thornton37814 (Lori) reads 75+ in 2014 - 6th thread

The umbrellas have not yet arrived, but the new patio is complete.

Here's a view of the landscaping.



Now that the preliminaries on the new thread are done, it is time to begin posting my reads!

78. The Yearling by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings

Date Completed: 1 Sep 2014

Category: Longer

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #12: Read a book that has a title that starts with a Q, U, V, X, Y, or Z

Rating: 4 stars

Review: Jody becomes close to the fawn of a deer that was killed to draw out the poison from a snake bite incurred by his father. The story, set in the northeastern corner of Florida, is a classic. It is written in dialect of a simpler time when the story was set. It would make a great read-aloud story for upper elementary students. This was a re-read for me.

Gorgeous photos. Very inviting. Happy new thread, Lori.

Hi Lori, I lost track of your last thread, will try to do better this time. Happy New Thread and hope you're having a great Labour Day!

Happy Labour Day, Lori. That new patio looks like a great place to soak up some sunshine while turning some pages.

Love the pictures. Looks great!! I'm about to hit book#80 for the year. Yay!! :) Happy Labor Day!!

>3 Ameise1: Thanks for the well-wishes. I think it will be quite popular once the weather cools down a bit. I would not have wanted to be out there without the umbrellas the day I took that photo.

>4 Smiler69: Thanks. It's easy to lose track of threads. Hope you've had a good day also.

>5 DeltaQueen50: I don't do heat and humidity well, so I'll have to hope for a sunny day with cooler weather!

>6 mitchma: I'm not too far behind you in the book numbers. I'm just way behind where I usually am.

Happy New Thread! Those are nice photos.

I have The Yearling on my TBR shelf. Maybe I should read it.

>8 tymfos: If you decide to read it, I hope you enjoy it.

A new thread and a new patio as well. Those tables look inviting and the area looks so clean and brand new.

Happy New Thread, Lori!

>10 Familyhistorian: It will be nice when it gets cooler enough for them to really be inviting.

>11 scaifea: Thanks.

79. A Dish Taken Cold by Anne Perry

Date Completed: 2 Sep 2014

Category: Seasons in the Sun

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #10: Read a book that takes place in a country in which you have never set foot

Rating: 3 stars

Review: This novella, set during the French revolution, is a departure from Anne Perry's usual Victorian London settings. Celie left her infant with Amandine where he died in his sleep. Celie discovers that her lover Georges was with Amandine at the time of the infant's death. She is determined to make both of them pay. The Revolution is heating up and things become more dangerous for all. I was a bit disappointed in the plot. Perhaps the short length of the book rushed the plot so that the tension did not build in the manner it would have in a longer novel. For whatever reason, it fell a little flat. It's still a good read, but not outstanding.

Congrats on the new thread, Lori! That new patio up top looks big and inviting.

Happy new thread! I love that patio!

Patio + mature trees = good times ahead. Happy New Thread, Lori!

>14 jnwelch: I wish it had a few more tables. I saw students out there today.

>15 lkernagh: It is nice.

>16 LizzieD: They were smart to put it in such a shady location.

80. Go Tell It On the Mountain by James Baldwin

Date Completed: 4 Sep 2014

Category: Because He Lives

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #11: Read a book that was first published after 1950 and adapted to film or tv

Rating: 4 stars

Review: John Grimes is expected to follow in his father's footsteps and become a preacher. John believes his father hates him. There's just one problem. He has not been saved or called to preach. Most of the action occurs on his 14th birthday at the Harlem church as a result of the prayers of members. We learn about his family and his true relationship to the man he calls father through flashbacks, mostly in the prayer chapters. It's a classic work of African-American fiction and one which will resonate with many readers, particularly those with a Calvinistic bent.

Hi Lori, so glad you liked The Yearling, I thoroughly enjoyed it.

>18 thornton37814: I'm planning to read that book this month, too. I'm looking forward to it, especially after your comments. Not sure how to interpret the "particularly those with a Calvinistic bent" statement, though. Maybe it will be clear after I've started reading. Still, I'm excited about the book.

Lori, I wish you a relaxed weekend.

Happy New thread!!!

>18 thornton37814: I've got Go Tell It On the Mountain on my list to read this month too, Lori! I know very little about it, so I'm glad to know the general plot going in.

>19 AuntieClio: It was a re-read, but it had been so long since I'd read it that the details had dimmed. I would have enjoyed it more sans snakes.

>20 sjmccreary: I think I was reflecting on the way that the TULIP acrostic (especially the Total hereditary depravity, Unconditional election, and Irresistible grace) were present in the book.

>21 Ameise1: Thank you. I just wish I had a few more days to relax.

>22 connie53: Thanks.

>23 porch_reader: Hope you enjoy it.

Happy new thread, Lori. I'm a bit late in getting here because we've been visiting family with no WiFi and then driving all day for three days. We're in Denver now where we'll be for three days so I should have a bit more time for the computer before we head on homeward.

>25 RebaRelishesReading: Hope you are having fun on your trip. I've visited family with no wifi. It's not exactly easy when you are used to be connected. My worst experience though was when I stayed in a campground that advertised it had wifi, but they neglected to tell you that the only place you could access it was around the camp store which closed early. Now I often call ahead to ask if the wifi is available at the actual sites or cabins (which is what I usually do) before booking.

>18 thornton37814: I'm glad you liked it. It's one of my favorites.

>26 thornton37814: - I always have a weird experience in Door County, WI, where I can't get internet service on my phone. It's weird, as it's a fairly major tourist destination. I've heard only AT&T works up there.

>27 DorsVenabili: I've been to Door County a couple of times, but they were both probably pre-cellular days for me. It is a shame that more providers don't service the area. When I first moved to Tennessee, I had a Verizon phone from my old area of Cincinnati. I quickly discovered that where I lived, it didn't work that well. I switched providers as soon as my contract expired (which was shortly thereafter). Verizon has since moved into the area, but I haven't gone back to them. I suppose I'd get a signal in Door County since I have AT&T.

Stopping by and waving hi.

>29 Whisper1: Thanks for stopping in, Linda.

Lori, I wish you a lovely weekend.

>32 thornton37814: Thanks, Barbara. It would be more lovely if this were not my weekend to work. Hope yours is lovely too.

I'm currently reading and enjoy the cosiness of being in the warmth of the house because outside it's cold and damp.

81. Blood Lies by Marianne MacDonald

Date Completed: 13 Sep 2014

Category: Baker Street

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #5: Read a book you didn't buy

Rating: 3 stars

Review: Dido Hoare goes to visit her friend Lizzie Waring in Somerset. The Warings live on a large estate called Monksdale, but Lizzie and her husband (one of the brothers) live in a cottage on the property. A son who confessed to the murder of a maid is being released from prison. He had a rather short sentence but Dido does not understand why his sentence was so long under the circumstances as related to her. When she talks to the investigating officer, she learns of several of his misgivings about the case from the start. She begins her own investigation into the matter. There is a missing rare edition of Peter Rabbit that is obviously related to the case. The setting of this installment reminds one of the old Gothic or romantic suspense novels. This book, however, definitely does not fit into the romance category. The fact that Dido had other females to turn to for help is also a departure from the usual plots in that field. The setting mainly served as a backdrop for the sinister misdeed that had occurred a few years ago. As with most cozies, the plot is not very plausible in several places. It was also pretty obvious from an early point in the novel what had happened. I did not really like the way the author ended the novel, leaving readers wishing that the threads had been more satisfactorily resolved.

Just delurking to wish you a great weekend Lori.

>35 Smiler69: Thanks, Ilana. It would have been much better if this had not been my weekend to work.

Our reading is similar this month Lori as I have also managed Go Tell it on the Mountain and continue to slowly enjoy Jody's childhood in The Yearling.

Have a great week ahead.

>37 PaulCranswick: I'm reading The Seven Daughters of Eve by Bryan Sykes which is about mitochondrial DNA at the moment. I just received an ARC of Citizens Creek by Lalita Tademy through NetGalley so it will probably be up next. I'm really disappointed that one of my early summer ARCs never showed up. It was a cookbook that I had thought would be great for fall. I'm still waiting on the July and August books to show up (and the June one if it should ever show, although it has been reported as a "no-show.")

>34 thornton37814: That one doesn't sound very appealing.

Wishing you a good week!

>40 thornton37814: It didn't really work for me. I know that my Saturday will be wonderful. It's just the between now and then that may not be.

Hi Lori! I also read Go Tell It on the Mountain this month. I find reads that are heavy on religious themes pretty tough going but I can see why it is considered a classic.

I love your library's new patio!

>41 Cobscook: I'm glad you can at least understand why it is considered a classic. Religion was a very important part of the African American experience in many places in the United States.

82. The Seven Daughters of Eve by Bryan Sykes

Date Completed: 23 Sep 2014

Category: You're The One That I Want

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #19: Read a Book with a Noun in the Title

Rating: 4 stars

Review: Having been written twelve years ago, Sykes' work on mitochondrial DNA remains a classic in the field of DNA studies for ancestry. There are parts, of course, that are dated at this point because of the progress made in the study of DNA, but some of the information is still very useful in studying how we got to where we are and in the study of the basics in the field itself. Sykes assigned names to the European maternal haplogroups and fictionalized the stories of each of these "seven daughters of Eve." While I understand what the author was trying to do, I'm not sure that was the most effective means of giving life to the groups. The fictionalization seemed out of place in relation to the rest of the book. This work is a must read by anyone interested in genetic genealogy.

Hi Lori, great review of Sykes' first book in this field. The personal stories are kind of odd but I found that adding a name to the letter for each clan made them more memorable.

>44 Familyhistorian: There's still a lot of good info in the book, and surprisingly, because of the way Sykes approached the subject, it is not as dated as it could have been. Of course, there is new research into some of the "daughters" that would be included in an update, but it is still an interesting book.

>43 thornton37814: I loved this book when I read it a few years ago - is there an update being scheduled?

>46 sjmccreary: Not to my knowledge. David Dowell has a book on genetic genealogy coming out in November. Initially I was quite excited about it because CeCe Moore was supposed to co-author the book. Unfortunately she got so involved in other projects such as being the DNA consultant for Finding Your Roots, the Henry Louis Gates genealogy show on PBS, that she dropped out. David did get some assistance from Angie Bush, but I guess that I'm less optimistic about the book without CeCe's input. I've seen the table of contents for it. There is a chapter on mitochondrial DNA, but it will be very basic compared to the in-depth treatment that Sykes was able to do in his work. David told me this weekend that he was finalizing the index. Amazon shows a December 1 release date, but he says it will be November.

Hi there! :-)

Stopping by to say hello.

Interesting review of Seven Daughters of Eve. I've heard about Mitochondrial DNA but am still quite confused about it. I know what you mean about fiction seeming out of place. We had a fiction author/historian at our last Diversicon convention and she talked about the difficulties of being both. When she is writing history, she says she has to watch herself to make sure she doesn't "commit fiction."

>47 thornton37814: I remember you being excited about the new book on DNA coming out. Too bad it won't be as in depth in some of the chapters because CeCe Moore is not involved, still it would probably be good to get an updated book on DNA. All of the books that I have been reading on the subject seem to be from about 2005. Lots has happened since then. I only have to look at the current FTDNA site to realize that.

Lori, I wish you a lovely Sunday.

>48 AuntieClio: Hi Stephanie!

>49 michigantrumpet: Marianne, You're back!

>50 cammykitty: Yes. It's easy to "commit fiction" in historical writing. I'm currently reading an ARC of a historical fiction book, and I'm watching it to make sure that the historical elements are accurate in the fictionalization of the book. I guess it works both ways!

>51 Familyhistorian: Angie Bush does know her stuff too, but I think CeCe is the leading person for the type of input Dowell needed. I do think he chose a good backup. The thing that we all have to realize that a BOOK is never going to be completely up-to-date on a subject which is evolving as rapidly as genetic genealogy. I'm grateful that one is coming out. I need to get my order in soon. The discount that David was able to offer me is better even with the shipping added than what I could get through Amazon even with Prime.

>52 Ameise1: Thanks, Barbara. I was so busy at church that I didn't even get around to looking at messages until today (Monday). However, it was a good Sunday.

83. Love So Amazing by Pam Rhodes

Date Completed: 29 Sep 2014

Category: Because He Lives

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #5: Read a book you didn't buy

Rating: 5 stars

Review: Pam Rhodes has told the stories of 40 hymns, giving the background for the writing of the hymn and its application to us today. She has done a great job. There is a mix of older hymns and newer ones. There are a few that Americans may not recognize since she is from the United Kingdom; however, the majority of hymns are sung in churches on both sides of the Atlantic. This was just the book I needed at the right moment. While the book is not being sold in the United States, I will be purchasing multiple copies of it upon its release in the U.K. in late October. This review is based on an advance e-galley received through the publisher from NetGalley for review purposes.

Sounds like a great book! Is "Children of the Heavenly King" in it?

>55 mitchma: No, that one is not in there. I loved the book though!

84. Citizens Creek by Lalita Tademy

Date Completed: 2 Oct 2014

Category: Hotel California

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #5: Read a book with an S and a T in the title that you've never read before

Rating: 3.5 stars

Review: This multigenerational tale relates the story of Cow Tom, a black man enslaved to a Creek Indian in Alabama who became a chief in the Creek Nation. The story follows Cow Tom and his desire to purchase his freedom through his marriage to Amy, his service in the Seminole Wars, the birth of his children, his removal to Indian Territory, his loyalty to the Tribe, and then follows his granddaughter Rose. It is based upon a true account. While the story bogged down and moved a bit slower than I would have liked in places, it was a fascinating account. It is a story that deserves to be kept alive, and Tademy has done an excellent service for us all in telling it. This review is based upon an advance e-galley provided by the publisher through NetGalley for review purposes.

Lori, I wish you a gorgeous weekend.

>58 Ameise1: Thank you! That's a lovely church scene!

What a day of college football! I was glued to my seat with some of the big upsets. I also managed to work on a little genealogical research. To celebrate, I made myself a peach cobbler.

Oh, that looks good. I love peach cobbler.

Lori, it isn't unusual to see churches like that one in autumn here in Switzerland. I like this misty/foggy time when the sun is breaking through.

The peach cobbler looks yummmie

>61 sjmccreary: It has been good. I just was in the mood for one and cooked it.

>62 Ameise1: Yes. That's a great time for a photograph. The cobbler was yummy!

Lori, that looks like the perfect dessert for an autumn evening! I've never tried a cobbler.

Oh, cobblers! So good . . .

Oooh, peach cobbler!

>64 susanj67: Oh, you are missing out, Susan. This is very close to what I use. http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Peach-Cobbler-III/Detail.aspx?evt19=1 If you used canned peaches, you can use the juice from the can instead of water. You can also make cobbler with just about any other fruit. It's really yummy. There's also a chocolate cobbler.

>65 jnwelch: Yes, Joe! Gotta have some.

>66 scaifea: Amber, It was yummy.

Proud aunt moment: My niece's photo was chosen to appear in Brad Paisley's new video which was released today. Her 4 second appearance begins about 1:11. She is the girl holding the HUGE fish. http://www.cmt.com/artists/brad-paisley/

85. Blood on the Water by Anne Perry

Date Completed: 7 Oct 2014

Category: Baker Street

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #10: Read a book with both orange and black on its cover

Rating: 4 stars

Review: Monk and Orme are patrolling the Thames when a few feet from them a pleasure boat suddenly explodes. They immediately go into a search and rescue mode, but still nearly 200 lives are lost as a result of the explosion. Although Monk is commanding the Thames River police, the investigation is turned over to the Metropolitan Police, supposedly because it is believed to be connected with the Suez Canal construction. They arrest a suspect whom Monk discovered had an alibi. The investigation is turned back over to Monk. There is a lot at stake in this one, and I don't want to give away too much of the plot. I will say that Oliver Rathbone does appear in this installment even though he can no longer participate as a prosecutor in trials. This installment held my attention better than some of the recent installments in the series have. There is a lot of action, and the plot works well. I received this book through LibraryThing Early Reviewers for review purposes.

86. November Boughs by Walt Whitman

Date Completed: 9 Oct 2014

Category: You're the One That I Want

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #4: Read a book that is older than you (by publishing date)

Rating: 3.5 stars

Review: I tend to think of Walt Whitman as a poet, but this is a collection of essays written by the author better known for his poetry. Among my favorite essays in the collection is "The Bible As Poetry." His essay on "Slang in America" offered observations into how slang terms often become part of the core vocabulary of a language. Another couple which stood out to me because of my familiarity with works discussed were "What Lurks Behind Shakspere's Historical Plays?" and "A Thought on Shakspere." Whitman also offered his thoughts on Robert Burns and Tennyson. One of the most important aspects of this collection is that it offers reflections on 19th century life from interaction with Native Americans to theatre to the Civil War. He offers glimpses of various cities through diary entries, articles, and essays, such as New Orleans, New York, and St. Louis. Whitman must have been interested in the Quaker religion as he tells the stories of Elias Hicks and George Fox in biographical sketches. An e-galley was received from the publisher through NetGalley for review purposes.

Lori, such interesting reading you're doing.

>71 AuntieClio: It is quite varied, Stephanie.

I'm in the midst of reading 3 or 4 books, but I'm getting ready to head out of town for the long weekend. I doubt that I'll get much reading done, but maybe I'll finish at least one of those over our fall break, and who knows? I might finish more. I'm just not holding my breath. This weekend is all about having fun with a friend and enjoying each other's company in person instead of long distance! I am not even sure if I'll have time to check in here or not, but I'm sure I'll eventually catch up.

Lori, I wish you a lovely weekend.

Lori, hope you and your friend have a great time together!

I haven't been here for awhile, your "new" library looks lovely! I'm glad the renovations went relatively quickly. Being there during must have been a pain.

Love so amazing looks interesting to me, as does Citizens Creek. I haven't read anything by Tademy before, but I may keep my eyes open for that one.

>70 thornton37814: Lori, my husband is a HUGE Walt Whitman fan, and this one sounds like an ideal Christmas present. I don't think either of us was aware of his collection of essays. THanks for the good words.

Yummm, love the peach cobbler. A good way to celebrate anything! Enjoy the face-to-face visit with your friend. Thanks for calling the Whitman essays to our attention, Lori. It looks like something I would love.

Hope you had a fabulous weekend getaway!!

>74 Ameise1: I had a fabulous weekend!

>75 markon: Hope you enjoy whichever book bullets that you end up taking. Had a wonderful time with my friend.

>76 tututhefirst: It should be re-released just about right in time for the Christmas rush.

>77 Donna828: My friend's mom actually made peach cobbler for the choir potluck so I got to enjoy some more in Raleigh! Enjoy Whitman.

>78 SuziQoregon: I had a magnificent time.

Spent the weekend in Raleigh. Drove home this afternoon. Already missing him.

87. Victorian Murderesses by Mary S. Hartman

Date Completed: 13 Oct 2014

Category: Old Days

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #5: Read a book with an S and a T in the title that you've never read before

Rating: 4 stars

Review: This is a well-researched book detailing the murders committed by several English and French women during the Victorian era. The author takes a look at some aspects of the crimes in relation to the era in which they were committed. While the dastardly deeds may be milder than those we often hear about in 21st century news, the crimes were "unspeakable", as the subtitle suggests during the time in which they were committed. It bogs down a bit in places, but it is still a fascinating look at the subject. I would have preferred footnotes to end notes, particularly since the author often elaborates a bit more in those. This review refers to Dover's 2014 edition which I received from the publisher through NetGalley for review purposes.

Victorian Murderesses sounds like one I would like. Was it international or about Murderesses from one particular place?

>80 thornton37814: Oh, what a lovely photo. Beautiful.

>80 thornton37814: Yes, what Barbara said - lovely! I'm so glad to hear that you had a great weekend!

>82 Familyhistorian: Most of the chapters feature a British murderess and a French murderess who commit similar crimes so that they can be compared a bit.

>83 Ameise1: Thanks. I miss him!

>84 scaifea: It was quite wonderful. I just wish it was not over.

Odd. When I click on your November Boughs link, I get this: "Problem There is no work with that reference number."

Loved your proud Aunt moment! I hadn't seen that video before (or even heard the song), but that's cute!

>86 countrylife: I updated the November Boughs link. I have no idea why it did that because I just copied and pasted the work number.

Lori, I wish you a fantastic weekend.

>88 Ameise1: Thanks, Barbara. It would be much better if I didn't have to work this weekend. However, the main things I have to do are work on an exhibit/display and write an article for publication. At least it will be something other than routine!

Oh, what kind of exhibit/display?

>90 Ameise1: It's the 50th anniversary of our library's status as a federal government document depository. I think I've pulled most of the items. Unfortunately maintenance did not move the display cases so I couldn't begin loading them. I have started prepping some of the items. I will continue to work on it tomorrow. I can put items in the cases to see how I want to arrange them. Of course, I'll have to remove them at the end of the day.

88. The Last Song by Eva Wiseman

Date Completed: 18 Oct 2014

Category: Because He Lives

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #16: In honor of my dear friend Don, who just passed, read a book that has something to do with music. A word in the title, the subject of the book, a main character teaching/playing music

Rating: 3.5 stars

Review: Set during the Spanish Inquisition, this story for teen readers relates the story of Isabel and her family who became "good Christians" to avoid Jewish persecution. Isabel herself never even realized that her family was Jewish until she hears other Christians calling her family names. To try to avoid what they see as impending persecution of Jews who became Christians and still practice their faith, they arrange a marriage between Isabel and a Christian boy. Isabel detests the boy and protests the marriage. It's even apparent the boy will be a spousal abuser. The book contains arrests, a burning scene, and some glimpses of hope. The families are not sure who their friends are and who their enemies are because it is obvious there is an informant in their midst. It's a piece of historical fiction for young adults covering an era that has a story that needs to be heard, but it's likely to be more popular with female readers than male ones. Most characters are developed adequately for their roles in the story. The narrative did not always flow as naturally as it could have nor did the tension mount as it could have. It's still a great read. This review is based on an e-galley provided by the publisher through NetGalley for review purposes.

>91 thornton37814: That sounds very interesting. Could you please post some photos when finished? :-)

>93 Ameise1: I'll try to do that as soon as I am able to put it into the display cases. I need to put them on the library's blog anyway, and we'll have to cross-post to Facebook and Twitter.

Thanks Lori :-)

>94 thornton37814: You're welcome.

Lori, I just made your peach cobbler. Doubled the recipe into a 9x13 pan, and it's already half gone! The guys loved it!

>97 countrylife: It is pretty good. The nice thing about that recipe is that you can use fresh, frozen, or canned.

>92 thornton37814: Great review on an interesting book. Thanks for sharing!

I now have peach cobbler on the brain!

>99 michigantrumpet: I couldn't resist that historical fiction book when I saw it available at NetGalley. One doesn't often find books set during that period.

89. 2237::The Age of Innocence by whartonedith::Edith Wharton

Date Completed: 21 Oct 2014

Category: Sharing the Night Together

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #4: Read a book that is older than you (by publishing date)

Rating: 3 stars

Review: The Age of Innocence tells the story of some of New York's "upper crust" in the 19th century. There's a bit of scandal, since one of the characters divorces. It shows the attitudes of the people and time. May is a strong female character. Newland is portrayed as a weak male character. I recognized why some people like the book, but I was not one who enjoyed it. The book seemed rather pointless to me other than to appeal to those enamored with reading about high society.

*waving* at Lori

I hope that your next read is better than the Wharton turned out to be!

>102 alcottacre: Stasia, It was one of those books that probably would have been okay for someone else, but it just did nothing for me. I'm enjoying the other books I've been reading (both non-fiction). I will be working on an ER book too. One of the books I'm just reading a chapter at a time, and it is a re-read. The main reason I'm re-reading it is because our pastor is using it as the basis of his sermon series and is encouraging everyone to read it. I still had it on my Kindle, so I decided to read it.

I want peach cobbler now tooooo! Glad to see you had a nice weekend in Raleigh! Very nice photo!

Sorry the Age of Innocence didn't work out so well for you. I think it worked for me as a proto-feminist work. May is strong --but only as far as she conforms to the place society has carved out for her. She has the whole backing of the community, so her strength is derivative of that. Her cousin on the other hand, I believe to be the stronger self-actualizing character, given she must persevere in a very constricted society. For the time frame of the novel AND the time at which it was written, this was a daring book.

Lois, did you post your peach cobbler recipe and I missed it? Now I'm craving peach cobbler.

Oh, and good luck with your display, it sounds fascinating.

>104 Carmenere: I wouldn't mind some more myself. I guess I'll have to make more. I had a blast in Raleigh.

>105 michigantrumpet: I understand why some folks do like it, but it's one I don't really think I will ever wish to re-visit.

>106 AuntieClio: It's in message #67. It's one from the Internet. I may not use exact proportions, but that one is very close to what I do, and it can be used with fresh, frozen, or canned peaches.

90. Guide to DNA Testing: How to Identify Ancestors, Confirm Relationships, and Measure Ethnic Ancestry through DNA Testing by Richard Hill

Date Completed: 22 Oct 2014

Category: You're the One That I Want

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #12: Read another book by an author whose last book you loved

Rating: 4 stars

Review: Good basic introduction to DNA testing for genealogical purposes in a "single" format. He spends most of his time discussing expectations, the types of tests, and the testing companies. The only thing I didn't like is the few pages spent plugging Hill's previous book. Those pages, which were largely excerpts from reviews, were right before the conclusion and interrupted the flow of the book. (By the way, Finding Family is an excellent book which should be read by anyone wanting insights into how to research birth parents in adoptive cases and by others interested in genetic genealogy.) I will be adding this title to the bibliography that I use when I teaching "Beginning DNA" classes to genealogists.

Thanks for directing us to the Peach Cobbler rescipe, Lori! I just pinned the recipe to Pinterest. I plan on making it this week with, don't tell anyone (canned peaches). shhhhh.

>109 Carmenere: Lynda, I've made it with the canned ones before. Just use the juice instead of the water. It's delicious that way. I love it with fresh ones though. Of course, they aren't exactly in season right now, so canned is usually my go-to option if I can't get the really fresh ones. I don't like to wait for the frozen ones to thaw, and there is the added benefit of the juice in the canned ones.

>107 thornton37814: Hey, it's all good. Fortunately there are plenty of books around for all tastes!

Not enough peach cobbler, though! :-)

>111 michigantrumpet: Definitely, on both counts.

Ooooh thank you Lori! I loves cobbler.

Peach cobbler! Yum! I must try making that.

>113 AuntieClio: >114 tymfos: Stephanie & Terri, Hope you all enjoy it. It's quick & easy to make.

>93 Ameise1: As requested, here are photos from the display. The event is in the morning.

First - the display cases themselves.





Now, some close-ups.


These are photocopies of the documents that made us a depository. We left the originals in archives.






The Space Travel Hazards games is one of my favorites!


The piggy bank and the ruler are made at least partially of recycled money from the Federal Reserve Bank.


As a genealogist, I couldn't resist including one of the maps that is perfect for land platting!

Love all the photos! Wish I lived closer to take a real look!

Lori, what beautiful old display cases, and what a lovely display. I found the peach cobbler recipe this morning when I was tidying up. I'm taking it as a sign that I must make it :-)

Lori, I'm impressed. What a gorgeous display and I can fully understand how much work it was to make it like that.
I go for the Space Travel Hazard game too.

>117 michigantrumpet: Marianne, I wish you did too.

>118 susanj67: Yes. The display cases are nice. We usually have some items from archives in them. Hope you enjoy the peach cobbler recipe. Good luck with the conversions on the measures.

>119 Ameise1: It was mainly work identifying things that were from the period of time that we became a depository and then finding some interesting items. You probably see the print-out lying on the big map. That came from one of the online documents and is a reference to the Civil Rights Act that as passed that year.

I love the display cases! You did such a great job with the materials. How did the event go?

>121 lkernagh: The event went fine. Because it is homecoming weekend, we had visitors in and out of the library all day. I'm certain we'll have some in and out tomorrow as well. I won't be there to see them though.

Lori, I wish you a fantastic weekend.

>123 Ameise1: Thanks, Barbara. Same back to you.

91. The Meaning of Marriage by Timothy Keller and Kathy Keller

Date Completed: 25 Oct 2014

Category: Because He Lives

TIOLI Challenge: None

Rating: 4.5 stars

Review: The Kellers take a look at marriage. It is one of the most-balanced treatments of Christian marriage that I've ever read. The authors take a hard look at marriage in the context of contemporary culture while staying true to its Biblical ideal. Marriage is a commitment in a culture where individualism seems to be taking priority; however, it is also a beautiful picture of our relationship with God. The book would work great as a study guide for couples who are looking to be married, for couples who are already married who may be experiencing a rough time in the relationship, and even for those who are not married and never intend to be. Many Christian books on marriage are pure "fluff," but this is not one of them.

92. The Fourth Secret by Andrea Camilleri

Date Completed: 25 Oct 2014

Category: That's the Way (I Like It)

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #5: Read a book with an S and a T in the title that you've never read before

Rating: 3.5 stars

Review: Workers at construction sites are meeting their deaths on the job. After the latest incident, Montalbano can't resist taking a peak at the crime scene even though it is not his investigation. This is a very short installment in the long-running series. The brevity of the book leads to less fully developed characters and a less-complicated plot. Montalbano fans, however, will enjoy this visit with the Inspector. This review is based on an e-galley received by the publisher through NetGalley for review purposes.

93. Radical: Taking Back Your Faith From the American Dream by David Platt

Date Completed: 26 Oct 2014

Category: Trying to Get the Feeling Again

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #10: Read a book with both orange and black on its cover

Rating: 4 stars

Review: I read this book back in 2011. My review then was: This is a challenging book for Christians, not only because the author asks readers to make a one-year commitment to enact the principles set forth in the book, but because he's asking them to get out of their comfort zones. I really cannot find fault with the principles the author expounds. They are well-documented by Scripture references. The one aspect of the book with which I took issue is the conversational tone in which it was written. Too many Christian books today are "dumbing down" the English language and thus perpetuating the notion that Christians have a lower intellect than critics of our faith. It's a book about our priorities. Are we truly concerned for the lost, or are we more concerned for ourselves in this culture of consumerism? It is certainly a thought-provoking book that would make wonderful group study and discussion among Christians.

I gave it 3.5 stars at the time I wrote that review. I gave it 4 stars this time. Why? I think it is because God is slowly changing my heart. Yes, the book is written in a conversational tone, but it is still more grammatically correct than many other Christian books on the market. The author's message is one that the church today needs to hear. The re-read of this book corresponds with a series of sermons that our pastor was inspired to deliver after he read the book. Our pastor serves on the International Mission Board to which the author of the book has recently been appointed President. This book shows Platt's heart for missions, not only in the church where he was pastoring but for missions around the globe.

Blackberry cobbler with Blue Bell Homemade Vanilla ice cream anyone?

Oh, ME! ME!

Oh yes, please!!! It looks delicious :-)

>127 thornton37814: Interesting review. I'm drawn to books which look past our culture of consumerism. Christ was radical in His call to serve the poor two millennia ago -- and it seems to be equally radical now.

ETA -- So glad your exhibit was a success

>126 thornton37814: Jeez, I didn't even know about The Fourth Secret, Lori. A long short story? I rushed over and ordered - it's supposed to available on Kindle on 11/4.

>128 thornton37814: Ohhhh, yes! That looks delicious!

>129 ronincats: >130 Ameise1: >133 connie53: Hope you enjoy your virtual servings!

>131 michigantrumpet: I think you would like the book if you are looking for something that looks past consumerism.

>132 jnwelch: I guess it is a long "short" or novella or something like that. I was surprised when I saw it in the options from NetGalley for request, but I was delighted since I do enjoy Inspector Montalbano.

It's almost the end of October, and I've just had my first abandoned read of the year. I really do think it is a matter of not having read previous installments that made it not work for me.



If You Follow Me by Pam Rhodes

Date Abandoned: 27 Oct 2014

Category: Got to Give It Up

Review: I wanted to like this book. It was described as a book dealing with parish life. I was hoping for something similar to Jan Karon's wonderful series featuring Father Tim. This book had far too many characters, and there was little present to draw the reader into the story or the parish. I suspect this was because this is a later installment in a series in which I've not read the previous ones. I decided to "Pearl Rule" the book as it was not working for me. Those who have read earlier installments may find it more enjoyable. This review is based on an e-galley provided by the publisher through NetGalley for review purposes.

>135 thornton37814: God bless that Nancy Pearl and her rule ;-)

Too bad. I loved the Father Tim series.

>136 michigantrumpet: I know. As I said, it may be one of those series that just needs to be begun at the beginning. I just couldn't get into it.

Hi Lori. First off your blackberry cobbler looks very yummy. I also just had a book that I had to give up on. I don't have very many of them, this was probably my second of the year. I am working on allowing myself to abandon books that don't work for me, but it very hard to actually shut the book and give up! Good luck with your next read.

OMG that blackberry cobbler looks yummy. Alas my college years in Texas and exposure to Blue Bell Ice Cream ruined me for life. No other ice cream quite lives up to it.

>138 DeltaQueen50: Ironically, I just received my ER notification and realized that I had failed to cancel my request for If You Follow Me when I got it through NetGalley. I guess I'll be getting another copy of the only book I've abandoned this year. At least it is already reviewed!

>139 SuziQoregon: Blue Bell is the best ice cream. I'm so glad they have it here.

>101 thornton37814: - Sorry you didn't enjoy The Age of Innocence. I was going to read that, until I realized I wouldn't have the time, so I'm reading Ethan Frome instead, which I'm finding quite good so far.

>116 thornton37814: - Thanks for sharing the display. It looks great!

>141 DorsVenabili: I read Ethan Frome a couple of years ago. I definitely enjoyed it more than The Age of Innocence.

I dressed up as a genealogist for Halloween. That's a DNA kit behind the name badge.

Very clever! Although, to be honest, one of the advantages of being self-employed is there there are no workplace expectations of dressing up for Halloween - I'm terrible at costumes!

Wonderful, Lori.

>143 thornton37814: So creative! Happy Halloween!

>144 sjmccreary: They asked me where I wanted my photo made this morning, and I told them, "In the genealogy section, of course."

>145 Ameise1: Thanks

>146 RosyLibrarian: Happy Halloween to you also.

Awesome! Happy Halloween, Lori. :)

What a great idea for a costume, Lori! Looks like you had a fun day, it's not even 6:30 pm here yet and we've already had about 11 trick & treators. We usually don't get much more than 30 in total.

>148 mitchma: Thanks. Hope things are going well in Mississippi.

>149 DeltaQueen50: I have never had more than 7. I think that is because so many of the churches do "fall festivals" and "trunk or treats." It was raining here tonight, so I had none.

Lori, I wish you a lovely weekend.

>151 Ameise1: Thank you so much for the lovely wreath, Barbara.

We had snow predicted for last night with about 1-4 inches predicted for where I lived and 18 for the higher elevations in the mountains. I was a little concerned as I had to drive in the direction of the mountains this morning for a speaking engagement. Although it was snowing hard with big flakes, the ground had been warm enough recently that it was just melting where I lived and to where I had to go. Less than 10 miles away where one of the genealogy librarians lived, she had 6 inches of snow on the ground, broken limbs in the roadway, and a power outage. She did not make it to the conference until afternoon. The morning turnout was down a bit due to the weather, but by the time I spoke, the crowd had picked up. They seemed to enjoy the presentations. Because of the the area being a tourist area, there were quite a few people from "away" who came for the conference.

Lori, it looks like winter has arrived at your area. I hope you still get some lovely autumn day before winter turns definitely in. It's great to hear thst the event was a success

>154 Ameise1: I'm not ready for winter. I've got too much to do before it sets in.

Isn't it always so that we have the feeling not to be ready and than have to deal with the situation? Take it easy, Lori and make the best of it.

>156 Ameise1: Well, I'll definitely be getting away from it later this week. I'll be flying to sunny Southern California.

Oh, that sounds great! Enjoy it.

>158 Ameise1: I'm actually not looking forward to it because I'll be all the way across the country from Jeff. I thought 6 hours was bad enough. 3 time zones is worse.

So sorry, Lori. xx

>160 Ameise1: Oh, well. Last night we calculated how long it would take him to drive out there. At 10 hours driving per day, it would take 4 days. He doesn't like to drive more than 8 hours in a day so it would take him 5 days each direction. I told him I'd beat him out there. That's definitely a "flying" trip.

You haven't lost your humour so far with all those calculation. How long will you stay in California?

>162 Ameise1: Just Thursday until Sunday. Fortunately we will be back to a somewhat normal schedule after that.

But thank goodness for internet and free long distance calls on cell phones - they make the other side of the country seem as close as the other side of town. Have a safe - and productive/fun - trip.

>164 sjmccreary: Yes, it's just challenging with the time difference finding a time that will work for both of us, but I think we can find a time. I found out today approximately what time our meetings begin and end each day so we can plan accordingly. It still doesn't feel particularly close when it is virtual, but it is better than having to wait on snail mail.

Time zones - yes I'd forgotten about that - it's a bigger issue for you in the eastern zone - for us Calif is only 2 hours behind - we can just call when it's nearly bedtime here and be able to talk to someone there at a reasonable time for them. But it's nice that you'll have prearranged times set up for calls - something to look forward to.

>166 sjmccreary: We'll do the best that we can under the circumstances.

>167 thornton37814: yes - and remember that you have to be apart before you can have the sweet homecoming reunion!

>169 thornton37814: I'll try to keep that in mind.

I love it when the mail brings books. Today's mail brought Genealogy and the Law: A Guide to Legal Sources for the Family Historian which I had pre-ordered from the National Genealogical Society. Now, I've just got to find time to study it more closely. It's been a long time since I've had to do a lot of legal reference so this one should "refresh" my skills.

Have a good and save trip, Lori!

>171 connie53: Thanks.

94. A Fifty-Year Silence: Love, War, and a Ruined House in France by Miranda Richmond Mouillot

Date Completed: 4 Nov 2014

Category: We've Only Just Begun

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #5: Read a book with an embedded word in the title

Rating: 2.5 stars

Review: I wanted to like this book more than I did. It had the potential to be a great book--the story of a secret leading to her grandparents' divorce that was kept by the parties for fifty years. Unfortunately the disjointed manner in which it was told did nothing to engage the reader. Instead of a reasonably exhaustive search for the story, we find a rather haphazard plan that was put in place with limited success. The story seemed to be focused as much on the author's romance and relationship while she was in France as it was the story that was told. The actual story could have probably been told in a documented journal article with far more success than the manner in which it was told. This review is based on an advance readers copy received through LibraryThing Early Reviewers with the expectation a review would be written.

SNOW?!? Say it ain't so, Lori. I am so not ready for that and we live in a similar climate. It was in the low 20s here Saturday morning so I guess if those temps had stuck around, today's rain could well have been snow. Thanks for the pictures upthread. I love putting faces with names on LT. Great Halloween costume! Enjoy your short stay in sunny California.

>174 Donna828: I'm glad the snow is gone. I wasn't ready for it. I'll try to make the best of the California trip.

>143 thornton37814: Nice! Are those ALA ribbons? :-)

>176 DorsVenabili: Those are ribbons from one of the genealogical conferences -- either National Genealogical Society's Conference or the Federation of Genealogical Societies Conference. When I look at the logo on the badge, it looks like that may have been the one from the FGS 2010 conference that was held in Knoxville. I had just grabbed one that had lots of ribbons.

Safe journey :-)

>178 Ameise1: Thanks, Barbara.

Have a good trip - enjoy the sun!

>180 SuziQoregon: It is very hot and sunny.

Our hotel:



Very interesting sculpture across the street from the hotel:



I'll try to get a photo of it without the power lines and stop signs some time, but I haven't had a chance yet.

Part of the San Diego Bay around Shelter Island:

Beautiful photos. Glad you arrived safely.

Wow! Gorgeous! I'm not jealous...I'm not jealous...

Nice! Have a great time, Lori.

>182 Ameise1: Thanks, Barbara.

>183 scaifea: Amber, it's in the 80s here. I feel like it is summer again.

>184 jnwelch: Joe, I'll do my best.

Oh, how I'd love to be in sunny CA!! It was 37 this morning here. Brrrr. I'm not a cold weather person. Enjoy. At least I got to be there a second vicariously through your pics. :)

>186 mitchma: On the downside, the hotel restaurant doesn't open on Saturdays until 7 a.m. Pacific. My stomach insists it is 10 a.m., and I'm starving! I'm also trying to talk to Jeff at 7:30 a.m. which is 10:30 a.m. his time so we can talk before my meeting resumes. I was hoping to eat something a bit more substantial today, but I guess I'll be stuck with the free continental breakfast again just so I can get back to the room quickly.

>187 thornton37814: Oh, the joys of adapting to another time zone! I hope you got everything accomplished for your morning break and were able to make up for the lack of food at lunch.

>188 Familyhistorian: I'm at the airport now. Should be boarding in about 20 minutes. Looking forward to getting home.

Wishing you a safe journey.

Get home save, Lori.

The pictures look amazing.

>177 thornton37814: Got it.

>181 thornton37814: Have fun in San Diego! Looks lovely! Which conference is this? Sorry if I missed it.

>190 Ameise1: >191 connie53: I did make it home safely. All the flights were on time and rather uneventful. I'm thankful to be home.

>192 DorsVenabili: It was a business meeting for several of us on a team that does business for a certain aspect of an association. I didn't really have time to do anything fun other than our dining experiences because I had another meeting pertaining to another aspect of the association the day we arrived when the rest of those with whom I traveled were able to go see the USS Midway.

95. Rabbit, Run by John Updike

Date Completed: 6 Nov 2014

Category: We Are the Champions

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #4: Read a book by an author whose publication career spanned at least 15 years

Rating: 3.5 stars

Review: Harry "Rabbit" Angstrom was once the star of the basketball team. Now he is the "old guy", married to a wife with an alcohol problem, and just wanting to escape. He attempts to drive to Florida but ends up turning around, driving to his old coach's home who introduces him to a woman that leads him down the wrong path. While I can appreciate that this book is well-written and that it holds literary merit, it is not one that I find particularly enjoyable. It's a book that is read more for the characters and situations in which they find themselves than for a "good feeling" that one might get from reading another work of literature. It shows the consequences of poor decisions -- his own decisions, those of his wife, those of his coach, etc.

>194 thornton37814: Good review, Lori. That fits with my reading of it. This is a talented author who I wish had directed those talents in a different direction.

96. The Forgotten Girls by Sara Blaedel

Date Completed: 9 Nov 2014

Category: That's the Way (I Like It)

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #12: Read a book with one plural word in the title

Rating: 3.5 stars

Review: An unidentified female body is discovered in a forest in Denmark. There is another crime that appears to be similar. The investigation leads to a connection with a home for the mentally handicapped. most of whom have been abandoned by their families. Louise Rick is the investigator. The girl had been declared dead more than 30 years ago. What was going on there? Where is the girl's twin sister who was also declared dead? Where had the girls been living all these years? Who is responsible for the girl's death? With that dark edge popular in Scandinavian crime novels, this story is certain to please many fans of the genre. The author has created an interesting puzzle with enough questions to keep the reader motivated to continue. The crimes associated with this case just keep mounting. This review is based on an advance reader's copy in e-galley format provided by the publisher through NetGalley for review purposes.

Is that last one the translation of 'De glemte piger'? If so I've read it too. And gave it 3,5 star as well.

>197 connie53: LC gives the uniform title as "Glemte piger. English" so I guess it is. Nice to know we gave it similar ratings. Not the best book ever, but not bad either.

97. Shirley by Charlotte Bronte

Date Completed: 10 Nov 2014

Category: Longer

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #13: Read a book where the title completes the phrase "I am thankful for..."

Rating: 3.5 stars

Review: Set during the Napoleonic wars, Shirley is partially a story of economics and industrialization. It's also partially a love story. Religion also plays a part in the novel. There is a reason it has stood the test of time. The characters are very strong, and one can truly get a feel for the era in which the novel is set.

98. Peyton Manning: A Football Star Who Cares by Barry Wilner

Date Completed: 11 Nov 2014

Category: We Are the Champions

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #5: Read a book with an embedded word in the title

Rating: 3 stars

Review: A somewhat outdated biography of Peyton Manning, who is arguably one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. The book only goes through the 2009 NFL season when Manning was still playing for the Colts. Since that time, he has joined the Denver Broncos. It is not written in the most engaging style for juvenile readers, but it does have some facts and stories that may be of interest for youngsters who are interested in football.

99. Cam Jansen and the Basketball Mystery by David A. Adler

Date Completed: 11 Nov 2014

Category: We Are the Champions

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #19: Read a book with the word "and" in the title

Rating: 3 stars

Review: When an autographed basketball game goes missing after the game, "Cam" Jansen uses her photographic memory to find the ball and the thief. It's not a deep mystery, but it should be enjoyable for younger readers who can handle short chapters.

100. Margret & H. A. Rey's Merry Christmas, Curious George by Cathy Hapka

Date Completed: 11 Nov 2014

Category: Trying to Get the Feeling Again

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #5: Read a book with an embedded word in the title

Rating: 3.5 stars

Review: Books featuring Curious George always make me smile, and this one is no exception. I first read this one some years ago in a bookstore, but I borrowed the e-book from the library this year. This is a book that was not written by the book's creators but by someone who came along many years later writing in the same style. Hapka has done a good job capturing the spirit of the character of Curious George as created by the Reys. In this installment, George climbs in a tree which is cut down and soon finds himself in a hospital. He is up to his usual antics until the man with the yellow hat comes to his rescue.

101. The Mystery on the Train by Gertrude Chandler Warner

Date Completed: 11 Nov 2014

Category: Hotel California

CAT Challenge: Challenge #5: Read a book with an embedded word in the title

Rating: 3 stars

Review: The Alden children witness something unusual on the train platform before they leave Boston for San Francisco with their aunt. A girl bringing an art portfolio on board snatches it from an older woman, knocking the woman to the ground. They attempt to solve the mystery aboard the train, but it leads to an even bigger adventure. It's a mystery that is certain to satisfy many elementary readers. It has just enough action without being too threatening or life-endangering for the characters.

I'm invoking the Pearl Rule again.



Slowing Time: Seeing the Sacred Outside Your Kitchen Door by Barbara Mahany

Date Abandoned: 11 Nov 2014

Category: Got to Give It Up

Review: This book was not what I expected it to be. It is arranged seasonally with not quite daily activities to enhance observations and slow the reader's pace of life down to enjoy a sense of wonder. It's really a book of creative writing pieces with no regard to proper rules of grammar. I found the arrangement to be a bit of distraction as there was one piece which tended to weave its way across the bottom of several pages, making it impossible to read a page at a time without going back to where that piece began to read it in its entirety for the sake of cohesiveness. It did not really work for me although other readers might enjoy this type of book.

Nice photos of your trip! I'm glad your return was peacefully uneventful.

>205 tymfos: I am too. The return in 2013 was such a nightmare.

I did manage a photo of the sunset one evening, so let me share that here too.

Lori, I wish you a lovely weekend.

>207 Ameise1: Thanks! That looks like a much warmer weekend than we'll have here, but it's nice to dream!

Lovely picture of the sunset, Lori!

>200 thornton37814: Ok. Please note that I'm not being snarky at all (just curious), but what does Peyton Manning care about? I honestly don't know a whole lot about his life off the field, other than Pappa John's commercials.

>209 connie53: Thanks.

>210 DorsVenabili: Most of "the care" part is focused on his charity that helps kids. However, those of us in the Knoxville area know that Peyton's heart of gold has manifested itself numerous times here in East Tennessee.