Mark's Reading Place # 2: A Winter's Tale

I am enjoying a mild winter here in the Midwest, but I still like to look at winter scenes.

Currently Reading:



Audiobook:



Graphic:


Books Read So Far...

1) Habibi by Craig Thompson 3.8 stars (GN)
2) The Great Railway Bazaar by Paul Theroux 4 stars (audio)
3) House of Prayer No. 2: A Writer's Journey Home by Mark Richard 4.7 stars
4) The Two Deaths of Daniel Hayes by Marcus Sakey 3.5 stars (audio)
5) Lost in Shangri-La by Mitchell Zuckoff 4 stars (audio)
6) The Invisible Bridge by Julie Orringer 4.2 stars
7) The Shotgun Rule by Charlie Huston 3.8 stars

Oh, jeekers...I must be lost!

Beautiful photo, Mark. Love it.

Enjoy your day. I organized my mother's 75th birthday luncheon for today so that's what I'm doing today.

I love the picture up top. Winter is scarce around here and I love looking at winter scenes.

3) House of Prayer No. 2: A Writer's Journey Home by Mark Richard 4.7 stars

He was called a “special child”. In the South, this was a term used for mentally and physically challenged children. Born with bad hips and a slow demeanor, raised by an alcoholic, quick-tempered father, the boy’s chances in life looked mighty slim, destined to be another discarded outcast.
This astounding memoir follows this “special child”, growing up in rough-hewn Appalachia, subjected to torments from his peers, going through painful surgeries, to correct his deformed hips and finally landing him in adulthood, aimless and confused.
After stumbling through a series of jobs, like disc jockey, fishing trawler deckhand, private investigator and failed seminarian, to name just a few, he finally settled into a life of a writer. An amazing talent was born.
The book is told in the second person perspective, which is quite daring, somewhat challenging but very effective. For fans of Rick Bragg, this is especially recommended.
Do not just add this to your wish list, go out and find a copy…now!

*adds Mark Richard to wishlist out of spite*

Like the review!

The best birthday present ever....you discovered Mark Richard!

A whole mess of Thumbs....

;-}

Okay, Mark! How could you do this to me?

I read thread one today and came away with 6, yes 6, count them, six book bullets.

Sigh. And I thought we were friends...oh, and I took the D.A. quiz as well. I'm Bates, no surprise there.

Lovely photo - and I'm making a mental note of Mark Richard but not adding to the wishlist or the acquisitions list just yet as I'm on a January fast from book-acquiring!

Mark how did you know I was looking over my lists this morning looking for the next book. I reserved House of Prayer No. 2 at the library, even though I have 10 books sitting on the table waiting to be read.

Are you planning to have a new thread every week, Mark? At least it's easier with the new continuation feature. I love your winter scene. We're still waiting for winter here, too.

>5 msf59:: I don't have to go very far to find House of Prayer No. 2. It's waiting for me at the library. I reserved it after it appeared on the Wall Street Journal's Best NF list for 2011. As you know, I'm also a big fan of Rick Bragg and hard-luck growing up stories. Perhaps a hardscrabble life is a prerequisite for good writing!

Welcome to thread 2, guys! LT is been Red-Hot lately. Is this a sign of the year ahead or will it slowly dwindle?
I cannot say enough about House of Prayer No.2. Awesome book, right up there with All Over but the Shoutin'.

Jude- Good to see you, stranger. I've missed you. Yes, I added all of Mark Richard's books to my BM WL. He mentions the inspirations for many of his short stories, in the memoir. He is quite a find! Thanks for all the Thumbs! Is it your b'day?

Linda- Have a great day celebrating your Mom's birthday! Looks to be another nice day too!

Stasia- I rather look at lovely winter scenes, than walk through them. That's for sure.

RD- Thank you, sir, you spiteful old curmudgeon!

Not caught up of course after a couple of days away.. but wanted to drop a star..

Ok. I'll try again to keep up with Mr. Popularity! But I do have to go back to thread 1 and see what you thought of Habibi. Nice start to your reading year. I liked The Invisible Bridge and Lost in Shangri-La is on my teetering list.

Hi Mark. I actually had two of your new threads on my starred list but this was where all the action was. I think that happened to Suzanne last year too. Anyway, I put House of Prayer No. 2 on my WL when you first mentioned reading it. I'm so glad you loved it. And a big thumb from me on your review.

Gail- My deepest apologies. Like I told Valerie, I'm trying to only read crappy books, but I'm failing miserably. Hopefully our friendship is still intact, even if it has been damaged.
On the DA quiz, I was Robert. What an odd but charming quiz?

Genny- Nice to see you! Good luck with the January fast and be careful, navigating the threads can be very hazardous.

Tammy- This is a great book to start the year with and it also turned me on to another incredible writer. I can't wait to sample his other work.

Donna- I sure hope I don't have a thread a week. I'd have to quit my job and the DW will not allow that to happen.
Entertainment Weekly picked House of Prayer No. 2. as their favorite nonfiction title of '11, that's what inspired me to try it and now I'll attempt to inspire everyone else!
I still NEED to get to the 3rd Bragg memoir. Hopefully soon.

Kath- Good to see you! Glad you had a nice time with Amy!

No, Mark..i lie about Birthdays all the time...of course it is...same as Elvis, no less! (David Bowie???)

Don't get all jumpy about finding Charity...i found a copy for you...just have to wait until it gets here..then i'll send it to you...

;-P~~~~

Now, wait just a cotton-pickin' minute. I have enough trouble keeping up with one thread per person. But if you're going to have TWO "Thread #2s" I will have to throw up my hands and crawl in a hole.

Sorry guys, I must have accidentally posted 2 threads! I'm not sure how that happened. Please disregard and ignore the 1st one. Does anyone know if that thread can be removed?

Your thread (doesn't matter which one) is dangerous to my TBR health - it's been obese for a long time, but now it's tipping into the morbidly obese range. Just put House of Prayer No. 2 on the reserve list at library. It will fit right into my memoirs reading goal. Thanks for the first of many 'bullets' as Stasia calls them.

Adding House of Prayer No. 2 to the BlackHole. My local library does not have it though, so it will probably be a while before I get to it.

I'm jumping on the bandwagon of House of Prayer No. 2 - it sounds wonderful.

Lisa- Good to see you! I hope I can make a sizable dent into The Invisible Bridge today. And once again, great job on the Sea of Poppies review!

Pat- Thanks for the Thumb! It's a special book, I'm sure you'll enjoy it.

Jude- That's impressive company, Elvis and Bowie, but you're Number One with me. Hugs! I appreciate the offer of Charity. It sounds so good.

Terri- "Now, wait just a cotton-pickin' minute." It looks like I'm really starting to rile the troops. LOL. All apologies. The 2 Thread thing was a dumb mistake but I am running a Nonfiction Challenge Thread too. Stop on by!

Tina- This is another wonderful memoir. Have you read rick Bragg's yet?

Stasia- I sure hope your library can locate a copy for you, along with Habibi.

Luxx- Great to see you! Yes, add that one to the list, if you haven't already.

Here you are, Marky-Mark. I love the peaceful picture you have for your second thread.

I think you really have to put some effort into reading only crappy books this year, Mark! You are not helping those of us who are on the book buying austerity drive and you're certainly not helping my obese wish list lose weight.

Hi again, Mark. House of Prayer really does sound pretty wonderful. Thanks for that recommendation. In terms of books you are currently or will soon be reading, I personally enjoyed Sea of Poppies more than The Invisible Bridge, but they are both worthwhile reads.

I love the winter scene. It reminds me of years spent in the midwest, especially the three years I lived in Wisconsin. I like Seattle, but I miss driving rural roads past fields covered with snow.

I thought I was going crazy. I was making some headway on getting caught up on threads (HAH!) and I could have sworn I had already seen your second thread then this one pops up. OK Mark, it's hard enough keeping up w/o you posting threads two at a time;-)

House of Prayer looks good but there you go mentioning All Over but the Shoutin' again and here I am staring at it. Hmmm can I squeeze it in this month?

You know it's bad when I start cursing. (Don't I just wish "cotton-pickin" was the worst thing I ever said!)

Ok, Ok, I started Sea of Poppies last night. Fell to sleep. Will start again tonight if, I can make it after Downton Abbey. I put The Invisible Bridge and Lost in Shgri-La on my wishlist.
Did you like Delirium Nocturne?

Sorry Mark. I posted on the old thread not realizing that you had a new one for this week. You can read all of my news on the old thread. I will be spending the night watching Downton Abbey and finishing up my Christmas mailings. I made 225 copies of the letter and ran out. Can you believe that? Or is it a mail carrier's dream right now?

I have a copy of All Over But the Shoutin' at home as well. My book discussion group is reading a memoir of our choice. I choose Judith Jones Tenth Muse maybe I should dig out Rick Bragg instead. I'll think about it tonight.

Caro- Sorry, I seem half-assed when it comes to reading crappy books, but it's not easy. I'll try a little harder.

Ellen- Where in Wisconsin did you live? Of course, I've been up there many many times.

Bonnie- Sorry, I added 2 threads by mistake. Bad Mark. I'll have to ask Jim if he could delete the 1st one. Since, you have shoutin at hand, I would go with that one, but then you'll immediately want Bragg's next memoir, which is as good, if not better.

Terri- The profanity that flies around here! Shameful!

Cindy- I bought my 1st bottle of Delirium Nocturne, (little sister to Delirium Tremens) yesterday and will crack it open later on. It's got a nice dark color.

Benita- Welcome back to the fold. You were missed. You didn't miss much, just a lot of boring book gab...blah, blah, you know how it goes.
I did knock out the 1st season of DA when you were gone. LOVED IT! I'll have to make sure my DVR is set and ready to go, for tonight.



Ain't she cute?

Mark, I was in Oshkosh for almost three years. It wasn't the community for me (it was a job, though, when jobs in my chosen field were hard to come by) but there were things about it that I loved.

By the way, you seem to have two #2 threads going.....

I'm back and all ready for the big game tomorrow night. I probably won't be watching it. The big one for me was the K-State vs. Arkansas game - the Cotton Bowl - that was on Saturday. Of course my team lost so for me football is over for the year, even though I am proudly wearing my purple in Tuscaloosa. Purple is the colors of the other school - the one that is playing Alabama tomorrow night - so when I wear purple around here it is assumed that I am an LSU fan. Enjoy that beer. I have two dozen farm fresh eggs from home to eat. I fixed a beautiful omelet with goat cheese today and might do that tonight because it was so good the first time around.

I noticed that somebody on one of the other threads is reading White Rhino Hotel. How exciting. I like spreading the word on that trilogy. I was an evangelist for Night Circus while at home. Told my niece and my sister to read that one and even gave them my copy to read. Hope that they do so. I was really proud of my sister. She has started writing a column for the local weekly newspaper. It is titled "Grandma's Cupboard" and is about cooking and its associations in our lives. She is one of those home canners and her kitchen is always in use in the summer time. I gave her a new book on canning that she really appreciated, but to my surprise her weekly article this last week was about the book I gave to her daughter. It was a copy of the new Emily Post Etiquette. My niece, a freshman in college, was fascinated by it. She couldn't believe that there was a 721 page book on etiquette!

Mark, I gave my niece a copy of The Invention of Hugo Cabret yesterday for her 12th birthday. Got a text message from her this morning (from her Mum's phone) saying that she'd stayed up until nearly midnight finishing it! She was very excited to find out he'd written another one, too. :)

I'm winning the Best Aunt trophy this year. ;)

And now I have to scrounge up a copy of Wonderstruck for myself!

Dodging all the book bullets. I don't CARE how good the books are, I'm resisting. I have to read what I already own.

First day back at work today, new building. Still working out stuff (there are still builders fitting out some of the floors, and while we got rid of all the old crockery from the old building there's no new stuff bought for this building, so I'm having my tea out of a plastic cup this morning, yuk), but it's nice and shiny and new and I can see sky from my desk! (My minimum of natural light requirement without turning into a grumpy workmate is to be able to look up and see sky, and I can see plenty of sky.)

Benita, I'm now drooling over the idea of a goats cheese omelet. Sounds like heaven!

Hi Mark!
I think I am on the right thread here :}
I am wearing my blue-filtering glasses - but dang! I DID notice the 4.7 in black... then I had to peer over the top of the goggles... ah well. Nice review!

I want a goat's cheese omelet too! First, I have to go get some more goat's cheese as I see mine is all gone :P Shopping tomorrow for me. You, otoh, have a day off! Yay!

Love the picture up in #1 !

Hi Mark, red hot thread action this year so far - as you mentioned- trying my hardest to keep up and nearly managing.

>32 benitastrnad: Night Circus is our bookclub read this month so I get to get in on the LT talk on that one soon. Looking forward to seeing what all the fuss is about!

Mark - just dropping by to celebrate your second thread and to comment that the photo heading it up is one of the most splendid I've seen around the threads todate. Makes me wistful typing this with 32 degrees outside! Great review of the Mark Richard too and I will try to find that one for the Hitlist.

I just finished "Downton Abbey II". Terrific start. Off to bed, see you in the a.m.

Oh. Oops. I thought I had found your 2nd thread but find I'm already way behind on this one. Will have to come back to catch up another time.

Hope you've had a good night!

I followed Smiler onto the wrong second thread. : ) So, I'll say again how much I enjoy your picture up top. Just gorgeous!! Unfortunately, THIS 2nd thread prompted me to add to my brimming TBR collection. I should have stuck with the first one. LOL.

Hi Mark -- what a beautiful photo! Hope you have a very good week!

Hi Mark, I love your top picture, but am glad to hear that your winter has been mild so far.

I have PVR Downtown Abbey and plan to hold off from watching until I can binge on a bunch at one time. BTW, I took the quiz and am Anna Smithm, the head housemaid - so I guess I'll have to run around LT with my feather duster!

I have started Sea of Poppies and I am loving it already. Very glad there is a language key at the back of the book, I thought the lascars were hard to understand, but they were nothing compared to the strange brand of English spoken by the Pukka Sahibs!

Good heavens, Mark!! I've just finished off my first book of the year and reviewed it - The Siege and I'm onto The Betrayal - and here you are on your second thread!!! My goodness!

Do let me know how The Invisible Bridge goes. It looks very interesting to me - but also very long....

I hope you have a great day tomorrow and that the weather is fine! Ours is supposed to get sunny! That will be nice! :)

Good Morning Mark! I took the Downton Abbey quiz and, like Stasia, am Robert, Earl of Grantham. I passed the quiz along to Whitney. She was on duty last night on dorm, so we taped the season premiere and will probably watch it tonight.

Ah, did you catch the book mentioned on DA? Elizabeth and her German Garden. I've already read it but had I not I would certainly pick it up.

Once again folks, I apologize for the 2 Thread Snafu! What a pain! Let's let that 1st Thread pass away peacefully. Lessons learned.

I did not realize Downton Abbey was going to be a two-hour opener. It went past my bedtime. LOL. It was a strong beginning. Those early scenes with Bates and Anna, priceless. And that actress playing Mary...radiant. Edith...a farmhand?

Ellen- I like Wisconsin, I love the quiet and the outdoors but I like it for the summers and for fishing.

Benita- I also saw someone on another thread reading White Rhino Hotel. Hopefully, that person can coax a couple more readers into diving in. Hey, that's LT!

Tania (Best Aunt in the World)- That's wonderful! Is your niece a big reader? Now, you'll have to get her on Wonderstruck. Good luck getting back into the "work groove".

Claudia- Are those a new pair of blue-filtered glasses? This is a more stylish pair. You go girl! Good luck with your shopping day!

Megan- Thanks for catching up with me. I can't wait to hear your thoughts on The Night Circus. It really makes a nice Group Read too.

Paul- Glad you like the top photo. I stumbled upon that and knew it was a winner. It's still mild here, hanging in the 40s for the next couple days and then back to winter-like weather.

Ilana- Yes, I screwed up, but I'm glad you found the "real" me. How's DA coming?

Kim- Glad you navigated your way over here. LOL. It's great seeing you posting again.

Ann- Great to see you! I need to stop by and see what you've been reading.

Judy- I love Anna on DA. I was Robert. I thought I would be downstairs for sure! The 2nd season starts very well. Enjoy Sea of Poppies. it's amazing and hey maybe we'll do a G.R. of River of Smoke in a few months.

Deb- LT has been crazy, what can I say, I just follow the flow and respond to my many wonderful visitors. I'm sure you will inspire me to FINALLY pick up The Betrayal.

Brit- Hey, I'm Robert too! I wish we had his bucks! Just be prepared for a 2 hour premiere. I wasn't.

Lynda (Sharp-Eye)- Nice catch. Was the book good? Terrific episode, right?

I am working harder to avoid book bullets this year. I hope to
simply bring books in that call out to me, and hopefully avoid
all of the fad books that everyone is reading.. that seems to not work for me..
so.. I do hope to avoid blue text here and everywhere.

Good Morning to you!

Morning, Mark. Hope you enjoy the day. Another warm one, and again tomorrow!

Hi Mark, sadly, I've not finished anything yet this year, though I have a few books going. I'll probably finish my read aloud (Abel's Island by William Steig) first.

Hi,Mark. Started Sea of Poppies this morning. So far so good.

Mark, shall we all start posting banal comments on your thread so you can be the leader of the threader pack? ;-)

I had a couple appointments. Dentist & bonecracker. I hit the library too. I picked up the audio of The Warmth of Other Suns. This one is on a Playaway device. I've listened to 2 or 3 other books on this format and it wasn't bad. Sometimes the volume levels were off. Has anyone else tried this?
I also picked up a couple GNs, (Yah!), including the Green River Killer.

Kath- Yes, the mighty & dangerous blue bullets! You mentioned fad books and avoiding them but just remember The Night Circus fell into that category and still remains a Hot Title and you loved it. You just never know, that's what keeps things interesting around here.

Joe- I checked with 2 of my local libraries and both of their copies of "Shangi-La" were checked out. Bummer! I'll request it anyway and even if I finish the audio, I can still check out the photos later.

Anne- Thanks for the update.

Cindy- Good for you! It's such a great book. I picked up Green River Killer. I should be able to start it today.

Ellen- Let's leave the banal comments to the other threads. LOL. And only talk about really important stuff here. Actually, this as much as I can handle right now.

I was thinking that you were off today for the MLK holiday but just realized that's next Mon.

Enjoy these warm days, Mark. The channel 9 weather guys are talking about quite a bit of snow around late Wed/early Thurs (everyone else is saying just an inch or so). Plus, really cold next Sun or so. It'll be a nice day to sit inside and watch the Packers game, I think.

I've been meaning to read The Warmth of Other Suns so I will be curious to hear how it is.

Oddly enough, for me at least, only one of my first five books read this year is nonfiction. I'm sure I'll turn that number around but even so, it feels weird to me.

Banal comments eh? So how's the weather, Mark? How are you today? I am fine! There we go! I've got lots of banal comments in me .

I was bummed last night. I came back a day early from vacation just to be able to watch the new season of Downton Abby and then I missed it. On my local station Masterpiece Theater always starts at 9:00 p.m. so at 8:00 p.m. I went the four blocks to my Barnes & Noble to get a good cup of cappuccino to sip on while watching the two hour premier. When I got home and turned on the TV - Oh NOOOOOOO! (I think I actually wailed). Horrors! It was already started. I missed what happened to Bates, and everybody. I manged to watch the last hour, but now will have to find a way to see the first hour. Does anybody know if next week is also a two hour show? What I saw I loved. This is great storytelling. I loved Edith as a farmer. Does Mary have rocks in her head?

Where is this survey about Downton Abby?

There is some great reading going on here. My book discussion group will be reading Warmth of Other Suns later this year, so I have a print copy of it. A friend of mine has already listened to it and said it is very very good. She got it on download. I have never used Playaway's but some libraries have them because they are afraid to buy digital downloads. The big question for them is who owns the content? In essence, libraries are paying for access to the digital content. They don't own it, so the publisher or distributor can pull the plug on them if the library ever stops paying for that access. This whole mess is called Digital Rights Management or DRM. At least when a library owns a Playaway they own something. With other downloads they don't really own anything. Just the access to the thing. There is a big difference.

Your picture up top reminds me of Cormac McCarthy's Border Trilogy books. Minus the snow!

Ah yes. I got new blue-filtering glasses, Mark, cuz you said you didn't like the other ones. Glad you approve now 8-)

Winding up on The Elephant's Journey - sometimes ridiculous, sometimes funny, sometimes insightful, and sometimes adolescent. All by design, I'm sure. I'm starting to feel sorry for Solomon.

I live in EST zone Downton Abbey will be on our PBS at 3:00 a.m.. Check your PBS station.

For Downton Abbey fans- If you missed it lasted night or part of it, you can watch it online: Here

And here's the time (length) schedule: Episode 1, 6 & 7 (120 minutes); Episodes 2-5 (60 minutes)

Linda- I am looking forward to being off next Monday too, for MLK. I don't want to think about accumulating snow. A dusting is fine, the other not welcome. Warmth of Other Suns is another big boy, about 23 hours. I hope to start it early next week.

Deb- How are you? How's Canada? Got snow? LOL.

Benita- Sorry you had to wail! I was not prepared for it being 2 hours, as I watched it. Very good start to Season 2.

Megan- Nice observation. It's been a few years since I read The Border Trilogy but I believe there were some winter/snow moments in The Crossing. I recall one of the cowboys carrying a wolf through the snow. I need to get back to Cormac.

Claudia- Yes, I adore the new glasses. I really want to read The Elephant's Journey. I know it's short but I can't squeeze it in.

Cindy- Thanks!

Wow - I actually managed to catch up with your thread. Stopping to wave Hi now in case this is a one-time fluke. Looking forward to learning what you think of The Invisible Bridge. Hope you manage to find time to squeeze in The Elephant's Journey, a delightful story IMO.

Really, Mark, dearest! Oh sure, I can be banal, but I see you assumed that we of Vancouver aka Lotus Land of Canada have snow!! I should think not! Tis a rarity here - knock on wood.... A couple of few years ago we did get quite a bit of snow that actually stuck for a week or so. Dreadful!

BTW - I am fine! Canada's okay, and no, we don't have snow ;)

Have a great day Mark! Taking packages and goodies off to appreciative people. I'm sure you'll make many people's day.

BTW - I'm so excited! We are supposed to have the sun come out today, for real Mark! No rain yesterday, but very overcast.....

Okay, I'm approaching the halfway point in The invisible Bridge. It's a long one but the story is a good one. I'll be continuing the audio of Lost in Shangri-La. Another terrific true-life adventure book. And my graphic, Green River Killer begins with much promise.

Lori- Glad you caught up with me. Hope you come back.

Deb- Of course you don't get much snow. Duh. Keeping all these locations in order, is not easy. Hope you keep enjoying The Betrayal.

Have a good day everyone!

>52 msf59: I agree... and after the EL-IC experience, I was reminded that the Night Circus experience
is rare for me... I have a pile of must reads at my elbow and hopefully that and some rereading
that I am hoping to do will keep my new book purchases down this year..

I also have about 50 or so ebooks that are not even in my LT library!
So, avoidance seems to be the route for me this year.. I hope..

Good morning and Happy New Year Mark!

I always enjoy your threads, and I really like that picture at top.

Hi Mark, DA is coming along very nicely, thank you. I'm really glad I decided to with with the uncut iTunes version. Also, nice to be able to watch whenever I like. Watched part 1 of the new season and now will watch part 2 in just a few moments. So addictive!

did I star your new thread?!?
can't remember, so many threads so little time!

so here if I didn't :)

*waving* at Mark

Another sunny & mild day! They want to keep giving 'em to us, I will gladly take 'em. Back to normal on Thursday though, with snow possible. Oh, whatever!

Hi Kath- Yes, it sounds like you have plenty to keep you busy. I also try to read as much "OTS " books as I can. It's a losing battle...but a fun one!

Karen- Nice to see you! And Happy New Year to you too!

Ilana- There's a character in The Invisible Bridge that shares your first name, so whenever I see it in print, I think of you...ahhhhhh!
I loved the whole premiere of DA, I'm sure you will too!

Kara- Nice to see you! How's Abe the Vampire Hunter coming?

Stasia- Big Wave Back!

Mark, just heard that "far northeast Illinois" might get 5 inches of snow on Thurs. Oh well, looks like a return to mild weather for next week. Sure can't complain about this winter.

Too much going on, here...my aged brain cannot cope

....but, i have Divergent, Zone One, and IQ84...on order from Amazon...just because I can..(neener neener)

Sunny and Mild....will turn to rain, here, for the next two days

;-}

Darn it, I couldn't get out today! I'm glad you got to enjoy this remarkable weather, Mark. I'm getting out tomorrow for sure.

Unbroken is very good. Thank goodness I've finally gotten hold of it - I think that's the longest library wait I've ever head.

Ohhh I am so terribly behind, both with your thread and all this Downtown Abbey talk. I guess I should go find out what all the fuss is about and watch the first episode online somewhere.

Hi Mark!
Don't worry about getting to the Elephant's Journey right away. Books are very patient :)
There's lots of snow towards the end of the story - might make a good summer read when you are melting.

Linda- Hopefully we only get 1 or 2 inches! That's all I feel like dealing with at the moment. I did not realize the cold spell will be short-lived. Good news.

Jude- Good to see you, my friend. Those are some mighty fine titles. I was listening to the latest Bookrageous Podcast this morning and they had a nice discussion on Zone One and towards the end they had Whitehead join them for a little Q & A. Cool stuff.

Joe- Unbroken is such a good read. Enjoy! Have you read Seabiscuit? It's terrific. I don't even remember who I lent my copy of Unbroken to, but I don't have it.

Chelle- I just jumped on board with DA myself and flew through the 1st season. I think you can watch them online, from Masterpiece.

Claudia- Since, the Saramago is a shorty, I'll try squeezing it in, but not this month. The Invisible Bridge is very good but it's looooooong.

Hi, Mark! Found your second thread no. 2 and added House of Prayer No. 2 to my list of books I need to borrow from the county library.

Love the picture at the top of your thread!

Mark just stopping by to say hi mate and comment again on the lovely pastel colours in your main thread photo.

Top o' the Morning to you ,Mark! That's the bit o'Irish in me! We have sun today! :) Downtown Abbey? Is that a TV show? Have a great day, Mark.

Cee.. I am so glad that books are patient! That is one of their wonderful qualities :)
Some of mine have been very very patient!
Hi Mark!

Hey so I had a couple of sake bombs with Asahi beer tonight, Marky-Mark. Just when I got back to the hotel, I realized I should have taken some photos of the beer bottle and the sake cup for you.

>You're right about Unbroken, Mark. I just got through the phosphate island part, and now they're searching for a lost plane in the Green Hornet.

I haven't read Seabiscuit. I rode horses at a friend's farm as a kid, but the idea of reading about a horse hasn't appealed. However, you and other people have strongly recommended it, so maybe I should reconsider.

Enjoy the day! - sounds like winter plans to smack us one tomorrow.

Mark, is Green River Killer: A True Detective Story about the guy in the Seattle area --- i.e., is it based on that true crime spree (and I don't know the decade for that -- 70s? 80s?). If so, it gives me the creeps to even think about it. I'll be interested to read your reactions.

Another beauty today! 52, partly sunny. Wow. Back to reality tomorrow, with normal January weather, cold, wind, snow, oh boy!
I finished the audio of Lost in Shangri-La. This is a top-notch true adventure story. The writer is not in the same league as Hillenbrand or Sides, but he does a serviceable job.

Terri- Glad you found me! House of Prayer No. 2 is a Must-Read memoir.

Paul- Someone mentioned that the photo at the top reminded her of McCarthy's Border Trilogy and I might have to agree with her.

Deb- Downton Abbey is the talk of the town right now, with the 2nd season just starting. It's a terrific show.

Kath- Yes, our patient books, what would we do without them. Imagine if they were impatient books? Could you hear the wailing & howling? It would be ceaseless.

Caro- Thanks for checking in, from across the world. Please take a picture next time. Do they have "Asahi" Stateside?

Joe- Glad you are enjoying Unbroken. There is so much story here. It's mind-boggling. Try to squeeze in Seabiscuit. It's a hellava story too!

Ellen- I haven't read very far into Green River Killer but yes, the original case started in the late 70s and went through the 80s. This account is told through the eyes of the investigator... and the cool part is, the author is the son of this cop. So far, it is very well done.

Chilly and raining all day here...but not the freezing rain that was predicted...small blessing! Just a "couch and jammies" day for me...reading and hanging out with the cat.

I just came back from a well-needed and well-deserved massage. I feel like jello, but warm & fuzzy jello. And on the way there, I heard a Herbie Hancock classic, "Cantaloupe Island". It was from '64 I think. Here it is: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xfsnVYVd3iI
Freddie Hubbard on trumpet. Dude was amazing! And yes, I am also a jazz fan!

On today's podcast of Books on the Nightstand, both Ann & Michael were both raving about The Orphan Master’s Son. A new novel set in North Korea, with Kim Jong II as one of the characters. It sounds fantastic. If you have not tried BOTNS, check them out: HERE

Hi Jude!! Rain beats snow! We are supposed to get 3 to 5 inches of the dreaded white stuff tomorrow. Boo! I hope you enjoyed your couch and jammies" day!

That's what I need, Mark! A massage! Unfortunately I'm hooked on the woman in CT that cures all that ails me - and it's a long ride from here. I really should search out someplace closer. I'm sure they're all good!
Then - I want a "couch and jammies" day, reading and hanging out with the cat... like Jude.
I would probably kill for that! Well, maybe not exactly kill. :P
Also - maybe they should make books that wail and howl! We might be in less of a hurry to buy everything we see and want. ;-)
Well! This message was surely profound! Sorry... I think I am finally all chatted out.
BOOKS: I don't give a dang about horse racing, but I LOVED Seabiscuit. Hilllenbrand can make anything interesting...

glad you enjoyed your massage! I have an apt with the bone lady tomorrow, ready for a good crack! Wish it was a massage though!

Sorry to hear your area is getting a storm tomorrow. We are supposed to get slushy rain/snow, I'll be going into hibernation for a couple days I think :)

Mark, Cee and Chelle - not a big fan of massages to be honest as I am a little on the ticklish side and also because I had a bad experience at a family massage parlour in Krabi, Thailand whereby I received a full body aloe vera massage for after sun and was asked to remove my shorts..... I have resumed wearing underwear ever since! SWMBO loves massages however especially foot massages and she will regularly bribe her sister, the kids or Erni (my maid) to do the honours for RM10 (about $3).

Mark, funny you should mention The Orphan Master’s Son, because I came across this title via Good Reads this week and have been seriously considering making it my next "hot off the press" selection. I decided first to listen to Nothing to Envy: Ordinary Lives in North Korea as a kind of preparation, and also because it was a planned read whereas TOMS is not, obviously. May get the audio of that too if I like the narrator.

Beautiful weather in Sydney! Cool 23C, sunshine, nice breeze. Perfect for a run around the park at lunchtime. *wheeze* Now *I* feel like jelly, or at least my legs do, and definitely not in a warm & fuzzy way!

I'm behind on BOTNS, but they're always wonderful! I'd love to listen to them on my walk homewards, but left the blasted earphones at home. Will have to listen to the soothing noise of traffic on an 8 lane bridge instead, while cyclists whizz past me at any number of knots. (Honestly, is it so difficult to design a bridge to have one walking lane, and one bike lane, instead of this annoying mix of both that just peeves everyone off?)

Snow is on it's way! The weather report is saying it should be here this morning by 9am. 3 to 6 inches, with the possibility of more. Hey, it's mid Jan, I can't complain...to much.

Claudia- I do not know why it took me so long to get a massage. This is only my 2nd one in 2 years. My wife is a fan and gets them every few months. I need to get in the habit and it's not that expensive, if you go to one of these training places. 25-40 bucks, plus tip.
"maybe they should make books that wail and howl!" LOL. Could you imagine the racket?

Chelle- I saw my bonecracker on Monday. So I enjoyed a double whammy this week. Enjoy your day.

Paul- I loved the underwear story! Hopefully you maintained complete control. I'm more comfortable leaving my undies on. Ooh I wish I could get a foot massage for 3 bucks a shot.

Ilana- The Orphan Master’s Son sounds wonderful. They say his prose sings. I may have to add Nothing to Envy to the List.

Tania- I didn't know you were a runner. I was never a fan, even in the military, I'm a walker by nature. Enjoy your nice weather.

Brrr! I'd complain plenty if we got snow. No snow here, but the temps are about - hmm - F - err - 38-40 F. Brr Mark! You are so brave out in the snow and cold.

I picked up The Boy in The Suitcase yesterday, a new Scandicrime author, but that book will have to wait it's turn patiently!;)

Wailing books.. terrifying though..
Good luck with the snow....

We're getting some predictions of snow, too. I hope we get it! It's a bit more unusual in these parts, so I do enjoy it when it makes an appearance.

It's snowing here and I'm thrilled! Sorry it doesn't make for ideal conditions for you though Mark.

Nothing to Envy is proving very interesting. And I just sampled the audio of The Orphan Master's Son and it sounds great, so there's a good chance I'll be spending one of my credits on that soon. It's obviously very timely, but I've read over and over that it's a great novel in it's own right that it's almost a must for me now that I'll have read the narrative non-fiction story about the place!

Mark, I wonder if you're getting our storm that took us, well, by storm yesterday. We were expecting 1-3 inches ending by noon, but it snowed all day and we ended up with about 7 inches. Tuesday was sunny and in the 60s, so when the storm hit, it melted quick and then froze solid, and then snowed more on top of it. What a mess. It took me 2 1/2 hours to get both of my kids to school. So... stay warm and safe! Do you ever use anything like YakTrax?

Hi Mark, I started getting massages about 15 years ago and just loved the loose and wonderful feeling I am left with. Then my masseuse moved to Tampa (hate how Florida steals so many of our residents!) and I haven't found anyone who compares.

All this talk about snow is putting me off my feed...and i really have to cook tomorrow..i'm tired of cheese & crackers

;-}

It was a messy day today! We have about 2-3 inches right now but it's supposed to snow for a few more hours. And it got chilly too. 22 on the way home. Hey, I'm in my warm home right now, sipping tea and making the LT rounds.

I zipped through the audio of From the Dust Returned. I really want to give this a 2nd listen before I officially "count" it or review it. It's a quirky tale of a family of ghosts, told in lovely prose. It reminded me a lot of Gaiman and The graveyard Book. I have read very little Bradbury but was very impressed by his writing. Anyone else read this?

Deb- I've heard some good things about The Boy in The Suitcase, so I'll be watching for your thoughts on that one. Keep warm.

Hi Kath- How's the weather by you? It looks like we are going to be stuck in the 20s for the next few days.

Ellen- I will gladly share any snow we get, as a matter of fact, you can have it all.

Ilana- I think I will follow your lead on that one! I'll see if my library has the audio of Nothing to Envy and then I'll acquire a copy of The Orphan Master's Son, although I don't think I can fit it in until March. It's a crazy book time.

Anne- That was another good thing about Colorado (I lived in Limon for about a year), the snow doesn't stick around very long, even when it dumps several feet on you.
Snow & ice, not my favorite combination. Are YakTrax, like chains for your boots? We use them when necessary.

Bonnie- Sorry you couldn't find another masseuse. You should keep looking. My body, especially my back and shoulders, take a beating in the winter, so I should be getting a massage and visiting the chiro, every 3 to 4 weeks.

Jude- Cheese and crackers can get old. You freeze some of your meals too, right? Are you out of them, as well?

Mark, I loved. loved Nothing to Envy. Just sayin'.

The weather finally turned here as well. It has turned into a wonderful windy winter's day. The wind so seldom blows around here that I forget what it is like. Bracing is a good word. No snow here so I can enjoy the cold weather with no problem. If the weather is cooling off here, the semester is heating up and I am going to be one busy librarian next week, so will enjoy the quite time while I can.

Finally finished Sea of Poppies and put my comments on that group read thread. All of you who don't join in on group reads because you think you can't keep up - don't worry about it. Just read what you can and post anyway. That is the beauty of this thing. I finished this because I spent a full 24 hours in bed with a flu bug. First time in years I have had the flu. Now I am concentrating on reading Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy. Since I missed the movie in my area I don't have the pressure to finish this book, but want to do so anyway. I also have a good start on Tenth Muse. I have been wanting to read this one ever since I read Julia Child's memoir. Judith Jones was the woman who edited the Julia Child books and she, along with Julia, was quite a lover of French food.

I gave up on Sag Harbor and started listening to Oh the Glory of It All. I am not clear who Sean Wilsey is, or his place in San Francisco society but so far the memoir is pretty good.

Hello Mark! It has been several days since I stopped by and just thought I would take a gander.

Ah, Mark, these are the days you appreciate a nice warm home! Thanks to you and all mail carriers out in this mess for delivering!

Berly breezing through....

Oh, I'm not much of a runner! Only started last year, decided it was time to *finally* shed some kilos and get fit. There's a personal trainer who gets a group of us from work out a couple of lunchtimes a week, and that's been great. This year, we've moved offices to a wasteland with no park nearby, so we jog/run to the closest park, which is 1.2km away. And yesterday, I attempted to jog back after the training session. Gah. The pain! The pain!

I'd jog for a stretch, then walk, then run, etc. The jogging bits got shorter and shorter, and the walking bits got longer and longer...

I do like walking, got out of the habit with the kids (easier to bundle them in the car and make a quick getaway when they were young and fractious), trying to get back into the habit now. And they're happy to come along with me, especially if there's a stop at the bookshop (and/or the ice cream shop) on the way!

#102> Benita, I'm reading Smiley too! I've just started The Spy Who Came in from the Cold, and the movie "Tinker, Tailor" opens next week. I've got a bit of time to get the books read still!

Mark - hi mate...Tania The Spy Who Came in from the Cold is for me by far the best in the series.

Just peeling in to see what is happening in Mark-land

I called in sick (a very rare occurrence) but I felt like crap all day yesterday and was a virtual zombie last night. I picked a perfect day, (although I still feel twinges of guilt) , with the winter storm we got hit with. There's about 5-6 inches out there and frigid temps.
So plenty of rest & relaxation in store today. Hopefully, I'll be fit for tomorrow.

Bonnie- You are my favorite endorsement, so I requested it from the library.

Benita- Sorry about the flu. I hope you are feeling better. I don't think I have the flu, fingers crossed, just cold symptoms.
So, Sea of Poppies didn't impress you as much as me? Well, it happens. You made some valid points but those negatives were not enough to detract my pleasure. So, you won't be joining us on River of Smoke?
BTW- I know opinion on Sag Harbor is divided, but what turned you off?

Brit- You can take a gander, my friend, but keep your distance, I don't want to spread any nasty germs.

Claudia- I am looking out at that winter wonderland out there, and I am quite content to be in here today. I appreciate the kind thoughts.

Kim- Big wave to breezing Berly...!

Tania- I admire the fact that you are out there trying to get some exercise. I love it that work participates too! It's been quiet on your Thread and not many reviews. You taking a break?

Paul- I also loved The Spy Who Came in from the Cold, although it's been many many years. The Richard Burton film is excellent too. Maybe I should re-visit.

Morning Kath- Mark-land isn't a pretty place today. Hopefully, I'll be able to squeeze in chunks of reading, in between my rest periods.

Take care of yourself, Mark. I worked at home yesterday but am taking off today.

5) Lost in Shangri-La by Mitchell Zuckoff 4 stars

Cannibals, penis gourds and WACs, oh my! One afternoon in May 1945, a group of military sight-seers, board a transport plane, called the Gremlin Special, for a leisurely fly-over of a beautiful valley nicknamed Shangri-La, located on the island of Dutch New Guinea. There were 24 on board, a mix of officers and enlisted.
Suddenly the plane crashes into this paradise, killing all but three. WAC Corporal Margaret Hastings, Lieutenant John McCollom, and Sergeant Kenneth Decker. Badly injured, they try to find help, hacking their way through the wet dense jungle, finally ending up in the midst of a primitive tribe of flesh-eating warriors.
Yes, this sounds like a bad B-movie from the 50s, but it is a true adventure tale, told in an exciting, tense narrative. The story also focuses on the rescue mission, as a large group of pilots and paratroopers, attempt to pull the survivors out, under risky and terrifying conditions. If you like history, laced with action and colorful characters or are looking to explore narrative nonfiction, look no further.



Margaret Hastings and some of the tribesmen.

Excellent review, Mark. It's a remarkable story; the coming together of two previously separated cultures was part of what grabbed me. A lot of interviewing obviously underlay the way he was able to piece this together.

Glad you called in sick the other day - sounds like you needed it! Hope you feel better soon!

Must have. The whole intersection of cultures thing fascinates me.

Dozing and reading, reading and dozing! That's the schedule for today, other than an occasional LT foray.

Linda- I hope you are enjoying your day. Staying inside is a great idea.

Joe- Thank you, sir. I was surprised I had never heard of any of this story before. Fascinating stuff. This and Unbroken make a splendid double-feature.

Brit- I appreciate it. Actually today, is the day I called in. Hopefully, I get over it enough to go in tomorrow.

Jim- Very well said. Just the description of the tribe and their interesting mix of war and peace, is worthy in itself.

Oh, poor Mark... sorry to hear you are sick :(
That's rare for you. Hope it is short-lived.
A good chance to read and relax....

Hope you feel better Mark!! But glad you aren't out in a snow storm!

My local mail carrier just knocked on my door, so I ran to the door thinking it was the rest of my book order and he was standing there giggling. "Sorry miss, I'm at the wrong house. This is really for your neighbours" Boooooo!! Such a tease! lol

Feel better, Mark. Reading and dozing should be just the ticket!

Nice review of Lost in Shangri-La, Mark. Adding that one to my Wishlist in 3...2...

I find myself holding mixed feelings about Sea of Poppies. It wasn't a compelling read for me, but it was worth reading. It just wasn't as good as I thought it would be. I learned from it, but I didn't enjoy it. However, I will be joining you for the next book in the series. I think that there is much about these cultures that I don't know and historical fiction is a good way to learn.

Sag Harbor was just plain boring. I listened to two discs and it just wasn't grabbing me. It was all about teenage boys living by themselves in relative luxury during summers at the beach on Long Island. The only thing different about this than reading Martha Stewart Entertains is that these were Black Americans. For me luxury is luxury and the fact that the main characters were black didn't make it interesting. I know that I didn't read the whole thing, but there was nary an adult in the book, so why wasn't this book published as a YA novel? It may be nit picking but I am getting tired of these YA books that are published as adult novels and adult novels that are published as YA novels. I realize that the line has to be a bit fuzzy but this one was just a sticker and as such bugged me.

The day I took off for being sick was the first sick day I have taken in several years. I hope you enjoyed the day off quietly reading. After my twenty four hours in bed I spent a good eight hours knitting and reading. It was good to be quiet.

Mark, feel better. Speaking of 50's B movies. I think Lost Horizon was based on Shangri-La. I loved that movie as a young girl.

Good grief.....somehow I lost track and posted this on thread #1. but ....That's it---you've done it! My first true BB of 2012. I like Theroux and this Railway Bazaar looks like a winner!

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I hope you're feeling better soon, Mark. Lost in Shangri-La sounds fascinating!

That sound you just heard Mark was my teetering tower toppling over when I added Lost in Shangri-la. Another interesting NF by the sounds of it. Thumb!

Claudia- Thanks for the cute bear, always a moral booster. I have been reading but in smaller chunks. Haven't decided about tomorrow yet, maybe later this evening.

Chelle- Thanks! Those devilish mail-carriers! They really can be sneaky.

Katie- Dozing and reading seems to be helping, with a dollop of LT thrown in.

Nick- Thanks! If you like narrative nonfiction, this is a must.

Benita- Zone One was my first Whitehead novel and I was very impressed with his writing, so I might still give Sag Harbor a try at some point.
I am really enjoying The Invisible Bridge. This might be a book for you too!

Cindy- Yes, Shangri-La was lifted from the original book, Lost Horizon and actually the film version, was a big Hollywood production, directed by Frank Capra. I think it came out in the mid-30s. It's a terrific film.

Tina- Good to see you and glad I caught you with a blue bullet. Great Railway is very good and has inspired me to read more of Theroux work.

Hope you're feeling better, Mark. I'm enjoying this month's Steinbeckathon book. About halfway through, so far.

Looking forward to the 40s again on Monday.

Hope you're feeling better tonight, Mark, and can at least enjoy some rest!

If you had to get sick, you picked a good time to do it. I can't imagine having to slog around in the snow when I felt under the weather myself!

Hope you feel better soon..the Flu bug is going around here, as well...I'm glad I got my shopping done early in the week...with the snow & cold people will be flocking to the stores, to stock up on food... sneezing and coughing....not a pretty sight.

Hi Mark, hope you are taking care of yourself and will feel better soon.

I absolutely fell in love with Sea of Poppies and now that I am finished it, I am having a hard time getting absorbed into another book. I can't wait for the Group Read of River of Smoke.

I already have Lost in Shangri-La on my wishlist, I think from when Joe read it, but it's great to hear further endorsement. I hope to read both this and Unbroken for my non-fiction category of my 12 in 12 Challenge this year.

What a great review and wonderful sounding story, Mark! So sorry that you are feeling under the weather! I hope you will soon be feeling like your good old self! Relax and read lots of books, drink beer - I'm sure it's good for whatever ails you, watch tv - whatever works for you.

Gasp! We may have mixed precipitation over the next day or two - that is snow mixed with rain!! Argh! ;)
Personally I am lost in Russia in a political prison with Stalin at the helm.. it's cold and frightening with Betrayal. Comrade Markovich, I am loving the book! :)

I am feeling a little better, so unless I'm in sorry shape when I wake up, I'll probably go into work. They might be short-handed with the holiday on Monday. We will see.

Ellen & Bonnie- Thanks! I am so glad there is so much NNF to choose from, with more being released all the time. You both should enjoy this one.

Linda- I'm feeling somewhat better. Hopefully a good night sleep will do the rest. I won't be jumping into the Steinbeckathon until next month, but it has really been a hit!

Joanne- Great point! I just felt guilty that everyone else had to carry in these conditions. I hope you had a nice birthday.

Jude- I think I have a milder case of the flu, but it did knock me out. I hope to be up and running in the A.M.

Judy- Loved your SOP review! What a terrific read and yes we will do a G.R. of River of Smoke May or June. Toss me a reminder if I need it. Yes, those are 2 terrific NF titles. Enjoy!

Deb- Thanks! No taste for beer the past couple days. I did get a decent amount of reading in, but in smaller sessions. I can't wait to get to Betrayal. You are stoking those flames.

Hi Mark, wishing you a good night of restorative sleep. Too bad you have to work tomorrow but hopefully you can relax with your feet up and a good book on Sunday and Monday.

I saw your review of Lost in Shangri-La on your NNF thread and gave it a thumb there.

Hope you feel much better tomorrow.

Hi there, Young Man! I'm sorry to hear you're feeling off, but glad that whatever bug you have seems to be going away. We only got a few inches up here, and thankfully it wasn't too wet - especially since my snowblower decided to crap out so I had to shovel everything. Booooo! Hope it wasn't wet down by you either. And, at least it was a good day for you to stay inside and watch the flakes!

Looks like you've got a few good books going! Yes! I've gotten away from GNs the last month or so but hope to get back on that Graphic Train in the near future. I'm reading 2 chunksters right now so they're taking up a lot of my reading time.

Hope you're having a good evening!

Mate hope you're feeling much better with a good night's rest and a couple of hot toddies inside you. Lost in Shangri-La is a fascinating story very well reviewed.

Mark! Don't you dare go to work if you are not feeling 100%!
You sure don't need a relapse and more sick days next week - unless of course you need more time to read...
Truly, please use good judgement! Think of your health and nevermind worrying about staffing. They'll make out fine.

Mark, hope you're feeling better! Sick days aren't much fun, although I often get a lot of reading done on sick days. :)

I think you might still be looking at my 2011 thread; I've got five reviews on my 2012 thread so far, and am trying to write #6 right now... http://www.librarything.com/topic/128543

Good Morning Mark!!! Hope you are feeling better today.
I spent most of Thursday shoveling, first at home and then at work. We got about 5 inches. Friday wasn't to bad here and strangely the roads were clean and dry by midmorning. From The Dust Returned looks interesting. I havn't read Bradbury since highschool. Right now I'm waiting forHouse of Prayer to come from the library and reading Nightwoods, Charles Frazier's new one.

Hope you feel better today. My son called me last night.. he is sick..
he sounds dreadful. I told him to mix some bourban and honey and lemon~
drink it down and go to bed.. AFTER he makes some soup or something for
dinner.

Don't feel guilty about calling in.. you don't abuse it..
Dan works with a guy who works the system to the max and
again last night. 0F, called in and left Dan stuck on OT in the cold.
He did the same on Xmas this year. Dan got stuck working 2p-7am.
He often just doesn't report in or out and doesn't show. A perfect
example of the downside of a union.. protecting this behavior. It
infuriates me. I have composed a 3 part curse and I may just use it.

Hey, Mark. Hope you're feeling better, buddy.

I'm getting close to the end of Unbroken. How does Louie hang in there?

Drive by wave - and get well soons of course. I'm suffering from an evil recurring cold as well so big sympathy hugs from me.

Thumbs for your Shangri-La review!

Nice review of Lost in Shangri-La, Mark. I hope that you're feeling better today; stay warm!

I wanted to add my two cents worth regarding Paul Theroux and the Great Railway Bazaar. I read it for a book discussion group this last fall. The group had their choice of reading the original Great Railway Bazaar published in 1975 (the Vietnam War was still going on in that book) or they could read Ghost Train to the Eastern Star which is the update of the GRB. Ghost Train was published on the thirtieth anniversary of the publication of GRB. In Ghost Train, Theroux retraced his steps from the first trip. It turned out that some of us read both books and comparing the two made for a very interesting discussion. I read the original GRB and now I have Ghost Train on my TBR list. I want to read about what the author noticed as being different. Some of the people in the discussion noted that Theroux was not able to go to Vladivostok in GRB but in Ghost Train there was no problem with that. Likewise, in the first book the author traveled across Iran and couldn't in the second. Discussion was interesting.

When I get it read I will let you know what I think of the comparisons.

Mark, Hope you are feeling better today.

Getting caught up on your thread. Hope you are feeling better!

Well, winter is back, in all it's dreaded glory. Cold, snow & ice. And since I'm still suffering from this virus, it didn't make things any easier. We cancelled our plans for tonight, so I can zombie-out. I picked up "Midnight In Paris", so we'll watch that later. And I have the next 2 days off. Hallelujah!

On my breaks and during lunch today, I tried reading more of The Invisible Bridge, but I kept nodding off. The good thing is I have less than a 100 pages left. But what kept me warm today was the audio of The Warmth of Other suns. It's a wonderful book about the great black migration, which started in 1915 and ended in the early 70s. It reminds me of Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee, with the sheer amount of injustice and violence laid on these people. This is a big book and I only just started but this will be a Top Read of the year, mark my words.

Pat- Since I dozed off and on yesterday, I didn't sleep as well last night. Oh whatever, I survived.

Laura- Always good to see you! Our snow was of a lighter density but it still sucks walking through it and I was not expecting so many icy spots.
On the GN front, I've been enjoying Green River Killer, with 4 more waiting for me at the library.

Paul- You know I'm under the weather when I lose the taste for beer, although I might try one or 2 tonight, we'll see.

Claudia- I should have listened to you. On the way in, it was so dark and cold, I felt like pulling a U-turn and going back home. The one problem I would have had though, (and I didn't realize it), was you can't call in, before or after a holiday, or they can choose to not pay you for the holiday. Sucks right? I guess so many people have abused it over the years, that they had to enforce it.
I appreciate your concern.

Tania- Thanks so much for sending the link. I found you again. Yah!

Tammy- This is one time I didn't have to shovel, (see, being sick isn't all bad). My son took care of it, mostly with the snow-blower.
Looking forward to your thoughts on Nightwoods. Enjoy your weekend.

Kath- I agree, there's always got to be a few idiots that abuse the system. Of course, I've been in the P.O. for over 25 years, so I have seen it plenty. I hope you are enjoying your day.

Joe- I saw you gave Unbroken 5 big ones! Well, it deserved every one. I'm telling you, nonfiction is really kicking butt these past few years.

BekkaJo- A big wave to another of the inflicted! Thanks for dropping by!

Luxx & Darryl- Thanks! Much appreciated!

Benita- Thanks for the Theroux comments. I also have Ghost Train to the Eastern Star saved on audio. Maybe I'll get to it, in a few months. These make perfect audio listens, unless you are missing out on the photos. Ignorance is bliss, right?

Cindy & Laura- Thank you! I'm hoping to feel better tomorrow. I don't want to spend both my days off dragging ass!

I hope I got everybody! Now, I'll go visit for awhile, before I begin to fade...

Wow, sounds like a bit of grueling day for you Mark. I'm glad it's over and you have 2 days off. Hope you get a good night's sleep this evening.

Had to WL Lost in Shangri-La based on your review, sounds a good one!

Oh Mark! I'm so sorry that you had to go into work! I am very sorry that you had such a rough day. With my husbands work, he can only call in sick every three months without losing the first days pay of the second sick call in. So silly - but once again, I guess some people abused the system. It's so ridiculous isn't it! I sure hope that you have relaxing evening and couple of days off. Here's to feeling better!

Mark, Mark, Mark....
*heavy sigh*
"I should have listened to you."
How many times have I heard that one!?
I do understand though... it's the dang pay thing and it's just not fair. Thank all the jerks out there that caused this lack of employer's trust.

Well, like you say... you survived... but please take extra good care of yourself. We want you to feel better! 100% better!

Mark, I lurked on a bunch of threads yesterday, too zombied out myself to comment anywhere, including on your thread I'm afraid. ;-)

That being said, I'm sorry you're not feeling all that great. Hope you get plenty of rest during your time off and get all better real soon!

>112 msf59: Great review, Mark!

Sadly, The mills where he works as a millwright where Dan has worked, ( and USAir) have shut down or
downsized ever since the nightmare 80's when... *makes effort and leaves politic out of it *
so he is often the *new* guy and has to deal with being the one affected.

I am reading Curse of the Narrows, but I can't for the life of me remember who inspired it.
I'm really liking it so far.. I have read other books by this author and loved them .

Morning everyone! Thanks for your concerns. You guys are the best. I had a great night sleep, went to bed early and got up late, (for me anyway). It was exactly what I needed.

We did watch "Midnight in Paris". What a charming film and it was perfect for book lovers, since the lead character, Owen Wilson, visiting Paris with his snotty fiance, finds a portal and ends up in the hopping 20s, where Hemingway, the Fitzgeralds and a host of other artists, are all frolicking in the "Golden Age". I have not cared for most of Woody Allen's films in the past couple decades but this is a real stand-out!

Pat- Thanks! I survived though and I'm hoping today I see some major improvement.

Megan- I'm not sure if you read a lot of NF but there is so many incredible titles out there.

Deb- I probably call in twice a year. We get to "bank" our SL if we don't use it, which is nice. I probably have at least 8-10 months saved. It comes in handy, if you "really" need it. God forbid.

Claudia- "Mark, Mark, Mark....". Yes, I have heard this many times. LOL. Well, I will be taking it easy today. We have a child's birthday party to attend later this afternoon, but it's looking doubtful we'll go.
I love that we are reading/listening to the same book, The Warmth of Other Suns. This will be a winner.

Ilana- We were the zombie-twins yesterday! Yah! Well thanks and I hope you are feeling better too!

RD- Thank you sir!

Morning Kath- I guess the good thing is, Dan can still find work. I know, the older you get, the more difficult it is. Are you still job-hunting?

I am.. and it is hard when you are older..

How funny, we just watched "Midnight in Paris" Friday night, as well, and it's a charming, delightful movie. I am NOT a Woody Allen fan but I loved this one. It made me want to read Fitzgerald and Hemingway. And return to Paris. Especially that.

I hope you keep feeling better and better, Mark.

Hey Mark, sorry to hear you've been under the weather. Both the real weather and not feeling well! Our plane (coming from Chicago) was delayed when we left town on Thursday. We still got into Denver in time to have dinner with No. 1 Son and DIL. I took House of Prayer with me and brought it back untouched. I did make some headway on The Children's Blizzard with the little bit of time (mostly in airports and on the plane) I had for reading. My husband made good progress on Lost in Shangri-La. Another one I need to get to soon. Great review from you as always!

Enjoy the next two days off. Maybe the weather will be pleasant on Tuesday for you.

I'm glad you enjoyed Midnight in Paris. My dad and I saw it at the cinema last year and both really enjoyed it.

Well, I finished The Invisible Bridge. It's a big book and it felt like I was reading it forever. The good news is, it was worth it. I learned many things from this book, including Hungary's important role in World War 2, which I knew nothing about before starting this book.

I think I need a palate cleanser after this one, something fast & fun...maybe Charlie Huston?

Kath- Hope your day is going well.

Ellen- What made "Midnight in Paris" so much fun was the fact that I read both A Moveable Feast and The Paris Wife last year and everything was pretty fresh. Kathy Bates as Gertrude Stein and Adrian Brody as Dali. Priceless.

Donna- Good to see you! Glad you enjoyed your time with the LTers in Colorado. Sorry your reading suffered a little but knowing you, you will catch up. When do you head back?

Oh, Charlie Huston! I seem to have a mental block to finishing the Joe Pitt series. I don't think I want to say goodbye to Joe!!

I missed "Midnight in Paris" at the movies (although it's still on a few screens around Sydney), will have to get it out on DVD...

Whew ... I don't think I've remembered you taking this long to finish a book, Marky-Mark. Did you feel that it ran a little too long and plodded along most of the time?

"A nation that continues year after year to spend more money on military defense than on programs of social uplift is approaching spiritual death." - MLK '67

Morning everyone. I still haven't shaken this stubborn virus. I'm hoping another day of taking it easy will put me on the right track. Fingers crossed.
I did watch the film version of Moneyball. Excellent film. Kudos to the film-makers for adapting a book, that I did not think could be filmed. And just like the book (which is also terrific), you don't have to be a big baseball fan to enjoy it. If you are still searching for good NNF, the books of Michael Lewis fall into this category.

Tania- There's a fellow Charlie Huston fan! Yah! It really feels like I've neglected this guy but actually The Shotgun Rule, a stand-alone, is the only one I haven't read. He should have a book out soon. Yes, finish the Joe Pitt series. I think they started to run out of steam anyway.

Caro- Great to see you! It may have run a little long but it never was plodding or boring. I will still highly recommend it, especially for historical fiction fans.

Good morning, Mark. I agree with you about all the outstanding nonfiction we're seeing. I've got The Swerve by Stephen Greenblatt coming up after Ex Libris by Anne Fadiman, and I'm really looking forward to both of them.

Hi Mark! Hope you are relaxing and healing up, kick that bad bug!

I've finished and reviewed Stephen King's Under the Dome in my thread...post #249.

hope you kick this bug soon Mark!

>156 msf59:/166 Non fiction is as good as fiction in my book Mark/Joe. So many real stories are that fascinating, they wouldn't be believable as fiction!

I am feeling better. At least I'm a bit more active. I need to be ready for tomorrow. Another cold front is moving in later on Tuesday. It looks like it'll be back in the high teens from Wed on. Boo.

I did make it to the library and ended up with an armful of GNs, plus my copy of The Wayward Bus, for next month's Steinbeckathon. This was published in '47 and I think my copy is an original printing from that year.

Joe- I've heard good things about The Swerve. I'm sure you will inspire we to move it up the List. I read Ex Libris a couple years ago, shortly after joining LT.

Chelle- This one is really hanging on. I don't get sick often and when I do it's only a day or 2 at the most. Hopefully, I'm good for the rest of the year now.

RD- I will check it out sir! I have not read this one yet, for some reason...maybe I balked at it's massive girth.

Kara- Thanks! Me too!

Megan- Amen, sister!

I am only 103 messages behind. I am not even attempting to catch up. ;)

Hiya, Mark!

After I get done reading my memoirs the next up on my list is Warmth of Other Suns. This one is also for my book discussion group. I have heard good things about it and expect good things from it. A friend of mine listened to it and said that the recorded version was also very good. I tend to mistrust recorded versions of this type of work as I find it hard to go back and rethink and reread passages. I'll stick to the written form for this book for that reason. Interesting, that this book discussion group is starting its year out with the theme of "migration." We also have Worst Hard Time on the list, Cutting for Stone and Grapes of Wrath, along with some others that I can't remember off the top-of-my-head. I tried to get the group interested in Sea of Poppies due to the migration theme, but perhaps my lack of gushing enthusiasm for that book affected the outcome, as the decision was made to leave this one off the list.

Not to make you too jealous, but we have had to beautiful days in a row. Cool, but not cold. I took the opportunity to clean my car out to get ready for the road trip this coming week. I will be driving to Dallas for the winter library conference. With a clean trunk I can haul that many more books back!

I guess I better clear out my graphic novel wishlist, sounds like you could be adding a few to it over the next week or so!

Glad you're feeling better, Mark. As much as I love the snow, I know when the weather is frightful it has a very direct impact on your work. My feelings are crossed that the bug, at least, has gotten tired of residing in your system.

I read The Invisible Bridge last year and I enjoyed it, too. Like you, I felt like I learned from it and while it seemed long, I couldn't say what I thought she should have skipped or glossed over. It all mattered in the unfolding of the story.

edited to fix a really badly-written sentence

I'm sorry that you are still trying to kick that bug! As for snow, no thanks! We have an icing of it, and it won't melt for a few days , when it will rain. It makes for a slippery mush. My mail person actually put my mail through the slot today, instead of our community box. I'm not sure why - maybe someone did not know the route, but it was a nice surprise.

I hope you feel A1 soon! Ohh another cold front moving into your area Brrr!!!! 29 F is cold enough for me! I think in Celsius though - for us, it's about +1 to -4 - depending on the time of day.

My long-time LT pals know I'm a big charlie Huston fan, so for a quick change of pace, after finishing the sweeping World War II saga, I decided on the Shotgun Rule. It's the only Huston book I haven't read and this is book 11. It's a cool noirish mix of "Stand By Me", "Trainspotting", with a touch of "Mystic River". Not a bad blend, huh?
This is the 1st sentence:
"It's a bad house. Sketchy. They should know better than to go in. But if they were the kind of kids who knew better they wouldn't be here in the first place."

Stasia- Glad you found time to stop by! You are one busy gal.

Benita- I would love to attend your book discussion group. Those folks know how to pick some good titles. Sorry Sea of Poppies didn't work for you. I loved it. It might not have always been perfect but the highlights were amazing.
Actually it was very mild here today. Mid-40s but we return to Arctic temps tomorrow.

Judy- Yes all 4 GNs hold promise. Don't these make the perfect "tweener" books?

Ellen- I am feeling better. Energy levels are higher, which helps. Just need a good night sleep, to launch me in the morning.

Okay, off to watch D.A.

Oh! Dang this bug, Mark!
Can't you pass it on to someone else? (not me)
This is a nasty one :PPPPPP

I hope your day is an easy one tomorrow - but why do I suspect differently?

Take good care - early to bed - good luck!

Forgive me for just giving your thread a quick scan, Mark. I loved Midnight in Paris. I watched it twice.

Glad you're feeling better!

Hi Mark, yes The Invisible Bridge was long, but telling about the role of Hungary in WWII and wrapping it in an epic tale of how families lived through that nightmarish time is going to take a few pages. I'm glad you liked it Mark.

Hope you enjoyed Downtown Abbey and are feeling better. Hmmm - I'm thinking that I may need to read The Invisible Bridge , after " listening to you and Bonnie.

Anyway, Mark, I've finally written a review of The Betrayal by Helen Dunmore. It was excellent and I am trying to promote it to you.

BTW - your graphic novel looks most interesting!

DA was another good one! They pack a lot of stuff into that single hour. Mrs. Crawley quite the control freak. Thomas is still a worm. Poor Daisy. Nice moment for Lady Edith. Anna and Mr. Bates steal every shot they are in. Branson is becoming insufferable. Should of got the boot.

Anyone else see Sunday's episode?

Claudia- Of course I wouldn't want to pass this bug on to anyone else, but I think the worst is over. We have a mix of rain, snow and dropping temps today. Not a fun way to go back.

Joanne- Thanks for dropping by. Yes, "Midnight in Paris" is a little gem and it helps to be a book geek too.

Bonnie- Very well put. I'm trying to pull some thoughts together for my review. Can I just use yours?

Deb- If you like historical fiction and are interested in World War II Europe, The Invisible Bridge is a must read. I'll be over to check out your review.
And yes, Green River Killer is riveting stuff. But what a monster. They think he may have killed upwards of 70 women.

Hi Mark. Glad you're continuing to feel better. I'm slowing making my way up the hold list for the DVD of Midnight in Paris.

I tried The Invisible Bridge last year, I think, but ended up putting it aside. May have to give it another try.

We're supposed to get 5 to 10 inches of snow tomorrow which is alot for us and will be our first snow of the 2011-2012 winter.

Stay safe and warm out there!

Hi Mark!!! Glad you are feeling better!!!

We are getting whammied with the snow and wind today and there are a lot of crazy drivers out there. Around 10am I was driving my uncle home from an appointment. We got onto the highway and a lady in a red bug came speeding up on the left. She was going so fast she spun around and ended up in the median facing the opposite direction. Boy she was lucky she didn't crossover into oncoming traffic.

I finished Nightwoodsyesterday. Didn't think I was going to like it, but in the end I did. All of the books that have been mentioned the last few messages are already on my wish list. HA HA!!

Hope you are weathering the weather!!! :-}

We recorded DA & will be watching it this evening, presumably as a snowstorm moves in. I look forward to both. :-)

Sounds like its cold in your area! We're looking at 26 deg C today, might take the kids to the pool this afternoon if it gets that warm and splash about. While you're having snowstorms: weird.

new season of Justified starts tonight :)

I survived! I was afraid it would be icier out there, as the temps dropped and the mixed rain turned to flurries, but it wasn't terrible, just had to take it slow on a few stairs & sidewalks. Thankfully, I had the excellent The Warmth of Other Suns to keep me company. The one problem with the Playaway device, is I have no idea how far I am into it. It will count down the time of each chapter, that's it. Well, I know it's 23 hrs total, so I'm sure I have awhile yet.

Pat- Sounds like you are going to get hit with snowstorm! Good luck and be safe. Yes, give The Invisible Bridge another try. It is worth it.

Tammy- Yep, with the nasty weather, comes the idiot drivers. You got to keep your eyes peeled at all times. Glad you liked Nightwoods. I still have to get to Thirteen Moons, which I've been putting off for years.

Ellen- Let me know what you think of the latest DA and enjoy your snowstorm. That seems alien to me.

Megan- Hey, enjoy the poolside. We can only dream about it. Although, we are going to California next month. Yipee!

Kara- Thanks! I have one more episode of Season 2 to watch (hopefully 2night) and my DVR is all ready set. Looking forward to it.

Glad to hear it wasn't too bad out, Mark. I drove to work in snow, ice pellets, sleet, freezing rain, and rain. I just hope I can get my car open after it's been sitting out in the icy stuff all day.

Hi there Mark! We have some ice and some snow. I suspect that our mail person just stayed home today, rather than battle the elements;) Or maybe we just did not get any mail!

Good for you, out in that dreadful weather. I'm glad you had The Warmth of Other Sons but wow! 23 hours in total - that's a lot!

Take care and enjoy your evening !

Hi Mark! Glad you are feeling better and survived the weather. We have been enjoying a rare dusting of snow here in Portland (obviously Oregon, not Maine!). Shangri-La sounds interesting. Hugs.

I've posted my review of The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern in my thread... post #97.

Hi Mark, hope you are feeling better. Have a good night!

I finished the last episode of Season 2 of Justified. What a bloodbath. Margo Martindale did a great job. I will miss her. Season 3 starts tonight.

Linda- I don't think it bothered the vehicles. I opened mine with no trouble. Bundle up, it's going to be frigid for a few days.

Deb- Finally went by and read your fine review of The Betrayal. Sorry for the delay.

Kim- I hoped you enjoyed your "dusting". I haven't talked to my daughter today. I wonder if they got some down in Salem.

RD- Thanks, Sir! I will stop by and check it out!

Hi Mark, I'm glad you survived today and are presumably feeling better. I hope you won't mind me posting the following public message:

THIS IS VERY SCARY and NO JOKE!

PROTECT-IP is a bill that has been introduced in the Senate and the House and is moving quickly through Congress. It gives the government and corporations the ability to censor the net, in the name of protecting "creativity". The law would let the government or corporations censor entire sites-- they just have to convince a judge that the site is "dedicated to copyright infringement."

For more information, please watch the following video: http://vimeo.com/31100268 and don't hesitate to repost this message on your own thread to help increase awareness.

Thankfully I am a bit north of Ellen, while we are getting a bit more snow and tomorrow will be - gasp!!!! about 20 F!!! No one around here has block heaters or anything, so I hope it won't be too cold for the cars. I never thought I say - come back rain!!!! And it is supposed to back by Friday or Saturday.... the rain I mean!

Feeling better, Marky-Mark? I heard from the hubster that he had to drive through a blizzard in CT to get home from NY yesterday.

Ilana- Yes, I am feeling better, just in time for this arctic blast that's rolling in, later today. Brrrr....
Have you been keeping up with DA?
And thanks for the video, I'll have to watch it when I come home.

Deb- Well, keep warm my friend! I know you guys aren't used to those frigid temps.

Caro- I am nearly my old self. Have you found a copy of The Warmth of Other Suns? It's one I will continue to rave about. When are you going back home?

Good thinking to be listening to a sunny story while you are in the cold :)

Just sayin' hi! Oh, yeah, Invisible Bridge sounds good.

Stay warm, Mark! This is going to be a tough few days, then it's supposed to warm up again.

Snowing cats and dogs here. I love it, but I don't have to go out in it the way you do, Mark. They closed the university, even, so I get a snow day! After growing up in Florida, I'm pleased to be getting some of these now and then.

(((Mark))) --- I figure a virtual hug or two might help you stay warm.

I still love Downton Abbey.
Lady Mary = drop-dead gorgeous
Thomas = evil incarnate
Mrs. O'Brien = developing a soft spot?
the whole thing = wonderful and charming and exciting and fun

Hi Mark. It's midday and all my beautiful snow is being rained on. Pooh. And again: No Snow Day. Just buses on Snow Routes. My kids are not happy!

DA is certainly worthy of all the praise it gets. And yet I wonder why? It really isn't much different than any other period piece - except it is better! I think that the acting is really really good and all of the characters are individuals - each with their own story - that all come together and make this great quilt. Like some of the great books it has really captured me and I can't wait to see it each week. That's why it bugs me so much that I missed that first hour of the season opener.

Sea of Poppies was not a bad book. It just took too long to crank up into high gear. However, that is the way with epics. I also think that it is a worth-while read as the viewpoint of historical events from that part of the world is something that is lacking in the U. S. and needs to be remedied.

I also like the authors style. I did not care for the language but that is just a personal preference.

I think that it is the lead in to the next book and I most certainly will read the next book in the trilogy. This is a book that I have already recommended to others and in fact is a book that I discussed at a dinner party last weekend. So I am not sure that I didn't like it. It just wasn't a page turner and somehow I expected that.

I am now about fifty pages from the end of Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy and this one is a barn burner. It took a long time to get started but it is sure going now. Can't wait to find out what happens in the end. And of course, reading this one just added two more books to my list of TBR books.

205: It really isn't much different than any other period piece - except it is better! Yep. As you say, the acting is terrific and the characters are complex, developing and changing as the world around them wields its inevitable hand. I love your quilt metaphor (analogy?). And, as Hugh Bonneville is quoted as saying in the January 12, 2012 issue of The New Yorker, it's additionally appealing because it's not an adaptation. We don't know where the story will take us.

And besides: Maggie Smith.

Wow, LT is really hopping so far this year! Every starred thread has double digits or close to it. Does anyone work? LOL.

Kath- I had to laugh, about your comment up above. The Warmth of Other suns may sound sunny but it's far from it. She keeps piling up the racial injustices to an astounding level. Now that the 3 main characters have reached the North, (and one in the West), the injustices just don't stop. I just listened to the section discussing the 1919 Chicago Race Riot, (which I was not familiar with), where nearly 40 people were killed and it all started because a black boy swam into the "white" part of a beach off Lake Michigan. This book warms me up, but in different ways.

Lynda- I'm hoping to get to my Invisible Bridge review, later this evening, if I can still focus.

Joe- I'm packing soup tomorrow and Friday. That's a must. And yes, I'm glad it warms up again over the weekend.

Kim- Bye bye snow, huh? Hey, you saw some, right?

Benita- I've wondered about DA's vast popularity too! Is it a modern sensibility, that other English chamber dramas lack? Like Ellen pointed out, maybe's it's fresh script. The only thing I would like for it to do, is slow down sometimes. It is told in quick nuggets and at times I would like it to take it's time with these wonderful characters.
BTW- Have you tried watching the 1st episode off Masterpiece.com?

Ellen- Thanks for your DA comments! So you think Mrs. O' Brian is lightening up? I still don't trust her. The one character I'm a bit surprised with, is Mrs. Crawley. I always admired her drive but she's starting to be a stinker too.
That was also a good final scene with Mary and Matthew's fiance. Mary has definitely matured in these past 2 seasons.

Mark, the channel 7 guys (and woman) are predicting a huge snowfall Friday afternoon into early Saturday. Yikes!!

The coldest day of the year (Thurs) followed by the snowiest day of the year, possibly.

I'm still hoping for that warm-up next week though.

Very wise not to trust Mrs. O'Brian, Mark, but do you see any glimmer of redemption? :-)

Hmm, I don't think that we get Downtown Abbey here , so I've nothing to add to that. However, I suspect that my mailperson dislikes the weather even more than I do. On Monday, we got our mail through the slot . No mail now in two days in our Community Mailbox , which is most unusual , and others that use the same community mailbox as we do are saying the same thing. Either someone is new on our route - or our postperson decided not to deliver in the snow! Gasp, Mark! I'm expecting a parcel or two,so I miss it.

We get our warm up and rain on Friday or Saturday. I hope the mail arrives before next Monday! ;)

Gosh, I hardly have time to watch TV nowadays! I only just caught up on the Doctor Who Christmas special from last month! Reading, and nattering on LT, seems to take up all my spare time.

Although I did love the bits of DA I saw last year. And Homeland starts up next week, I'll try and catch some of that.

And I'm at work today (had yesterday off to be a parent as Don got called into a meeting at the other end of Sydney that he couldn't wriggle out of and it was too late to get the kids into vacation care for the day), and am feeling all wonky and sore throated. I think it's the dreaded tonsils again. So, while my body is at work, my brain is on LT. ;) Luckily it's not too busy either (I would have called in sick, but we're short staffed this month; I'll definitely call in sick if I get much worse though!).

I am almost of the opinion that the vast public out there who doesn't spend the extra money for HBO and other channels like it, is very hungry for good TV shows, with good acting, and good story lines and instead are being fed the pablum of reality TV. When they find good programing they flock to it in droves. I am not sure that the setting of the story would matter all that much. In-other-words, Downton Abby could be set in Bayswater, Texas and people would watch it if it were good. The fact that it is on PBS and that channel is free in most parts of the country makes it even more of an attraction. People know the reputation for PBS/BBC quality and they appreciate it. Look at the response twenty years ago to Ken Burns "Civil War." Who would have thought that millions would watch a documentary about a war that happened 130 years before? Look how the public responded to the mini-series of the 70's and 80's - Roots, Thorn Birds, Centennial, etc. These shows had millions of people watching and they are still powerful stories today. Look at the following that shows like "The Soprano's" and "Boardwalk Empire" are enjoying. This is good acting and story telling.

I also think that the historical events that surround the story are of interest. The first season started with the sinking of the Titanic and now WWI is changing everything. The ninteen teens were very interesting times when so much of the known world changed and the characters are forced to be changed by them as well. Even if Downton Abby jumps around a little the average person can get hooked on the lives of these characters with little introduction.

I finished Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy tonight and thought it was really good. The story is very cerebral and took a long time to get going, but the last fifty pages are really suspenseful.

The book discussion group to which I belong is not afraid to tackle lengthy or hard stuff, and we read from all genre's. They are a good bunch of people, but like so many book discussion groups we are sadly lacking in men. We don't even have one male member and its not because we don't try to attract men into the group. Our small group, there are only four of us who met regularly, has about come to the conclusion that men don't read, and if they do, they don't want to talk about what they read.

210: I hope the mail arrives before next Monday! ;)
LOL! I hope so, too, Deb!

Hi Mark, we finally got some snow here last week then it all melted over the weekend. Last need we had a really fierce wind storm with winds clocked at over 65mph. That did a lot of damage. Such an unusual weather year. Unless there's a big turn around, Buffalo will have an historic year for snow lack of snow. I think the total so far is less than 10 inches.

Hi Mark - Hope the weather doesn't get too bad for you later this week.

We adore Downton Abbey. The characters are all so complex. I'm so glad they are doing a season 3!

Not since "Upstairs, Downstairs" has PBS had this kind of domestic-dramedy smash hit.

I **love** Elizabeth McGovern.

PBS online doesn't work here in Canada and I don't have cable. Downtown Abbey is still a mystery to me!

Hope you are feeling 100% now Mark!

Hi Mark. I watched the latest episode of Dowton Abbey as soon as it became available to me yesterday, so yes, am indeed keeping up.

#203 Ellen, that was a great little resume of the main characters. I also really like Mr. Bates. His moral code is admirable but sometimes (often) is downright self-destructive. How strange. Thomas is the equivalent of Joffrey Baratheon in A Game of Thrones: an evil character you love to hate. I want to demolish them both, but without them there would certainly be a lot of piquant missing. As for O'Brian, I think she truly feels responsible for her actions and sincerely wants to protect her lady, but I don't know that she'll be able to avoid the dark side for long.

#205 Benita, you can catch the first hour on iTunes. I can only get PBS on cable because I'm in Quebec, so that's how I'm watching the show. It's costing me less to do it that way than pay for the extra channels.

#217 Chelle, see above!

#216> You do know they did a recent short series of "Upstairs, Downstairs"? Set in the 1930s, this time. (I barely remember the original series, but apparently one of the characters is common to both.) I did rather like it.

Wahhh...I don't want to go out there! It supposed to drop through the teens through the day and more snow on tap late tomorrow, they are talking 4 to 6.
Okay, I finished up The Shotgun Rule. Huston is a good crime writer but his gritty violence may not be for everyone. I am FINALLY getting to The Secret River. This has been an LT favorite since I joined. My 1st Grenville.

Linda- Let's hope the snowfall is not "huge". A few inches I can deal with...although I would rather not.

Deb- I hope your mail service resumes. If we don't like the weather, we still have to deliver it, no options.

Tania- Sorry you are feeling under the weather. Once Homeland comes out on DVD, I might give the show a try. I've heard nothing but good reports.

Benita- I appreciate all your thoughts on DA and watching quality TV. The added bonus is that DA is such a hit, there are so many top-notch shows that get no attention.

Bonnie- We are less than 10 inches so far too, which is amazing. I think you guys get more annual snowfall than we do, so that is amazing.

Hi Joanne- Glad to hear from another DA fan. Are you starting the new Justified season?

RD- It's nice to see PBS have a big hit. Hopefully it gives them more funding, for additional quality programs.

I gotta go! I'll be back later to finish responding...

Mark - my mother is a devotee of the period dramas such as Upstairs Downstairs. I bought her the complete collection on DVD a couple of years ago and I grew up on Sunday evenings with toasted teacakes, Mrs Bridges, Mr. Hudson, Rose and Ruby.
Other great British series dramas of that era well worth trying to track down would by The Forsyte Saga, The Brothers and The Onedin Line. Great stuff.

LOL Well.. I had hoped the sun was actually warm in the book..
One I am clearly unfamiliar with.. :P

It says I have Secret River.. hmmm. I do not remember reading it..
I hope I know where it is.. I will check when it gets light out :)
I hate to turn on a lamp... lol
I like the morning dark.

Stay warm

#212 Very well put, Benita! I, for one, am so tired of reality shows and really kind of disturbed that they've stayed around for so long.
The season Premiere of DA brought the whole family together and provided some great cOnversation re: WW I, a life in service and how people are capable of changing for the better as well as for the reverse.
It does move very quickly however and I need to book my book down and watch it closely.

ETA: We've been watching and enjoying McHale's Navy from the '60's. Yes, it's silly but compared to watching talent shows it's good fun. :o }

Hey Mark! Hope you only have a miniscule (relatively speaking) amount of snow to deal with.

With regard to DA - the thing I like best about it is the look of it. Lush and lovely. And does anyone love that dog as much as I do - the one who really lives there in real life? He just looks as if he's having the greatest time.

Mark, I keep wondering if you have actually read Winter's Tale?
I thought it was a wonderful read...

I haven't watched all of Season 2 of JUSTIFIED...because I have to wait for Season 3 (unless I want to buy it in dribs & drabs from Amazon)....but, Margo Martindale is a joy to behold, even when she's being truly nasty (remember her as Hilary Swank's character's mom in MILLION DOLLAR BABY?)....Anyway, she sounds like the women i grew up with/around..

Here's a link to an interview she did on Fresh Air/NPR:

http://www.npr.org/2011/12/27/144072642/margo-martindale-a-justified-backwoods-m...

;-}

Mark, I'm so sorry you have go out in all kinds of weather. We've had freezing rain all day, on top of the 4-10" of snow that had been distributed around the region yesterday, and our amazing mail carrier walked up to our porch a few hours ago. He didn't even have YakTrax on. Our newspaper didn't make it today, but our mail did!

Glad to hear that you are feeling better today, Mark! Try and stay warm!

It was 12 on the way home. Not a bad day. I was bundled up just right, (I know this when I don't sweat underneath the layers). The lack of deeper snow and ice sure helped.

I'm really enjoying the start of the Secret river. Her writing style grabbed me immediately. And I quickly understand the fuss made over this book. Hey, better late than...

Okay, where was I?

Chelle- Well, put DA on your To-do List! Maybe you can find it somewhere. I'm sure the 1st season is out on DVD.

Ilana- Thanks for your thoughts on DA. I love Bates too and his scenes with Anna are incredible. Thomas and Joffrey, huh? So far I don't see Thomas being that downright evil, that might be a bit extreme for this show. LOL. But Thomas is a definite worm!

Tania- I think I heard of them updating "Upstairs Downstairs". Wasn't it recently. BTW- I am already loving Grenville's tough and beautiful prose.

Paul- Thanks for the British drama suggestions. I've faintly heard of The Forsyte Saga but the others I am completely unfamiliar with. Once DA is over, I might give Upstairs Downstairs a shot.

Kath- I am glad we got that straightened out about The Warmth of Other suns. LOL. It's an amazing project, but wow is it big and sprawling.
The Secret River is more riveting historical fiction and it's just over 300 pages. Yah!
No, sadly I have still not read Winter's Tale but I recall it being another LT fav.

Lynda- I don't watch any reality shows or talent shows. I've never seen American Idol. And I don't feel like I am missing a thing.
Sadly, I watch DA alone. My wife was busy with something else when I 1st started it but now she hears me gushing so much about it, she might give it a try. My son won't touch it with a 10 foot pole.

Charlotte- Good to see you! We have very little snow right now but 3 to 6 tomorrow. Oh joy.

Jude- I plan on watching the premiere episode of Justified later tonight. And yes, Margo did a terrific job, her and her weirdo sons. Thanks for the interview I'll check it out later.

Ellen- Yes, I've been hearing about your snow. Wow. You like it though, right? Freezing rain sucks period. And your mailman made it too! Yah!

Stasia- Big Wave!

Loved, loved, loved The Secret River; just sayin'.

"Upstairs, Downstairs" screened over Christmas in Australia, which meant that it was probably done in 2011 at some stage. (Or maybe 2010, sometimes it takes too long for things to screen here! We haven't got season 2 of DA yet, but it must be showing up soon.)

Isn't the Forsythe Saga based on a series of books, by John Galsworthy (if the touchstone monkeys here are correct!).

And reality TV is much cheaper than scripted drama. It'll be around for some time to come, sadly.

Glad you're enjoying Grenville!

Stay warm etc, Mark. It's 2 degrees in my town right with a low of 9 below tonight. Then about 6 inches of snow tomorrow. I am working from home tomorrow, at least.

God bless mail carriers!! We got about 6 inches of blowing snow today and my mail carrier still brought me my two Louise Penny books!! yay! :)

6) The Invisible Bridge by Julie Orringer 4.2 stars

In 1937, Andras Levi, a Jewish architect student, leaves his small Hungarian home-town, for the bright lights of Paris. With war and the Nazis on the horizon, his life is about to be changed forever. This big sprawling novel, follows Andras, along with his family and friends as they try to survive in dangerous and harrowing times. There was much to learn from this book. I was not aware of Hungary’s role in WW II or how the Jews of that nation had been treated. It’s a good, if somewhat long, read and one I recommend if you like historical fiction or epic stories set around WW II Europe.

I had to stop and think - what happened to my week? I am so far behind with just about everyone.
Tuesday was Stress Day (Loki's surgery)
There is a big black hole in my brain labeled "yesterday"
And I spent most of the day in bed today (not feeling well)

So - I dunno. But I am here now!
Sounds like you are recovered and fairly lucky with the wintery weather in Chicago. Glad you liked Invisible Bridge - it's around here somewhere and I expect to get to it this year.

Stopping by to wave Hi - ***waves*** - and to say I am glad to see you are well on the mend from your cold and hope the weather improves for you. I think we have seen the worst of our winter storm out on the west coast now but road conditions tomorrow morning will be the true test! I haven't red The Invisible Bridge yet.... I am not a very good juggler of books I'm afraid, but I do look forward to making time to read it soon, and was happy to see your positive review for it.

Sorry for the tired slapdash review, (I know some think many of my reviews are...but whatever), I just needed to say a few words about a good book and there they are.

Bonnie- I was taken in by Grenville's writing, within a few paragraphs. I'm glad I finally got to this one.

Tania- I hope to get to the original Upstairs Downstairs at some point in the near future.

Linda- I wish I could work at home tomorrow! enjoy!

Chelle- God bless those mail-carriers!

Claudia- Glad you found me again! I never go very far away. Sorry to hear you were not feeling well. Bummer.

Laura- Nice to see you! We have a couple tough days to get through and then things warm up for a few days.

Too tired to comment, but I'm keeping up! :-)

Hi Mark: Be careful out there. Tom Skilling just predicted about 10 inches of snow over a fairly short period. Light and fluffy stuff without too much wind.

I like your short review of The Invisible Bridge --- it's a nice contradiction. :-)

The Secret River -- another one on my bedside shelf. It sounds like it's sucked you right in!

What 240 said: be careful out there. We'll be sure to have a mug of hot chocolate waiting for you when you get home from work.

quickly de-lurking to say hi!

The snow starts in a few hours. I hope it is a slow and fluffy fall. I'll be back tonight with my full report. Sounds exciting, huh?

BTW- I plan on starting the thread for Fantasy February over the weekend, so start getting your titles in order.

Ilana- I appreciate your visits, no matter what your condition is! Hugs.

Linda- WBBM, (which I listen to the most) is still saying 3-6. How about 2? I'm hoping the evening rush is not to bad. Fingers crossed.

Ellen- Yes, expect a wave of praise for The Secret River. Nothing like finding a new special author, right? I have my container of soup locked and loaded. I stop by a gas station on my route and heat that baby up.

Terri- Good to see you! I need to swing by and see what you're reading.

Snow? I wonder if it will be heading this way...

Be careful and I hope you have good patrons who keep your path clean!!

I picked upHouse of Prayer No. 2 from the library and started it last night.

I'm going to check if my library has Warmth of Other Suns when I get home next week, Marky- Mark. The reviews have been too tempting not to try and get hold of a copy.

Hi, Mark. We plan to travel to Australia this year, so I'm intrigued by your and Bonnie's enjoyment of The Secret River. I'll try to get to that sooner.

Hi Mark...Save some snow for me! I'll take all you don't want :)
Better day today. Off to town soon... anxiously awaiting your weather report lol

Fantasy February already? Yikes.

Hi Mark! I'll probably regret this, but I would dearly some of the snow and weather you're getting. It's 50F today. Just too hot for the end of January.

#235 The Invisible Bridge sounds like something I would like. I'll have to check it out.

Looks like they've backed off a bit on the snow forecasts.

Hi Mark, I'm getting my books together for Fantasy February! Looking forward to some escaptist reading.

Terrific review of The Invisible Bridge my friend. Chicago seems to be getting the brunt of the bad weather and then it fizzles out before it gets to us. Huh.

Hi Mark, I'd better jump in here before you morph into a new thread. Fantasy February? I am so in this time as I will be reading The Chronicles of Narnia for my C. S. Lewis class. Perfect!

Of course, of all days, they called mandatory O.T., so I just got home around 5:40 my time. The commute home was awful. Around 2pm, the snow really started sticking and by 3:30 I was plowing through 3 or 4 inches of fresh powder. The temps were still in the high teens but it's amazing how much I start to perspire, with the exertion, I guess. These postal vehicles are not designed for snow travel, so it's funny how much fish-tailing I did, back to the P.O.

Kath- I have no idea where this snow storm is heading. Take my word, you don't want it.

Tammy- My customers didn't have a chance to shovel much today. They weren't home from work or waiting for more to accumulate. My son did our driveway a few hours ago and it looks like nothing was done and it's still snowing.
Yah, you picked up House of Prayer No. 2. And.....?

Caro- I am very close to finishing The Warmth of Other Suns. No question this is a great read but she really drags out the ending. Come on, already, while I'm still above ground!

Joe- Congrats on going to Australia. It's a country both Sue and I always wanted to go. Will this be your 1st time?

Claudia- I hope you saw my weather report, a couple inches above. I wish I could give you all the snow. You are more than welcome to it.

One of these days I will get to The Invisible Bridge. It has been in the BlackHole far too long.

Karen- Nice to see you, stranger! Our winter has been exceptionally mild. One week ago, we had our 1st measurable snow-fall and this is our 2nd one. It's supposed to be back into the mid-30s on Sunday and sticking around for awhile. Not bad at all.

Linda- You would like the history of The Invisible Bridge. And she covers many different angles that I wasn't aware of. Glad you worked from home today, it was a nasty commute home. I was listening to the traffic reports and they were spouting 2 to 3 hour travel times on the expressways. Yikes, I'm glad I stay off those roads.

Judy- I am starting to compile a list for FF too. I have about 4-6 titles, I'd like to get to.

Bonnie- Your review of The Invisible Bridge was terrific! Mine was...adequate at best but thanks. I am LOVING Secret River!

Donna- Glad you'll be joining us on FF. I've never read C.S. Lewis. Surprised? Me too!
Are you enjoying The House of Prayer No. 2? I sure hope so. Hopefully, the 2nd person narrative is not giving you any trouble. I can see where that can get some getting used to.

Hi Mark, nice tv series recs.