Joe's Book Cafe

Okay, I'm going to give it a try. For those who asked in the past where my thread is, I've finally got one. We'll see how it goes!

A good friend and I have a soft spot for an old hangout, Joe's Cafe. I'm hoping for this to be a good place to hang out.

Happy New Year, and see you in 2012!

*twenty on bar* Pitcher of Sam Adams, please. Basket of chili cheese fries, too, jalapenos if you got 'em...?

Coming up! Should I keep the change?

...there's CHANGE?!
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.
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I am SO comin' back here!

Wow, I'm speechless! Funny, I saw Joe's Book Cafe Thread and thought...no, it couldn't be? I am so glad you decided to join us, my friend! Post as much or as little as you want. No pressure!

And I'll take what RD ordered!

Happy New Year!!

I'm here too, Joe. I like the ambience.

Hey, Mark. Glad you're here! Yeah, wish me luck. There's no way I can keep up like you two pro's do.

But the prices are good. :-)

Whoa, how did you slide in there, Donna? Welcome! Glad you like it. Beverage of your choice coming up!

Welcome back! Nice place...

Thanks, Jim. Nice to see you here!

I feel like I should put something bookly in this cafe, so here are my favorites from 2011:

Fiction:

1Q84 by Haruki Murakami
The Annotated Persuasion by Jane Austen and David M. Shapard
Aunt Julia and the Scriptwriter by Mario Vargas Llosa
Cold Comfort Farm by Stella Gibbons
Cry, the Beloved Country by Alan Paton
Death Comes for the Archbishop by Willa Cather
Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen
Girl in Translation by Jean Kwok
The Last Werewolf by Glen Duncan
The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven by Sherman Alexie
The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen by Syrie James
Matterhorn by Karl Marlantes
Remarkable Creatures by Tracy Chevalier
The Sense of an Ending by Julian Barnes
The Sisters Brothers by Patrick Dewitt
Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe

Non-fiction:

84 Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff
Bossypants by Tina Fey
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba
Lost in Shangri-La by Mitchell Zuckoff
Time Traveler's Guide to Medieval England by Ian Mortimer
Time Was Soft There by Jeremy Mercer

Young Adult:

The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary E. Pearson
Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver
Blood Red Road by Moira Young
Divergent by Veronica Roth
Enthusiasm by Polly Schulman
Moon Over Manifest by Clare Vanderpool
One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia
Understood Betsy by Dorothy Canfield Fisher
Unwind by Neal Shusterman

Graphic Novels:

Blankets by Craig Thompson
Box Office Poison by Alex Robinson
The Complete Essex County by Jeff Lemire
Heartbreak Soup by Gilbert Hernandez
Parker: The Outfit by Darwyn Cooke

Embassytown and Ready Player One were both really good sci-fi novels (I guess that's what the second one was), and Louise Penny's A Trick of the Light was my favorite mystery.

Hello! Joe's Cafe looks like a good place to stop. Can I see the menu please?

As for books, I'm interested to see that the Time Traveller's Guide was one of your favourites last year. I picked up a copy in my local charity shop, but have not yet got round to reading it, so I'm glad to hear it's not a dud. I also have copies of Remarkable Creatures and Things Fall Apart to get to...

*Scootches up near Richard and mooches a few fries*

Dropping by to add my star

Hi, Genny. The menu's on the wall over there. Yes, Time Traveler's Guide is not a dud. For some reason I'm fascinated by that period in history, and the book really puts you in its day to day.

Hi, Chelle. Ishmael (Derus) might share some of the Sam Adams, too. Thanks for the star!

Hello, chuckling as I read along, i guess that means I'm staying for the three courses plus coffee!

I have seen so many of your posts on Marks thread. Thought I would lurk on yours. Hope you don't mind.

*passes Chelle a mug*

No more fries. I'm gettin' the broccoli bites with honey mustard next.

Oooh, A Trick of the Light *mists up*

What in the world is a broccoli bite??

Chopped broccoli bound together with superfine flour, egg, and cheddar, formed into a ball, and deep fried.

AKA yummenstein's monster.

Great list of books! Based on that alone, I think I will have to drop by here and check out what you are reading this year! :)

Like Valerie, I'll be peeking in here every once in a while. :)

#18 Hmmm I'll have to take an order, sounds yummmmmmm!

Glad you decided to join in the fun, Joe! Do you serve pizza? I cannot live without it :)

Wow, Joe, see you are already a hit! Keep the chow coming!

hi Joe
It looks like a good and comfy place here!

>14 LovingLit: Hi, Megan. Glad you're staying for a while! Try the broccoli bites (recommended by Ishmael).

>15 cindysprocket: You're more than welcome to lurk, Cindy. You might like the jukebox.

>19 jolerie: Glad you're going to stop by, Valerie, thanks!

>20 MickyFine: Good to see you, Mickey. Ditto re yours!

>22 alcottacre: Welcome, Stasia! I know you're busy, so I appreciate the stop-by. Yes, we've got Chicago stuffed, if you're hungry, and thin crust with all the fixins.

>24 FAMeulstee: Anita? Frank? The whole gang? Thanks for coming such a long way! Yes, please consider it your home away from home.

Mark, Richard, Chelle, great to have you all as regulars. I can tell the chef is going to enjoy trying to meet Richard's requests.

Mornin can't see no coffee yet gimme some ouefs a la neige to go kthxbye

Comin' your way. The chef inquires how you like them ouefs made.

Poached yolks in a meringue basket topped with sauce bearnaise.

Can I join the party? I would love a chilli burger and a steaming cup of coffee... please. I have not read any of those books. Where to start?

>28 richardderus: On its way. Proprietor stepping out for a while.

>29 JenniferMichelle: You bet, Jennifer. Here's the coffee, with the burger coming up. The books depend some on what you like. I'm a big Murakami fan, but 1Q84 is huge. Try After the Quake (short stories) or Kafka on the Shore. Among the young adult, Divergent is a standout.

After the Quake looks great. I will add it to my list. Wow thos burger is spicy, just the way I like it.

Jenn

Broccoli bites and a beer for me please! Just put A trick of the light on hold at the library.

> 25: Sorry Joe, forgot to sign my message.
The books are loved by both Frank and Anita, but the chat on LT is by Anita ;-)

>31 JenniferMichelle: Glad to hear it, Jenn. Let me know what you think of ATQ. I passed on your burger compliments to the chef.

>32 mckait: Thanks for the outstanding cat, Kath. Mice will not be a problem at this cafe.

> 33 Coming up, Ardene. Note to self: need more b. bites. A Trick of the Light is another terrific one in this series. Hope you enjoy it.

I just got back from a fruitful trip to the library. Unbroken finally came in, along with two young adult ones.

Yes! Joe, I'm so glad that you have your own thread finally! I'll have to go back over your favorite reads in 2011 and add a few titles to my TBR list.

Since I'm here, I'll have a vodka tonic with a lime and an order of fried olives please!

Ah, good to see you, Laura! Finally is right - I'm going to give it a try. Tips from the pros are welcome.

Fried olives? The chef says yes, so sip on the vodka tonic and we'll have them for you in a minute.

They're wonderful, giant black olives stuffed with gorgonzola or some such and deep fried, served with a side of ranch. Healthy? No. Delicious? Damn skippy.

What's a cafe without food, right? So glad I found your spot, Joe. And I love your 2011 reading list.

Fried olives with gorgonzola and bacon are absolutely delish served up with icy cold martinis.

Thanks Laura and Caro. I can tell I'm going to learn a lot in this cafe. We'll bring Caro the icy cold martinis and you two can go to town on the fried olives.

I love the phrase "Damn skippy"!

Wow this cafe is popular! :)

Good luck on your challenge-so glad you've finally signed up for this!

I'll take a chai, and a big plate of cheese fries-they may not go together, but they are delicious! ;)

mmm.... martinis, cheese fries and fried olives ....all we need to complete this are hot wings and probably paramedics on standby

On their way, seasonsoflove! We took your tip and stocked the brand of chai you like.

It should be a fun 2012. Happy New Year!

Excellent work Dad! I've decided I no longer need to hide my secret identity as your 20-something bookworm daughter ;) Mom and I will definitely take some of that Oregon Chai.

Happy New Year! Yay 2012!

Cool, daughter o' mine. Now you won't need to change clothes in the phone booth! (And these days it's hard to find one). I still can't believe it's you once you put those glasses on. The chai is ready whenever you and your ma stop by.

My glasses are quite magical, it's true...though they need a good cleaning and to have the hinges tightened so I stop flying into the outside of buildings as opposed to the insides.

And I shall stop by for that chai at 11 AM tomorrow ;) I expect it nice and hot, with Happy New Year across the top in spun sugar ;)

You got it - I'll let your ma do the honors with the spun sugar. :-)

Joe, nice to see you stationed nicely for 2012. If this is to be the joint for prandial merriment - I'm a real ale man so set me aside Theakston's Old Peculiar. Mark will probably follow suit as will Kath but she'll spoil everything by cooking the stuff. Ilana will have a baileys in her coffee but it tends to get her frisky to do entertaining book reviews.

Great to see you, Paul. Yes, we do prandial merriment here all year round. Theakston's Old Peculiar sounds good - I'll join you and Mark if you don't mind. I know Mark knows his beer; I was a fortunate beneficiary at the Chicago get-together. I've heard about Ilana and Baileys and read the results - I suspect I'd be making little if no sense if I tried that, but she seems to be inspired by the combo.

You guys are really making me thirsty over here! I just got home from work and need to stretch out awhile. We are going out to St. Charles for a NYE party. And they always have top-notch brew!

Have a good time tonight, Joe!

Thanks, Mark. We're off to a neighbor's for out-of-the-cafe food (she's a great cook) and champagne (probably no beer at this one), with hopes of glimpsing midnight. :-)

I hope you and the missus have a great time!

Oh, I'm getting so hungry that I just have to de-lurk and start munching on something...
Also, I'm completely jealous that you've read Bossypants - I put it on my Amazon wishlist, but none of my relatives picked it as a Christmas gift. Sadness.

I will take a veggie pizza on thin crust, please, with a Diet Pepsi. . .

Happy New Year, Joe!

Hey Hey! This place is hoppin'!

Happy New Year Joe!

I see by your little *gossip session* with Mr. Paul that I've acquired a reputation as a lush in there parts? I'll pass on the Bailey's actually. Been there done that. A whole bottle in one week will do that to you. Can't decided what I should have as my next drink to lubricate the Review Muse... I'll think on it and get back to you! ;-)

Ha Ha Ilana - just thought I put a marker down for you early so Joe could get plenty of stock in. I'm partial to a drink or three myself only I couldn't write such cogent reviews when partially full of the stuff!

Happy New Year, Joe. I'm glad I will be able to find you easily this year. I didn't realize that Seasonoflove was your daughter! No wonder she has such excellent taste in books!

A cup of coffee with a dash of Ilana's Bailey, and a small order of Laura's deep fried olives (which I've never heard of before but sound delicious) would hit the spot!

>52 scaifea: Hi, Amber! Thanks for driving down to Chicago for a visit. Not surprised you're hungry! The chef is ready for your order.

Bossypants is well worth getting your hands on. No surprise, she's hilarious and amazingly self-deprecating. It's also interesting to read how women in comedy were treated when she started - "women aren't funny", and the difficulty women had even getting into skits at Second City. It's hard to believe in these days of Tina Fey and Amy Poehler and Kristen Wiig and Mindy Kaling and on and on, but it's encouraging that some of the stupidity has been outgrown.

>53 alcottacre: Coming up, Stasia. We can also handle pan pizza if you get a craving. Happy New Year to you, too!

>54 Smiler69: Happy New Year, Ilana! Lush? No way. More like enthusiastic and inspired beverage imbiber. If you're off of Bailey's, consider Kahlua - that's one I like in coffee.

>55 PaulCranswick: Cogency would plummet with me, too, Paul. Although I'd probably think it was brilliant - until a more sober later. We'll stock up. Consider the Kahlua comment above. We had some terrific champagne last night - I'm going to ask today what the heck brand it was.

>56 DeltaQueen50: Ah, so glad you stopped by, Judy. Happy New Year! Yes, Becca has great taste and is a voracious reader. Whenever the family shops together she always comes away with the most books. She's a lot more on the side of the romantic vampires than her curmudgeonly dad, but on the other hand her dad ends up in outer space a lot more than she does.

Coffee with Bailey's and fried olives coming up! Note to self: looking okay on the broccoli bites, but need more fried olives.

Yes, speaking of outer space, my first book of 2012 is a sci-fi space opera. Did I hear some groans? Well, it was a good one, so there.

Ghost Ship by Sharon Lee features young Theo Whatley coming into her own as pilot, member of a leading family she didn't know she was part of, fighter, master of strategerie (sorry for the George Dubya reference; I know we're all trying to unremember him) and savior of her battered paramour. Lots of action, fun characters, twisty drama and the occasional enormous and funny turtle person - what's not to like? It's the latest in the Liaden Universe series, which has zealous fans but less general popularity than it deserves. If you read sci-fi and are intrigued, start with Pilot's Choice, which collects the first books.

Next up is another sci-fi book (not!), Cannery Row, for the Steinbeckathon. Looking forward to Ilana's thoughts on this one.

#58: I keep hoping my local library will get the Liaden Universe series in, but no such luck yet. Maybe PBS will come through for me one of these days.

Glad to see that your first book of the year was such a good read, Joe! I hope it continues that way all year long.

Thanks, Stasia. I just checked our library on-line, and was pleasantly surprised to find it has a whole bunch of the Liaden books. So you need to come visit. Actually, if you come to visit, you can just borrow ours.

Obviously I need to head your direction posthaste. I wonder if I can call in dead to the office tonight?

I like this cafe, although I'll definitely pass on the broccoli bites. I'm glad that 1Q84 was one of your favorite reads of the year; I'll start reading it this afternoon.

Hah! They'll wonder whether there's some truth to this zombie craze. :-) Do you really have to work tonight? I hope not.

Yes, I really have to work tonight. Unfortunately. Heading your way to borrow books sounds so much better than work.

>64 alcottacre: Ah, I wish we could make it happen. My sympathy. Seems like no one should have to do that today. Your strategic change with school, etc., sounds better and better.

The cafe will be open if you get hungry!

How does IQ84 compare with Murakami's other works, Joe? I think my favorites of his is still Kafka on the Shore and Norwegian Wood but I was left a little uneasy by The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle.

Hi, Caro. I love the matter-of-fact surreality of his writing, and 1Q84 fits that well. Main character Aomame is not what you think initially, and she slips into one of those alternate worlds of his. I thought it was terrific, with a strong romantic thread. It haunted me so much it was hard to switch to reading other books right afterwards, because they weren't the same.

To be fair, my view sure isn't universal. Some think it rambled too much and was too repetitive. Not me. I like going where he goes.

My favorite is Kafka on the Shore, and The Wind-up Bird Chronicle would be second. After the Quake, a collection of some of his short stories, is up there, too. This (1Q84)would fall slightly below those, at least right now. Oddly enough, I didn't like Norwegian Wood as much as some of the others because it wasn't bizarre enough. :-) (If you want bizarre, try A Wild Sheep Chase or Hard-boiled Wonderland and the End of the World!)

To me, you can't lose by reading him, including 1Q84. One not many read that is really interesting is Underground, a non-fiction book about the cult attack on the Japanese mass transit system.

But perhaps I digress. :-)

Many years ago when the internet was new ( to me ) there was a magical place called Knowpost.
It was like Camelot, and for one brief shining moment provided a magical spot for those of us lucky enough to find it. It was a Q&A site and much info was exchanged and many wonderful discussions were had. There was also a place where we could just ramble ... and a "Pub" was born. It sparked some of the best times ! There were scheduled "parties" there... What good times we had! Your thread here brought up good memories of that magical place and time ( lives were literally changed forever there ...)

So.. Thank you!

What a nice thing to say, Kath. Thank you! Sounds like that was a great site. I hope we have those kind of good times here, too. I'm glad it's reminded you of that. Plus I think the food's even gotten a little better since we started.

P.S. Caro, there's nothing like the flaying scene in TWUBC in 1Q84 (or any of the others). I think that's the one that really disturbs people.

Wow Joe I guess the seating arrangements at the cafe are going to be pretty cramped judging by the response to date. Sure looks like a great place to hang - being a Yorkshireman I should get you to sort out some Yorkshire Puddings although given my present residency sticks of chicken satay with spicy peanut sauce would suffice also!

Oh, man, I'm jealous, Paul. I sure like the idea of being a Yorkshireman. Way back when my dad's side were Welsh (hence the name) and English; his sailor grandfather came across and got straightened out considerably by his grandmother, who took him to a dry (as in no alchohol) state, Iowa, which also had no gambling. Both qualities apparently were important. :-) Anyway, if you're longing for some good Yorkshire Pudding because you normally can't get it, we'll get the chef started.

Thanks Joe but sometimes the ideaof being a Yorkie beats the reality of it! You're ok with the recipe right?

I hope you'll pardon the commercial interruption, but there's a truly excellent documentary that's going to be shown in the U.S. on Oprah's OWN network on Jan. 5. It's about the largest teen slam poetry festival in the country (located here), and I don't know anyone who's seen it who hasn't been moved and somehow changed by it. The featured kids, who are public school kids from all parts of Chicago, are amazing.

Here's what my lovely wife said about it in an email, with a couple of bracketed additions from me:

"I wanted to let you know that on Thursday, January 5th at 8 pm {Central}, Oprah's television network (OWN) will be showing Louder Than a Bomb, the documentary of the teen poetry festival of the same name which is a program of Young Chicago Authors (YCA). I hope that you have the time to watch the film (Jesse {our son} is on one of the featured teams). You will definitely come away from it enriched and enlightened.

Both Becca and Jesse are graduates of YCA. The opportunities it offered them - and still offers so many of Chicago's youth - are amazing. There are free writing workshops, performance training and opportunities, journalism classes, field trips to writing conferences and more. Through writing and the telling of their stories we are training and encouraging them to be in conversation with the rest of the city, country and world. We think young people should be seen and heard which is why we make opportunities, cultural spaces and forums for them to gather, meet, speak with and listen to one another."

Thanks for your thoughts on IQ84, Joe. I'd forgotten about Underground which is in my TBR Tower. I skimmed that at a bookstore about 4 years ago and lo and behold, it leaped out of my hands and into my basket .. go figure!

Other Murakami books I had read and forgotten to mention are What I Talk About When I Talk About Running, his memoir about ... well, running .. which I really enjoyed, and The Elephant Vanishes.

It's a cafe, Joe ... one is allowed to digress. How else are we going to find surprising and often surrealistic conversations? ;-)

We don't subscribe to OWN ... any chance you could record the bit with Jesse and post it here or on youtube?

Hooray -- I'm so glad you have a thread! I'll be back often, though it seems I may need a reservation...? I will definitely look at a menu :) Happy New Year!

>75 cameling: Good point about digressing, Caro. You know, What I Talk About When I Talk About Running is the only one of his I haven't read, although I read the New Yorker excerpt. I can't run anymore (my bionic hips aren't bionic enough - get with it, technology), and it just bugs me - makes me aggravated - right now. I've got the book though, so I'll read it when I get a bit more philosophical about the whole thing.

I'll check on whether I can get the excerpt with Jesse, although he's only on briefly. He's not one of the featured ones. Here's the trailer for it, which is pretty cool:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=81hXGdFF6TQ

>76 AMQS: Good to see you, Anne! No reservations needed - we've got plenty of room. The menu's up there on the wall. Happy New Year to you, too!

Happy New Year Joe! I commented on your daughter's thread already telling her how cool I think you guys are BOTH on LT. :)

I read my first space opera last year as well, Revelation Space. I didn't even know such a genre existed until I read that book and I didn't realize that it was the first book in a long series. The book was pretty interesting so I think I will read the rest of the books eventually. My only confusion is I'm not entirely sure I know the difference between your regular sci-fi and the space opera variety?

Thanks, Valerie. Yes, she's a treat and we're having fun being on LT together. Her mom (walklover) just joined the 75ers, so now we're a triple threat!

There are a lot of science fiction types, like cyberpunk, military, alien invasion/alien contact and more. Space opera to me is about large scale tactical and social interactions, usually involving multiple civilizations and planets. Lois McMaster Bujold's wonderful Vorkosigan series comes to mind. Here's what Wikipedia says, which includes the "large-scale" idea:

"Space opera is a subgenre of science fiction that emphasizes romantic, often melodramatic adventure, set mainly or entirely in outer space, generally involving conflict between opponents possessing advanced technologies and abilities. The term has no relation to music and it is analogous to "soap opera" (see below). Perhaps the most significant trait of space opera is that settings, characters, battles, powers, and themes tend to be very large-scale."

Not sure how helpful that is, but maybe you get the general idea.

Thanks for mentioning Revelation Space. That's a new one to me.

Yeah, then Revelation Space more than adequately falls into that definition. Large scope and time frame, and lots of drama!

Triple threat is pretty awesome. I was telling Becca I didn't think it would take very much to convince her mom since it's 2 against 1. A family that reads together, stays together, or so the saying goes. I need to get my son into early although my husband isn't much help since his reading time is limited to bathroom breaks. :/

Hah! A lot of important reading takes place in the bathroom, no doubt about it.

My son's the youngest, and told us he knew he had to learn to read because the rest of us were doing it so much. :-) He likes factoid books a lot, and fiction writers like Vonnegut and Gaiman. I don't know if we'll ever get him on LT; right now he seems to think college papers and exams and his senior thesis are important. Needless to say, we agree.

OK, since this is a nice, lazy weekend (not for poor Stasia, though - we're going to try to send her some takeout soup), I'm going to try one more thing before we go out. I can't find where on LT this originated, but maybe a visitor to the cafe can tell us. Anyway, the idea is to answer with book titles from what I read in 2011. Here goes:

Describe yourself: Adventures of the Magic Monkey Along the Silk Road

Describe how you feel: Heart of a Samurai

Describe where you currently live: Zoo City

If you could go anywhere, where would you go: Lost in Shangri-La

Your favorite form of transportation: Leviathan

Your best friend is: Mrs. Palfrey at the Claremont

You and your friends are: Remarkable Creatures

What’s the weather like: Below Zero

You fear: Hark! A Vagrant!

What is the best advice you have to give: We All Fall Down

Thought for the day: Things Fall Apart

How I would like to die: Box Office Poison

My soul’s present condition: Fledgling

Hey, Joe, I came to your thread because of the books we have in common--I nearly said universes, as in the Liaden Universe and the Vorkosigan universe. I am so happy that Theo's story has finally caught up to the end of I Dare!--I was ready to shoot Sharon and Steve at that cliff-hanger, except that would have meant no more stories. I usually recommend starting with Agent of Change, because I think the stories in Pilot's Choice have more depth if you've already met Val Con and Shan.

This place is hopping....I am going to like it here....!

Just got back from Marks...you're gonna need a big supply of Delerium Tremens, I bet!

>82 jnwelch: lol, good questions (and even better answers)!

#82: I appreciate the take out soup! I would kill for some minestrone right now!

Thought I'd pop in and see what's up. I'm listening to the Revelation Space series at the moment, up to book 4 and love it.

>85 richardderus: I first read that as I just got back from Mars....
good grief! * Hands rd coffee*

"you're gonna need a big supply of Delerium Tremens". OMG, I would never leave!! LOL, RD!!

Hi, everybody, sorry for the slow open of the cafe today. I was out last night and slept in. Free coffee to make up for it.

>83 ronincats: My goodness, am I glad you're here, Roni! I can use all the Liaden help I can get. You may have a good idea there with Agent of Change. I just went along the first to last route. I was so glad to have a lot of Val and Miri in the last one!

>84 mckait: It's the better for having you here, Kath! Hope the coffee's the way you like it.

>85 richardderus: I just got back from Mark's, too, Richard. You're right - Delerium Tremens is on the list, although the name gives me the shakes. (*Groan*)

>86 LovingLit: Thanks, Megan! Those quizzes sure are fun to do. It does seem like Zoo City here, I'll tell you that much.

>87 alcottacre: Glad you liked the take out soup, Stasia. Hot minestrone soup coming up! Sorry the proprietor was a bit slow out of the gate this morning.

>88 avatiakh: Good to see you, Kerry! Thanks for coming such a long way. Up to book 4 and loving it is a good recommendation for Revelation Space.

>89 mckait: Just got back from Mars isn't that far off, seems to me, Kath. :-) My family often says that kind of thing about me.

>90 msf59: There's my guy! Glad you found time to visit, Mark. Holy smokes there's a lot going on over at your thread. Yes, we're going to try to stock up on one of your favorite beers here to lure you over more often.

Hi again, Joe, what a busy little place you have here. LTers are drawn to good food almost as much as to good books! I think it is so cool that your family has joined you here. I'll be paying visits to your wife and daughter soon. I'm on a mission to read my first book of the year today!

Thank you for that shout out about YCA. I hope to catch at least part of the broadcast and will look for your son. I'm still trying to wrap my head around Murakami. Our library book group is discussing The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle Thursday night. I'm eager to see the groups' reaction. I'm the only one who has read anything by him. I really have to space his books out as they mess with my head so much. ;-)

>82 jnwelch:: Loved your answers to the book meme. Fun to do, wasn't it? I think it's been floating around LT for several years and Stephen (Ape) revived it. I'm glad he did because it was so much fun to review my year through my answers.

I'm not going to stop long enough to eat, Joe. I still have a fridge full of yummy but slowly expiring leftovers! My husband has promised to eat brisket for the next two days - and then out it goes!
Have a great day!

> Thanks, Donna. Good to have you stop by! Not sure what goes well with brisket, but we can probably whip it up if you want it.

My wife and daughter would love a visit. Glad the YCA film looked intriguing to you. It's well worth it.

You can tell I'm a Murakami nut. I actually first saw his After the Quake short stories as a play, went and got the book, read it and got hooked. I then read several of his in a row. Yes, the world seemed a bit off kilter for a while after that, and I noticed cats a lot. :-)

The meme was fun, indeed. I'll stop by and thank Stephen (Ape).

I'll see you on your thread. Have a great rest of the day! I sure enjoy goofing off. My son now wants to watch a dvd with me of an obscure Jackie Chan film that's a sequel to the entertaining but plot-less Project A. Likely to be lots of action with little or no sense. Off I go!

Sounds like the movie with your son is perfect for a day of goofing off, Joe. Enjoy!

How about some spiked ice tea at the cafe, Joe? Perfect for a lazy afternoon with 1Q84 which I've just started. :-)

Hi Joe! How's the cafe going today? We've been busy at home, taking the holiday stuff down. Big job. I'm not sure if I'll get to the outside lights, unless my son comes home and helps me. It's COLD out there!

*drums fingers on counter* (still waiting for free coffee for the late opening)
I'll have a decaf please (unless you want baby spew on the counter....), I'm happy to pay any extra charges that the extraction of caffeine might cost.

>94 alcottacre: Stasia, it was like The Godfather of Hong Kong martial arts films. Superb (well, not entirely awful) acting, a script that made a heck of a lot more sense than the film it sequelized (I'm greatly doubting that's really a word), and plenty of amazing Jackie Chan stunts.

He sure seems to have a good time - they typically show bloopers (mainly messed up stunts or fights) in the credits of his Hong Kong movies, and there's a lot of laughter. A lot of humorous commentary from my son along the way as we watched, kind of like Mystery Science Theater, for those who know what the heck that is.

>95 cameling: Spiked ice tea coming up, Caro. Any spike preference? How about a long island iced tea? Here's how we make it:

1 part Smirnoff® vodka
1 part tequila
1 part rum
1 part gin
1 part triple sec
1 1/2 parts sweet and sour mix
1 splash Coca-Cola®

We can customize it for you, though.

If you have time, keep us posted on how you like 1Q84 as you go along. If you're like me, it'll take a while to finish it, and I'm already curious as to what you think.

>96 msf59: Cafe's fine, Mark, thanks. I'm still waiting for someone to play the jukebox and tell us what's on it.

We cleaned up our tree a bit, too. We waffle between being lazy and being responsible, and the first seems to be winning out. Now the wife and son are watching a show called Oddities about an unusual NYC store. Anyone know it? Mrs. Walklover wants to go there next time we're in NY.

>97 LovingLit: Oh my, I feel terrible, Megan. I could've sworn I asked someone to fix you up with java while I was out. The best decaf you've ever had coming up, and pick out a piece of pie you want - it's on us.

Now I'm going to go look for the fancy posts thread. I keep losing it!

I know what Mystery Science Theater is, Joe. It sounds like you and your son had a good time with the movie.

How about playing this track, a little country, a little rock, damn good:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ooTyuRd9zSg&feature=relmfu

Joe, How about some Kasey Chambers on the Juke Box.

>99 alcottacre: We did have a good time, Stasia. The best is when daughter and son getting going together watching something foolish. My daughter got us all started on Mystery Science Theater, and we've never forgiven her. :-)

>100 msf59: Nicely done, Mr. Mark. Plus there's something I've always liked about black and white films - that would probably not be as effective in color.

BTW, as Mark now knows, the jukebox here is free. We aims to please.

I loves me some Kasey Chambers!

This is what we're talking about. We created a comfy spot in the corner of the cafe. No, I don't know these two. Wish I did.

I loves Long Island Iced Tea, but I don't know that I'd get much reading done after 3 or 4 of those things.... and I may fall off the hammock too. I make a simple unsweetened iced tea with slices of lemon and a bit of mint and then add vodka to it.

Your cozy corner reminds me of a little cafe in Hong Kong on Lamma Island called The Bookworm Cafe. It serves vegetarian organic food (actually I had the best loaded vegetarian pizza there) and awesome smoothies. They've built in bookshelves on one side of the walls loaded with books. If you don't have a book when you're there, you're welcome to pull one off the shelves and read, or you could leave them whatever you've read that you don't want to take back with you on the ferry. It's a cute little place that gets terribly crowded with lines waiting outside on weekends.

No problem with the unsweetened ice tea, Caro. Coming up as ordered. I like the idea of adding a bit of mint.

The Bookworm Cafe sounds great. I'm adding it to the list of places I want to go, along with the Bachelor Brothers Bed and Breakfast. I do have a suspicion one is easier to find in the real world than the other.

You're much more well-traveled than I am, methinks. I'm pretty good on places visited in Europe, but I've whiffed entirely on Asia. I've always wanted to visit Hong Kong (yeah, I like big cities), so this is further inspiration. We'll be a lot closer this summer, with a visit to Australia (for the first time).

Bachelor Brothers Bed and Breakfast....me too!
And Three Pines of course.....

I don't get over to Europe much anymore because my work takes me to the Asia Pacific and South America these days. But I used to spend quite a bit of time in Western Europe when I lived in London for 8 years or so. I miss some of the spots I used to hang out in and quaint bookstores in some of the cities.

When are you going to Australia? I'm heading to Melbourne later this month for a few days to interview some candidates to hire for our office there. I'm usually in Sydney and Melbourne twice a year, although this year, with my new hire, I think I'll have to be in Melbourne more often. My goal is still (when I finagle a way to fit it in my schedule) for the hubster and I to fly out to Lord Howe Island .. it's one of the World Heritage Sites and you get around the whole island only on bicycle. :-)

I want to go to the Bookworm Cafe too! I never get beyond the US (and almost never beyond Texas' state lines) though.

I'll take pics the next time I'm there.

Meet you there, Stasia! That would be fun, wouldn't it? An LT get-together at The Bookworm Cafe. We need some Star Trek teleportation so we can make this happen.

Yeah, you're way more well-traveled, Caro! :-) Oh how I'd love to live in London for a while. And travel to visit that Hay-on-Wye literature festival. That festival's third on my list with The Bookwork Cafe and the Bachelor Brothers' place.

Australia is June for us. Sydney's on the itinerary, along with Cairn and Brisbane and a surprise place I can't mention because Becca comes to this cafe.

Help. PLease! I started the list of books I read so far, but I cannot figure out to make the book title an actual link - like Joe and everyone else has managed to do with their lists. Clearly I should have ordered coffee with my chilli burger or a smart pill, because I am going to feel like an idiot when I find out.

Thank you,
Jenn

I was wondering why I was smelling the good food through my computer and apparently it was coming right from Joe's Cafe. At least this is where my nose led me. Matterhorn made my Best Reads list too Joe.

>112 JenniferMichelle: It's a touchstone...the message box shows you how to make them over to the right side. A single square bracket front and rear around the title = book touchstone, a double = author touchstone!

{The Night Circus}

{{Erin Morgenstern}}

Instead of curlies, though, use square brackets: The Night Circus Erin Morgenstern

NOTE WELL!! SPELLING IS CRUCIAL! There is no predictiveness in the system.

>112 JenniferMichelle: Jenn, I left an explanation on your Profile page. Just let me know if it doesn't work for you.

>113 brenzi: Hi, Bonnie! Matterhorn was really remarkable, wasn't it? I can't think of a book like it, although it otherwise reminds me of The Things They Carried and Michael Herr's Dispatches for the same war. Dispatches blew me away lo those many years ago.

Thaks for the help everyone. I did it!!

Jenn

Chiming in with love of Matterhorn! Awesome book. My favorite read of 2010!

I slept all day and missed tonnes of action here. Just putting a bookmark in place so I can find my spot next time I come back. (Hi Joe!)

Hi, Ilana! Your usual booth will be ready when you return.

#111: Somebody needs to invent a teleporter quick! I am not getting any younger! :)

*starts the coffee*

Hah! Thanks, Kath. You've figured out how slow the proprietor can be. The chef's awake though, singing some Italian song I don't recognize.

Ilana's done a great job of getting the Steinbeckathon started. Here's this month's Cannery Row thread:

Cannery Row: http://www.librarything.com/topic/130108

Here's the main thread for it:

http://www.librarything.com/topic/130105

Oh dear.. I think I will just smile and nod through those...
I read Steinbeck years ago and feel as if I have suffered enough..:PP LOL

I hoped you wouldn't mind if I started without you :) It is so good to enter a place and smell coffee :)

It sure does, Kath. Thanks for getting it going. I'm perking up a bit already. (Does "perking up" have any linguistic relation to percolating coffee, I wonder?) Please feel free - the cafe needs to be open, and sometimes its proprietor is such a space cadet. There are at least two other LTers (related to me) who will confirm that.

I thought I had suffered enough when I read East of Eden a long time ago (although I liked Of Mice and Men). Then last year for some reason I read The Log From the Sea of Cortez and really enjoyed it. So far Cannery Row also is a good read.

I will keep that in mind.. I have not read Cannery Row.. East of Eden made my eyes bleed though..

eta

I look forward to "meeting" the rest of your family..

:)

The Grapes of Wrath is, while extraordinary and beautiful, the most depressing book I've ever loved. I defy any sunbeam to shine while a person reads it...no crystal may sparkle...no twittering bird offer cheer and comfort.

Then, after being completely wrung out and then having the worry-lines steam-ironed into one's face, the end comes and...

...it's just as sad as the rest of the book. Perfect! I thought I would water the lawn with my tears and sweat as I struggled with those poor folks. Can't ask for a better read than that!

>125 mckait: Hah! That's a strong reaction to East of Eden, Kath, but I will say it's similar to mine.

The rest of my family is charming and well worth meeting, in my totally unbiased opinion.

>126 richardderus: Hi, Richard! That's another one (Grapes of Wrath) I feel I've got to read some day. Maybe the week after I win the lottery and my beloved Bulls win the championship, just to add balance. It might make a good pairing with The Worst Hard Time, which I also want to read. I'll try to find a quiet place full of cheer and tissues when I do.

I'll try to find a quiet place full of cheer and tissues when I do.

Won't help. Trust me, it's just one of those books that must be ridden out, like a dust storm. I became a liberal as a result of reading between the lines of that book.

Joe, I re-read Grapes of Wrath in 2011, which reminded me how much I loved Steinbeck's writing, which in turn became one of the motivators to read a lot more of his work, which is how the Steinbeckathon came to be.

Thanks for reposting the links here by the way. I stopped by a few threads and posted them myself, but ran out of steam. Speaking of which... I left a cup of tea sitting in the kitchen. Must get to it pronto!

We can get you a cuppa if you want, Ilana. Glad to hear you re-read GOW (you must have tear ducts of steel, based on Richard's description) and it had such an impact. You're welcome on the postings - thank you for doing such a great job of organizing it. Great visuals, too.

>128 richardderus: I bet you're now look forward to the graphic novel of GOW. :-) I like you as a liberal, so that's another positive for the book.

Thanks Joe, I retrieved my cup in the kitchen in the meantime, but if you have Earl Grey tea around, I might have my second cup right here since I've got my own booth and all...

I'm glad you liked the visuals. Like I said over on the thread, I can't help myself from going into *designer* mode and adding visuals whenever possible. Plus, makes it look more like a bookish place to actually see book covers, don'tcha think?

I've started East of Eden about 3 times and never got past page 50, but not because I felt that it was a bad book or anything. I don't think I read far enough to really make any judgment on it. More often than not, other books just ended up distracting me from continuing. Hopefully this year with some group reads, I will be able to finish my first Steinbeck book!

>132 jolerie: Valerie, Cannery Row makes an *excellent* start, and a group read is the perfect way to get and keep your enthusiasm up and running. Plus, it's shorter than East of Eden. And marginally more cheerful.

>131 Smiler69: Earl Grey coming up!

>132 jolerie: Someone else will have to urge you to finish East of Eden, Valerie. From my POV, I wish I had bailed out at p.50 or sooner.

>133 richardderus: Yes, I'm liking Cannery Row a lot so far, so I can believe it's a good place to start. Of Mice and Men seems like a "shouldn't miss" to me, too.

Here's me who loved East of Eden and Grapes of Wrath! I just couldn't get organized to get to Cannery Row this month but I will be joining in with some of the later reads. I read Of Mice and Men as a re-read last year, and it still blew me away. I am looking forward to re-reads of both The Red Pony and The Pearl and a first-time read of Travels With Charley.

And now, after all that, my mouth is dry so perhaps a cup of Earl Grey for me as well, Joe. Thanks.

Wow, I love all the Steinbeck talk! I'm with Judy, I loved both Grapes of Wrath & East of Eden, but I credit TGOW, which I read in high school, for really putting me on the right literary path and it still remains my favorite book of all time. Now, I'll climb off my stool and go visit some other threads.

checking in for today, Joe

I will take a hot cuppa Earl Gray too

>135 DeltaQueen50: Earl Grey hot, coming up, Stasia. (Trekkies - who else liked to drink Earl Grey - hot?)

>136 msf59: Good to see you, Mark. We're considering putting a plaque with your name on that stool. Nice TGOW story. You've sure had some path since then, from what I've seen.

>137 alcottacre: Earl Grey hot, coming up, Stasia. (Thanks for your patience). I'm starting to want some now. Note to self: need more Earl Grey.

I'm getting a kick out of Cannery Row. There's a chapter about a slightly off boy named Frankie that's a heartbreaker and a knockout.

ugh, so tired! Does the cafe have coffee with bailies? If so I'll take one please!!

I see mention of family members being on LT. Did I miss a post with their user names in it? Curious...

trekkies..?? I have been to star trek conventions with my kids..:)
& I own the plans for USS Enterprise (NCC-1701) enterprise and a book of poetry by
Nichelle Nichols! Oh yeah! I do like Earl Grey.. sometimes.

>140 ChelleBearss: Sorry you're dragging, Valerie. Take a load off for a while. Coffee with Bailey's coming up. We just got some pastries in, too, if you're interested.

Here are the threads for Walklover (Debbi), my way better half, http://www.librarything.com/topic/129868, and seasonsoflove (Becca), my lovely and dad-tolerant daughter, http://www.librarything.com/topic/129674. They want to get our son on LT, but I'll leave that up to them. He seems like a mighty busy guy to me, as opposed to his goof-off father.

>141 mckait: Captain Jean Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart) used to always order "Earl Grey - hot!" from that wish-we-had-it machine on the ship that would make you any food or beverage you wanted. If my wife had met up with him before she met me and had hit it off, I would've had no chance. She gets that ga-ga look in her eye whenever his name comes up. We even have a Patrick Stewart action figure Christmas tree ornament.

I think the Enterprise plans and Lieutenant Ohuru's book of poetry and actually having been to a Star Trek convention qualifies you as a Trekkie, Kath. :-) We have a friend who goes to a Star Trek convention in full costume every year as a member of the bridge crew.

I've taken my kids to Comic Cons in the Chicago area in the past and we've had a blast. Lots of costumes at those, too.

Psst! Joe, >140 ChelleBearss: = Chelle, not Valerie. (*quietly slipping away*) ;)

Teeheee....we are even. :D

Hah! No doubt about it, Valerie! We can work to keep each other straightened out. :-)

>140 ChelleBearss: So sorry, Chelle! What was I thinking? Or not thinking. Coffee with Baileys and pastry on us. Plus you may call me by one of my many nicknames: Bonehead.

Wow Joe ... looks like you have a winner of a thread here! Great eats and drinks at this cafe!

Love your list of books. This will be my year to try Murakami, beginning with your recommendation of Kafka on the Shore lo these many months ago.

I'm afraid that this time last year I had the same intentions regarding The Grapes of Wrath which I never got to. Richard's comments on #126 pretty much sums up why I've avoided it. But I promise to do better by Murakami because you love him so.

>143 jolerie: Good to see you, Anne! Thanks for coming. Yes, I do love him (Murakami) so. Although once you read him you may wonder about my sanity. Oh, wait, you've probably already crossed that bridge. :-)

I'm chomping at the bit to read Ex Libris by Anne Fadiman, which you recommended to me, but I've got Cannery Row and Unbroken (from the library) in front of it. Soon!

The Grapes of Wrath is in my near future. I'm traveling one Steinbeck step at a time . . .

Oh, my goodness. I see that because of my inexperience I missed some posts along the way. Apologies to those I missed! What happens is you post when I'm typing away and I don't catch it later. I'll work on that.

Here's a stab at remedying that:

>34 FAMeulstee: Anita! Thanks for clearing that up. Got it - Frank loves books, but you're the LT chatterererer(er).

>62 kidzdoc: Darryl! Can't believe I missed you. No problem re skipping the broccoli bites. How about fried olives? They've been popular.

I'm very much looking forward to your reaction to 1Q84, whatever it may be.

>73 PaulCranswick: I can believe the idea of being a Yorkie can beat the reality of being a Yorkie, which is good, because I'm never going to be able to do better than the idea of it.

Here's an example of my idea of it:





Yes, the recipe is fine, and I hope you enjoyed our chef's interpretation of Yorkshire Pudding.

>101 cindysprocket: Cindy, I need some educating on Kasey Chambers. But with Mark also a fan, we made sure to have her on the jukebox.

I think that's everybody. Fingers crossed!

#146: Ex Libris is immensely readable, Joe - you could just read one essay a night. It is one of my all-time favorite books, so I really hope you enjoy the book when you get to it.

>148 alcottacre: I can't wait, Stasia. A book of essays about books - oh my. One of your all-time favorites is another major endorsement, so I'll make sure to read it soon.

I've got another book(!) going at night right now - Daughter of Smoke and Bone, an interesting fantasy that I think is YA - at least the protagonist is 17 years old. But soon . . .

Thanks for the coffee and pastry, you can call me Valerie if it includes free pastry! ;)

>Thanks, Valerie. More pastry? :-) Jeesh, sorry about that, Chelle.

*ngurmph* Not getting any traction either reading or writing today. I need some chili cheese fries, please. I'll have a Delerium Tremens too.

Glad to help, Richard. Can't tell you how satisfying it is to make people feel better with some good food and drink, and also maybe help them get some r. or w. traction.

The chef is ready at your discretion to supplement, and we have stocked up on D.T. after all the positive buzz. (Hmm, that last comment is subject to more than one interpretation, seems like - "Try Delerium Tremens - It Will Give You a Positive Buzz").

> 147: thanks for answering missed messages ;-)
I would like an Earl Grey (yes I LOVE Jean Luc Picard too!)

Freezing out here today .... a mug of mulled cider please, Joe?

I went to a Star Trek convention one year and had a blast. For anyone interested the Star Trek convention in Vegas this year is going to be held August 9 - 12.

>154 FAMeulstee: Earl Grey hot coming up, Anita. You'll want to ooh and ahh with Mrs. Walklover about Jean Luc. At least he's hair-challenged, like the proprietors of some of the finer cafes around.

>155 cameling: Oh my goodness, Caro, come in and warm up! You bet - I may have a mulled cider with you. Winter has finally arrived here by the lake after a surprisingly mild December.

Good for you on the Star Trek convention. I'm seeing a Venn diagram with those who love LT like crazy in one circle and those who love Star Trek like crazy in the overlapping one. What a combo!

Did you ever see the movie "Galaxy Quest"? Wonderful spoof of S.T. with Tim Allen and Sigorney Weaver and the incomparable Alan Rickman.

I loved Galaxy Quest! I'm not a Sigorney Weaver fan, but I forgave them casting her as Gwen DeMarco in this movie. Ooooh.... do you do movie nights outdoors at your cafe in the summer? This would be a great movie to screen.

Hey Joe. I just finished my first cup of tea (I sip it slowly till it's very cold in the end) and am ready for my second cup, as soon as I get back from a walk outside int the freezing cold with Coco. See you later!

>157 cameling: Movie nights outdoors in the summer is a great idea, Caro! There's a big field out back, so it should be easy. Now, waiting for summer to show up may be a lot harder . . .

Glad you loved Galaxy Quest! Me, too. We've seen it multiple times now.

>158 Smiler69: Slow-sipping is what cafes are for, Ilana. We'll be ready for you when you get back. Coco's welcome, too, unless she's too big to fit through the cafe door (wow, now I'm sure hoping Coco is an animal, and not your beloved sister).

Oooh, big Galaxy Quest fan here! Hilarious.
Can't decide if I want the Earl Grey (have an actual cuppa next to me right now) or the mulled cider, which sounds wonderful right now...

You can start in Spring, Joe ... serve mugs of hot chocolate (spiked with rum for adults, marshmallows for juniors) and hot meat pies (nobody's allowed to eat with a knife and fork .. Aussie rules for meat pie eating only!)

>160 scaifea: I know, Amber. How about both? We can quickly take back whichever you don't pick. And we're spreading the word on Galaxy Quest, post by post. :-)

>161 cameling: Good plan, Caro. Note to self: need to order lots of napkins for the Spring.

I am another Galaxy Quest fan! My hubby and I pull that movie out on a fairly regular basis.

Yes, the Cafe is up and cookin'! I appreciate the offer of a plaque on my stool but I don't want to cause any ripples over here. You know, you get a few drinks in some people and they start finger-pointing. "Why does he get a plaque?" "What about me?" Nope, I love the easy-going atmosphere you have going and I don't want to ruin it.

I also loved "Galaxy Quest"! I need to watch it again, it's been awhile.

Did someone say Delerium Tremens? Hmmmmmm....?

*Not to self ... make plans to visit Joe's Cafe in the Spring for an outdoor screening of ....Galaxy Quest*

How about an indoor screening (unless you're somewhere tropical) of Groundhog Day in Feb.? I finally got round to ordering a copy for us last week so we can watch it on the day - I've been meaning to do that for years.

Oh, it's been so long since I saw Galaxy Quest--I hadn't remembered Alan Rickman being in it, OR Tony Shalhoub. I'd attend a screening, Joe, with Earl Grey tea and something chocolate, please!

um, yeah, a cuppa Peet's Garuda and a piece of that apple pie w/ rum sauce. i'm cold to the bone. just gonna sit over here and warm up while i finish Master Georgie.

oooh, galaxy quest. by Grabthar's hammer, can we have *real* popcorn? anybody know where we can get a real popcorn popper like they had at the movies back in the day (i'm talking 50's here, folks)? hot chocolate with marshmallows and popcorn and the movie with the chompy crushy things. color me there.

LOVED Galaxy Quest! I find that I don't care for ST:TNG any more, though. I watched the episode where Picard goes home on BBC America tonight...him and his brother getting pissed after their childish battle in the vineyard...and thought ~meh~ it's okay.

I was deeply shocked at myself.

Great cafe! good service, friendly customers and great decaf :)

Joe, what a breath of fresh air is the Book Cafe. Starbucks eat your heart out - I'll get in an order for hot vanilla if you don't mind mate.

>163 alcottacre: Thanks, Stasia. This is one of the great things about LT - in my other life (yes, I know, hard to believe there is one) I know very few people who love Galaxy Quest (although I will say my family is filled with fans). Here at the cafe you see GQ (no, not the magazine) appreciators every time you look in a new direction. Terrific.

>164 msf59: See, and Mark's another one. I should've known - you manage to see way more good movies than I do, Mark. I take your point about the plaque; I'm not adverse to plaque-ing more of our places to sit, but it does seem contrary to the free flow of the cafe. So instead in your honor we'll have D.T. available at all hours.

>165 cameling: Great idea, Caro. It's really the perfect movie for the premiere of the cafe's outdoor movie series.

>166 scaifea: I love Groundhog Day, Amber! I've watched that one probably as many times as any movie I've seen. Really charming. It's going to take some thinking to figure out the indoor screening part, but here in Chicago you sure wouldn't want to try it outside in February!

>167 ronincats: Oh my, thank you for reminding me about Tony Shalhoub being in GQ, Roni! He was hilarious. And the leader of the alien good guys played the father in Veronica Mars, I can never remember his name. He now plays the head of a compassionate SWAT type team (is that an oxymoron?) in a Toronto-based show that my better half loves.

>168 mirrordrum: & 169 Thanks for coming, Ellie! Great to see you here!

A cuppa Peet's Garuda and a piece of our apple pie with rum sauce coming up. Thanks for the link for the java; it made it easier to get a hold of. Now you've got me wanting to try it - another positive side effect of working in the cafe.

Master Georgie looks ambitious and eye-opening. I look forward to hearing what you think of it when you're done.

Can we have real popcorn? By Grabthar's hammer, we will make it so! ("Make it so"? Am I mixing up the parody with its subject?) Actually, now that you've reminded me, I'm going to be saying "By Grabthar's Hammer!" all day. How can you not smile after saying that? The popcorn will take some research, but we're on it. Hot chocolate with marshmallows we've got covered. We can bring you that after your Peet's if you want it.

>170 richardderus: Yeah, you know, it's harder for me to watch ST:TNG now, too, Richard. I keep wanting to shoot Number One, and he seems like a perfectly decent fellow. Don't get me started on Wesley Crutcher - that poor actor got victimized by a potentially career-killing script. I'm happy to see him being very funny on Eureka.

I still could listen to Jean Luc read the phone book, I must say.

>171 LovingLit: Oh, I'm glad you like the decaf, Megan. Seems like for some reason it's tougher to find a really flavorful brand of decaf, kind of like alcohol-free beer, which my dad likes. We may check with Ellie on whether Peet's has a good decaf. Glad you're enjoying the cafe!

>172 PaulCranswick: Good to see you, Paul! Just hearing "mate" gives me a grin. I figure I'm going to hear a lot of that in Australia, right? Going to be a grin-filled holiday. Hot vanilla? We'll do it, but do you want it in anything? Is this a Yorkshire thing? Is this a Kuala Lumpur thing? I've never had anyone order a hot vanilla before.

OK, no one posted while I was typing all that. I'm getting better, right?

Cannery Row: I'm becoming really impressed. The Frankie chapter really got me, and I just got through Mack and the boys throwing a party for Doc. Unbelievable. He (Steinbeck) packs a lot in a small package in this one.

*shyly walks in after walking past several times and orders a mocha with whipped cream*

Although as a fellow Cannery Row fan, I should've ordered a beer milkshake...or maybe you haven't gotten to that part yet?

Sandy K

Beer milkshake?!?!?!?!!

Yep.

You really make me impatient to get to Cannery Row Joe. Mind you, I'm just a little halfway through Bel Canto and really enjoying it, but Steinbeck comes right after. Somehow I can't seem to read more than one book at a time these days. That would be because I spend all my 'reading' time right here on LT...

I'm ready for that cuppa now Joe... and oh yeah, if Mark won't take the plaque, I will. I have noooo trouble with having my own seat reserved and waiting for me any time I want it. ;-)

>175 sandykaypax: Hi, Sandy. Glad you stopped by! Mocha with whipped cream coming up. There's a nice table over by the window there.

Yes, I did indeed read the part about Doc and the beer milkshake. As my kids used to say, "Ewww!" We'll make you one here if you want it, but I sure don't want to watch you drink it. That was a very funny part of the book. I'd say more, but I'm trying to stay out of spoiler country. Enough to say his explanation was great. :-)

>176 mckait: Yes, not something we recommend ordering, Kath. But reading about it is a hoot.

There's that incoming mail while posting happening again. I'm learning.

>177 sandykaypax: Nicely said, Sandy. :-) I amplified on your yep in my post.

>178 Smiler69: I really liked Bel Canto, Ilana, so I think you should just go ahead and enjoy that for as long as it takes. Cannery Row will wait. But I think you'll enjoy it once you get to it. I sure am.

I'm the opposite regarding reading one book at a time, and it seems like I have been forever: I can't do it unless that's all I have. I can't resist the multiple pleasures.

Your cuppa is coming up, Ilana. No problem giving you your own reserved seat with a plaque. We just won't tell Mark.

Joe, it's weird with the multiple book thing, because several months ago, I couldn't handle just one book, because I got bored after a few pages and had to keep switching. My concentration and moods and all that tend to shift a whole lot, so it's full time work keeping up with myself. ;-)

I still don't know how to handle those posts you get while you type. Especially as I tend to go on quite a bit sometimes. I just get to them when I get to them and try not to worry about it. Sometimes I'll copy what I wrote in the text box and refresh the page first, just in case, but that's a lot of trouble to go through.

>181 Smiler69: My problem was I didn't realize those "posts while you type"'s were happening. I've learned to look back after I'm done - simple, but beyond my comprehension previously.

I've had a rhythm with the multiples for years now - a book like Cannery Row for the train to and from work, a book like Daughter of Smoke and Bone for at night, a graphic novel like Strangers in Paradise Pocket Volume 5 for spare moments at home, and for some nights when I need an easier read than the usual, a sports book or factoid book like The Book of Basketball: the NBA According to the Sports Guy for water closet meditations, and fun books, often for during TV time, like I Am Plastic, a cool book about designer toys my son gave me.

And that doesn't include magazines like Publishers Weekly. Lots of printed word in my life.

Pretty ridiculous, but I like it.

P.S. By the way, that Louder Than a Bomb documentary is on Oprah's OWN network tonight at 8 pm Central Daylight Time. Or, as YCA's British-born Executive Director says it, "Louder Than a Bum". My wife and I just enjoy listening to her talk. The documentary is highly recommended.

hey Joe! i'll have the Garuda, if you've got a pot going. scoot me down the cream, somebody, wouldja?

i'd forgotten about the beer milkshake in Cannery row. Doc Ricketts was my dad's hero. he wrote the then-classic Between Pacific tides. dad carried it with him everywhere and when we went on dawn trips to the tide pools at La Jolla and Laguna Beach, he always had it along. i still have his copy covered in plastic to protect it from the salty damp. :)

mmmmm. good coffee.

Bel Canto was one of my favorite books this year. listened to Anna Fields' narration. she knocked it out of the ball park. i think Stegner's Crossing to Safety would have to be another.

Master Georgie is very, very good. Bainbridge said you have to read it at least 3 times before you understand it. at least i don't feel like such a dolt as i would otherwise!

later on.

>184 mirrordrum: I dont think I could read anything Bainbridge wrote more than once....so I guess she will remain un-understood by me anyway :)

Glad you got hold of the cream, Ellie, and that you like the coffee. We'll be sure to keep the Garuda on hand for you.

How amazing to have that connection with Doc Ricketts via your dad! How amazing to go on dawn trips with him to the tide pools at La Jolla and Laguna Beach! How amazing to still have your dad's book! And I'm not really done gushing, but maybe I'll take a breath. Those must be terrific memories.

You know, at the beginning of Cannery Row, Steinbeck makes a point of saying, "The people, places and events in this book are, of course, fictions and fabrications." Then the book itself is all so real in tone and credibility. I have no sense of how much is fact, how much fiction. Do you?

The Log from the Sea of Cortez has some links to CR, and for me adds to the sense of it all being real. I feel like we could head to Monterey right now and find these guys, don't you?

I've got to read Crossing to Safety at some point. You're not the only esteemed reader to have recommended that one.

I can be such a nudnik sometimes, but your Bainbridge comment made me think, well, if I wrote a novel, I'd want everybody to read it at least 3 times, too. :-) Unfair, I know. I've never read her, but I've sure had others I've read where 3 times would have helped a lot. I think my mind still hasn't forgiven me for that old Stephen Hawking book.

I just read The Log from the Sea of Cortez for the first time last year and enjoyed it. Crossing to Safety is excellent, Joe, and I hope you get to it soon.

I will take a cuppa. I am cold at the moment. Whatever you have on hand is fine.

>185 LovingLit: chuckle well, this is only my second Bainbridge. i may read this one again as i'm nearly at the end and wanting to go back and see if i can fit some pieces together. i find her rather daunting, actually.

....you mean A Brief History of Time? I need to read that one three times....once just made me aware of how much I dont understand :)

>185 LovingLit: Megan, trying to figure out how to "un-understand" something has me twisted around enough that I think I'm just going to try to disremember we had this particular conversation. How about a pastry or a piece of pie?

>189 LovingLit: Yes, A Brief History of Time. I should have read it three times, but once wore me out.

>190 jnwelch: dis-understood? anti-understood? non-understood? Now I know there's a word for what I mean somewhere.....
oh well, Ill just take the pie then please :) any kind will do- so long as its not spicy or creamy of caffeinated (customers huh? they can be so picky!)

Not at all, Megan. We aims to please, and welcome special orders. I do remember being at a restaurant in Europe, gosh, sorry, drawing a blank on exactly where, and one of my kids wanting something a little different from what was on the menu. The waiter was not pleased, but said, I know you Americans do things this way. It was kind of an eye-opener for me, because, well, yes, that's what I'd grown up with.

Back to the GQ talk & the good guy alien leader - I always remember him as the photographer from Just Shoot Me - just different roles! And yes! Tony Shalhoub is amazing - we know him best in our house right now as Luigi in Cars (I'd blame it on the 3-year-old, but let's face it, that's a great couple of movies).

We're Monk fans, Amber, and Tony Shalhoub is unbelievably good in that role. Thank goodness my kids are too old for Cars, although I know my daughter had to watch it approx. a zillion times while babysitting.

Oh we're Monk fans too, but haven't watched it in ages. Talk about weird differences in roles, though - the Captain in Monk and his role in Silence of the Lambs. *shudders* And I really wasn't being facetious about Cars, especially the first one - it's pretty good. My favorite line: "Honey, we have too much surplus." *snork*

I like the line a lot, Amber, but I sure am happy to get it secondhand. :-)

Yes, Ted Levine - you're right, creepiest villain ever in SOTL, and Mr. Congeniality on Monk. We saw him on stage here in Sam Shepherd's Buried Child - definitely closer to the creepy side.

Movies got me thinking: we just saw Woody Allen's Midnight in Paris and loved it. Seems like it might appeal to an LT crowd with meet-ups with Hemingway, Gertrude Stein, the Fitzgeralds and so on. (Hemingway was molto funny).

Shalhoub was in MiB, too, and a riot! i first fell in love with him, though, in GQ. his character is the guy i'd want to be--if i were a guy. involved with an alien, maybe nahsomuch. "ohhhh, that is so not right." and you just can't go wrong with Rickman. perfect, as always.

I watched Midnight in Paris last year and absolutely loved it too, Joe. I wasn't sure what was going on at first, but once I twigged oh boy, I couldn't wait to see who else he'd meet. What a clever movie that was.

I'm actually considering buying the DVD because this is a movie i can see myself watching again.

My family watched "Midnight in Paris" for the second time over Christmas and loved it. You're right: it might be worth purchasing. Just delightful.

#184, Ellie, I think you've put me off Bainbridge. I have a copy of Master Georgie around here somewhere and intended to read it ..... one day. But the idea that I'd have to read the same book three times to "get" it is horrific! There are too many books waiting to be read out there for that!

Wow, the Cafe is hopping over here! And you look like you have things under control, Joe! I hope you are a better typist than me, it takes some time for those responses. LOL.

I hope to get to "Midnight in Paris" soon. I haven't been very impressed with much of Woody Allen's later work but everyone seems to like this one.

Did you say D.T's??? I am mighty thirsty.

I guess I am going to have to check out Midnight in Paris too.

//200 don't be put off by that comment, Anne. it's a very good, if very painful, book. one of her umpteen 'short-listed for the Booker' books. did you know they gave her a Booker for being short-listed so many times without ever actually winning it? posthumously, of course, iirc.

what might put one off is the coverage of the Crimean war. Bainbridge is not one to shrink from a sordid reality. i'm glad to read about it as i think we can use all possible reminders that war isn't a grand and glorious undertaking. also, so ignorant am i that i had never realized that the charge of the light brigade occurred during that ghastly conflict.

further, reading Master Georgie has informed my understanding of, and compassion for, Thursday Next's character and is going to send me back to read The Eyre affair again. i think in this case far better to read Fforde twice and Bainbridge once. i'm soooo not an intellectual.

//189--Joe and other Cannery row fans. Here's a piece on Ed Ricketts done in 2003 by NPR, if you're interested. it's entitled "Ed Ricketts and the 'Dream' of Cannery Row: The Legacy of Steinbeck's 'Doc' Endures in Monterey."

Wow The Cafe has already celebrated 200 posts only 5 days after its grand opening. An eclectic brew of Cannery Row, Bel Canto and...erm Beer Milkshakes.
Hot vanilla is a drink on offer here from Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf which is Starbuck's main local rival. Certainly not a Yorkshire thing Joe...I would be likely to get a Barnsley kiss if I requested such a girly thing anywhere north of Chesterfield.

Over 200 posts already. Welcome to the megathread club, Joe!

Of course Joe is going to be in the megathread club - he has food!

and beverages for to die. :)

Just popping in the say hi.

"hi!" :)

just popping in to say goodnight from the southeastern US. i'm wondering if the cook does chunky hashed browns with onions. i'm already contemplating dropping in for a late brekkie.

g'night.

>210 mirrordrum: "g'night"? ACK! g'mornin' from the same quadrant!

I really have to ask what was so fab about Bel Canto? I read it long ago and just don't remember it being 'all that and a bag of chips'. Please educate me.

Hey Joe! Just stopping by to say hi!! I saw your comment re Joe Pickett and C.J. Box. So far, personally I am not a fan, but my husband was off work due to having surgery on his foot and he took Mark's advice re C.J. Box and really enjoyed a number of his books. I quite like crime fiction myself...

(*rushes in, throws coat off and starts new pot of java*)

>198 mirrordrum: Yes, Tony S. was hilarious in MiB, Ellie. I grew up with pugs (looking forward to the movie "Dances with Pugs"), so we loved the tough pug in that movie, too. Yes, Tony S.'s romance with the multi-pendaged alien in GQ was sweet and beyond that I don't want to think about it too much. :-)

>199 cameling: I had the same thought about maybe buying the DVD of Midnight in Paris, Caro. There aren't many I feel that way about.

>200 NarratorLady: Glad you liked the movie and had that idea, too, Anne. Yes, three times just to understand a book seems excessive. Three times for pleasure, of course, is different. My entrancement with Pride and Prejudice comes to mind.

>201 msf59: D.T. on the bar when you're ready, Mark. Yeah, I know what you mean about Woody Allen's later films, although some I've liked a lot, like Vicky Christina Barcelona. This one (Midnight in Paris) is definitely worth seeing, especially for a movie buff and reader like you. I'm still chuckling about the Hemingway character, and there's a sweet charm to the movie.

When I lived in New York City many years ago I remember a line around the block when his somber "Interiors" opened. I suspect it's not quite such an occasion any more.

>202 alcottacre: Midnight in Paris might be a good break from studying, Stasia! :-)

>203 mirrordrum: & 204 Sounds like a lifetime achievement Booker for Beryl Bainbridge, Ellie. Interesting to hear about the connection with Jasper Fforde's The Eyre Affair. I had no clue about that when I read it.

Wow, thanks so much for the link to the Ed Ricketts NPR piece, Ellie! I'll read it with great interest. I'm supposed to be a working man, so I'll return to it a bit later. I just finished Cannery Row by the way, and loved it! I'll say more about that in another post.

>205 PaulCranswick: All right, Paul, we'll contact the folks at Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf and see whether they're willing to give us a clue as to how to properly make hot vanilla.

I would be likely to get a Barnsley kiss if I requested such a girly thing anywhere north of Chesterfield. OK, Paul, I understand "girly thing", but otherwise, what exactly are we talking about here? :-)

>206 richardderus: Thanks, Richard. I went to a play last night and got way behind on cafe matters. I'm trying to move fast here to catch up! If I screw up your order, just let me know.

>207 alcottacre: I know when we want to get folks where I work to attend a meeting, Stasia, we always supply food. Works like a charm.

>208 mirrordrum: Thanks to you, Ellie, I think we're stepping up a level on beverage quality. I need to try that Peet's Garuda!

>209 dianestm: Hi, Diane. Thanks for stopping by! I like your tower of books.

#211 I agree Dragonaria. I read Bel Canto with enjoyment but I feel like I missed something based upon the reviews on LT. What do you all say?

>210 mirrordrum: Yes, chunky hash browns with onions are a specialty here, Ellie, and a personal favorite. My grandma used to make them for me.

>211 dragonaria: Hi, dragonana. It's always hard to answer a question like, "What's so great about . . ." because the person asking obviously did have the same reaction I did. For me, I got totally caught up in Bel Canto's reality, bizarre as it was, and loved the role of music in bringing everyone together. I'd never read anything like it, and even now can travel back in memory to that strange but beautiful gathering.

>212 vancouverdeb: Hi, Deb. Yes, I have no doubt C.J. Box isn't for everyone. I was a bit surprised myself how much I like him. Blue Heaven is filled with implausibilities from my POV, but the story whistles along and the main character is compelling. Joe Pickett is a Jimmy Stewart kind of guy, honest, reliable and dedicated, and he deals effectively with a whole lot of people who aren't. We're not talking Julian Barnes here, or even Agatha Christie, but I like to travel with Joe and look forward to the next one.

I like crime fiction, too - anyone you recommend?

>213 jnwelch: Hi, Bbleil. Yes, I'd enjoy hearing others' reactions to Bel Canto, too. Maybe I'm off my rocker. Do you want anything to eat or drink while you're waiting?

I need a cuppa this morning to keep me awake, Joe. I have an orientation class in about an hour and after working all night, I am not looking forward to it.

Coming right up, Stasia! Just think of it as an early necessary step in your new adventure. Or is that too much to think about before you've had your cuppa? I'll try not to be too chipper - I've had mine!

OK, Cannery Row: I loved it! Should I just leave it at that? This has become my favorite of his overnight.

I love Doc's music, I love the poetry Doc quotes, Mack and the boys are hilarious, Frankie's a heartbreaker, and on and on. And then you have wonderful silly stuff like beer milkshakes and frogs in the night. And always the sea nearby, with its wild abundance of life and that life's frequent craftiness and casual viciousness in supplying the next meal. Fantastic. Thanks, Mark and Ilana, for organizing the Steinbeckathon. I'm really happy about finally having read this.

#217: Right now, it is too much to think about.

No problem. Coffee and peace and quiet, and we'll keep the chipperness to a minimum.

>218 jnwelch: AMEN! Can I get a witness for Steinbeck's genius?

Need finger food...typing all day...got something good? I'm wearing out on toasted panne pugliese with olive paste and Brie, and I can't get to the grocery store until tomorrow.

Yes, brother! Hallelujah!

Hmm, finger food, finger food. Quesadillas? Bruschetta? Guacomole and chips? Pita crisps? Otros platos? You've got a more sophisticated palate than mine, so we can jazz them up as desired.

Guacamole and chips! Perfect. Break's over in 5min, can I get it to go?

>124 jnwelch:, 125: Ouch! I like East of Eden. Not my favorite Steinbeck, but still a good solid read imho. ;-)
I'm looking forward to joining you and the rest of the group in CA later this month for Cannery Row. I'm so excited about the Steinbeckathon year. He's one of my favorite authors yet there are many of his little gems I haven't read yet.

Joe, I'll be joining in the Cafe camaraderie more frequently now that I've done a refrigerator cleanout. It's good to look in there to see the lonely mustard and pickle jars, but it's hard on meal preparation. ;-) All goodies got disposed of (some to the birds) except for the fudge which is in a neat little frozen package to be transported to CO next week when I visit my son. The only sweet treat he truly enjoys is peanut butter fudge.

P.S. Your fondness for 'Midnight in Paris' has cancelled out your disdain for East of Eden!

>223 richardderus: It's here waiting for you to take out, Richard. The chef put a smiley face on the bag (sorry - he's a happy guy and these things happen).

>224 Donna828: The Steinbeckathon has been a great idea from the get-go. I'll be there with you, Donna, on at least a few of them.

We (oops - that was the royal we, which I try to avoid) - my much better half cleaned out the refrigerator at our place this week, and it looks shiny-spectacular in there.

I'm glad my fondness for Midnight in Paris makes up for my myopicness re East of Eden. Unfortunately, to this day I get a bad feeling when I think of that book. But I really, really liked Midnight in Paris, I promise. :-)

211> I keep wondering that.. lol
I haven't read it and have no intention to.. it doesn't
call out to me at all..

Evening in Paris.. an old perfume ( cologne?) .. my grandma used to wear it..
I can still smell it, I think?

cuppa the usual, Joe, please, with some of grandma's hash browns and ask old smiley face in the kitchen just to put an egg over easy on top if he will. oooh, thanks. coffee smells wonderful. i love these thick white mugs. don't get them much anymore. you can wrap your fingers round them and get warm. hey, down there, don't bogart the cream. thanks! ahhhh! life is good.

finished Master Georgie. i don't regret reading it but it all comes to naught and i don't care if that's a spoiler. you can feel it from the first sentence, anyway. you just don't know quite how and i won't spoil that. as an antidote, i've started Gardam's Sidmouth letters and ordered Farewell, my lovely from the library and Adichie's Half of a yellow sun from Alibris.

i loved East of Eden, but then i read it so very long ago. maybe i wouldn't like it if i read it now.

must now turn attention to food. bites of potato and egg with sips of coffee. oh my lord. heaven.

>226 mckait: That's a new one on me, Kath. It always felt good to be around my grandma, but I'm pretty clueless when it comes to perfume.

>227 mirrordrum: I'll pass on your compliments to the chef, Ellie. Glad you're liking the mugs. Don't know what to make of Master Georgie, based on your comments. I'm sure it's well-written, but is it worth reading if all comes to naught? Could be.

I haven't read Gardam yet. I'm a sucker for our friend Raymond Chandler. I've heard nothing but good things here on LT about Half of a Yellow Sun. I look forward to hearing what you think.

I take your point on East of Eden (i.e. when you read it may affect how you like it). I might like it better now. Of course, we'll never know because I won't go near it. :-)

My lunch looks rather meager right now. I should be more of a customer at this cafe. I'm going to have what you're having.

I had the last few pieces of real bacon with a fried egg for lunch. Now I'm craving hash browns!

I have the poetry slam show set on the DVR. I missed the initial broadcast but in true Oprah fashion, it will be shown again in the wee hours of "sometime" this weekend.

Richard because of you, I now have to go out and buy olive paste. I have the brie. Never thought of putting it with olive paste.

>230 cindysprocket: My bad. Sorry.

I am trying too hard on the book. I'm done for the day, since what I was doing was useless. D.T. please, barkeep.

Did I hear you asking for finger food suggestions, Joe? garlic and parmesan chicken wings, Bon Chon Korean chicken wings, jalapeno mango chicken wings, southern fried chicken wings.

Crispy fried white bait (I could eat these by the bucketfull) with a garlic aioli or sweet chili sauce to dip them in.

Oh what about hollowed out cucumber cups stuffed with thinly sliced seared beef that had been marinated in lemon juice, evoo, garlic & parsley?

I'm getting hungry.... and I only have a sad looking tangerine on my desk. :-(

What is Crispy fried white bait???

>229 Donna828: We've got the hash browns if you want them, Donna.

Can't wait to hear what you think of the poetry slam show! I was just taking to my wife about the impact, in our experience, it has on folks. I get moved anew just thinking about it. You'll see what I mean. And Debbi mentioned it's going to be re-broadcast in the way you mentioned, so that's good.

>230 cindysprocket: Richard has that effect, doesn't he? And to be fair, I'm glad he does.

>231 richardderus: D.T. coming up, Richard. You're smart to take a break. No use beating your head against a wall - or your desk.

>232 cameling: Thanks, Caro. I can tell you're going to be a big help here on the creative cooking side. I'm with Kath (>233 mckait:), can you explain a little more about crispy fried white bait?

Yes, the cafe food is way better than what I've been looking at, including a Fiber One granola bar (don't ask). A tangerine actually would be an upgrade.

My snack was veggies dipped in tzatziki sauce, not gourmet but enjoyable anyway.
I could really go for a coffee if you have any Joe!

>235 ChelleBearss: You bet, Chelle - coming up! Those veggies sound pretty darn good.

Joe: You haven't read Gardam yet? Two words: Old Filth. Based on books we both love, I can almost guarantee you'll have found a new favorite author.

I think that in reading Bel Canto you have to be drawn into the premise from the beginning in order to appreciate the book. I loved every bit of it, it was like reading in a dream and I could practically hear music in the background. Anyone who finds themselves scratching their heads at page 25 and wondering "What's this all about?", should probably put it aside.

>237 NarratorLady: Thanks, Anne. OK, you convinced me on Old Filth. Onto the tbr it goes. This is always a tough tbr time of year for me, because a lot of books tend to find their way to me over the holidays.

it was like reading in a dream and I could practically hear music in the background - yes, exactly! That captures it for me, and I'm more comfortable in a dream state than a lot of people. (I can hear my wife saying, "Is he ever!") So I think you've probably identified a big reader divider for this one.

I see things are still hopping over here at Joe's. I am eagerly waiting to hear an explaination of a "Barnsley Kiss" from Paul, and I too wonder about "White bait" from Caro.

I would love an order of those Garlic and Parmesan chicken wings and maybe I could try one of those "D.T."'s that Mark and Richard so enjoy. Then I will settle here in the corner and spend some time evesdropping on everyone.

Hi Joe. I'm so glad you loved Cannery Row. I got my copy yesterday and started it last night. I'm loving it and don't think I'd have picked it up if not for your comments on the Steinbeckathon thread. So thanks for that!

I'm another big fan of Galaxy Quest and have seen it multiple times. I've got Midnight in Paris on hold at the library and should be getting it soon.

And I hope you get a chance to read Crossing to Safety sometime. That's my favorite book by Stegner.

The Cafe is still Red-Hot! Business is brisk, huh? I just ate dinner, so a pint of D.T., should fit the bill, unless RD finished them all. I have some serious competition.

Joe- Are you a fan of Marcus Sakey? I just finished his latest and it was pretty good.

#215 Do you have any beeritas? They're very tasty. ~Beth

#238: Seconding the recommendation of Old Filth, Joe. I just read it this past week. Very good stuff!

I will take some diet Pepsi and cheese quesadillas with a side of guacamole. I love guacamole but I am the only one in my family who does, so I do not indulge very often.

#213 Joe a "Barnsley Kiss" or "Glasgow Kiss" if your scottish is a headbutt!

Thanks all for the opinions on Bel Canto. Clearly I need to read it again, I just didn't get the music thing. I love music and, in fact, the reason I read the book in the first place was because of an article in Victoria magazine that went on and on about the music aspect.

By-the-bye, is coffee up yet? I could use a couple of cups.

>239 DeltaQueen50: Garlic and Parmesan chicken wings and a D.T. coming up, Judy. Glad you stopped by - eavesdroppers are welcome. We get Paul's explanation in >244 PaulCranswick:, which my son will love.

>240 phebj: Hi, Pat. Thanks! I'm still on a high from reading Cannery Row. So good!

Glad to have another GQ fan, and let me know what you think of Midnight in Paris. Yes, {Crossing to Safety is in my future. It helps to hear so many people like it. There's always a little, hmm is this going to be good or not?, with a new author.

>241 msf59: Hi, Mark. We really loaded up on D.T. after the popular response, so there's plenty. I may have one, too.

I've picked up a Marcus Sakey book at the store at least a dozen times and never can get myself to lift-off on it. I'll look again, but there seems to be an inertia problem.

>242 BBleil: You've got me there, Beth. What's a beerita? If it's a combo of beer and margarita, it scares me. :-)

>243 alcottacre: Good to hear you liked Old Filth, too, Stasia. This is such a good site for expanding horizons.

Diet Pepsi and cheese quesadillas with a side of guacamole coming up! I love guacamole. I may bring some with chips over where you are and join you for a while, if you can put up with me.

>244 PaulCranswick: Thanks, Paul. I have a feeling that's going to be a fun one to toss into conversation. Now, how about the significance of "north of Chesterfield"?

>245 dragonaria: Couple of cups of coffee coming up, dragonaria. Cream and sugar are on the table.

Yes, it seems like Bel Canto would have a special appeal for you with your music background. But it may just not be your cup of tea (or coffee) for reasons beyond description. If there's one thing I've learned on LT, it's that liking books isn't a linear projection. Why would I love Cannery Row and not want to go near East of Eden ever again? Hard to say. I hope you do like it, though, because music has a special role in it.

Hey Joe, you are welcome to join me at table any time!

Thanks, Stasia. Meet you over on the new thread!