lit_chick's 2015 Reading (2)

Welcome to 2015's literary adventures, everyone. All aboard!

I live in British Columbia’s very beautiful Okanagan Valley. My thread toppers this year will feature paintings of the area by local artist Angela Roth McIntosh.



Angela Roth McIntosh, Golden Hills, Okanagan Valley




March
20. The Railway Children, E. Nesbit
19. The Secret Garden, Frances Hodgson Burnett
18. The Wind in the Willows, Kenneth Grahame
17. The Corinthian, Georgette Heyer
16. The Secret of the Old Clock, Carolyn Keene

February
15. Galore, Michael Crummey
14. Rescue, Anita Shreve
13. Black Beauty, Anna Sewell
12. The Patience of the Spider, Andrea Camilleri
11. The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox, Maggie O'Farrell
10. Rounding the Mark, Andrea Camilleri

January
9. The Smell of the Night, Andrea Camilleri
8. Excursion to Tindari, Andrea Cmailleri
7. A House in the Sky, Amanda Lindhout
6. The Postmistress, Sarah Blake
5. The Voice of the Violin, Andrea Camilleri
4. Us, David Nicholls
3. The Snack Thief, Andrea Camilleri
2. A Land More Kind Than Home, Wiley Cash
1. The Terra-Cotta Dog, Andrea Camilleri

13.
Black Beauty, Anna Sewell



Rating: 5/5

2005, Tantor Media, Read by Simon Vance

“The first place that I can well remember was a large pleasant meadow with a pond of clear water in it. Some shady trees leaned over it, and rushes and water-lilies grew at the deep end. ” (Ch 1)

I thoroughly enjoyed rereading this beautiful childhood classic, an autobiographical memoir narrated in first person by Black Beauty himself. Beauty tells his story, beginning with his carefree young life on an English farm with his mother, through his difficult years pulling cabs in London, and finally to his retirement in the English countryside. Along the way, he has met with much kindness but also with substantial cruelty. Sewell devotes each chapter to some moral lesson about the kind and understanding treatment of horses. Through Beauty's first person narration we gain insight into into the disposition and dignity of an animal well-treated. Conversely, we also come to understand some of the ways in which humans have caused horses to suffered needlessly, in the name of fashion, for instance, as with blinkers and bearing reins. It was Sewell’s intention, I suspect, given her admirable and passionate advocacy for the better treatment of horses, that young people might read Black Beauty’s story and come to effect change in the world that all animals might know kindness and compassion.

“My doctrine is this, that if we see cruelty or wrong that we have the power to stop, and do nothing, we make ourselves sharers in the guilt.” (38)

Ooh! I'm first. I am pulling a chair up to the window and I'll just be here gazing at the lovely view. :)
Gorgeous painting, so peaceful.

>2 lit_chick: Jenn, you are! It is a lovely, peaceful painting, isn't it?

Aw nuts. I thought I might be first ;)
But I am still early, and very pleased to see the thread off to a great start with a 5/5 star rating! I have to hold back on buying Black Beauty every time I see a 2nd hand copy of it. I have a horsey friend who loves the book, I intend on amassing her a collection of editions.

Great topper and wonderful book to start off another thread! Congrats.

Lovely opening picture Nancy. I see you are well on course for 75 this year, my dear.

Happy New Thread, Nancy!

Hi Nancy. Happy new thread. LOVE the painting. Black Beauty - I don't think I've ever read it. That sounds like a good future Scout book.

Happy new thread, Nancy!
The Okanagan Valley is beautiful and I love the drive through it when we are passing through on our way to Vancouver. :)

I have to read Black Beauty soon. It's been sitting on my shelves for far too long.

>5 LovingLit: Hi Megan, what a wonderful idea for your friend who loves Black Beauty, to amass her a collection of editions.

>6 Berly: Thanks, Kim : ).

>7 PaulCranswick: Thanks, Paul. Reading many short books helps to be on track for 75, LOL!

>8 scaifea: Thanks, Amber : ).

>9 BLBera: Thanks, Beth. Black Beauty will be a wonderful book to enjoy with little Scout.

>10 jolerie: Hi Val, so much of British Columbia is beautiful! Of course, I am partial to the Okanagan Valley. Yes, you must read Black Beauty! Are you little ones old enough to enjoy it yet? It's such a beautiful story.

My guys are 4 and 1 so not quite at the age where they would appreciate it yet. I have hopes though since my eldest loves story time. As for the little one, I'm just happy he will sit in my lap long enough for me to zip up his pjs...ha! :)

Lovely painting: what a view!

Hi Nancy, nice new thread my dear and I just love the paintings you are selecting as your thread topper. Love and hugs from over here.

Next stop: Okanagan Valley!!!

How wonderful that you enjoyed Black Beauty so much. I listened to it also - and enjoyed it - but it was not Simon Vance :) It is one that I would like to read again. Now I guess you will dig in to 1001 Children's Books with more enthusiasm.

>12 jolerie: ETA: Hi Val, editing this post. I feel so badly that I missed your comment first time round. Your sweet little boys are a bit young yet for Black Beauty. Got such a chuckle out of your youngest only sitting long enough to have his PJs zipped!

>13 charl08: Thanks, Charlotte : ).

>14 johnsimpson: Love and hugs back to you and Karen, John : ).

>15 ctpress: Carsten, woot! You're aboard the train to the Okanagan Valley! I know you would love Black Beauty in Simon Vance's most capable hands. And thank you for inspiring me to look into 1001 Children's Books. I've just started listening to The Wind in the Willows narrated performed by Alan Bennett, and it is fabulous!

Hello Nancy! Love the thread-toppers; very evocative. Already caught a BB from your last thread - A land more kind than home sounds wonderful. Thanks for some great reviews!

>17 PrueGallagher: Hi Prue, good to see you! I think you'll love A Land More Kind Than Home.

Glad you enjoyed Black Beauty . I read it in grade school as I was a "very good girl" when I was young and read all of the prescribed childhood books, for what good it did me. I did not care for it all. Unlike many girls I had no wish to own a horse. Not at all. I had a bit of experience with Shetland Pony that I could not control and at the end of my road, growing up , was a small farm with horses on it. Yes, here in Richmond! And I was scared that they would bite me when I feed them grass. Everyone said that once a horse went to close it's jaw, it could not stop closing it's jaw and could potentially bite your hand off. I did not like Little Women either. My mom loved it and set it out for me to read. I thought the girls were sort of simpering , embroidering silly sort of girls. I liked my Harriet the Spy and Enid Blyton mysteries and Joan Aiken and the like. Not to put others off "Black Beauty of course . Must run and get my hair cut!

Happy new thread, Nancy! Love the thread topper!

>2 lit_chick:- Black Beauty... now that story takes me back to my childhood. Very happy to see it stands up as a wonderful re-read!

>19 vancouverdeb: Hi Deb Harriet! Great post, you make me smile! I was that girl who needed to have a horse and would not understand why a horse barn feet away from the family pool on our half acre was a problem. I think Harriet the Spy I read in the same Children's Lit course as so many other wonderful tales. Right now I'm cursing on the river with Rat, Toad, and Mole in The Wind in the Willows.

>20 lkernagh: Thanks, Lori. Black Beauty takes me back to my childhood too. I'm going to have some fun exploring 1001 Children's Books until the mood changes again.

LOL! I was even more err - blunt then usual with my post. Just did not like horses and I cannot even admire them visually. Oh you were that girl! Oh dear! Sorry Nancy!That girl , named Tracy was in my grade She was really nice , though she had horse dreams which I think she realized. I don't even remember Black Beauty as memoir. Maybe I should have a " look" it at again. Excellent review and was thumbed last night. I did not play at being a detective, but I confess that I was probably a bit more like Harriet the Spy than The Little Women, though I dutifully made my way through children's classics. I was an eldest dutiful girl, but not like those The Little Women . My family did get pool when I was 16 when my dad had " amassed " his fortunes as well as 5 children. No half acre though. All concrete and rocks as my dad did not like to mow the lawn. I liked a lot of authors and I remember liking E. Nesbit too. And Nancy Drew - you are so lucky to have heroine's name!

>22 vancouverdeb: LOL, Deb, I expect I was much more like Annie Oakley than Little Women. Though I did occasionally play Harriet the Spy with my first cousin. Or perhaps I was playing Nancy Drew?

Well, I have a challenging time picturing you as Annie Oakley! :) Nancy Drew, Cherry Ames or maybe Trixie Belden. Oh those fun old mysteries! Or how about The Bobbsey Twins. My mom had saved a lot of books from here childhood that she passed on to me and my sisters, not that I did not read The Hardy Boys. I had a very good friend who was slightly too fond of Little House on the Prairie and she liked to play pioneer family . Not quite sure how we did that, but I do remember her mom letting us eat cold cooked hamburger patties. Very pioneer - like. She went on to marry a farmer who lives just outside of Winnipeg. She is very happy , but I love to tease her that she read just one too many Little House on the Prairie books. :)

>23 lit_chick: I remember that my mother loved The Bobbsey Twins; I think they were favourites of hers in her own childhood. Here's to cold ground beef and pioneer life, LOL!

Finally catching up with your thread, Nancy. I am another who has Black beauty in the stacks but has yet to read it. Hoping that your weekend is filled with fabulous!

Moi aussi! I have not read Black Beauty either so really must add it to the list. I know that I have a copy here somewhere but I like the idea of the audio too. When my husband and I met (a million years ago) we found out the we both had the same favourite book from childhood Wilderness Champion . i guess we're both dog people! (four (sub) standard poodles later!)

It seems like I must've read Black Beauty at some point Nancy, but it doesn't really sound familiar. Anyway, happy new thread.

>26 Crazymamie: Hi Mamie, hope your weekend is fabulous, too!

>27 mdoris: Hi Mary, you must read Black Beauty, and, yes, the audiobook is excellent. Simon Vance is inimitable!

>28 brenzi: Hi Bonnie, I'm thinking it's safe to assume you were not the horse crazy young girl, LOL.

The Bobbsey Twins aren't too PC, when you think about it. :) Of course I did not notice when I read them when I was 5 or 6 or 7. It seemed completely plausible to me that there should be two convenient sets of twins and of course, the ' household help." I still chuckle about Ned Nickerson , Nancy's boyfriend and her ' titian hair" - wait, Ned is not a former boyfriend of yours, is he? And I think she have drove a blue coupe, not that I knew what a coupe was when I read the series .

Wait! How could I miss a whole new thread???? Here I am to make up my loss!
Loved, loved, loved horses - maybe because I was never near one in the flesh. I ate up Black Beauty and the Black Stallion books. Loved, Loved, Loved, LOVE Little Women! Loved Nancy Drew! Hated the Bobbsey Twins! Loved Cherry Ames! I'm so glad that somebody else remembers her.
>30 vancouverdeb: In my mother's Nancy Drew books that I loved best, Nancy had a blue roadster - a lot more dashing than a coupe, I think.
I'll be back!

>30 vancouverdeb: Hi Deb, have to take your word on The Bobbsey Twins. I'm certainly familiar with these, and while my mother spoke fondly of them, I don't think I ever read them. I expect much children's literature from that era is not too PC!

>31 LizzieD: Hi Peggy, so glad you're here! Not hard to miss a whole new thread in this busy group! (at least that has been my experience!). I should find audiobooks for the Black Stallion books, too! I LOVED anything horses! Listened to Little Women a couple summers ago and enjoyed it, but don't think I read it as a young girl. Love that you loved Nancy Drew, and that she drove a blue roadster …

>19 vancouverdeb: enjoying discussion of the books read as a kid. I never much was interested in, or even liked horses (so much *work*, so early in the morning) but was engrossed by Black Beauty - think because for me it was about the people she was with rather than admiring the animal. The description of the taxi driver's (hansom cab, maybe?) care of her is still memorable many years later. Not sure if my memory of book would stand up to adult rereading though.

Who knew that reading Black Beauty could generate so much discussion. I may truly need to have a gander at Black Beauty just to make sure I did not miss the story for my dislike of horses :)

@31 Oh Peggy! You have jogged some fine memories and caused me to look up Nancy Drew. Yes, apparently Nancy Drew had a roadster, a blue coupe , a convertible and maybe something newer, these days. I guess her father was quite rich. All I had was old blue Toyota which I shared with my sister, and it had a bit of rust on the bottom - almost right through the drivers side floor - kind of like a Fred Flinstone car.

>33 charl08: Hi Charlotte, I agree there are some wonderful, memorable characters in Black Beauty. Not sure if my memory of book would stand up to adult rereading though. This is what's interesting reading children's literature as an adult.

>33 charl08: Deb, no kidding!: Who knew that reading Black Beauty could generate so much discussion.

Hi Nancy! What a lovely painting up top -- I would love to see the real thing (painting in person AND the view!). Oh, Black Beauty! Now that's one I have not read since I was a child. And Simon Vance! Oh, I'm going to have to look for that one.

I listened to a Nancy Drew a couple of years ago, which was so much fun (narrated by Laura Linney). Brought back so many wonderful memories. I was a devoted Trixie Belden fan as a girl.

>36 AMQS: Hi Anne, we do have some wonderful views here in the Okanagan. I predict you will thoroughly enjoy Black Beauty a la Simon Vance! And I love Laura Linney! Woot! Thanks for the tip that she has narrated the Nancy Drew books.

Oh, did you just say that it was narrated by Simon Vance?
I'm listening to him for my current audiobook and it's just getting on my nerves.
Does he have an accent in Black Beauty??

>38 jolerie: Hi Val, Vance is English, so he does have an accent. He is a narrator I adore! I listened to so much of his work: last year it was all six of Trollope's Palliser novels. What are you listening to that you find his voice annoying?

The Other Story by Tatiana de Rosnay. I don't know if it's the narration that is the problem or the fact that the author felt the need to throw in every French street there is. I have no idea whether he is a native French speaker either, but I can hardly understand what he is saying when he is speaking it (not that I actually speak any French...so that might be part of my problem...ha!). The other issue is the main character is supposed to be a man in his late 20s and the narration sounds like a really, really, old person, so I'm all thrown off. Minor quibbles maybe, but definitely getting in the way of my ability to get into the story. :/

Hi Nancy, just popping by to wish you a lovely Sunday my dear, love and hugs.

>40 jolerie: Hi Val, not familiar with The Other Story, but I certainly wouldn't say your quibbles are minor. What you describe would throw me off, too. What a disappointment.

>41 johnsimpson: Hi John, love, hugs, and Sunday wishes to you and Karen.

Nancy, do let me know what you think of Galore by Michael Crummey when you get to it. I've yet to read a Michael Crummey and I''ll be interested in your comments / review. My sister is celebrating getting a half century of age, so I'm off to celebrate with the family. She tells me she feels " very old."

>43 vancouverdeb: Deb, Galore is my first Michael Crummey, but it won't be my last. I've got another 75-85 pp to go. I'm thinking a 4.5-5* read. Superb writer, absolutely superb, and the NL folklore is fabulous.

HB to your sister : ).

Hi Nancy! I haven't actually read Black Beauty. I admit that I hide away from animal books after being traumatized by several when I was a child. I don't have any clue how BB ends, but I guess I should be brave enough to read it some day.

>45 The_Hibernator: Hi Rachel, I certainly understand why you steer clear of animal books. Black Beauty does end well ... with a lovely, well-earned retirement.

Happy new thread Nancy! Beautiful golden colours in that opening picture.

I'm another fan of your lovely thread topper, Nancy. You are fortunate to have such awesome views. Galore is on my WL and has been there far too long. I'm looking forward to your review to inspire me to just read it! Those shiny new books at the library keep seducing me.

>47 souloftherose: Thanks, Heather. I love the painting too; her Okanagan works are just stunning.

>48 Donna828: Thanks, Donna, it is lovely to have such awesome views : ). Galore is excellent. I just need the time and the focus (and I've little of both right now) to finish it and write a review ...

14.
Rescue, Anita Shreve



Rating: 2.5/5

2010, Hachette Audio, Read by Dennis Holland

From the Publisher:
A rookie paramedic pulls a young woman alive from her totalled car, a first rescue that begins a lifelong tangle of love and wreckage. Sheila Arsenault is a gorgeous enigma – streetwise and tough-talking, with haunted eyes, fierce desires, and a never-look-back determination. Peter Webster, as straight an arrow as they come, falls for her instantly and entirely. Soon Sheila and Peter are embroiled in an intense love affair, married, and parents to a baby daughter. Like the crash that brought them together, it all happened so fast.

Can you ever really save another person? Eighteen years later, Sheila is long gone and Peter is raising their daughter, Rowan, alone. But Rowan is veering dangerously off track, and for the first time in their ordered existence together, Webster fears for her future. His work shows him daily every danger the world contains, how wrong everything can go in a second. All the love a father can give a daughter is suddenly not enough.

Sheila's sudden return may be a godsend – or it may be exactly the wrong moment for a lifetime of questions and anger and longing to surface anew. What tore a young family apart? Is there even worse damage ahead? The questions lifted up in Anita Shreve's utterly enthralling new novel are deep and lasting, and this is a novel that could only have been written by a master of the human heart.

My Review:
I read Anita Shreve as quick, escape fiction, and I enjoy and rate her writing as such. But Rescue was a solid meh. Webster, the rookie paramedic, pretty much stalks the completely unlikeable and alcoholic “rescue” Arsenault until they are married and parents – behaviour which I found surpassed unethical and bordered on illegal. Then, he orders her to leave when she endangers the life of their very young child while in an alcoholic fog. Then, when the adolescent child goes off the rails, he seeks out Arsenault thinking she can help? What? The father-daughter dynamic was mildly interesting but really “stock.” I’ll continue to read Shreve occasionally for reasons I’ve already stated, but Rescue is not one I recommend.

Ah, better luck next time with your escape fiction, Nancy. I haven't read any of Shreve's novels - but I guess I can pass on that one. It almost sounds like Nicholas Sparks or something like that.

I read Black Beauty when I was working on the Cape as a library director - in my mid-late twenties and was surprised by what a good story it was - sorry I had missed it as a kid.

Some time ago I tried a Shreve on audio from the library - wayyyy to Sparksy for me. She's v. popular at our library though, so I felt I had to try.

>51 ctpress: Thanks, Carsten. Hmm, Nicholas Sparks is probably a good comparison, at least in terms of this novel.

>52 sibylline: Lucy, I also thoroughly enjoyed Black Beauty; it really is a lovely story. I definitely found Rescue way too Sparksy, LOL! Interesting that he is the comparison both you and Carsten came up with.

I read a few of Anita Shreve's books waaaay back when. Enjoyed the first one or two, but then tired of them. Sorry you had a "meh" read and hope the next one is better!

>50 lit_chick: Also read these as escape fiction, but for some reason the blurb didn't appeal to me on this one. Thanks for confirming I'm not missing much!
I do prefer her earlier historical novels - she seemed to know (or have imagined) the town they were set in very well and for me it gave them a bit more depth.

>50 lit_chick: I've read one Anita Shreve. I enjoyed it, but I haven't ever picked up another one. After seeing your rating of that one, I may know why.

For some reason I've always avoided Anita Shreve as what I've thought of her as Chick - Lit writer. But your review is thumbed . Later today, I'll get to a few comments re A Fine Summer's Day. You know how it goes with books and guys - kiss a a few frogs before you met your prince. May your next read be princely. Unwittingly I've created a very sexist comment here. My escape fiction runs to book like the Flavia de Luce series which is truly WONDERFUL! Everyone needs a bit of junk reading here and there. Good junk reading.

Good review, Nancy! I like some of Shreve's early novels but her more recent stuff holds less interest.

Hi Nancy! I am so glad you loved Galore. Now, you can look forward to Sweetland. Smiles...

Did I miss something? When did you read one of my favorite books Nancy, Galore?

Hi Nancy! Not tempted by your Anita Shreve review either, though the review itself is excellent!

re: Simon Vance - I adore him, but some stories are more suited to his style than others. My favorite Simon Vance story was when I asked my daughter if I could listen to the very end of Barchester Towers (normally I only play audios when I'm alone in the car). After a minute or so she said, "Mom, this is Simon Vance!" He had narrated one of her children's audios, and she found him memorable as well.

>54 lauralkeet: Hi Laura, I've read three or four Shreve novels, but I enjoy her earlier books as compared to her later, such as Rescue. I'm just finishing Galore … how fabulous! Great to follow a meh read with a superb one!

>55 charl08: Hi Charlotte, Shreve’s earlier historical novels are definitely better. One of her novels, The Weight of Water was even shortlisted for the Orange Prize some years ago.

>56 thornton37814: Hi Lori, happy to offer up affirmations!

>57 vancouverdeb: Hi Deb, kissed a frog but have met a prince in Michael Crummey. Will review Galore tonight or tomorrow. Will drop by your thread for comments on A Fine Summer’s Day. I certainly need junk reads occasionally … particularly when I am as busy as I am right now, both at work and at home. There’s not much room for anything cerebral by the time I get to my reading chair.

>58 katiekrug: Hi Katie, agree wholly on Shreve’s earlier novels. I think you and I have read a couple of the same ones.

>59 msf59: Hi Mark, I am looking forward to Sweetland.

>60 brenzi: Hi Bonnie, you’ve not missed anything, my friend! I am about to finish Galore and review it tonight or tomorrow. What a find in Michael Crummey! And it was you, when you read Galore, who put him on my radar, so thank you for that!

>61 AMQS: Hi Anne, oh I love the story of you and your daughter driving: "Mom, this is Simon Vance!" I expect it made your day! Love that someone your daughter’s age knows my favourite narrator!

15.
Galore, Michael Crummey



Rating: 4.5/5

“He ended his time on the shore in a makeshift asylum cell, shut away with the profligate stink of fish that clung to him all his days. The Great White. St. Jude of the Lost Cause. Sea Orphan …” (Ch 1)

So begins Galore, set in the Newfoundland outport, Paradise Deep. The villagers are gathered by the sea, where a whale has beached itself. Borne of the enormous mammal is Judah, a “sea orphan” with skin as white as snow, and the fiercest stench, a “faux-albino of indeterminate age." (Ch 5) The day is a special one, the day of the Feast of St Mark – the novel will end on the same day, many generations and roughly two centuries later. In between, Crummey delights with a fabulous tale, filled with a plethora of rough-and-tumble oddball characters and rich in Newfoundland folklore.

Paradise Deep, as observed by one of the rare newcomers to the village, is something of a "medieval world," "half fairy tale," its inhabitants "quietly lunatic." The outport is home to two predominant families – the Devines and the Sellers – from which most of its population has sprung. Devine’s Widow, an elderly crone thought by many to be a witch, is the matriarch of the first. Her nemesis is the patriarch of the second: King-me Sellers, magistrate, merchant, and tyrant. Between the two families plays out the mother of all grudges and feuds! Discord is played out by other forces, too, both religious and political: the Catholic and Anglican churches are rocked by a vitriolic (and sometimes humourous) split; and the novel’s historical framework introduces bitter union/merchant politics as fishermen in the community, suffering from Sellers’ stranglehold on fish prices and trade, are recruited to unionize. As the title promises, other abundances are plenty in Paradise Deep: feast, famine, poverty, riches (thought certainly not in equal measure), heartbreak, loss, and deep and abiding love. Father Phelan, one of the novel’s many memorable hardscrabble characters, tends often to the abundances of philandering and alcoholism:

“’You’d be a half-decent priest if you gave up the drinking and whoring,’ she told him. – ‘Half-decent, he said, wouldn’t be worth the sacrifice.’ He was mean and mercurial and abrupt, the sort of man you could imagine slipping through an outhouse hole when circumstances required it. He was fond of quoting the most outrageous or scandalous confessions from his recent travels, he named names and locations, adulteries and sexual proclivities and blasphemies. He had no sense of shame and it was this quality that marked him as a man of God in the eyes of his parishioners.” (Ch 1)

Michael Crummey is a new experience for me, and what a treasure! His writing is superb – his mastery of Newfoundland’s vernacular seemingly effortless. I’ve long been enamoured of Canada’s East coast writers – our Atlantic storytellers have a way with a yarn which is exactly my cuppa. And Crummey has certainly earned a place of honour among them with Galore. I’ll be looking for more of his work. Very highly recommended.

“– You’re giving up the drink, Father? – I’d sooner be dead.” (Ch 4)

Wow! What a review! 4.5 stars out of 5? Hmm - sounds like a lot of magical realism? Do you think I would like the magical realism ? He was mean and mercurial and abrupt, the sort of man you could imagine slipping through an outhouse hole when circumstances required it. He was fond of quoting the most outrageous or scandalous confessions from his recent travels, he named names and locations, adulteries and sexual proclivities and blasphemies. He had no sense of shame and it was this quality that marked him as a man of God in the eyes of his parishioners.” (Ch 1) You have my delicate sensibilities blushing ! What a wild sounding tale! Thumb!

I've had Galore on the shelves for several years but your and Bonnie's love for it is making it creep closer to the top of the TBR..... Nice review, Nancy!

You hit me with that one, Nancy! Very nice review - thumb from me, too. Happy Friday to you!

>64 vancouverdeb: Deb, I do think you would enjoy Galore. Magical realism doesn't always work for me (or you either, I know), but I tend to think of Galore as more Newfoundland folklore. It is a wild tale, to be sure!

>65 katiekrug: Hi Katie, it was Bonnie's love for Galore that prompted me to read it. I'm only sorry I took so long! I do hope we've help you bump it up the queue.

>66 Crazymamie: Happy Friday, Mamie, thanks for the thumb … enjoy the bullet!

I just put Galore on my library list a few days ago and your review confirms that I made the right choice indeed! Being Canadian, I really have no excuse not to get my butt into gear and read it sooner. ;)

Hi Nancy - Galore sounds great. Wonderful comments. Thanks for commenting on the Shreve. I've read some of hers that I liked and was wondering about this one. I think I'll pass.

Thanks for the bouncing mouse on my thread, Nancy! :) I see you have a couple of Nancy Drew's up next. I suppose we will all be having another nostalgia time here on your thread. Well, off in my white roadster for now. I've got Ned waiting on me.

Newfoundland - hmmm...an ignorant as me can only think of the movie "Shipping News" and there was a bit of folklore in that movie also. Great that you have discovered a new Canadian author to read more of.

Looking forward to your views on Nancy Drew - happy weekend :)

Just thumbed your wonderful review of Galore Nancy. I have two other Crummeys on my shelf that I want to read too: The Wreckage and River Thieves. And speaking of Canada's east coast writers, have you read Wayne Johnston's Colony of Unrequited Dreams?

>68 jolerie: Val, I hope you will enjoy Galore as much as I did! Crummey is a great Canadian discovery!

>69 BLBera: Hi Beth, Galore was great! I've also read some Shreve novels I've enjoyed: Fortune's Rocks and The Weight of Water.

>70 vancouverdeb: Deb, enjoy your white roadster, and Ned! (I've never read Nancy Drew, so I've no idea who you're talking about, LOL, but I'll find out). BC Library2Go only has two Drew mysteries on audio. Darn!

>71 ctpress: Hi Carsten, not ignorant at all! In fact, I was going to write in my review that Galore is somewhat reminiscent of The Shipping News, but review was already getting too long. I also loved the movie of Proulx's novel. Newfoundland has a wonderfully rich folklore. Thoroughly enjoyed the first half hour or so of Nancy Drew … never read her as a young girl. Shame!

>72 brenzi: Thanks, Bonnie! Oh, I'll be standing by to see what you think of the other Crummey novels you've got on hand. I've got Sweetland in my iPad, a new acquire. Mark just did an excellent review of it. I've not yet read Johnston's Colony of Unrequited Dreams, but thanks to you, it has been on my WL for some time.

More Crummey love! Hooray! Excellent review of Galore, Nancy! Thumb! I hope that inspires a few more LTers to check out this talented author.

What are you following it up with?

>74 msf59: Thanks, Mark! Yay for Crummey love! And thanks to you and Bonnie for putting this wonderful author in the forefront of my thoughts. I hope more LTers will check him out, too. Following up with Heyer's The Corinthian, a bullet I took at Peggy's thread yesterday.

Bonnie has been warbling to me about The Colony of Unrequited Dreams, since I've known her. AND, I have it on shelf...unread. Shakes head and sniffles.

I have not read Heyer.

>76 msf59: Make me smile, Mark: Shakes head and sniffles. We both must read The Colony of Unrequited Dreams … SOON!

Hmmm. I have *TCoUD*. I'm likely to read that before Galore. Since you and Bonnie both loved it, I should be jumping on it, but for some reason (I think reason is definitely the wrong word) I just can't quite commit to it.
Read and Review on, my friend!

>78 LizzieD: Peggy, my reading choices also have nothing to do with reason. That would mean I organize and plan my reads, and nothing could be further from the truth! Hope you will eventually decide to read one or both of these Newfoundland tales.

OK, so there was some discussion on Deb's thread about pets' reading and computer skills. Not to be left out, Cairo immediately had to demonstrate his tech-savvy skills!

Smart--like you!!! ; ) Thanks for saving my the time on the Shreve book. Bummer. She is usually a safe, quick read. Crummey sounds much more enticing!

>81 Berly: LOL, Kim! I agree that Shreve is usually a safe, quick read. Think I'll stick with her older books. Crummey is definitely in another league!

I agree that Shreve's earlier historical fiction is readable. Sounds like Rescue is one for me to avoid.

Maybe Cairo could start a blog?

My but Cairo does look formidable there at the computer, Nancy and I suspect he is far more advanced than either Poppy or me on with his computer skills, with you as his teacher. I think you know I am some what challenged at times when it comes to technology , so I bow to Cairo!I'll bet he does not even lick the keys, like Poppy might, or use sticky fingers as Dave accuses me of doing! * sighs to self - husbands *

Okay everybody to their corners for round two. I must hugely admit that both Cairo and Poppy are in the elite league along with the perfect HRH (Maggie) whose exhausting afternoon at the keyboard has made her curl up at the other end of the sofa next to my new read Black Beauty. #29. Thanks for the good advice . Yes, sigh...... husbands, I understand.

>83 nittnut: Hi Jenn, yes, safe to skip Rescue, for sure! What a fabulous idea that Cairo start his own blog … I must speak with him about this, LOL!

>84 vancouverdeb: Deb, Cairo looks more advanced on the computer than he actually is, I think. Very often, I find him asleep on the job … half on my lap, half on the keyboard. And he could very well be using sticky fingers, too!

>85 mdoris: Mary, delighted you are reading Black Beauty! (probably rereading) I hope you enjoy as much as I did. I agree that Cairo, Poppy, and HR Maggie are all very fortunate to belong to an elite group of tech-savvy pets … though, as you point out, it is exhausting work!

Cairo looks very much at home on the computer. I love the program he has chosen. It shows off his shiny black coat very nicely!

Oh, we all need an "escape" author, don't we? I've read some Anita Shreve books back in the day but got tired of them. I think Stephen King and Anne Tyler are my "escape" authors these days. Stephen let me down on his last one (which you've already commented on…thx for sharing my pain). I hope A Spool of Blue Thread holds up better when I finally get it from the library. She's a popular author so there are many holds in front of me.

I am currently reading a book by a Canadian author who has been on my WL for a long, long time…Through Black Spruce by Joseph Boyden. I can see right now that I will be reading more of his books.

>87 Donna828: Hi Donna, I've never been a King reader, but you've got me very interested in Anne Tyler as a new "escape" author.

Hope you enjoy Through Black Spruce. Boyden is a popular and acclaimed Canadian author. I picked up Three Day Road a couple of years ago from a colleague's desk, read a couple of pages, and have never gotten back to it. I must!

Happy Sunday, Nancy! I haven't been drawn to any of Shreve's works and based on your review of Rescue, I haven't been missing anything. I probably shouldn't be so happy that the Shreve read was a dud for you but you are notorious for hitting me with BBs... so the good news is I continue to hold your book judgement in high esteem. ;-)

>63 lit_chick: - Now we are back in safe BB distributing zone. ;-) Wonderful review of Galore. I haven't read anything by Crummey yet, although I do own a copy of River Thieves.

Give Cairo a pet/hug from me. Any animal that will lie across a keyboard get my thumbs up!

How go the bathroom renos?

Ha! Go Cairo!

I have Galore on my tbr shelf. You tempt me. Lovely review!

>89 lkernagh: Thanks, Lori. I'm going to leave Shreve be for a bit. Donna gave me a wonderful idea at #87, and I'm going to try Anne Tyler as an "escape" author. So glad I could help with a bullet on Crummey's Galore. I've declared him a Canadian treasure, and to think Galore is the first of his works I've read. I've since downloaded Sweetland to my iPad …

Cairo appreciates all complements and affection : ).

Bathroom renos are coming along slowly. Tub is in position as we speak.

>90 sibylline: Thanks, Lucy. I think Galore is one you would really enjoy. Cairo thanks you, too, for your cheering him on with his computer skills, LOL.

Cairo is one handsome, intelligent young man! Tully and Hilfy show no interest in the keyboard at all; the one wants lap time and the other covets this chair.

>80 lit_chick: Cats are excellent on their computer skills, especially their ability to leave their hair between the keys.

Note to self: get Buddy to start using the computer more consistently to keep up with the more elite LT pets like Cairo.

@94 Bonnie, elite LT pets! :) Perhaps Cairo!

An escape author is always a good thing, I think, Nancy. I've enjoyed Anne Tyler in the past, but have not tried one of her newer books. You know me and my penchant for Flavia and a good mystery - those are my escape books, I think. And I love to find something new in the bookstore - like A Man Called Ove - there is a nice bit of well written , enjoyable reading . Lately there has been nothing new from Karin Fossum, my old faithful. I do have The Wreckage by Michael Crummey on TBR pile , but it's not calling me, despite your wonderful review and glowing assessment of Michael Crummey- but I've got a book on the go and anothor one in the wings.

So happy for you that the bathroom reno is coming along so well! With Cairo as your supervisor, things should run smoothly and quickly. Is there anything that Cairo can't do?

>92 LizzieD: Hi Peggy, Cairo thanks you : ). Tully and Hilfy sound to have the life of a cat worked out just perfectly.

>93 thornton37814: Lori, definitely no shortage of short black hair on my keyboard absolutely everything in my house!

>94 brenzi: Bonnie, Buddy is one bright and active looking little guy. I predict he'll be a fine computer student!

>95 vancouverdeb: Deb, I know that you enjoy Bradley's Flavia, and I wanted to enjoy her, too. Just couldn't make the step, and didn't read beyond the first in the series. Glad you also like Anne Tyler. I've got some Scandi-crime still to read, Karin Fossum included (at least I don't think I finished her series). Hope you'll read something by Crummey when the mood strikes : ).

Is there anything that Cairo can't do? Um, I haven't let him drive yet. He's a very curious little guy and I'm afraid he would keep his eyes on the road!

Happy weekend! Love the picture of Cairo, as usual.

LOL at Cairo driving! I'm sure Poppy would give it a try at the first opportunity. That's why I buckle her into the car when she drives with me! :)

Enjoying all the Crummey chatter!

Hope you had a nice weekend, Nancy.

>97 The_Hibernator: Thanks, Rachel : ).

>98 vancouverdeb: Deb, Cairo travels in a cat bag when he travels. He's not impressed about it, but there it is!

>99 msf59: Love the pun, crummy chatter, Mark : ). Hope your weekend was lovely, too.

Just thumbed your review of Black Beauty! Great review.

>63 lit_chick: Well, I went to add Galore to the BlackHole only to discover it is already there. Maybe my local library will get it one day :)

>101 mdoris: Thanks, Mary : ).

>102 alcottacre: Hi Stasia, lovely to see you! I think you will love Galore.

Just stopping by to say hi and have a lovely day! Off to walk the dog, rather late in the day for both of our tastes , especially hers! I might be in Poppy's doghouse by now!

Awww Cairo totally looks like he is up to some serious taking over the world business. You watch your back, Nancy! ;)

>104 vancouverdeb: LOL, Deb, hope by now you are out of Poppy's doghouse!

>105 jolerie: Aw, Cairo thanks you, Val!

>63 lit_chick: I like the sound of htat one!~ I am interested in Newfoundland too, since I saw some gorgeous photographs of the area online. Wow.
*wishlisted*

>107 LovingLit: Hi Megan, if you're interested in Newfoundland, I think it's safe to say you'll love Galore. NL is home to a lot of very beautiful scenery.

Nancy, when I was 16, my family - 4 kids ( one was left behind ) traveled to Halifax for an Eastern Canada tour. We flew and drove - Halifax, Sydney, PEI, - had to see Anne of Green Gable's house, Cape Breton , Bay of Fundy , and my dad said - how about we get on ferry to Newfoundland? We had also been to Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto , Niagara Falls, New York State and we all said no more travel, dad, including my mom. When there are 4 kids , aged 10 - 16 , traveling can get tense! :) But how I regret that we did not take the ferry to Newfoundland.

>109 vancouverdeb: Hi Deb, I've also never been to Newfoundland. I've been many times to our maritimes, but have never ferried over. I think we both need to put it on a bucket list!

16.
The Secret of the Old Clock, Carolyn Keene



Rating: 5/5

2007, Listening Library, Read by Laura Linney

Book Description: Girl sleuth, Nancy Drew, is introduced in this audio version of the first book in the series. After aiding an injured child, Nancy accidentally stumbles upon the mystery of Josiah Crowley's missing will. While several of Crowley's impoverished relatives claim that he had included them in his will, his arrogant relatives, seem to possess the only copy, which leaves them in total possession of the deceased man's fortune. Nancy is intrigued by the situation and begins searching for Crowley's missing antique clock, an object that reportedly contains a clue to the will's location. During her investigation, she encounters a series of obstacles, one of which is the theft of the clock by thieves. Nancy's rescue of the clock ultimately leads to her discovery of the real will.

My Review:
Who knew discovering Nancy Drew in my mid-fifties would be such a delight! Nancy herself, of course, is the star of the show, but I am impressed with the secondary cast of characters here, too: the aging Turner sisters, guardians of little Judy, who want only the best for their ward; the much younger Hoover sisters, childhood neighbours of the deceased Crowley, who were fond of him; 80-year-old invalid Abbey Rowen, always pleasant despite her challenges; Jeff Tucker, a kindly farmer who’s dreamed of travelling; and, by contrast, the arrogant, entitled, and greedy Topham family. I’m expecting to meet again with Carson Drew, Nancy’s father and successful attorney, and their housekeeper come family friend, Hannah Gruen. The plot plays out well, as does the mystery story, but I was more impressed with the theme: that those who have help those who have much less – and in doing so, enrich their own lives as well as the lives of others. Laura Linney, who narrates this audio version, is, well, Laura Linney: fabulous! Her pronunciation and timing are perfect, and all of the characters are clearly delineated. Occasional background music is used effectively to indicate moments of tension. Highly recommended!

>110 lit_chick:, Nancy I have been twice to Newfoundland, which is a bit of a long haul from where I live and I loved it. It is wild and beautiful and the people will give you lots of stories to tell. I hope that you get there some day. We went first to the east coast and our next visit was to the west coast where there are lots and lots of moose, kind of dangerous. I would go back in a heart beat!

>112 mdoris: Hi Mary, I'll bet NL is wild and beautiful! I've met enough people from that end of our country to know they've got lots of stories!

Wonderful that you are reading one of my childhood favourites! I adored the Nancy Drew books when I was growing up. Audio seems like a fantastic way to re-experience them. :)

Hooray for Nancy Drew! I LOVED them too. I've listened to them on audio with the kids, they like them that way. My daughter hasn't really read any, but she'd probably love them now. I looked at the local library, and sadly they only have the newer ones, which aren't nearly as good.

A five star read for The Secret of the Old Clock. So glad you finally discovered them! Now you have a go - to series at the ready! Sounds like the audio - book experience was a good one! If you have not already met George and Bess and Ned Nickerson and the roadster/ blue couple - you have a lot of treats coming your way!I popped out to the library and while I am not sure right now is the time for me to read it, I picked up a copy of rapid read ( only 7 days) of Sweetland. At least this will give me idea of what it is all about and if I don't have time for it in the next week, I have a hold on it for a regular 4 week check out time. Thumbed, of course.

Nancy Drew ...now that takes me back! Interesting to see they still work even for us more "mature" readers.

I've been wondering about Laura Linney's narration for this book - glad it was such a hit! Guess it's one I'll be getting my hands on sooner than later.

Happy Thursday, Nancy!

>114 jolerie: Hi Val, I was aware of Nancy Drew growing up, but did not read them. How lovely that the books were favourites for you! The audio with Laura Linney is fabulous!

>115 nittnut: Hi Jenn, wonderful that you are re-experiencing Nancy Drew with your children. BC Library2Go only has two of the Linney audiobooks; I hope it will get more.

>116 vancouverdeb: If you have not already met George and Bess and Ned Nickerson and the roadster/ blue couple - you have a lot of treats coming your way! Woot! Thanks, Deb! I'm wanting to read Crummey's Sweetland, too. Perhaps later this year …

>117 lauralkeet: Hi Laura, sounds like Nancy Drew was a favourite of yours, too! I expect I'm in a minority, reading the novels for the first time at this age, LOL!

>118 LauraBrook: Thanks, Laura. I hope you enjoy Linney's narrations as much as I did!

Oh my The Mystery of the Old Clock was a favorite of mine and I do believe I have a copy of it hanging around here somewhere.

>120 brenzi: Bonnie, delighted you were a Nancy Drew fan, too, and that The Secret of the Old Clock was a favourite : ).

>16 lit_chick: - Well, that review just sold me on thinking about re-reading the various Nancy Drew - and Hardy Boys - mysteries! I had no idea there were recent audiobook versions of my childhood favorite stories... that is such dangerous information to have. ;-)

Oh, Nancy Drew! Love her.

What fun for you to be listening to Laura Linney read Nancy Drew. What a fan of her I was! Just so intense. I think the LD and I boxed up the books we decided we had to keep. But I might have decided to pass them along.

One could write a dissertation about the importance in children's lit, couldn't one, of the orphaned or half-orphaned (best if it is the mother) child? Bereft of one or both parents, the message is that the child develops independence and skills they might not otherwise have to. Nancy is such a classic case.

>122 lkernagh: Lori, I think you would really enjoy Nancy Drew à la Laura Linney. She is so fabulous. Laughed out loud at your quip: that is such dangerous information to have. We've done this a few times with audiobooks, you and I … I'm thinking of the bullet I took on Montalbano!

>123 scaifea: Hi Amber, welcome aboard the Nancy Drew train!

>124 sibylline: Lucy, I love how many fans we've got on board here who loved Nancy Drew. Sounds like you passed your fandom onto your daughter : ). I missed Nancy Drew completely in my youth … that is, I was aware of her, but more interested in riding horses than reading at the time.

Yes, the dissertation of the orphaned or half-orphaned youth: there must be a host of grad students somewhere who've written on this. I only had the opportunity in university to take one children's lit course, but it was SO fabulous! I would have loved to have had time for more.

Wow, your explorations of 1001 Children's Books are off to a flying start. Great review, Nancy of Nancy Drew :) - thumbs - and with the recommendation of Laura Linney's narration I've already been to audible and downloaded it - looking forward to another good read. Have a great weekend.

>126 ctpress: Thanks, Carsten, I am thoroughly enjoying my adventures in 1001 Children's Books … and, in great part, I have you to thank for the suggestion! I hope you love Laura Linney's The Secret of the Old Clock as much as I did.

Nancy - Well, you make me want to revisit Nancy Drew. My daughter never really liked them, so after trying with her, I put them away. Maybe Scout.

>128 BLBera: Definitely Scout! Oh, you'll have such fun, Beth!

Hi Nancy, I am a Laura Linney fan, her movie roles, her voice and her presence. The discussions about Nancy Drew have taken me back in time. We had many of them in our "growing up home" and they were well loved. I will look to see if our library has any of the audio versions! Thanks!

LOVED Nancy Drew! The Hidden Staircase was my favorite. Read that one! Read that one!

Hi Nancy, just passing by to wish you a very happy weekend my dear.

So you really were that girl , the girl that loved horses and rode them! A youth of dereliction! :) What do you think Mr Carson would say, Nancy? And with your real fist name being Nancy, conceivably you are Mr Carson's daughter. Are you Nancy Drew, the celebrated sleuth or not? What I do know is that you are hot as usual with your review! :) Happy Saturday Nancy -whoever you are! :)

>130 mdoris: Hi Mary, I am also a fan of Laura Linney: so talented, and so NON-celebrity. I hope your library has some of the Linney narrations of Nancy Drew.

>131 LizzieD: Yay to another Nancy Drew fan, Peggy! I will definitely read The Hidden Staircase. Unfortunately, my library only has two of Linney's narrations, so I'm going to buck up and buy 3-4.

>132 johnsimpson: Thanks, John, and same to you and Karen : ).

>133 vancouverdeb: Hi Deb, I was that girl! Carson Drew would probably have told me to "Get off that horse! People less fortunate than you need your sleuthing skills sharpened!"

17.
The Corinthian, Georgette Heyer



Rating: 4/5

“If you want to know what I think, which I do not suppose you do, so you need not tell me so, it is that you are spoilt, Richard. You have too much money, you have done everything you wished to do before you are out of your twenties; you have been courted by match-making Mamas, fawned on by toadies, and indulged by all the world. The end of it is that you are bored to death. There! I have said it ..." (Ch 1)

Sir Richard Wyndham, son of the widowed Lady Wyndham, is the Corinthian. He has long been "understood" to marry the unpleasant "iceberg" Melissa Brandon; but he is “behaving in the most odious way!” (Ch 1) He’s getting away with it too: for not only is he “spoilt,” as his sister Louisa has pointed out, but he is handsome, fashionable, muscular, resolute, and disarmingly rich. What’s more, when it comes to Melissa Brandon, he is beyond bored. The Brandon family, he knows, is staring ruin in the face, and seek to make him a member of their clan in order that they might bleed his fortune. What he needs is a woman who is fashionably rich in her own right; then, and only then, he surmises, could he be certain of genuine attraction. Enter Penelope Creed: young, rich, beautiful, and on the run from her aunt who insists she will marry her “fish face” cousin. Sir Richard finds himself chaperone to “Pen” on an adventure which begins, to his dismay, by public stagecoach. They’ll encounter three conspiring stooges who’ve nicked a valuable necklace, one of whom will end up murdered. Too, they’ll meet with a past suitor of Pen’s whose about to elope with the silly, crying Lady Daubenay. Oh, and there’s the law to deal with over that pesky matter of murder. And it just gets better!

Appreciate Georgette Heyer so much! The conclusion to The Corinthian, at least for Sir Richard and Pen Creed, is predictable from the start, but Heyer is so charming that the formula is a wonderfully entertaining success. Readers who enjoy historical fiction and historical romance really must make Heyer’s acquaintance! Recommended!

Wonderful review of The Corinthian, Nancy. You may have sent me a book bullet, even if there is some romance in the story. Hmmm- Enter Penelope Creed: young, rich, beautiful, and on the run from her aunt who insists she will marry her “fish face” cousin. I wonder if that is anything like having to marry a horse faced royal? Like Princess Anne? I do think you would enjoy The Girl on the Train and so far I'm very much enjoying A Test of Wills. Right now, Inspector Rutledge is investigating a murder , in post WW1 England, with one Miss Lettice Wood, and her guardian is Colonel Wood. Sounds a wee bit like The Corinthians.
I had forgotten that Carson Drew was such a man of duty. Get on it, Nancy, sharpen your sleuthing skills, if only by reading a mystery or thriller!

And thumb of course.

>136 vancouverdeb: Thanks, Deb : ). Wouldn't you just love having to marry a fish face cousin or a horse face royal, LOL! You are too much! So glad you enjoyed The Girl on the Train because I'm wanting to read that one. And if Inspector Rutledge becomes a new series for you, well … I'll probably have to take that bullet too!

>111 lit_chick: I haven't read a Nancy Drew for years but I remember enjoying them a lot when I was growing up.

>135 lit_chick: So glad you enjoyed The Corinthian - that's a good Heyer.

Hi Nancy - The Corinthian is one I remember enjoying, too. Heyer has such a great sense of humor.

Love your writing, Nancy. Enjoying with a smile the "iceberg", the "fish face" and the "handsome, fashionable, muscular, resolute, and disarmingly rich" Wyndham.

Corinthian sounds just like a perfect Heyer romance plot.

Have only read one and a half Heyer - Charity Girl - and then still trying to finish Sylvester but I got distracted from that one. But I will return to Heyer at some point.

>138 souloftherose: Hi Heather, another Nancy Drew fan! You're right about The Corinthian: it is a good Heyer!

>139 BLBera: Hi Beth, isn't Heyer's sense of humour wonderful!

>140 ctpress: hehe, thanks, Carsten : ). I remember that you did not have a good experience with Charity Girl, but I think The Corinthian is one you would enjoy. You're right that it is just like a perfect Heyer romance plot.

18.
The Wind in the Willows, Kenneth Grahame



Rating: 5/5

1989, BBC Audiobooks Ltd, Full Cast Dramatization
Read by Richard Briers, Adrian Scarborough, Terence Rigby, Alan Bennett

From the Publisher:
"...there is nothing - absolutely nothing - half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats." So says Rat, as he welcomes the lonely Mole to the community of the River. Whether messing about in boats, touring in Toad's motorcar, or simply relaxing at home, Mole, Rat, Otter, Toad, and Badger demonstrate the honourable human characteristics of kindness, patience, and tolerance toward all that have made this classic tale beloved by generations since it was first published in 1908.

My Review:
I adored this reread/listen of a favourite childhood classic, and can’t say enough about this fabulous, exuberant performance! Toad is priceless: pretentious, fashionable, and victim of his own fortune and obsession with motor cars! The animals’ cooperative, and eventually successful, efforts to teach him to become “one of them” are humourous and wonderfully endearing. Highly highly recommended.

Further Note from BBC Audiobooks Ltd: Many of the original cast from Alan Bennett's acclaimed National Theatre production appear in this special dramatization for BBC Radio 4 including Richard Briers as Rat, Adrian Scarborough as Mole, and Terence Rigby as Albert with Alan Bennett as the narrator. A wonderful, highly-acclaimed dramatic performance of a classic novel.

Glad you enjoyed The Wind in the Willows. :) I read that book when my cousin was going through a really hard time with alcoholism and Toad's obsession reminded me a lot of my cousin. I think a re-read when I'm in a better mood would be a good idea!

>143 The_Hibernator: Thanks, Rachel. I can see Toad's obsession reminding you of alcoholism: that I know this will end badly but will continue do it anyway pattern.

It has been ages since I last read The Wind in the Willows, which is one of my favorite childhood books. BBC Radio 4 produces wonderful dramatizations.... I will be on the hunt for that one!

>145 lkernagh: Lori, I didn't know about BBC Radio 4 producing dramatizations until I found this audio of The Wind in the Willows at Library2Go! It is fabulous! I went looking for more of the same BBC productions and also found Tom's Midnight Garden and The Railway Children at Library2Go.

I confess I don't really remember much of The Wind in the Willows. I read it back when I was young, and I was never that fond of animal books. Are you sensing a theme here? I was a mystery reader and my " obligatory " sort of reads ( eg Black Beauty etc and my mom trying to steer me towards Noel Streatfield some sort of ballet dancer book for kids. Not my kinda thing.I did love growing up with a variety of dogs . I did enjoy ridiculous books such a Harlequin Romances along with my friend when I was in Grade 7 - 8 and me and my friends roared with laughter while we read our Harlequins.

Great review!

Oh the The Railway Children - now you onto my kind of books. E. Nesbit was a fabulous writer!

>142 lit_chick: Okay, wealth (in gold) of information (BBC Radio audios) . I must launch into the audio world! I have been looking at our stash of kids books and thinking re-reads. But this is a great direction too!

>147 vancouverdeb: Deb, heaven help your poor mom trying to steer your reading tastes! Got a chuckle out of you and your friends laughing while reading Harlequin romances. I read The Railway Children in my one children's lit course, but I confess remember little of it. Looking forward to a reread.

>149 mdoris: Oh, Mary, you must launch into audio world and explore some of BBC's dramatized productions ... you have grandchildren, too! What fun!

Wind in the Willows is one of my all-time favorite classics. What a wonderful story. I can imagine it would be perfect in the hands of some british actors. Thanks for the tip on National Theatre productions, Nancy. I'll have to see what they got on Audible. Tom's Midnight Garden is on my list of Children's books I would like to read.

Oh, yay for The Wind in the Willows! And I loved Tom's Midnight Garden, too. However, I think I may be the only person who really doesn't like E. Nesbit...

>151 ctpress: It's one of my favourites, too, Carsten. It is a wonderful story! I saw several of the BBC Dramatizations on Audible. Tom's Midnight Garden is another from my long-ago children's literature course.

>152 scaifea: Hi Amber, great to have another children's lit fan on the thread! Glad you loved The Wind in the Willows and Tom's Midnight Garden. I read The Railway Children so long ago that I can't say yet what I think of E. Nesbit.

Oh my mom was a stern task master and I a" pleaser" daughter, Nancy. I broke out of my pleasing personality mould finally somewhere in my twenties. It's tough to be the eldest. It was my two younger sister's who were the rebels .

I wonder how I escaped childhood without The Wind in the Willows. I did, alas. Maybe someday.....

>154 vancouverdeb: Wonderful to break out of pleaser mild, isn't it? I'm the eldest, too.

>155 LizzieD: I escaped The Wind in the Willows in childhood, too, Peggy, but it caught up with me in university : ).

Longlist:

Outline, Rachel Cusk
Crooked Heart, Lissa Evans
Aren’t We Sisters?, Patricia Ferguson
I Am China, Xiaolu Guo
Dear Thief, Samantha Harvey
Elizabeth is Missing, Emma Healey
Station Eleven, Emily St. John Mandel
The Offering, Grace McCleen
The Country of Ice Cream Star, Sandra Newman
The Girl Who Was Saturday Night, Heather O’Neil
The Bees, Laline Paull
The Table of Less Valued Knights, Marie Phillips
The Walk Home, Rachel Seiffert
A God in Every Stone, Kamila Shamsie
How to be Both, Ali Smith
The Shore, Sara Taylor
A Spool of Blue Thread, Anne Tyler
The Paying Guests, Sarah Waters
After Before, Jemma Wayne
The Life of a Banana, PP Wong

I was just going to tell you that the Orange Longlist was up! Thanks for putting it here! It's also in the Bailey's / Orange section. I've only read Elizabeth is Missing of the bunch. I do like Anne Tyler and I'd like to get to A Spool of Blue Thread. I've just ordered Aren't We Sisters? from amazon ca. I hope it will be decent!

>158 vancouverdeb: Hi Deb, I've also read Elizabeth is Missing, and I have A Spool of Blue Thread in my iPad waiting ...

Thanks for posting the Orange LL, Nancy. I've only read Station Eleven and The Paying Guests. If my library cooperates, I'll be reading the Anne Tyler soon. I also have Elizabeth is Missing on the WL. I'll wait for the SL announcement before deciding on further Orange reads.

I am loving your reviews of the children's books you are listening to. It's like a walk down Memory Lane for me. Thank you!

>160 Donna828: Donna, I've been looking at The Paying Guests, but haven't decided on it yet ... must go and look at some reviews. You gave me the idea for Anne Tyler, so that one's in my iPad waiting. Beyond that, I will also wait for the SL.

Glad you are enjoying a stroll down memory lane!

Be a stranger! I have a new thread for you to visit. Aren't we Sisters arrives tomorrow! :) Still, I've no idea what it will be like , other than it is fiction, contraception, three young women ( I think they are young, young enough to worry about contraception, anyway ) and takes place in the 1920's in Britain. Supposedly it is ultimately a happy read, but is about 400 pages long . Ah, so fortunate you are to have Blue Spool at the ready! I will mostly wait for the short list too, because I was burned by a book or two last long list. Some real duds and who is to say that Aren't We Sisters? is not among the duds. Time will tell!

Yes, I am not keen on The Paying Guests. A long tome and I read some rather middling reviews.

I've had The Paying Guests on my shelf since last August when I received it as an ER win. This at least gives me a reason to pick it up, Nancy. Unfortunately I had three very lengthy books come in for me at the library because, well, because that's some sort of unwritten library rule: if you request more than one book at a time, they will all come in at once. There are no exceptions to this rule. And, just to prove their point, they allow this to happen to me every single time I place a hold;-)

>162 vancouverdeb: Deb, it would never do for me to miss a new one of your threads! I'll be there directly, LOL! I hope that Aren't We Sisters is an excellent read!

>164 brenzi: Bonnie, you're right that the LL is an excellent reason to pick up The Paying Guests since it's already waiting on your shelves. Grr, I think my library and your library have been passing notes on the unwritten library rule. The same thing NEVER fails to happen to me when I've got more than one book requested.

Hi Nancy! My wish list is a LOT fatter than it was a few minutes ago! Loved your review of Galore, and of Laura Linney's Nancy Drew. I loved sharing those books with my mom when I was a girl. I loved the audio of The Hidden Staircase -- our favorite Nancy Drew!

and WOW -- what a review of The Wind in the Willows! I will look for that version.

Great picture of Cairo at the computer:)

Finally my thread feels " balanced now' Nancy! I'm hopeful about Aren't We Sisters. I read a review or two online and some one else here on LT said that they enjoyed the book very much, but as yet have not gotten around to reviewing it. So , let's cross our ( my ) fingers. ;)

>166 AMQS: Hi Anne, so glad I could help you fatten up your list, LOL! Both you and Peggy have said The Hidden Staircase is your favourite Nancy Drew, so I'm going to have to buy that one. My library only has two of Linney's audiobooks. I think you will LOVE BBC's dramatized The Wind in the Willows.

Cairo thanks you. He has been slacking on his computer skills recently, ha!

>167 vancouverdeb: Deb, make me smile with your balanced thread : ). Fingers crossed here too for Aren't We Sisters to be a knock-'em-down good read!

>167 vancouverdeb: Deborah, Aren't We Sisters is the one from the list that popped out at me as a thumping good read. I'll be excited to hear what you think about it. It's not as pricey as some, so if I hadn't promised myself Epitaph when I finish *All Light*, I would have put it on Kindle already. I looked at all of them, and I think this list looks better than some in past years.
Hi, NANCY!

Ah, another Orange-list. I haven't read any of them - and are not familiar with the author's except for Anne Tyler. Could be interested in reading A Spool of Blue Thread - The Bees looks interesting (saw it described as Watership Down for the Hunger Games generation) - hmm....I will wait and see what you guys are reviewing before the shortlist.

>169 LizzieD: Hi Peggy, LOL! Let's hope Aren't We Sisters does turn out to be a thumping good read!

>170 ctpress: Hi Carsten, my attitude towards the list is much the same as yours: wait and see. I do have A Spool of Blue Thread and Elizabeth is Missing was excellent.

Hi Nancy. Oh, this was just a trip down memory lane! I am so glad that some of my favorite kid reads are translating well to adulthood. I have a few of my Nancy Drew books downstairs (the rest are at my parents house still) and I think I may have to pull one out for a re-read! Very nice reviews. And thanks for the Orange-list. Happy Friday!

I went into Vancouver to the " Big Chapter's yesterday, and I so want A Spool of Blue Thread now that I've seen it! I think I can safely cross The Bees of my personal TBR list, as well as The Table of Less Valued Knights . Those did not look remotely interesting to me. Of course, Chapter's did not have many of the books on the Orange list, so it was not that much help. My copy of Aren't We Sisters arrived today, but I'm still reading my current book. Nice sunny warm days here, I imagine the same for you.

>172 Berly: Hi Kim, enjoy your Nancy Drew re-read! Most welcome for the Orange List. (another rebel, with the Orange! Love that!

>173 vancouverdeb: Hi Deb, nice that you got into Chapters and had a look-see. A Spool of Blue Thread really has my attention, too, but I am still reading, very slowly I might add, Three Day Road. I'll get there …

Gorgeous warm, sunny days here too! Bring.It!

I'm looking forward to seeing who makes the shortlist. There are definitely a couple of books on that longlist that I either already have or want to borrow from the library at some point.

I read The Wind in the Willows a couple of years back, but it didn't quite connect with me as much as I would have liked. I think maybe because I was reading it on vacation so I was probably so distracted, nothing would have held my attention at the time..ha! Will have to slot it in for reread at some point to see if I feel differently the second time around. :)

>173 vancouverdeb: - What?! You are going to pass on The Table of Less Valued Knights? Really?! I read that one and .... *quickly goes and checks library stats* .... hummmm.... it appears I gave it a whole 3.5 stars. Yah, you are right, it was a fun read but not prize worthy.

Hi Nancy! Aaaaahhh...., the longlist! I love to see excitement build when a short list is announced. Since I have only read 1 book - The Table of Less Valued Knights - and gave it a relative average 3.5 rating, I am going to give you my completely random guesses at the books that will comprise the shortlist when it is announced. These are not my choices but what I think the judges will come up with:

I am China by Rachel Cusk, Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel, The Offering by Grace McCleen, How to be Both by Ali Smith by Laline Paull and After Before by Jemma Wayne

Here is hoping you have a wonderful weekend.

>175 jolerie: Hi Val, I'm doing very little with the LL, too. If you listen to audiobooks, I highly recommend The Wind in the Willows on audio. The BBC dramatization I listened to was superb!

>176 lkernagh: Hi Lori, your own SL predictions: impressive! I confess I've given almost no thought to the LL, other than I have A Spool of Blue Thread in my iPad. I'm hoping Deb likes Aren't We Sisters.

>157 lit_chick: I've read The paying Guests, Elizabeth is missing, Station Eleven and How to be Both and all of those are worthy of the longlist (or indeed shortlist) in my opinion. Also read The Bees which was OK but no more.

>178 SandDune: Woot! Thanks, Rhian! You're certainly better versed in the LL than I. Have just been to your thread and read your fabulous review of The Paying Guests, on which I took a bullet : ).

Nancy, since you asked, no I have not read The Paying Guests. I did look at in the bookstore and came home and looked up and put up published reviews on the main page of Paying Guests here on LT. From the " professional reviewers" it has mixed reviews. Some love it, other feel it is overly padded and gets to be over-dramatic. But I confess Sarah Waters has yet to appeal to me as an author, so don't take my word for it. I have Little Strangers on my bookshelf and it has been there for about 3 - 4 years. I have no doubt that Paying Guests could be worthy contender for the Orange Prize, but it does not appeal to me. I'll have to check Rhian's review. Here on LT it has a 3.5 overall star rating.

>180 vancouverdeb: Thanks, Deb. Yes, I see The Paying Guests has an overall LT rating of 3.5*, usually not enough to entice me forward. But since I posted on your thread, I've discovered that Juliet Stevenson narrates the audiobook (not yet available but on order at my library), so think I'll go this route. As many have said, Stevenson would be sublime reading the phone book!

Well, let me know what you think! I should have said and I've edited my post 180 to say don't take my word for it. When I am curious about a book that kind of appeals to me, I love to look at other people's reviews and that helps me decide. Well, if Juliet Steveson narrates the audiobook, why not go for it? Do let me know what you think.

Hi, Nancy. You know, I'm never more than coolly polite to S. Waters when I'm not reading her, but I did happily read The Little Stranger last month. I gave it 3½ stars too, but that doesn't mean that it wasn't fun while it was going on.

>182 vancouverdeb: Thanks, Deb, will let you know when I get hold of the audiobook. It's on order.

>183 LizzieD: Thanks, Peggy. Hmm, beginning to think I might also only be lukewarm on Waters. Well, if anyone can make a novel (audiobook) worthwhile, it's Juliet Stevenson.

>181 lit_chick: I listened to the Juliet Stevenson audiobook version, so I can recommend it. She is a good narrator isn't she?

>181 lit_chick: I'm listening to her narrate Persuasion. I love the book but she makes it even better.

>185 SandDune: Oh, thanks, Rhian; I didn't realize you'd listened to the audiobook. Juliet Stevenson is exceptional!

>186 charl08: I agree, Charlotte, that whatever Stevenson is narrating, she makes it even better!

Wishing you a very Happy Sunday my dear.

>188 johnsimpson: Thanks, John, you, too : ).

Well , the day that Dave and I were supposed to embrace the 21 st century proved a bit disappointing. May we are meant to stay in the previous century? The guy came and put in all the stuff for HD channels - took him 2 hours but we are supposed to get a free flat HD TV in the deal . No one said from where, but I assumed the service guy would bring it but no, today as we shifted from Shaw to Telus, Canada Post , no less, will be shipping at standard speed our new Samsung TV. sighs! Really, Canada Post? Not even UPS, Fedex or something? No chance of expediting the package, because I asked. It's like maybe we moved back into the 19th century. Just my luck!

Oh and the young man of mine that I will so miss - he has not moved out yet. I guess he really loves me, but I think he thinks I give off cooties. Last night I went in to tease him for THE FIRST TIME ( really ) about how 2-3 weeks ago I texted him to stop off and purchase a jug of milks and a package of bagels on his way home but he said no, because he will be moving in the next day or too and will not need to eat that. He truly is busy with his work, but still . So anyway I went to tease him a wee bit and in so doing sat on his bed. He looked at me in horror and said -don't sit on my bed. Anyway, Dave and are beginning to eye his room with relish - we've both got ideas of what we can do with that space! :)

Hi, long time no see! I've been on and off committed to lt lately. It happens.
Just doing the rounds, so, hello!

>190 vancouverdeb: Oh, Deb, Canada Post? Seriously? You'll be a while yet before you're in the 21st century. Disappointing, indeed.

>191 vancouverdeb: LOL, Deb! I think this is probably a story that many other parents can relate to, in terms of the No, I'll be moving tomorrow …. I'll be curious to know what you and Dave decide to do with the space! Yay!

>192 LovingLit: Hi, Megan : ). Yes, it happens!

>187 lit_chick: I'm hoping she's done the rest of Austen's books - I'd like to listen to the unfinished book (title escapes me) rather than read.

>194 charl08: Hi Charlotte, I know Stevenson has narrated several of Austen's novels, not sure about all of them.

Oh good idea. I am going to look up Juliet Stevenson on the library website to see what we have! I purchase few books but just bought H is for Hawk for my birthday boy and he says it's very good.

In our library there is an audiobook narrated by Juliet Stevenson of The Signature of All Things which I really enjoyed reading.

>196 mdoris: Hi Mary, I've got The Signature of All Things narrated by Juliet Stevenson, too, but I've not listened yet! I hope you find lots of selection by Juliet Stevenson; she really is marvellous. Bonnie (brenzi) just read H is for Hawk and gave it a glowing review.

The Signature of All Things was one of my favourite reads of 2013!

>197 mdoris: ooh, tempting! Thanks everyone.

>199 jolerie: Val, good to hear! Thanks : )

>200 charl08: Charlotte, this one is on my radar too : ).

Hi Nancy! Happy weekend to you -- any plans?

>202 AMQS: Ah, no plans today, Anne : ). Spring break has been busy with renovations (drywall-mudder coming Monday), furniture selling (cleaning out some LR and den furniture), furniture shopping (ideas for new). It's been fun, but I'm not by nature a shopper, and I find it exhausting. Happy weekend to you, too.

I hope you have a lovely no-plan Saturday

Wow! Re-decorating your place! Nice, Nancy, but a lot of work , I'm sure! Have fabulous do - nothing Saturday! OH! And today was my last day for the IV antibiotics, unless something goes wrong -but I am so delighted! Now just 5 days of oral antibiotics! Free of every morning at the hosptial!!! Yeah!

Oh, furniture shopping. For me, that can be as fun - or as frustrating - as clothes shopping, depending on the idea I have in my mind and what the stores have on offer. Never go shopping with me when I am on the hunt for a white button front blouse.... seriously, you would think that would be an easy item to find. NOT! I am rather particular about my purchases. ;-)

Happy weekend, Nancy!

>204 The_Hibernator: Thanks, Rachel : )>

>205 vancouverdeb: Deb, delighted to hear you are finished with the hospital! yay! You're right about re-decorating: fun and frustrating in equal measure a lot of the time.

>206 lkernagh: Oh, Lori, I so hear you! Not being a shopper, many of my experiences are more frustrating than fun. I, too, am very particular. Seriously, I've had the white button-front blouse experience on more than one occasion. Isn't this a classic item of clothing that never goes out of style and should be readily available? One would think!

19.
The Secret Garden, Frances Hodgson Burnett



Rating: 5/52003, Tantor Media, Read by Josephine Bailey

“One of the strange things about living in the world is that it is only now and then one is quite sure one is going to live forever and ever and ever. One knows it sometimes when one gets up at the tender solemn dawn-time and goes out and stands out and throws one's head far back and looks up and up and watches the pale sky slowly changing and flushing and marvelous unknown things happening until the East almost makes one cry out and one's heart stands still at the strange unchanging majesty of the rising of the sun …“ (Ch 21)

From the Publisher:What secrets lie behind the doors at Misselthwaite Manor? Recently arrived at her uncle's estate, orphaned Mary Lennox is spoiled, sickly, and certain she won't enjoy living there. Then she discovers the arched doorway into an overgrown garden, shut up since the death of her aunt ten years earlier. Mary soon begins transforming it into a thing of beauty--unaware that she is changing too. But Misselthwaite hides another secret, as Mary discovers one night. High in a dark room, away from the rest of the house, lies her young cousin, Colin, who believes he is an incurable invalid, destined to die young. His tantrums are so frightful, no one can reason with him. If only, Mary hopes, she can get Colin to love the secret garden as much as she does, its magic will work wonders on him.

My Review: Hodgson Burnett’s writing can’t but warm the heart, particularly as she describes the very beautiful secret garden, and the children’s luminous joy in having found one another. Too, her theme does not grow old: that kindness, friendship, and the beauty of nature can make whole and well again that which seemed doomed to illness, bad temper, and grief. Most memorable character for me in this reread is Ben Weatherstaff: loved the rough old gardener with the soft edges, his beloved little robin, and his quiet wisdom. Josephine Bailey does a superb job of delivering this favourite classic in audio format.

Great review of The Secret Garden . I really loved that when I read it as a child. I've forgotten all the details that you mention, but I confess when was in the second hand book store a few days ago, I saw Black Beauty and almost succumbed to a second read, due you glowing praise of the book. Maybe there is more to Black Beauty then just " plain old horse" as I saw it when I read it when I was young. The Secret Garden was a magical read for me and it would seem for you too! All those orphans in the books for kids , at least in our day. I wonder if that is still a theme among young readers today? I'm out of the younger reader's stream of books.

Oh by that way - on Monday I will enter the 21st Century when my Flat Screen Smart TV arrives by Canada Post. I even have a tracking number for it. I gave TELUS a bit of " kindly heck" about the TV issue and I think that may moved it along a little faster! ;)

>209 vancouverdeb: Thanks, Deb. I really did find The Secret Garden a magical read. Don't know whether orphans are still a going theme in children's books. Hmm, Anne, if you're reading, help us out! I loved Black Beauty as much for its beautiful lessons on compassion and kindness as for its horses.

You go! TELUS needs some kindly heck, and I've no doubt that it moved the matter along!

Nancy, you are certainly an inspiration for the reading of kids' books. I loved reading The Secret Garden to our kids when they were young and have a wonderful edition so I must put it on the list to read again. Hope you are having a wonderful spring break and getting to put your feet up. Happy spring!

I haven't read The Secret Garden yet, I mean to at some point, probably to Wilbur. 5/5 is a pretty good endorsement!

I agree, Nancy. A magical story. Probably the best of the three famous Burnett novels (Little Lord Fauntleroy and A Little Princess being the other two.

I also listened to it but knew the story beforehand having seen the movie adaptation from 1993 several times. The movie is highly recommended (Maggie Smith as the strict governess).

It is well worth a reread and rewatch.

You are choosing some very good children's classics - and The Secret Garden are really for all ages :)

>211 mdoris: Thanks, Mary. I'm reading selections from my long-ago children's literature course. Interestingly, all of these are also in 1001 Children's Books. Having a wonderful spring break!

>212 LovingLit: Oh, Megan, you must read it! I predict Wilbur will love it, too!

>213 ctpress: Thanks, Carsten. Appreciate the reminder of Burnett's other novels, and may read these at some point too. I've seen the movie adaptation only once and it was many years ago. Must watch again. I think my library has this one.

Oooohhh... The Secret Garden.... now, that one brings back fond childhood memories of reading in a quiet corner of the family garden. ;-) Was that a BCLibraries audiobook download?

>215 lkernagh: Hi Lori, yes, I downloaded The Secret Garden from BCLibraries. I can't recommend this audio version more highly!

Ohhhh I loved The Secret Garden and Colin when I read it in seventh grade Nancy. Oh my gosh, you've brought it back quite vividly for me.

Oh, The Secret Garden. I loved it as a child, but never got around to reading it to the girls. We have good intentions, but our reading aloud days are so limited now that Callia is in high school. I hope they'll pick it up some day. And I hope I will, too! I know I have a copy around here.

We love The Secret Garden too. We also love her A Little Princess. Sweet stories.

>206 lkernagh: About the shopping. I don't like it either. If I find something - a pair of jeans or a white blouse - that I like, I buy two. Or three. Just so I don't have to go look again. Boring, perhaps, but for the basics, it doesn't hurt to have backup. :)

Good luck with the renovations and the furniture shopping.

Just a speak, Nancy...... Shopping! Better you than me unless we're talking books!

>217 brenzi: So glad you loved The Secret Garden too, Bonnie. I am going to watch the movie next.

>218 AMQS: Anne, I just adored this audio version. Perhaps you and your girls will listen to it at some point.

>219 nittnut: Hi Jenn, I'm going to see if my library has A Little Princess and Little Lord Fauntleroy.

Oh, I can SO relate to finding a piece of basic clothing that you like and buying two or three! Been there, done that. Have some furniture ideas but nothing solid yet.

>220 LizzieD: Aha, Peggy, I see you feel the same way I do about shopping, LOL!

>216 lit_chick: - I am on the hunt to narrow my search for the audiobook.. Apparently there are three different audiobook versions available through Hoopla and two versions downloadable through the other library services like BCLibraries. I am now wading my way through the choices and hope I come across the version read by Josephine Bailey. ;-)

>219 nittnut: - Always a good plan. I am a bit of a sucker in that I keep hoping that a more refined/tailored cut will come out and I can glom onto that style.... in which case, I will buy half a dozen. ;-)

>222 lkernagh: I hope you find it too, Lori. I found The Secret Garden here at BCLibraries. The one narrated by Josephine Bailey has the dark red cover:

The Secret Garden is my all-time favorite book. I think I have read it 6 times, at least. I still have my copy from when I was a little kid.

>224 Berly: Hi Kim, love that you still have your copy of The Secret Garden from childhood.

I remember watching The Secret Garden as a kid and was absolutely fascinated by the story. It was the movie version with the Greensleeves song?? I can't wait to read the actual book. 5 stars is sure compelling! :D

>226 jolerie: Hi Val, I remember thinking the movie was really well done, too, but I haven't watched it for many years. I hope you will love the book! Not sure I'm following you on the Greensleeves song ...

I do think you will enjoy Aren't We Sisters?, Nancy. On another note, I have recovered from the younger son moving out. And sadly, my flat screen tv that was supposed to harken my entry into the 21 st century is still not here. Canada Post! It is coming by expedited post, but somehow they shipped it out to North Vancouver in error, or so it says on Canada Post's website. Still , it has yesterday as our expected delivery date. Canada Post - most of the time they are fine, but when they get it wrong they really get it wrong. I speak from an experience I had mailing a book to friend and it showed delivered, but it had not been delivered. Canada Post gave my friend the 3 rd degree , as if we were attempting mail fraud!!!! It had $100 insurance on it and boy , it took a lot of phone calls to get it sorted out. Then - 6 months later it arrived out of the blue to my friend -the original package. Canada Post. Sigh.

Don't mind me, I'm not sure if I follow myself on the Greensleeves song either, Nancy! I don't know if that is the name of the song or it is played during the movie. It's been too long.
Ok..I went to google it.

Google: Does anyone know what the name of the song is that the cook is singing in the background as Mary comes downstairs?
Answer: Greensleeves.

For some reason that scene stuck out to me of all things. Does that ring a bell?

>228 vancouverdeb: Hi Deb, from reading your notes on Aren't We Sisters on your thread, I think it is one I will really enjoy, too! Oh, woe is Canada Post! I agree: it seems to get it either REALLY right or REALLY WRONG! No happy medium there, that's been my experience.

>229 jolerie: Hi Val, OK, now I am so curious I have to watch the movie for sure! I can't really say the song rings a bell because I haven't seen it in so long. I'll bet I know just what you're meaning when I'm into the movie. I'll be thinking, Aha! That's what Val was talking about!

Either that, or you might think, What the heck is Val on??? Let's hope that isn't the case....haha! ;)

Still no TV. I'm thinking it is Canada Post purgatory. Today one of my books was supposed to arrive via Canada Post, but it hasn't . I have my fingers and toes crossed that all three books and the TV arrive tomorrow via Canada Post. * sighs*

Good news, Nancy! At last the TV arrived and so did a A Spool of Blue Thread at 7:30 this evening. Unfortunately Dave is off to work tommorow AM and likely will not have time to hook up the TV. Tis a man's job, hooking up TV's! :) Lucky one of my sons was home this evening to lug the TV in the door a few minutes ago, since Dave is out. :)

Well, congratulations to Deborah on having the 21st century in the house!
I'm just by to say hi, Nancy, before I head off to bed. I'm afraid to say anything else in case it doesn't make sense. And I'm waiting impatiently for Aren't We Sisters?.

>231 jolerie: LOL, Val! Yes, that is possible too, I suppose!

>232 vancouverdeb: Just came from your thread, Deb, so I know Canada post has delivered your 21st century TV! Woot!

>233 vancouverdeb: Ah, and A Spool of Blue Thread, too! Canada Post has redeemed itself for the moment.

>234 LizzieD: Hi Peggy, hope you had a wonderful night's sleep! Here's to Aren't We Sisters arriving posthaste.

Yes, Canada Post had redeemed itself with me , at least for now . Truthfully , the majority of the time Canada Post is very good, but when they go bad, they go bad! UPS is bringing A Measure of Light and Evening Chorus today and now I will be spoilt for choice. And who knows, knowing me I'll pick up something that I've had for 2 years sitting around on my shelf . How is Three Day Road. I have it around the house, waiting for some " love' or at least for me to read it. I started a few pages in several years but could not get into it at that time. But one day I will. Poor old Mary Lawson's books sat around at my place for quite a while until I "discovered her." :)

>236 vancouverdeb: Deb, it's interesting that you picked up Three Day Road a few years ago, read a few pages, and it did not appeal at that time … I did the same thing! However, I really wanted to give Boyden another shot, and Three Day Road is excellent. I'm very slow with renovations still consuming spare time, but I'm very glad to be reading it.

Reno Update: Put the drywall sealer/primer on today, throughout the new main bathroom and the large linen closet which backs that room. There are still several pieces of the puzzle to come together: two coats paint, re-install cabinet, hardwood flooring installer, new countertop, etc. But we're on the home stretch, and I couldn't be more pleased. It's been a real learning experience, one I'm glad I decided to participate in hands-on. Oh, and I had some help today painting, so that's always good!

20.
The Railway Children, E. Nesbit



Rating: 4/5

1993, BBC Audiobooks, Full Cast Dramatization

Book Description: from BookDepository.com
This is a BBC Radio full-cast dramatization of E. Nesbit's enchanting and unforgettable classic. Roberta, Peter and Phyllis lead an ordinary suburban life with Mother and Father and trips to the zoo and the pantomime. But when Father is mysteriously taken away one night, everything changes. The children must move to the country, to a little white cottage near the railway line, where eventually they find that there are plenty of adventures to be had and friends to be made – including Perks the Porter and the Station Master himself. But the mystery remains – what has happened to Father, and will he come back? The story of Roberta, Peter and Phyllis and their life in the country has never been out of print since it was first published in 1906. Charming, sentimental and unforgettable, the novel retains all its enchantment and enduring appeal in this BBC Radio full-cast dramatization.

My Review:
Thoroughly enjoyed Nesbit’s The Railway Children and cannot say enough good about the full cast dramatization: it is superbly done. The simple, charming, ordinary suburban lives of Roberta, Peter, and Phyllis made me appreciate having grown up before our world became its present frantic, high-tech society of progress. Favourite characters are Perks and the Station Master. Most memorable scene is Perks’ birthday, on which the children bring a host of gifts from themselves and from neighbours. Perks is adamant he will not take what he sees as charity, but when the children read to him the messages from his neighbours, he comes to understand that his neighbours are not patronizing him but rather appreciating him as a valued friend and member of his community.

Ooh I can't wait to see your finished reno project and you are so right about learning all these valuable new skills. We totally want to reno our house at some point when the boys are grown up, but that's probably like a decade in the future. A girl can't help dreaming though!

I'll have to see if the library has The Railway Children. Sounds intriguing. :)

Cairo is so well behaved ! What a great helper you have! Glad that the bathroom is coming together . Poppy would be all over the paint, and likely chasing my hand as I tried to paint. Poppy is counter surfer and also has to poke her nose into everyone else's business. Today when I went to greet her good morning, I guess it was " too early for her" , because I got a growl and a leap forward as if to give me a bite. So I waited for a couple more hours before I approached her again, with a treat. She accepted her treat with grace later in the morning. She is one with her own opinions. Then when we popped into the pet store for a new stuffed toy, she was so excited to see one of the employees, she peed with excitement on the floor. A problem we encounter quite often with Poppy, as she actually really loves me and sometimes she loves me that much too! :) Poppy came to the right people I guess. It's like raising a teenage girl, maybe? Everything is a big drama for Poppy.

Great review of The Railway Children. I just loved that book and everything that E.Nesbit wrote. The simple, charming, ordinary suburban lives of Roberta, Peter, and Phyllis made me appreciate having grown up before our world became its present frantic, high-tech society of progress. Very true, but when I read the books way back when , who could see how much the world would change?

I love the picture of Cairo in the midst of reno undertakings! I love that they find just the best spot to be. I would have a cat in a heartbeat but allergies of the "better" half so it's a no go. He looks like a very good supervisor and looks like you will love things when completed.

Hi Nancy--Good thing "management" came in to check up on the work progress!! Looks like things are coming along well. I have not read Nesbit, but i could use a little time away from the "present frantic, high-tech society" that is today. As long as I can still have my computer for LT time. : )

>240 jolerie: Morning, Val, I think you're smart to wait on renovating until your little boys are a bit older. Otherwise, a sure method to madness, LOL! I found The Railway Children audiobook at BCLibraries, so hopefully you will find it too. I imagine AB must have the same provincial digital library, as well as local branches?

>241 vancouverdeb: Morning, Deb, aw, I just love the Poppy stories! Keep them coming! I couldn't help but smile that she was so excited to see one of the pet store employees that she peed on the floor. What a little sweetheart, teenage girl and all! Yes, she sure came to the right home.

You're right about us having read these children's books way back when: who could see how much the world would change? And how fast it would happen …

>242 mdoris: Hi Mary, Cairo usually is where I am, and I love that about him. In the mornings when we get up, he won't come down the stairs until I do: sits as I make the bed, wash my face, brush my teeth, etc. I just love him to pieces! Seems that cat allergies are relatively common, but too bad your other half has to have them.

>243 Berly: Kim, you are so right about management coming to check our work, LOL! Yes, things are coming along well. I hear you about a little time away from frantic, so long as I have my computer.

Been a while since I commented, Nancy, so thought I should de-lurk.

Have a great weekend!

>245 katiekrug: Hi Katie, happy to "see" you : ). You have a great weekend too!

>239 lit_chick: Just joining in the love for E Nesbit.

Ditto the E. Nesbit love. Another book to put on the Scout list. My daughter tells me that she goes into her bedroom and closes the door, and when my daughter goes to check on her, she's sitting in her rocking chair, reading. I wish I could post some of the pictures. I just hope she continues with her book love!

Your bathroom is looking great -- do you hire out?

>247 charl08: Good to know, Charlotte!

>248 BLBera: And more Nesbit love, Beth! I love your Scout story: closing her bedroom door to read in her rocking chair. I wish you could post photos, too!

Many thanks for bathroom compliment. Definitely do not hire out, LOL! Think I'm hanging up my hammer after this go … at least for a good while!

I'm envious of your new bathroom and not about to give it a try. It's great, and I can't wait to see the final result. Meanwhile, it's good to see Scout taking after you.

>244 lit_chick:, yes Nancy, we had a beautiful little kitten a siamese/burmese one that we named "Loki" (Norse mythology)and the name represents "home" and "mischief" which seems suitable for a cat and when the allergies presented I searched high and low for a good home for the "better half" but no one would take him so I had to re-home Loki. Sigh!

>250 LizzieD: Thanks, Peggy, I'll post the final result when all is done!

>251 mdoris: Drat that you were unable to re-home your husband, Mary! Oh, that made me chuckle.

I finally created a review for Aren't We Sisters?. After reading the book, I'm not so sure that we want to back to the days of yore, the uncomplicated times might not have been as uncomplicated as they are now. :)

What fun you are having with the children's books. I look forward to following this adventure.

I was somewhat horse-mad as well, but I always had time for reading!

On the classic and horses front:

Are the Marjorie Reynolds horse books on your list? Dark Horse Barnaby and on down the line!
Also there is a brilliant series starting with Pagan the Black set out west, Dorothy Potter Benedict.
And don't forget Marguerite Henry and Misty of Chincoteague!!

>253 vancouverdeb: Deb, delighted you've reviewed Aren't We Sisters … will be over directly to read it. In terms of social position of women, I don't think we want to revisit the days of yore either!

>254 sibylline: Hi Lucy, I'm having a wonderful time re-reading many of the children's novels I studied in the one children's literature course I had time for in university. I appreciate your recommendations of horse books! Woot!

Horse- mad! : Lucy makes me chuckle! Lucy is an excellent position to recommend classic and children's horse books - me, not so much! :)

I do recommend Aren't We Sisters?. It's just good old read, with as you say, a theme of the social position of women in 1930's Britain. I am not sure what book is up for me next. Part of me wants to move onto another Orange Longlisted book, A Spool of Blue Thread , and another part of me wants to read something else, but what I am not sure as yet.

It is a very warm day here today, so I'll be out with the dog fairly soon. The other day when I was out with Poppy, I thought I was going to catch a bit of rain, so I wore a long sleeved blouse with a light weight gortex shell and I nearly died of the humidity and warmth. We've had a lot of rain, but it's is so very warm. Perhaps today I will wear my capris with short sleeves - and then with my luck, a wind will come up! One cannot win!

You really make me want to read one of those BBC Radio full-cast dramatizations. I liked The Railway Children as well - but I guess I would have loved it even more if I've listened to the talented BBC-actors.

Hey, Cairo is supervising again? Or have he abandoned his post and are just chilling out? Hmmm...cats are unpredictable creatures :)

>256 vancouverdeb: Hi Deb, definitely interested in Aren't We Sisters? Thanks for your review!

We have had some beautiful warm weather too. Love love!!

>257 ctpress: Hi Carsten, definitely do try one of the BBC full dramatizatiobs. My prediction is that you will want to listen to more than one!

Yes, Cairo supervising again ... or at least relaxing right where he pleases in the middle of my paint station, LOL. Cats are indeed unpredicatable!

And just as I thought! Today when I took the dog out, I put on a light nylon shell over top of my short sleeved T Shirt. Result - rained and was windy and I was a bit on the chilly side . You just can't win :) Or I can't win, maybe you can! ;O)

Wow, 37 posts later and I am now caught up. Great job with the renos and yay for Cairo assisting, in a manner that only a cat is capable of! ;-)

>259 vancouverdeb: Deb, I hear you about the weather. There are certain times of year here in the Okanagan where one literally needs to carry a change of clothes, LOL! And this is one of them!

>260 lkernagh: Hi Lori, made me smile: in a manner that only a cat is capable of!

Nancy, it looks like your renovations are coming along nicely…and it's good to have Cairo there giving you support from the sidelines! I have many fond memories of The Secret Garden. I bought my daughter a copy of it when she had wisdom teeth extracted. She was college-aged and slightly miffed that I gave her a "children's" book. Of course, it was just the right thing at the right time and she loved it. I don't know how she got through her childhood without me thrusting it at her! I might have to do a reread sometime just to bring back the warm fuzzies...

*Wave!

>262 Donna828: Hi Donna, what a lovely memory of buying your daughter The Secret Garden when she had her wisdom teeth out. Yes, the reno is coming along very nicely. Cairo has been just wonderful in the support department, LOL!

>263 nittnut: *Wave back* Jenn!

Thanks for the bunny :) A happy easter from Denmark. I can see you are reading (listening) to Tom Sawyer. I was actually thinking of re-reading it again - I have the Grover Gardner narration ready.

>265 ctpress: You're welcome, Carsten. Enjoy your lovely Easter holiday. I'm also listening to the Grover Gardner narration of Tom Sawyer.

Happy Easter weekend, Nancy!

Stopping in to wish you a fine weekend. Ah Tom Sawyer narrated well, that would be a treat.

I loved that audio of Tom Sawyer! Grove Gardner is excellent.

Have a great long weekend, Nancy!

>267 lkernagh: Thanks, Lori : ).

>268 sibylline: Thanks, Lucy. Enjoying Tom Sawyer narrated, though admittedly not as much as some of the other children's delights I've listened to recently.

>269 katiekrug: Thanks, Katie. Grover Gardner is indeed excellent. He narrates all of the Montalbano books I started the year off with. Hmm, must get back to some of those.

Hi Nancy, just stopping by to send Easter wishes to you my dear, love and hugs.

Just stopping by to wish you a Happy Easter Weekend! Dave is working all weekend, but I'll dinner with the family on Sunday. Almost finished A Blue Spool of Thread. I've really loved reading it - just a 10 pages or less to go! Not sure what is next - maybe Maisie Dobbs , which I purchased by mistake, well, the reason is complicated. But I'm not sure what is next. In my memory I mixed up the last name of an author I wanted to purchase and that is how I came to have Maisie Dobbs. Oh well! It looks kind of fun. :)

>271 johnsimpson: Thanks, John : ).

>272 vancouverdeb: Thanks, Deb. Enjoy dinner with your family on Sunday. Woot! I am delighted to hear about A Spool of Blue Thread … hmm, perhaps that'll be next for rme. Have fun with Masie Dobbs.

Happy Easter Nancy!

I thought of you, Nancy, when I saw this. I love your screen name!

>274 lauralkeet: Thank you, Laura : ).

>275 Donna828: Aw, sweet! Thanks, Donna : ).

Happy Easter!

Here's a little treat

>277 nittnut: YUM! Thanks, Jenn!