Whisper1 (Linda) Thread#8

This is my favorite Van Gogh painting. It is located in NYC at the Metropolitan Art Museum. It is a paining of spring, of joy, of hope, of moving forward anew with first steps.

Am I really first??? I love this painting too.

Hope you have a wonderful and sunny weekend Linda!

Ha, that's the 2nd Van Gogh painting I've seen at the top of a thread over the last couple days (Mark has one too.) It's funny because I have a book on Van Gogh's art waiting to be read. :)

I don't ever remember seeing that painting by Van Gogh. I loved your description of it. Hope you're having a good weekend.

BOOK #61

Dear Mr. Henshaw by Beverly Cleary

In this 1984 Newbery Medal winner, second grade student Lee Botts is given the assignment of writing to his favorite author. He asks questions to Boyd Henshaw and in turn Mr. Henshaw asks questions to Lee.

Over the course of four years, as Lee and Mr. Henshaw communicate, Lee learns the power of writing and expressing feelings via words.

The sad, lonely, new kid on the block shares his feelings with Mr. Henshaw, and over the course of years, also writes in diary form. As he grapples with his parents divorce, acclimation to a new school and abandonment by his father, Cleary wisely allows us into the thoughts and feelings of a vulnerable young man.

While this isn't one of my favorite Newbery winners, it was a pleasant read.

BOOK#62

The Cricket in Times Square by George Selden

This 1961 Newbery Honor winner is delightful, charming, witty and funny. When Conneticut living Chester the cricket is inadvertently trapped in a picket basket and travels via train to the Times Square subway station in New York City, he meets up with a host of lively, lovely characters.

Late at night while young Mario Bellini is taking care of his family newsstand , he hears an unusual sound from a stack of papers. Rescuing Chester, he convinces his parents to allow him to keep Chester as a pet.

When subway-drain-living Tucker the mouse befriends the cricket, Tucker's humorous opera loving friend Harry the Cat joins the mayhem.

Together the cricket, mouse and cat help to rescue the financially troubled Bellini business by having Chester perform operatic concerts. Chester has an ear for music and his cricket chirps soon become exquisite sound.

The interplay between the critters is charming. While there isn't a lot of substance, still, I recommend this book for many reasons, including the wonderful illustrations by Garth Williams, the laugh out loud moments created by Tucker the mouse and Harry the cat, and the way in which the author captured New York City.

BOOK #63


Belle Prater's Boy by Ruth White

Insightful, poignant, touching and sensitively written, this 1997 Newbery honor book is one I highly recommend. With shades of Harper Lee's To Kill A Mockingbird, the reader observes small-town life through the eyes of a spunky, precocious young girl.

In 1953 Belle Prater left her house, her near-do-well husband and young son and vanished from Coal Station, VA, never to be found.

In 1954 Gypsy Arbutus Leemaster's view of life is about to change when she befriends her cousin Woodrow after he moves across the street to live with their grandparents. Years earlier Gypsy's father died, and she, like Woodrow knows the pain of loss.

As the story unfolds, we learn that Gypsy's mother was the pretty one; Woodrow's mother, Belle, was plain and could not compete when Gypsy's mother stole the heart of Belle's suitor and married him.

Cross-eyed and wearing hand me down clothes, Woodrow is Belle Prater's boy. Pretty like her mama, dressed in frills, Gypsy is about to learn that appearances are deceiving.

Lonely and abandoned Belle Prater's boy experiences snitty comments, not only at the hands of the town bully, but in particular by the small-town, nasty society mavens.

This is a story of multi-faceted layers, of looking past appearances, of sibling rivalry, of decisions that have a life-long impact and of small town life with its charm and chills.

Highly recommended.

Looks like you're making a lot of headway on those Newbery books. The Cricket in Times Square sounds like something I'd enjoy (with my great love of critters big and small, don't you know). I looked it up at the library, and the most recent copy of it they have is from 1969, which makes the book as old as I am! But at least they have a copy at all.

Wishing you well Linda. Happy new thread! :-)

I'm here in the new thread! :) Dear Mr. Henshaw was one of my favorites as a kid, although I don't know how it would hold up now.

What a beautiful painting to look at, on a rainy day. Which it has been doing here most of the day.

A lovely painting and three new reviews - you've been busy!

It sounds like this book sale invite has a lot of takers. The place could be filled with 75ers!!!

Have a Happy Mother's Day, Linda. I am unfamiliar with the Van Gogh painting but it is beautiful. Looks like you've gotten some quality reading time in, your Newberry Award reads all sound good, with Belle Prater's Boy really calling out to me.

I love that painting!

I remember reading Dear Mr. Henshaw with my son when he was in fourth grade and enjoying it. Love the Van Gogh Linda.

I remember liking Dear Mr. Henshaw and loving The Cricket in Times Square. I can't wait to read all these stories to my punk we he gets a little older!

I have also read Dear Mr. Henshaw and The Cricket in Times Square many, many years ago, but I haven't read Belle Prater's Boy and it sounds really intriguing.

I am adding both Dear Mr. Henshaw and Belle Prater's Boy to the BlackHole. I think I still have The Cricket in Times Square around my house somewhere - I really liked that one!

Hi Linda. Oh, how I love The Cricket in Times Square! I read it aloud several years ago, and I've been considering reading it aloud again. Love your Van Gogh!

Hi, Linda! Found your thread. Love the painting!

*waves*

Hello, I was just reading the review of the last book on your last thread, it sounds great, I love your comments. Oh, dear, let's hope the library has it as I cant be paying $35....(no huge book sales like you described coming up here!) I've been having a good run lately too- isn't it fun!

Hi Linda, just catching up, I love van Gogh so your painting is bringing up lovely memories for me. I'm also keen to make your local book sale next year although i may be a bit far away but I will try my best.

Ah, The Cricket in Times Square is one of my all-time, bestest books from when I was a kid.

About the Van Gogh—one of the things that I think is so sad about his paintings is that he used some paints where the pigments discolor after time (mostly to brown), especially the yellows. So, as the years go by, the vibrant color slowly fades. I read an article about the restoration and hopes for a reversal but they're not quite there, yet.

Happy Mother's Day, Linda!

I love the painting. Happy Mother's Day. I loved Belle Prater's Boy I actually purchased my copy in an antique store in Pennsylvania.

Happy Mother's Day, Linda! :)

Happy Mother's Day, Linda. I definitely need to look for The Cricket in Times Square. I've never heard of it before but it looks like I've been missing something.

Have a wonderful day, Linda. I love that VG painting too. I don't think I can safely say which of his works is my favorite. Every time I look at one, I think that's my favorite, and then I see another one, and change my mind. I guess I should just safely say he's one of my favorite artists and leave it at that.

Happy Mother's Day!

Happy Mother's Day, and continuing from the previous thread, you have absolutely convinced me with Floating in My Mother's Palm....it's exactly the kind of book I love. I downloaded the sample for my NOOK and look forward to hitting the buy button if it's as good as you say it is.

So far behind on threads!!

I'm just passing through to say hello! I've been out of the loop while housesitting for my mother, so I'm trying to get caught up on threads. I'm sorry to hear you had such a rainy time at Disney World! (Yes, that's how far behind on threads I am... but I'm trying to get caught up!) #hugs

Found and starred you! Thanks for your review of the Mr. Henshaw book. It brought back memories - I read that book in elementary school and had forgotten it until I saw your review. :)

I was wondering why there were no messages on your old thread and realized today that you started a new thread! I LOVE it when you start a new thread because I know that I am in for a treat for the eyes. I know NOTHING about art, but your threads are like mini-lessons for me. :)

New thread! Love the Van Gogh painting.

Hi there Linda! Just popping by your thread! I see you are reading Newberry Winners! Good for you -and enjoy! I read quite a few of them in my youth -and then to my two sons - now grown up. I loved the The Cricket in Times Square! So much fun! I read so many Beverly Clearly books in my younger days - but I'm not sure about Dear Mr. Henshaw though. I really loved The Giver by Lois Lowry which I read to my sons. I think that won a Newberry award.

Currently I'm reading an Orange Prize shortlisted book - Memory of Love by Aminatta Forna.

And yes - I"ve got RedBreast by Jo Nesbo in my TBR pile!!!

The Sugar Queen by Sarah Addison Allen

This book is a delectable delight! It is sweet, but not syrupy, sunny but not sunburn rendering!

The lovely host of characters are charming, but not sickeningly stomach-ache producing.

Strong and vulnerable women learn that life is not a bowl of cherries and sugar daddies are not necessary for fulfillment.

Chubby, food obsessed Josey Cirrini has a closet of hidden treats. She hides twinkies, gum balls and all sorts of goodies. As an only child whose deceased father was the hero of the town, she is left with memories and a very intense, overwhelmingly domineering mother.

Her life dramatically changes when she finds the town
bad girl hidden in her closet. Hiding from her near do well boyfriend, Delta Lee, camps out in Josey's space and in the process becomes a fairy God like figure prompting Josey to come out of her shell, break the bonds of her mother and embrace non-food delights!

As Delta Lee encourages Josey to act on her feelings toward the mail man, Josey begins a wonderful journey and in the process discovers long-hidden secrets regarding her father and her mother.

Woven in the mix is Chloe, a broken hearted waitress who befriends Josey.

As the story unfolds the three women learn their strengths and vulnerabilities.

I like this book! Sarah Addison Allen weaves magical images that remain with the reader long after the last page is turned.

Highly Recommended!

OOOOO....

I have The Sugar Queen as a possible book for next month. I think it might just have moved up to definitely!

I'm behind on a lot of the threads as I've been away but noticed this newish one of yours. I really enjoy reading your Newbery reviews as you seem to unearth some treasures along with a few more dated reads - always interesting anyway. If you ever feel like tackling children's books from other cultures you might like to look at the Batchelder Award winners for best children's books in translation. There's a list of past winners and shortlists here.
I need to read a few more from the 1001 book. I've also made a mental note to track down A Cricket in Times Square.

Ya know....I started The Sugar Queen a couple years ago, and just couldn't relate.. Your review has encouraged me to give it another look.

What a nice review, Linda. I've got The Sugar Queen in my TBR Tower. I think I should move it up a rung or two now.

Nice review of The Sugar Queen, Linda!

Great review, another one to add to my lengthening list.

I added The Sugar Queen to myTBR pile and thanks for the recommendation of Marcelo in the Real World it was wonderful.

I have been wanting to read The Sugar Queen for awhile now. I have even checked it out from the library, but not gotten around to it. Your review has re-inspired me to read this book.

I was introduced to Sarah Addison Allen last year and I quickly devoured both Garden Spells and The Sugar Queen, loved them both. I must remember to track down more of this delightful author's books!

I think i'll be adding The Sugar Queen Linda. Hope you have a great day.

I'm glad you enjoyed The Sugar Queen, Linda. I tried to read it last year and just was not a fan.

I went to put The Sugar Queen on my wishlist and found it already there.......at least that's one dodged.....kind of??

Dodged a Book Bullet this time, as I already own Sugar Queen and Garden Spells - whew! But don't worry - I got hit with another one over on Victoria's thread, so it evens out.

Hope you're having a nice evening, Linda!

Just stopping by to say Hi! I'm a bit behind on threads!

I'm so glad you enjoyed The Sugar Queen as much as I did! Thanks for the thumb Linda. :)

Garden Spells was a delightful book . . . I'm adding The Sugar Queen to my list and will try to remember to suggest it to the friend who recommended and loved Garden Spells.

Just stopping by to say hello, Linda!

Hi Linda! I love the Van Gogh painting, I'd never seen it before and as you wrote it's so life-affirming and positive.
The Sugar Queen goes onto the wishlist.

Missed your transition while I was on the road, but have found you now!

I really liked The Sugar Queen too. Glad to see you enjoyed it!

Thanks to all who visit here. Please forgive the fact that I'm not individually responding to each post.

I'm out of sorts today. It has been a tough year physically and emotionally. Recovering from neck fusion surgery, then heart ablation, returning to a mound of work, recently learning that the excellent assistant I hired last year will be leaving to move with her boyfriend to upstate NY -- I'll have to find the energy to interview and train a replacement--, end of semester stress and now last week while gardening, I simply stood up, turned and wham, my old back problem returned with a vengeance and lower back nerves are pinched. I spent a lot of time today with doctors and in the hospital for an xray. My insurance won't pay for an MRI until I go through physical therapy for two weeks, then it is my hope that I'll have three procedures of cortisone injections -- this worked in the past. Strong medications help but leave me sleepy and groggy.

Signed, the whiner who believes tomorrow will be a better day.

BOOK #65


Kingdom Keepers by Ridley Pearson

If you like Disneyworld, chances are you might enjoy this quick, delightful read of five youngsters who are given a unique opportunity to have their physical bodies become holograms. Soon the reality and fantasy mesh as they learn the dark side of Disney at night when the Pirates become real swashbucklers, the small world dolls escape from their platforms and evil mayhem abounds as the evil witch Maleficent reigns supreme.

It was a light, breezy read. At times I was frustrated because the plot was very scattered and the text not well written. But, I did enjoy the creativity.

Guardedly recommended.

Oh, Linda! I am sooo sorry this has happened to you. :{
You sure don't need this terrible setback! I have never considered you a whiner! I don't know how you keep your spirit up as well as you do. I hope your recovery is swift and sure...

You will be in my thoughts and prayers ...

Dang it, Linda, I'm so sorry to hear this...

Never hesitate to let us know how you are feeling. I'll be thinking about you.

Take it easy,Read lots and get better soon.

Sorry about your difficult year and now this setback. I will pray for your recovery and hope things improve soon.

I agree with you about Kingdom Keepers. I love Disney World and I liked the storyline, but it did get off-track from time to time, and some plot elements just seemed to drop out of sight.

I'm so sorry to hear about all your recent troubles with your help and work Linda! I wish we were living in the same city because working as your assistant sounds like a excellent job. :) Hope things look up for you soon and try not to be too stressed about it all...life has a way of working out the kinks in its own time.

I read Kingdom Keepers too and agree with you. The premise of the story was great, but there were a lot of loopholes with the plot.

Good luck with your back pain - that is the worst. I just had PT for sciatica and the therapist left a bruise on my back! I went in being able to walk and left in more pain then when I got there. She said I would feel a little sore - but I don't think she literally meant bruised! I hope you have a better experience.

Linda- Sorry to hear about the downturn! I hope it's short-lived. Sending you positive vibes, along with a big (but gentle) hug!!

Linda, I also really hope for your sake that things get better for you, and soon. And if gentle hugs are any help, then I send one your way too, but otherwise, know I'm thinking of you and wishing you well. xx

Linda, that's so frustrating about the back pain! I hope the PT turns out to be helpful and you can get the cortisone injections soon. Sending healing and relaxing thoughts your way.

I'm so sorry to hear about the setbacks. Hugs and best wishes!

So sorry to hear about your back pains, Linda, hope the therapy and injections do their work.

Really sorry your back pain has returned. I hope the physical therapy can help a bit - 2 weeks is ages.

Oh, Linda, I'm sorry! I, too, hope that tomorrow is a better day. Take care of yourself.

Giving a pass to Kingdom Keepers.

I hope the back troubles clear up soon!

Linda, so sorry to hear about your back troubles after everything else you've been through this year. Hope the physical therapy helps.

Poor Linda! I hope you feel better soon.

Linda I don't consider that a whine at all. Sorry you are having such a bad time and hope you feel better soon.

Oh Linda! I hope you feel better soon! Back problems are the worst! Hang in there. I hope the PT helps. Read lots!

I'm sorry to hear about your setback, Linda. I hope that it's only temporary, and that you're back on your feet soon.

Linda,
I can definitely sympathize with back pain....getting ready to start a series of epidurals next week for mine. Hoping PT works for you but remember, PT stands for Pain and Torture so you know what to look forward too!

Popping in to say hello - caught up with you - finally. Pant, pant. I've been marking some of your Russian books TBR.

Take care of yourself. Hope you're up and about soon.

Hi, Linda. Just joining in with all your other LT friends and well-wishers to send my warm hopes of a near future with your pain controlled or gone. If all these friendly thoughts were medicine, you'd be there already!

Thanks for your kind wishes everyone! It makes a difference. Today is indeed a better day. The muscle relaxant and anti inflamatory drugs are helping. Cheli, I've had three epidurals then years ago and I can tell you that I've been pain free for ten years. This recent incident is the first since the injections.

Please keep me posted regarding your success!

-------------------

I'm currently reading Mrs. Somebody, Mrs. Somebody and it is quite good.

Sorry about the back debacle...amazing how next-to-nothing can cause a whole disarrangment, isn't it? I'm glad today is better, and hope it all goes away quickly. I really enjoyed Mrs. Somebody, Somebody; I'm glad you do too.

Best wishes to you, Linda, that you will soon be pain-free again!

Glad to hear today was better, and may things keep heading in that direction. xx

Sorry to hear about this latest distress. I hope the PT and other stuff solve this for at least another 10 years.

Oh Linda, just catching up on threads and read about your back pains. Because I understand how horrible pinched nerves can be, I really hope this clears quickly, you are too great to have to deal with something like this. Good to hear that you had a better day. Sending you lots of good vibes to relax that back and release those nerves.

Glad to hear you're feeling a bit better, Linda, and that you're enjoying Mrs Somebody Somebody. I thought it was a good read.

So sorry to hear about the pain on top of the already tiring year. Funny how one simple move does it, wouldn't it be nice to undo those few seconds.
Glad you are feeling better with the pain management efforts, and hope healing is quickly progress.

So sorry to read about the new problems with your back. I hope those drugs will continue to work and you'll soon be pain-free again!

I'm so sorry about youre back pain and add my best wishes that it ends quickly. I've had a couple of bouts of that and know how debilitating it can be.

I love your Van Gogh--but then I enjoy all things Van Gogh--even the Dr Who episode with Van Gogh is one of my favorites.....

I love the Van Gogh too :)
Sorry that you are once again in pain :(

I lost you for a bit.. but now that I have found you..
hello!

Also, I posted some book info in my thread, with you in mind. I thought you might like the books mentioned.. ( maybe not the "Never" books.. but they were fun.. ). I liked them.. have read all of her books. They are not YA, but they are light and sweet and still have some .. well go and take a peek.. no pressure.. ( also, now that I think of it, I think that you may not have an e-reader?)

wow.. what a lot of blah blah blah .. sorry..
hugs

I'm glad to hear you are getting some relief.

Thanks to all for the kind messages. I think this latest physical ailment was the straw that broke the camel's back and my usual chipper self had a small melt down. Some good will come of it I'm sure. My body is aging and I simply need to accept that fact.

I very much appreciate the loving support of this group!

Now, on to books:



Mrs. Somebody Somebody by Tracy Winn

Many thanks to Linda (Laytonwoman3rd) for recommending this one back in March of 2010. I tremendously enjoyed this book!

This is a series of short stories about the troubled factory town of Lowell, Mass. In pre-union days the worker was grossly misused. There were long hours under terrible working conditions. Desperate for jobs, the poor of Lowell had no option other than to work in a grueling, body and mind numbing environment. Forming a union meant the loss of a job and/or a beating at the hands of goons hired by the owner.

Each short story is connected from the first chapter when we met Stella, an employee of the Hub Hosiery mill. She is a spunky determined woman who simply dreams of finding and marrying a man to support her, ie to be Mrs. Somebody, Somebody.

The following chapters unfold as the author develops the characters who inhabit the town of Lowell, beginning in 1947 - current. We learn of the workers, the owners and their children.

The chapters contain well written tales of the rich and the poor as they struggle with their hopes, dreams and their demons.

The characters are wonderfully developed and the book is very well written.

Highly recommended.

Land of Milk and Honey by William Taylor

On the tbr pile since August of 2010, I thank avatiakh for recommending this one. At that time I was reading a lot about The Kindertransport, and Kerry posted that during WWII many children were also sent to New Zealand.

Approximately 750 children from war-torn Britain were sent to New Zealand. History shows many of these children suffered like Jake Neill.

This is a disturbing book regarding Jake's treatment at the hands of the Pearson family who used him like a slave, beat him and verbally and physically abused him. In particular he suffered an almost fatal beating at the hands of the sadist farmer owners son.

It was difficult to read this book, but it was very well written and compelling. It is worth the read because it is a tale of human courage, determination and the ability to survive despite incredible odds.

Recommended.

The Sugar Queen seems like it would be a great read. I'm going to add it to my wishlist. Thanks for the review =)

Trying to catch up on threads . Picked up Tsar: the Lost World of Nicholas and Alexandra from the library. Thanks for all the good Russian book suggestions. Sorry your back went out. I'm facing my second hip surgery in a year and a half next month and sympathize with bone/join pain. I start my pre-surgery PT tomorrow. I'll be thinking of you!

Popping in to say hello, Linda. I hope you manage to find a new assistant when the time comes, who's quick to pick up all that your current admin does, and who will be a great help to you.

I liked your review of Land of Milk and Honey. I've put this on my obese wish list. I didn't know that children were also sent to New Zealand. I thought they were only sent to Australia.

Hi, I have been away so I am just catching up. Sorry to hear about your back pain. I also suffer from back pain and it isn't fun especially when there is gardening to do.

I wanted to thank you for the books you sent, they arrived just before we left for a weekend camping trip.. We recently purchased a new(used) camper and I forgot to pack any newspapers to start a fire. I didn't discover this till late that evening when the kids wanted a fire to toast marshmallows. Well lo and behold the only thing I could find that was paper like to burn was the envelope that you had sent with the books. I tore it into tiny pieces and in no time we had a nice fire. So I guess I owe you a double thanks, for the books and the nice campfire.

#95. Hi Alaina and welcome to LT and the 75 challenge group. I checked your home page and discovered you joined in January 2011. This is an amazing group and I trust you will feel welcomed. I know your to be read pile will expand incredibly.

#96. Hi Lisa. I hope you enjoy Tsar: The Lost World of Nicholas and Alexandra. I liked it so much that I purchased a copy. Sorry you are facing a second hip surgery next month. Knowing what to expect is a mixed bag, ie, you know the procedure and recovery and then again, you know the pain involved.

Please know I'll be thinking of you and hope that you keep us in the loop re. the procedure and recovery. As you know, we are a very caring group. If you would like, I'll take responsibility in letting the group know how you are. Simply be sure to have a family member send an email to me at lcl1@lehigh.edu letting me know your status and I'll be sure to pass the info. along to our group

#97..Hi there! Please check your home page for a message I left.

#98. Hi Bette. I'm on a quest to give away books after I've read them. I'm happy to share. I enjoy camping. We don't have a camper, but have friends who do and we so enjoy sitting around the fire, playing games, laughing and enjoying the outside environment. I love the story of lighting the fire with the envelope.

Thanks, Linda, I appreciate your warm wishes, and hope that you too will keep us posted on your next steps. Hopefully PT will fly by and you'll get your MRI soon. Not that lying in a tube for an hour without moving is any fun. Especially when you are hurting. But hopefully the knowledge from the results will get you started on the road to less pain. Take care

Hi Linda - you are right about Land of Milk and honey being a tough read, but definitely a worthwhile one. It was quite controversial when published here due to the cruelty in the book and some felt it wasn't appropriate for the YA market. But this cruelty was done to children.
Anyway I hope you are feeling better now.

#97 - Caroline - Home children were sent to Canada, Australia, Zimbabwe and New Zealand. I've collected a few children's novels about homechildren set in Canada but haven't managed to read them yet. Flower is one that looks good.

Kerry, Can you recommend other books regarding this subject?

I've added Flower to the tbr pile.

Thanks for the recommendations -- I think -- my tbr pile is always ever expanding from your recommendations.

I was bothered by Land of Milk and Honey. The violence to animals and to Jake was disturbing, yet I finished the book and I'm glad I did. Thanks again for telling me about the book.

The cover does state that the book is "a compelling read for mature young adult readers."

Linda - you are ever so kind! I did make my comments on The Memory of Love by Aminatta Forna into a review, as you so kindly suggested to me. I'm always intimated by others wonderful reviews.

As far as the Karin Fossum books go - I've only read one , and it was number 8 or something in the series, so I don't think it matters to much what order that you read them in , unlike some series. That said - I've ordered the first in the series ....;) just in case!

Land of Milk and Honey sounds fascinating! Like Caro, I did not know that children were sent to Australia. In fact, I knew that they were sent to Canada - before my time. I suppose British children may have been sent to various places within the Commonwealth.
Sorry - touchstones touchy!

I know that is the wrong link to Land of Milk and Honey but touchstones are being silly!

Thumbs up for your review....

You might want to check with my partner about the ever so kind statement. He lives with me and knows full well I have a dark side.

Great to know the Karin Fossum books can be read out of order.

Regarding intimidation by other wonderful reviews, your comments are excellently written! I find that writing reviews helps me capture what I did or did not like about a book. Thumbs up from me on your review.
If you are interested in learning more about children sent to England during WWII, I highly recommend the following:

Into the Arms of Strangers by Mark Jonathan Harris and Kindertransport by Olga Levy Drucker

Books on my tbr list that I haven't read yet are:

The Tiger in the Attic by Edith Milton
Ten Thousand Children by Anne Fox

The Children of Willesden Lane by Mona Golabek

In addition, there is an excellent movie that I highly recommend:

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0248912/

Just keeping up ~ Some good books here Linda !

Hi Kath

Are you having a good day?

I have both Garden Spells and The Sugar Queen by Sarah Addison Allen at home to read. I should probably get around to those sooner than later!

I read The Kingdom Keepers when it first came out, but I didn't find it compelling enough to carry on to the rest of the books when they were released. It wasn't bad, but it really was only good enough for a one-off read.

Hanging in.. how about you? I left you some info on your FB wall :)

ABC Bunny by Wanda Gag

Oh my, but Newbery awards have come a long, long way since 1934! I'm not counting this as one of my reads - it is a silly book, too small to record.

I question why this won a Newbery.

I only paid .10 for this book a long time ago -- thank God!
The only reason I read it was because of my quest to read all Newbery books.

David, I think you will like both of Sarah Addison Allen's books.

And, I agree regarding The Kingdom Keepers!

Thanks Kath!

I lost you for awhile, Linda, but I've caught up again.

Linda, I'll probably steer clear of the Bunny book but I've noted a few recommendations in the other posts and the movie you mentioned looks especially good so I'm going to see if my DVD shop has a copy of that one - thanks.

Glad to see that you're getting some reading and reviewing done as your back is mending! :)

I will be reading the ABC Bunny sometime in my quest also, I read a review of it and I can see why you are wondering why it won a Newbery. The early Newbery winners are way different then they are today.

*stops in for a wave* Hope you're feeling good today, Linda.

Hi Linda, I enjoy your reviews as always. You and Kerry are always dangerous for me—I just keep getting riddled with book bullets, so that I'm always happy when I manage to walk away untouched. Hope your back is doing what it should and not giving your any grief today.

Hi Linda - clarifying my remark in #101 about the cruelty to children, I meant that it did happen in real life.
The only other book I've read lately was Michael Morpurgo's Alone on a wide wide sea which is in two parts - firstly about a boy sent to Australia and then about his granddaughter. Like anything by Morpurgo it is a very good read.
The nonfiction I read on this subject was just horrifying, those homechildren sent to Canada really suffered because they had to work outside for long hours during the severe winter weather. The farmers did not clothe or feed them in any way appropriate for the conditions.

Adding Land of Milk and Honey to the BlackHole. Thanks for the review and recommendation, Linda!

Linda, so sorry to hear that you are facing another medical problem. Hope it is resolved sooner rather than later. I recently had my lower back injected again and it took much longer to respond than in the past so I hope it isn't wearing off on me. They usually keep me going for a year or so.

I have Mrs. Somebody Somebody on my shelf and hope to get to it this year.

Our Only May Amelia by Jennifer L. Holm

Jennifer Holm is a well-deserved three-time Newbery Honor award recipient. She received her first award in 2000 for the outstanding book Our Only May Amelia.

I know I've read a good book when I learned about history or events previously unknown to me.

This gem was chock full of facts of the Pacific Northwest in the late 1800's. The Nasel river is the setting of this lush, descriptive and endearing tale of May Amelia Jackson, the first girl born to immigrant parents in the Nasel river valley community.

The author was inspired to write this book when she found the dairy of her Great Aunt Alice Amelia Holm, who lived in the Nasel Valley in the late 1800's.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naselle_River

A twelve year old child with seven brothers, Amelia May is quite a tom boy. While she loves her brother, she longs for a sister. While this fact is the springboard for the story, the primary emphasis is the surrounding environment and life of the Finish immigrants who settled in this lumber rich area in the state of Washington.

This is a story of love and loss, friendship and family and rugged living in a community of caring individuals who pave the way for future generations.

The Chinook Indians were the original settlers of the area and the author provides much detail of the tribe and their willingness to live peacefully with the Swedish, Norwegian and Finnish settlers.

http://www.chinookindian.com/




Rich in heritage and historical detail, the author weaves the community of Astoria, Oregon into the story and the reader learns of Chinese immigrants who work in the canning factories, the hub bub of what was considered a rich sailing, trading village and the "city" life.


This is a wonderful book and I highly recommend it!

Wow, that last photo is so compelling, it reeks of a fascinating story....

Wow! Excellent review and I also love it when a book teaches you about a new place in history or the world.

Sounds wonderful, Linda !

Linda- Our Only May Amelia sounds very good. Great job on the review. I'll have to add that one to the List. Nice photos too!

I am also adding Our Only May Amelia to my wishlist. I have visited the Astoria area quite often over the years, it is a beautiful setting on the Pacific Ocean, at the mouth of the Colombia River. It will be interesting to read some of the history of this unique area.

Linda, another wonderful review! I'm adding that one to my list.

Missed the bullet, listened to Our Only May Amelia with my daughter last year. Loved it too!

Great review of a great book! I read it about 10 years ago and I think I need a repeat. Maybe my daughter would like it if I read it to her.

Thanks for all of the suggestions re children moved from England during WW11. I'll have to look into them - thanks again for the suggestions!

So sorry for all of the pain and health issues you've been facing. I had not realized until I read through your thread. Take it easy -hugs.

Great review Linda! Thanks for putting the extra effort in adding those pictures as well. :)

Whew! Caught up. I'm sorry to hear about your latest health woes. I can only hope that you get relief from the PT. Backs are so tricky...and bothersome. I can work in the garden for up to two hours without back pain (if I'm lucky), but sometimes I can just turn too quickly and *there it goes* again. So discouraging.

As always, I love your reviews, Linda. I appreciate how you add the "extras" that add so much.

Well, I went to add Our only May Amelia to the BlackHole only to discover that it was already there! I guess I really should get to it!

Hi Linda!
Nice review...I'm going to the library today and will look for this one. Just finished a book about the Pacific Northwest (In Earshot of Water - LTER book) and wouldn't mind knowing more about that region.
Hope you are feeling better.

Just stopping by to say Hi, and I hope you will be feeling better soon, Linda!

Well, just dropping in to let you know that I survived the first shot yesterday. (You can read the whole funny story on my regular blog at Cheli's Cozy Corner). So far, the pain would usually be about an 8 out of 10, but this morning, I'm at a about a 4! The doctor said the first shot might not do it, so I go back in 2 weeks for the next one. Any relief is welcome. How are you feeling?

Linda, I'm always blown away by your insightful reviews. I don't know how you manage through your pain to do such thoughtful postings, but count me an appreciative reader.

Cyderry, I tried to post at your Cozy Corner, but my office machine is a little overprotective. However, I did read your entry.

I don't mind the repetitive questions. During a procedure last year, I was asked about allergies three different times, and when I groaned the third time the nurse said - "see, the resident didn't write it down! That's why we ask again." Cross-checks are fine with me - the more accuracy the better, even if it is annoying.

Just stopping by to say hello, Linda.

#120 I am very happy about your quest to read all the Newbery books as I benefit greatly from it by reading your reviews! This is one I had not heard of, or if I had, did not pay much attention to. Not having visited the Northwest, I feel less informed about the area than others, so this novel might be a good one for me.

Hello to all and thanks for stopping by!

I very much appreicate the encouragement regarding my quest to read all the Newbery award winning books.

I recently was at a work related function/dinner where books were discussed. A person at the table rolled their eyes when I mentioned the beauty of the Newbery's, specifically The Graveyard Book, The Giver, Kira-Kira, Missing May, Belle Prater's Boy, The Wednesday Wars, Hope Was Here, Because of Winn Dixie, Elijah of Buxton, Feathers, Getting Near To Baby, The Higher Power of Lucky, The Hundred Dresses, Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boys, My Side of the Mountain, Number the Stars, Out of the Dust, Pictures of Hollis Woods, Turtle in Paradise, The Watsons Go To Birmingham, A View From Saturday, and Where the Mountain Meets the Moon.

I'm a very tolerant person, open to the opinions of others, but I really detest and cannot abide intellectuant snobbery. For me, there is no good reason to justify this behaviour.

I simply smiled and told the person they really did not know what they were missing. The same condesending person went on to give a dig at a co-worker who austuely mentioned that he was reading a book regarding the connection between math and music.

----------

Cheli, I know from experience that it takes a few days for the injection site to heal, and usually the first shot does not do the trick. I hope you are having a pain free day.

Hi Linda, another great review. I wonder why someone would feel the need to be condescending about the books you mentioned? It's got to be ignorance.

An Acquaintance With Darkness by Ann Rinaldi

Many thanks to countrylife for recently recommending this very interesting book.

I've read a number of Ann Rinaldi's books, some are good, others fall flat. This one is worth the time and effort spent reading.

Using the backdrop of Washington, DC at the turbulent time of the end of the Civil war, Rinaldi takes us through the streets of a city in turmoil as the country is reeling with the aftermath of a nation torn apart.

Slaves who were freed now have no where to go. Expecting President "Linkum" to find homes for them, they sadly seek shelter and food to no avail.

Widows with no source of income are pressed to take in boarders. Soldiers returning home to the North after the war suffer from disease, loss of limbs and the stress of combat fatigue.

We learn of life in Washington, DC 1865 from the point of view of fourteen year old Emily Pigbush who lost her father in the war and her mother to "the wasting disease".

Upon her death bed her mother forbid Emily to live with her Uncle Valentine, a prominent physician and teacher. Instead, Emily was slated to live at the home of her friend Annie Surrat, daughter of Mary Surrat.

Weaving a cast of characters including John Wilkes Booth, Dr. Mudd, General Custer and the Surrats, Rinaldi provides accurate historical detail regarding the assignation of President Lincoln and the effects of a city and nation in tremendous grief.

John Wilkes Booth was known to visit the home of Mary Surrat and thus she was implicated with seven others.

History shows that on the afternoon of Lincoln's assignation, Booth went to Mary Surratt's boarding house in Washington, D.C. It was discovered that guns and ammunition were stored there.

Of the eight alleged conspirators, she was the only woman. She was found guilty and hanged. She has the historical notoriety of being the first woman executed by the United States government.

Mary Surrat's boarding house:

Mary Surrat:


While the title and cover of the book leads the reader to believe this is a ghost story, in fact, the sub plot of the book is an excellent depiction of Ann's Uncle, who for the sake of learning new medical techniques in order to help wounded and those afflicted with disease, works with a few others to rob graves or attain bodies. These are the times before legal autopsies and the moral/ethical procurement of bodies is balanced by the need for knowledge.

Recommended.

Mary Surrat's boarding house today - "Wok and Roll Restaurant," they do have good egg rolls.

Hi Mike! Thanks for the photo of Mary Surrat's boarding hosue today! Nice to hear from you!

>142 Whisper1:: Linda, I'm adding An Acquaintance with Darkness to my WL of Civil War books. I'm glad the sesquicentennial technically will go on for the next four years because it may take me that long to finish all the books I'm lining up! Thanks for the picture of Mary Surrat's house.

>143 sgtbigg:: And glad to see that Mary's house is still standing. I'll keep that in mind about the egg rolls next time I'm in that area. ;-)

I read a lot of Ann Rinaldi as a teenager, but I haven't revisited any of them since. I'll have to investigate if I even still own them.

I recall Hang a Thousand Trees with Ribbons being one of my favourites.

#140 I make it a point to never sit in judgement of another person's reading choices. They are highly personal and frequently meet some need, desire, or situation that a person is experiencing at a particular time. Books have helped me get through some of the most challenging times in my life....and those that did vary greatly in everyway.

I did take part in a discussion once in which a person argued against Newbery books, stating that they are books more for adults, chosen by adults, and not what children like or want to read. My argument was that children can read a variety of literature, but that their reading should include some high quality literature with important themes and meaningful messages. That is certainly why I read them!

Another great review Linda, as always. Ann Rinaldi is one I've read before and enjoyed but now I discover how prolific she is, I've got a bit of catching up to do.

And I cringed when I read about your encounter with the book snob, someone with such a narrow view of the literary world could barely be called a book lover. ((shivers))

Well, An Acquaintance with Darkness is going on my library list.
#140 The mention of math and music. My SO taught a class The Physics of Music.

Boo to the book snob, but Yay to the wonderful review! :)

Fascinating! An Acquaintance with Darkness went straight to my wishlist. Thanks for the great review, and the photos are very interesting. It is surprising how little the boarding house has changed over the years.

Adding An Acquaintance with Darkness to the BlackHole.

Down with book snobbery!!

I love the way you augment your reviews with photos--so interesting! And I never stopped reading children's literature and don't plan to.

As I try to get caught up with threads I am dismayed to see how much I have missed. I hope your back is improving! Many gentle hugs for you .

Adding AAwD to the neverending wishlist.

I distinctly remember reading books with that Newbery medal on the cover, and feeling that I was getting something special...Johnny Tremain, Strawberry Girl (and all of Lois Lenski's books---she was one of my favorite authors as a child), Onion John, The Witch of Blackbird Pond...book snobs should be frozen out of the conversation with just such a comment as "You don't know what you're missing". Good for you, Linda.

Nice photos and nice review!

Music and math eh? sigh.. well, fine.. you are doing it right for you
( and me for me ) by reading what you enjoy, not reading to impress..
Who knows, maybe they like reading music and numbers etc, but ..
I prefer your approach.. and would rather sit near you at dinner..
( or lunch or snack or ?)

hugs

>155 laytonwoman3rd:: agree with Linda's comments Linda ... a pox on the book snob.

Dropping by to say hello because through a chain of links (a) I noticed that you're in Bethlehem (I'm in Lancaster), and (b) your Newbery project interests me. Re the book snob in 140, the most engaged people I know have brought into their adult lives what was "play" for their 11 year old selves, and have never placed a wall in between.

I feel sorry for book snobs. Because a) it's true they don't know what they're missing b) something tells me they musn't enjoy reading all that much c) they care too much about what the wrong kind of people must think of them, which leads to... d) they must be insecure at heart.

Hi Linda! :-)

#159 I agree with all of that---especially the insecurity part. I think that's true in general of people who routinely criticize and belittle others, about books or anything else.

>158 qebo:: qebo, it's a Pennsylvania reunion on this thread! I'm SE of Lancaster near Oxford, and laytonwoman3rd is near Scranton.

#158 & 161 - I'm in SE Pa too! Westtown, PA - just outside of West Chester!

Edited to change direction, clearly LT + 4 pints of beer do not mix so well.

Book snobs never come to my thread ... I guess they know they won't find anything worthy of their attention there. ;-)

#160 Linda: much agreed about the "in general" comment.

Okay, Linda,
I listened to you for Amelia's War and loved it, so An Acquaintance with Darkness gets a nod too. I'll have to track down a copy.

Okay, people, I'm going to be in Millersville this October, so it sounds like we simply MUST have a meetup!!

I am in Pa, and don't think I have ever heard of Millersville.. I don't travel much.. :P

166,167: I could walk to Millersville.

Sorry it's been a little while since I've checked in...
Boo Hiss to back pain and book snobs! They are not welcome visitors.
Hope your back continues to mend, even if slowly...

Great review of An Acquaintance with Darkness. It's going on the list.

I roll my eyes in the general direction of the book snob.

ok, then Millersville or somewhere nearby will be perfect for an October meet up!

Darn, Millersville could be a bit too far for me to come by myself...better hope it's not a day that hubbie is at the football game. We shall have to see.

Millersville is like a suburb of Lancaster, right? It doesn't have to be the site of the meetup, just that I will be visiting a friend there, and it's a lot closer than San Diego! There may be some central location that is better.

How about Intercourse?
(snort - I just had to say it)

I will watch the plans with interest... who knows, maybe one day I will manage a meet up.

:)

Hi Linda--just catching up on your thread. I hope you are feeling better by now, even though it looks like they won't allow you to have the treatment you know works until you've jumped through a few hoops.

I love the Van Gogh on the top of your thread. That's one I've never seen before, even though I've visited the Metropolitan several times. (So far I've usually stayed in the ancient art sections, since that's where I've been in my art history study group.)

I'm also enjoying your journey through the Newberrys. I recognize so many of them I read with my children with fond memories.

Feel better soon!

Very nice review of An Acquaintance With Darkness, Linda.

A full throated "boo" to book snobs!

BOOK#70


Being Dead by Jim Crace

Many thanks to Madeline and Donna for recommending this book. And, a big thanks for Brenzi (Bonnie) for sending an autographed copy to me as a gift!

I tremendously enjoyed this book, though, it does seem incongruently odd to say that I liked a book about "being dead".

The writing is magical, lyrical, complex and compelling. Two Middle aged Zoologists, Joseph and Celice have long struggled with a marriage that simply doesn't mesh. Successful in their field, yet by societal standands, they have failed in many areas, including raising a daughter who is self sufficicent and other directed.

It an attempt to find one last chance at romance, Joseph invites Celice to return to the area on Baritone Bay where they first met as post graduate students and had sexual encounters in the sand.

Tragically, their nostalgic journey nets their senseless killing and they are robbed and beaten to death in the deserted dunes.

While Craces' descriptions of the decay of their bodies is not an easy read, the reader is hooked by his intelligent philosophical rendering of life and the natural process we will all endure when we die.

This is seem less writing that is not romantic or over embellished with sorrow. And, while it seems clinical, there is enough character development that holds the reader riveted to the story, deeply understanding the fact that on a bring, sunny day, life can suddenly end.

Juxtapositioning chapters between the bodies on the beach and details regarding the lives of Cecile and Joseph lends to sadness, but also detachment. Truly, the characters are not like able. From the beginning chapters, the reader does not like self obsessed, pragmatic Cecile. Joseph seems flat and unappealing. Still, in no way does Crace intimate that their senseless, untimely death was justified.

Highly Recommended!

Great review, Linda! That one is already in the BlackHole.

This is a great review Linda, but I don't think it is a book I'd be able to read, at least not now. But I'll carefully put it on my watchlist.

That sounds like a book I would very much enjoy, so onto the wishlist it goes. Thanks for the review

I don't think it is one for me either.. but I am very glad it WAS one for you :)

Thumbs up for your review of Being Dead Linda and very happy that you liked it so much :)

Excellent review, Linda! I bought Being Dead a few years ago, but it's waaayyy at the back of my TBR list. I'll move it up now (assuming I can find it).

Ooo, I popped in just in time to see your review of Being Dead. There's another one for the wishlist!

Hi Linda

Just stopping by to say hello. I admire your quest to read the Newbery Award winners. I read a number of them when I took a YA lit class and found them highly enjoyable. I hope to continue reading them if I can whittle down my TBR pile soon!

I'm glad you enjoyed your latest book Linda. It's not for me at this time either, though it sounds like something I might want to read eventually. Maybe. Hope you're doing well.

>178 Whisper1:: Linda, you made Being Dead sound so enticing that I may have to read it again. Lol. I'm sure I could rearrange that sentence so it doesn't sound so odd, but I kind of like it and will let it stand!

Thumb from me on your review of Being Dead Linda. I had heard some mixed reviews of that book but your review made me want to read it.

Excellent review of Being Dead--oh. I guess that's already been mentioned.

One wonders what the book snobs read. While I may be a bit snobby in my choices, they're *my* choices; I wouldn't dream of commenting on someone else's in a negative way. It would be a danged dull world if we all liked vanilla ice cream.

Besides, a project to read all the Newberry's seems quite highbrow to me ;>).

Hi Linda, just saying hi and hoping you're having a good monday.

Happy Monday!

Waving hello!

Great review of Being Dead. I liked it very much and gave it 4 stars too.

#140, 147, 150 I am a self confessed book snob, Im not proud to admit! (I do keep my mouth shut about it- we all have our flaws). But I am seriously into people just reading and whatever enjoyment people can get from books I reckon is great!

Great review Linda but I think I've had enough about dead people for the next little bit... :)
After reading The Lovely Bones I've had some wicked and not so pleasant dreams so I think I'll steer clear away from that subject matter for a bit.

BOOK #71


The Staircase by Ann Rinaldi

Once again Rinaldi wrote an excellent book filled with likable characters and historical fact.

When Lizzy Elders traveled with her family in the long arduous trip west from Missouri in the hope of reaching Colorado for gold, sadly, Lizzy's mother died. When the remaining members of the party reached Santa Fe New Mexico, Lizzy was abandoned by her father and left at a Catholic boarding school with the sisters of Loretto.

The only Methodist among Catholics, Lizzy found their incessant prayers and rituals very foreign. Shunned by cruel, pious girls, she found friendship with a stranger who was a carpenter, a "crazy" lady who hides out in the hills and Jean-Baptiste Lamy, the Bishop of the Santa Fe Archdiocese.

Spunky enough to tolerate the taunts from others, still, Lizzy is deeply grieving her mother and angry at the abandonment by her father.

Using the backdrop of the unfolding coming-of-age story of Lizzie, Rinaldi expertly teaches the reader of the folklore and historical fact of the miraculous building of the spiral staircase in the chapel of Loretto.

After the original chapel was built, it was realized that the space was too small to accommodate a choir loft.

Legend shows that after nine days of prayers to St. Joseph, a shabby, raggedy carpenter appeared. Devoting months to the impossible task of building a staircase, when the project was finished, the carpenter left without seeking remuneration.

The Loretto Chapel staircase is a miraculous feat. Ascending twenty feet, it makes two complete 360 degree revolutions to the choir loft. Using only primitive tools and no nails, it appears that the carpenter did not have a central support, nor was the staircase affixed to a wall. Furthermore, the wood used was not indigenous to the area of Santa Fe, NW.

Educating readers is what Rinaldi does best! Her books are well written and informative.

Today the chapel at Loretto is no longer used as a church. It is a museum, and the incredible staircase still stands.

Linda.. I love that chapel! I was able to visit it when I was in Sante Fe a while back. It is so beautiful!
I just might have to read that book..

I visited the Chapel with an author Chris Griscom that I was fortunate to meet while visiting Galisteo..
she took me there and then we parted ways, and I had to find my way back to Albuquerque. I had been visiting my aunt Elaine and working an Holistic expo.. then, I met a woman named Giva who invited me to visit her in Galisteo.. and so..

It was a lovely adventure..
I loved Galisteo, too..

That was a great review, Linda. The life of Jean-Baptiste Lamy was the basis for the main character in Willa Cather's Death Comes for the Archbishop. I loved that book. I can't remember whether you read that one or not.

A great review Linda and thank you for again sharing some more of worlds' history with us. I love the myth behind the building of the staircase, it sounds amazing and would be a great place to visit one day. Thanks for the photos as well.

yeah.. what they said... oh, and thumbed, btw :)

Oh wow, Linda -- another great review! You describe what I love best about good historical fiction -- weaving a great story around and making a true event come to life. I love Death Comes for the Archbishop, and I have visited the Loretto Chapel. This books is going straight to my wish list!

Hello! Just to say that, as Kerry will attest, I am a huge fan of Land of Milk and Honey. I wrote a chapter of my PhD on Home Child literature for children, so I know how rare a text it is. There aren't that many titles around that deal with the subject. I see you've already found Flower, other Canadian titles worth looking at are Home Child, which was one of the first childlit texts on the topic, and Jean Little's Orphan at my Door, which is part of the Dear Canada series. They do lack the depth of Taylor's text but it's always interesting to see the variety of representation.

On an aside, if you are reading about the kindertransport and fancy a little local reading from my part of the world, try looking out Faraway Home by Marilyn Taylor. It's a refugee story that takes place in Northern Ireland, which is unusual enough in these stories.

Happy reading, Eimear.

>197 Whisper1:: Thank you, Linda, for the review of another Rinaldi book that sounds wonderful. I like books that educate me. The church and staircase in Santa Fe are even more awesome (in a breathtaking sense) in person.

Hi Linda, I once read a short story about this church and the staircase. I did not know about this novel. As you, I love novels that teach me about places and time periods. I am getting crazy about the Provence of Quebec and the City of Montreal now that I am reading the Three Pines series, am even planning a summer visit!

Excellent review, Linda. You make your reading sound so interesting and enlightening. I'm looking forward to this Rinaldi book.

Adding The Staircase to the BlackHole. Thanks for sharing the pictures as well as the review!

Fabulous review of The Staircase. I have added it to my someday stack. Thanks!

Kath
How very exciting that you saw the chapel and staircase!

Pat,

At the end of the book, the author mentioned Willa Cather's book and said she was very influenced by that book in writing The Staircase. I haven't read the book, but will do so.

Darn, another book on my list to be read.... but you didn't steer me wrong on the other Ann Rinaldi, so I'll plop it on the list.

How are you feeling? Are you getting any better?

Hi Linda,
Just read Our Only May Amelia. I have a granddaughter who often feels out-numbered by boys. I'll pass ths book on to her. Thanks for rec.

Nice review of The Staircase. Looks interesting - would love to see that place someday.

Wow Linda that staircase is breathtaking and the story behind it utterly fascinating. Thumb for the review and I'm adding this one to the teetering tower.

Hey Linda! Just trying to catch up and say hello!

Slammed by two Book Bullets, The Staircase and Death Comes for the Archbishop. They both sound so interesting, and I love that they're based on real life! Thanks for your always excellent reviews, Linda!

Great review of The Staircase. I am adding it to my pile. We are planning a visit to Santa Fe this summer, and I have not been to that museum. Something great to read and something great to see!

Got me with The Staircase, too. Mine is going to come from ammy tomorrow.

Just stopping by to see what you've been reading and to say hello. I've been woefully absent since the first of the year, due to a grueling academic year and some health issues that put me behind. But summer is here, and I'll be able to drop in more often!

The Staircase sounds very interesting.

I've been waaaaaaay behind on the threads Linda - I'm sure I've missed many interesting reads, but it's probably just as well that I'm not adding yet more to my wishlist. Mind you, The Staircase does sound interesting...

I hope you are feeling ok today and not having back pain...

197: Wow, that is a fantastic staircase!

Hi, Linda! I'm hopelessly behind on threads, but wanted to stop by and say hello!

Great review. I have added it to my wishlist. Thanks again

Great review of Staircase, Linda! Sound like a great book -and a thumb up from me... I just finishedRoom and while I was a bit disappointed - it was a pretty good read. I wrote a bit of a review on it.

It's not easy to keep up with you! :)

Having read Death Comes for the Archbishop not too long ago, I'm intrigued by The Staircase too. And I have yet to get my hands on anything by Ann Rinaldi so maybe this is the one to start with.

Now, I must read Death Comes for the Archbishop. Since I'm on vacation today, I think I'll mosey on over to the library to see if I can obtain a copy.

#225 -- I read The Staircase a while back, but now, having read everyone's comments, I will have to pick up Death Comes for the Archbishop, which has been on my TBR pile for some time.

#225 -- I read The Staircase a while back, but now, having read everyone's comments, I will have to pick up Death Comes for the Archbishop, which has been on my TBR pile for some time.

I seem to think that I read Death Comes for the Archbishop a zillion years ago.. but I remember nothing of it. Still the title rings a bell. Might just be one of those things.

I'm not a big fan of Death Comes for the Archbishop, but I did think of it when I read your review of The Staircase.

#229: While I liked Death Comes for the Archbishop OK, I much prefer Cather's My Antonia. I never could figure out why she did not win the Pulitzer for it rather than One of Ours, a lesser work IMHO.

I've read Death Comes, many years ago: my only Cather so far. I do remember enjoying that, and would like to re-read. But I've just bought two different Cathers, Lucy Gayheart and A lost lady, in Virago editions, so I guess they will come first. Anybody read those?

Hope youhave a very pleasant weekend, Linda!

#231: Genny, I have read A Lost Lady but not the other book.

>233 alcottacre:: same here ...

#233-4 How does it compare to her other works?

#235: I prefer Cather's My Antonia to A Lost Lady, but like Lady better than I did Death Comes for the Archbishop and her Pulitzer winner One of Ours. It is a good read IMO.

>235 gennyt:: I've read The Professor's House and One of Ours and liked The Professor's House best. A Lost Lady left me a little flat, to be honest. I have yet to read My Antonia, although it's on tap for June because I really want to read one of her better-known works.

Linda- Just swinging through to say hi! Hope you are having a nice holiday weekend.

#236, 237 - thanks for your thoughts. As I did enjoy Death Comes for the Archbishop hopefully I will enjoy these at least as much if not more. I really must get hold of My Antonia too.

Linda - sorry for hijacking your thread with these questions!

I have My Antonia and The Professor's House on my shelf but I've only read O Pioneers! which I really enjoyed. I guess I have lots of Cather to catch up on.

Hi Linda. Just stopping by to wish you a good holiday weekend.

Hi Linda, just stopping for a drive through wave.. which holiday are you all getting a long weekend for?

Hi Linda! Just stopping by to say hi! Hope you are having a wonderful long weekend!

Hi Linda! It's been awhile since I stopped by and I'm just trying to get caught up. Hope you have a nice holiday weekend.

Time for a new thread...found here:

http://www.librarything.com/topic/117132