Diana (Wilkie) reads, Part 8
This is a continuation of the topic Wilkie reads, Part 7.
This topic was continued by Diana (Wilkie) reads, Part 9.
Talk 75 Books Challenge for 2013
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2wilkiec
My reading in 2013:
January
1. The Moonstone - Wilkie Collins 9/10, 438 p.
2. PAAZ - Myrthe van der Meer 9/10, 351 p.
3. A Place of Greater Safety - Hilary Mantel 7/10, 873 p.
4. The Man Who Forgot His Wife - John O'Farrell 8/10, 393 p.
5. And the Band Played On: Politics, People and the AIDS Epidemic - Randy Shilts 8/10, 630 p.
6. Sans Famille - Hector Malot 8/10, 406 p.
7. Defending Jacob - William Landay 8/10, 421 p.
8. Steve Jobs - Walter Isaacson 7/10, 720 p.
Pages read in January: 4232
January
1. The Moonstone - Wilkie Collins 9/10, 438 p.
2. PAAZ - Myrthe van der Meer 9/10, 351 p.
3. A Place of Greater Safety - Hilary Mantel 7/10, 873 p.
4. The Man Who Forgot His Wife - John O'Farrell 8/10, 393 p.
5. And the Band Played On: Politics, People and the AIDS Epidemic - Randy Shilts 8/10, 630 p.
6. Sans Famille - Hector Malot 8/10, 406 p.
7. Defending Jacob - William Landay 8/10, 421 p.
8. Steve Jobs - Walter Isaacson 7/10, 720 p.
Pages read in January: 4232
3wilkiec
February
9. An Utterly Impartial History of Britain - John O'Farrell 7/10, 588 p.
10. Op zee - Toine Heijmans 6/10, 192 p.
11. The Expats - Chris Pavone 5/10, 500 p.
12. Growing Up Amish - Ira Wagler 6/10, 270 p.
13. No Name - Wilkie Collins 7/10, 762 p.
14. Devil's Peak - Deon Meyer 8/10, 409 p.
15. The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher - Kate Summerscale 6/10, 372 p.
16. Verzamelde gedichten - M. Vasalis 9/10, 196 p.
17. Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers - Mary Roach 9/10, 304 p.
18. The Complete Polysyllabic Spree - Nick Hornby 7/10, 278 p.
19. Gedichten - Judith Herzberg 6/10, 75 p.
Pages read in February: 3946
9. An Utterly Impartial History of Britain - John O'Farrell 7/10, 588 p.
10. Op zee - Toine Heijmans 6/10, 192 p.
11. The Expats - Chris Pavone 5/10, 500 p.
12. Growing Up Amish - Ira Wagler 6/10, 270 p.
13. No Name - Wilkie Collins 7/10, 762 p.
14. Devil's Peak - Deon Meyer 8/10, 409 p.
15. The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher - Kate Summerscale 6/10, 372 p.
16. Verzamelde gedichten - M. Vasalis 9/10, 196 p.
17. Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers - Mary Roach 9/10, 304 p.
18. The Complete Polysyllabic Spree - Nick Hornby 7/10, 278 p.
19. Gedichten - Judith Herzberg 6/10, 75 p.
Pages read in February: 3946
4wilkiec
March
20. The Sealed Letter - Emma Donoghue 9/10, 483 p.
21. I, Claudius - Robert Graves 8/10, 468 p.
22. De eurocrisis - Martin Visser 7/10, 240 p.
23. Thirteen Hours - Deon Meyer 9/10, 410 p.
24. No et Moi - Delphine de Vigan 7/10, 248 p.
25. Here Be Dragons - Sharon Kay Penman 9/10, 704 p.
26. Into the Wild - Jon Krakauer 4/10, 205 p.
27. Shakespeare Wrote for Money - Nick Hornby 7/10, 131 p.
28. More Baths, Less Talking - Nick Hornby 7/10, 135 p.
29. The Woman Who Went to Bed For a Year - Sue Townsend 6/10, 437 p.
30. Bij nader inzien - J.J. Voskuil 8/10, 1207 p.
31. The Sisters Brothers - Patrick deWitt 7/10, 328 p.
32. IV - Arjen Lubach 6/10, 319 p.
Pages read in March: 5315
20. The Sealed Letter - Emma Donoghue 9/10, 483 p.
21. I, Claudius - Robert Graves 8/10, 468 p.
22. De eurocrisis - Martin Visser 7/10, 240 p.
23. Thirteen Hours - Deon Meyer 9/10, 410 p.
24. No et Moi - Delphine de Vigan 7/10, 248 p.
25. Here Be Dragons - Sharon Kay Penman 9/10, 704 p.
26. Into the Wild - Jon Krakauer 4/10, 205 p.
27. Shakespeare Wrote for Money - Nick Hornby 7/10, 131 p.
28. More Baths, Less Talking - Nick Hornby 7/10, 135 p.
29. The Woman Who Went to Bed For a Year - Sue Townsend 6/10, 437 p.
30. Bij nader inzien - J.J. Voskuil 8/10, 1207 p.
31. The Sisters Brothers - Patrick deWitt 7/10, 328 p.
32. IV - Arjen Lubach 6/10, 319 p.
Pages read in March: 5315
5wilkiec
April
33. Ik, Zlatan - Zlatan Ibrahimovic 6/10, 334 p.
34. Sharp Objects - Gillian Flynn 7/10, 328 p.
35. 7 Days - Deon Meyer 8/10, 348 p.
36. Escape from Camp 14 - Blaine Harden 8/10, 242 p.
37. Left Neglected - Lisa Genova 8/10, 432 p.
38. Bonk - Mary Roach 6/10, 320 p.
39. Nothing to Envy - Barbara Demick 8/10, 324 p.
40. Wij zijn maar wij zijn niet geschift - Tim Krabbe 7/10, 416 p.
41. The Orphan Master's Son - Adam Johnson 8/10, 592 p.
42. Injustice - Clive Stafford Smith 5/10, 480 p.
Pages read in April: 3816
33. Ik, Zlatan - Zlatan Ibrahimovic 6/10, 334 p.
34. Sharp Objects - Gillian Flynn 7/10, 328 p.
35. 7 Days - Deon Meyer 8/10, 348 p.
36. Escape from Camp 14 - Blaine Harden 8/10, 242 p.
37. Left Neglected - Lisa Genova 8/10, 432 p.
38. Bonk - Mary Roach 6/10, 320 p.
39. Nothing to Envy - Barbara Demick 8/10, 324 p.
40. Wij zijn maar wij zijn niet geschift - Tim Krabbe 7/10, 416 p.
41. The Orphan Master's Son - Adam Johnson 8/10, 592 p.
42. Injustice - Clive Stafford Smith 5/10, 480 p.
Pages read in April: 3816
6wilkiec
May
43. The Secret River - Kate Grenville 9/10, 352 p.
44. The Keeper of Lost Causes - Jussi Adler-Olsen 8/10, 512 p.
45. Hoe sms't een Chinees - Eppo Konig 6/10, 234 p.
46. Dissolution - C.J. Sansom 8/10, 464 p.
47. Der Dativ ist dem Genitiv sein Tod - Bastian Sick 7/10, 240 p.
48. Der Dativ ist dem Genitiv sein Tod: Folge 2 - Bastian Sick 7/10, 268 p.
49. Der Dativ ist dem Genitiv sein Tod: Folge 3 - Bastian Sick 7/10, 274 p.
50. Congo - David van Reybrouck 8/10, 680 p.
51. Verhalen uit de Ambulance - Mariette Middelbeek 8/10, 176 p.
52. The Absent One - Jussi Adler-Olsen 7/10, 685 p.
53. The Observations - Jane Harris 8/10, 546 p.
Pages read in May: 4431
43. The Secret River - Kate Grenville 9/10, 352 p.
44. The Keeper of Lost Causes - Jussi Adler-Olsen 8/10, 512 p.
45. Hoe sms't een Chinees - Eppo Konig 6/10, 234 p.
46. Dissolution - C.J. Sansom 8/10, 464 p.
47. Der Dativ ist dem Genitiv sein Tod - Bastian Sick 7/10, 240 p.
48. Der Dativ ist dem Genitiv sein Tod: Folge 2 - Bastian Sick 7/10, 268 p.
49. Der Dativ ist dem Genitiv sein Tod: Folge 3 - Bastian Sick 7/10, 274 p.
50. Congo - David van Reybrouck 8/10, 680 p.
51. Verhalen uit de Ambulance - Mariette Middelbeek 8/10, 176 p.
52. The Absent One - Jussi Adler-Olsen 7/10, 685 p.
53. The Observations - Jane Harris 8/10, 546 p.
Pages read in May: 4431
7wilkiec
June
54. Het zevende kind - Erik Valeur 9/10, 720 p.
55. Papillion - Henri Charriere 7/10, 612 p.
56. Dead before Dying - Deon Meyer 8/10, 432 p.
57. Dark Fire - C.J. Sansom 9/10, 608 p.
58. Still Alice - Lisa Genova 9/10, 400 p.
59. Of ik gek ben - Michiel Stroink 7/10, 238 p.
Pages read in June: 3010
54. Het zevende kind - Erik Valeur 9/10, 720 p.
55. Papillion - Henri Charriere 7/10, 612 p.
56. Dead before Dying - Deon Meyer 8/10, 432 p.
57. Dark Fire - C.J. Sansom 9/10, 608 p.
58. Still Alice - Lisa Genova 9/10, 400 p.
59. Of ik gek ben - Michiel Stroink 7/10, 238 p.
Pages read in June: 3010
8wilkiec
July
60. Sister - Rosamund Lupton 8/10, 384 p.
61. The Devil in the White City - Erik Larson 7/10, 496 p.
62. Child 44 - Tom Rob Smith 8/10, 512 p.
63. The Family - Mario Puzo 4/10, 608 p.
64. A Conspiracy of Faith - Jussi Adler-Olsen 8/10, 773 p.
65. Before I Go to Sleep - S.J. Watson 7/10, 500 p.
66. A Fine Balance - Rohinton Mistry 10/10, 768 p.
67. Blood Safari - Deon Meyer 7/10, 576 p.
Pages read in July: 4617
60. Sister - Rosamund Lupton 8/10, 384 p.
61. The Devil in the White City - Erik Larson 7/10, 496 p.
62. Child 44 - Tom Rob Smith 8/10, 512 p.
63. The Family - Mario Puzo 4/10, 608 p.
64. A Conspiracy of Faith - Jussi Adler-Olsen 8/10, 773 p.
65. Before I Go to Sleep - S.J. Watson 7/10, 500 p.
66. A Fine Balance - Rohinton Mistry 10/10, 768 p.
67. Blood Safari - Deon Meyer 7/10, 576 p.
Pages read in July: 4617
9wilkiec
August
68. The Bat - Jo Nesbo 6/10, 432 p.
69. Behind the Scenes at the Museum - Kate Atkinson 3/10, 496 p.
70. Case Histories - Kate Atkinson 8/10, 400 p.
71. This Side of Brightness - Colum McCann 7/10, 304 p.
72. The Redbreast - Jo Nesbo 8/10, 656 p.
73. The Know-It-All - A.J. Jacobs 7/10, 400 p.
74. Aarsrivalen, scheldkarbonades en terminale baden - Ewoud Sanders 7/10, 124 p.
75. Nemesis - Jo Nesbo 9/10, 720 p.
76. The Devil's Star - Jo Nesbo 9/10, 544 p.
Pages read in August: 4076
68. The Bat - Jo Nesbo 6/10, 432 p.
69. Behind the Scenes at the Museum - Kate Atkinson 3/10, 496 p.
70. Case Histories - Kate Atkinson 8/10, 400 p.
71. This Side of Brightness - Colum McCann 7/10, 304 p.
72. The Redbreast - Jo Nesbo 8/10, 656 p.
73. The Know-It-All - A.J. Jacobs 7/10, 400 p.
74. Aarsrivalen, scheldkarbonades en terminale baden - Ewoud Sanders 7/10, 124 p.
75. Nemesis - Jo Nesbo 9/10, 720 p.
76. The Devil's Star - Jo Nesbo 9/10, 544 p.
Pages read in August: 4076
10wilkiec
September
77. In the Woods - Tana French 5/10, 608 p.
78. Team of Rivals - Doris Kearns Goodwin 10/10, 1241 p.
79. The Weight of Silence - Heather Gudenkauf 6/10, 418 p.
80. Alias Grace - Margaret Atwood 6/10, 624 p.
Pages read in September: 2891
77. In the Woods - Tana French 5/10, 608 p.
78. Team of Rivals - Doris Kearns Goodwin 10/10, 1241 p.
79. The Weight of Silence - Heather Gudenkauf 6/10, 418 p.
80. Alias Grace - Margaret Atwood 6/10, 624 p.
Pages read in September: 2891
11wilkiec
Favourite reads 2013:
Fiction
- A Fine Balance - Rohinton Mistry
- Here Be Dragons - Sharon Kay Penman
- Thirteen Hours - Deon Meyer
- Het zevende kind - Erik Valeur
- Nemesis - Jo Nesbo
- The Secret River - Kate Grenville
- Still Alice - Lisa Genova
- The Moonstone - Wilkie Collins
- PAAZ - Myrthe van der Meer
Non-fiction
- Team of Rivals - Doris Kearns Goodwin
- Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers - Mary Roach
Fiction
- A Fine Balance - Rohinton Mistry
- Here Be Dragons - Sharon Kay Penman
- Thirteen Hours - Deon Meyer
- Het zevende kind - Erik Valeur
- Nemesis - Jo Nesbo
- The Secret River - Kate Grenville
- Still Alice - Lisa Genova
- The Moonstone - Wilkie Collins
- PAAZ - Myrthe van der Meer
Non-fiction
- Team of Rivals - Doris Kearns Goodwin
- Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers - Mary Roach
13wilkiec
73. The Know-It-All - A.J. Jacobs
400 p.
To fill the gaps in his knowledge, A.J. Jacobs sets for himself the task of reading all thirty-two volumes of the Encyclopaedia Britannica. That is 33,000 pages, 44 million words. His wife Julie tells him it's a waste of time, his friends believe he is losing his mind, and his father, a brilliant attorney who had once attempted the same feat and quit somewhere around Borneo, is encouraging but unconvinced.
Jacobs has written a hilarious memoir about facts I never knew and will soon forget:
* An opossum has thirteen nipples.
* Oysters can change their sex.
* The best ventriloquists are Eskimos and Zulus.
* Scrabble is also available in braille.
* Napoleon loved ice-skating.
7/10
14wilkiec
Monica, yes. He finished it completely with the last word 'Zywiec':
Zywiec is a town in south-central Poland. It's known for its large breweries and a 16th-century sculpture called The Dormant Virgin.
Zywiec is a town in south-central Poland. It's known for its large breweries and a 16th-century sculpture called The Dormant Virgin.
16RebaRelishesReading
Love the picture. That's a Van Gogh I've never seen before.
17wilkiec
Hi Reba!
This Van Gogh is from a private collection in Switzerland. 'Romans Parisiens' from 1887.
This Van Gogh is from a private collection in Switzerland. 'Romans Parisiens' from 1887.
18Crazymamie
Lovely new thread! I see you are reading Jo Nesbo - LOVE him! I need to get back to Harry Hole; I am ready for The Snowman.
19Trifolia
I never read any books by Jo Nesbo, but he soounds like an author whose books I'd enjoy. And a series, yay!
20PaulCranswick
Diana - congratulations on your latest thread. I have been watching the ENECO tour but the absence of hillocks is not really my cup of tea.
23wilkiec
Thank you, Paul.
Today's Time Trial is in Limburg, with 2 hillocks in 13 km. And tomorrow in Belgium will have La Redoute and the Muur van Geraarsbergen. You probably watched the flattest stage of the week :-)
Today's Time Trial is in Limburg, with 2 hillocks in 13 km. And tomorrow in Belgium will have La Redoute and the Muur van Geraarsbergen. You probably watched the flattest stage of the week :-)
24wilkiec
74. Aarsrivalen, scheldkarbonades en terminale baden - Ewoud Sanders
124 p.
This is a book about the Dutch language. Linguistics, grammar, spelling, with many examples of mistakes. Very entertaining!
7/10
25wilkiec
75. Nemesis - Jo Nesbo
720 p.
My first Jo Nesbo was ok. My second Jo Nesbo was good. This third one is outstanding!
I'm a big fan of Harry Hole now. Nesbo has excellent storytelling abilities and writes gripping thrillers.
9/10
26wilkiec
In Jo Nesbo's books The Redbreast and Nemesis is one particular story line, that seems to end in the next book of the series.
This story line is very gripping and I have no other choice... I'll start The Devil's Star this evening!
This story line is very gripping and I have no other choice... I'll start The Devil's Star this evening!
27LizzieD
How is it that we never met since we have some good reading in common?
Thank you for giving us that Van Gogh, unknown to me too!
You're reading circles around me........ I have the 3 easy-to-get Nesbos, and now all that remains is to read them.
Thank you for giving us that Van Gogh, unknown to me too!
You're reading circles around me........ I have the 3 easy-to-get Nesbos, and now all that remains is to read them.
28wilkiec
Hi Peggy, nice to meet you!
I'm only here for the first year, maybe that's why? I'm Diana, from the Netherlands, 1 husband, 2 sons, 1 cat.
I'm going to star your thread. It's nice to have some good reading in common, isn't it? :-)
I'm only here for the first year, maybe that's why? I'm Diana, from the Netherlands, 1 husband, 2 sons, 1 cat.
I'm going to star your thread. It's nice to have some good reading in common, isn't it? :-)
30wilkiec
76. The Devil's Star - Jo Nesbo
544 p.
Great! Harry Hole kept me awake because I wanted to read on and on.
9/10
33luvamystery65
Woo hoo! on hitting 75 and your Scandi Crime reading spree!
39LizzieD
Karin Fossum! Karin Fossum! Karin Fossum!
40wilkiec
Did someone mention Karin Fossum?
I don't know her yet, Peggy, but I have one of her books in my mountain TBR, Don't look back.
I don't know her yet, Peggy, but I have one of her books in my mountain TBR, Don't look back.
41wilkiec
Yes, today starts the Vuelta d'Espagna, 3 weeks of cycling in Spain. There will be many mountains, the 2 Dutch guys (Bauke Mollema and Laurens ten Dam) are in again.
Today's the Team Time Trial. I guess Nibali has a good chance to win this Vuelta, but there are more big contestants.
Today's the Team Time Trial. I guess Nibali has a good chance to win this Vuelta, but there are more big contestants.
44kidzdoc
>43 wilkiec: Like!
45souloftherose
#1 Love that painting by van Gogh Diana. I love his art and that's one I hadn't come across before.
Congratulations on reading 75 books!
Congratulations on reading 75 books!
48wilkiec
It's a week full of heavy stress :-(
I read the papers and magazines, but don't ask me the details... No books, no concentration at all.
I read the papers and magazines, but don't ask me the details... No books, no concentration at all.
49LizzieD
It's Humpday, and this week will end! Wishing you some peace and grace!
And I especially love the van Eyck!
And I especially love the van Eyck!
50souloftherose
#48 Sorry to hear that Diana. Sending hugs....
51wilkiec
That's sweet, Peggy and Heather, thanks. x
I know, this too will pass. Hoping next week will be better, though.
I know, this too will pass. Hoping next week will be better, though.
52Trifolia
Hi Diana, I hope things are improving for you.
I can recommend Karin Fossum to you. It's probably best if you start reading her books in order though.
I can recommend Karin Fossum to you. It's probably best if you start reading her books in order though.
53PaulCranswick
Well done for Scandinavianly skipping past 75 Diana. I am enjoying the rugged contours of the Vuelta. I can see a Spanish combination taking Nibali down. Have a lovely weekend.
54luvamystery65
Diana regarding Karin Fossum start with In the Darkness: An Inspector Sejer Novel before you read Don't Look Back.
55wilkiec
Monica and Roberta, I faithfully ordered In the Darkness: An Inspector Sejer Novel. Couldn't risk to start with the wrong book ;-)
56wilkiec
Paul, I think Moreno stands out in the Spanish department. I hope your week is filled with good things.
57wilkiec
Today is son's first university day. Last week he had introductions, but the real work started early this morning.
Son is autistic and communication with anyone outside the family is hard for him. But he's very intelligent and truly interested in people. Now he's chosen a study in which communication is perhaps the most important factor. That's extremely brave!
He's made a difficult choice, but if he wants it, I think he can do it.
Of course he was afraid of going this morning, and I can feel his fear. Will he be seen and respected?
Hence all the stress in me too, as his mama. The same stress that stopped me from reading books for over a week. *shock*
Son is autistic and communication with anyone outside the family is hard for him. But he's very intelligent and truly interested in people. Now he's chosen a study in which communication is perhaps the most important factor. That's extremely brave!
He's made a difficult choice, but if he wants it, I think he can do it.
Of course he was afraid of going this morning, and I can feel his fear. Will he be seen and respected?
Hence all the stress in me too, as his mama. The same stress that stopped me from reading books for over a week. *shock*
58PaulCranswick
Wishing your son every success as he ventures into University life. He does sound like a brave young man and I am sure that once he has adjusted to new surroundings he will thrive in a seat devoted to learning.
59wilkiec
Thank you so much, Paul!
I can't to wait to hear about his first day. Only 5.5 hours to go...
I can't to wait to hear about his first day. Only 5.5 hours to go...
62msf59
Hi Diana- Just checking in! Love the paintings! I read and enjoyed the 1st 3 Nesbo books, (published in the US) starting with the the Redbreast and that still remains my favorite. I NEED to get to the Redeemer.
63luvamystery65
Momma bear I hope the stress is relieved soon and that your son does well at university. You are both in my thoughts and prayers.
64wilkiec
Darryl, thank you!
My son's first day at university went well. He interacted with other students! His morning class (somewhat vague) was okay, in the afternoon he had his first psychology class. It was about the development of people, i.c. the baby. That was a direct hit. He could tell me all about reflexes :-)
Today has his first class in Communication and Psychology again.
University is in a city near our village, and my brave young man returned home by bus (30 minutes), alone. Awesome!
My son's first day at university went well. He interacted with other students! His morning class (somewhat vague) was okay, in the afternoon he had his first psychology class. It was about the development of people, i.c. the baby. That was a direct hit. He could tell me all about reflexes :-)
Today has his first class in Communication and Psychology again.
University is in a city near our village, and my brave young man returned home by bus (30 minutes), alone. Awesome!
65wilkiec
Hi Mark!
I think my next Nesbo book will also be The Redeemer. I don't know when that will be, but Nesbo rocks!
I think my next Nesbo book will also be The Redeemer. I don't know when that will be, but Nesbo rocks!
66wilkiec
Thank you, Roberta!
This momma bear did sleep last night, very nice for a change ;-)
The level of his study shouldn't cause any problems, son's challenge will be his autism and shy, introvert character. My husband and I and my younger son are not autistic, but being shy and introvert is something we all share.
I'm a very proud momma. And I'm going to plan my next book, because all went well and the peak of stress has to be gone.
This momma bear did sleep last night, very nice for a change ;-)
The level of his study shouldn't cause any problems, son's challenge will be his autism and shy, introvert character. My husband and I and my younger son are not autistic, but being shy and introvert is something we all share.
I'm a very proud momma. And I'm going to plan my next book, because all went well and the peak of stress has to be gone.
68kidzdoc
Great news about your son's successful first day at university, Diana! Please keep us posted on his progress.
69wilkiec
Thank you Rhian!
It is great news, isn't it, Darryl. He's now waiting for his bus home and we're chatting via whatsapp ;-)
It is great news, isn't it, Darryl. He's now waiting for his bus home and we're chatting via whatsapp ;-)
70wilkiec
77. In the Woods - Tana French
608 p.
Hmpf. This wasn't my kind of book, I suppose. It's a thriller with a decent story. I just didn't like the style of writing and I'm not sure what's bothering me.
Anyway, I've finally read a book again!
5/10
71LizzieD
Diana, I'm on the cheering side. Your son sounds like a valiant soul - and so do you! I hope that all continues well with him - what a lot of growing he's opening himself to!
And I hope that you have something to read that rewards you. I'm currently enjoying The Daughters of Mars a LOT! (Australian sisters who are nurses on a hospital ship off Gallipoli in WWI - harrowing and pretty much un-put-down-able.)
And I hope that you have something to read that rewards you. I'm currently enjoying The Daughters of Mars a LOT! (Australian sisters who are nurses on a hospital ship off Gallipoli in WWI - harrowing and pretty much un-put-down-able.)
72wilkiec
Thank you, Peggy. Today was hot and rather difficult, son is very tired now.
Great to hear that The Daughters of Mars is such a good read: I ordered that book a week ago!
Great to hear that The Daughters of Mars is such a good read: I ordered that book a week ago!
73lkernagh
It has been a while since I was last over here, Diana I think it was pre Tour de France! Continuing to love the art you post on your threads.
Great to see your son is now in Uni and settling into his courses. That was a big adjustment for me after finishing high school with a graduating class of some 200 to find myself attending a University with a semester population of some 18,000!
I still need to get around to reading the French novels.... I will probably hold off and continue reading books that interest me instead.
Great to see your son is now in Uni and settling into his courses. That was a big adjustment for me after finishing high school with a graduating class of some 200 to find myself attending a University with a semester population of some 18,000!
I still need to get around to reading the French novels.... I will probably hold off and continue reading books that interest me instead.
74wilkiec
Hi Lori! Son's uni is a big one, but this first weeks, he has intensive courses with ..... *drums* ......
12 students. Sometimes 22 and 1 course is with 300+, but the rest of the week is filled with his group of 12. He thought he could make himself invisible, that's difficult now :-)
12 students. Sometimes 22 and 1 course is with 300+, but the rest of the week is filled with his group of 12. He thought he could make himself invisible, that's difficult now :-)
76RebaRelishesReading
Glad university is starting well for your son. Is he at Tilburg? Although I graduated from Utrecht I did some classes at Tilburg -- it has a very nice campus imho.
77TinaV95
Hey Diana! Congrats to your very brave son! He is showing tons of courage by facing his fears head on. And kudos to you for allowing him the freedom he needs despite your worries!
I can't imagine how hard it must be to watch him leave each morning. Big hugs to you!
I can't imagine how hard it must be to watch him leave each morning. Big hugs to you!
78kidzdoc
>75 wilkiec: Nice! Quite colorful and playful.
79wilkiec
Hi Reba, he's not at Tilburg. Utrecht was my favorite, but they were going to stop my study, so I did it in Leiden. :-)
85kidzdoc
That looks like a man in a chicken suit, reading a book. That would never be permitted in a library in the US (except in California).
What's going on in the bottom of the second photo? It looks like a man lying on a sofa, holding a large bottle of some liquid (presumably stronger than Diet Coke), and sporting a mischievously evil look on his face, as a woman stands over him. Even California libraries wouldn't allow that. Where the heck is this library anyway???
What's going on in the bottom of the second photo? It looks like a man lying on a sofa, holding a large bottle of some liquid (presumably stronger than Diet Coke), and sporting a mischievously evil look on his face, as a woman stands over him. Even California libraries wouldn't allow that. Where the heck is this library anyway???
86TinaV95
Don't forget to relax & recharge over the weekends! *Both you & your son! Lots of quiet time if you are both the introverted sort like I am!
87PaulCranswick
Diana - Like the LEGO library. There was a LEGOLAND theme park built over here which was behind schedule. The owners didn't like my explanation that it was late "Because they were still putting it together".
Have a lovely weekend.
Have a lovely weekend.
89wilkiec
Joe and Darryl, you made me laugh out loud. No idea who let the chicken in, nor that evil man. It couldn't be a Dutch library :-)
Paul, I love your explanation! :-) No humor, those owners.
I've got more Lego Libraries to share!
Paul, I love your explanation! :-) No humor, those owners.
I've got more Lego Libraries to share!
92msf59
Diana- Sorry, In the Woods didn't work for you. Opinion is so divided on this title. I was one on the strongly positive side.
Love the Lego libraries!
Love the Lego libraries!
93wilkiec
Hi Mark! That's true, and you can't like them all. I feel lucky that it's a positive reading year with many good rankings.
The Lego version of the St. Louis Public Library's Central Library was built in honor of its 100 year existence. I don't understand those people on the roof. Do they wear swords?
The Lego version of the St. Louis Public Library's Central Library was built in honor of its 100 year existence. I don't understand those people on the roof. Do they wear swords?
94souloftherose
Hi Diana. Glad to hear your son's first few days at university have gone ok and that you have been able to get some reading done :-)
Loving the Lego libraries - I'm always amazed at what people can do with Lego.
Loving the Lego libraries - I'm always amazed at what people can do with Lego.
95wilkiec
Hi Heather, thanks! I did read again, but I could have done much better. Still many papers and magazines :-)
96wilkiec
But tomorrow I'll start a serious book again, Team of Rivals about Abraham Lincoln. I'm looking forward to it!
98luvamystery65
Diana - I was unsure about In the Woods. I am reading The Likeness right now. Carrie was my favorite character in the first book. Currently, I feel as if she chucked her sense out the window.
Get some rest and find some peace this weekend.
Get some rest and find some peace this weekend.
99RebaRelishesReading
I hope you like Team of Rivals. I thought it was excellent and learned a lot of things about some prominent Americans that I had heard of but knew little about.
100wilkiec
Roberta, I remembered you read Tana French. I hope you like The Likeness.
101wilkiec
Reba, I only read the short introduction yesterday, because of other activities. Doris Kearns Goodwin's writing style immediately attracts me and I hope today will bring some reading time.
104msf59
I loved Team of Rivals. We did a Group Read in preparation for the Lincoln film. I hope you enjoy it.
107wilkiec
We've had a hot summer and September started very warm. But yesterday the weather finally changed and now it's raining cats and dogs.
My husband (motor) and sons (bicycle) have arrived at work/uni/school wetter than wet.
My husband (motor) and sons (bicycle) have arrived at work/uni/school wetter than wet.
108wilkiec
Last Sunday, I watched a documentary on Dutch TV about David Grossman. It was interesting and touching and I'd like to share it with you.
http://www.uitzendinggemist.nl/afleveringen/1364748
This is the link to the program. It's English spoken :-)
http://www.uitzendinggemist.nl/afleveringen/1364748
This is the link to the program. It's English spoken :-)
109wilkiec
Drum roll please! We are thrilled to announce that the six novels shortlisted for the 2013 Man Booker Prize are:
We Need New Names by NoViolet Bulawayo
The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton
Harvest by Jim Crace
The Lowland by Jhumpa Lahiri
A Tale for the Time Being by Ruth Ozeki
The Testament of Mary by Colm Toibin
Huge congratulations to all of our shortlisted authors!
We Need New Names by NoViolet Bulawayo
The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton
Harvest by Jim Crace
The Lowland by Jhumpa Lahiri
A Tale for the Time Being by Ruth Ozeki
The Testament of Mary by Colm Toibin
Huge congratulations to all of our shortlisted authors!
112wilkiec
Colum McCann's Transatlantic is on my Mountain TBR.
Of the shortlist, my order of Eleanor Catton's The Luminaries is somewhere above the sea between England and the Netherlands :-)
Of the shortlist, my order of Eleanor Catton's The Luminaries is somewhere above the sea between England and the Netherlands :-)
113wilkiec
German Thomas Bach is the new President of the International Olympic Comite. No surprise, because he was the favorite.
116wilkiec
No Darryl, I haven't. My Transatlantic is waiting for me.
And The Luminaries are on their way. This was caused by an excellent review of a certain Kidzdoc. I had to order it immediately! ;-)
And The Luminaries are on their way. This was caused by an excellent review of a certain Kidzdoc. I had to order it immediately! ;-)
117Chatterbox
Of all the artwork here, I have fallen in love with the van Eyck. He really was such an early master at capturing personality, and detail -- as shown in those hands...
Kudos to your son for his courage in taking this step! The good thing about university vs high school is that you're not in a group of 12 all day, so there is an ability to balance that kind of inability to be invisible with time to oneself. It's all about balance... (quoth another introvert).
Re The Know It All; I have kind of resisted this book as it feels like what I think of as 'stunt memoir' -- the idea of creating an odd challenge for oneself in large part to serve as the focus of a book that is about ME, JUST ME. He's done at least two other of these yearlong "humble quests" (which IMO are anything but humble) -- one to live Biblically, the other to improve his health. I can understand doing one of these, on a subject you're really passionate about, but three or four?? It's a formula. But please ignore me; I'm grumpy today.
Kudos to your son for his courage in taking this step! The good thing about university vs high school is that you're not in a group of 12 all day, so there is an ability to balance that kind of inability to be invisible with time to oneself. It's all about balance... (quoth another introvert).
Re The Know It All; I have kind of resisted this book as it feels like what I think of as 'stunt memoir' -- the idea of creating an odd challenge for oneself in large part to serve as the focus of a book that is about ME, JUST ME. He's done at least two other of these yearlong "humble quests" (which IMO are anything but humble) -- one to live Biblically, the other to improve his health. I can understand doing one of these, on a subject you're really passionate about, but three or four?? It's a formula. But please ignore me; I'm grumpy today.
118wilkiec
Hi Suz. I also noticed the hands in the van Eyck, especially the left one. Pure beauty.
My son is searching for that balance all the time now. The social interaction and communication wear him out, but he seems to gain something of it too. Maybe that's just my wishful thinking, we'll see.
I agree with your comments on A.J. Jacobs, it is a formula.
I understand you lived/worked in New York on 9/11 12 years ago? I can't imagine how difficult it is to experience such a tragedy in your close circle. Even I know exactly where I was when I heard it, how I raced home with my 2 young children and sat in front of the television for days.
It's normal to be grumpy or angry or sad. Hugs.
My son is searching for that balance all the time now. The social interaction and communication wear him out, but he seems to gain something of it too. Maybe that's just my wishful thinking, we'll see.
I agree with your comments on A.J. Jacobs, it is a formula.
I understand you lived/worked in New York on 9/11 12 years ago? I can't imagine how difficult it is to experience such a tragedy in your close circle. Even I know exactly where I was when I heard it, how I raced home with my 2 young children and sat in front of the television for days.
It's normal to be grumpy or angry or sad. Hugs.
120wilkiec
Son started to worry about his choice of study. We've frequently told him to just start and see, he can always decide to choose something else.
Now he's wondering if an academic study in Psychology wouldn't be better/more interesting for him. A more intellectual challenge, that's certain. Maybe less direct confrontations. Another University.
I don't know how I can help him in the most positive way. It has to be his choice, it's his life. I don't think it matters what my choice would be.
I wish I could take his biggest difficulties away. Sigh.
Now he's wondering if an academic study in Psychology wouldn't be better/more interesting for him. A more intellectual challenge, that's certain. Maybe less direct confrontations. Another University.
I don't know how I can help him in the most positive way. It has to be his choice, it's his life. I don't think it matters what my choice would be.
I wish I could take his biggest difficulties away. Sigh.
121msf59
Hi Diana- I loved TransAtlantic, so I am bit disappointed it didn't make the cut. I think it was just a little better than the Lowland, which I also enjoyed.
Hope your week is going well.
Hope your week is going well.
122wilkiec
Hi Mark, I have high expectations of TransAtlantic. It's good to hear that you loved it!
123wilkiec
78. Team of Rivals - Doris Kearns Goodwin
1241 p.
Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln. This is a brilliant book by a fantastic writer.
Excellent read!
10/10
130msf59
Glad you loved Team of Rivals! Love those women reading!
132wilkiec
Next is a debut novel: The Weight of Silence by Heather Gudenkauf. I hope to start it tomorrow.
133Chatterbox
Loving the Matisse
You're absolutely right about it being his choice and the fact that you know that and you're there to listen & support is really all you can do... That said, there might be a way to gently remind him that a week or two is a difficult measure to gauge how things are going. I remember my first months of university -- age 17, living on another continent from my family -- as being utterly, completely traumatic. Looking back, I don't know how I got through it. I do know that I wanted to leave. I ultimately stayed, and while I could have left and had a different kind of experience elsewhere, I couldn't definitively say it would have been better. I do know now, decades later, that leaving in the first few weeks might have been a relief at the time, but I would have felt disapppointed in myself later on. I did walk away from my graduate school program years later, for what were very clear and valid reasons, and have never for one second regretted it. In part, I think the lack of regret was because I not only had specific reasons for my decision but something clear in mind that I wanted to do instead -- so I was moving on to something and not just away from it.
Yes, 9/11 is a difficult day. I saw things that still give me nightmares, and I still miss the people I knew who died that day. I actually don't remember a lot of the 18 months around that time frame, which included the kidnapping & murder of a former colleague and the death of another colleague and also another friend, and a bunch of other stuff. Tks for the kind words.
You're absolutely right about it being his choice and the fact that you know that and you're there to listen & support is really all you can do... That said, there might be a way to gently remind him that a week or two is a difficult measure to gauge how things are going. I remember my first months of university -- age 17, living on another continent from my family -- as being utterly, completely traumatic. Looking back, I don't know how I got through it. I do know that I wanted to leave. I ultimately stayed, and while I could have left and had a different kind of experience elsewhere, I couldn't definitively say it would have been better. I do know now, decades later, that leaving in the first few weeks might have been a relief at the time, but I would have felt disapppointed in myself later on. I did walk away from my graduate school program years later, for what were very clear and valid reasons, and have never for one second regretted it. In part, I think the lack of regret was because I not only had specific reasons for my decision but something clear in mind that I wanted to do instead -- so I was moving on to something and not just away from it.
Yes, 9/11 is a difficult day. I saw things that still give me nightmares, and I still miss the people I knew who died that day. I actually don't remember a lot of the 18 months around that time frame, which included the kidnapping & murder of a former colleague and the death of another colleague and also another friend, and a bunch of other stuff. Tks for the kind words.
134wilkiec
What a terrible time for you Suz, pff.
Thank you for sharing your experiences of university. It's that step you mention: moving on to something. This 2013-2014 year, he stays where he is and works for his first certificate in June/July 2014. That's a moment to choose to either continue here, or moving (up) to Psychology.
Thank you for sharing your experiences of university. It's that step you mention: moving on to something. This 2013-2014 year, he stays where he is and works for his first certificate in June/July 2014. That's a moment to choose to either continue here, or moving (up) to Psychology.
142PaulCranswick
Well to be fair she hasn't quite finished the book! Have a lovely weekend my dear as the Vuelta closes on its finish. Will Nibali hold on?
143wilkiec
Haha Paul, she didn't get the point!
The Vuelta is turning out exciting in the last days, with Horner at 3 seconds. Tomorrow should be a deciding stage. A lovely weekend to you and your family too! x
The Vuelta is turning out exciting in the last days, with Horner at 3 seconds. Tomorrow should be a deciding stage. A lovely weekend to you and your family too! x
145jnwelch
I loved Team of Rivals, Diana. Did you see Spielberg's Lincoln movie, based on part of it? That's terrific, too, IMO.
Beautiful paintings. Did you happen to notice there's someone reading in each of them?
Beautiful paintings. Did you happen to notice there's someone reading in each of them?
146wilkiec
Joe, I wanted to read the book before I see the film. I hope to watch it some time!
I'm glad you like the paintings. Now you mention it, there's someone reading in each of them...
Strange ;-)
I'm glad you like the paintings. Now you mention it, there's someone reading in each of them...
Strange ;-)
148RebaRelishesReading
>145 jnwelch: I too loved Team of Rivals. Saw Loncoln twice and loved it both times.
Your "stay where you are this year and then decide plan" sounds very wise.
Your "stay where you are this year and then decide plan" sounds very wise.
161wilkiec
And Horner wins the Vuelta, at almost 42 years old. What kind of doping does he use, and why is it so good?
162Chatterbox
Like the chair in #155, but why does the woman in #156 still have her shoes on when she's curled up on her chaise reading??
164wilkiec
The Vuelta officially ended today and Christopher Horner did win. Now it's up to the World Championship races in Florence!
165wilkiec
It's great to lurk on the threads and read that so many people are busy watching football at the same time. I noticed the term 'touchdown' a couple of times.
Is your American football similar to the English rugby?
Is your American football similar to the English rugby?
166wilkiec
79. The Weight of Silence - Heather Gudenkauf
418 p.
Blurb
Two little girls are missing. Both are seven years old and have been missing for at least sixteen hours.
Calli Clark is a dreamer. A sweet, gentle girl, Calli suffers from selective mutism, brought on by a tragedy she experienced as a toddler. Her mother Antonia tries her best to help, but is trapped in a marriage to a violent husband.
Petra Gregory is Calli's best friend, her soul mate and her voice. But neither Petra nor Calli have been heard from since their disappearance was discovered.
This is a rather simple story, sometimes written in an awkward way. Not bad for a debut novel, but it left me somewhat indifferent.
6/10
167wilkiec
Since a couple of years, I've got the western series of Larry McMurtry on my shelves.
I'm planning to read them in this order:
1. Dead Man's Walk
2. Comanche's Moon
3. Lonesome Dove
4. Streets of Laredo
LT gives a publication order and an order of story. I guess I want to read the story in order and I hope this is the right one.
I'm planning to read them in this order:
1. Dead Man's Walk
2. Comanche's Moon
3. Lonesome Dove
4. Streets of Laredo
LT gives a publication order and an order of story. I guess I want to read the story in order and I hope this is the right one.
171kidzdoc
>165 wilkiec: I watched a couple of rugby matches last year when I visited London. There are some similarities to American football, but I was left befuddled by several features of it. I thought I was watching a Monty Python skit, where wacky rules were made up as the match progressed.
172wilkiec
Darryl, when Monty Python comes to mind, there certainly are many differences between American football and rugby. ;-)
173wilkiec
I'm working on another laptop. This is no Apple and it has Windows 8; this is new to me. I have to learn new features, cool.
174wilkiec
Many new Windows 8 things on my computer; I'm sure I'll never use most of them, so I'm going to clean up a bit. I'm not used to such a full screen.
175msf59
Hi Diana- I say, skip the first 2 and go straight to the masterpiece, Lonesome Dove. He did write that one first and it is head and shoulders above the others, which I have also read. You can always go back and read the others. Of course this is just my Humble Opinion.
176wilkiec
Hi Mark, that's a good suggestion. But if I read the best one first, I may not read the others. Did you think the others were also good, or was it a deception after reading Lonesome Dove?
177msf59
I think the others are worth reading but I would just start with the Big Gun first. "Streets" picks up after LD, so that one is also worthy.
178wilkiec
Thanks Mark! I'll plan Lonesome Dove first. Don't know exactly when, though :-)
179wilkiec
I know there are many fans of Margaret Atwood on LT. I've never read anything by her, I'm not good in SF, dystiopian, fantasy.
Here's a helpful scheme for her books:
Here's a helpful scheme for her books:
180wilkiec
Maybe Alias Grace will do for me. Historical, real, but fiction, I can handle that :-)
181lkernagh
Great Margaret Atwood scheme! I haven't read any Atwood either but judging by this, it looks like my best bets are either The Blind Assassin or Alias Grace. ;-)
182msf59
I think Alias Grace is a fine place to start and then you might be able to ease into The Blind Assassin. The Handmaid's Tale was my first and remains my favorite.
183PaulCranswick
Love the book store frontage Diana. I also agree with your chronological take on the McMurtry reading order. I have read Dead Man's Walk and may read Commanche Moon this year.
185wilkiec
Mark, I'm determined to start Alias Grace, I've even found that one and The Blind Assassin in my house. That's funny, I don't think I've ever bought a book by Margaret Atwood.
My youngest son has read pieces of The Handmaid's Tale in class. When he showed me these, I didn't understand a thing...
My youngest son has read pieces of The Handmaid's Tale in class. When he showed me these, I didn't understand a thing...
186wilkiec
Thank you Paul, the book store frontage brings back memories of a very small shop with antiquarian books in Leiden. I hardly ever found what I wanted, but it was so charming.
I'm not sure yet in what order I'm going to read Larry McMurtry. You and Mark both have good ideas about that. Anyway, it will probably be 2014 when I'm at the point of reading his books, enough time to ponder :-)
I'm not sure yet in what order I'm going to read Larry McMurtry. You and Mark both have good ideas about that. Anyway, it will probably be 2014 when I'm at the point of reading his books, enough time to ponder :-)
188wilkiec
Does someone have a clue what this pirate-speak is about? Does the USA have a pirate day?
Have mercy with the non-native speaker, I don't understand a thing :-)
Arrrrrrrrrrrrr.
Have mercy with the non-native speaker, I don't understand a thing :-)
Arrrrrrrrrrrrr.
189jnwelch
It started in the U.S., me bucko, but it's intended to be international. Here's WIkipedia on it: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Talk_Like_a_Pirate_Day.
Note that according to Wikipedia, it has become a holiday for the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster, whatever that may be.
Note that according to Wikipedia, it has become a holiday for the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster, whatever that may be.
191RebaRelishesReading
First thing I did when I came on today was turn the stupid pirate speak thing off!! puleeese!!
Really like the Margaret Atwood diagram. If I decide to read more of hers I'll make use of it.
Really like the Margaret Atwood diagram. If I decide to read more of hers I'll make use of it.
193wilkiec
Youngest son had an extended biology practicum by university students today. He brought home peppers and tomatoes in different colors. We know what our dinner will be.
195luvamystery65
Diana I agree with Mark about Lonesome Dove first. It will invest you in the characters and the scenery. The rest is not as great but it does complete the picture. Don't rush through Lonesome Dove. It's worthy of your time.
196Trifolia
I hope you'll like Alias Grace, Diana. I read it a short while ago, so if you want my opinion, you can find it here.
I love the art on your thread, btw.
I love the art on your thread, btw.
197PaulCranswick
Diana - Who do you fancy for the World Road Race title? A hometown win possibly but I have an inkling that Boasson-Hagen is due a big win.
198cammykitty
I've seen the Flying Spaghetti Monster, even met a few "church" members. They are the kind of people who like to scuttle ships run by Intelligent Design people. As for Pirate-Speak day, well, it's an excuse to read Treasure Island in English class but doesn't seem to have much more influence on the US.
199wilkiec
Roberta, I'll keep in mind not to rush through Lonesome Dove.
Monica, I've read your review of Alias Grace. We seem to share our opinion of it.
Monica, I've read your review of Alias Grace. We seem to share our opinion of it.
This topic was continued by Diana (Wilkie) reads, Part 9.
