite, The Professor's House. Maybe I wanted to reread it because I'm moving at the moment - up my eyeballs packing boxes! This novel opens with a scene of moving that proves quite disruptive to the professor's life and sense of self. Hopefully, I'll weather my move more calmly.....

Ex Lit Prof
www.the-reading-list.com

I Should Have Seen It Coming When The Rabbit Died by Teresa Bloomingdale

1. Where did you get this book?

At the local library

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?

Strange enough there is no price on the book and it didn't cost me anything. Someone had placed it on the free book shelf.

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?

My husband just finished reading it and I wanted to find out why he kept laughing.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?

I would guess, about a month.

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?

It doesn't hide the truth, says it like it is. Nothing I don't like so far.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?

About the same.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?

Has 194 pages and I am on page 42.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.

It is a used book in good condition. Nothing out of the ordinary.

Finally got to JANE EYRE and am wondering what took me so long. A really enjoyable read so far.

I am currently reading two books. One is my on the go book, Duma Key by Stephen King. The other is Matched by Allly Condie.

1. Duma Key I got from a used book store, Matched I got from Amazon.
2. 3.00/7.99 9.99/17.99
3. I picked Duma Key for my on the go book because it's paperback, and Matched because I have been impatiently awaiting its release.
4. Duma Key was for about 6 months and Matched I started reading as soon as I opened the package.
5. Duma Key I like the characters and I don't like the blah blah blah, Matched I like that its a dystopian fiction and I haven't found anything I don't like yet.
6. Both are better, so far
7. Not sure what page I am on (it's in the truck) but I am almost done, Matched on page 105 so 261 to go.
8. NA

Reading Presumed Innocent by Scott Turow. Pretty good. A bit of a mix between a character-driven book and a murder mystery, which can be a bit jarring at times.

I'm still reading The Beauty of Humanity Movement and very much enjoying it (I only regret that I had to put it down for a few days in the midst of moving). And I have also started reading The Heroine's Bookshelf: Life Lessons, from Jane Austen to Laura Ingalls Wilder, which I won on Goodreads! This book is of particular interest to me because it provides a personal glimpse of how literature can inspire and uplift.... something I'm exploring in my own memoir about reading.

Ex Lit Prof
www.the-reading-list.com

I am reading Power Friending by Amber Mack

1. Where did you get this book?

I bought it at Chapters.

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?

I hardly ever buy books that are over $10.00. This one cost me $27.90. The original price was $31.00.

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?

I have been meaning to read it and I was due for a change.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?

Since October 27, this year.

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?

I like the way that Amber says it in simple terms and gives examples. I am so anxious to read more. She is always saying "in a later chapter". It's killing me...I want to know now. lol

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?

I have to say better.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?

On page 112 with 110 left to go.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.

Brand new book. I have done some underlining in pencil so that makes it unique to me.

Reading Kate Remembered by A. Scott Berg

1. Where did you get this book?
Bought it at a library book sale

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?
Costed some change...$3 for as many books as you can stuff into a bag. $25.95 cover price

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?
It was next in line in my TBR pile

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?
About 2 months

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?
I love the conversations in the book. Not so happy about the parts where the author writes pages about people other than the subject of the book. I don't need to know the life history of all her friends. Just hers, that's why I picked the book.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?
Neither.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?
On page 199...171 to go

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.
Many pages are dog-eared, but not sure why. Maybe place markers. Was used as a coaster as well, coffee ring on the back.

The Anatomy of Ghosts by Andrew Taylor

1. Where did you get this book? ARC via Shelf Awareness newsletter

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book? free, no price marked

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW? had read through everything I had planned to read, and was suddenly in a mood to read this, for no real reason

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table? been in a stack of books on the floor for about a month now

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book? There have been some very funny moments vis a vis college life at Cambridge. I have been a little disappointed; I knew that the protagonist was going to be involved in a ghost debunking of sorts, but, because he was a bookseller, I expected there to be more about the world of books in the novel. There hasn't been much of that, and I'm a little disappointed. Not a complaint about the craft of the novel: just a letdown in my expectations.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be? It's not quite as good as I'd hoped it would be, but it's by no means bad. I'll probably recommended it to a couple of people.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go? Not sure of the exact page number as I don't have it to hand at the moment, but I'm on chapter 34.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique. Not used, but I'm adding my own underlining as I go. The next person who reads my copy can answer this question :)

Currently blasting through:

The Ghost of Sleath by James Herbert

Bought this for £1 in a charity shop this summer just gone. Picked up this novel because I wanted to read a novel to contrast from the Science books I have been stuck on, and what a nice change to.
I love books that explore paranormal phenomena especially by Herbert because he does his research and knows his stuff.
I know when a book is good because I can't put it down, I started this one Thursday and now I am into the last chapter. It is about a ghost haunting a ghost and you have murder and love added to the mix.
I also enjoy finding new words and this one brought me, Revenants

here is a google tool that helps you see how popular any word is in English:

http://ngrams.googlelabs.com/graph?content=Revenants&year_start=1800&yea...

1. Where did you get this book? I think it was the library.

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book? It wouldn't have cost me anything.

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW? My son actually picked it out for me to read.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table? Ages and ages.

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?

I am enjoying the way it is making me remember when my children were in their first year. There really isn't something I don't like about it, yet

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be? Better than I had expected.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go? On page 258 with only 65 pages to go.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique. Even though this book is used and printed in 1985 it looks brand new. I have tried to keep it in the same condition.

But...but...jacx...WHAT are you reading??

#19...How big was this bag of yours and how many books did you get in there? Sounds like it was your lucky day.

#20...Thanks for the google link. I never knew this existed.

#23...I was going to keep it a secret but seeing you asked. Good Morning Merry Sunshine by Bob Greene

And good morning to you, too. ;-)

I have two more minutes until it is morning here.

My Cup Runneth Over by Cherry Whytock

1. Where did you get this book? At the Whitby Library.

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book? Not a cent. The price on the book is $23.95. Can you believe it?

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW? It was on top of a little pile of books I had on my desk.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table? 9 days.

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book? I can't stop laughing. Nothing yet.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be? Much much much better

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go? On page 34 with 129 left.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique. It's a withdrawn book from the library so it is marked on the inside with big blue ink saying so and covered in thick plastic.

#24...paper grocery bag, i fit about 15 books in it. Definitely my lucky day. My favorite time of year, the Library Book Sale!

Now reading staying sane a book written by psychiatrist Raj Persaud.
Three chapters in I enjoy books like this one its informative I just found that my EQ is up there with my IQ.

Here is the link for anyone wanting to check it out:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Staying-Sane-Dr-Raj-Persaud/dp/0553818988

Too Much Happiness by Alice Munro

1. Where did you get this book? My husband got it at Shoppers Drug Mart.

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book? The cost on the book is $20.00. I hope he didn't pay that much.

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW? It was my Christmas gift. I have to read a gift before I read something else.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table? I think he picked it up the night before Christmas. So I will say Dec. 24 2010.

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book? I am enjoying the flow of the book but not liking the way the stories are ending.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be? I would have to say it is worse than expected.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go? I am on page 177 with 226 left to read.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique. It was a new book nothing special about it.

Just finished reading Nabokov's Lolita, which I wanted to reread for inspiration as I work on a challenging chapter of my memoir which deals with my turbulent teenage years. I was not disappointed! My full review can be read at my blog, www.the-reading-list.com

The 1% Solution For Work and Life by Tom Connellan

1. Where did you get this book?

Early Reviewer mailed from Cohoes, New York

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?

Did not cost me anything and there is no price on the book.

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?

It was set aside for me to read since it arrived in the mail.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?

Since January 9, 2011

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?

I am enjoying the dialog.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?

Better. I requested this book so I could learn something. The dialog is making this a fun and enjoyable read.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?

On page 44 and there are 153 pages in this book. You can do the math.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.

This is a new book but on the back of the book it is telling about future radio stations where the book will be talked about, their reviews from top print reviewers, tv show it will hosted on, newspaper articles, where it it it will be displayed, how it isll distruibute to major syndicators, their blog tour, new blogs, and the social media. Rather interesting.

The Bone People by Keri Hulme

1. Where did you get this book?
From Barnes&Noble.

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?
Full Price--$16

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?
I was wondering what to read next and it caught my eye as I was glancing at my bookshelf.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?
A few months.

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?
The three main protagonists are all very interesting. There isn't anything I don't like about the book yet.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?
Better.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?
Page 309 out of 545--236 pages to go.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.
I bought it new from the bookstore so there's not much about it that's unique. I really love the cover art though. It's what attracted me to the book in the first place.

I just finished reading The Paris Review Interviews, III. What a marvellous find! It's like all these brilliant authors are sitting with you over a glass of wine, discussing everything from their daily writing habits to their most intimate sources of inspiration. I particularly loved what Joyce Carol Oates had to say about using old photographs.... More reflections at my blog at www.the-reading-list.com

Blinde wilg, slapende vrouw by Murakami (Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman)

1. Where did you get this book?
I bought it in the bookshop I work in.

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?
I got an employee's discount.

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?
I read it now, because I'm going to a lecture and/or discussion about this book next saturday.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?
It has been in my posession for about 3 weeks

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?
It is a story collection. The stories are quite standard Murakami-stuff, but they have a way of creeping up on me. Almost each one has at least one notable thought or sentence and almost all keep me thinking after I finished. However, I think the stories are a bit short.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?
I didn't have much expectations about this book. So, better I think.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?
On page 162, a little over 300 to go. I need to read faster!

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.
My own scribblings and lines make it unique.

Lets have a go:
Getting to know the general by Graham Greene

1. Where did you get this book?
Not sure - it's a long-stay resident from the TBR shelf. Looks as though I bought it new.

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?
It's marked GBP 5.99 - if I bought it in Holland I probably paid a bit more than that.

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?
Every now and then I try to read a few of the things that have "stuck" in TBR-land and keep getting overlooked - this one looked like a quick undemanding read and it's only a Penguin so it won't come to any serious harm on the bus.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?
The author bio mentions Greene's death, so I must have bought it after 1991. Probably early to mid 1990s.

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?
+ It's Greene, writing intelligently about a real-life adventure
- It's Greene towards the end of his career, feeling a bit sorry for himself

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?
Better

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?
64 - 128 pages to go

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.
A bit dusty and some yellowing of the pages, but otherwise it looks new.

The Case for God Karen Armstrong

1. Where did you get this book?
I bought it in a bookshop.

2. How much did it cost you? £8.99
What is the price on the book? £8.99

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?
With so many to read I have several on the go and just wanted to read something on theology which is change from the books on cosmology and psychology that I have been indulging in.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?
I bought it in October 2010 so only about 10 weeks on my bookshelf.

5. So far, what do you like best about this book?
The book is an excellent tour de force of Religious history in the West. She seems to imply that religion sprang from man's awe at the natural world. And what she says about Ancient rock art is in synch with much of what Hancock said about it in his book Supernatural.

What don't you like about this book?
Nothing

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?
I invariably suspend judgement when reading books it tends to spoil it somewhat.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?
On page 181 last page is on 376.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.
The book was bought new by me but like with all my books I put my name in to it and the place and time bought. I also highlight information that I find useful and want to put onto my pc.

Millions by Frank Cottrell Boyce

1. Where did you get this book?

A used book store in town called the New Friendship Book Store

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?

The price on the book is $12.99 and I got it for Free. It was amongst a bunch of books in a crate that were free for the taking.

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?

It jumped out at me. Even though I don't like the cover.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?

Since November 24, 2010

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?

I am enjoying the many times I have had to laugh. There are times when the boys seem too clever for thier age and then too childish other times.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?

Better.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?

I am on page 216 and have 44 pages to go.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.

There is nothing really special about this book. Although I got it at a used book store it doesn't seem used at all.

Second Variety The collected stories volume two
P.K. Dick

1. Where did you get this book?

At a second hand book shop close to where I live.

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?

It cost me £2.50 Price on book is £6.99 and my edition is a 1996 paper back.

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?

Just wanted to get started on a P.K. Dick book its the first I have read and have to say his stories are enjoyable.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?

Since One month.

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?

I love Sci Fi and he was one of the best Sc Fi writers to ever put pen to paper.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?

Much Better that I could have hoped for.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?

I am on page 95 page 493 ends the book another 400 to go or there abouts.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.

It is rather well worn with a lot of discolouration but that does not put me off reading it.

The Wrecked, Blessed Body of Shelton Lafleur by John Gregory Brown

1. Where did you get this book?

Picked it up at a local library for free. It is a discarded library book.

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?

It didn't cost me anything but the price on the book is.$16.00 Canadian and $12.00 U.S.

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?

My husband read it not too long ago and recommended it to me.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?

Since October 10, 2009

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?

I am enjoying the language and imagery of this book. I can not find anything yet that I don't like about this book.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?

It is so much better that what I thought. Even though my husband said that I would enjoy it, I didn't think that I would love it as much as I do. I think it will end up being one of my favorite books of all time.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?

I am on page 110 and there are 257 pages.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.

Except for the usual markings of a withdrawn library book there is nothing that is unique about it.

I just started reading Finding the Words: Writers on Inspiration, Desire, War, Celebrity, Exile, and Breaking the Rules, which I bought at the PEN Canada book launch a couple weeks ago. These essays and interviews are delightful - I just finished reading the conversation between Alice Munro and Diana Athill where they reflect on the risks of writing about people you know and the writer's sense of self-exposure (something that is suddenly on my mind....) My full review can be read at www.the-reading-list.com

The Yellow-Lighted Bookshop by Lewis Buzbee

1. Where did you get this book?
Carnegie book shop in Edwardsville, IL library

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?
It was only 50 cents. Hardbacks are 50 cents and paperbacks are 5 for $1

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?
I love to spend hours in a bookstore, so this title jumped out at me.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?
I've had it a couple of weeks

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?
The book so describes my love for books and the joy searching and finding that special one.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?
It has exceeded my expectations and I am enjoying every page.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?
I'm on page 60, with 156 to go.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.
There is a label inside designating it as a gift in memory of Kirk Ventura July 2006.

The Yellow-Lighted Bookshop by Lewis Buzbee sounds like the perfect book for me.

Right now I am reading Invisible River by Helena McEwen

1. Where did you get this book?
It was an Early Reviewer from Alona Fryman of Bloomsburypress.com

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?
It was absolutely free.

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?
It was an early reviewer and I like to read them as soon as I am finished the book that I am reading.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?
Just a few days.

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?
I llike the imagery. What I don't like about it is that there is too much imagery.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?
It is worse. :(

7. What page are you on NOW?
I am on page 46 with 255 long pages to go.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.
Nothing unique about this one.

Just began reading Monica Ali's Brick Lane, which I've been wanting to read for some time. This story of two Bangladeshi sisters and their varying fates on the marriage market - the one accepting an arranged marriage, the other pursuing a love marriage - is fascinating and reminiscent of Jane Austen, an edgier version. Split between an ethnic ghetto in London and an ever vanishing sense of "homeland," the heroine's plight reminds me of my great grandmother's, according to stories my grandmother told me (she also had an arranged marriage after being sent to Oregon from Japan and her life has caught hold in my imagination....)

Ex Lit Prof
www.the-reading-list.com

I have just started to read In the shadow of the Prophet by Milton Viorst it gives a deep insight into the nature of Islam and the problems it faces in today's world.

http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=uRBstsdV6EgC&dq=In+the+shadow+of+the+prop...

1. Where did you get this book?
I cannot remember

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?
I can't remember that either although inside it has £4.95 written in pencil at the back on the inside cover.

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?
I was reading Staying Sane and it was driving me mad. I have two shelf full of books that I have not yet read, so I had a look and this one took my fancy.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?
I have no idea but think it is less than a year.

5. So far, what do you like best about this book?
I have only just finished reading the first chapter I get the feeling that the author has done a great deal of research on Islam and he has travelled extensively through out the ME.

What don't you like about this book?
Nothing

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?
Never judge a book by its cover

7. What page are you on NOW?
31 and it goes upto 354

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.

It is used as you hold the up so you can see the pages you can see a stain there, apart from that it is in very good condition. I was pleasantly surprised to find a really nice leather book marker in it which depicts a battle during the crusades.

I am nearly finished Matrix Warrior by Jake Horsley it is a Critique of the first Matrix Film and it is one of the best books I have ever read. It starts of with the premise: What if we are living in a simulation.

You can read it here but having it in your library to my mind is surely better:

http://www.cosmic-people.com/english/svetelna_knihovna/htm/en/en_kniha_matrix_wa...

The book and some excellent reviews here:

http://www.amazon.com/Matrix-Warrior-Being-Jake-Horsley/dp/031232264X

1. Where did you get this book?
From a boot sale

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?

50P

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?
I began to up load my entire library to this site and this book has been sitting on the shelf for two years it just grabbed me and I began to read it.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?

Since the summer of 2009

5. So far, what do you like best about this book?

The profound philosophy it just feels write and to use a phrase from the book is very very lucid.

What don't you like about this book?

The fact I had it sitting there all that time and time for all of us is running out.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?

Its one of the best books I have read to date and I have read a lot of books.

7. What page are you on NOW?

192 it goes upto 232

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.

It is a book that was withdrawn from a library and has the original library ticket and stamp in it still.

The Ivy Tree by Mary Stewart
1. Where did you get this book? probably from a flea mall - that's normally where I get these

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book? $1.00

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW? I love this author and forgot I had this book plus I don't think I've read it before

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table? months

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book? I love the idea that she's mistaken for someone who looks like her that has origins in the same area.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?
better
7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?
25
8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.

It's a pretty clean copy and in great condition especially for an older book.

Just finished Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury.

1. Where did you get this book? Got it from BookMooch

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book? No price since I mooched it

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?I had always heard about it of course, so I looked it up here on LT and found the description terribly interesting and so appropriate for my generation (I'm 23)

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?Not long at all, maybe a few weeks

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?I absolutely love how Ray Bradbury drops you right into this futuristic world without any explanation about the strange things around you. The messages within the book are not preachy, but gave me a type of "light bulb" moment. I wish it was a bit longer, I've seen in articles that Bradbury had additional details that he wished to add later which would have been interesting

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?Better! Bradbury's writing reminds me a bit of George Orwell in 1984 and that is one of my all-time favorites.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go? Just finished! Also watched the movie immediately after (though of course it could not do the book justice)

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique. I think it is unique first because I got it off of BookMooch, but also because it is in good condition. For the age of the book, I would have thought that it would have several markings from being read (perhaps it has not been read that much...how appropriate for the book!)

Just began to read The Way Of All Flesh by Samuel Butler

1. Where did you get this book?
My local Newsagent

2. How much did it cost you?
I think it was £4:99 there is no price on the book.

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?
Having just read some books on the nature of reality, life after death etc I wanted to lose myself in a novel, a classic so went and picked one from my classic bookshelf.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?
Since 1987

5. So far, what do you like best about this book?
I am only several chapters in I am already enjoying the theme which appears to be about a guy who has entered the life of a 19th century clergymen. I like the way the writer skilfully mentions Horace, Plato etc

What don't you like about this book?
Only the fact that I never read it earlier.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?
I had no expectations either way.

7. What page are you on NOW?
page 74 with another 330 to go.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.

I bought it new, its leather bound, there is some discolouration to the edge of the pages at the start and at the end of the book. I have been told this is due to a chemical reaction in the paper instigated by light.

I am reading Doctor Confidential; Secrets Behind the Veil by Richard Sheff, MD

1. Where did you get this book?
It was an early reviewer from Librarything.

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?

It didn't cost me anything. The price of this book in the US is $16.95.

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?

I had just finished another early reviewer and this was was waiting patiently on my desk for weeks. I could't ignore it any longer.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?

I would say the beginning of April 2011

5. So far, what do you like best about this book?

What I am liking best is the "realization" of the book.

What don't you like about this book?

I wish I hadn't waited so long to read it.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?

I thought that it would be a lot of medical mumbo jumbo and I would find myself lost. It is far better than I expected because it explains everything so clearly.

7. What page are you on NOW?

I am on page 90 and there are 342. you can do the math. I am too tired this evening.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.

The only thing that is really unique about this book is that it is an Advanced Reader's Copy.

The Origin and Evolution of Mammals by T. S. Kemp.

1. Where did you get this book?

Bokus.se (an online retailer)

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?

~415 SEK (~70 USD)

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?

I had finished the previous non-fiction book I'd been reading: couldn't tell you why I picked this particular one from the TBR pile.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?

I got it in March; began reading in late April.

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?

I like the way it's accessible to the educated layman without being dumbed down. I don't like the rather frequent typos.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?

I'd say it meets my fairly high expectations.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?

Posting from work, so can't tell you exact page. I'm about halfway through.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.

N/A

I just finished reading Damon Galgut's The Good Doctor, which I was reading partly for inspiration in starting my new novel. My great grandfather was a doctor in the internment camps of British Columbia during the Second World War, and I've often wondered about whether he felt any ambivalence about his role in facilitating the Internment (he himself was Japanese-Canadian, to make matters more complex). Galgut's novel about two doctors grappling with social/ethical issues in the South African context appealed to me based on reviews I'd read and I was not disappointed. More reflections at my blog, www.the-reading-list.com

The Adventures of Augie March by Saul Bellow

1. Audible.com
2. I pay 15.00/month for two books
3. To read a Saul Bellow book has been on my "to do" list for a while. I finally just decided to do it!
4. It was in my phone storage for just about a month.
5. I enjoy the conversations the young protagonist has with himself - always second-guessing or unsure of himself. I like the narrative style, very smooth. There is nothing I don't like...I will highly recommend this book.
6. The book is much better than I thought it would be.
7. I don't have pages with an audible book, but I am on the third download with about 6 hours to go.
8. I am a big fan of audio books. I started reading them in earnest about 4 years ago, when I got tired of listening to music. With an hour commute each way I realized I could get about 2 hours of reading in a day. I've been doing it ever since. When one book ends, a new one immediately is begun. What really makes an audio book unique is the narrator. The voice has to fit the book. A great example of this is Nabokov's Lolita...with Jeremy Irons as the narrator, I was absolutely entranced. His voice was so buttery smooth, it was creepy...just like the subject matter of the book. No one but Jeremy Irons, at least in my mind, could read Lolita outloud like that. So, for me, it's all in the narration - to grab you, to keep you, and to bring you to the end of the tale.

The Hunt by Allison Brennan

1. Where did you get this book?

From a good friend.

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?

It didn't cost me anything. The original price of the book is $9.99. My friend probably paid half price for it.

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?

I wasn't feeling well when I picked up the first book of the series because I knew that it would be a fast read and I would enjoy it. Seeing this is the second book of the series I thought it best to read it now.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?

I believe I got it on May 17th. So it hasn't been in my possession for long.

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?

I think this book is moving faster than the first one, which I like. Right now there is nothing not to like.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?

So far I think it is a bit better than what I was anticipating.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?

I am on page 88 and there are 391 pages in the book.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.

It is a used book so the store name in printed on the inside cover. Other than nothing is unique about it.

Okay: Galileo's Dream by Kim Stanley Robinson

1. Where did you get this book?

I got it from our local Border's during its closing everything-must-go-sale a couple of months ago.

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book?

I think the original price was $16. I got it for 40% off, so around $10.

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?

Because it is the newest book I had waiting on my To Read shelf and I tend to read the new ones first (i.e., not a used book from BookMooch).

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?

No more than a couple of months.

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? What don't you like about this book?

I really love the scenes on Jupiter's moons. The descriptions of the moons and Jupiter itself are awe-inspiring. The Jupiter scenes are also packed with action.

By contrast, the scenes that take place in Galileo's lifetime are a bit slow and sometimes it's hard to remember who is who with all the unfamiliar Italian names/titles. Also, I think Robinson has a tendency to throw around $5 words, which annoys me a little.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?

Well, I've both loved and hated Robinson in the past, so I'm glad that the book is entertaining and I want to keep reading.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?

I think I'm around page 300, so I probably have another 100-150 pages left (it's not right next to me).

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.

It's unique because I snagged it along with a lot of other literary science fiction from Border's before anyone else managed to. Not to dance on the grave or anything, but I got quite the haul.

The book is: Making Miracles by Dr Paul Pearsall

http://www.librarything.com/work/11124760/71743823

1. Where did you get this book?

Its second hand so I either picked it up at a charity shop or at a car boot sale.

2. How much did it cost you?

Not more than 50p

What is the price on the book?

$20

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW?

I have been reading the novels of One Philip K. Dick and wanted to read something related.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table?

No idea, normally I put the time and place of purchase in my books but alas not with this one.

5. So far, what do you like best about this book?

I like the fact that the author, who was a scientist explores his own near death experiences. And in doing so comes to realize there is far more to life than the current materialistic, reductionist paradigm leads us to believe.

What don't you like about this book?

Nothing

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be?

Its excellent its the type of book that makes we experience the ahaaa factor.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go?

105 another 201

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.

Well someone else did scribble in it, they underlined key passages and aphorisms. I just use a highliter it makes it so much easier to then go back to the book when using it for reference at a later date.

Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy trilogy

1. Amazon.com

2.$4!! I buy all my books used, usually I try to keep it less then ten dollars with shipping and everything. The book itself was $.01 and shipping was $3.00

3. I've always wanted to read this series because it's my favorite movie and I read the first paragraph online and knew I would love it. Plus I was getting sick of reading all my books on my kindle and wanted an actual book to hold on to and add to my library! =)

4. Well I got it a couple of days ago.

5. It's hilarious and I love getting more details into what is actually going on that the movie misses. I didn't like it that it took me a while to get all the images of the movie out of my head and begin to really see the story on my own terms (if that makes sense).

6. It's good, not better or worse. I enjoy it the amount that I thought I would.

7. I just finished the first series today and waiting for the second book to get to my house.

8. It is a use book, and one of the mass produced books. But there are no marks on it at all. I have a thing about buying used book where I can't have any sort of highlighting or marks on the pages. I like knowing that I'm not wasting paper by buying a brand new book but I am picky about my used books. I guess it's unique because although it is used it looks like I am the first one to even bend the binding part of the book.

Gotrek and Felix: The Second Omnibus by William King

1. I borrowed this book from a friend

2. I borrowed it so I didnt buy anything

3. I was wondering what to read next and my friend recommended this book. He knew I was a big fan of the Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini and Codex Alera by Jim Butcher and thought this book was similar in many ways. I thought what the heck, it sounds good!

4. Its been sitting in my house for about a week.

5. I love how the book is set in the future but has a lot of medival references. If you're a big fan of action/scifi books, you'll love this book. But, I suggest reading the First Omnibus before the Second...i've already finished the First and i'm hooked!

6. It's waaaaay better than i thought. Right now i'm on Beastslayer, the 2nd book of the 2nd omnibus. Here are the books in there order: First Omnibus (Trollslayer, Skavenslayer, Daemonslayer) Second Omnibus (Dragonslayer, Beastslayer, Vampireslayer) Third Omnibus (Giantslayer, Orcslayer, Manslayer) Fourth Omnibus**in the works** (Elfslayer, Shamanslayer, Zombieslayer)
When you first start off with Trollslayer, the story isn't that good due to lack of plot...but stick w/ it! The series takes a major turn in Skavenslayer, a plot is formed , and from there on the books get better and better. Unfortuneately, starting with Orcslayer, a new author takes William King's place, named Nathan Long. From what i've heard thats when the story starts to get worse. I'm only on Beastslayer and intend to read Nathan Long regardless....i hope u will too!

7. I'm on page 423 and have 343 pages to go

1. Where did you get this book? A friend loaned it to me.

2. How much did it cost you? What is the price on the book? It didn't cost me anything and there is no price on the book.

3. Why did you pick this book to read NOW? It was on top of the pile of books my friends had given me.

4. How long has it been on your shelf/home/table? Since October 2010.

5. So far, what do you like best about this book? It's fast paced.

6. So far, is it better or worse than you thought it would be? Better.

7. What page are you on NOW? How many pages left to go? I am on page 38 and there are 272 pages.

8. If this was a used book maybe someone has highlighted parts, written down their own name, it could have been given as a gift and written on it from and to someone, or maybe they just doodled in it. Tell us what make your book unique.

I haven't found anything unique yet.

Jacq what book is it you are reading?