Mark's Reading Place: Booked Solid Part 5

~ Winter either bites with its teeth or lashes with its tail. ~
Proverb



This is a shot of one of my "keeper" shelves!

**My favorite books of 10**
Matterhorn by Karl Marlantes
Blindness by Jose Saramago
Columbine by Dave Cullen
Walking to Gatlinburg by Howard Frank Mosher
Small Island by Andrea Levy
WAR by Sebastian Junger
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly
A Visit from the Goon Squad by Jennifer Egan

Books I've read so far: * OTS is Off The Shelf

January

1) Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson 4.3 star (OTS)
2) Grandville by Brian Talbot 3.8 rating (graphic)
3) The Worst Hard Time by Timothy Egan 5 star (audio)
4) The Tenderness of Wolves by Stef Penney 3.8 (OTS)
5) A Death in Belmont by Sebastian Junger 4 star (audio)
6) Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand 5 Star
7) Chew (Omnivore Edition)- John Layman (graphic) 4 star
8) Angelology by Danielle Trussoni 3.7 stars (audio)
9) Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell 4.7 stars (Group Read) (OTS)
10) Howards End Is on the Landing by Susan Hill 4 stars
11) Sense And Sensibility by Jane Austen (audio) 3 stars
12) The Tiger by John Vaillant 4.8 stars
13) Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi (graphic) 4.5 stars
14) The White Lioness by Henning Mankell 4.5 stars

February:

15) Composed by Rosanne Cash (audio) 4.2 stars
16) Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld 4 stars FF read (OTS)
17) The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman (audio) 4.5 stars
18) The Maze Runner by James Dashner 4 stars FF read (OTS)
19) Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius by Dave Eggers (audio) 4 stars
20) The Windup Girl by Paolo Bacigalupi 4.3 stars FF read (OTS)
21) Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See 3.7 stars (audio)
22) The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss 4.2 stars FF Read (OTS)
23) Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver (audio) 4.3 stars

I'm never first! :)

I guess I'm second......and I hate to "second guess" people

BOO HOO or WHOO HOO

your choice!!!

;-p

Hi Mark, panting, trying to catch up.

Your book shelves always look so neat. Wish mine were as organized!
--BJ

New digs eh? Nice!

FYI, I've added Game of Thrones to my WL. Sadly won't be able to add it to this month's pile seeing as I've barely got time to fit in my MUST READS. sigh. That'll teach me to add books I haven't read yet to my BookMooch inventory. Bad Ilana, Bad. ;-)

Same goes for The Windup Girl. Would love to join you there and read it in the coming days but at this point I have to choose between that and The Difference Engine this month, in which case you'd be directly affected. Either way, I'll have still fit more Fantasy into this month than I've ever done probably in a whole year—five so far: Skellig, The Golden Compass, The Graveyard Book, The Hunger Game, Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass, and still going!

eta: Joining in on the discussion of Graphic Novels, I want to add my vote for The Arrival which I think would probably win over even the most reluctant reader, unless that person be devoid of eyes to see and a heart to feel. I'm glad I've purchased it so I can go back to it again and again.

Joanne- You are first now! Yah!

Jude- I prefer "WHOO HOO". So you have a copy of Black Hole? I'm not surprised. Dark & disturbing! Duh! I think you would like the graphic series Strangers in Paradise too! I'm looking forward to continuing the series.

Bonnie- Please don't over-exert yourself! I do not want any injuries.

BJ- I try to keep the shelves neat, whenever possible. The "Keeper" shelves are easier, cause they don't change as much. The TBR shelves are just a tad more messier. I can't wait until you finally get to A Game of Thrones. It's become a major hit over on the FF thread.

Ilana- You've done great, my friend! That was one of my major goals, on starting the FF thread, getting folks to read books they would not have normally been interested in. Like I mentioned to BJ, A Game of Thrones is freakin' amazing!

I've been looking up info on our public library system and discovered that the one closest to me does actually have English books (I wasn't sure about that). It's just a 10-minute walk away from me so I think I'll go check it out tomorrow. Haven't borrowed from a public library in over 20 years!

Hi Mark. I'm impressed with your reading so far this year. Hope some warmer weather is in your future!

Hey Mark!

Was lurking on the FF thread and I see that George's book is a huge hit right but but I've been so hesitant to start the series because what book is he on now..like over 10??..haha and it's not the last book right?? So would you say overall is the series a worthwhile one to start or is more like most series where the middle is really just fodder after the very excellent first book??

Sigh. . 3 threads behind. Incidentally I have Howard's End is on the Landing checked out- hopefully I can get to it soon. :) *waves*

Checking in, Mark!

cheers

*Waves*

Ilana- It's nice to see you re-introduced to the library system. It's of course invaluable to me, especially with graphics and audiobooks. Hey, FF has been quite a hit, right?

Pat- Good to see you! Right now, I'm focusing on fantasy based books, but soon enough I'll be back full throttle.

jolerie- Thanks so much for stopping by! Yes, many fans of Martin are quite exasperated with him and his foot-dragging. This 5th book has taken eons to write. That said, READ THIS SERIES! It's phenomenal! Please stop by again.

Tam- I've missed you! Don't be a stranger!

Stasia, RD & Stephen- Big hearty waves!!

I started The Windup Girl. It's more sci-fi than fantasy, but I'm enjoying the dark world he has created. I finished and enjoyed A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius. (I might be alone on this one). The audio was fantastic.
Also on audio, I just started Full Dark No Stars, the latest Stephen King collection.

I wish my local library had The Windup Girl. I would really like to read that one.

Give me a couple of years to whittle down my outrageous TBR pile and then hopefully *fingers crossed but will not be holding my breath* he will be done his series by then??? :)

Hi Mark: Hope you're enjoying the nice day. I was just driving home from Target and had my car window open a little bit to get some fresh air.

Do you remember the name of that graphic book about libraries and/or bookmobiles? I was trying to put it on reserve and mispaced the name. TIA.

19: Open car windows are a distant memory...

#19 The Night Bookmobile by Audrey Niffenegger. It is also available online. It begins here.

gotcha

Stasia- I'm planning on lending it (The Windup Girl) to a friend, when I'm finished but after he's done I could send it to you. Let me know!

Linda- Lisa supplied the title, in msg #21. It's cool if you can read it online.

Qebo- I didn't open my car windows but I didn't have the heat on. Not in my work vehicle either, which was nice.

Susan- Big wave!

I decided to run my Explorer through the car wash, on my way home. It was way over-due but unfortunately there was just enough moisture (melt-off) on the roads, that it still looks crappy. Oh, whatever!

caught up and

Hi Mark... you hard-working, hard-reading dude!

Nice new thread. Starred!

#21 Lisa, thanks for the info about that book.

#23: Thanks, Mark! I will take you up on that offer.

Have a great Sunday!

Morning everyone! It's Sunday and it's supposed to reach the low 40s. May the great melt-off begin! Yah! It's going to be a me & books kinda day, with LT interludes.
BTW- We watched The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest last night. It was pretty good. A decent way to close out the series. I will still miss Salander.

Claudia- "hard-working, hard-reading dude". That would make a nice epitaph. I might use it!

Linda- Are you going to try the online version? Or stick with the book?

Stasia- No problem, just give me a friendly reminder down the road.

#28: Me remind you? I was hoping you would remind me! lol

Hi Mark! Take the day off! ;-) lol

18) The Maze Runner by James Dashner 4 stars

Thomas suddenly wakes up and finds himself in some kind of dark elevator. His memory seems to be wiped clean and all he can remember is his name. The doors open and he is led out. He is surrounded by dozens of boys, of all races and ages. They are living in a vast courtyard, a perfect square, bordered by four immense stone walls. In the center of each of the walls is a huge doorway.
Thomas soon discovers that each of these doorways leads to an intricate maze, that selected “runners” spend the day trying to decipher, trying to find a “way out”, like rats in a labyrinth.
This is an exciting, fast-moving dystopian tale, a loose cross between The Lord of the Flies and The Hunger Games. It’s the first of a series and one I highly recommend.

I will probably stick with the book, not the online version, Mark. Stasia also mentioned Postcards: True Stories That Never Happened, by Jason Rodriguez, another graphic novel. I'm adding a bunch of requests today on my library account.

That sounds like quite an exciting story Mark!

I found the selection of English books at the library is quite... unpredictable. For example, they're lacking some great classics (couldn't find any Evelyn Waugh), and they don't usually carry titles that are a bit more obscure, but they DO have quite a good selection of Sandman titles and a few brand new arrivals that I was very happily surprised to find there. I've reserved quite a few books, so the next few months should be interesting.

Hey, FF has been quite a hit, right?

You did good Mark, I've enjoyed it quite a lot.

*pantpantwheezecough*

Whew! Finally caught up on your threads, young man! You've certainly been busy reading (and, unfortunately, shoveling). I solemnly swear that I will Keep Up From Now On! *crosses heart & raises right hand*

Claudia- Yes, I'm glad I took the day off! Thank you! I'm dragging a bit today, hope I'm not coming down with something. Fingers crossed.

Linda- I'll add Postcards too! I hope you enjoy Night Bookmobile. It's a very quick read.

Ilana- It's great you are returning to the library. How's their selection of graphics & audios?

Laura- Sorry to make you run so much! See, you not only get to visit friends, you get a full work-out!

I got quite a bit of reading in today. I'm over half-way through The Windup Girl. It's a good read but slow. I also read a nice chunk of my current graphic, Black Hole. Quite dark & disturbing. I'm not sure who I'll be recommending this one to. It reminds me of one of David Cronenberg's twisted films.

Don't know about graphics yet, but they do have a decent audio selection, several of which I've reserved and wishlisted already.

As for FF, I don't know if I'll be able to fit in anymore fantasy books this month as have quite a few that I MUST send out in the beginning of March as people have been waiting for the a LONG time. But I promise you it's not for lack of wanting to. Maybe I'll manage to fit in another audiobook or two... ;-)

I was happy to see you enjoyed the The Maze Runneras I have it on my Kindle. Another book I can look forward to.

Maze Runner looks interesting. But then all your books look interesting!
--BJ

I need to find where I put my copy of The Maze Runner.

Happy Monday, Mark!

Maze Runner sounds too good.. darn it!

Morning everyone! Yesterday, I felt a cold coming on, but I don't feel to bad this A.M. Regardless, let's get this Monday over with!

Ilana- I think you've done great on FF! I didn't expect everybody to read fantasy-based books, all month. Let me know what audiobooks you get!

Judy, BJ, Stasia & Kath- Yes, I think you will all like The Maze Runner. It's not a light read, but it's fast-paced and inventive. The 2nd book in the series is already out too. Good time to start it then!

Have a great day guys!

Hi Mark... glad you are feeling better. Hope it holds out for you. Maze Runner - what a concept. I like inventive! You got me interested. :)

Catching up!

Hope you have a good Monday and a Happy Valentines Day Mark! :)

Happy V-Day, Mark. I've been lurking here, just haven't had much to say about all the fantasy and graphic novels being read around your neck of the woods.

I bought my granddaughter a beautiful and highly-recommended book by LT readers yesterday. I am tempted to read it this week before her Saturday birthday. I think Where the Mountain Meets the Moon qualifies as fantasy. There is a magical goldfish and a dragon who can't fly in the story. Good enough for the Fantasy February thread?

Donna, I highly encourage you to read Where the Mountain Meets the Moon before Saturday, regardless of qualifying for FF or not. It's a fantastic book, I totally loved it, and it's one of my most recent 5 star reads.

Happy Monday, Mark!

Closed in on the end of Game of Thrones. Only have about 200 pages to go. Glad to hear that the second Rothfuss is finally coming out. I may have to read that one soon.

Those of you who are really getting into the fantasy genre might be interested to know that there is a Guy Gavriel Kay group read going on in March. I have not read any Kay but he, like G. Martin, has a legion of fans. He writes historical fantasy that is highly recommended. If this months fantasy titles are tickling your fancy do this group read with me and some others in March. I have been wanting to read Under Heaven for a year so figured that March was the month to do it. I'll be joining Mark for his Murder in May group read because by that time my fantasy brain should be sated.

I can't believe it - the weather that is. Last week we had two inches of snow and the highs were in the 30's (and that is very cold for us), and we just had a wonderful weekend. Today the temps should be in the high 60's. Go figure!

To all my special pals: Happy Valentine's Day! I'm eating alone, my wife is off tending to "That" Aunt and will eat with her. I sauteed some spinach & mushrooms, to go along with a leftover stuffed pork-chop, toss in a side salad, I'm golden!
Nice today! Mid-40s, sun came out in the afternoon. It's amazing how much of the white stuff has melted off. Big smile!

Claudia- I'm feeling better. I'm wondering if my seasonal allergies have just crept around a bit early. They usually start kicking in late Feb, early March.
I think you would like The Maze Runner. It's a fast read.

Kara- Good to see you! Is Fla, starting to heat up?

Donna- I was wondering if there was a reason for your lack of visits. Did I make an inappropriate comment? Did I post a picture of a certain animal you despise? Now, I know! It was Fantasy! Yes, I have 2 more left and then I'll be back playing major catch-up. I need a crime fix too!
And yes, anything with a magical goldfish and a dragon, will qualify!

Laura- Good to see you, as promised! Another big smile!

Benita- Once again I'm so glad you are loving "Thrones". So you were a fan of The Name of the Wind? I'll be starting that in just a few days. Very excited about it. This will be my "first true" fantasy of the month.
How is Leviathan coming?

hello Mark! Has the warm been happening there?

Hi Mark. Glad you're feeling better and that the snow is melting! It seemed like it was brutal there for awhile.

Besides being busy with work etc, I'm not reading any fantasy this month, though that one Connie Willis is still appealing to me.

Next month, I'm aiming for a major baseball books fix.

Hi Mark, glad to know the weather is being kind to you and that you're still smiling despite the fact that your wife isn't with you on Valentine's Day. I personally never like V-Day. When I was with someone, it didn't seem right to me that just one day of the year should be reserved for being romantic (everyday should be an occasion to let someone know you love them, I think) and since I've been single for eons and have given up on the idea of having a human partner, it just reminds me of what a bitter old maid I've become. Snif! ;-)

Oh yes, posting it here first:

I've just put up the Mystery March Thread!

Hope you and your pals join in!

>48 msf59:: Now Mark, I've never known you to say anything inappropriate. I'm so glad my goldfish and dragon book made the cut so I can have some fun with the FF group. Laura, so glad to hear Where the Mountain Meets the Moon is a 5-star book. I read about it on LT and fell in love with the way it looks and feels in Borders yesterday. I know my g'daughter will love it too.

>49 mckait:: Mystery March, huh? Maybe I'll get some more of my Laurie R. King books read...and then there's those P.D. James books I've wanted to get back to.

YOIK!

********i be here**********

;-}

Kath- Yes, it was almost pleasant today. I drove home with the window cracked a couple inches. It supposed to hover around 40 for most of the week. I'll take it.

Pat- Yes, it was a rough stretch, but I can see the finish line. It's faint but I can just make it out.

Linda- Starting to hear Cubbie talk! Yah! Marmol signed! Yah again!

Ilana- We don't do much for Valentine's Day either! I prefer getting flowers for her at random times. It seems to mean more. Those neat surprises!
Why have you gave up on a human partner? There's got to be a good-looking book-lover/ pet owner out there somewhere?
Thanks for starting the Mystery Thread. I'll stop by here and there. March is catch-up month for me, lots waiting in the wings.

Why give up on a human partner as opposed to just live happily ever after with rescue animals?

Do you have time to read an entire novel about it?

LOL :-D

No seriously. Not joking. :-|

glitter-graphics.com

Hey Mark, Happy V-Day!

Sounds like the perfect opportunity to have a book act as a dinner partner. :)

My hubby went out and picked up a pizza for our big dinner tonight. To be fair, we all went out yesterday, and it's a Monday, my volunteer night, so going out would have been tricky (and way too busy).

I'm working my day off today, bummer, but at least it will be another 40 degree day and possibly 50 on Thursday. Bye bye snow! Don't let the door hit ya...

Ilana- "Do you have time to read an entire novel about it?" Okay, I'll bite, what is it?

Joanne- Hope you had a nice V-Day too! Actually LT was my dinner partner last night. The book came later.

I'm on the home stretch with The Windup Girl. The book is a bit cold and dense at times, but overall I'm really enjoying it. Full Dark No Stars has been just okay. His later short stories and novellas just have not been clicking with me.

high 74 lows around 45-50 :)

nice !

Leviathan just isn't grabbing me. However, it is a good book and I understand its appeal. I am still only about 100 pages in and perhaps not "into" the story yet. I am reading it over my lunch hour and so it is going a little slower. I am also going to try and read the sequel of this one. I do wonder if the reason I am not enamored of it is that it is YA and seems so simplistic. Before all you YA fans go nuts - I do read YA and like it. I loved Libba Bray and the Jemma Doyla books. They were great. I did hate Hunger Games and don't understand why everybody else likes all that gratuitous violence. That is one series of which I will not be reading any sequels. But that kind of reaction is rare. I just am finding leviathan a bit blah!

Repeat after me

"Sorry, no"

"Sorry, no"..

"Sorry, no".......

Mark, I'll have to sit down and write the novel first! ;-)

Not to be coy, I'll sum it up for ya. I've been unlucky in love, was mostly attracted to the wrong type of men who didn't have a clue that I was more than just a pretty face and ran as soon as they saw too many signs of intelligence (are you crying for me yet?)

But seriously, I'm a nightmare to live with, so I thought I'd just spare humanity and have been a hermit ever since. There you have it. :-)

ETA: Thanks for starting the Mystery Thread. No need to thank me since you're the one who gave me the idea.

Kara- Green with envy, although now they are predicting high 50s for Thurs! Yah!

Benita- Sorry to hear Leviathan isn't stoking your fire. I agree it's a bit on the light side, as far as depth and characterization but taking it on face value, I enjoyed it. Richard mentioned that the sequel, is actually better written. We'll see.
The Hunger Games is another one, we disagree on. I loved it.

Kath- ???

Ilana- I get 1st dibs, on reading your memoirs! I appreciate your honesty. I can't imagine you are that BAD! Hey, as long as you are happy, that's all that matters. One thing is for sure, I'm glad we made our LT acquaintance!

Well, so far I've got you and Madeline (SqueakyChu) who are wanting to read my memoirs here on LT, along with a handful of my dedicated blog readers (go figure). So on the strength of that, I'll just have to set myself down, and write the damn thing. Goodness knows I have plenty of diaries I've filled in over the years to base myself on!

As for 'not being that bad', that all depends on your perspective. I tend to be a very harsh self-critic, this is true. But it's also a fact that while I can be very sweet, gentle and kind, I can also be a fury to deal with when treated badly or when I see an injustice being done to someone. I've always been very moody, which is hard enough for me to deal with, but must have been positively bewildering for anyone very close to me over the years. I did find out a decade ago that it's a medical condition for which I am under treatment, so at least I can console myself with the fact that there are plenty others out there like me, but it's not the sort of thing that would tend to make me look that great to possible prospects on a resumé. ;-)

ETA: One thing is for sure, I'm glad we made our LT acquaintance! I'm very happy and lucky to count you among my friends here. You're a very swell guy, as I'm sure everyone else agrees.

, no.. sorry... can't make it in today.. I have plans :(

Ilana- Well, it sounds like I don't want to get on your bad side. I will remain on my best behavior.
"The Major Book Geek Was A Very Swell Guy". Kind of brings a tear to your eye, doesn't it?
Okay, I'm 2nd in line for those memoirs. Don't forget!

Kath- Now, I get it! Actually I'm on the OT list for my own route, so it's not easy to say no. I declined 2 weeks ago, for my Saturday off, something about a family function or some nonsense. See, I fib occasionally, but only if it's really important to me.

I don't want to get on your bad side

I don't see how you ever could Mark. I'm not that easily set off either, but I've known people to do despicable things that would make your eyes pop. In which case I either get depressed about the existence of such cruelty and ignorance in the world (I don't watch the news for that reason), or I speak up and set the limits straight. I figure the latter option is more healthy.

ETA: I meant 'Swell Guy' in the best possible way, I promise. I sometimes use expressions that once were taken to be positive affirmations (probably some time in the 50's) and have sadly become mildly offensive because used with the wrong intent over time. To wit: "Good for you". When I say it, I really do mean it in the best possible way.

Have a great Wednesday!

No fibbing needed. I say No, sorry.. I have plans .. all the time. I always have plans. Most of the time it is to do as little as possible, or read or ? But plans they are. No fibbing for me! I am very fortunate that I do not have to do any overtime work. I never sign up for respite work, because believe me.. I need my time off too. so? Anyway.. sorry you lost your day off :(

Ilana- I took your "swell guy" in a positive way! I'll be starting my last Fantasy book tomorrow, The Name of the Wind. It's a "true" fantasy and I'm looking forward to it.

Stasia- Big wave toward Texas!

Kath- I was enjoying my days off for awhile there, you get spoiled but at least the weather is improving and the snow and ice is taking a hike. Bye!

I only have a few minutes left on the latest Stephen King. It's been just okay and I'm glad I did it on audio. Next up, is the audio of Snow Flower and the Secret Fan.

I might of missed it but which King are you listening to?

Snow Flower I have had on my wishlist forever...:)

ETA...don't mind me, I just saw your 3 stars onFull Dark, No Stars :)

Hi Mark, drive by waves!!!!!!!!!

Whoosh!! Another drive by wave!!

I guess i'll join the Drive-by Posse!

;-)

I am a fan of Name of the Wind and am glad to see that there is a sequel out soon. Very interesting spin on fantasy.

Unlike some readers I don't get stuck on sequel or no sequel. I love series and read plenty of them but I don't anxiously wait for a sequel. There are just too many other good books out there.

I read a book and if I like it I do want to read more, but if I have other good books to read I can wait for a sequel. I don't have to have a resolution right now. I sort of like to savor the book and let it settle anyway if the book was really intense and I invested emotional energy and time in reading it. Sometimes more of the same intensity if just too much. I loved Shadow of the Wind and was glad that the second book in the series was not published until several years after the first. Angel's Game was not at all like the first and wasn't really a sequel, but was still an intense read. While they were similar to each other they were also very different and reading those two back to back would not have allowed me to appreciate each for what it was.

I read the first two of the Steig Larrson books close together and then had to wait for the third for a couple of months. I was entertained by a couple of other good books in between and didn't count the hours until I could get my hands on the third. I will also add, that the ending of the series didn't bother me either. It ended where it ended. I will always wonder what happened to Salander and company, but don't stay awake nights speculating. I also didn't pine for a sequel to Gone With the Wind and never read the one that was published and have no plans to do so.

What's up with all the drive-byes? Can't stop by longer, pull up a chair, chat a bit? Talk books, weather, books?

Wow! Nice day! Close to 50. No hat, light jacket. Love it!

I finished Full Dark No Stars. 3 stars, nothing spectacular. Actually the Afterword was my favorite part, where King explained his ideas for each story.

As promised, I listened to the 1st couple hours of Snow Flower. I'm sure this has been discussed before, but her descriptions of "foot binding", were absolutely horrific! These poor little girls! Mangled & deformed, for what??
I better go eat dinner, if I can!

Hi Mark! Glad you had a nice day!
Until I read Snow Flower I really didn't have a realistic idea of the cruel procedures used for foot binding. For what? Apparently men found dainty little feet sexy - but I also read it was a way to keep the women under control and home. They could not walk or run off very far. Too painful. :(

I'm glad that I know about the foot binding and actually learned about it a long time ago, so it shouldn't shock me too much when I get into Snow Flower, but yes, what a disgusting thing to do to little girls.

There are many, many, many various forms of mutilation that have been performed on women throughout the ages in the name of beauty that persist to this day. In Victorian times, corsets were worn so tight because the ideal figure consisted of an unnaturally tiny waist that women could hardly breathe, which explains why fainting spells were so frequent. And when you think about it, invasive plastic surgery is also a form of mutilation (sure isn't pretty while it's getting done!), but we accept it as a society because presumably the women (and men) who choose to go that route are doing so willingly and under sedation. But there's still pain involved, and while I'm not making a stand against plastic surgery here, it's kind of sad when people feel they need to make themselves look like models and movie stars (who themselves have had loads of 'work' done) to be considered beautiful. Quirks are beautiful too! What happens when we all end up looking the same??

But yes, foot binding... I think I'll wait to eat dinner for a while too. Yech. And Claudia is right of course that it was indeed a way to keep women 'in their place', and quite literally too!!

You said pull up a chair and stay a while, so there's my contribution. ;-)

Benita- I'm starting The Name of the Wind tomorrow. I have a MM paperback of it but I just requested a hardback from the library. It's a big ass book and it might be easier to read that way. I loved Shadow of the Wind too. I've had Angels Game sitting on a shelf for months.

Claudia- Yes, my day went well. Sexy dainty little feet? Do those things even look like feet when they are through? I can only picture little blocks of flesh. Ewwww. Keeping them in their place, makes much more sense.

Ilana- "You said pull up a chair and stay a while, so there's my contribution" Now, that's what I'm talking about. No dainty wave!
As far as "foot binding", we are talking about little girls, who do not have a say. Plastic surgery is an adult decision. A child though? Pisses me off!

I loved Snow Flower when I read it a few years ago, Mark. Interesting how the term "foot binding" sounds relatively benign compared to what actually happens. I was shocked to discover that it's a practice that went on for something like 1000 years. Just think about how long that is!

Mutilation in the name of beauty isn't just an ancient tradition. Some of the things woman do now is pretty horrific. In Asia, women are known to cut off their pinkie toes in order to fit into the super pointy shoes. As well, in order to look more like Europeans, A LOT and I mean more than half the population will cut a slit in their eyelids in order to create the look of "double eye-lids" since it is not a common natural occurrence among ethnic Asians.

Drag Angel's Game off those shelves and get it read. It is totally different than Shadow of the Wind but still good. It was also interesting to find the connections between the two books. They are very subtle but they are there. And both of them have the Cemetery of Lost Books. You could read this one for your mystery May reading.

Name of the Wind was a real surprise. I got my copy as a freebie from a friend and knew nothing about it when I started reading it. It was pre librarything days and so it was not on my radar. My copy was also a MM paperback and I admit that it was harder to read now than it would have been ten years ago, (how did that size of print get to be so small?) but I am glad I got it as it turned out to be a great read.

Hmmmm I picked up a used copy of The Angel's Game a couple of weeks ago and you're making me want to read it right away. I enjoyed Shadow of the Wind very much.

BTW Mark Lord of Misrule is turning out to be a very good read after all, one I think you'd probably enjoy. I should finish it up and hopefully get the review written tonight.

I think I'll add Shadow of the Wind to my Mystery March pile. It's been sitting on my shelves for too long.

I think I have both Shadow of the Wind and The Angels Game on my TBR shelves. It's sad when I can't remember what all I have there!

I have nothing useful to add to the conversation, but I came, I read, and I want you to know I care. I won't wave. :P

Joanne- Thanks for chiming in on Snow Flower. I'm enjoying it. It's structured like The Shanghai Girls. A nice simple style.

Stasia- Love the bear! Bears have always been my favorite animal, although tigers are now a close second.

Valerie- Thanks for pointing those abuses out! Once again, if an adult wants to mutilate themselves, it's their body. But a kid?

Benita- Yes, I will move The Angel's Game up in the stacks. Unfortunately, it's been a long while since I finished Shadow of the Wind.
I read the over 60 pages of The Name of the Wind and I'm sold already. He's got a nice smooth narrative style and an original voice. Not as hard-edged as Martin, at least this early on.

How is my favorite mail carrier today?

Bonnie- Glad to hear that about Lord of Misrule. If you would have came down on the negative side, it would have been tougher for me to add it to the queue.

Ilana & Katie- Do yourself a favor and start reading Shadow of the Wind. It's a book lovers dream!

Kim- "but I came, I read, and I want you to know I care". That's perfect and that's all I ask from my favorite Oregonian!

Hi Kath- Doing well, thanks! Just trying to get caught up on a couple of threads. The temp was showing high 50s, but it was damp and windy. Most of the snow has gone, Yah, but it does leave behind an ugly mess. Mud and dog crap.

You don't need to read Shadow of the Wind in order to like Angel's Game. Two different stories. Only the setting is the same.

*waves*

I could get used to this weather, I tell you! I can't wait until it is nice enough to put the puppy outside for playtime (she loves being outside). Well, you are a lot more chipper than my dad is at having to work overtime- but hey, fat paycheck- woohoo!

Hi Mark...

Simply stopping in to wish you well.

I think that just makes my blood boil because so much of it is a cultural thing. Girls when they are young are taught and told that beauty is defined in this way and that way...so when they are grown adults, they still live with those stereotypes and thus the physical mutilations and alterations like skin bleaching...bleh!
Sorry I'll stop ranting now :)
Really need to get to that book faster as it is currently chilling in my TBR pile.

Benita- Yes, I will move it up to the "must read soon" shelf!

Tam- Hopefully, you are feeling better! High 40s today, with sunshine. sounds really nice.

Linda- Good to see you! Hope you are doing well!

Valerie- Snow Flower is a pleasant, (except for the foot stuff) and quick read. I liked her book Shanghai Girls too!

Can't wait to get back to The Name of the Wind. It's going to be a great one to close out FF!!

#98: I am glad to see you are thinking so highly of The Name of the Wind, Mark!

Hi Mark, I'll send you some of our wind to help dry up the mud and slush. I'm having a mini (and premature) case of spring fever this week. Only a few snow hills left in the yard gives me hope for spring.

It looks like I need to pull my copy of The Shadow of the Wind and read along with Ilana and Katie. I know I'm going to love it. Maybe I'm subconsciously saving it in case I ever suffer from the dreaded book slump.

My goal for today is to read through the FF thread and add my token fantasy read for the year month.

Quiet over here on the Threads! Did everyone take off for the weekend? Once again, a chilly gusty wind ruined a perfect sunny day. The snow is just about gone though! Amazing. Just look on my profile picture, to see how much we had, just a couple weeks ago.

Stasia- I read another nice chunk of The Name of the Wind today. It's so good and a fast read, which helps since it's over 700 pages. So, you have not read it, correct?

Donna- I'm surprised you haven't read Shadow of the Wind! What have you been doing, anyway? Hey, it's great seeing you stop by FF Thread, with a contribution.

I'm here! I don't go anywhere on weekends, am happy right here in my own home. I just got a bunch of books from the library and also free audios from LibriVox.org. I just blabbed about it all on my thread, but looks like I'll be adding a couple more fantasy reads for you FF! :-)

Hi Mark! Happy to report I started reading again today. Yikes - got a little nervous for a couple days there. Got back in the saddle with a fantasy! Yahoo!

Sorry about the wind... but ah... aren't you in Chicago...the ah... "Windy City"?

#103 We're the Windy City because of our politicians, not because of the wind. That's the story I've heard, anyway.

Today was the first morning in weeks that I could see over the top of the snow pile at the bottom of the driveway.

So Mark, do you get a 3-day weekend? I've got a 4-day one, myself.

#101: No, I have not read it. I am very leery about beginning the series knowing that it is not complete yet.

Edited to try and make sense

Just popping in to prove that I do read this thread. :)

I did start Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell last night for Fantasy February, but then realised I really should be reading my book for bookgroup... *sigh* But I think JS&MR might still win out, it had a very charming start.

And what have I been doing this weekend? Buying a new washing machine, as our "white" goods continue to die apace. (Last year was the triumvirate of: computer, television, and fridge, all irreparably breaking over about a nine month period. Luckily the washing machine is the last pricey item in the house, everything else is - relatively - cheap to replace.) No new books for a while for me, I think.

Morning everyone! I work today and then I'm off the next 2, Monday being the holiday. I will gladly take it.

Ilana- You are kicking butt, my friend! Nothing but audios, fantasy & misc, should be keeping you busy.

Claudia -So glad you got over that book funk hump! Now, you have a whole weekend to get caught up.

Linda- I've heard that about the "Windy City" too! Now some rain and light snow coming in. Enjoy your 4 day weekend. Sounds nice!

Stasia- I think you will really like it and the next book comes out in a couple weeks.

Wookie's here, Wookie's here! Well, at least it looks like you have all new appliances. You should be okay for a few years. Fingers crossed.
Jonathan Strange sounds very appealing. I didn't realize it was such a "chunkster". BTW- I'm loving Name of the Wind, speaking of chunksters.

#107: The next book comes out in a couple of weeks, but is that the end? I do not think so.

dropping by to visit..

Just had to stop by and say hi! Yes, I am so addicted to my Icelandic Series. I see you have Snow Flower on the go. I hope you enjoy it! It was such a sad book and such an eye opener to me! I had no idea what foot binding really represented or did to women in China until I read that book. Shanghai Girls was wonderful too -but so much different from Snowflower and Secret Fan. I think I had tears in my eyes at the end of Shanghai Girls - and you know how I love bleak novels!;) Have a great long weekend! It takes a lot for a novel to bring tears to my eyes!;)

Stasia- I try not to get to hung up on these series books. I know it took 4 years for him to write the 2nd one. Whatever! It's not like we don't have a zillion other books to read in between. I'll probably get to Book 2, in a few months.
The main thing is, this 1st book is a lot of fun!

Kath- Big wave!

Deb- You mean you don't just read Icelandic Crime Fiction? Cool! I finished Snow Flower. It's a good read. I think I liked Shanghai Girls better!

LOL! Sad to say, I think there are only 6 Icelandic Crime Fiction translated into English! Next think I'll be forced back to CanLit, Switzerland, or Norway - or maybe China! :)

My edition of Jonathan Strange (which won out over my bookgroup book) is nearly 1000 pages. It's hard to read in bed, it's just so awkward to handle. (I'm coping, however.)

I have Name of the Wind on Mt TBR, thanks to comments here and elsewhere...

With series, I rarely read them back-to-back. I need more variety in my books than that! And I hardly ever rush out and buy the next as soon as it hits the shelves - Harry Potter being the exception. But I do like continuing with characters and their stories, and I can get frustrated with long delays between books, not least because I've forgotten all the details by the time the next book comes out!

Hi, Mark! I lost you for a while, but now I have you starred!

I'm with you on the series discussion Mark. Even when I do have several books in one series on hand, I never go straight from one to the other, because I like to move between different books, different worlds, otherwise I get restless very quickly.

Ooh, I'm the same too. Except for a few cases, Louise Penny and Donna Andrews and fantasy series comes to mind, I don't usually read a series in order, but tend to jump around.

Deb- Have I asked you about Karin Fossum? She's another very good Scandinavian crime writer. Give her a shot!

I have to think about this, but I don't think I've read back to back books, by the same author or part of a series, in a long long time. I like to space out both by at least a few months. With that said, I almost always try to read them in series order. I am a bit anal about that.

Terri- I hope you don't lose me again! :-}

Caro- Great to see you posting! You didn't care for any of Lisa See's books, correct?

Hi there Mark, glad to hear you have a holiday Monday; good time to get some reading done.

I'm glad to hear I'm not the only one who doesn't read series straight through! I need variety or else I get a bit anxious, even if I'm loving the story. I need a few books in between and then I'm happy to jump back in. It's completely contrary to my husband, who'll read a 10-book series from beginning to end without pause, and can't understand why *I* can't do it too so we can talk about the books together... *facepalm*

I have no reading rules regarding series or anything else. I guess that is why I don't do well in group reads or other situations where I have to read this or that now!

I am such a mood reader, it just depends on what I feel like reading. I may read straight through a series, and have done.. or I may meander through with other books in between, or a combination of the above. Any rules about how I should read just do not work for me.

FF was fun for me in that it got me to a couple of fantasy books I had on the shelf.. but, then I was done and needed something else.. so my rule of no rule is what it is

Interesting discussion on reading series! I like to leave room between books in a series too. Sometimes more - sometimes less... but I like it to be my choice. It drives me crazy to read a good book with the implication that there is more to come and I have to wait years for the next one!

It's all sorta like eating yummy foods. If it's strawberries, I want to eat them all now! If it's lobster, I want to stretch it out over the summer. And if it's blueberry pie, I can wait for the next one - but don't make it TOO long! :)

mmmm lobster.. I love lobster.. but prefer to eat it after it no longer looks like itself.. like out of a pot. too.. alive looking otherwise..

I know.

Wimp

Morning everyone! I'm getting over here a little later than usual, been messing around other places, downloading music and such. Now, I have to get focused and knock out a couple mini-reviews! Ugly outside, sleety rain, gloomy. My lab is shivering in the nearby bathroom. She won't even go out!

Bonnie- I wish I could stay home and read all day. Perfect day for it! But life intrudes and we have to go to my BILs, for his birthday party. A houseful of aggressive children and not much space. Yikes!

One thing is for sure, in regards to series fiction, is the task of trying to keep up with them. LT has made this a monumental chore (but in a fun way) and I really have to discipline myself.

Kath- I'm glad you could join us for a couple of books, over on FF. I cleared a few books off my shelf too and had a lot of fun doing it.

#123: Ugly outside, sleety rain, gloomy

Sounds like a great day to do nothing but read! Sorry you do not have that option, Mark.

It is cloudy outside here today too. I hope I am sleeping, not reading :)

20) The Windup Girl by Paolo Bacigalupi 4.3 stars

Somewhere in our dark future, most of the civilized world has collapsed, including the superpowers, due to avarice, disease and shoddy planning. Thailand, somehow, becomes the center of the world and it’s not a pretty place. Food has become king and whoever possesses it, controls the game.
We follow several characters through this dangerous dystopian landscape, including a crafty businessman, a couple police officers and a beautiful Windup Girl. A young woman genetically-engineered, for obedience and pleasure. She is truly an engaging creature and becomes the “soul” of the story, as she finds herself in the center of corruption and a looming revolution.
This not always an easy read. It can be violent, cold and ugly. The author doesn’t offer much hope but I found his world-building fascinating and wildly inventive. His prose is also strong and skillful.
“To the north, the distance is lost in the orange haze of dung burn and humidity, but somewhere out there, if the pale scarred farang is to be believed, windups dwell. Somewhere beyond the armies that war for shares of coal and jade and opium, her own lost tribe awaits her. She was never Japanese; she was only ever a windup. And now her true clan awaits her, if only she can find a way”.

#125: Already in the BlackHole. Glad to see you enjoyed it, Mark!

The Windup Girl has been on THE LIST for a while...guess I'll have to give it a bump!! Gave you a Thumb(p)!!

As fro Series reading.....I could never do back-to-back for more than the first two..in any series. After that Overload kicks in..and it's like a tape loop that becomes flawed....glitch glitch glitch.....and, besides, some Series really are stinko at Book Three..

We're supposed to get rain, but the weather folk keep pushing it a day later..now, it's going to rain on Tuesday! Whenever..it's chilly and damp but the mud is drying.....

Nice review, Mark! Even though it gets some good ratings I think I'll wait before putting it on the wishlist.

As for series reading, usually I like to space things out a bit. That is, unless there was some big whopper of a tease that the book ended on - in that case, everyone had best clear a path until I can get my hands on the next book! I do tend to read authors' individual series closer together. For instance, Rhys Bowen has three separate series and I can read hers back-to-back if I'm rotating each series without much of a problem. *shrugs*

Sorry you can't be home with your nose in a book today. Travel safely!

125 (msf59): Hmm, your reaction is rather different than mine. Where you see "the 'soul' of the story", I see a damsel in distress.

#117 : Marky-Mark .. I liked Snow Flower and the Secret Fan a lot but I wasn't much of a fan of Peony in Love or Shanghai Girls.

Loved your review, especially the quotation at the end. Off to the obese wish list it goes. ;-)

Oh I have news for you... I may have to cancel my registration for the BOTNS weekend ... it's starting to look as if I have to be traveling that same week. :-(

Stasia- I don't have to leave until 1:30, it gives me a couple more hours of book time. Name of the Wind has me firmly in it's embraces.

Jude- I think it would be a book you would like. Dark & intelligent. Hope you are resting easy today.

Laura- Supposedly, Name of the Wind has a "big whopper of a tease" ending! Well, at least the 2nd book is coming out real soon! I'm not familiar with Rhys Bowen. Good stuff?

qebo- Yeah, opinion is a bit divided on Windup Girl, so I expected some different reactions. I also saw Emiko as a "damsel in distress", but I also think she was much more than that.

Caro- That is sad! I'll be very lonesome! I hope it somehow works out. I actually have to much invested in it, to back out now.

Hi Marl: I saw that it's 34 with freezing rain at home. It's 70 and sunny here in St Loo so I'm going out to the park across the street to read. A nice day of R & R.

Thought I would pop over. I've heard Shadow of the Wind mentioned several times. I think I will just give in and add it to my March reads.

Good review on Windup Girl. Thumbs up for me. Sadly, I won't have room to read it this FF, but I look forward to it. I also want to read the interview with Bacigalupi before reading it, as was suggested on the FF thread.

I finished reading Game of Thrones this weekend. Gave it five stars. (I can hear your astonishment.) It was really well done. However, I have no plans to go out and buy the second book right away. I really want to know what happens but have serious budget constraints right now, so I am sure that all the characters in the books will wait until I can get the next book. I confess that this book surprised me and I only read it because it will be on HBO soon with that luscious Sean Bean starring in it. It also helped that it was a group read on this fantasy February thing and so many people here highly recommended it. The real kicker for purchasing it was that I just got this Nook for Christmas and the Nook version was only $5.00. What's up with that? I also noticed that the next in the series is also $5.00 while most of the Nook Books are now at $12.99 or $9.99.

Series reading is always problematic for me. I like to read series books because if I like the characters I want to know more about them. They become like friends. However, I agree with Mark in that my reading is not driven by reading the next just because there is more. What drives my reading is more what is the price of the book, and can I get a discount when I purchase it. You can tell that I haunt used book stores and libraries for that reason. I love reading but it can be an expensive hobby.

I haven't canceled yet, Marky-Mark. There is an outside chance that I won't have to be away during the weekend of the retreat, so I'm hoping the meetings will be confirmed for the end of March or after the weekend.

Linda- I hope you are having a great time in St. Loo! I can't believe it's 70 down there! Have a safe trip back!

TW- Good to see you! It was great having you join us on FF! And yes, I highly recommend Shadow of the Wind. It's a joy!

Ilana- I loved that interview too! Once again, there is mixed opinion on The Windup Girl, I just ended up really liking it.

Benita- I know you are very stingy with your 5 star ratings, so giving Game of Thrones the full-boat speaks volumes. Good news too, the next 2 books are equally as good! I'm looking forward to the HBO series. It's looking promising.

Caro- Well, you know I hope it works out! Remember the 3 Amigos!! I need to get on Good Reads and see if I can find a ride from the airport in Albany to Manchester. I think there was a Thread for that purpose.

Just me...catching up...
I really need to read The Shadow of the Wind. I even own it and everything. A shortage of time is my only excuse.
Oh, and on your last thread - it was really wonderful of you to open your home to your aunt like that. I know it isn't easy, but it just shows what a good heart you have.

Quiet over here on the Threads! People must be off to work or sleeping in!

Angela- Good to see you! Yes, pull down Shadow of the Wind and get to it. Thanks for your comment about my Aunt! Appreciate it!

Have a great day off, Mark!

I do hope to get in plenty of reading..
some cooking and laundry in my future though..

Morning Stasia- Thanks! You are off too, right?

I haven't mentioned the Chicago Meet-Up in quite some time but suddenly it's less than a month away. Saturday March 19th. I need a count, so PM me and stop by the Thread: Right Here
I hope the interest is still there!

I will be off tonight. As for now, I am still at the office.

Wish I could make the Chicago meet up, but sorry I cannot.

>135 benitastrnad: I just saw Sean Bean in new historical piece, Black Death, which was pretty good.

You off today?

Kath also....... hmmm

she is making chicken and dumplings :) you cooking? reading? or just relaxing?

which ever just enjoy your day!

Stasia- I wish you could make it too! Maybe you'll win the lotto, in the next couple weeks! :-}

Kara- Yes, I'm off for President's Day! My wife is working, so yes, I will make dinner. Most likely salmon!
After some errands and a Dr's appointment, it will be me & books! Gloomy, chilly day here.

oops forgot it was President's Day :)

when your a nurse you work most holidays......just a Monday for me :)

Salmon! Yum...I made catfish this weekend :)

#146: Since I do not play the lotto that would be interesting to say the least! :)

Enjoy your day of reading, Mark, once you get those pesky errands out of the way. Salmon sounds good to me. Your wife is a lucky woman. My husband isn't much of a cook but he's the Wizard of Takeaway meals!

I enjoyed my visit to the FF thread. Lots of fun stuff going on there. I'll be reading Huck Finn for class tomorrow. I don't know why I'm surprised at this, but I'm enjoying it much more than I thought I would.

Stasia- LOL! I don't play the lotto either, my wife does occasionally.

Donna- Good to see you! I don't do anything fancy, as far as cooking goes, I keep it simple but effective. Is this your first time reading Huck Finn? I've read it a couple times. An amazing read! I need to get to more Twain! You have a good day too!

Hi Mark! Yay for days off! It's good no matter what you do.

I'm reading Room now and not liking it much... but I haven't gotten far yet. I'll push through as it has gotten such good reviews... and it's for our local book club. Sometimes the books I don't like at first can surprise me... ya know?

Good morning, Mark. Glad to hear you have the day off and lots of reading scheduled. I saw you were just starting Maus II on another thread. I have that out of the library along with another graphic novel called Shortcomings by Adrian Tomine that I saw recommended somewhere. I'm going to try and squeeze them in between reading my last Stegner book Crossing to Safety.

Wish I could make it to the Chicago meetup.

21) Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See 3.7 stars

Lily is 80 years old and looking back at her life. The setting is China, in the mid- 19th century. She thinks of her childhood and her lifelong bond with Snow Flower, a treasured friend and soul mate. Women in this repressed society, are placed slightly higher than farm animals. Foot-binding was practiced and the author’s description of this horrid dis-figuration is stomach-churning.
This is a simple but poignant narrative told in Lily’s voice. This is the second book, I’ve read of Lisa See and I’ve enjoyed both. I’m not sure if there is much more she can say on this subject, though.

I read and enjoyed Shanghai Girls for a book club and enjoyed it more than I thought. See is supposed to be publishing a sequel to it soon, I think. I assume it'll be about the daughter's experiences in China. I own a copy of Snow Flower and the Secret Fan but have no idea when I'll get to it. The foot binding sounds awful.

#153: I will get to that one eventually. It has been in the BlackHole far too long!

>144 Tanglewood: You probably already have, but if you haven't seen Sean Bean in the Sharpe series, he's terrific as Richard Sharpe.

I second that about Sean Bean in the Sharpe series. They were really good. Historically accurate down to the uniform buttons worn on the show. The BBC does such a great job on productions like that. And the books by Bernard Cornwell were really good. I read fourteen of them and went all the way through the Pennisular War and to Waterloo with Richard Sharpe. Cornwell said that he wrote these books because he was astonished to find out, while doing some historical research, that the British Army had muzzle loading rifles in the 1790's. He also stumbled across a manual explaining how a good rifleman could load and fire a rifle three times a minute. Astonishing. This inspired Cornwell to turn to fiction to tell about this remarkable fact. The Sharpe books launched Cornwell's career. Since then Cornwell has become fascinated with the English Longbow and written some books about the development and uses of this weapon as well.

Along with background for books - Snow Flower and the Secret Fan was also based on fact. The last practitioner of a secret language used by women in a rural part of China died in the early 2000's. She was over a hundred years old and had bound feet. Until in the 1980's the Chinese government didn't even know about this language. A linguist from someplace else stumbled across it while living and doing research in rural Chinese dialects. The discovery happened during the heyday of the women's movement and there was lots of publicity about it. I heard See talk about it and how she used this discovery as the basis for this book.

I have read Snow Flower and have one of her Red Princess Mysteries books in my collection as well as Shanghai Girls but Snow Flower is the only one I have read. It was one of my best books of the year a couple of years back. See can write well and I am sure that we will see more of her work in the future.

>156 jnwelch:, 157 Yes, I enjoyed the BBC Sharpe series so much I started reading the Cornwell's books. I didn't make it all the way through the series, though, got sidetracked some where along the way. I also read his Agincourt, which I really enjoyed.

For me, it was reading the series first, and I've read every darn one of them, some more than once. I'm a fan. My daughter is, too, and we've watched all the dvds together. We're ready for more of both!

I've enjoyed a number of his other books, too, like Agincourt, although not as much as the Sharpe books.

Claudia- I hope Room grows on you more! I'm, of course, a big fan of it but it did not work for everybody.

Pat- I hope you enjoy Crossing For Safety. I loved it. Do you do audios? I listened to both of these Lisa See books and it worked out real well.
I wish you could make it to the Meet-Up too!

Benita- I read the 1st 2 "Sharpe" books and saw the first film. I really enjoyed both of them but just never went back. Thanks for all the cool facts on Cornwell and the Chinese secret language.
I liked Bean's work in the LOTR films too!

Joe- I might have to re-visit the "Sharpe" series. Are you a fan of the "Master and Commander" books, as well?

My dad is a fan of the Patrick O'Brian books like Master and Commander, Mark, and has read every one of them. For some reason they didn't grab me like they did him - I'm instead a big fan of the Horatio Hornblower books by C.S. Forester.

I loved the Hornblower books, and I loved the BBC productions. I read three of the books when I was a kid and didn't know until years later that there were more of them. I have never read any of the Patrick O'Brien books but have them on the list to get to someday. Cornwell has written more books about Richard Sharpe. Some of them are set in India and really follow the rising career of the Duke of Wellington. His career runs parallel to that of rising fortunes of the British Army, so I always wondered if the GI of the British Army was the hero or if it was Arthur Wellesley?

I watched the Sharpe production because I thought the books were good. I kept watching them because Sean Bean looked so good!

As you're saying, I think, it's Wellesley (future Duke of Wellington) featured in the India Sharpe books, and there is some other crossover with the later ones - e.g. the villainous Hakeswill appears.

I managed to get a decent amount of reading in! I finished Maus II. My God, this is strong stuff! Anyone pooh-poohing the power of the graphic form, needs to explore both these books. They are both masterful and heart-breaking.
I'm also over halfway through Name of the Wind. This has been a joy. It has a bit of everything. Of course fantasy and magical elements but there is also a bit of Oliver Twist and Harry Potter as well.

#160 Mark, this is actually a re-read of Crossing to Safety. I read it about 2 years ago and loved it. We're going to be discussing it in my class this Friday and I wanted to read it again. So far, it's just as good as I remembered.

I still haven't tried any audio books. What do you listen to yours on?

I'm hoping to start Maus II this weekend.

I'm glad you liked the Maus books. I read them for the first time about *gulp* twenty years ago and was blown away. They were my first graphic novels--I didn't even know what graphic novels were, but Spiegelman was coming to campus to speak, and I wanted to be prepared. He spoke about how graphic novels don't get the respect they deserve and the process of writing them. Then he signed my books with a mouse drawing. I didn't read any other graphic novels until The Night Bookmobile, which you enticed me to read last year. Given my lack of GN reading, I was surprised to find how indignant I was to find our school librarian shelving comics (Garfield, Calvin & Hobbes) as Graphic Novels.

I love Patrick O'Brien's Master and Commander series. Absolutely riveting and at one point, I seriously considered joining the navy because of his stories..... but after a summer camp held by the naval academy for high school students, I discovered I don't do well with their kind of hours... haha

I don't often mention films here, although I love movies (the good kind) but I have to mention an incredible documentary I just watched on dvd. It's called "Waiting For Superman" and it's about the sorry state of the US educational system. It's hard-hitting and very emotional. Please check it out. It's available on Netflix.

Pat- I use my trusty iPod for my audio pleasure and it works perfectly. You will LOVE Maus II.

Lisa- I hope you take the time to further explore the graphic world. I'm still a newbie myself but there are many incredible works to be had out there!

Caro- We are so glad you didn't join the Navy! I think I read the 1st 4 O'Brien books. I need to get back to them. Remember LT is a bully!

I'm glad I didn't join the navy too, Marky-Mark ... I'm not very good at taking orders without first considering if they're reasonable, although all those navy officers in uniform could persuade me. ;-)

Interesting convos here. I just checked the library catalogue, and they have both Maus I and Maus II. I remember when the first one came out... was interested because it was Art Spiegelman, but at the time I couldn't deal with anything to do with the Holocaust. I was exposed to lots of real footage of that time when I was a kid and it was very traumatic to me. But I think I'm ready to deal now, in small doses.

Wish I could come to the meet-up, but it's not really possible for me unfortunately.

Happy Tuesday, Mark! Stay warm today.

Is it spring yet?
too cold and snowy.. i want another day off!

Yes, winter is back. Light snow on the ground and 30 degree high. Hey, it's nearly the end of Feb, there is light at the end...

Caro- Don't picture you as Naval material! You could slip fall off the deck? Although, you can't do that on a submarine. Hmmmm...

Ilana- I cannot praise the Maus books enough!

Morning Stasia & Kath- I would like another day off too! Actually, my regular day off this week is tomorrow, which would be nice but they might need me again. We'll see.
Have a good day too!

#168 Mark, how do you get the audio books onto your iPod? Do you download them from your library's website?

Hi, Mark! I read the book Waiting for Superman but still want to watch the movie. Those Maus books are terrific. I, too, read them 20 years ago, and were my first introduction to "cartoons" being used to depict a serious subject--so powerful. Nice review of The Wind-Up Girl too. I got it for my son for Christmas and your comments make me think it was probably perfect for him because he really like apocalyptic fiction. I, myself, think there's enough evilness and destruction in the world already, thank you very much.

Quiet on the threads tonight! Cold day today but not awful! I love having a holiday but I do not like working the following day. The volume is always very heavy.

Pat- I have not had luck with the downloads from the library internet site. I'm not sure what is going on there. You can just copy the audiobooks, from the library, cd by cd and load them into your Itunes and then into your player. It's easy, just a little time-consuming. If you need anymore help, let me know.

Bonnie- Good to see you! I didn't realize Waiting For Superman was a book too! It is such an excellent film!

Go back to sleep everyone!

Hi there Mark, I haven't seen Waiting for Superman but am looking forward to it; nothing like a scathing indictment of the country's public school system to make me realize I've wasted my entire life ;-)

Bonnie- The film repeatedly mentioned the immense importance of great teachers and since you most likely fall into this category, your career should have been very rewarding.

I haven't seen the film either..
Great teachers are very important..
I have a long list of teachers I could nominate in the opposite category..
one or two for the Great! list.

Parents have to take responsibility, too. It is not up to the schools to do
all of the teaching/ educating.. classrooms are too full.. kids are too .. too..
Parents need to teach at home, as well. It has always baffled me when people leave the education of their children entirely in the hands of strangers. Makes no sense to me. If parents spent more time doing their part, classrooms would be less difficult and kids no so" too.. too.. "

Hi, Mark!
Just catching up on your thread. Nice review of Wind-Up Girl. I ended up adding it to my wishlist. I am only a third of the way through A Game of Thrones, but I absolutely love it. I have thrown over my other books just for this one. I am hoping that I can renew it at the library as I won't finish in time. However, now I think I would really like to own this book. I will definitely look for the next one. Have a great day!
--BJ

passing through! *waves*

Drive-By Wave.......

.......and I second what Kath says in #179.....Teachers are not paid Babysitters.......

;-}

Hi Mark, also just dropping by for a quick hello. Hope you're having a great day.

Kath- It does sound like the "bad" teachers really "gunk' up the works, especially with the tenure rule in place! Sorry, if that's a sore subject for anyone!

BJ- I'm so glad you are enjoying A Game of Thrones. I fell very hard for it myself and the good news is, the next 2 are just as good. I own all four! Enjoy!

Kara & Jude & Ilana- Big waves & hugs! And yes, I had a pretty good day! Another damp chilly day!

Chilly/Damp seems to be the order of the day here..

WOT?

.-)

Bad teachers are not the only reason for bad schools. End of story. Stop blaming them.

To bad we don't use the same logic when we talk about our broken banking system. I say fire all the bankers and start over. Do away with job security and big bonuses for men who lead their banks down the tubes. Make it so they can't ever ruin another bank. Maybe better parents will help them? Or is that better teachers would help them? Or maybe better laws? Or law enforcement? Where was the SEC? Lets fire them and bring in new people. They obviously weren't doing their jobs. Or maybe the SEC just promoted the banks and the bankers socially, giving them good ratings right up to the end when the banks failed the standardized tests? Obviously the SEC was just taking their example from the schools who pass kids to the next grade level because they are hopeless?

In the end each person, and that includes kids, is responsible for themselves.

How was that for a rant?

I think teachers today have a much harder job teaching because of all the restrictions placed on them by the school board and parents in terms of what they can or cannot do to discipline the kids. Plus I think kids are a lot more spoiled and disrespectful today than when I was a kid many moons ago.

Benita- There's no question, that there are many different reasons, for the problems in the educational system. I was not personally slamming teachers, I was just referring to some of the subjects brought up in the film "Waiting For Superman".
And I agree, most of these big shots that helped cause the financial collapse, walked away scot-free and are still making money hand over fist. Now that's pitiful!

Caro -Loved the squirrel story!

I'm still reading The Name of the Wind, my last "fantasy" of the month. It's been quite enjoyable. I still have 200 pages left.
I also started the audio of Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver. This one is nonfiction and it's funny and thought-provoking.

Wow Mark, any other movies you want to suggest? hahahaha

I am onto an Ian Rutledge mystery ( nook) and liking it.

I have to use the library to nook a few more times before I can call it easy..
I keep forgetting that I need to open nook first.. then I sit there looking gobsmacked when there is no way to transfer..

Bonnie- No Kidding! Maybe I'll just stick with a mindless comedy or something!

Morning Kath- I have not read Rutledge. I've seen him mentioned here quite a bit. Have you read the Kingsolver? msg #188? Have a good day!

I read Animal, Vegetable, Miracle and found it inspiring. It made me want to go out and can several bushels of tomatoes! It should change the way you look at food. Since reading that one I have wanted to read Michael Pollen but haven't gotten around to it. Botany of Desire is one of his that I have on my TBR shelves.

I read Animal, Vegetable, Miracle in 2009 when I was on the verge of buying a house with a back yard. Since then I've gradually been converting the lawn into garden beds. For flowers mostly though, because I'm worried that vegetables would go to waste, and I don't want to inflict zucchini on other people.

not that one.. not yet..

Benita & Qebo- The audio is working very well for Animal, Vegetable, Miracle. It's read by the author, her husband & oldest daughter.
I love eating vegetables and salads and this is giving me some good ideas, especially in pursuing the fresh & organic variety.
I have a very small garden: tomatoes, cukes & green peppers. I plan on expanding that baby now!

Kath- I think you would like it! This is only my 2nd Kingsolver. I'm way behind on her books.

I don't want to inflict zucchini on other people.

Lol. That's very thoughtful of you!

I have it.. somewhere.. but...

Morning Kath- ...but...? Have a good day! Hope it goes quick for you!

Ilana- Not a zucchini fan?

Woke up to more snow! When will it end? I'm getting tired of this winter nonsense. Let's move on please...like now!

I loved Animal Vegetable Miracle and I also found it inspiring! Some have said it's a little too long, and maybe that's true...I don't know. All I know is that I enjoyed it, regardless of length.

I would love to spend a year living as their family did (except for the butchering part...no thanks!)

I still have to read The Omnivore's Dilemma, but I did read In Defense of Food by Michael Pollan and I loved it. :)

Mark-a-doodle-doo, may I suggest growing a few varieties of heirloom veg? I myownself am *wild* about Green Zebra tomatoes"

for breakfast and sandwich use. Very tart, very nice accompanied by mozzarella cheese, melted a little, on a hot English muffin.

Second the heirloom tomato idea of Richard's - I've grown some green zebras and some yellow something-or-anothers, some orange-something-or-anothers, and some absolutely stunning German Johnsons, which make the best sandwiches in the world.

I loved The Omnivore's Dilemma.

I think that's the one that has a whole chapter on corn sex. (?)

#198 Mark, I'm getting tired of winter, too, but we dodged a bullet last night. They'd been predicting a few inches of snow here and there was nada.

Not that I mind.

Love the tomato pictures and love those heirloom tomato's. I remember my grandfather saving tomato seeds, pumpkin, cantaloupe, and watermelon seeds for the next year. Alas, the only thing I grow is tomatos in pots and that cuts down on the amount I get. However, I have these sisters who grown things, and one of them can't stand waste, so gathers left over food from the grocery stores and home and cans. And cans. And cans. And freezes.

One thing Kingsolver does very well in Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, is to point out the amount of time it takes to put up your own food. However, once you make it a part of your life it really doesn't take that long. I bake my own bread, and find that it really doesn't take that much time out of my day.

Now to return you to another book you read not long ago - Wave: In Pursuit of the Rogues, Freaks, and Giants of the Ocean. I heard on the news this morning that the $150,000.00 annual surfing contest held at Mavericks is canceled this year. No waves. The organizers have waited for a week and the waves just refuse to appear this year. I was half asleep until I heard that and because I am reading that same book the words surf and Mavericks caught my attention.

mmmmmm tomatoes those sound yummy :)

Hi, Mark!

*waves*

Hi Angela- I might agree that "AVM" might be on the long side, but you could never accuse Kingsolver of over-looking the details. She covers a lot of ground here.
I'll have to try something by Michael Pollan. Food looks to be his specialty.

Richard- Thanks for the mouth-watering picture! Since I have a better idea what "heirlooms" are now, I plan on giving several varieties a try. Do you grow these from seeds or seedlings?

Karen- Good to see you! Thanks for the suggestions. I will give them a try. I could always use some gardening tips.

Benita- Kingsolver has me thinking about so many things, in regards to food. I'm going to try buying "local" and more organic. I like it when she mentioned how cheap the US is about buying food, compared to the rest of the world. Yes, it's cheap and it's crap. Yes, you will pay a bit more for the "good stuff", but look at the difference in quality?
Thanks for the surfing tid-bit. No waves, huh? Are you enjoying the book?

With all this snow still on the ground, and ice forming with temperatures falling rapidly, freezing the rain that fell all day, I am finding it hard to imagine that I'll be able to plant anything any time soon. But I did like RD's picture of the green zebra tomato ... I'd never seen that before.

Marky-Mark - I've been trying to buy local as often as possible for a few years now, and I like visiting some of the local farms to buy my produce. I do feel I'm getting better quality produce.

I don't mind zucchinis. Not my favourite veg either (though I LOVE vegetables). Mostly the idea of having someone try to load up their friends with too many zucchinis made me laugh. Hm. I'm hungry. Bye for now!

Terri- Big wave!

Caro- Hey, we can dream, right? We have a Whole Foods here, which I like, but haven't bought a lot of veggies & meat from there. I'll have to start.

Ilana- There's a funny section in "AVM", about the abundance of squash and how everyone tries giving some away during growing time. There was even something about zucchini chocolate-chip cookies.

I was inspired to try and watch a couple more Oscar-nominated films, before Sunday night. I've only seen a few of the ones on the list. (I hate the decision to list 10 nominations, that's absurd!).
I watched "The Fighter" last night. It's a very good film. In a strong cast, Christian Bale steals every scene. It might be my favorite performance of the year, so far.
I plan on watching "The Kings Speech" tonight! I've heard Colin Firth is great!

You're in for a treat with "The King's Speech". I thought both Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush were great. In addition to the acting, I liked the spin on the Edward and Simpson relationship. Not quite the fairy tale some Americans make it out to have been. I'll look forward to your thoughts.

Mark, I was far behind on your thread, but I'm caught up for now. Your last couple of reviews were wonderful and you have motivated me to look for the Superman movie. I had heard about it but wasn't particularly interested, now I am.

As a side note to Richard: I am behind on your thread and will try to get to it tomorrow, but I wanted to say that the tomato you recommended is gorgeous. I think I would have a huge head as a gardener if I could grow something as lovely as that. Thanks for the rec!

It's been kind of quiet around here, relatively speaking! I'll probably go see The King's Speech at the cinema next week with my dad. Don't go to the movies often and I look forward to that one. Just thought I'd let you know that I posted my reviews of Edgar Sawtelle and Neverwhere.

Like I mentioned on Jude's thread, when I come home from work, I expect mucho activity over here! What's going on? It snowed all day, light snow but still...

Lisa- I'm glad you liked "The King's Speech"! Looking forward to it. I like Colin Firth. I thought he was excellent in "The Single Man".
I also managed to snag a copy of "Black Swan". Hope I can also squeeze that one in.

Regina- Good to see you! Thanks for catching up! "Waiting For Superman" is excellent, just keep quiet about it!

Ilana- LT seems to be very quiet! Do people actually have something better to do? Hard to believe, if you ask me. Loved your reviews! Good job!

>209 msf59: vis a vis THE FIGHTER???
I remember you saying that you liked Homicide: Life on the Street.....well, Melissa Leo from said series..starred in said film....

????????????????

i'm outta here

Do people actually have something better to do? Hard to believe, if you ask me.

I know eh? Go figure, maybe they're actually reading books (for a change) or watching Oscar-nomitated movies maybe?

*waving* Hi Mark!

Jude- Yes, I'm a fan of Melissa Leo! I loved her in "Frozen River", my favorite female performance that year. Did you see that one? She was also terrific in the HBO series "Treme".

Ilana- "maybe they're actually reading books". Let's not get silly!

Joanne- Big wave back! Miss seeing you around!

Speaking of watching Oscar-nominated movies, I just finished "The King's Speech" and it was excellent. Like Lisa said, both Colin Firth & Geoffrey Rush were superb! I love the historical elements. It's also amazing how Guy Pearce keeps popping up in films and he's always so good!

I've seen 6 of the nominated movies - I can't remember the last time I saw more than one or two. Of course when there are 10(!) films nominated it's a lot easier to catch them. But for some reason, I haven't seen The King's Speech yet. Soon, soon! Glad you liked it! Colin Firth was interviewed on 60 Minutes last week. It was pretty interesting.

Let's not get silly!

It's a wonder we manage to get as many books read as we do considering all the time we spend socializing here. Imagine how many MORE books we'd read otherwise?! Obviously it wouldn't be quite as much fun though.

I'll be curious to hear what you have to say about Black Swan. I've heard some serious criticism about it, but a couple of gf's and I have already agreed to go see it at the cinema so we can get a good laugh when things start getting too ridiculous!

I wasn't here much yesterday.... busy with life..and a book.
I am not a movie person, and couldn't care less who wins what..
none of the current movies have appealed.

I know that you are off today! Hope it is a good one :)

Hi there Mark, from your read through a series friend!;) Finished Arctic Chill - a 4 star read -and just have one more in the series to read - Hypothermia by Arnaldur Indriason. However, I am undecided on just what I want to read next! I might need a break from my series!!!

I was reading your comments on Snowflower and The Secret Fan. I loved the book -but isn't it startling what the foot binding is really all about? I still recoil in horror from that.
Brrr - cold here today !!! 32 F or so - 0C to me! ;) Canadian, eh! And - of all things - we have snow!!!!Shocking for my part of the country - Vancouver.

Well, off to decide what suits my fancy reading wise.

And yes, I have Nesbo's book The Redbreast . I have even discovered yet another Icelandic series!!! ;)

Good morning everyone! I wanted to post this before I forgot. Last Spring we did a Group Read of Norwegian Wood. I just saw a trailer for the Japanese film, soon to be released. Right Here
Hope they don't blow it!

Joanne- I still need to finish "Black Swan" but the only one I haven't seen was "127 Hours". What did you think of "The Kids Are All Right"?

Ilana- Personally, LT doesn't interfere with my reading. When I want to read, I read. Hope to get plenty in today! I started "Black Swan". Creepy film.

Morning Kath- Yes, I noticed your absence yesterday. Hopefully, you were content doing whatever you were doing. Was it a good book?
I love films but books have elbowed them out, these past couple years. I don't watch much regular TV, so I catch up on films when I can. I think you would love "The King's Speech"! Wonderfully made movie!

Thanks for the preview for Norwegian Wood, Mark. How great to see a Murakami book made into a movie.

Deb- Yes, you blasted through that series! Good for you! I hope to get to Redbreast in the near future. It keeps getting bumped back. Keep warm up there! It does sound frigid!

Joe- I'm sure his books would be hard to adapt! I'm hoping they capture the tone. I need to get back to his books. I want to read The Wind-up Bird soon. I have several others waiting in the TBR!

Ah, The Wind-Up Bird Chronicles is terrific, Mark. You're in for quite a reading experience. I like all of his, but Kafka on the Shore is my other favorite.

What Joe said, Marky-Mark. ;-)

I loved the King's Speech. I'm glad you got to watch the movie. I do so hope Colin Firth and/or Geoffrey Rush win an award tonight for their stellar performances. Then again, these are 2 of my favorite actors.

Just catching up with your thread. So many great books!

Joe- Kafka on the Shore was my 1st Murakami and also my favorite! I NEED to get back to him.

Caro- I loved Rush's performance, but I would have to lean toward Christian Bale, as my favorite of the supporting actors. I think the supporting work in both categories, were better than the leading ones, (although Firth was great!) in my humble...
Have you seen any of the other films?

Ren- Thanks for stopping by! Comments always welcome!

I landed a few books this week from LT pals:
The Unnamed by Joshua Ferris
Panopticon by David Bajo
The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom
The Bells by Richard Harvell

Some nice titles. Aren't LT pals the absolute best?

Mark, The Kids Are Alright was a great movie. I hope you get a chance to see it and Annette Benning was great in it.

I loved The Windup Bird Chronicles but it was often hard to follow. I think my favorite Murakami was South of the Border, West of the Sun but those are the only two I've read.

I was one of those people who was on the Readathon and March TIOLI threads yesterday and not around otherwise.

I'll be finishing up Maus II today. I saw you gave it 5 stars recently. I haven't read a bad graphic novel yet. Your recommendations have all been superb.

Marky-Mark, I haven't watched 'The Fighter' yet and the only other nominated movies I've watched thus far have been 'The King's Speech', 'Black Swan', 'Social Network' and 'Toy Story 3'. I do want to watch 'The Fighter' soon since it was about a Massachusetts guy and they filmed it right in Lowell itself.

Pat- I saw "The Kids are All Right". It was terrific, probably my favorite film of the year. Loved the two female leads but Mark Ruffalo was great too! Have you seen any of the other films?
I'm so glad you are loving the graphic memoirs! I felt Maus II was even stronger than the first one. How about you?
Speaking of graphic memoirs, I'm well into Vietnamerica: A Family's Journey. It's another terrific story.

Caro- Yes, I highly recommend "The Fighter"! Very good film. Nice Boston feel! I'll let you know about "Black Swan", I started it last night.

Hi, Mark!
I still haven't read Maus. I have The Complete Maus just hanging out here ready to read, and my daughter tells me it is a must read. Maybe in March, I am thinking. Have a great day!
--BJ

Mark, I've seen 6 of the 10 nominated films: The Fighter, Social Network, The Kids are Alright, True Grit, Inception and The King's Speech. I liked them all but with True Grit I lost interest about halfway through. I think this is the first time in a long time I've seen so many of the nominated films so it'll be more fun to watch the Oscars tonight.

I've been on LT alot today so no reading yet today. Hopefully I'll be able to finish Maus II. I'm going to go check out Vietnamerica right now!

BJ- Please get to the Maus books! They are fantastic. This is a nice one to have in your collection.

Pat- I liked True Grit but I don't think it should have been nominated. I've been watching the Oscars, but I'm getting ready to retire for the night. I was very glad for both Christian Bale & Melissa Leo, (although she was very long-winded).
Sorry you didn't get much reading in!

Hi Mark!
I think I may have contributed a bit to the "quiet" around LT in the last few days - but when I see all I have to catch up on - it doesn't seem to have been so very quiet to me! :)
Your thread is getting almost too dangerous for me - so many good books.

I wish I could hide in your thread all day. No one would think to look for me here.. right?

We had thunderstorms last night! It rained quite a bit. Icy out there right now! Last day of February, does that mean Spring is inching closer?

Claudia- It sounds like you had a nice getaway and enjoyed your grandkids! How's Room coming?

Kath- Now why would you want to hide over here, with little old boring moi? I hope you have a good Monday, if that's humanly possible!

I finished and enjoyed The Name of the Wind. I started My Dead Body, by my guy Charlie Huston. It's the last of his vampire private eye series. I'll be wrapping up the audio of the Kingsolver today. It has given me much to chew on!

Hi Mark, we watched The Social Network the other night and loved it. It's the only Oscar nominee I've seen; don't watch too many movies. Maybe after I retire I will because I envision a lot of time to do "things." Hope I'm not one of those retirees who say 'I don't know how I had time to work.' Ha.

Hi Mark. I was thinking of you this morning because we're getting loads of rain/ice rain today and it's gonna be one heck of a mess pretty soon when it freezes up again. Watch out for those ice patches my friend!

Maybe the movie version of Norwegian Wood will help me make better sense of the book. I didn't think it was all that outstanding, but I understand that in Japan it is a sensation. I like to see movies produced in other countries and will certainly make an effort to see this one.

I watched the entire Academy Awards show last night. I started watching at 5:00 p.m. in order to see the red carpet show. I love looking at all the dresses. Some of them were such a hoot! And some were so beautiful. I thought the hostess, Anne Hathaway, could have stayed in one dress the entire evening. What was with the changing gowns all the time? I specifically watched for Helena Bonham Carter because she and Cher always have such outrageous costumes. What they wear can rarely be called dresses. It was great fun. I loved Cate Blanchett's dress. It was a work of art. Also thought that Scarlett Johannson had a wonderful dress.

Oh the movies? Well, Why would a remake of another movie get nominated for Best Picture? And the only one I saw was "The King's Speech." I guess I would rather read books.

I finished reading my first Furst book. Spies of the Balkans and liked it. I am sure that there will be more about that particular hero in a future Furst book. I read this one on my Nook, and immediately started Spies of Warsaw on the same device.

I am close to finishing Wave: In Pursuit of the Rogues and like it. I have to admit that I don't understand the surfers. They seem to be just thrill seeker and plan old adrenaline junkies. What I like is the science part of the book. Very scary.

I hear all of your complaints about the weather and want to add mine. It has gone directly from winter to summer down here. It is so hot and humid that it is impossible to sleep at night. It makes me want to turn on the AC. Which I refuse to do before the end of May.

I liked Name of the Wind very much. It was sprawling, but I liked that. It is a bit of a different take on the fantasy kind of thing. A real reluctant hero who is very cautious about messing around with the powers that be. Much different than most fantasy heroes. Can't wait to find out where he learned all that caution. Maybe the next book in the series will tell me why he is that way?

#238 No thunder up here, Mark. We had a lot of freezing rain and then a bit of snow.

Bonnie- I really enjoyed "The Social Network" too! As far as, watching or not watching films, I guess it's all about time and priority. Books still rule, but there is also nothing like watching a great movie.

Ilana- Thanks for thinking about me! It was cold but the sun came out and melted most of the ice. Just had to watch out for those shady spots!

Benita- Yes, now I recall you not liking Norwegian Wood as much. I liked it quite a bit and I'll be interested in seeing if they can pull off a film version.
I watched a nice chunk of the Oscars too, but bed-time was calling me and I missed the big awards. No surprises anyway. I don't care much about the dresses but do admire some of the bodies in them...ie Scarlett, among others.
Spies of Warsaw was my 1st Furst. I really enjoyed it. I have a few others by him in the stacks.

Big waves to Linda & Kara!!

Hi Mark, just passing through real quick. I've got a couple of books to finish before the end of the month! :-)

ETA: Oh yeah: HI!..... BYE! ;-)

I just opened the mail that came to my house today...
it was still sopping wet. I sure hope the mail carrier
dried out ~ I hope you are nice and dry.

Same problem here...
wet mail... wet deliverer (Ron)
It happens, right?
Have a dry day tomorrow, Mark! :)

Kath & Claudia- I was dry all day! The sun came out. It was chilly but not bad. Tomorrow is supposed to be in the mid-40s. That's great that you think about your mail-carriers, not everyone does!

Ilana- Good luck finishing your books tonight!

I finished the Kingsolver memoir. I loved it. Now to put some of those ideas to work.
I started the audio of Full Moon. It's the 2nd in a fantasy series (Chicago-based), about a wizard private eye. Fun stuff!
Donna's going to get mad, if I don't start getting serious, about my book selections. I promise, serious is coming.

Oh yes, Mark-who-snickers-on-my-thread...

Haven't read Animal, Vegetable, Miracle...because I have "gardening" issues, from childhood.....anyway, of her books The Poisonwood Bible is my favorite....High Tide in Tucson is a wonderful collection of essays

The Maus books are treasures...

Haven't read any of Jim Butcher's work...*dope slap to the head*

Back to Melissa Leo, please...I never saw FROZEN RIVER but have my Third Eye peeled...

The Oscars I did not see...no Network TV....BLACK SWAN looks good

I have stopped making sense

;-}

Hi Mark, I saw that....wizard private eye...lol. I must be getting soft because that does look like fun. And probably one that I won't have to add to my dream book. ;-)

Happy almost-March. Spring and a meet-up at your house is coming. Life is good!

My husband and I went to see True Grit today. I had been wanting to see it, and I quite liked it. The funny thing was that the theater was totally empty when we went in. Then four people came in after us and sat directly behind us and talked all the way through. The rest of the theater was totally empty. Funny, huh?
--BJ

>249 msf59:: Since you liked the Kingsolver, have you tried Pollan's The Omnivore's Dilemma? If not, you might like it.

I really enjoy the Dresden books. We're currently sitting on one of his rare cliffhangers between book #12 and book #13. *sigh*

>252 billiejean:: billiejean, it drives me insane when people do that!

I managed to finish them both! Now after two very serious reads, I'll segue into Mystery March starting with Dead Souls as have a bunch of Ian Rankins I promised to send out EONS ago! In other words... I'm reliable, as long as time isn't an issue. ;-)

BJ funny, not.

I would have explained to them how rude they were..
then moved. But then, I am not good in social situations..
smiling through it wouldn't work for me. :P

Am I missing a new thread Mark?

Jude- Yes, I've been known to snicker on threads. It's my nature. I loved The Poisonwood Bible too. It's been my only Kingsolver but I will get to all her books, eventually.
I'm sure you've heard, but Melissa Leo won best supporting actress and she not only talked incessantly, she dropped the dreaded F-bomb in her speech. See "Frozen River". Terrific movie. "Black Swan" was ultra creepy! Right up your alley.

Donna- My next book will be Hellhound on His Trail, the hunt for James Earl Ray. It's been on my next read list for months. I appreciate your "sunny" disposition. It's rare in these parts!

BJ- "True Grit" has been out for a couple months, so that's probably the reason for the low attendance. Wasn't the young actress terrific? I think she stole the film. People talking in the theater: horse-whipped!

Tad- Thanks for stopping by! Benita mentioned The Omnivore's Dilemma too! I've put it on the list. Sounds good. I'm listening to "Full Moon" and it's perfect narration, capturing Harry's voice.

Ilana- Glad you finished! See you over on the "Mystery March" thread!

Morning Kath- I'll start the New Thread tonight. It just came up on me fast. Nice day today. Sunny mid-40s. Have a good one!

I'm another one who has enjoyed the Harry Dresden series. It would be fun to hear it on audio. Good escapist reading.

I agree that the young actress (sorry that I can't recall her name) was amazing. I actually thought all of the acting was wonderful in that movie, but she was a standout.
--BJ

>206 msf59: WAAAAY up there: http://www.heirloomseeds.com/

Seedlings aren't common for heirloom plants, since most nurseries HATE them...not as disease resistant, more fussy, and the reason they're heirloom is that hybrids produce bigger/prettier/tougher plants. Sometimes though, more work is worth it to get a really amazing result. Like them Green Zebras!

Thanks for the link, Richard!
--BJ

Hi Mark! Sorry to leave you hanging about the MeetUp. I'd like to come, not yet sure if I can, but I will let you know. Hope the sun is shining on you today!--- Tammy

Mark, I've been planning to read Hellhound on His Trail but probably won't get to it til April. Other books keep popping up, but I'm still aiming to focus on baseball and mystery this month.

Btw, Mark, did you catch any of the short-lived Dresden Files television show? It wasn't as good as the books by any means but it wasn't totally bad either. The writers strike doomed it, though.

Mark

The thread cop is looking behind your shoulder.

I didn't realize that the TV show Dresden Files was based on books. Cool! I may have to try to find those shows on Netflix. Are these books graphic novels? For some reason I thought they were.

I am really enjoying Under Heaven and think I have found a new favorite author, but I have to put this book aside for awhile as I have to read a book for a discussion group at work. Fortunately its a good read, or at least it reads good. Death and Life of the Great American School System by Diane Ravitch. I have three weeks to finish this one and I have to read it cause with these guys they know if you haven't really read the book and try to fake it.

The TV Dresden files departed a good bit from the books, and that bothered some folks. Not us. We thought it was very entertaining, and were sorry it wasn't renewed. It's available on dvd.

The books aren't graphic novels, although Jim Butcher adapted the first one, Storm Front into a graphic novel, and did a second Dresden graphic novel called Welcome to the Jungle.

>266 benitastrnad: & 267: I also didn't mind the departures from the books. It kept them interesting.

Kay is great author. Under Heaven is very good but I don't think it's even his best, so you have many fun reads ahead of you!

Wow, lots of activity over here! I'm going to have the Thread Police, all over my behind!

Joe- The guy reading the Dresden Files books, James Martsen, I think, does a fantastic job. I plan on continuing the series in this format. How were the graphic ones?

Richard- Thanks for the link! I'll check it out later. How far did you get in the Dresden Files books? I know you read a few of them.

Tami- No problem! Hope you can make it. Let me know!

Tad- Thanks for mentioning the TV show. I'll give it a try. It won't spoil anything, from the books, right?

Both Lindas & Benita- Big waves!

I've been reading the See book (S&tSF) for about a year now. I read fantasy at a snap. The culture in that book is so foreign that it's like fantasy. But since it's not, I really want to absorb and understand what I can. Have to finish soon tho as we're moving and it's my neighbor's book.

Hi Mark!
Not quiet tonight! Glad you are liking Kingsolver books... me too!
Catch you in your new thread - when you get around to building it. :)

I am out of sync tonight. Duh! : New Thread

Susan- Are you reading a page a day? You are really stretching that one out. LOL!

Claudia- I forgot to post the link! See you over there!