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2porch_reader
A list of books read in 2010:
COMING SOON!
COMING SOON!
3porch_reader
A list of favorite books from 2010:
The Moonflower Vine – Jetta Carlson
Theodore Roosevelt: A Life – Nathan Miller
Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet – Jamie Ford
Messenger – Lois Lowry
The Shadow of the Wind – Carlos Ruiz Zafon
A Gate at the Stairs – Lorrie Moore
The Unnamed – Joshua Ferris
Both Ways Is The Only Way I Want It – Maile Meloy
The Wild Things – Dave Eggers
The Help – Kathryn Stockett
Pomegranate Soup – Marsha Mehran
Beatrice and Virgil – Yann Martel
The Red Pyramid – Rick Riordan
A Game of Thrones – George R. R. Martin
Stones Into Schools – Greg Mortenson
The Vagrants – Yiyun Li
To Kill a Mockingbird – Harper Lee
Sailing With Noah: Stories from the World of Zoos – Jeffrey P. Bonner
Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand – Helen Simonson
This Is Graceanne’s Book – P. L. Whitney
Bury Your Dead – Louise Penny
Island of the Blue Dolphins – Scott O’Dell
The Horse Boy: A Father’s Quest to Heal His Son – Rupert Isaacson
Let the Great World Spin – Colum McCann
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – J. K. Rowling
Blindness – Jose Saramago
Gardens of Water – Alan Drew
Mrs. Bridge – Evan Connell
How to Read the Air – Dinaw Mengestu
The Imperfectionists – Tom Rachman
Amigoland – Oscar Casares
The Moonflower Vine – Jetta Carlson
Theodore Roosevelt: A Life – Nathan Miller
Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet – Jamie Ford
Messenger – Lois Lowry
The Shadow of the Wind – Carlos Ruiz Zafon
A Gate at the Stairs – Lorrie Moore
The Unnamed – Joshua Ferris
Both Ways Is The Only Way I Want It – Maile Meloy
The Wild Things – Dave Eggers
The Help – Kathryn Stockett
Pomegranate Soup – Marsha Mehran
Beatrice and Virgil – Yann Martel
The Red Pyramid – Rick Riordan
A Game of Thrones – George R. R. Martin
Stones Into Schools – Greg Mortenson
The Vagrants – Yiyun Li
To Kill a Mockingbird – Harper Lee
Sailing With Noah: Stories from the World of Zoos – Jeffrey P. Bonner
Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand – Helen Simonson
This Is Graceanne’s Book – P. L. Whitney
Bury Your Dead – Louise Penny
Island of the Blue Dolphins – Scott O’Dell
The Horse Boy: A Father’s Quest to Heal His Son – Rupert Isaacson
Let the Great World Spin – Colum McCann
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – J. K. Rowling
Blindness – Jose Saramago
Gardens of Water – Alan Drew
Mrs. Bridge – Evan Connell
How to Read the Air – Dinaw Mengestu
The Imperfectionists – Tom Rachman
Amigoland – Oscar Casares
4porch_reader
Book #121 - The Next Queen of Heaven - Gregory Maguire - Finished November 5, 2010
Category: fiction
Pages: 347
I'm a fan of Gregory Maguire's books. I enjoy his alternative views of stories like the Wizard of Oz, Snow White, or Cinderella. But this book is quite a bit different than the others that I've read. In The Next Queen of Heaven, Maguire tells the story of the residents of the small town of Thebes, NY in the final months of 1999. Two storylines are woven together. Teenager Tabitha Scales struggles to care for her mother after she is hit on the head by a falling statue in the Catholic Church, while the Catholic choir director Jeremy Carr prepares for Christmas and cares for his friend Sean who is HIV Positive. Although this is a book about real people, not wicked queens or wizards, the town of Thebes is anything but ordinary.
For the most part, I enjoyed this book. The main characters, Tabitha and Jeremy, are flawed and interesting. The supporting cast, especially the nuns, add depth and sometimes humor to the book. But I was never quite certain what to think of the story. Maguire creates a story that blends real life with some out-of-the-ordinary events that kept me feeling a bit off balance. At times, I was expecting some supernatural event to bring the book to the end, but the ending was surprising and somehow fitting.
I'm glad that I read this one, but I guardedly recommend it. I think it is one of those books that will delight some and frustrate others.
Category: fiction
Pages: 347
I'm a fan of Gregory Maguire's books. I enjoy his alternative views of stories like the Wizard of Oz, Snow White, or Cinderella. But this book is quite a bit different than the others that I've read. In The Next Queen of Heaven, Maguire tells the story of the residents of the small town of Thebes, NY in the final months of 1999. Two storylines are woven together. Teenager Tabitha Scales struggles to care for her mother after she is hit on the head by a falling statue in the Catholic Church, while the Catholic choir director Jeremy Carr prepares for Christmas and cares for his friend Sean who is HIV Positive. Although this is a book about real people, not wicked queens or wizards, the town of Thebes is anything but ordinary.
For the most part, I enjoyed this book. The main characters, Tabitha and Jeremy, are flawed and interesting. The supporting cast, especially the nuns, add depth and sometimes humor to the book. But I was never quite certain what to think of the story. Maguire creates a story that blends real life with some out-of-the-ordinary events that kept me feeling a bit off balance. At times, I was expecting some supernatural event to bring the book to the end, but the ending was surprising and somehow fitting.
I'm glad that I read this one, but I guardedly recommend it. I think it is one of those books that will delight some and frustrate others.
5nittnut
Hello! Hey, I'm the first one here!
I don't think I've read any Gregory Maguire. I love alternative fairy tales, generally. I will have to check him out.
I don't think I've read any Gregory Maguire. I love alternative fairy tales, generally. I will have to check him out.
6alcottacre
Found you again, Amy!
7BookAngel_a
I found you again as well...
8porch_reader
Hi Jenn, Stasia, and Angela! I'm glad to see all of you here!
9porch_reader
Book #122 - The House on Mango Street - Sandra Cisneros - Finished November 6, 2010
Category: fiction
Pages: 110
Esperanza Cordero is an adolescent girl growing up in a Latino neighborhood in Chicago. With each brief chapter, some no more than a few sentences, we learn a bit about Esperanza, her friends, her neighbors. Alone, these brief chapters are no more than quick snapshots, but together they paint a portrait of a girl who is uncomfortable in her situation, who doesn’t want to be a part of this neighborhood.
In some ways, this is a traditional coming-of-age story. But it is the style in which the book is written that makes it unique. Cisneros is a poet. It took me a few chapters to figure out that this book should be read like poetry, slowly, savoring the rhythm, the words, the complexity of the feelings conveyed. I’m searching for the perfect passage to illustrate this. Maybe this one, from near the end of the book, will do:
“We didn’t always live on Mango Street. Before that we lived on Loomis on the third floor, and before that we lived on Keeler. Before Keeler it was Paulina, but what I remember most is Mango Street, sad red house, the house I belong but do not belong to.”
This is a short book filled with feeling. Definitely worth the read.
Category: fiction
Pages: 110
Esperanza Cordero is an adolescent girl growing up in a Latino neighborhood in Chicago. With each brief chapter, some no more than a few sentences, we learn a bit about Esperanza, her friends, her neighbors. Alone, these brief chapters are no more than quick snapshots, but together they paint a portrait of a girl who is uncomfortable in her situation, who doesn’t want to be a part of this neighborhood.
In some ways, this is a traditional coming-of-age story. But it is the style in which the book is written that makes it unique. Cisneros is a poet. It took me a few chapters to figure out that this book should be read like poetry, slowly, savoring the rhythm, the words, the complexity of the feelings conveyed. I’m searching for the perfect passage to illustrate this. Maybe this one, from near the end of the book, will do:
“We didn’t always live on Mango Street. Before that we lived on Loomis on the third floor, and before that we lived on Keeler. Before Keeler it was Paulina, but what I remember most is Mango Street, sad red house, the house I belong but do not belong to.”
This is a short book filled with feeling. Definitely worth the read.
10alcottacre
#9: I have seen that one numerous times at my local library. I need to pick it up one of these days!
12porch_reader
Stasia and Jenn - The House on Mango Street is a quick read. I hope you enjoy it when you get to it!
13porch_reader
Book #123 - Ape House - Sara Gruen - Finished November 7, 2010
Category: audio
Pages: 320
I rarely begin a book without some expectations – based on previous books by the author, things that I’ve read or heard about the book’s subject matter, or reviews that I’ve read. In this case, I had read and loved Gruen’s Water for Elephants, and I was excited to read a book about language acquisition in great apes. I started listening to the audio book, Ape House, with high expectations – perhaps a bit too high.
This book didn’t quite live up to my expectations. With that said, I did enjoy it. I was fascinated by the parts about the bonobos and their skill at language use. I would have been satisfied by a book about them, the people who work with them, the people who support such research, and the people who oppose it. Gruen gives us a bit of that. But I found myself impatiently listening to the parts about the two main human characters – Isabel (who works with the apes) and John (a reporter covering their story). While they are clearly an important part of the bonobos’ story, I felt that Gruen sometimes spent too much time on their problems, relationships, etc. I especially had a difficult time sympathizing with John.
If I had gone into this book with fewer expectations, I think I would have considered it a good read. But I expected a compelling story centered around the bonobos and felt that Ape House fell a little short of that.
By the way, after writing this, I read Tina’s (tututhefirst) excellent review of this book. She hit the nail on the head. She also mentioned that she didn’t like the narrator of the audio book. I agree! I almost stopped listening. That could have colored my experience of the book.
Category: audio
Pages: 320
I rarely begin a book without some expectations – based on previous books by the author, things that I’ve read or heard about the book’s subject matter, or reviews that I’ve read. In this case, I had read and loved Gruen’s Water for Elephants, and I was excited to read a book about language acquisition in great apes. I started listening to the audio book, Ape House, with high expectations – perhaps a bit too high.
This book didn’t quite live up to my expectations. With that said, I did enjoy it. I was fascinated by the parts about the bonobos and their skill at language use. I would have been satisfied by a book about them, the people who work with them, the people who support such research, and the people who oppose it. Gruen gives us a bit of that. But I found myself impatiently listening to the parts about the two main human characters – Isabel (who works with the apes) and John (a reporter covering their story). While they are clearly an important part of the bonobos’ story, I felt that Gruen sometimes spent too much time on their problems, relationships, etc. I especially had a difficult time sympathizing with John.
If I had gone into this book with fewer expectations, I think I would have considered it a good read. But I expected a compelling story centered around the bonobos and felt that Ape House fell a little short of that.
By the way, after writing this, I read Tina’s (tututhefirst) excellent review of this book. She hit the nail on the head. She also mentioned that she didn’t like the narrator of the audio book. I agree! I almost stopped listening. That could have colored my experience of the book.
14tututhefirst
Amy, it's such a shame when you have to agree with people about books that don't quite make it. I still would recommend the book, but you are correct that expectations need to be adjusted when recommending.
15alcottacre
#13: I will probably get around to that one eventually. It is too bad the book is not better because I loved Water for Elephants.
16bonniebooks
The house I belong but not belong to
I love that. It's how I feel about the first house in my life.
I love that. It's how I feel about the first house in my life.
17porch_reader
#14 Tina - Yes, I would recommend Ape House to most people too, but I think it helps to go in not expecting another Water for Elephants.
#15 Stasia - I'll be interested to hear what you think about Ape House when it makes its way out of the black hole.
#16 Bonnie - I agree! Cisneros's writing is beautiful!
#15 Stasia - I'll be interested to hear what you think about Ape House when it makes its way out of the black hole.
#16 Bonnie - I agree! Cisneros's writing is beautiful!
18porch_reader
Book #124 - The History of Love - Nicole Krauss - Finished November 12, 2010
Category: fiction
Pages: 252
I loved this book! It is going to be hard for me to describe why, so you might be better off to stop reading right here. Just go put this one on your TBR list (if it's not there already).
OK, if you are still with me, I'll try to share just a bit about this book. Krauss intertwines the stories of Leo Gursky, an aging New Yorker who came to the United States from Poland during World War II, and Alma Singer, a teenaged girl whose mother translates books. At first, the book feels a bit disjointed, jumping between characters and from past to present. But as the story unfolds, unexpected connections arise between characters and events. In the end, the pieces fall together in a way that makes perfect sense.
So, the plot is intriguing. (It reminds me a little of The Shadow of the Wind actually.) And the characters practically jump from the pages, coming to life with only a few details. But I think it is the writing that made this a memorable read for me. Krauss writes a story that I sank into everytime I picked up the book. I was sorry to turn the last page.
I highly recommend this book!
Category: fiction
Pages: 252
I loved this book! It is going to be hard for me to describe why, so you might be better off to stop reading right here. Just go put this one on your TBR list (if it's not there already).
OK, if you are still with me, I'll try to share just a bit about this book. Krauss intertwines the stories of Leo Gursky, an aging New Yorker who came to the United States from Poland during World War II, and Alma Singer, a teenaged girl whose mother translates books. At first, the book feels a bit disjointed, jumping between characters and from past to present. But as the story unfolds, unexpected connections arise between characters and events. In the end, the pieces fall together in a way that makes perfect sense.
So, the plot is intriguing. (It reminds me a little of The Shadow of the Wind actually.) And the characters practically jump from the pages, coming to life with only a few details. But I think it is the writing that made this a memorable read for me. Krauss writes a story that I sank into everytime I picked up the book. I was sorry to turn the last page.
I highly recommend this book!
19alcottacre
#18: I am definitely going to have to try some of Krauss' work. Between your review of The History of Love and Donna's review of Great House, she is going to get bumped to the 'must read' stack.
20Donna828
>18 porch_reader:: Amy, I also loved The History of Love. I read it twice and got much more out of it the second time. Maybe I'm a slow learner?
Anyway, thanks for mentioning The Shadow of the Wind. I've had that on the TBR piles so long it may be in danger of getting moldy! It may be next year before I get to it, but that's just around the corner the way this month is going.
Anyway, thanks for mentioning The Shadow of the Wind. I've had that on the TBR piles so long it may be in danger of getting moldy! It may be next year before I get to it, but that's just around the corner the way this month is going.
21Copperskye
Hi - I seem to be stopping by new-to-me threads today. We share quite a few books! I also loved The History of Love and bought a copy so I have it to reread whenever I get to it. I still can't decide whether or not to read Ape House. I keep hearing such mixed reviews.
22nittnut
OK - I added The History of Love. You really twisted my arm too.
23bonniebooks
I loved History of Love well and want to read it again. Funny, I don't remember the teenage girl--I just remember the voice of Leo, and loved it.
24porch_reader
#19 - Stasia - Great House is on my TBR too, and now that I've read The History of Love, I'm excited to read more of Krauss's work.
#20 - Donna - As soon as I finished The History of Love, I thought I needed to re-read it. The Shadow of the Wind was the same way for me. I read it twice and picked up a lot that I'd missed the second time.
#21 - Hi Joanne! I'm glad you stopped by. I'm a frequent lurker on your thread, which is part of the reason that my TBR list is growing so fast! I understand your indecision about Ape House. There are so many good books out there. But I think Ape House is worth the 50 page test. If it doesn't grab you by page 50, move on!
#22 - Jenn - I'm so happy to add to your TBR list! I hope you like The History of Love.
#23 - Bonnie - I thought that Leo was definitely the most memorable character in The History of Love. He's the one that will stick with me.
#20 - Donna - As soon as I finished The History of Love, I thought I needed to re-read it. The Shadow of the Wind was the same way for me. I read it twice and picked up a lot that I'd missed the second time.
#21 - Hi Joanne! I'm glad you stopped by. I'm a frequent lurker on your thread, which is part of the reason that my TBR list is growing so fast! I understand your indecision about Ape House. There are so many good books out there. But I think Ape House is worth the 50 page test. If it doesn't grab you by page 50, move on!
#22 - Jenn - I'm so happy to add to your TBR list! I hope you like The History of Love.
#23 - Bonnie - I thought that Leo was definitely the most memorable character in The History of Love. He's the one that will stick with me.
25porch_reader
Book #125 - The Living Great Lakes: Searching for the Heart of the Inland Seas - Jerry Dennis - Finished November 13, 2010
Category: non-fiction
Pages: 296
For three years, my family and I lived in South Bend, Indiana. In slightly more than 30 minutes, we could be on a beach on the southeast shore of Lake Michigan. My kids dug in the sand and played in the waves, while my husband and I took pictures of sunsets and fell in love with Lake Michigan. We still vacation there often, and this year, I picked up Jerry Dennis's book at a small bookshop in Leelanau.
The Living Great Lakes is part natural history, part travel memoir, and part cautionary environmental tale. Much of the book recounts Dennis's trip from Traverse City, MI to Bangor, ME as a crewmember aboard a tall schooner. Along the way, he peppers his adventures with historical stories and present-day challenges faced by the Great Lakes. The end result is a book that helped me better understand the breadth of the impact of these lakes on the economy, the environment, and the people who take the time to find the heart of them.
Category: non-fiction
Pages: 296
For three years, my family and I lived in South Bend, Indiana. In slightly more than 30 minutes, we could be on a beach on the southeast shore of Lake Michigan. My kids dug in the sand and played in the waves, while my husband and I took pictures of sunsets and fell in love with Lake Michigan. We still vacation there often, and this year, I picked up Jerry Dennis's book at a small bookshop in Leelanau.
The Living Great Lakes is part natural history, part travel memoir, and part cautionary environmental tale. Much of the book recounts Dennis's trip from Traverse City, MI to Bangor, ME as a crewmember aboard a tall schooner. Along the way, he peppers his adventures with historical stories and present-day challenges faced by the Great Lakes. The end result is a book that helped me better understand the breadth of the impact of these lakes on the economy, the environment, and the people who take the time to find the heart of them.
26alcottacre
#25: My grandfather had a cabin on Lake Erie for many years and my family would visit him there on vacation. The Living Great Lakes sounds like one I would enjoy. Thanks for the recommendation, Amy!
27tututhefirst
I've never been to the Great Lakes region and would love to learn more about it. The living Great Lakes looks great - and---it will fill in the 508 Dewey category and Michigan for my Reading the 50 States challenge. Onto the list it goes!
28brenzi
>26 alcottacre: Well I live about 20 minutes from Lake Erie and my kids grew up on the beach both here in the US and on the Canadian side. The Living Great Lakes sounds very good Amy. Onto the pile it goes.
29porch_reader
Stasia and Bonnie - I've never been to Lake Erie. I hope to visit it someday when we are headed east!
Tina - I'm so glad to recommend a book that does "double duty"!
Tina - I'm so glad to recommend a book that does "double duty"!
30porch_reader
Like many of you, I often read more than one book at a time. I just realized that my current fiction (The Whistling Season), nonfiction (The Big Burn), and audio book (The English Major) all are set, at least in part, in Montana. I didn't plan it that way, but I like the overlap between the three. I'm considering trying to read 3-4 books with a similar theme or setting each month in 2011. I feel like I learn more when I come at a topic from several angles.
31porch_reader
Book #126 - The English Major - Jim Harrison - Finished November 17, 2010
Category: Audio
Pages: 272
Cliff, a former English teacher from Michigan, is having what might be considered a late mid-life crisis. It's hard to tell whether he's more upset by his wife's affair or the death of his dog Lola (but my money is on the dog). He decides to take a road trip with the goal to visit every state, throwing out a puzzle piece from a USA puzzle everytime he leaves one, and renaming the states and birds as he goes. Although Cliff does spend time with a few people along the way - including his son Robert, a former student, and his fishing buddy AD (alcoholic doctor) - this is mostly an internal book. There's not much action, but we learn a lot about Cliff as he tries to make sense of his life.
I think that Harrison is an extremely talented writer. His meditative style is at its finest in this book. Several times, a clever turn of phrase or an especially insightful observation made me wish that I was reading this book (rather than listening to it) so that I could go back and savor Harrison's skill.
The problem is that I did feel much connection with Cliff. He spends a lot of time thinking about sex, and even more time planning his next drink. I appreciated this book, but I felt like it was in spite of the main character.
So, if you've read Harrison before and like his style, this book is worth a read. If you haven't read Harrison, I might suggest trying True North first. Although it's been several years since I read that one, I remember enjoing both the writing and the story.
Category: Audio
Pages: 272
Cliff, a former English teacher from Michigan, is having what might be considered a late mid-life crisis. It's hard to tell whether he's more upset by his wife's affair or the death of his dog Lola (but my money is on the dog). He decides to take a road trip with the goal to visit every state, throwing out a puzzle piece from a USA puzzle everytime he leaves one, and renaming the states and birds as he goes. Although Cliff does spend time with a few people along the way - including his son Robert, a former student, and his fishing buddy AD (alcoholic doctor) - this is mostly an internal book. There's not much action, but we learn a lot about Cliff as he tries to make sense of his life.
I think that Harrison is an extremely talented writer. His meditative style is at its finest in this book. Several times, a clever turn of phrase or an especially insightful observation made me wish that I was reading this book (rather than listening to it) so that I could go back and savor Harrison's skill.
The problem is that I did feel much connection with Cliff. He spends a lot of time thinking about sex, and even more time planning his next drink. I appreciated this book, but I felt like it was in spite of the main character.
So, if you've read Harrison before and like his style, this book is worth a read. If you haven't read Harrison, I might suggest trying True North first. Although it's been several years since I read that one, I remember enjoing both the writing and the story.
32porch_reader
Book #127 - My Weird School #1: Miss Daisy Is Crazy - Dan Gutman - Finished November 19, 2010
Category: read aloud
Pages: 96
One of my favorite things is the sound of my 6-year-old son belly laughing. Matt gets a kick out of life, so I get to hear this often. Another of my favorite things is to curl up with Matt and read. I love to share a story with him before bed. So, you can imagine my joy when I get to enjoy both at the same time. Matt laughed his way through Miss Daisy Is Crazy, the first book in the My Weird School series. I had a few chuckles too. Gutman writes a good story, fast paced with lots of "cliff hangers" at the end of the chapters. Matt couldn't wait to see if A. J. and his 2nd grade classmates could read a million pages and turn the school into a video game arcade. He even put several more books from this series on his Christmas list. I'll bet Santa won't disappoint him!
Category: read aloud
Pages: 96
One of my favorite things is the sound of my 6-year-old son belly laughing. Matt gets a kick out of life, so I get to hear this often. Another of my favorite things is to curl up with Matt and read. I love to share a story with him before bed. So, you can imagine my joy when I get to enjoy both at the same time. Matt laughed his way through Miss Daisy Is Crazy, the first book in the My Weird School series. I had a few chuckles too. Gutman writes a good story, fast paced with lots of "cliff hangers" at the end of the chapters. Matt couldn't wait to see if A. J. and his 2nd grade classmates could read a million pages and turn the school into a video game arcade. He even put several more books from this series on his Christmas list. I'll bet Santa won't disappoint him!
33porch_reader
Book #128 - The Whistling Season - Ivan Doig - Finished November 19, 2010
Category: fiction
Pages: 345
This is one of my favorite books of the year. Set in rural Montana in 1909-1910, The Whistling Season is told through the eyes of Paul Milliron, a seventh grader in a one-room schoolhouse in Marias Coulee. When Paul's recently widowed father, Oliver, see an ad for a housekeeper who "can't cook but doesn't bite," he invites Rose into their home and their lives. Accompanying her is her brother, Morrie, who takes over as the teacher of the one-room schoolhouse. Both Rose and Morrie are exactly what Paul and his two brothers need in their lives. and they soon become invaluable in helping them deal with the challenges that face the boys.
This is the type of story that I generally like. I enjoy getting a sense of another place and time through fiction. But this story shines because Paul provides an amazingly insightful window on the world. Doig does an excellent job of capturing the voice of this precocious 13-year-old. While the events that unfold are at times suspenseful, this is not a plot driven story. Rather, everytime I opened the book, I felt as though I was getting to spend some time in this place and time that are so different from my own, with people who I loved. I hated to see the book end. I spent some time trying to come up with other characters in literature who remind me of Paul, and I can't come up with a comparison. But I did find myself thinking that Oliver reminded me a bit of Atticus Finch. And that is high praise indeed.
This will be on my list of best books of the year. I can't wait to read more by Doig.
Category: fiction
Pages: 345
This is one of my favorite books of the year. Set in rural Montana in 1909-1910, The Whistling Season is told through the eyes of Paul Milliron, a seventh grader in a one-room schoolhouse in Marias Coulee. When Paul's recently widowed father, Oliver, see an ad for a housekeeper who "can't cook but doesn't bite," he invites Rose into their home and their lives. Accompanying her is her brother, Morrie, who takes over as the teacher of the one-room schoolhouse. Both Rose and Morrie are exactly what Paul and his two brothers need in their lives. and they soon become invaluable in helping them deal with the challenges that face the boys.
This is the type of story that I generally like. I enjoy getting a sense of another place and time through fiction. But this story shines because Paul provides an amazingly insightful window on the world. Doig does an excellent job of capturing the voice of this precocious 13-year-old. While the events that unfold are at times suspenseful, this is not a plot driven story. Rather, everytime I opened the book, I felt as though I was getting to spend some time in this place and time that are so different from my own, with people who I loved. I hated to see the book end. I spent some time trying to come up with other characters in literature who remind me of Paul, and I can't come up with a comparison. But I did find myself thinking that Oliver reminded me a bit of Atticus Finch. And that is high praise indeed.
This will be on my list of best books of the year. I can't wait to read more by Doig.
34Copperskye
I'm so glad to see someone else enjoy this wonderful book! I read it over the summer and loved it,too. There is a follow-up of sorts, Work Song, which follows Morrie, but it isn't as good as this one.
35nittnut
I'm going to have to move The Whistling Season up in the pile. I read Work Song earlier this year and liked it, but I have heard (probably from Joanne) that it was not as good as the first.
36tututhefirst
I'm another one who wants to find time to get to The Whistling Season sooner rather than later. I really want to read that one, but it keeps getting butted out of the way. and dang....the only audio available was $99 -- I don't want it that bad!
37alcottacre
My local library does not have The Whistling Season, but it had the follow up, Work Song, which I enjoyed. I really have got to get my hands on that first book!
38tymfos
#32 I thoroughly enjoyed the mental picture of you sharing a book and laughs with your little boy. Treasure those moments!
39porch_reader
#34, 35, 37 - Joanne, Jenn, and Stasia - I'll have to try Work Song. I have heard that it is not as good as The Whistling Season, but if it even comes close, I think I'll like it. Doig has written several others that I want to try too.
#36 - Tina - You MUST read The Whistling Season, but I agree that $99 is a bit steep for the audio. I do think that it would be good on audio though, especially with the right narrator.
#38 - Terri - I'm trying my best to treasure time spent with my boys. I spent Thanksgiving with nieces and nephews who are several years younger than my boys. I can't believe how OLD my boys seems when they are with toddlers.
#36 - Tina - You MUST read The Whistling Season, but I agree that $99 is a bit steep for the audio. I do think that it would be good on audio though, especially with the right narrator.
#38 - Terri - I'm trying my best to treasure time spent with my boys. I spent Thanksgiving with nieces and nephews who are several years younger than my boys. I can't believe how OLD my boys seems when they are with toddlers.
40porch_reader
Book #129 - Big Nate in a Class by Himself - Lincoln Peirce - Finished November 21, 2010
Category: juvenile
Pages: 214
Book #130 - Big Nate Strikes Again - Lincoln Peirce - Finished November 24, 2010
Category: Juvenile, early reviewer
Pages: 216
I got Big Nate Strikes Again as an early reviewer book. This is the sequel to Big Nate in a Class by Himself. The two books are fairly similar. I'll focus my comments on the second book in the series, since that's the one I got as an early reviewer book.
The sixth grade is filled with many challenges - bullies, group projects, detention, sports. Big Nate certainly has his hands full. He's not an A student, a teacher's pet, or the most popular kid in school. But somehow he manages to navigate the trials of sixth grade and come out the other side in relatively good shape.
My nine-year-old son loved the first book in this series, Big Nate in a Class by Himself, but he thought that this one was even better. I agree. Both are written like journals (similar to the style of the Wimpy Kid books), with plenty of pictures, cartoons, and other visuals throughout the chapters. This style works well to help readers see the world through Nate's eyes. And for most kids, the challenges that Nate faces are probably pretty similar to their own experiences.
My favorite part of this book were Nate's challenges with his all-time enemy Gina. Gina is a bit of a goody two-shoes. She brings her report card for show and tell. So you can imagine Nate's disappointment whey they are paired up to write a report on Ben Franklin and are also on the same Fleeceball team. But despite the fact that Nate is the stereotypical goof off and Gina is the stereotypical brain, don't be too certain about how their partnerships will end up. They might just surprise you in the end.
If you are looking for a humorous book that will encourage even reluctant readers to dive in, give Big Nate a try.
Category: juvenile
Pages: 214
Book #130 - Big Nate Strikes Again - Lincoln Peirce - Finished November 24, 2010
Category: Juvenile, early reviewer
Pages: 216
I got Big Nate Strikes Again as an early reviewer book. This is the sequel to Big Nate in a Class by Himself. The two books are fairly similar. I'll focus my comments on the second book in the series, since that's the one I got as an early reviewer book.
The sixth grade is filled with many challenges - bullies, group projects, detention, sports. Big Nate certainly has his hands full. He's not an A student, a teacher's pet, or the most popular kid in school. But somehow he manages to navigate the trials of sixth grade and come out the other side in relatively good shape.
My nine-year-old son loved the first book in this series, Big Nate in a Class by Himself, but he thought that this one was even better. I agree. Both are written like journals (similar to the style of the Wimpy Kid books), with plenty of pictures, cartoons, and other visuals throughout the chapters. This style works well to help readers see the world through Nate's eyes. And for most kids, the challenges that Nate faces are probably pretty similar to their own experiences.
My favorite part of this book were Nate's challenges with his all-time enemy Gina. Gina is a bit of a goody two-shoes. She brings her report card for show and tell. So you can imagine Nate's disappointment whey they are paired up to write a report on Ben Franklin and are also on the same Fleeceball team. But despite the fact that Nate is the stereotypical goof off and Gina is the stereotypical brain, don't be too certain about how their partnerships will end up. They might just surprise you in the end.
If you are looking for a humorous book that will encourage even reluctant readers to dive in, give Big Nate a try.
41nittnut
Big Nate looks fun - we'll have to try them. I don't have any reluctant readers, but do you think they are a good fit for my 1st grader? She is enjoying Katie Kazoo and Junie B. Jones.
42porch_reader
Jenn - Your first grader might like Big Nate. My first-grade son doesn't like them as well as my fourth grader does. They are easy reads for my fourth grader, but I think he identifies more with the situations than my first grader does.
43porch_reader
Book #131 - Garden Spells - Sarah Addison Allen - Finished November 28, 2010
Category: fiction
Pages: 304
My local librarian emailed me the other day. He had figured out how to format the electronic books that the library checks out for iPad. He knew that I had an iPad, so he sent me the step-by-step instructions. Have I mentioned lately how much I love my (and all) librarian?
So, while I was testing out this process, I checked out two electronic books to see if it had worked. I wasn't very purposeful in choosing. I just download two that were near the top of the list. To my delight, one of these was Garden Spells.
This book was just what I needed for a busy holiday weekend. I loved meeting the Waverley sisters. Claire lives in the family house in Bascam, NC. She cares for the garden and has many of the mysterious talents of previous generations of Waverleys, talents that no longer surprise the people of Bascam. Sydney left Bascam as soon as she could after high school, but when she is faced with trouble, she brings her daughter back home. Claire and Sydney bring out the best in each other, but will they be able to protect each other? Answering that question made me turn the pages quickly in this debut novel.
This was an enjoyable story with an interesting supporting cast. I suppose that one might categorize this book as magical realism, but it was done with a light touch. I found that I cared about the Waverley sisters less because of their unique talents than because of they way that they cared for one another. It was rooting for the two of them that made me stay up into the night to find out what happened next.
Has anybody read any of Allen's other books? After this one, I will be looking for more.
Category: fiction
Pages: 304
My local librarian emailed me the other day. He had figured out how to format the electronic books that the library checks out for iPad. He knew that I had an iPad, so he sent me the step-by-step instructions. Have I mentioned lately how much I love my (and all) librarian?
So, while I was testing out this process, I checked out two electronic books to see if it had worked. I wasn't very purposeful in choosing. I just download two that were near the top of the list. To my delight, one of these was Garden Spells.
This book was just what I needed for a busy holiday weekend. I loved meeting the Waverley sisters. Claire lives in the family house in Bascam, NC. She cares for the garden and has many of the mysterious talents of previous generations of Waverleys, talents that no longer surprise the people of Bascam. Sydney left Bascam as soon as she could after high school, but when she is faced with trouble, she brings her daughter back home. Claire and Sydney bring out the best in each other, but will they be able to protect each other? Answering that question made me turn the pages quickly in this debut novel.
This was an enjoyable story with an interesting supporting cast. I suppose that one might categorize this book as magical realism, but it was done with a light touch. I found that I cared about the Waverley sisters less because of their unique talents than because of they way that they cared for one another. It was rooting for the two of them that made me stay up into the night to find out what happened next.
Has anybody read any of Allen's other books? After this one, I will be looking for more.
44brenzi
Oh boy I remember my son loving the Big Nate books way back when. I have Whistling Season sitting on my shelf. I've got to get to it since everyone who reads it loves it.
45porch_reader
Hi Bonnie! You definitely have to read The Whistling Season soon. I was happy to finish it just before Thanksgiving so that I could take it to my mom for her to read.
46porch_reader
Summary of November
Total: 11 books
1 non-fiction (Goal #3)
9 fiction
1 read-aloud to my kids (Goal #2)
5 off the shelf (Goal #1)
0 borrowed from Mom (Goal #1)
1 from my TBR list (Goal #5)
0 group reads (Goal #6)
0 presidential biography (Goal 3)
0 classic (Goal 4)
Best fiction of the month: The Whistling Season
Honorable Mentions: The History of Love, The House on Mango Street
One more month until I get to set some new goals! (Thank goodness, since I seem to have abandoned the ones I set last year.)
Total: 11 books
1 non-fiction (Goal #3)
9 fiction
1 read-aloud to my kids (Goal #2)
5 off the shelf (Goal #1)
0 borrowed from Mom (Goal #1)
1 from my TBR list (Goal #5)
0 group reads (Goal #6)
0 presidential biography (Goal 3)
0 classic (Goal 4)
Best fiction of the month: The Whistling Season
Honorable Mentions: The History of Love, The House on Mango Street
One more month until I get to set some new goals! (Thank goodness, since I seem to have abandoned the ones I set last year.)
47alcottacre
#43: Amy, I have read both Garden Spells and The Sugar Queen by Allen. I enjoyed both of the books of hers I have read, but marginally preferred the latter to the former. She has a new book out now, The Girl Who Chased the Moon, but I have not read that one yet.
48porch_reader
Thanks, Stasia! I'll have to try The Sugar Queen.
49porch_reader
Book #132 - The Invisible Bridge - Julie Orringer - Finished December 3, 2010
Categories: fiction
Pages: 624
Andras Levi is a Hungarian Jew living in Paris and attending architectural school. He feels lucky to have been chosen to attend the school and provided with a scholarship because, as he is leaving for school, opportunities for Jewish people in Hungary are becoming much more restricted. Throughout the first section of this book, Andras faces his share of struggles, living on a restricted budget, finding work, negotiating a romantic relationship. But these struggles are nothing compared to the horrors that face Andras when he is forced to return to Hungary as World War II begins.
This book succeeds on so many levels. It is an epic story of the Levi family, Andras and his two brothers. This is also historical fiction at its best. Although World War II is the focus of much historical fiction, this book provides insight into the plight of Hungarian Jews, who for much of the war are "luckier" than those in Germany or Poland. Through the experiences of Levi, his wife, his brothers, and his friends, the horrors of this period of time are vivid and disturbing. (Although I seldom remember my dreams, I had a horrible nightmare one night after reading this book that sticks with me still.)
Orringer also does an amazing job of showing how we can become immune to recognizing the horrors of war. Several times throughout the story, Andras gets a lucky break. But to consider him lucky, given the situations he faces, is absurd. In fact, even when Andras gets a larger portion of food for the day or a safer work assignment, he is frustrated by the lack of control that he has over the situation.
This is not an easy book to read, but it is a masterpiece of historical fiction. I highly recommend it!
Categories: fiction
Pages: 624
Andras Levi is a Hungarian Jew living in Paris and attending architectural school. He feels lucky to have been chosen to attend the school and provided with a scholarship because, as he is leaving for school, opportunities for Jewish people in Hungary are becoming much more restricted. Throughout the first section of this book, Andras faces his share of struggles, living on a restricted budget, finding work, negotiating a romantic relationship. But these struggles are nothing compared to the horrors that face Andras when he is forced to return to Hungary as World War II begins.
This book succeeds on so many levels. It is an epic story of the Levi family, Andras and his two brothers. This is also historical fiction at its best. Although World War II is the focus of much historical fiction, this book provides insight into the plight of Hungarian Jews, who for much of the war are "luckier" than those in Germany or Poland. Through the experiences of Levi, his wife, his brothers, and his friends, the horrors of this period of time are vivid and disturbing. (Although I seldom remember my dreams, I had a horrible nightmare one night after reading this book that sticks with me still.)
Orringer also does an amazing job of showing how we can become immune to recognizing the horrors of war. Several times throughout the story, Andras gets a lucky break. But to consider him lucky, given the situations he faces, is absurd. In fact, even when Andras gets a larger portion of food for the day or a safer work assignment, he is frustrated by the lack of control that he has over the situation.
This is not an easy book to read, but it is a masterpiece of historical fiction. I highly recommend it!
50alcottacre
#49: I already have that one in the BlackHole and, although my local library does not have it yet, it is available for the Nook. Woot!
51porch_reader
Stasia - It's good to have options, isn't it!? I hadn't been able to get the "real" copy of The Invisible Bridge from my library, so I checked out the e-book.
52bonniebooks
>43 porch_reader:: Wow! What a great librarian! I wonder if I can join your library system?
53alcottacre
#51: Yes, it is great to have options. I am using my Nook primarily for that purpose - filling in for the deficiencies of my local library.
54porch_reader
I have not been getting much reading done lately. With the end of the semester, I'm doing lots of grading. And we are preparing for a trip to DisneyWorld, so I've been spending lots of time answering the question, "How many more days?" But I did finish a read-aloud to my son and an old favorite.
Book #133 - The Viper's Nest - Peter Lerangis - Finished December 11, 2010
Categories: read-aloud, series
Pages: 190
This is book #7 in the 39 clues series, and in my opinion, it is one of the stronger entries. Lots of excitement plus a little history in South Africa. Some heart-stopping cliffhangers. And a major secret revealed at the end. Dan and Amy continue to be the most resourceful children I've ever met. And the pace makes these books excellent for reading aloud. My fourth-grader loves them!
Book #134 - A Bear Called Paddington - Michael Bond - Finished December 12, 2010
Categories: 1001 Children's Books
Pages: 143
When I was a girl, I owned a stuffed Paddington Bear, complete with hat and blue duffle coat. He and Curious George went everywhere with me. When the Bishop visited our small town church, my grandpa even arranged for them to meet and be blessed by the Bishop. That adventure reminds me of the many adventures of Paddington described in this book.
This book is one of the 1001 Children's Books You Must Read Before You Grow Up. I found a lovely 50th anniversary edition at my library (great drawings) and quickly found myself laughing at the antics of Paddington. As he states matter-of-factly in the beginning of the book, "Things are always happening to me. I'm that sort of bear."
Book #133 - The Viper's Nest - Peter Lerangis - Finished December 11, 2010
Categories: read-aloud, series
Pages: 190
This is book #7 in the 39 clues series, and in my opinion, it is one of the stronger entries. Lots of excitement plus a little history in South Africa. Some heart-stopping cliffhangers. And a major secret revealed at the end. Dan and Amy continue to be the most resourceful children I've ever met. And the pace makes these books excellent for reading aloud. My fourth-grader loves them!
Book #134 - A Bear Called Paddington - Michael Bond - Finished December 12, 2010
Categories: 1001 Children's Books
Pages: 143
When I was a girl, I owned a stuffed Paddington Bear, complete with hat and blue duffle coat. He and Curious George went everywhere with me. When the Bishop visited our small town church, my grandpa even arranged for them to meet and be blessed by the Bishop. That adventure reminds me of the many adventures of Paddington described in this book.
This book is one of the 1001 Children's Books You Must Read Before You Grow Up. I found a lovely 50th anniversary edition at my library (great drawings) and quickly found myself laughing at the antics of Paddington. As he states matter-of-factly in the beginning of the book, "Things are always happening to me. I'm that sort of bear."
55alcottacre
#54: I thought book 7 was one of the stronger books in the series too, Amy. I am glad you and your son are enjoying the series!
56bonniebooks
I love Paddington Bear too. I have the paperbacks that I lend to my students, but they're pretty ratty. I'll have to look for that 50th Anniversary edition for myself.
57Whisper1
A trip to Disneyworld? How very exciting. Have you been there since they opened The Animal Kingdom? The safari ride is great.
58nittnut
Hi *wave*
I enjoy Sarah Addison Allen as well. I have read Garden Spells, Sugar Queen, which was probably my favorite, and The Girl Who Chased the Moon. I thought they were all fun, and all of them have characters who are very caring and likable.
I enjoy Sarah Addison Allen as well. I have read Garden Spells, Sugar Queen, which was probably my favorite, and The Girl Who Chased the Moon. I thought they were all fun, and all of them have characters who are very caring and likable.
59porch_reader
#55 - Stasia - My son and I knew, based on your comments and those of others here on LT, that big things happened in Book #7, so that really kept us reading. Sometimes, it's nice to know a little bit about what's going to happen in a long series.
#56 - Bonnie - The 50th Anniversary Edition of Paddington would be perfect for you. It has such nice pictures and an introduction by Michael Bond. It was published in 2008 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
#57 - Linda - Yes, DisneyWorld at Christmas! I can't wait. We went about 3 years ago, but my youngest was only four years old then. Now, the boys are almost 10 and almost 7, so I think that they will enjoy different things than they did three years ago. And we've never been there at Christmastime. I've heard the decorations are great!
#58 - Jenn - *wave back* Ooh, I'm tempted to get Sugar Queen for my trip. It seems like it would make good airplane reading. Although I've got several other books for the plane too. I tend to hoard books before I fly. I'm not a big fan of flying, and it helps if I have several good books to distract me.
#56 - Bonnie - The 50th Anniversary Edition of Paddington would be perfect for you. It has such nice pictures and an introduction by Michael Bond. It was published in 2008 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
#57 - Linda - Yes, DisneyWorld at Christmas! I can't wait. We went about 3 years ago, but my youngest was only four years old then. Now, the boys are almost 10 and almost 7, so I think that they will enjoy different things than they did three years ago. And we've never been there at Christmastime. I've heard the decorations are great!
#58 - Jenn - *wave back* Ooh, I'm tempted to get Sugar Queen for my trip. It seems like it would make good airplane reading. Although I've got several other books for the plane too. I tend to hoard books before I fly. I'm not a big fan of flying, and it helps if I have several good books to distract me.
60porch_reader
Just had to post a link to this list of the 12 Best Bookstores from the Huffington Post. I'm so excited to see Prairie Lights on this list. It is an Iowa City institution!
61alcottacre
Have a great trip to DisneyWorld, Amy! I hope you and your family have a fantastic time!
62porch_reader
Thanks, Stasia! Since we're leaving single-digit temperatures here in Iowa, I think that we'll be happy just to be somewhere warmer!
63porch_reader
Book #135 - Stealing Lumby - Gail Fraser - Finished December 13, 2010
Category: fiction
Pages: 329
After reading The Invisible Bridge, I needed something a little lighter, a palette cleanser of sorts. This second book in the Lumby series fit the bill nicely. It was fun to return to some old friends from the first book, but Fraser also introduces some interesting new characters as well. The main storyline centers around a famous American painter, who painted the Barns of Lumby early in his career. When the painting is stolen, reporters descend on Lumby and secrets from the past are gradually revealed.
People often talk about comfort food, but I have comfort reads. When I get sick or stressed out, I have a few books that I can sink into gently. The Mitford books (by Jan Karon) have always served that purpose for me, but I think that I can also add the Lumby books to my list of comfort reads.
Category: fiction
Pages: 329
After reading The Invisible Bridge, I needed something a little lighter, a palette cleanser of sorts. This second book in the Lumby series fit the bill nicely. It was fun to return to some old friends from the first book, but Fraser also introduces some interesting new characters as well. The main storyline centers around a famous American painter, who painted the Barns of Lumby early in his career. When the painting is stolen, reporters descend on Lumby and secrets from the past are gradually revealed.
People often talk about comfort food, but I have comfort reads. When I get sick or stressed out, I have a few books that I can sink into gently. The Mitford books (by Jan Karon) have always served that purpose for me, but I think that I can also add the Lumby books to my list of comfort reads.
64tututhefirst
Amy...you are an inspiration. I'm leaving tomorrow to go to a funeral, facing 20 hours up and back in the car, and lots of 'icky' time staying at various relatives. I've just finished a couple of rather dreary books, and couldn't decide which of the horrendous TBR pile i wanted to lug with me. Voila....you hit the mark.
I have two Lumby- (#2,#3- I've already read the 1st) and the newest Jan Karon In the Company of Others and just got a copy of Margaret Maron's Christmas Mourning==so I'm going to take all the warm/fuzzy favorites and trust they will sustain me. I like your idea of a palette cleanser. These are all sorta like macNcheese for the mind.
I have two Lumby- (#2,#3- I've already read the 1st) and the newest Jan Karon In the Company of Others and just got a copy of Margaret Maron's Christmas Mourning==so I'm going to take all the warm/fuzzy favorites and trust they will sustain me. I like your idea of a palette cleanser. These are all sorta like macNcheese for the mind.
65Copperskye
Christmas in DisneyWorld! How magical, as they say, and your boys are a great age to enjoy everything. Have a wonderful time!
66porch_reader
Tina - I'm so sorry that you have such a dreary trip ahead of you. I hope that your comfort books make it a bit better. I liked the second Lumby even better than the first, and I just checked the new Father Tim book out from our electronic book service, so I'll be reading it soon too. Have safe travels!
67porch_reader
Thanks, Joanne! I think that I'm as excited about the trip to DisneyWorld as the boys are! I love Christmas, and I've heard that Disney really does it right!
68alcottacre
I am a strong believer in comfort reads and I think the Lumby books will fit in that category for me as well. I have only read the first one, but own 1-4, so I need to find where I put them!
69bonniebooks
Have a fun Christmas! I can totally relate to your excitement. My first visit to Disneyland was part of my honeymoon. Lol!
72porch_reader
Thanks, everyone! We had a wonderful time in Florida. We spent three days at the DisneyWorld parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios) and one day at SeaWorld (where the boys and I got to touch a dolphin - amazing!). The boys did a great job flying (only their second time). It was a great way to start the holiday season and spend some quality time with my husband and boys. Somehow being away from home gives us a chance to get out of our routines and really notice how big the boys are getting!
I did not get much reading done. I fell into bed exhausted every night! But I finished two books before I left that I'll add to the list. And hopefully I'll have a couple of more before the year ends!
I did not get much reading done. I fell into bed exhausted every night! But I finished two books before I left that I'll add to the list. And hopefully I'll have a couple of more before the year ends!
73porch_reader
Book #136 - Pirates Past Noon - Mary Pope Osbourne - Finished December 14, 2010
Category: read aloud
Pages: 67
This is book #4 in the popular Magic Tree House series. My older son didn't read many of these books, but my first grader recently asked me to read one to him. In this book, Jack and his younger sister Annie are transported to an island where they encounter pirates hunting for a buried treasure. The idea behind this series is an interesting one, as Jack and Annie visit a number of historical locations. However, the books are definitely geared toward early readers. The plot of this book was pretty thin. But it did hold the interest of my first grade son, and I'm fairly certain that we'll be reading more of the series.
Category: read aloud
Pages: 67
This is book #4 in the popular Magic Tree House series. My older son didn't read many of these books, but my first grader recently asked me to read one to him. In this book, Jack and his younger sister Annie are transported to an island where they encounter pirates hunting for a buried treasure. The idea behind this series is an interesting one, as Jack and Annie visit a number of historical locations. However, the books are definitely geared toward early readers. The plot of this book was pretty thin. But it did hold the interest of my first grade son, and I'm fairly certain that we'll be reading more of the series.
74porch_reader
Book #137 - The Thousand Autumns of Jacob De Zoet - David Mitchell - Finished December 14, 2010
Category: fiction
Pages: 496
This novel provides an interesting look at the operations of the Dutch East Indies Company in Japan at the turn of the 19th century. Jacob De Zoet is a clerk who is sent to Japan to investigate the corruption rampant in the Dutch East Indies Company. While De Zoet provides a focal point for the story, Mitchell introduces us to a full contingent of characters, including other Dutch officials, the resident physician, a Japanese midwife, interpreters, and members of the Japanese ruling class. Multiple storylines help move the book forward while providing us with a multi-layered understanding of this historical time period.
In many ways, this is historical fiction at its best. Mitchell tells a story that is richly textured with details of the period, but these details are always provided in service of moving the story forward. I never felt as though Mitchell was including a detail simply because he had discovered it as part of his research on the time period. In fact, Mitchell drops us into the context with very little hand holding. At times, this made it a little difficult to piece together the story. My knowledge of early 19th century Japan was not terribly well developed prior to reading this book. But once I got into the rhythm of the story, I enjoyed the book a great deal.
Category: fiction
Pages: 496
This novel provides an interesting look at the operations of the Dutch East Indies Company in Japan at the turn of the 19th century. Jacob De Zoet is a clerk who is sent to Japan to investigate the corruption rampant in the Dutch East Indies Company. While De Zoet provides a focal point for the story, Mitchell introduces us to a full contingent of characters, including other Dutch officials, the resident physician, a Japanese midwife, interpreters, and members of the Japanese ruling class. Multiple storylines help move the book forward while providing us with a multi-layered understanding of this historical time period.
In many ways, this is historical fiction at its best. Mitchell tells a story that is richly textured with details of the period, but these details are always provided in service of moving the story forward. I never felt as though Mitchell was including a detail simply because he had discovered it as part of his research on the time period. In fact, Mitchell drops us into the context with very little hand holding. At times, this made it a little difficult to piece together the story. My knowledge of early 19th century Japan was not terribly well developed prior to reading this book. But once I got into the rhythm of the story, I enjoyed the book a great deal.
75alcottacre
#74: I need to get to that one yet. I bought it several months ago. Maybe in 2011. Glad to see you enjoyed it, Amy!
76tututhefirst
#137....this is going to be one of my MUST Reads for 2011. I have it in audio, sitting here waiting to be listened to, but life has been so disjointed that I haven't wanted to start anything deep. The story appeals to me...the setting, the timeframe and the history. So glad you enjoyed it. You've made me really look forward to it.
77Donna828
Amy, your trip to Disney World sounds magical. We went with our grandkids (and their parents) last spring. The youngest was only 2 so a return visit will be coming up in a few years. I'm in! I think December would be a great time to go. How were the crowds? The lines were long during our March trip.
I also loved Jacob de Zoet. Not an easy read but very worthwhile. I have The Invisible Bridge waiting for me whenever I can "squeeze" a 600+ page book in. Now you know why my new thread is called 'Donna828 is Overbooked!'
I also loved Jacob de Zoet. Not an easy read but very worthwhile. I have The Invisible Bridge waiting for me whenever I can "squeeze" a 600+ page book in. Now you know why my new thread is called 'Donna828 is Overbooked!'
78porch_reader
#75 & 76 - Stasia and Tine - I think that you'll enjoy Jacob de Zoet. Tina, I agree that you want to read it when you have time to sink into it. I'll watch your 2011 threads to see if it makes it to the top of your TBR lists.
#77 - Donna - The Disney crowds weren't bad at all, but we went Dec 15-20. I've heard that the week between Christmas and New Years is really busy! Good luck squeezing in The Invisible Bridge. What's one more chunky book in an "Overbooked" year?!?
#77 - Donna - The Disney crowds weren't bad at all, but we went Dec 15-20. I've heard that the week between Christmas and New Years is really busy! Good luck squeezing in The Invisible Bridge. What's one more chunky book in an "Overbooked" year?!?
79porch_reader
With traveling and the holidays, December has not been a productive reading month, but I do have a couple of books to report.
Book #138 - In the Company of Others: A Father Tim Novel - Jan Karon - Finished December 24, 2010
Category: fiction
Pages: 416
Jan Karon's books are the ultimate in comfort reads for me. This second book in the Father Tim series (which follows the seven books in the Mitford series) finds Father Tim and his wife Cynthia on a trip to Ireland. During their stay at a country lodge, we meet the extended family who runs the lodge and watch as Father Tim helps them sort through problems from the distant past and the present day. Although I missed spending time with the familiar characters from Father Tim's hometown of Mitford, Karon does a nice job introducing us to a new cast of characters. In the Company of Others isn't quite as good as the best of the Mitford series, but it was just right for a busy December read.
Book #138 - In the Company of Others: A Father Tim Novel - Jan Karon - Finished December 24, 2010
Category: fiction
Pages: 416
Jan Karon's books are the ultimate in comfort reads for me. This second book in the Father Tim series (which follows the seven books in the Mitford series) finds Father Tim and his wife Cynthia on a trip to Ireland. During their stay at a country lodge, we meet the extended family who runs the lodge and watch as Father Tim helps them sort through problems from the distant past and the present day. Although I missed spending time with the familiar characters from Father Tim's hometown of Mitford, Karon does a nice job introducing us to a new cast of characters. In the Company of Others isn't quite as good as the best of the Mitford series, but it was just right for a busy December read.
80porch_reader
Book #139 - The Return of the Homework Machine - Dan Gutman - Finished December 26, 2010
Category: read aloud
Pages: 162
This is the sequel to one of my fourth-grade son's favorite books, The Homework Machine. In this book, Brenton, Kelsey, Sam, and Judy have moved onto sixth grade. Without their Homework Machine, they are concentrating on keeping up with the assignments given by Mr. Murphy, their new teacher. However, we haven't heard the last of the powerful chip that ran the Homework Machine. As Brenton, Kelsey, Sam, and Judy team up to search for treasure in the Grand Canyon, their old friend Richard Milner, school bully Ronnie Teotwawki, and the powerful computer chip play a role in the search.
This story is again told through multiple points of view, with several voices alternating in each chapter. This writing style might make the story feel choppy, but Gutman uses it to drive the pace of the story forward. My son and I enjoyed this one at least as much as The Homework Machine.
Category: read aloud
Pages: 162
This is the sequel to one of my fourth-grade son's favorite books, The Homework Machine. In this book, Brenton, Kelsey, Sam, and Judy have moved onto sixth grade. Without their Homework Machine, they are concentrating on keeping up with the assignments given by Mr. Murphy, their new teacher. However, we haven't heard the last of the powerful chip that ran the Homework Machine. As Brenton, Kelsey, Sam, and Judy team up to search for treasure in the Grand Canyon, their old friend Richard Milner, school bully Ronnie Teotwawki, and the powerful computer chip play a role in the search.
This story is again told through multiple points of view, with several voices alternating in each chapter. This writing style might make the story feel choppy, but Gutman uses it to drive the pace of the story forward. My son and I enjoyed this one at least as much as The Homework Machine.
81tututhefirst
Amy= I have the Karon book on the pile to read as my last book of this year to carry over New Year's Eve to end in 2011. I did enjoy her Mitford series so much, and I know I'll miss the old characters, but I'm hoping Fr. Tim and Cynthia are strong enough characters to be able to introduce us and have us fall in love with the Irish side of the family. I'm sure it will be a feel good to bridge the end of year reading and usher in a new year's worth of more good books.
82alcottacre
#80: I just read one of Gutman's books a couple of weeks ago, Nightmare at the Book Fair. Have you and your son read that one yet, Amy?
83bonniebooks
Sounds like you had a super time with hubby and your boys, Amy. Isn't fun to be away together and not have a "Things To Do" list hanging over you? Maybe a Disney-like vacation should become a Christmas tradition?
It's great to know which authors you can always go to for some comfort food. That ought to be a thread, come to think of it, since "comfort read" books don't always fit into the "Favorites" or "Ten Best of the Year..." categories.
P.S. Can I give you some unsolicited advice as a reading teacher? If your first-grader is really enjoying the Magic Treehouse books, then I wouldn't read them to him. Or just read the first couple of chapters of each book with him and let him finish them. They are not the greatest writing, but they are really good transition books from end-of-first grade leveled books to early second grade texts. Second grade is all about building stamina, and reading fluency, so it's great to have a series like this that you know he really enjoys and will want to read, read, read! Junie B. Jones is another series that students can most easily read after mastering J-K books.
It's great to know which authors you can always go to for some comfort food. That ought to be a thread, come to think of it, since "comfort read" books don't always fit into the "Favorites" or "Ten Best of the Year..." categories.
P.S. Can I give you some unsolicited advice as a reading teacher? If your first-grader is really enjoying the Magic Treehouse books, then I wouldn't read them to him. Or just read the first couple of chapters of each book with him and let him finish them. They are not the greatest writing, but they are really good transition books from end-of-first grade leveled books to early second grade texts. Second grade is all about building stamina, and reading fluency, so it's great to have a series like this that you know he really enjoys and will want to read, read, read! Junie B. Jones is another series that students can most easily read after mastering J-K books.
84porch_reader
#81 - Tina - I hope you are enjoying the new Jan Karon book. I thought there were some interesting new characters and always love Fr. Tim and Cynthia. Happy New Year!
#82 - Stasia - No, we haven't read Nightmare at the Book Fair yet, but it is on our list for 2011! Ben just finished another Gutman book, The Christmas Genie, and he liked that one too.
#83 - Bonnie - I love the idea of a pre-Christmas trip becoming a tradition. I got organized and got all of my shopping done before we left, so I avoided that last-minute shopping rush and enjoyed some down time with my family. That's definitely something I'd like to do every year.
And I appreciate your advice about the Magic Treehouse books. Matt used to pick up the Junie B books on his own, but he hasn't really found another series to get into. Maybe Magic Treehouse will be it. With his B&N gift card, he bought three new Magic Treehouse books and started reading one of those on his own yesterday. I bought Jeremy Thatcher, Dragon Hatcher, which seems a little old for him to read on his own, and I'm reading that one to him. Hopefully, that will keep us both reading into the new year!
#82 - Stasia - No, we haven't read Nightmare at the Book Fair yet, but it is on our list for 2011! Ben just finished another Gutman book, The Christmas Genie, and he liked that one too.
#83 - Bonnie - I love the idea of a pre-Christmas trip becoming a tradition. I got organized and got all of my shopping done before we left, so I avoided that last-minute shopping rush and enjoyed some down time with my family. That's definitely something I'd like to do every year.
And I appreciate your advice about the Magic Treehouse books. Matt used to pick up the Junie B books on his own, but he hasn't really found another series to get into. Maybe Magic Treehouse will be it. With his B&N gift card, he bought three new Magic Treehouse books and started reading one of those on his own yesterday. I bought Jeremy Thatcher, Dragon Hatcher, which seems a little old for him to read on his own, and I'm reading that one to him. Hopefully, that will keep us both reading into the new year!
85porch_reader
Book #140 - Stanley's Christmas Adventure - Jeff Brown - Finished December 28, 2010
Category: read aloud
Pages: 71
This is one of the Flat Stanley series. In this book, Stanley is not flat anymore, but he still has important work to do, including saving Christmas. My first grader enjoyed this as our read-aloud selection, and I appreciate the message that Christmas isn't all about getting presents. A good holiday read!
Category: read aloud
Pages: 71
This is one of the Flat Stanley series. In this book, Stanley is not flat anymore, but he still has important work to do, including saving Christmas. My first grader enjoyed this as our read-aloud selection, and I appreciate the message that Christmas isn't all about getting presents. A good holiday read!
86porch_reader
That is probably my last book for 2010. Not a bad reading year! Altogether I read 89 fiction books, 19 nonfiction books, and 39 read-aloud chapter books for my kids.
I started the year with several reading goals. One was to do more read-alouds with my two boys. Reading before bed has become a great habit for us. The three of us read 39 books together this year!
I also had a goal to read books off my shelves. I read 38 books from my shelves this year, but I bought more than that. So, I'll keep trying. . .
I had a great fiction reading year, but didn't read as many nonfiction books or classics as I had hoped. So, that's something that I'll continue to work on in 2011.
Probably the best indicator of what a good reading year it was is the number of memorable books that I've read. It was tough to pick my favorites, but here they are:
Fiction:
To Kill a Mockingbird – Harper Lee
The Moonflower Vine – Jetta Carlton
The Help – Kathryn Stockett
The Vagrant – Yiyun Li
Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand – Helen Simonson
Bury Your Dead – Louise Penny
The Imperfectionists – Tom Rachman
The History of Love – Nicole Krauss
The Whistling Season – Ivan Doig
The Invisible Bridge – Julie Orringer
Nonfiction:
Theodore Roosevelt: A Life – Nathan Miller
Stones into Schools – Greg Mortenson
Sailing With Noah: Stories from the World of Zoos – Jeffrey P. Bonner
The Horse Boy: A Father’s Quest to Heal His Son – Rupert Isaacson
The Living Great Lakes – Jerry Dennis
Young Adult:
Messenger - Lois Lowry
The Red Pyramid – Rick Riordan
Island of the Blue Dolphins – Scott O’Dell
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – J. K. Rowling
The 39 Clues: The Viper’s Nest – Peter Lerangis
Thanks to all of you who have stopped by in 2010. I hope to see you in 2011. I've started my new thread here.
Happy New Year!
I started the year with several reading goals. One was to do more read-alouds with my two boys. Reading before bed has become a great habit for us. The three of us read 39 books together this year!
I also had a goal to read books off my shelves. I read 38 books from my shelves this year, but I bought more than that. So, I'll keep trying. . .
I had a great fiction reading year, but didn't read as many nonfiction books or classics as I had hoped. So, that's something that I'll continue to work on in 2011.
Probably the best indicator of what a good reading year it was is the number of memorable books that I've read. It was tough to pick my favorites, but here they are:
Fiction:
To Kill a Mockingbird – Harper Lee
The Moonflower Vine – Jetta Carlton
The Help – Kathryn Stockett
The Vagrant – Yiyun Li
Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand – Helen Simonson
Bury Your Dead – Louise Penny
The Imperfectionists – Tom Rachman
The History of Love – Nicole Krauss
The Whistling Season – Ivan Doig
The Invisible Bridge – Julie Orringer
Nonfiction:
Theodore Roosevelt: A Life – Nathan Miller
Stones into Schools – Greg Mortenson
Sailing With Noah: Stories from the World of Zoos – Jeffrey P. Bonner
The Horse Boy: A Father’s Quest to Heal His Son – Rupert Isaacson
The Living Great Lakes – Jerry Dennis
Young Adult:
Messenger - Lois Lowry
The Red Pyramid – Rick Riordan
Island of the Blue Dolphins – Scott O’Dell
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – J. K. Rowling
The 39 Clues: The Viper’s Nest – Peter Lerangis
Thanks to all of you who have stopped by in 2010. I hope to see you in 2011. I've started my new thread here.
Happy New Year!
87bonniebooks
That transition from J-K to level L is a significant one. When children have inherent difficulties, that level is where they often get stuck if they don't get more intensive support. Some series that I use as a bridge: Curious George, George and Martha, Nate the Great, Horrible Harry, and Cam Jansen. Flat Stanley too! :-)
88alcottacre
#86: Reading before bed has become a great habit for us. The three of us read 39 books together this year!
Congratulations to the three of you! I hope it is a habit that continues for many more years.
Congratulations to the three of you! I hope it is a habit that continues for many more years.
89nittnut
Happy New Year to the best reader-of-books-to-her-kids that I know! I look forward to seeing what you all read next year.
90porch_reader
#87 - Bonnie - Horrible Harry and Cam Jansen were favorites of my older son. I feel like the second one is at an advantage because he's already got a great stack of hand-me-down books.
#88 - Thanks, Stasia! Me too!
#89 - Jenn - That is so sweet. It made me think was a great "reader-of-books-to-her-kids" my mom was. She even typed some of my favorite books (like the Five Dolls series) into play format so that we could act them out. I have great memories of reading with and to her. Hope my kids end up with those same good memories!
Happy New Year, Everyone!
#88 - Thanks, Stasia! Me too!
#89 - Jenn - That is so sweet. It made me think was a great "reader-of-books-to-her-kids" my mom was. She even typed some of my favorite books (like the Five Dolls series) into play format so that we could act them out. I have great memories of reading with and to her. Hope my kids end up with those same good memories!
Happy New Year, Everyone!
91alcottacre
Happy New Year, Amy!
