Whisper1(Linda) Thread #3 of 2013

In honor of Valentine's Day, here is a poem by my favorite artist of words, Emily Dickinson:



HEART WE WILL FORGET HIM

Heart We Will forget him
Heart, we will forget him,
You and I, tonight!
You must forget the warmth he gave,
I will forget the light.
When you have done pray tell me,
Then I, my thoughts, will dim.
Haste! ‘lest while you’re lagging
I may remember him!
- Emily Dickinson

BOOK #22 NON ILLUSTRATED



Glimpses of the Devil by M.Scott Peck

This is a fascinating look at two cases of Demonic Possession as witnessed by psychiatrist M. Scott Peck.

Blending science and religion, Peck emphatically states that possession is real and also rare.

In both cases where he assisted with the exorcism, there was a definite time in the life of the client when they made a choice to allow evil to overtake them and there then was a choice that had to be made to accept love and light.

While the subject matter is dramatic, Peck did not embellish or shock the reader into belief.

The book is well written and logical in presentation.

Hi Linda, I love Emily Dickinson, Also. I always felt that she was so prophetic. Her poems are as valid now as they might have been then, and considering she was not one to get out much, where did all her amazing insight come from?

The book sounds frightening and interesting. If we can believe in possession, can we also believe in somebody like the Long Island Medium?

Love the Dickinson poem, Linda, though it's a bit melancholy for Valentine's Day, no?

Beautiful thoughts from a beautiful and thoughtful friend (and from Emily too). Thanks Linda...a visit to your thread always brightens my day, and now you've set me off to pull my well-worn volume of E.D. off the shelf where it has been resting untouched far too long. Stay warm this stormy weekend.

Who is "The Long Island Medium?

Rosalita, Dickinson did tend to be melancholy.

Tina, reading Emily Dickinson when the snow is falling is perfect!

Hi Linda! Congratulations on the new thread. I love the image of you reading Emily Dickinson while the snow is falling. How much are you supposed to get?

ETA: Because of the talk of Winnie-the-Pooh on your last thread, I decided to splurge and get a hardcover copy of The Complete Tales & Poems of Winnie-the-Pooh for my thingaversary. I'm looking forward to making my way through the book. It's huge!

Pat

Your recent book purchase sounds lovely!

Stopping by to say hi on your lovely new thread, Linda. I hope you are having a good day.

Stopping in to say hi! just before I head south to meet my newest grandson!

Hope you aren't too hard on Lilly. Can she help it if she is so popular?

Hi Linda, just popping by to say hi. I guess popularity runs in your family!

I hope you have a lovely time with your family.
I hope you are feeling better Cheli

Hi Roni, thanks for stopping by

Hi Linda,
That must have been scary not getting a response from Lilly when Will called her. I'm sure she didn't think it was so very naughty. She was just being sociable...

Our first sheltie never left the yard except once (to visit his sheltie girlfriends).
Loki is not to be trusted at all! He will chase after anything that catches his fancy (wildlife, joggers and walkers, etc) and is ALWAYS on a short lease. Short because we can't allow him enough rope to hang himself over a rock ledge in the side yard... which he almost suceeded in doing once. *heavy sigh*
If we could install an invisible fence, I believe we would. But you can't dig into granite.

Lovely valentine and poem in #1

Hi Cee

Your comparison of your first sheltie to Loki, reminds me that just like people, each dog is unique and different.

Years ago, we so loved our Bichon, Whisper, that we thought we could copy her by keeping one of the puppies from her litter. Her puppy Patches was loveable and wonderful, but very different from Whisper.

Will loves Lilly, but at 68, he really didn't want another dog. I was the one who insisted. Alas, he is responsible for Lilly when I'm at work. He loves Lilly, but I know he gets frustrated at times.

It is snowing heavily as I write. Are you getting a lot of snow tonight?

BOOK#23 (NON ILLUSTRATED)


Mortality by Christopher Hitchens

A big thanks to Deborah (Cariola) for recommended this book. Her excellent, beautifully written review, found here, cannot be replicated.

http://www.librarything.com/work/12326261/reviews/93742658

I'll simply say that this book packs a whallop. Hitchens looks death full in its face. With wit, humor, a tinge of sadness, and with honesty, Hitchens, an atheist, does not talk of the hope of an afterlife, but rather, focuses on the mental and physical realities that, like the black and white cover of his book, allow no room for grey.

Death is final, and for a highly intelligent man like Hitchens, the process is analyzed, compared and contrasted with other authors who tried to convey the thoughts and feelings of living while dying.

Highly recommended.

Hello Linda! I hope you are all snugged down in your pjs on this snowy morning! How much snow did you guys get? I think we got a couple inches. My Will was so excited when he woke to see it this morning!

We had about 3-4 inches of snow. It is a pretty snow, white and beautiful. With the backdrop of the cardinals at the feeder this morning, it brings joy!

BOOK #24 NON ILLUSTRATED


Waiting For Normal by Leslie Connor

Normal as defined by 12 year old Addie is something or someone you can count on.

This is a heart breaking story of a spunky, loving child who is forced to take care of herself. As she notes, her mother is either all the way or not any way. It is an all or nothing lifestyle and too soon, at a very young age, Addie Schmeeter learned that increasingly the parenting style of her mother is nothing.

Having multiple children that she cannot raise, self centered and emotionally abusive, Addie's mother flies under the radar of the social services. When Dwight, Addie's step father, delivers her mother and her to a beat up camper/trailer, located in an underpass, Addie tries to make the best of a horrible situation.

Dwight loves Addie, but simply cannot legally take her with him and Addie's two step sisters. Moving away, Dwight worries about Addie and does the best he can to help her long distance. When Addie visits her step father and siblings, in her heart she longs for their normalcy.

Leaving Addie alone for nights, then weeks alone, with little or no food, her sociopathic mother cares little for her welfare. Afraid to let others know about her mother, Addie tries to make the best of a terrible situation.

It takes a dire situation to bring the social services on board.

While difficult to read, this is a book worth the time and effort. Unfortunately, all too many young children in our society are very much like Addie. Alone, afraid and living in dangerous situations, these children develop a strong coping mechanism to survive.

Five Stars

#27: Great review as usual, lovey. I will have to see if my local library has a copy of that one. Thanks.

Good morning Linda, I am so happy to see that Will was able to find Lilly :) I am sure it was very frustrating for him when she didn't respond to him. However, I know what it is like to be the people who took her in. I am a sucker for animals to say the very least about myself and I would personally have taken her in and made sure she was warm okay then started looking for her family. Being on Will's side of the situation though it is very frustrating and scary! Been on both sides of that one. Luckily my Angel is so good and doesn't go anywhere unless she is with her mommy or one of our trusted neighbors my parents or the neighbors next to them who help me out on occasion when I am at work and they come up to let her out for me. Luckily we all live on the same side of the roadway and she knows she is allowed in all 3 yards, but unless called she doesn't leave my yard. Of course she is 8 years old and well mannered now. When she was younger she would sneak to the neighbors but never really went any farther. I have been lucky with her, but some of my dogs in the past have been dosies when it comes to running off..

I am also so glad to hear your neck is doing well ! Hugs dear Linda!!

Morning Linda- Hope the storm didn't hit you to bad! Fingers crossed. I have still not read Hitchens. I have to sample this guy. Waiting for Normal sounds terrific. Enjoy your Sunday.

Hi Linda, thank you for posting the beautiful pic on my thread :). I am still recovering from pneumonia, so it will take me a little while to catch up with everyone. However, I also hope the storm didn't hit you to hard and wish you a lovely remaining Sunday :) .

Arrrrgh! You got me with a book bullet.

*falls over*

Quick! Call the paramedics for Morphy!!

Jim. I think our book bullets are soft and do not harm physically, but financially, that is a different story.

Thanks for visiting here. And, a big thanks or all the work you do behind the scenes to make this group happen, including your welcoming message to new members.

Morphy. Which book hit you with the bullet?

Hi Bianca. I'm sorry you are still wrestling with the devil of illness. I send a warm cup of tea, a soft blanket, and a good book.

Mark, Lately, I'm finding a lot of wonderful books under the recommendations on Goodreads. We had a lot snow and cold wind, but did not get the storm that New England did.

Hi Monica. I think of you often. I hope you are warm and comfy tonight.

Stasia, Waiting for Normal is a tear jerker. I think you will admire the character and fortitude of Addie.

Waiting for Normal got added to my LT Recommended collection.

Thanks for letting me know Morphy. Waiting for Normal is worth the read.

BOOK #25

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

The winner of the 2013 Newbery medal is a delightful tale with a host of wonderful animal characters. Based on a real life situation wherein a silverback gorialla lived in captivity at a mall for 27 years until rescued and now residing in the Atlanta Zoo.

Ivan, a silverback gorilla whose billboard photo, on I-95 shows a snarly, open mouthed animal, co advertised with Stella the elephant who entertain at the Exit 8 Big Top Mall.

The mall where Stella and Ivan live has fallen on hard times. No longer a viable attraction, the owner Mack is moody and out of sorts. To bring life to the attractions, Mack purchases Ruby, a baby elephant who bonds with Ivan.

When Stella dies, Ivan makes the promise to save Ruby from a life of boredom and chains.

This is a lovely tale, infused with political correctness of saving animals in captivity and providing safe and natural abodes.

The story is sprinkled with the humor of Bob, a tiny, scrawny homeless dog. There are some laugh out loud passages in relation to Ivan not wanting to act as stupid as "a chimp", and there are engaging communications between Julia, the daughter of the custodian, and Ivan as together they discover the love of art.

But, the story fell flat for me. I liked it, but it didn't grab and take hold, nor did it softly endear.

Worth the read, but worth the Newbery medal? I'm not sure.

>28 Whisper1: Nicely put, Linda. As you know, I felt much the same way, and it's rather nice to know it wasn't just me (I felt so odd about my review after reading the raves below it and seeing the high star rating the work has on LT...).

Linda, you are not the only person who is doubting its Newbery-worthiness. I've seen several readers who are surprised it won.

Hi Mary and Lori.

The One and Only Ivan was delightful, charming and likeable. BUT, not a YA at the top of the list for me.

>28 Whisper1: Thumbs-upped and "like"d the review, Linda, though I admit there isn't any slightest possibility I'll ever read the book.

Linda, I agree with your review of The One and Only Ivan it was heartwarming but not sure it should have won the Newbery. I have just started Splendors and Gloom so far it's good, I'll let you know what I think.

I did just finish Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend and it was very good. A little scary as I have two autistic boys and I could especially see my oldest being taken advantage of by an adult when he was a younger. He was very trusting of adults and especially his teachers but thankfully he had a wonderful support group.

Thanks Richard! As always, you are a dear soul.

Bette, Thanks for stopping by. Mark highly recommended Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend and I was able to obtain a copy from my local library. It is next on my reading list.

Support groups make a difference, and your sons are very fortunate to have you for their mom.

I agree with you about The One and Only Ivan - an okay read, but I'm not convinced that there isn't a better book out there from last year for the award.
Have you read The Graveyard Book yet? Now *that* one gets 10/10 from me - definitely worthy of the Newbery medal.

I'm glad that you also liked Mortality, Linda. It's already high on my wish list.

Waiting for Normal sounds good, Linda. It reminds me of Jeannette Walls book, The Glass Castle. Have to go give your review a thumbs up!

The snow sounds beautiful, and you've got great reviews, as usual. Hope you are taking care of yourself, sweetheart, and enjoying the winter sights!

Fantastic reviews Linda! I'll be going to give thumbs directly! :)

Hi Laura...How is the new job?

Tina...So good to see you here. Thanks for your kind comments.

BOOK#26 (NON ILLUSTRATED)

Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend by Matthew Green.

I couldn't put this book down! Many thanks to Mark and others for recommending it. Five stars for an incredibly creative, well-written tale of a young boy whose world is repetitive and rule bound and whose salvation is a loving teacher and an imaginary friend who loves him at the expense of a supreme sacrifice.

There is very strong character development, a unique story line,
and wonderful writing.

Max's world consists of strict, obsessive details. In order to navigate through life, he created an imaginary friend.

The story of Max is told from the perspective of an imaginary friend. There are passages of sheer brilliance of both humor and sadness.

Run, don't walk to obtain a copy of this book. It is one I'll remember for a long time.

Your thread opener reminds me of a certain day tomorrow that Gentlemen are behoven to remember for the good of their physical and spiritual well-being! Congratulations on your new thread dear lady and, my word, you are setting one heck of a reading pace this year.

Glad to hear you liked Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend so much, Linda. I have that one on my library list after reading Mark and Amy's reviews but will add you as another recommender!

Hi Paul. It is always good to see you here.

Pat, I think Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend is an incredible book. It will stay with me for a while.

Ouch... BB! Imaginary Friend sounds wonderful!

How are you Cheli?

I'm going to try to alphabetically go through the tbr list and read a book off the shelf until I've read a book from A-Z.

I won't do this with library books (of which I have many to read right now.

Hi Linda - great reviews. Waiting for Normal makes me laugh - when our daughter was born husband was having a rough time adjusting and plaintively said "I wish things would get back to normal." I had to remind him that this was the new normal and he'd better get used to it.

Have a super day!

15: Mortality is already on the WL, good to have reminders to bump it up, though...
47: alphabetically go through the tbr list
I haven’t got the same strategy, but I do have the same goal. After two years in the 75ers, I have a realistic sense of my reading pace, and I’m trying to constrain the book acquisitions accordingly.

Linda- Love the enthusiastic review of Imaginary Friend! I hope that continues to spread the word. It deserves a wider audience.

Dang it, dang it, dang it. Imaginary Friend was already on my WL, but with that review, I may actually have to go buy it! Thumbs up for another winning review!

I am so sorry to not have found you sooner... I am so disorganized at LT lately, trying to keep other things all spinning is leaving LT in the dust.. hugs!

Happy Valentines Day

Hello to all.
Thanks for stopping by.

I plan to rest and read this weekend. I have a wicked cold that goes away and then I become re-infected by the students who are hacking and coughing and touching surfaces.

I am having a difficult time finding a book as good as Memoirs of An Imaginary Friend I hate when that happens, ie when a book is so stellar that none can compare.

BOOK #27 (NON ILLUSTRATED)


Dead on Town Line by Leslie Connor

Because Waiting for Normal was so beautifully written, I gave it five stars. Usually when I find a book the caliber of a four-five star read, I seek others by the same author.

After reading the book, I discovered that Stephen (Ape) liked it and Richard (our dear Richard) did not.

My thoughts/feelings are smack in the middle of these two learned gentlemen.

This is a haunting story of Cassie who is dead, but her spirit lingers. Killed by the brother, and at the direction of a jealous, angry classmate, Cassie's body is stuck in the middle of a crevice along town line.

Town line is analogous to the south side of any small town. The side where all those of small minds talk about, and few like to visit.

Written in a poetic free verse, it works to convey the spirit of Cassie who discovers another spirit, that of a long dead black woman grieving the wrong done to her at the hands of a minister man.

As caring citizens search for her body, observantly Cassie watches and waits.

I liked this book. I liked the poetic nature and the analogies of leaves floating and swirling, lacking direction, but hoping to land safely. While it is not a five-star read, the lilting quality is very lovely.

Recommended. Three and 1/2 stars.

Well, we're only 3/4 of a star apart in our rating of the book, Linda.

Hi Richard

Thanks for stopping by. I feel like a little ole lady this evening. I left work early because I have a wicked cold. I came home and drank a cup of hot tea and am now in my pjs for the night.

It is a good reading night.

I hope your night is restful, peaceful and warm.

Oh ugh colds! Ugh ugh ugh. *healthy Linda whammy*

Stella and I are due for a walk in about an hour, so we'll be a bit chilly for a while, but the boiler is working so I am a toasty muffin!

*smooch*

Sorry about the cold. Reading + PJs = good stuff.

Hope you get rid of it over the weekend.

I had a streph throat over the Christmas holiday, kicked it with two rounds of antibiotics, then returned to the university with students who are hacking, coughing and have the flu.

It is only natural that I am reinfected...drat. Will made tomato soup for dinner and while Lilly is longing for a walk, it just isn't going to happen tonight.

Richard, I'm glad the boiler is working.

Karenmarie....thanks for your good wishes.

Hi Linda, so lovely to have you drop by my thread : ). I've now got you starred, too! LOVE your photos of Lilly; she is gorgeous!

Enjoyed your reviews of Waiting for Normal andDead on Town Line. Like you, when I come across a 4.5 or 5* read, I search out more by the same author. I just did that with Coventry actually; I added The Lost Garden to my list ... perhaps more to come, and perhaps not.

Hope you are feeling better soon. Have a good weekend.

Hi Linda, I sure hope you feel better soon with the Wicked Cold. Have a wonderful weekend of reading and relaxation. Blowing a kiss for your cheek so I don't catch your cold Germs.. ;)

Linda, I hope that you are feeling better by now and that you didn't get worse with that cold of yours. Hope you will still manage to have a wonderful weekend :)

Oh dear :( I hope your cold is soon gone.

I too, wish you a wonderful weekend :)

Just stopping by to say hello. Then I see you are under the weather again. :(

I hope your weekend is relaxing & recuperative.

Hello, Linda, I hope you're feeling better and that you were able to find a book you could really love to read over the long weekend.

Thanks to all who visit here!

It was a low-key weekend and I was able to finish two books.

BOOK# 28 (NON ILLUSTRATED)


The First Part Last by Angela Johnson

Found in both the YA and adult sections of the library, this book won both the 2004 Coretta Scott King award and the Michael Printz award.

Told from the perspective of 16 year old Bobby, we learn his fears of becoming a young father. Moving back and forth from then to now, this format works effectively in showing how young Bobby becomes "a man" all to suddenly.

There is a tremendous amount of beauty in this story. As the reader understands Bobby's love for his baby and the way in which he accepts responsibility.

Both Bobby and his girlfriend Nia are from middle class families who love their children and encourage them to "do the right thing!" While attending high school and balancing the role of a young father, Bobby shines through.

I very much like the writings of Angela Johnson. All of her books show a keen, sensitive insight to the subject matter.

Recommended!

Hi Linda, thumb-up for an enticing review of The First Part Last. I'm not familiar with Angela Johnson, but your review makes me think I need to change that.

Hi Nancy

I think you might enjoy Angela Johnson's works. I hope your Sunday is relaxing and warm. As I write the winds are whipping and it is a cold 20 degrees outside.

Glad to hear you had a good weekend and a good book, Linda. Sending positive vibes for a good work week too.

Happy one year birthday to Lilly, found here with her mother a few hours after her birth. Lilly is the puppy on the far left:


And, Happy birthday to wonderful grand daughter Kayla, now 10 years old.
Photo taken this morning:

Oops, photos aren't showing, Linda.

Trying one more time:

BOOK #29

420 Stories by Lou Beach

Thanks to Mamie and Richard who wrote such wonderful reviews, I had to read this ASAP.

Some stories are thought provoking, some scary, some lyrical and others mystical, all are highly creative.

If only I had this book years ago when I sat through a creative writing course listening to the prof. tell the class to write a story about the fly, the fly, the fly on the wall.

I could have used Lou Beach as a reference regarding how the heck to compose an elusive thought and make it shine.

THERE they are! Lovely girls!

Hi roni.

How I wish I was enjoying sunny California weather. Tonight it is bitter cold. The wind is whipping and the air is crispy...

I'm rippping Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend as I roam through the threads. can't wait to get to it.

Nice reviews! The Johnson sounded inviting. I've read the Beach, and I'm glad it made a favorable impression on you.

Hope you are enjoying your long weekend.
Rest, stay warm and dry.

Puppies! awwwww

What a darling photo of the girls -and the puppies!! So sweet, Linda!

Awwwww baby puppy pics! Love it :)

So glad you found me ...and now I can return the favor. So many wondeful books that I need to add to my wish list.

I love Shelties, and yourLilly is beautiful. And 10 is such a fun age!

Hi Linda! I love your pictures, and you've hit me with several book BBs. I was wondering if you'd read The One and Only Ivan. Sounds like one I might get from the library. Take care!

Love the pictures!!! So cute! Want to snuggle the puppies. And your grand daughter is precious!

Happy February birthdays to Lily and Kayla. The pictures are so sweet. It's amazing how much Lily has grown in a year!

Hi Linda! Just stopping by to say hi.

BOOK #30 (NON ILLUSTRATED)


Also Known As Harper by Ann Haywood Leal

Those who might think that YA is all fluff, please take some time to read this book.

Dealing with the difficult, tragic subject of homelessness, the author shows keen insight into this travesty.

Told through the eyes of fifth grade Harper, we witness the plight of her mother and her family.

Her father's absence leaves Harper with conflicted emotions, Harper remembers her father before the alcohol became #1 priority in his life, before he grew more and more dependent upon the liquor, before his children had to witness abuse and verbal arrows that stung.

Harper is glad her father left, but now watches as day by day her mother cannot pay the bills and increasingly month by month is late with the rent.

When they are evicted, they have no safety net. As Harper and her family scrabble to salvage some of their possessions from the front yard where they were thrown by the land lady, Harper is faced with the reality that while their items are second hand, they are important to the family, and now, there is no where to place them.

Living in a run down motel provides temporary shelter. When Harper's mother losses one of her two cleaning jobs, they cannot afford the motel.

Harper's mother is strong. Harper's mother is hard working. Harper's mother is not at fault for the homelessness of her family. Harper's mother is not, what some cold, uninformed people would deem "a welfare queen!" -- God, I hate that phrase!!!

Depressing story? Yes. But, truly, such is life for those living on the edge of society.

I know because I volunteered in our local homeless shelter and served on the board of directors for a number of years.

Conservative statistics note 1.6 million children are homeless in the United States. While we watch tv programs asking us to give up our cup of coffee and send the money to India or Africa, please, let us take heed that people in our own back yard need shelter and food.

Politicians on the right and left would like us to believe we are in the "land of plenty." Not true! Not true!!!!

http://www.care2.com/causes/over-one-million-u-s-kids-are-homeless.html

http://www.ucdenver.edu/academics/colleges/ArchitecturePlanning/discover/centers...

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

Harper has talent; she can write poetry. Harper has dreams; she wants to win the poetry contest at her school.

Harper cannot go to school because she must watch Hemingway, her little brother who obsessively keeps watch for the return of his father, as every night he stands guard waiting for a vehicle to return with the father that he remembers as kind and supportive.

There are wonderful characters in this book. Harper finds and befriends another homeless family.

While her spirit is bruised, it is not crushed and Harper and her family try to make the best of a very difficult situation.

Five Stars. Highly recommended!

I was looking for your thread just now and it was missing! Somehow, it got un-starred :(
How does that happen? I am not one to mess around with stars.
Anywho - all's well that ends well. Here we are.

Your pictures are adorable... beautiful subjects :)
Did you see the pictures of the sheltie on Caro's thread? Sweet, of course.

Yes, I did see the photos of the sheltie on Caro's thread. Right you are -- they are sweet, sweet dogs.

How old is Loki?

Loki turned 6 on Jan 27th. He's in his prime :-)

#77 Hi Tina. Memoirs of An Imaginary Friend is outstanding. I think you will like it.

#78 Hi Richard. Thanks, as always, for your kind comments.

#79 Hi Cheli. Thanks for stopping by. I stayed in my pjs most of the weekend and I read. The cold is now gone away, until a student arrives hacking in my office. I'm taking extra vitamins these days.

#80-82 Hello Tui, Kath and Deborah. Thanks for your comments regarding Lilly. She is indeed very special. It may sound strange, but she is also very sensitive to those who need extra TLC.

She connects with the two little neighborhood girls who are hearing impaired. She gives extra love to an elderly neighbor and last week a remarkable thing happened.

She has bonded with various people in the neighborhood, included an elderly man who lives at the far end of the block. Arne loves her and she always wags and her tail and is excited to see him.

When walking her last week, she did something she never did before -- she dramatically pulled on the leash so that I would take her to Arne's front doorstep. She sat there and barked and barked and barked until he came out.

He arrived at the door with his eye patched. He had eye surgery just that morning and was worried that his retina would become detached. I swear, somehow Lilly knew he needed extra love.

Arne was so happy to see her that he kept saying over and over and over "How did she know?" "How did she know?"

#83 Hi Liz. Thanks for stopping by.

#84 Hi Amy. I liked, but was not particularly enamored
by this Newbery medal winner.

#85-87. Hi Tina, Pat and Karen. Thanks for visiting here!

Happy Tuesday to all!

#77 Hi Tina. Memoirs of An Imaginary Friend is outstanding. I think you will like it.

#78 Hi Richard.Thanks, as always, for your kind comments.

#79 Hi Cheli. Thanks for stopping by. I stayed in my pjs most of the weekend and I read. The cold is now gone away, until a student arrives hacking in my office. I'm taking extra vitamins these days.

#80-82 Hello Tui, Kath and Deborah. Thanks for your comments regarding Lilly. She is indeed very special. It may sound strange, but she is also very sensitive to those who need extra TLC.

She connects with the two little neighborhood girls who are hearing impaired. She gives extra love to an elderly neighbor and last week a remarkable thing happened.

She has bonded with various people in the neighborhood, included an elderly man who lives at the far end of the block. Arne loves her and she always wags and her tail and is excited to see him.

When walking her last week, she did something she never did before -- she dramatically pulled on the leash so that I would take her to Arne's front doorstep. She sat there and barked and barked and barked until he came out.

He arrived at the door with his eye patched. He had eye surgery just that morning and was worried that his retina would become detached. I swear, somehow Lilly knew he needed extra love.

Arne was so happy to see her that he kept saying over and over and over "How did she know?" "How did she know?"

#83 Hi Liz. Thanks for stopping by.

#84 Hi Amy. I liked, but was not particularly enamored
by this Newbery medal winner.

#85-87. Hi Tina, Pat and Karen. Thanks for visiting here!

Happy Tuesday to all!

#77 Hi Tina. Memoirs of An Imaginary Friend is outstanding. I think you will like it.

#78 Hi Richard. Thanks, as always, for your kind comments.

#79 Hi Cheli. Thanks for stopping by. I stayed in my pjs most of the weekend and I read. The cold is now gone away, until a student arrives hacking in my office. I'm taking extra vitamins these days.

#80-82 Hello Tui, Kath and Deborah. Thanks for your comments regarding Lilly. She is indeed very special. It may sound strange, but she is also very sensitive to those who need extra TLC.

She connects with the two little neighborhood girls who are hearing impaired. She gives extra love to an elderly neighbor and last week a remarkable thing happened.

She has bonded with various people in the neighborhood, including an elderly man who lives at the far end of the block. Arne loves her and she always wags her tail and is excited to see him.

When walking her last week, she did something she never did before -- she dramatically pulled on the leash so that I would take her to Arne's front doorstep. She sat there and barked and barked and barked until he came out.

He arrived at the door with his eye patched. He had eye surgery just that morning and was worried that his retina would become detached. I swear, somehow Lilly knew he needed extra love.

Arne was so happy to see her that he kept saying over and over and over "How did she know?" "How did she know?"

#83 Hi Liz. Thanks for stopping by.

#84 Hi Amy. I liked, but was not particularly enamored
by this Newbery medal winner.

#85-87. Hi Tina, Pat and Karen. Thanks for visiting here!

Happy Tuesday to all!

Goodness Gracious...What's happening? One click and three posts?

Hi Linda!

The story of your dog insisting on visiting your neighbor brought tears to my eyes. What an amazing and wonderful pet you have!

You also hit me with two book bullets... Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend and Waiting for Normal.

Hope you are having a nice day!

#88: The book sounds wonderful! I will have to see if my local library has a copy.

Somehow politicians forget that every child is important. They are the future!

Came to check in on you and had to add another one to my wish list! I will definitely have to get to Also Known as Harper based on your stellar review! I will go in knowing it is a tough one, though.

Thumbs up for your review!

>92 Whisper1:: aha one of those extra special dogs! Love the story of her pulling you to see Arne.

Hi Linda, thoroughly enjoyed your review of Also Known as Harper. What you say about our own back yard is far too true!

Hi Linda - What an adorable baby picture of Lilly with her mom!! You really should look into doing volunteer therapy work with her. Sounds like it would be a perfect job for her.

HI Tui, Nancy and Joanne.

Our wonderful 13 year old Sheltie Simon died last February. It broke our hearts. Will seemed to think it was too quick to bring another dog into our lives. I knew that no one dog could fill Simon's place, but I also knew that I wanted/needed another dog.

It was a wise decision. Joanne, I think you are right that Lilly would be a good volunteer dog. Perhaps when the neck fusion is totally in place and I have more energy, I can look into this. I think taking her to nursing homes would be the best avenue for her.

Nancy. Thanks for your kind comments. Also Known As Harper tugged at my heartstrings. When I was heavily involved with the local homeless shelter, I visited various churches and business' and gave presentations about homelessness in America.

I vividly remember attending a Rotary Club luncheon as the guest speaker. When I focused on food distribution in America and began by thanking the group for my free lunch, I opened the door to say that it is ironic that so many of us who can afford to pay for our meals are given them for free, whereas those who cannot afford meals are looked down upon by society as "free loaders." There was an initial pregnant silence in the room, but at the end of the presentation, many gave positive "feed" back.

Jonathan Kozol's book Rachel and her Children: Homeless Families in America is excellent at shining a light on this glaring problem.

Hi Linda, nothing to contribute on the reading front this time. However, I very much love the photo of Lily as a pup. I only can say aaaaaaaaawwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww luvely.

Lilly sounds like a very extraordinary dog! What treasure of a dog. I'm so glad the she led you up Arne's doorstep so you could both give him a little extra love. Having surgery and being concerned that perhaps you had a detached retina certainly would be an anxiety producing concern.

Rachel and her Children: Homeless Families in America sounds like an excellent , enlightening read.

I am never surprised to hear about furkids who have special gifts of giving TLC or laughter or whatever is needed. There is nothing like a furry friend.. nothing.

As much as I love my dog, she's a spaz and freaks out about the littlest things. I wish she were more people friendly but she'll run up to someone then run away again barely giving them time to greet her. Ah well. Maybe one of these days I'll have a calmer dog!

Linda, I so appreciate your review of Rachel and Her Children. I work with homeless teens so I am aware of the situation in our own back yards. Many of these teens have babies, and I wonder what kind of chance they have with little or no support system. I help feed them once a month and pray for them.

Love the picture of Lilly as a puppy. She has turned into a beautiful and sensitive dog. Kayla is a cutie as well. She is right in between the ages of my two oldest granddaughters. I know you have good times with her.

Great pictures, Linda and great reviews. I, too, am always concerned with the fund-raising that goes on for other countries when we have such obvious need here, but maybe the problem is that it isn't obvious. So many people in the United States would rather starve than to let others know they are in need of help, because we live in such a judgmental society. It is so heart-breaking to be so afraid that you can't pay your bills and eat! What a choice! But it happens too often, and it has happened to my family because my husband has his own construction company for 30 years now, and we have had both feast and famine.

Linda, the Long Island Medium is a show on television about a Long Island housewife who claims to communicate with those who have "passed over". She is a real doll, and I get quite a kick out of her in-your-face personality. But she really has me going...sometimes I feel like a complete fool to believe any of it, but I don't know...the people she helps seem so authentic, they would have to be in on the hoax if that is what it is. Anyway, just so you know what I was referring to.

Also, I was so saddened to hear about Christopher Hitchens death. I didn't know! Duhh! How did that get by me? What I always loved about him was the way he wrote for the common man. He was so smart but he wrote in such a clear concise way that I always felt almost anybody could read him, whether they would agree with him or not, well...that is another story!
Rest in peace, CH.

Linda, beautiful pictures of Lilly and Kayla! Added Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend to the wishlist. I LOVED The First Part Last when I read it years ago. It stays with you! And I agree with you about Angela Johnson, always satisfied when I read one of her books. Hope you are well.

I don't know what happened but somehow your star got detached and I've missed so much! Some great reviews here, Linda, Also Known As Harper is being added to my wishlist, and I need to check onMemoirs of an Imaginary Friend, I can't remember if Mark already got me with that one.

Sorry to hear about your cold, I hope you're feeling better now. And Lily is one amazing dog, I love stories showing how hyper-sensitive dogs can be.

Hi Linda - love the dog stories - your dog sounds really exceptional. Also loving the reviews, especially the Hitchens (yeah, I'm behind on my thread reading). He was a wonderful, thoughtful and powerful thinker. I've read others stuff of his, but will now put Mortality on my TBR.

Linda my dove, the review for Also Known as Harper isn't on Goodreads...just sayin'.

Thumbs-upped it, of course.

Thanks Richard. It is now posted on Goodreads.

BOOK #31 (NON ILLUSTRATED)


Fashion of Marilyn Monroe: The Enduring Influence of Marilyn Monroe by Christopher Nickens

Reading this was a delightful way to spend an evening. It is a beautiful book about the fashion of a stunningly beautiful woman. Marilyn Monroe knew how to relate to a camera. Page after page of this book contained lovely photos of her exquisite apparel.

Broken into chapters of specific designers and their incredible creations, I was in awe of both the dresses and the way in which the fabric brought forth the internal and external beauty.

Linda - Dear Marilyn, what an icon of fashion, femininity and sexuality! Ironic I suppose that for all her fashion flair she slept famously in only Chanel #5 and died, poor girl, without a stitch on.

Have a lovely weekend.

Gorgeous woman, and cameras loved her! Fun way to spend an evening, Linda : ).

I was thinking the same as Paul. She was a beautiful woman... but clearly battled a few demons. How sad:(

I hope that all is well in Linda-land and that you have a wonderful, restful weekend..

BOOK #32 (NON ILLUSTRATED)

A Month of Sundays by Ruth White

Delightful and insightful. When April Garnet is dumped at the home of her aunt -- a person she never met, she is down right angry at her mother. Feeling abandoned, she refused to take calls or respond to letters written to her by her mother.

As her mother searches for work in Florida, April Garnet lives in Black River, Virginia. Soon, April learns to find security in the warm family atmosphere and for the first time in her life she feels as though she belongs.

Attending various church services with her Aunt, she realizes that her Aunt is in search of something. Later, she learns that her Aunt is in search of health and to be free of the cancer that is growing.

There is a happy ending, however, I was disappointed in the fact that the author crafted a well written story but felt the need to add a few unnecessary pages in a speedy ending.

Hope your weekend is turning out to be warm and cozy with Will and Lilly and a few good books!

Thanks Cheli. Our neighbor girls came to visit last night. We had dinner with their parents and it was a lovely time.

Today--grocery shopping -- something I do not enjoy doing.

Happy grocery shopping! May it be the best of them all, the first of many many happy expeditions to come! :-P~~~~

HI Richard.

It is bitter cold today. The sky was grey and the wind was whipping.

It was a good day to read.

BOOK #33 NON ILLUSTRATED

Little Audrey by Ruth White

Life was difficult in 1948 for the White family. Living in Southwestern Virginia in a coal mining town, Audrey is the oldest of four girls. The house is a shack. The food is sparse and the family is dirt poor. This story is the real life tale of the author. She chose to give voice to the story through her eldest sister, and the book is written from her perspective.

Scrawny from lack of food and illness, Audrey looks at the world through eyes that need large glasses and her awkwardness defines her as a crumbly, skinny, nail biting girl who longs for security. She asks for little of life. She simply would like things to be better, for the family to have food and decent housing, and for a mother who is not depressed and a father who is not alcoholic.

This book is depressing. It is 146 pages of raw sadness.
It is well written and I recommended it. Read it though on a sunny day, sit in your chair surrounded by warmth and give thanks for the blessings you have in the realization that many do not have even the basic necessities.

Hi, Linda! Nice thread, with great reviews. I lost you for a while because you didn't use the thread continuation feature when you made this thread. I've got you starred now!

Lovely review of Little Audrey, Linda. It's windy and raining here today, but they promise us a few hours of sun tomorrow. We'll see!

Good Morning Linda, I was a little behind on here and just went through catching up on your thread. I love love love the story about Lilly and your neighbor. She sounds so darling and sweet. I have always said dogs know things and have this sense about them that humans just don't understand where it comes from but it is a wonderful gift. It seems Lilly has a little extra. I know my Dog can tell if someone is in pain or can't handle the extra leaning or excitment she remains calmer and goes to them to see them more gently than if they were not ill or injured. They just know and they are so wonderful to have around. I feel like a house is not a home without a dog in it.

BTW great reviews and hopefully all is well and hopefully it is a great week for you.

((HUGS))

drat, the end of my thread does not have the continuation link. Can any one tel me how to get this?

Thanks.

The continuation link doesn't show up until you reach 200 posts, Linda. If you want to start a new thread before that, you'll need to do it the old-fashioned way but they won't be linked together.

Thanks!!!!

I did not purchase any books in January.

Here is a list of those purchased in February:

Purchased on the sale table of local library for .25 each


Purchased at Barnes and Noble (using Christmas gift certificate) for $4.50 each:

Just getting caught up on your thread, Linda -- I have gotten behind lately! Glad you enjoyed Waiting for Normal and The First Part Last -- I liked them both very much when I read them. And I'll put Also Known as Harper on my TBR list.

What a great haul at the book sale. I've read several of those, and several more are on the lust list. You should have a wonderful reading adventure coming up.

I read Cleopatra and loved it. I agree with Tina, I lust after some of those too.

Oooh Nice Haul Linda :)

Oh wow, you read so many books already!

.25c each! What a steal! I see you found a copy of Doc; that's on my list for later this year (I hope!).

What great hauls at both places! And thank you...you know for what. *smooch*

Nice hauls for both categories. I'll have a few purchases and free e-galleys to add for February myself. I'll probably wait until the end of the month to post them.

Oh, 'Doc' is marvelous! Several of your other acquisitions are also quite tempting.

Had quite a lot to catch up here! I love the story of Lilly and your neighbor! I've had a cat who always *knew* when something was wrong with me. It was uncanny. But for Lilly to KNOW about someone other than you really is an amazingly special gift! I'm all smiles now! :)

A lot of books for very little, Linda--what great deals you have found.

I look forward to your thoughts on these, especially DOC!

I don't typically notice book covers but the second row of books, the ones from Barnes and Noble, are particularly lovely.

And here I thought I was caught up only to find you had another thread rolling along. I had to add two more books after catching up as well. House plans are still being ironed out. I've come to the realization I don't speak english but with grunting and pointing I'm getting what I want. Or so I tell myself :)

Doc! Doc! Doc!

Hi, Linda. Are you feeling 100% again after that cold? I do hope so!
(Doc! Doc! Doc!) (Or join me in Cleopatra; I just started it, and I'm very happy at how witty Schiff is.)
Love the Lilly story!
>126 Whisper1: - I think the continuation link appears after the 200th post. Not long by your standards!

So, what was the decision? Doc ? LOL

Found you again!! LOve the grandkid photos from the last thread. Glad to hear the neck is going well. And love all the book reviews! Be well and keep 'em coming!

#130- Foggidawn. It is wonderful to have a fellow YA reader in our 75 challenge group. I'm currently reading Miss Peregrine's Peculiar Children and loving the creativity and solid images written by Ransom Riggs. Have you read this one?

#131- Hi Tina. It has been a snowy, grey, rainy, wet winter. I imagine where you live in Maine is the same as we have here in NE PA.

#132-Hi Cheli. I believe you mentioned you are having an injection in your knee today. If so, I hope it brings needed relief from pain.

#133- Hi there Monica. I hope all is well with you. I was very good at not buying books in January. March is around the corner and I'm in NYC for a conference. I may have to visit the Strand.

http://www.strandbooks.com/

I was there with some LT members a few years ago -- thank you Richard for the tour and for driving us in the city....

#134-Hi appplebook...so good to see you here.

#135-138- Why is it that books make us so very happy, even if we know we don't need any more of them???

#139 - Tina, Lilly is very unique and we are blessed by her. My previous Shetland sheep dog was also very sensitive.

A few years ago I awoke to Simon barking and pacing back and forth, back and forth by my bedside. As soon as I awoke, my heart went into tachycardia. Somehow Simon knew this was happening and wanted to alert me.

She the followed me around the house to where I found Will and would not leave my side until the ambulance arrived. Actually, Will tried to get her behind closed doors so she would not interrupt the ambulance drivers, and she pulled away from him so strongly that he fell.

What a scene. I had tachycardia and the exertion of Simon pulling him and his falling caused an asthma attack for Will.

We laughed afterward because it was like a circus carnival. Both of us were having difficulty breathing and Simon was extremely excited by two old people needing care....

#140-142 Doc seems to be a very popular book. Right now I have 15 books checked out from the library. After I read them, I'll read Doc. While I was in the check out line, I started to read a few pages, and was hooked.

#143 - Hi Brenda. Remodeling and/or building = lots of stress. Good luck with your new house.

Mark, Kath, Peggy and Kim, Happy Day to you and thanks for stopping by.

#148 -- I did read Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children, and thought it was very creative.

OMG Linda, It sounds like Shelties really have a penchant for sensing the needs of their owners, or anyone in physical need of emotional attention. And I bet your dogs in particular are sensitive because you guys are probably very loving with them and share all of yourselves with them. It is when we have others to our house that I realize how much we dote on our dogs. Our company always seems a little overwhelmed by the close connection we have with our dogs. We put a great deal of merit in their behavior because we feel that they are so sensitive to ours that much of what they do is in reaction to us.

Hi, Linda! *waves* I finally got caught up on your threads. It looks like you've read soem fabulous books already this year. I've added a ton to my TBR list! I'm sorry to hear you've been having health problems again, I know what that's like. I've never had to have any kind of surgery on my heart (just the Chiari and neck fusion) but I have had tachycardia on and off. It does seem to be something that is connected to the Chiari, for me at least.

Marcia

You are right! Tachycardia has been linked to ACM. And, when you say "just the Chiari and neck fusion)...You have said a lot.

I think of you often. It is so good to have you back!

I'm using Goodreads more often in the last few weeks. I follow you there as well as here.

I've added a lot of my latest books to the tbr pile when they are recommended on Goodreads.

Hi Mary Beth...I do hope to meet you in the next year! You are a kind, sweet soul. Shelties are highly intelligent as well as highly sensitive. For me, there is no other breed.

Just want to add my congratulations for the great February book haul. Doc is also on my WL. I loved The Sparrow and its sequel Children of God so much that it makes me want to read everything by Mary Doria Russell.

Somehow I missed the thread change Linda. I'm caught up now. Nice book haul. I loved both Doc and Cleopatra so you have some good reading ahead of you.

I'm surprised you have time for Goodreads. I can't even keep up here very well but I do post some reviews over there.

Great book haul, Linda! Like so many of those commenting here, I loved Doc. It's not one that normally would have appealed to me at face value, but I heard so many good things about it here on LT, I tried it and was hooked right in! (I did it on audio from the library, and the narrator was especially talented.) I also like the Katherine Hall Page series.

Happy weekend my dear! Another rainy one here. I hope the bulbs and shrubs get enough, since we had so little snow.

*smooch*

BOOK#34

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children

Highly creative and original, this was indeed a very interesting book. Shiny bright in some chapters, but lacking in patina in the later pages, much has been said about this book. There are some very positive comments, and then others could not abide the tale. I'm smack in the middle of feeling luke warm.

For most of his life, Jacob has listened to graphic tales spoken by his grandfather. Attributing the conversations to dementia, Jacob listened with interest, then boredom. When his grandfather is killed by a strange creature, Jacob begins a quest to get to the bottom of his grandfather's references.

Journeying with his father to a secluded island in Wales, Jacob finds strange children who are particularly abnormal. Among those in the care of Miss Peregrine is a girl who can float, another who has a mouth in front and in back of her face, a young man who can lift incredibly large boulders, a boy who is invisible and a charming girl who flicks fire at the end of her fingers.

Realizing that these are those mentioned by his grandfather, Jacob is able to transport into a time warp -- a loop where the date is always the same and time is frozen in place.

Augmented by various photos of the peculiars throughout the book, done in sepia duotone, the tale becomes more eerie and surreal.


Realizing that his grandfather was a peculiar and he is as well, Jacob must make a decision to stay or return home with his father.

The first chapters were wonderfully creative, but the later part of the book spun out of control and chase scenes, boogiemen and gore prevailed.

Guardedly recommended.

That is a most interesting review of Miss Peregrine's Home, Linda. I can certainly see how you'd be right in between very positive and could not abide. Think I'll pass, but thanks for reading it for me : ).

Hi Nancy

I waited a few days before I wrote the review. I wanted to process my thoughts/feelings.

"Peculiar" keeps calling out to me and I keep ignoring it... lol

Hi Linda,

I felt the same way about Miss Peregrine's, loved the beginning but it lost me by the end oh well. Have a Great Weekend!

That's an amazing story about Simon, your sheltie! I've heard that some dogs can sense a grand mal seizure in a person before they actually come on and can then assist the owner. Dogs are really amazing!

I enjoyed Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children but like you, guardedly. (I gave it three and a half stars in the end.) Great ideas but I felt it could have been done better. And it annoyed me a bit that the island of the coast of Wales didn't feel even slightly Welsh to me: I know that's a bit unfair as if it had been off the coast of a lot of other places I wouldn't have noticed whether it felt authentic or not.

>157 Whisper1:: Oh my, I should have done my homework on Miss Peregrine's Home. It is one of those last-minute items I picked up for Sadie's birthday last month. I hope she reads the other books I got her first so I can warn her away. I think she might be scarred for life after reading this! She doesn't do "creepy" well at all. Maybe she can give it to her younger sister who would probably love it.

I see lots of love for Doc here. That reminds me I must get it read before the sequel comes out!

I hope winter is not being too hard on you, Linda. I am ready and waiting for some soft spring breezes and bright spring flowers.

Wait, there's a sequel to Doc? How did I miss that news?!

Woot! I just picked up Doc from the library yesterday. Sequel?

I've been on the fence about Miss Peregrine for a while... I will probably get it if I see it at the library or on sale somewhere cheap, but not go out of my way to get it.

Hello dear Linda, finally popping in to check on you! You've done some great reading in my absence, and Miss Peregrine is one that I hope to get off of my shelf this year. :)

Hope you have a lovely Sunday eve!

Thumbs-upped and "like"d your spot-on review, Linda! A love-it-hate-it-love-it-again read for sure.

Thanks to all for your visits here. It is a busy time at work, that added to health issues equate to a lack of energy and time to devote to LT the way in which I would like.

I appreciate all who stop by, even though I am not as diligent in visiting your thread!

It is Monday and the sun is shining -- the first day of sunshine in weeks. Winter blahs abound and now the sun brings cheer. Amen!

BOOK #35


Way Down Deep by Ruth White

While I enjoyed previous books written by this author, I was a tad disappointed in this.

Keep track of the many characters presented a problem.

Ruby June resides in a tiny village named Way Down Deep. When a baby, she mysteriously was found on the courthouse steps. Take in by the kind and quirky Miss Alburtus, who runs the local boarding house, we are introduced to a host of down home, kind hearted, quirky folk.

Now, 13, Ruby is happy and is well liked by all members of Way Down Deep. When a new family move to town, they have information which leads to finding Ruby's long-lost grandmother.

Taken from Miss Alburtus and plucked in the far off lonely woods with a cantankerous grandmother brings depression for Ruby and a longing of the town folk for Ruby to return.

Some of the passages were laugh out loud and highly creative and thus the book marginally redeems itself. But the attempt at too much creativity undermined the good writing and I give this one a guarded two stars.

Linda, you get an amazing amount of posting done! You put the rest of us to shame..... I had lost track of your thread for a bit--now I've re-found you and scattered a bit of stardust to keep track.

Love the Dickinson poem.

I've read other reviews of Mortality here on LT, but yours is the one that has made me put it on the spreadsheet. Waiting for Normal is also there now. Appropriate thumbs left.

I am so sorry to hear your neck is still painful. Is it at least more tolerable than it was pre-surgery?

Hi Janet

Thanks for your kind words. Yes, the surgery was worth it. The level of pain is much, much better. The surgeon noted a 50/50 chance that I may have to have another fusion, this one at C7-8.

I will go with the 50% positive and aim toward that. I don't think I can abide yet another surgery. It is too difficult of a recovery.

Happy Day to you.

Acquired for $1.30 at the local library sale table on Friday

Looks like you got a good haul! And I'm often thinking of you and hoping you're doing well... I understand how hard it must be with your health issues to keep up!

Dropping by to say hello....like you I am terminally behind. I did just finish a spectacular YA set in Maine and I'm anxious to hear your thoughts on it. You are my go-to person for YA, so when you happen upon Out of Nowhere by Maria Padian, please try to fit it in your busy reading schedule. I'm hoping to get a review up on my thread sometime this week (I'm only 9 reviews behind!!!). The story is set in mid-city Maine where the population is exploding with re-sited refugees/immigrants from Somalia. The teenagers at the local high-school are having an especially hard time dealing with "them" until suddenly they realize that many of "them" are stand-out soccer players.

It's a lovely story, well-done, diversity issues frankly handled on both sides. I'm suspecting it will be on a lot of HS reading lists come fall and not just in Maine.

Stay warm, well, dry and happy my friend.

Linda, hope the warmer weather brings you more energy! Lovely reviews, as always.

Marcia...Winter is difficult. I'm feeling like a walking tooth ache. The crazy barometric pressure causes migraines. And then fiorocet is the drug of choice, which can then cause tychardia because of the high caffeine level.. Ah, well, life is still good...very good. How are you feeling these days?

Tina, I've added Out of Nowhere to the tbr pile. It sounds like a book I would enjoy. Thanks for your comments.

Hi Regina. I'm praying for you and your family. I'm so sorry for your loss.

Sequel to Doc.. yes, soon
AND a tv mini series....check MDR's blog

Hi Linda... dropping b to bring you a hug

Hi Kath

Thanks for stopping by. I'm so weary of the cold, wind, grey, rainy days. Today was a blessing because the sun came out and stayed for awhile.

Hugs back at ya.

I didn't purchase any books in January, but I'm making up for this in March...sigh..

A nice package awaited me when I returned home from work. My Bookcloseouts.com order arrived. It felt like Christmas to open the box.

Here are the additions to my already overstuffed shelves:



Titles are:
1) The Last Days of Hitler by Anton Joachimsthaler
2) Josephine by Carolly Erickson
3) Harriett Tubman Conductor on the Underground Railway by Ann Petry
4) Alex and Nicky by Virginia Rounding
5) Holy Ghosts or How a (Not So) Good Catholic Boy Became a Believer in Things That Go Bump In The Night by Gary Jansen
6) Sashenka by Simon Montefiore
7) When the Ghost Screams by Leslie Rule
8) Eight Keys by Suzanne LaFleur
9) Whirl Away by Russell Wangersky
10) The Friendship Doll by Kirby Larson
11) Secrets of the Tudor Court Between Two Queens by Kate Emerson
12) Crunch by Leslie Connor
13) Aunt Harriet's Underground Railroad in the Sky by Faith Ringold

Total: Approximately $3.50 per book, including shipping costs

Now, the dilema is where to store them....

Woot! What a haul, Linda. I love looking at book covers all collaged like that. Would make a perfect painting in my house : ).

I'm delighted to hear that there is both a sequel and a mini-series under construction for Doc.

Hi Linda- Good review of Miss Peregrine, along with the creepy photos! Mixed opinion on LT is the only thing keeping me from reading this one.
I think Russell is currently working on the sequel to Doc, Doc, Doc! Sorry, I couldn't help myself.

Hi Nancy. I hope to read Doc soon. So many people highly recommend it.

Mark. Do you have to drive around in the snow tomorrow? Today the sun finally came out and it was wonderful. But, we usually have a hum digger of a storm in March and thus I know the sun is fleeting.

Goodnight, Goodnight, Goodnight

BOOK #36


My Brother's Book by Maurice Sendak

What a lovely gem of a book. In a short number of pages, Sendak painted images and wove a rich tapestry of poetic work.

A song to his brother Jack and Eugene Glynn, his partner of 50 years, it is a haunting poem of life that transcends death. Of love that shines through the veil of darkness. Death, frozen in icy cold transcends to warmth of love that knows no boundaries.

This was Sendak's last book and it is powerful.

Hi Linda. I just put My Brother's Book on my library list. They don't have it yet but it's on order. I think Joanne also liked it.

Hope your sunshine stays around for a long time.

About Miss Peregrine... Your review is stellar and I'm off to give it a thumbs up. I love your phrase "guardedly recommended" and I will consider myself warned, but I still think I'd like to read it.

Hi Tina

Thanks for stopping by. Thanks also for your very kind words. I hope your evening is a good one.

You and I had much the same reaction to Miss Peregrine, Linda. I hope you have had a good day. I will be looking for the Sendak book.

Linda I am sorry to hear of your health troubles. I totally understand about migraines caused by changes in barometric pressure....I experience the same thing. And I also take Fioricet for pain.

Hit by a book bullet...Tina's recommendation for Out of Nowhere got me as well.

Hi Linda, You really are making up for lost time in the book buying department! I stuggle, too, with where to keep them all. I donated a nice bagful to the library last week. It's oddly sad to see them on the sale shelf though.

I've picked up Miss Peregrine a few times to look at and then quickly put it down again. I get thoroughly creeped out by the photos - and I don't usually get creeped out like that.

I'm so glad you liked My Brother's Book, too! (I see the first touchstone offering is still coming up "Twilight"....)

Hi, sweetie,
When are you supposed to hear back from the doctor about the sleep stuff?

Hugs!

*smoochings*

The Sendak book sounds very good...
Plenty of snow here, today. It was 43 yesterday.. I am really tired of snow :(

Your comments on My Brother's Book make me want to read that one soon, Linda. I hope that you are feeling better and that spring is right around the corner for you!

I must have missed sleep stuff. What's going on dear?

Hi Tina

How kind of you to ask. There is a correlation between sleep apnea and tachyacrdia. Two years ago I had a heart ablation to eliminate the super fast pulse. It worked, but now it has returned.

I tested positive for sleep apnea and will get fitted for the dreaded mask to help.

And how are you my dear?

Oh My what Haul's Linda and I am so far behind on my thread reading. Everything is going okay here. My darling Angel (Dog) had some issues with her arthritis acting up the other day where she could barely walk. It breaks my heart to see my baby having such trouble walking. But gave her some aspirin and Glucosomine and she is doing better today finally. Everything else is going okay.

Glad to see you on here alot..

Hugs and smooches to you Will and Lilly :)

Linda, three of my best friends in the school district all were diagnosed with sleep apnea a number of years ago. The one who had it the worst (she could NOT stay awake during meetings or movies) was simply paranoid and claustrophobic about the idea of sleeping with the mask. The other day, we were talking about some demonstrations around here and she said there was no way she could get arrested. Why? She didn't think they'd allow her to have her sleep mask in jail! She is so much more alert and happier now, and loves her mask.

Thanks Monica and Roni

I'll try anything so that I don't have to have another heart ablation. I know weight is a factor in sleep apnea. I've lost 30-45 pounds in the last year because of pain. Still, I have some more to lose.

Reading is such a sedintary habit. I arrive home exhausted and the days of going to the gym are over, at least until the neck fuses totally.

Roni, I'm curious regarding what "demonstrations" are around where you live.

Anti-nuclear mostly, but also against confiscating public lands for highways.

There's a correlation btween tachycardia & sleep apnea??? I had no idea! I was diagnosed with unexplained tachycardia a couple of years back. I'm on beta blockers now. I was JUST diagnosed with sleep apnea about 2 months ago! Who knew??

So I'm no expert since I'm still getting used to my mask but I try not to go without it now. I can tell a huge difference! I was not interested in being tested bc I did NOT want to be saddled with a mask, but I think it's going to increase the quality of my life. Take heart Linda!! I'll be your mask support!!

Another CPAP 'er here. I cried when I first had to use the mask in the sleep lab, but now also really like the serenity of not waking up in a panic several times a night.

Oh Linda... I am so sorry to hear that you are having problems again..
How frustrating it must be... sorry about the whole mask thing.. it sounds dreadful :(

Thanks for the kind words re. my need to wear the mask....

If it helps, I'm all for it.

Happy Friday to all.

Linda, sorry to hear you are struggling with your health right now. Sending wishes for a rejuvenating weekend.

Another CPAPer here. It really makes all the difference in how you sleep and feel. Yes, it takes awhile to get used to but it is so worth it! My biggest problem was my face feeling hot. So I got a small fan to put on the table next to my bed and that helped a lot. Also, play with the humidity. The company wanted me to set the humidity a lot higher than I was comfortable with. And during the summer, I don't used the humidifier at all.

Hi Linda, just catching up and wanting to wish you a lovely weekend. Sorry to hear that your health continues to be of a concern. I've dealing with a few health issues myself these days and I know how tiresome it can be.

I write from NYC where I am attending a College Media Association convention. It is good, but exhausting.

I am way behind on posting on threads, and I appreciate those who visit here!

BOOK#37

Wonder by R.J. Palacio

August Pullman was born with a severe facial deformity. While he is not beautiful on the outside, his soul shines. Knowing it can never happen, still, he longs to be normal. As a child he wore a mask in order to avoid the stares and glares.

Home schooled by his mother, he is now heading for fifth grade and is scared beyond belief.

This is his tale, told by him, his sister and classmates.

There a lovely characters in this book, including strong, loving teachers, children who struggle with Auggie's appearance, bullying, and the wonderful courage of August.

Auggie Pullman is a wonder inside and out. Highly recommend to read. This book was floated as a potential Newbery award winner. I'm surprised it didn't make it to the top right up where it belongs.

Thanks to Joe for pointing this book in my directions.

Four Stars.

Hi,
This one looks lovely- I will see if the library has it, so thanks Linda, and Joe :)
I hope you are well, Linda!

I need to bump this higher on Mount TBR.

Hi Megan and Morphy

I highly recommend Wonder. It is a delight.

That looks like quite a story.... I will add it to the list.
How are you feeling my friend?

Hi Kath

I'm weary after a three night/four day College Media Association workshop in NYC. It was a great conference, but I'm glad to be home. I'll hop over to your thread to see how you are.

Hugs