Mark's Reading Place #9: Mi es tu Castillo

Audiobook:



Graphic:


Books Read So Far...

February:

17) Dept. of Speculation by Jenny Offill 4 stars
18) A Trail Through Time (Chronicles of St Mary Book 4) by Jodi Taylor 4.2 stars (audio)
19) Euphoria by Lily King 4.5 stars (audio)
20) The Night Watch by Sarah Waters 4.2 stars BAC
21) Hard Magic (The Grimnoir Chronicles) by Larry Correia 3.8 stars (audio)
22) The Secret History of Wonder Woman by Jill Lepore 4.5 stars (audio)
23) Washington Square by Henry James 4.2 stars AAC
24) Sabriel (The Old Kingdom) by Garth Nix 4 stars (audio)
25) Boneshaker (The Clockwork Century) by Cherie Priest 3.8 stars
26) The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins 4.2 stars (audio)
27) Sweetland by Michael Crummey 4.3 stars
28) The Sculptor by Scott McCloud 4.5 stars GN
29) Brideshead Revisited by Evelyn Waugh 4.4 stars BAC
30) The Here and Now by Ann Brashares 3.3 stars (audio)

March:

31) Get in Trouble: Stories by Kelly Link 4.4 stars
32) The Frozen Thames by Helen Humphreys 4.5 stars
33) Find Me by Laura van den Berg 3.6 stars
34) The Narrow Road to the Deep North by Richard Flanagan 4.7 stars (audio/partial)
35) The Sportswriter by Richard Ford 3.7 stars (audio) AAC
36) Jamaica Inn by Daphne Du Maurier 4 stars BAC
37) The Book of Unknown Americans by Cristina Henríquez 4 stars (audio)
38) Mermaids in Paradise by Lydia Millet 4 stars
39) Tunneling to the Center of the Earth: Stories by Kevin Wilson 4.4 stars
40) Embassytown by China Mieville 3.7 stars (audio/partial) BAC
41) Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel 4.6 stars (audio/print)
42) March: Book Two by John Lewis 4.5 stars (GN)

April:

43) Bring Up the Bodies (Wolf Hall, Book 2) by Hilary Mantel 4.5 stars (audio)
44) Epitaph: A Novel of the O.K. Corral by Mary Doria Russell 5 stars
45) The Plague of Doves by Louise Erdrich 4.3 stars (audio)

American Author Challenge 2015

Carson McCullers- January
Henry James- February
Richard Ford- March
Louise Erdrich- April
Sinclair Lewis- May
Wallace Stegner- June
Ursula K. Le Guin - July
Larry McMurtry- August
Flannery O' Connor- September
Ray Bradbury- October
Barbara Kingsolver- November
E.L. Doctorow- December

**If you are interested in the American Author Challenge, check out the main thread:

https://www.librarything.com/topic/185195

Mark's Picks:

January - Carson McCullers - The Ballad of the Sad Cafe Completed
February - Henry James – Washington Square Completed
March - Richard Ford – The Sportswriter Completed
April - Louise Erdrich - The Plague of Doves and possibly The Round House
May - Sinclair Lewis – Babbitt
June - Wallace Stegner - Beyond the Hundredth Meridian
July - Ursula K. Le Guin - The Dispossessed and possibly a re-read of A Wizard of Earthsea
August - Larry McMurtry – Pretty Boy Floyd and I would LOVE to do a reread of Lonesome Dove.
September - Flannery O' Connor - Everything That Rises Must Converge
October - Ray Bradbury - The Golden Apples of the Sun and possibly a second.
November - Barbara Kingsolver - Pigs in Heaven and possibly a NF choice
December - E.L. Doctorow – World's Fair?

I thought this would be a good idea, to keep track of what is coming up and to supply links when they are available.

March:

Richard Ford American Author Challenge: http://www.librarything.com/topic/188271

April:

Atwood April: http://www.librarything.com/topic/189477#
Louise Erdrich American Author Challenge: http://www.librarything.com/topic/189382#

I am not sure what I will be reading in April as my reading time has been curtailed due to course work obligations and just not enough time in one day.

Happy new thread, Mark! I like the top topper! Really like it!

>5 benitastrnad: Did you even notice you were # 1, Benita? Do you even care? LOL.

Sorry to hear about the busy work life.

>6 Storeetllr: Thanks, Mary! I had no idea what my topper was going to be and I spotted that one and liked it. It must be a bookshop in France, right?

Happy new thread, my friend! Looking forward to more book warbling. :D

Mark, I am slowly managing to get round the threads and I am pleased to see you are as productive as ever. Closing in on Amber at this rate. Happy New Thread mate.

Happy new thread, Mark! Love the thread toppers that you picked this time around!

Who's reading the audio version of Wolf Hall? (Sorry, if you said before, I missed it or have forgotten.)

Check out Coutney Barnett *check*
Think she's awesome *check*
Find a new hair style for myself *check*
I have a lot to thank you for, Mark.

Happy new thread, Mark.

Did you feel the earthquake tonight? I was out to dinner with a friend but didn't feel a thing. I think it was centered near Crystal Lake, in McHenry County.

>8 jolerie: Thanks, Valerie! The warbling will never stop. That is a promise.

>9 PaulCranswick: Thanks, Paul! I am just chugging along, my friend.

>10 Crazymamie: Thanks, Mamie! The toppers were off the cuff, but I am happy with them.

>11 laytonwoman3rd: I have, both the print and audio version of Wolf Hall going, which is working out well, Linda. It is narrated by Simon Slater, who is doing a terrific job. It looks Simon Vance reads the 2nd one. Grins...

>12 LovingLit: B.A.G!!!! I am very happy about that, Megan. I just listened to the album in it's entirety tonight and I love it too. What an amazing talent she is and still so young.

Happy new thread, Mark. Is it spring weather yet?

Hi Mark! Happy new thread. Love the bibliotheque thread topper!

Mark, the TV finally arrived at 7:30 this evening as well as A Spool of Blue Thread. So I am warbling! :)

>14 msf59: B.A.G.? Um, big and goofy? Barnett all good? Bad ass girl? You have me on that one :)
Maybe I will buy her album, I mean buy. The actual CD. Some people still do that, the last one I bought was Ladytron which I really like.

Hi Mark! Congrats on another new thread. You are an amazing reading force. : ) Enjoying Wolf Hall?

Good morning Mark, congrats on another new shiny thread. I love the topper pics.

Happy new thread, Mark!

3 days down, 3 to go! Just pluggin' along. Feeling a bit better. The symptoms have eased. Deep into Wolf Hall now. I might finish it tomorrow. What?

I will post the Erdrich AAC and the Atwood April thread, in the next few days.

>13 lindapanzo: Thanks, Linda. No, I did not feel an earthquake but I heard about it on the radio this morning. A 2.9?

>15 Familyhistorian: Thanks, Meg. We are stuck back in a chilly weather pattern. Only in the low 40s today. I want another taste of the 60s.

>16 AMQS: Thanks, Anne! Big Waves from the Midwest!

>17 vancouverdeb: Warble On, Mama! Yah, for the new TV and the new Tyler!

>18 LovingLit: B.A.G.= Big Ass Grin. Although, I like Big And Goofy, too. Glad you liked the Barnett. I have not bought a cd in a long time, but I might also buy this one. Do you guys have Spotify, the internet music site? It is invaluable, for sampling music.

>19 Berly: Thanks, Kimmers! Yes, I am loving Wolf Hall. There are a few slow spots, but the good stuff, always roars back. Cromwell is such a great central character.

>20 Ameise1: Thanks, Barb. Glad you like the toppers.

>21 scaifea: Morning, Amber! And thanks!

>1 msf59: I love the topper - beautiful sign.

Morning Charlotte! It looks like my book sign topper, is a hit! Yah!

Good morning, Mark! BTW, no one hardly ever feels a 2.3 earthquake. Even 4.0 is sometimes not noticed.

Sweet Thursday, Mark! We head back tomorrow. What a great time it's been. Hope all is going well for you this week.

Morning, Mark! How is that cold doing?

>26 maggie1944: Morning Karen. This happened in the far northern suburbs but people did say they felt it. Who knows? It is a novelty for us, that is for sure.

>27 jnwelch: Hi, Joe! It sounds like you had a great time in NYC. Have a safe trip home.

>28 Crazymamie: Morning Mamie! My cold is working its way into my chest, which isn't bad. The coughing can be annoying. Thanks for asking.

An earthquake near Chicago! Glad it was a tiny one and everyone's okay!

Sorry about the cold weather we are sending your way. My nephew flew from NYC to Denver yesterday, and his flight had to be diverted to Dallas and then north to Denver because the storms in the Midwest were too intense to fly through. Our snow that fell yesterday, on the other hand, has pretty much all been melted now by the warm sunshine.

Hope your cold is gone soon!

Mark, what! Now I am a Mama!!! Not just an elderly limited housewife? Oh, you dumb postie Papa! :) Really, Lone Ranger, it has come to this?

Checking out the new digs Mark.

^I stopped at the library and picked up a copy of Stone Mattress. So, I am ready for Atwood April. It is going to be a busy book month, so I am not sure if I'll be able to bookhorn in two. I am also hoping to do two Erdrich books, for the AAC. I may have to take a pass on the BAC. WTH?? Sorry, Paul.

>30 Storeetllr: Thanks for your concern, Mary but this was a very mild earthquake. No stack of books fell over. Whew! Yes, it will be cold the next couple of days, only 32 tomorrow, but no snow in the forecast.

>31 vancouverdeb: I did not mean anything derogatory about "Mama". You are one, right? LOL. OMG! I forgot all about the Lone Ranger thing. How funny.

>32 luvamystery65: Howdy, Ro! Great to see you, mi amiga.

I'm excited for both Atwood and Erdrich next month, Mark. And it's my birthday month, so yay :)

>35 katiekrug: In the past few years, I've tried reading at least 2 or 3 Atwood titles, during AA but I may have to drop down to one and make up a title down the road.

I am also looking forward to Erdrich, Katie. She is one author I have over-looked, time after time. I will get her AAC thread up a little later.

Happy New Thread, Mark. Maybe there's hope for spring on the weekend. I'm hoping our snow melts in the next couple of days and that we are done with it.

I should try to finish In Other Worlds in April. I will definitely be reading The Antelope Wife, the new edition, which I will be using in a class this summer.

I am going to be working my way through Rebecca sorry weak-kneed, weak-willed heroine and all and don't think I will get to an Atwood book this April. I try to read one of hers during that month and thought I would do Alias Grace, but won't get to it this year. I don't know if I will get to any other of the challenges this month either, as I have lots to get done in the way of school work.

>37 BLBera: Sweet Thursday, Beth. It looks like we are going to be chilly right through the weekend. Ugh. Warmer on Monday...I hope.

In regards to Atwood, I always forget about Other Worlds. I would really like to read that and it would be great to find it on audio. Did you read Stone Mattress? I have not read her short fiction yet.

>38 benitastrnad: I really enjoyed Alias Grace and I would think it would make a perfect AA choice. I wish you could squeeze it in. Any R & R planned for the weekend?

Not sure I'll do Atwood April, Mark, but I am hoping to get to Master Butchers Singing Club for the AAC. Looking forward to it. I've got about a week off next month (3 days at the beginning and 2 days at the end) so I'm hoping to get some extra reading in, next month.

Just yanking your chain, Mark! signed " Mama" aka Tonto! :) By the way, it's shorts and short sleeves weather here today . I just about fell over of heatstroke, wearing a pair of jeans and long sleeved shirt with a light rain jacket over it while I walked the dog. Really humid here today too!

^The Louise Erdrich thread is up: http://www.librarything.com/topic/189382#

>40 lindapanzo: If you decide to try Atwood, Linda, you might like Alias Grace, which would probably be your cuppa.

I also have Master Butchers Singing Club sitting on shelf. Poor guy.

>41 vancouverdeb: Your weather sounds great, Deb. I am looking forward to putting on my shorts and keeping them on. Looks off dreamily...

Happy new thread Mark!

Oh thank goodness the books are safe. ;)

Looks like April is going to be awesome with Atwood and Erdich. Me so excited!! :D

We have date for May, my friend.

Heya Mark. How's tricks?

>46 richardderus: What a nice surprise, RD! Great to see you. All is well, in Marky-Mark Land!

>44 Copperskye: Thanks, Joanne! Waves & Hugs!

>45 jolerie: Glad to see you excited about the Atwood and Erdrich, Valerie. I am too. We should have some good reading ahead of us. B.A.G.

I loved the lead story "Stone Mattress" when it was published in the NYer. I thought it very very clever, yes devious but it was a good and proper ending! Hope you enjoy the collection! Erdrich's Round House was a major favourite for me. I must read more.

Morning, Mark!

Suddenly, it is Friday! Sweet. What isn't sweet, is the fact that I looked outside and we have snow on the ground and it barely gets above freezing today. WTH? It's March 27th, people!!

I should finish Wolf Hall. Obviously, it would have taken me much longer just in print but I think the audio/print approach worked perfectly.

>49 mdoris: Thanks, Mary! I am looking forward to the Stone Mattress and I might squeeze in the Round House too.

>50 scaifea: Morning, Amber!

Yeah, we have snow, still, too, but not much. And it's supposed to get at least a little warmer this weekend, right?

It looks like a chilly weekend, Amber and things warm up on Monday.

We saw temps in the 70s yesterday. I wore a sweat shirt under my Instacart t-shirt, and was too hot! Oh my. I am not sure I am ready for the Seattle area to be flirting with Spring temps this early.

I am dipping back into the Wonder Woman book, and so far it has not grabbed me by the shirt, and said "read me, read me". I may have to put her down and rummage through the other TBR volumes sitting around here. French Milk is amusing.

Morning, Mark! You are in for a treat wit Stone Mattress - I LOVED that collection!

Merry weekend to you, old son!

Sorry mother nature just isn't cooperating with you!

We still have our winter tires on just in case as well......

First off: Has anyone read Norwegian by Night or heard anything spectacular? It is the Audible Daily Deal and I want to see if it is worth it.

Despite some sunshine, it remains cold and breezy.

>54 maggie1944: Morning Karen! Sorry to hear Wonder Woman isn't grabbing you. It really took off for me. I should request French Milk.

>55 Crazymamie: Morning, Mamie! Looking forward to Stone Mattress. Will you be reading an Atwood? Hmmmmmm?

>56 richardderus: Thanks, RD! You too!

>57 jolerie: Happy Friday, Valerie. It is supposed to start warming back up next week. Fingers crossed.

>58 msf59: Yes, it was on a deal a while back and I got it, read it very quickly. OK but not amazing, especially since reading A Man Called Ove.

Hi Mark! Happy Friday. I think that I will also read Stone Mattress next month, so we can have a club. I am not completely sure how I will bookhorn it in, but Atwood IS one of my favorite writers.

Copy of Love Medicine - check.
Copy of Cat's Eyes - check.
Copy of both BAC books - check.
Left over Henry James - Bleugh check.

Ummm I may have forgotten to check the time frame on all of this...

Belated Happy new thread, Mark!

Yes, I will be reading Atwood, but I haven't decided which one yet.

>23 msf59: re: high tech music. I have a tape player. It doesn't get the Internet ;) But, I do now get YouTube on the iPad that my dad gave us. It is his first one, as the daughter of an early adopter...I get some perks. So I can now listen to stuff other than the radio for new music. Yay!

>56 richardderus: bah! *faints* RD is here!
Cool.

Happy weekend to you Mark. I spent Friday night at the uni library working in my project...rock and roll.

Wolf Hall question: Did Mantel intend to write a trilogy or was this originally going to be a stand alone? I know she ends it, rather abruptly.

"He reemerges into the world. Knock him down and he will get up. Death has called to inspect him, she has measured him, breathed into his face; walked away again. He is a little leaner, his clothes tell him; for a while he is light, no longer grounded in the world, each day buoyant with possibilities."

^I finished Wolf Hall and I was mighty impressed. It is not always a fast read and it does bog down at times but her storytelling skills, her muscular, yet, glorious prose, teamed up with a treasure trove of historical drama, add up to a very satisfying read. Plus, I think I have a Man-Crush on Cromwell.

I am now ready for the Masterpiece presentation, on April 5th.

>60 charl08: Thanks, Charlotte. I think I will take a pass on Norwegian by Night. It's not the cost, as much as it is my teeming audio TBR pile. I do have A Man Called Ove on my To-Read list.

>61 banjo123: Happy Friday, Rhonda! Yah, a mini-group read of Stone Mattress. Looking forward to it.

>62 BekkaJo: I love that checklist, Bekka and the James "bleugh" made me chuckle. Honestly, I do not think I will get to the BAC for April, but you never know.

>63 connie53: Thanks, Connie! Hugs!

>64 Crazymamie: I will be waiting with bated breath for your selection, Mamie.

>65 LovingLit: Yah, for the iPad, Megan. And yah, for You-Tube. Hope you can squeeze some R & R time in this weekend.

Glad you enjoyed Wolf Hall, Mark. Your man crush will escalate April 5 when you see Mark Rylance as Cromwell!

Not even going to try to catch up, but I put this on Kim's thread and I'll put it here as I remember, from weeks ago, that there was some comment on Wolf Hall coming to the US.

It is probably the best depiction of Tudor England I've seen. Damien Lewis as Henry VIII was inspired, and having a relatively unknown actress as Anne was also good, but the male casting was brilliant. Mark Rylance gave such depth and intricacy in his performance (as Cromwell) as a man who stuck by his honour and his beliefs, who was tormented and conflicted but strove to do right, who had his own demons............it was simply fabulous.

And Lewis as a man lost but desperate, believing in his own right to rule but questioning himself and fearing making a mistake, in constantly searching for what God and his country wanted him to do........it is all wonderful. There has been criticism for the pace of the six episodes as it IS slow, intricate and detailed, and for the lighting and settings as they did a lot of it filmed by candlelight so it is dark and sparse, but for me it was nearest to what I imagined Tudor England, with candles and nothing else, could possibly be when filmed in the 21st century. I think you'll all love it, and I'll be bitterly disappointed if you all don't, though it would be useful to familiarise yourself slightly with the movers and shakers of the periods (Dukes etc) as the focus is on the politics and machinations of the time.

>66 msf59:. Glad you liked Wolf. I'm not going to give up on fit yet. Have a great weekend

>68 lauralkeet: Thanks, Laura! Man-Crush time. And I love Damian Lewis. How was Jonathan Pryce as Wosley?

>69 lunacat: You've been gone awhile, Jenny and then you return with a bang. Hooray! Great summation of Wolf Hall. I remember seeing the first season of The Tudors and it covered much of the same ground but I love the idea of it being from Cromwell's POV.
I am also a big fan of Damian Lewis. How was the actor who played Thomas More? I love that character.

A repeat question: So this BBC series is both books, right? Because I plan on starting Bring up the Bodies next.

>71 msf59: Yup it's both of the books, it goes up to the execution of Anne Boleyn and marriage to Jane Seymour.

Thomas More was acted extremely well but he was depicted as somewhat a villain of the piece. It is inevitable that there will be more a slant towards Protestant or Catholic (a battle that still goes on surreptitiously in many areas of the UK), but I think the writers and directors did as well as possible in not making any character a complete villain or saint. Because of the focus on Cromwell, he is seen mostly in opposition to the Protestant stance, but personally I found he had a fair hearing, and the swing from Catholicism to Protestantism was handled fairly, given the sources of the time. The acting is out of this world........absolutely brilliant. Not a foot wrong. The Duke of Norfolk is sublime

There is a picture gallery here which shows the actors/characters and their names. Very VERY useful to peruse it before/after/while watching. (Assuming it is available in the US - it's a BBC link but I'm sure you'll let me know if you can't see it)

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p02g3n38/p02g3cb5

Wow! Thanks again, Jenny. I was going to ask about the Duke of Norfolk, since he was also a favorite. A crabby asshat, for sure.

That photo gallery is perfect. It will be fun to see Jenny, from Call the Midwife, playing a different role.

>70 mahsdad: Sorry, Jeff, I missed you up there. Wolf Hall is a bit of a commitment but there is so much to enjoy and it will make the mini-series that much more palatable. Hope you can continue.

Wow, I am amazed at the speed that you dispatched Wolf Hall. It's still in the queue for me but so glad that you liked it. I tried several years ago but it was after an illness and I couldn't do it. Heave ho onward now....

Oh, my, does sound quite delish!

Sorry for brevity, I am posting on the iPhone from a grocery store parking lot. 😀

>75 maggie1944: Ain't technology grand? :)

Happy 9th thread,Mark!

Wow! Amazing fast read of Wolf Hall Mark! Congrats! I really enjoyed A Man Callled Over and I'll you will too -and I suspect it won't take you long to read.

>74 mdoris: Hi, Mary! It's not to late to pick Wolf Hall back up again. The Masterpiece series starts on the 5th and is 6 episodes.

>75 maggie1944: Yah, for posting from a grocery store parking lot. Ain't I special?

>76 drneutron: Thanks, Jim!

>77 vancouverdeb: If I didn't tackle Wolf Hall in both print & audio, it would have taken me much longer. I have A Man Called Ove on my To-Read list, because Tonto said it was good!

Looking forward to the Masterpiece series!!! Happy Saturday. : )

Happy Saturday. Yes, I am working today and it will be another cold one, BUT, the silver lining is: I am off the next 2 days and I am MEETING Ellen tonight for dinner, beer & chatter. Nice way to wrap the week up, right?

Like I mentioned up above, I am jumping right into Bring Up the Bodies. I also have Epitaph waiting in the wings but I think I will read a chunk of March: Book Two first.

>79 Berly: Happy Weekend, Kimmers! Hooray for Wolf Hall!

Hi Mark, I'm so sorry that it's still cold at your place. I send you some spring warmth over the pond and wishing you a wonderful weekend.

I, too, have the fine opportunity to earn some money today; however, I am so much more fortunate. I only have a three hour shift, the weather is cloudy but warmish, and if I'm really lucky I'll get no batches of groceries to shop, and I can spend the entire three hours being paid to sit and read in a grocery store parking lot. Or if I want I can read in the grocery store's coffee spot, and drink coffee.

I know I shouldn't brag but I just couldn't help it this morning.

I hope your day goes swiftly and without discomfort.

And that ideas of happy new books are dancing in your head.

>43 msf59: Thanks for the suggestion about Alias Grace, Mark. I'll have to look into that one. It does sound like my cuppa. I believe that the only Atwood I own is The Blind Assassin.

Is there a link someplace to Atwood April. Maybe I missed it? Maybe I'll do it. We'll see.

Tired from the Blackhawks game last night. Got home around midnight and was wound up and couldn't get to sleep. They haven't looked that bad in years.

It's cold out but, in the sun, it's not so bad. When I hear the birdies singing, I keep trying to tell myself it isn't that cold. Sometimes it works.

Cold, crisp & sunny. I am just toddling along. And yes, I still have my man-crush on Cromwell.

>81 Ameise1: Thanks for the spring flowers, Barb. It is supposed to warm up next week. Yah!

>82 maggie1944: Morning, Karen. Sounds like you have a pretty good day planned, with a light load. Have a good one and make time for those books.

>83 lindapanzo: Morning, Linda. I did not post the Atwood April thread yet, but I plan on doing it tomorrow morning.
Sorry, the Hawks put on a poor performance.
Have a good weekend.

Hey, compadre. We're back, and all is well. We were greeted by the furry Sherlock, as he and his mom were taking care of our house while we were gone. I'm a little bleary-eyed after staying up to watch Michigan State and Duke win. Fun time of the year.

That was a poor Hawks performance (I saw a lot of it on TV). Uncharacteristically sloppy on their part.

The Graveyard Book is very well done. Different chapters have different illustrators, and I was just a bit disappointed by the illustrations of the one with the ghoulgate and subsequent dire adventures. That was all so vivid in my imagination; probably there's no way any illustrations would live up to that.

I saw on Facebook that they're publishing the recipe for Stone Levitation. Seeing as how I'm unlikely to ever home brew, I'm hoping some entrepreneur starts bringing that one out again. I can't believe Stone stopped making it. I could've kept them rolling in rubles all by myself.

Hope you're having a good one today, and setting up for a relaxing Sunday.

Morning Mark! Glad it is sunny on your preambles today. Have a blast with Ellen tonight!! I am so very jealous. : ) Man crush on Cromwell, huh? I never figured you for a power hungry kinda guy. ; )

Maggie, I love how you said "I, too, have the fine opportunity to earn some money today." What a nice reminder that work is a good thing and that not everyone is lucky enough to get the chance.

Tonto just checking in with Lone Ranger, on a fine summer's day - well, here anyway! I think it might be a shorts of capri kind of a day! :)

Such an ambitious and commodious reading plan as you are totin'! Makes my eyesockets itch.

Be well in all this icyfreezeecold mishegas.

I am heading into the city, so I will see all you good people tomorrow. I will give Ellen a hug from everyone.

Yay, for giving Ellen a hug! I finished reading French Milk and frankly, although I enjoyed it, I do wonder why it was a book, and not a long New Yorker style article. I enjoyed reading of Paris, and French food, but thought the book was really lean on "relationship between daughter and mother" and other "coming of age" sorts of stuffs. She is a great sketch artist, and probably is well suited to Graphic Novel genre, but I think she needs more substance. Next up is Displacement, another travel book by Lucy Knisley, this time about traveling with her grandparents. We shall see how she did with this challenging adventure.

It is not always a fast read and it does bog down at times but her storytelling skills, her muscular, yet, glorious prose, teamed up with a treasure trove of historical drama, add up to a very satisfying read..
Wow! Well said. I'm all excited to tackle her later this year. :)
Have an awesome time with Ellen tonight!

>1 msf59: love that sign! Happy new thread, Mark! How goes Wolf Hall? Nwever mind, I see that you were mightly impressed with it. Personally, I loved that one when I read it, even with the whole pronouns thing.

Earthquakes. I have a personal theory that earthquake will be on the upswing if we continue to allow fracking to occur. Fracking is wrecking all sorts of havoc with the under earth structure and I am pretty sure it even impacts the tectonic plates.... if underwater nuclear testing can have ramifications, so can fracking. The world we live in..... I just shake my head in disgust/resignation.

Happy weekend, Mark!

Just here at my sisters forcing her to listen to Courtney Barnett…..will let you know if we have another convert. :)
Enjoy your meet up with Ellen….that is what you are doing isn't it???

Hi Mark, is it too late to wish you a Happy New Thread 94 posts into it? I'm glad you enjoyed Wolf Hall. But a man-crush on Cromwell, really?! Maybe you should read about him from other sources before you make that kind of declaration, because he isn't perceived as a popular figure according to most accounts other than Hilary Mantel's...

I don't know if anyone answered your question about whether it was intended as a stand-alone or not, but the wikipedia page for Bring Up the Bodies says it's "the second part of a planned trilogy charting the rise and fall of Thomas Cromwell", which explains why the ending of Wolf Hall seems abrupt.

I'm really excited about watching the BBC series, and as I was hoping, it'll be available on iTunes and I've already purchased the series since I don't subscribe to cable anymore and will be discontinuing my tv services altogether very soon since I never watch it anyway and get the shows I want via other channels, so to speak.

I'm all set of Atwood April and will finally get started on the MaddAddam trilogy with Oryx and Crake, which I got on audio recently. Better late than never!

^With Ellen, at Half Acre Brewery. Happy Campers.



^This is at Hopleaf. My catfish hoagie. We are both drinking Zombie Dust, a killer IPA.

Happy Sunday! As you could tell, I had a great visit with Ellen. The time flew and the beers flowed.

Not much on the schedule today: some house chores, food shopping and R & R. Sounds like a plan. I will be cracking Epitaph, so brace yourself for waves of warbling.

>85 jnwelch: Hope you had a good time at the game, Joe. Sorry, you couldn't join us. You would have had a blast. Good news about the GN of the Graveyard Book. I will pick that up.
Yes, we will all miss Stone Levitation. Sad face.

>86 Berly: Thanks, Kimmers! I just like Cromwell's strong moral character and yes, he likes to make money too.

>87 vancouverdeb: Thanks for checking in, Tonto. Hope you are having a nice weekend, Deb.

>88 richardderus: It is supposed to warm back up this week, RD. I am getting tired of bundling up every day.

>90 maggie1944: Morning Karen! As you can see up there, had a terrific time with Ellen. I will have to pick up French Milk and see for myself. I hope you enjoy Displacement, as much as I did.

>91 jolerie: Thanks, Valerie. I hope you are having a relaxing, book-laden weekend.

>92 lkernagh: Happy Sunday, Lori! Yes, I loved Wolf Hall and Bringing Up the Bodies has been very good too. I will be thoroughly ready for the mini-series.

Don't get me started on fracking! LOL.

>93 LovingLit: Glad to see you spreading the Barnett joy. She is deserving, isn't she? Yes, I had a lovely visit with Ellen and we both gushed about visiting NZ.

>94 Smiler69: Great to see you, Ilana and I loved your comments. I am basing my Cromwell man-crush, solely on Mantel's version of this character. I love his moral center, his smarts and his hard scrabble origins. Plus, he is a bit of a badass, right?
I hope you love Oryx and Crake as much as I did. I read the first one but loved the other two, on audio.

OK, Mark. I'm quitting the computer time, now, and picking up Displacement to read for a bit before I go watch "Sunday Morning". No work for me today, but my housemate, her son, and I will be moving some stuff out of the house, and into storage so we have more elbow room for painting. They are making good progress at getting the interior of the house looking fresh and filled with warm light!

Happy Sunday, Mark!

>98 maggie1944: Sounds like a perfect plan, Karen. Enjoy!

>99 scaifea: Morning, Amber. Hugs & Waves!

Wishing you a most happy Sunday, Mark. Oh, how I envy you to have a meet-up with Ellen. I'm glad to hear that you had a blast. Waves and hugs.

Mark, I am busy getting caught up here while I have some internet service. It comes and goes…just like spring in The Ozarks. The daffodils are finally blooming but it is cold out there! I am so looking forward to the adaptation of Wolf Hall. Isn't Mantel wonderful at presenting history in such an interesting way? I can't wait to read the end of the WH trilogy.

Happy Sunday, Mark! Glad you had a good meet-up last night with Ellen. Have a great 2-day "weekend!"

Mark - As always, it sounds like a great meet up. Maybe next time.

Hello Mark. Writing ability is limited because of staples in my back that pull, but I want to thank you for all your kind words. I appreciate you.

>101 Ameise1: Hi, Barb! Never fail to have a good time at a Meet-Up. We are special people after all, right?

>102 Donna828: Great to see you, Donna. I've missed your visits. Sorry, to hear about your wonky internet service. Must be very irritating.

And yes, I am really enjoying the Wolf Hall books.

>103 Storeetllr: Morning Mary! Yep, had a nice time with Ellen and I plan to savor my these days off. Smiles...

>104 BLBera: Hope to see you make it down sometime, Beth. How far of a drive is it?

>105 Whisper1: Just made my morning, Linda. Thanks for making time to stop by. Gentle hugs to my pal.

Happy Sunday, Mark! Glad you had a blast with Ellen. Wish I could've joined you. Hopleaf and Half Acre - most excellent choices!

The Bulls blew out the Knicks, and a good time was had by all. I taped the NCAAs and watched that hard fought ND-KY game when we got home. Kudos to ND for giving them all they could handle.

We're taking it easy on this chilly, rainy day. Reading, and we'll probably watch a Netflix movie later. Hope you're having a good one.

Mark - It's a five to six hour drive. I have a nephew who is relocating, so I'll have even more excuse to visit.

>107 jnwelch: We missed you last night, Joe! I wish I could have spent more time at Half Acre. I love that place.

What a yucky day. Good excuse, to hang with the books.

>108 BLBera: Yeah, that is a bit of a drive, Beth. Maybe, if you come in for a long weekend to visit the nephew.

#94
I'm with you on this one. Don't get a crush on Cromwell yet. History doesn't make out to be as great as he might appear in the books. However, it was a difficult time and what kinds of decisions people made had a big impact on thousands of people. In the long run the Catholic/Protestant division cost England dearly. I read somewhere recently that the English Civil Wars were the single most costly war in all of English history and the root causes of those conflicts can be laid directly at the feet of Henry VIII.

Historically, and evaluation of Henry VII is a mixed bag. It is also clear that people who knew him were afraid to write what they really thought of him. Even his daughters were afraid to say what they thought - even after they were both monarchs in their own right.

#69
Did any zippers show in the costumes? (This question is asked because of the criticism of The White Queen series in which some of the costumes in the first season had zippers that showed.)

Glad to see that you and Ellen had a great meet-up.

I finished listening to Last Policeman by Ben H. Winters and now have added two more books to my every growing wish list. (Last Policeman is the first in a trilogy.) I do think that the book was more than a piece of apocalyptic literature. It was really about how people handle adversity. Have you read book 2? I an thinking that I will need to place an order with Alibris for a used copy of the next two books.

>110 benitastrnad: Happy Sunday, Benita! I just love Cromwell's character in Mantel's books. Thanks for the info on Henry VIII. Fascinating stuff.

We always have a good time at the Meet-Ups, don't we?

I read/listened to all 3 of the Last Policeman books. It is a good trilogy but the first book remains my favorite.

Happy Sunday, Mark. Still a bit chilly and I got caught in the rain/ice pellets this morning but spring looks to be on the way.

Besides sportswatching today, I am eager to see the first Call the Midwife of the season tonight.

^Atwood April is on the air. Come on by and let us know what you will be reading:

https://www.librarything.com/topic/189477

I know there were several of you that voted NO for this but don't be spoilsports, okay?

Cheers, Mark!

^Call the Midwife Season 4 kicks off tonight! Be there or be square.

>115 lindapanzo: Thank you, Linda! I had no idea CTM was starting tonight. We appreciate it.

Yep, it looks like we are going to get some spring weather this week. Hooray!

>118 msf59: Glad I mentioned it then, Mark. It's on WTTW at 7. That department store one is on at 8.

Great picture of you and Ellen! Now the crawfish -well........did I tell you that I am a very conventional eater? A plain eater?

Lucky you to get to meetup with Ellen! Glad you had fun!

Yay for meetups!! So glad you had fun and thanks for putting up the Atwood thread. I have it starred, just haven't decided what I am going to read for it yet. Enjoy your spring weather--we were a balmy 68 today! Loved it. Hugs.

>116 msf59: Atwood April! I get the feeling this has happened before, it's annual right? Don't mind me, I'm not always on the ball with regards to....much. ;)
Maybe I will knock one of hers off my long long list. Any recs? I disliked Oryx and Crake, really liked The Handmaid's Tale and was neither here nor there on The Blind Assassin.

Morning, Mark! I need to get round to the Wolf Hall books...

Happy Monday! The reason, you ask? I am off today and our temps get back up into the high 50s, which should feel good after a lengthy stretch of chilly days.

I am about 70-plus pages into Epitaph and I am swaddled in MDR's fine storytelling craft, like a warm, cozy blanket. I did not realize this one qualified as a "chunkster", at nearly 600 pages. Fortunately, the pages turn at a rapid pace.

>119 lindapanzo: I really enjoyed the CTM premiere. The show never fails to entertain, Linda.

>120 vancouverdeb: So, my simple, elderly housewife, likes her meals plain? Hmmmmmm...I thought I taught Tonto better.

>121 Copperskye: Our day, will come, Joanne. I am overdue on a visit to Colorado.

Morning, Mark! Lucky you and lucky Ellen!! Looking forward to Atwood april, although I still haven't decided what i'm going to read - I might just check the library and see what is sitting on the shelf calling to me.

>123 LovingLit: Megan her newest short story collection Stone Mattress is fabulous. Just saying...

>122 Berly: Hi, Kimmers! You have a Meet-up planned for April don't you?

>123 LovingLit: Yes, we've been doing an Atwood April for a few years now. We actually did a vote this year, just to see if we should run it again and most people were up for it. You might like Alias Grace.

>124 scaifea: Morning, Amber! I really think you would like the Wolf Hall books. I know you are a fan of historical stories and this is one of the best.

Hi, Mark. Lucky you to have Monday free to read! Yay.

I unfortunately have a brutal day with two visits to the kids home, a doctor appointment, and an Instacart "evening" shift. Whew!

So, I need some advice. My foster daughter's 20 something son (named Morgan, after me, who saved said foster daughter from a short and brutal life on the streets) is having a birthday. I asked him what would he like and he said "a book, used preferably". As you can see, my good influence did not end with his Mom. He is in community college struggling with learning how to learn, which he evidently did not get in high school, and he loves Mixed Martial Arts. I think he is studying business. Any good ideas for a good book?

Anyone who reads your thread and has a good idea or two is invited to drop onto my thread and suggest them. I'll probably to to Half Price Books tomorrow to sell a few books and look for something for him.

I hope you completely and totally enjoy your day off!

Good morning, Mark! Two days off in a row - excellent! Should be a good one today, too.

>128 maggie1944: Karen, you might consider Thrown, by Kerry Howley, for your foster-daughter's son: http://www.sarabandebooks.org/new-forthcoming/thrown-kerry-howley Son Jesse likes MMA, too, and we got it for him. He liked it.

I started Night Film and Endangered, the new Joe Pickett novel, and so far so good with both. Also, March: Book Two, which has me caught up in it already.

>128 maggie1944: Morning Karen! Sorry, you have such a busy day. I can't help you with the Mixed Martial Arts rec. I am clueless there. If he is studying business, how about The Big Short, or any of Michael Lewis's books. He is a terrific NNF writer.

Or you can always go with The Martian. A perfect default title! LOL.

>129 jnwelch: Morning, Joe! I ended up really liking Night Film. It is very atmospheric and inventive. Her writing craft may not be at the highest level but her storytelling chops are good.
The 2nd March volume is excellent you will love it. I am enjoying Epitaph and my current GN, Mystery Society, that Laura recommended.

>130 msf59: Oh, Fiona Staples, the Saga illustrator, did Mystery Society! I'll have to check that one out.

I loved the CTM episode last night. I think this is simply the best series on TV. Such wonderful characters. The scene with the new nurse and the cookie was so funny I nearly split my tea laughing.

Somehow I think the announcement that next season will be the last for Downtown Abbey went right past this group. The producer and writers said that they had taken the characters about as far as they could go so it was time to end the show. That announcement was made last week.

I am facing the broadcast of Wolf Hall with trepidation. I am afraid that I will like the characters and when they get bumped off I will just hate it. Philippa Gregory in her series on the War of the Roses suggests that Henry VII was a little monster even as a child. He was self absorbed, spoiled, and convinced that he was smarter and better than everybody around him. From what I saw of the extensive preview that PBS aired last night after Selfridge's Mantel has followed that same line of thinking about him. That makes him a terror and a leader on the same plain as Stalin and Putin.

>130 msf59:, >131 jnwelch: Not one of my three (3!) libraries, including the statewide library alliance system, has Mystery Society. *sad face* I'm going to have to go check the neighborhood used book store to see if they have it.

Glad your 2-day weekend is going well and that you are enjoying Epitaph!

Okay, got a few "spring" cleaning things done. (We are hosting Easter this year. Doesn't it seem like we host every major holiday? Well, that is because we do! Sighs...groans) Got my SUV washed and made a speedy trip to the library. I hope to spend some quality time with MDR this afternoon.

>131 jnwelch: Mystery Society has been fun and, like you, I adore Staples.

>132 benitastrnad: I saw that DA was ending next season but did not comment on it. It seems interest in that show has been flagging, so I let it go.

I also loved last night's CTM. Never watched Selfridge.

>133 Storeetllr: Bummer, Mary. I am very lucky to have a library system that can pretty much find everything. Good luck. Yes, I am loving Epitaph.

Extra happy Monday to you my friend. Enjoy your day off! :)

Hi Mark - no, I'm not done with Wolf Hall yet. I hardly did any reading this weekend - Saturday was spent with friends. Two breweries - excellent beer. Catch-23 from Gigantic Brewing and at Breakside Brewery they knew it was my birthday and had my favorite Bergamot Special Bitter on tap. I got a new laptop for my birthday so I've been spending a lot of time getting files moved and everything set up. I think I'm finally at the point were almost everything I need daily is there.

As for Wolf Hall - I am enjoying getting this whole thing from Cromwell's viewpoint. I'm looking forward to the TV show. I'm just thrilled that Damien Lewis is playing Henry. I watched The Tudors and was annoyed the whole time with the casting choice for Henry in that one.

>72 lunacat: - Oh thanks for that link.

I do plan to read Bring Up the Bodies. I've heard it's better than Wolf Hall so I'm looking forward to your thoughts. I'm probably going to go with the audio for that one because - Simon Vance.

So glad you and Ellen got a chance to meet up - always fun times.

>135 jolerie: It has been a good day so far, Valerie and Bree is coming over for dinner. I am making tacos. I like to keep it easy. LOL.

>136 SuziQoregon: Sounds like you had a terrific birthday weekend, Juli. Hitting 2 breweries sounds ideal to me. And yah, to a new laptop.
Glad you are continuing with Wolf Hall. The TV series should be great. I plan on finishing Bring Up the Bodies this week.
I am loving Epitaph.

Ahem.

By all accounts Henry was a very handsome youth with all of the charm of his grandfather Edward IV and the looks of his mother Elizabeth of York. He also did not have the parsimonious habits of his father Henry VII. Contemporaries always comment on his larger-than-life personality. His daughter Elizabeth I was much like him in personality. I never saw an episode of the Tudors but at the time heard that the casting of a young handsome athletic man raised eyebrows. The young handsome athlete might have been closer to the truth as Henry was a champion jouster in his young days. That would be the equivalent of being a football player of today. Of course, his brother Arthur was also known as a handsome man, but he had a much quieter personality.

>127 msf59: >138 Crazymamie: There I go again, Mamie! LOL. I think you slipped in between posts. I am glad you'll be joining us on AA. Always something to pick from her. I am looking forward to Stone Mattress.

>139 benitastrnad: Mantel does describe Henry, as more stout-bodied, especially as he grew older and started putting on weight. Damian Lewis is a tall, slender actor, so it will be interesting how they pad him in the role.

"Of all the witless, obtuse questions addressed to John Henry Holliday in his short, unlucky life, the one he currently despised most was a simple pleasantry: How are you?

John Henry Holliday had recently turned twenty-nine. On a good day, he looked fifteen years older. On a bad one, he felt about three weeks shy of a hundred."

^Epitaph: A Novel of the O.K. Corral

>141 msf59: *sigh* I've got the biggest crush on John Henry.

>141 msf59: Oooh, looking forward to reading that one.

>142 Storeetllr: Yep, Mary, I have a man-crush on him, along with Cromwell. LOL.

>143 lindapanzo: It is sooooooooooooooooo good, Linda. She makes it so effortless too, which is awe-inspiring.

LOL! Mark, you and your man crushes! Well, I've got a woman crush on the Duchess of Cambridge. She is only 33, but I do love my royals! ;) Love The epitaph for John Henry Holliday - sometimes I feel On a bad one, he felt about three weeks shy of a hundred."

>145 vancouverdeb: Man-crushes do not hit me very often, but when they do, they hit hard! LOL! Good luck with your woman crush, Tonto!

I am sad to hear about MDR's pertussis/whooping cough. My boss had it about ten years ago and was pretty miserable for about a month. Yikes! for all the people exposed during her book tour.

...Alias Grace might be for me. And loving the crush talk too. All very familiar :)

>118 msf59: Since I am in Michigan, I hope our DVR automatically recorded "Call the Midwife". I LOVE that show!

Hi Mark! It was, as you have said several times here, great to see you on Saturday. I have had a good meeting so far although I got the news that we had a student suicide over the spring break (last week). My associate director has stated in no uncertain terms that I am not allowed to leave town. Ever. Again.

I'm enjoying Being Mortal and I started The Rosie Project today (one of the books I bought while in Chicago). I plan to do some serious Erdrich reading in April but I will try to shoehorn in an Atwood, as well.

Thanks for hanging out with me in Chicago Saturday evening!

Hiya Mark. I am dutifully recording Wolf Hall (okay I am excited!). Yes, we are having a Portland meetup (without you this year, but you are booked for next!) at Powell's at the end of April. : )

Morning, Mark! I'm early today. Happy Tuesday That Is The End of March!

Morning, Mark! Looks like March will be going out like a lamb today, eh? Sunny and 60's? For the winter we've had, I'll take it, I guess. Ha!

Okay, back to work. Mid-50s, so it should be pleasant enough. Looking forward to jumping back into Bring Up the Bodies, after a 2 day hiatus and of course continuing Epitaph.

>147 streamsong: Mi, Janet! Yes, MDR struggled with pertussis/whooping cough for awhile before she was even diagnosed. I hope she is doing much better.

>148 LovingLit: Do you have a copy on shelf? Hmmmmmmmm?

>149 EBT1002: Great to see you, Ellen. Had a terrific visit with you, my friend. Looks like you have some good books going. Enjoy. I also hope that CTM recorded.

Sorry to hear about the suicide. Awful.

>150 Berly: Hi, Kimmers. I better check my DVR and make sure Wolf Hall is being recorded. I have all the Masterpiece programs in there, so it should pick it up.

>151 Crazymamie: Morning, Mamie! Aren't you the early bird? And yah, for April.

>152 scaifea: Morning, Amber! It looks like we have some nice days coming this week. We NEED it.

Morning, Mark! March Book Two has really got me. I'm enjoying the new Joe Pickett novel, too. I also plan to get further into Night Film.

Nice Blackhawks win last night. Can't wait until they get Kane back.

Hope it's a good one for you today. Feels much better not to bundle up like the Michelin Man.

Hi Mark!
Don't pass out... yes, it's really me.
I envy your ability to read so many books. Maybe it's the beer??? I'm still trying to find one I really like.

I see there have been some great reads for you this year. Some I have read and enjoyed myself (Hilary Mantel's books, The Frozen Thames) and some I am still looking forward to (Euphoria, The Narrow Road to the Deep North). I bombed out on Richard Ford this month. I bought Rock Springs but could not whip up the enthusiasm to actually read it yet. I do, however, look forward to Louise Erdrich for April... one of my fav authors. Would love to drop in to her Minneapolis bookstore someday :-)

Wishing you a warm day.

>155 jnwelch: Howdy, Joe! Looks like you got some good reading there. Enjoy. Still cloudy and cool. Come on, sunshine!

>156 -Cee-: Well, this just made my day! Great to see you, Claudia. I've missed you. Thanks for chiming in on the books. I am looking forward to reading Erdrich, since I've neglected her for so long.
Make sure you stop by the AAC thread.

Hi Mark, happy Tuesday!! Just got a note from the library that my copy of Epitaph is in. I won't manage to get there til the weekend, perhaps. I've got a week. It's great timing since I'm off Sat--Wed.

Hi, Linda! I know you loved Doc and so far Epitaph is just as good. She is a helluva storyteller.
Have a good day.

Hi Mark, I wish you a lovely day. waves & hugs

Just stopping by to wish you a good first day back to work and to say thank you so very much for getting me back into GNs. Funny, I read a bunch a year or so ago, then none again until a week or so ago. Now I'm up to my elbows in them.

Getting over to the library today to pick up Psychiatric Tales which I think perhaps you mentioned (? or was it Joe?) and continuing reading The Graveyard Book Graphic Novel Vols. 1 and 2, and Are You My Mother? by Bechdel, which I'm really looking forward to after finishing Fun House the other day, which I liked as much as Dykes. Love that woman's humor! So wry and self-deprecating.

Enjoy the pretty spring weather! As I am enjoying ours here on the Front Range (I love saying that ~ on the Front Range ~ it sounds so cool for some reason). It was, in fact, so hot this morning in the sun I couldn't have my coffee out on the back patio because it was burning me! We are supposed to be in for a cold snap and maybe even snow come Thursday, and you know it'll be moving out in your direction a couple of days later. :( Hope it misses you.

^ This is going to be the cover for the new Harper Lee novel. It will be released on July 14th. I haven't hear much chatter about it on LT. Honestly, I am going to wait and see what the early response is, before I get all giddy and goofy. What does everyone else think?

>160 Ameise1: Thanks, Barb! Waves & Hugs back at you.

>161 Storeetllr: Hi, Mary! How is everything on the Front Range? Smiles...I am so glad you are enjoying your GNs. They have become a big part of my reading life and I love dipping in and out of them, in between my other books. And they are as popular as ever, so there is never a shortage of things to try. B.A.G.!

It is going to be nice here for the next couple of days. It cools off on Friday but it does get a bit better over the weekend.

>162 msf59: I am taking a wait and see approach too Mark. I went ahead and put myself on the library hold list a few weeks ago because there were already 43 people ahead of me. I should have enough time to read reviews and make a decision before I reach the front of the line.

>162 msf59: - I'll also wait and see. But I do love the cover!

>164 lauralkeet: >165 katiekrug: Of course, I am a huge fan of To Kill a Mockingbird but I am somewhat skeptical about this one. There must have been a reason that Harper never released it previously.

I think the cover is perfectly retro.

>162 msf59: I don't know Mark. Lee was very protected by her sister and I don't know what influence her current attorney has on her or was she over protected by her sister?

I'll wait and see.

I will not be reading book 4 of the Millennium Trilogy. I know Larsson had several books planned but I think I would like to keep it to the 3 I read.

I'm looking forward to the new Harper Lee, Mark. We'll probably pre-order it.

>167 luvamystery65: - I just heard about that fourth Millennium novel, Ro. It seems a little ambiguous as to what Larsson's plans were - his longtime partner says he didn't really have any plans but hib publisher insists he had plans for at least seven novels... Like you, I plan to just leave it at the three.

Well, it looks like a perfect way to usher in April: 70 degrees today! Yah! I am leaving the shorts at home for awhile yet, but we are getting close, folks.

>167 luvamystery65: Hi, Ro! I hope I am wrong about Harper's book and it turns out to be a gem. I am just doubtful. I agree completely with you about the Larsson book though, plus that series was already getting a bit tired.

>168 lindapanzo: I hope it's a good one, Linda!

>169 katiekrug: I am with you Katie!

Welcome April , indeed, Mark! :) I am loving A Blue Spool of Thread by Amy Tyler Not finished it yet, but loving it! I'm embarrassed to say that I only read part of the 1 st book in the Larrson series and then I saw the 3 movies at the cinema, though we saw the original movies made in Sweden, so we read sub- titles.

Morning Deb! Let the great warm-up begin. Glad you are enjoying the Tyler. I hope to get to that one in the coming weeks. I am glad to see she is still churning out quality work.

Morning, Mark! I've already pre-ordered the Harper Lee book, so yeah, I'm excited. Ha!

Morning, Mark! It sure was exciting news that there would be a new Harper Lee book, a sequel to To Kill a Mockingbird. I'm really looking forward to hearing more from Scout. How good is the book? I haven't heard anything on that yet. Fingers crossed.

Happy April. Finally a nice day!!

I started reading Alias Grace last night. I'm not too far into it but I'm liking it so far.

I don't think I've ever read any Anne Tyler. Which ones have you liked?

Well, I have shed the jacket and have applied the sunscreen. B.A.G.

>173 scaifea: I will definitely be watching for your thoughts on the new Harper Lee.

>174 jnwelch: I have not heard or seen any reviews on the new Harper Lee, Joe. I just hope it is something worthy.

>175 lindapanzo: Happy April, Linda. I am so glad you are enjoying Alias Grace. I read it for the last AA.
My favorite Tyler is The Accidental Tourist. I am sure a few other LTers could chime in about other favorites.

>176 msf59: Thanks Mark. For the AAC, I might substitute Anne Tyler for Ursula LeGuin.

I walked into the office from my car WITHOUT A JACKET today. Amazing.

I'll chime in about Anne Tyler - I haven't read a ton of hers, but Dinner at the Homesick Restaurant is excellent, as is The Accidental Tourist.

>178 katiekrug: Thanks. I've heard a few people talking about the new Tyler book but I'm thinking of an older one or two, for starters.

Mark, I certainly have to thank you for helping me to expand my reading horizons. A Margaret Atwood and a Louise Erdrich on the agenda for this month.

>153 msf59: Do you have a copy on shelf? Hmmmmmmmm?
Well, no. I don't. Hmmmmmmmmph.

For my 2c...I loved The Accidental Tourist when I read it too :) The movie version wasn't so bad either. I read Revolutionary Road right before or after it, and the movie version of that was a disappointment.

#169
There was a real feud over the rights to Larsson's books. He had no will so his girl friend, partner, common law-wife, had not rights. He planned on a series of 10 books modeled after the Martin Beck series. He had outlines for a couple of books, but his partner says they were not very detailed. My guess is that the family wants more money. I will wait and see what the reviews say.

#162
I have no plans to read this book. Didn't like the first one. Well, didn't dislike it either, but in general think it is overrated.

What a perfect day! Sunshine, low 70s and great books, as my backdrop. Life is good!

>177 lindapanzo: >179 lindapanzo: I shed my jacket about 11am and never looked back, Linda! It was a beauty.

"thank you for helping me to expand my reading horizons." You are welcome but I give you more credit for actually reading more deeply and out of your comfort zone. Good job. I know you adore your mysteries and sports books but there is plenty of room for sampling other things.

>178 katiekrug: I NEED to read Dinner at the Homesick Restaurant . I have no idea why I've dragged my feet on reading this one. Bad Mark.

>180 LovingLit: Sorry, you don't have Alias Grace at hand, Megan. You could have jumped in. I LOVED The Accidental Tourist. Book & film.

>181 benitastrnad: I really enjoyed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, despite it's flaws and I still think Lis Salander is a terrific creation. The other 2 books were good, to fair. I won't be tuning into a new one.

Your weather goes from one extreme to another, it sounds like it is close to summer weather. Here we end up with months and months of spring.

>162 msf59: Our RL book group is going to read both Go Set a Watchman and (reread) To Kill a Mockingbird -- I think we have it set for our early September meeting to give us time to get the new one and all. I love TKaM so much that I admit to a bit of worry that this will be disappointing.

You're enjoying Epitaph, I see. I'm in the queue at the library for when it arrives. :-)

Time for Atwood April, right?

^This documentary is currently running on HBO and is based on the book Going Clear, which has been on my To-Read list forever. Scientology has always creeped me out and this movie explains why. I have less than 30 minutes left but can report that it is excellent and is guaranteed to give you the willies. Of course, Travolta and Cruise make several appearances. Catch it if you can.

It will still be mild today but also cloudy and damp. I will be wrapping up Bring Up the Bodies, (Anne has recently been arrested). I am so glad I decided to read these back to back. Mantel really delivered. I am approaching the halfway point in Epitaph. MDR has me in her grip.

>184 Familyhistorian: Hi, Meg. This time of year, our weather is erratic, but the nice days will begin to outweigh the bad.

>185 EBT1002: Your RL group read(s) sound great, Ellen. What a terrific idea. And yes, it is time for AA. I will start mine as soon as I leave the OK Corral. Grins...

Ellen and I are in the same face-to-face group which will be reading Go Set a Watchman and re-reading To Kill a Mockingbird. I am looking forward to it.

Right now, I am still shoehorning The Secret Life of Wonder Woman into my over busy life. Progress, progress is being made, and I'm not looking for perfection.

Morning, Mark! Yesterday was glorious, no? Rainy here today, though. Gah.
I didn't realize that the HBO documentary was based on a book - I'll have to track it down, because it sounds really interesting...

>188 maggie1944: Those our great choices for your Book Club, Karen. Should be a great discussion. Is Wonder Woman getting any better for you?

>189 scaifea: The author is featured in the documentary extensively, since he is such an authority on the subject. I would like to get to the book someday too.

Yes, the Wonder Woman book is a bit more interesting. That guy's life was really unusual. I think in the days before 24 hour news cycles, and the interwebs, people could "get away" with lots of variety in life style. There was lots of "don't talk about it" and so, we have so many interesting and different ways of living.

As I do like my historical narratives I guess this book fits that category.

Have a great Thursday! I have an especially long shift today: 10 am to 4 pm, plus a traffic jam on the way home. I hope the dogs are prepared for a long day all by themselves.

I am glad Wonder Woman is working better for you. I loved it beginning to end. It is a terrific story.

Good luck today on that long shift. We have rain here too.

I read a little bit about the Scientology documentary and how goofy the "secrets" are when they reach the top echelon.

I'm a good ways into Night Film, and enjoying it more than I expected. We're getting into the witchcraft aspect right now. Not sure where she's going with the story, and but it's involving.

March Book Two is just a knockout. Unbelievable what they had to go through just to get basic rights and fairer treatment.

Mark I'm impressed that you will have read both Mantel novels before the series starts on Sunday. You go!!!

>193 jnwelch: Hi Joe! Glad you are enjoying Night Film. As you know, I was a fan too!
And yes, March Book 2 is a knockout. Looking forward to the next one.

>194 lauralkeet: Thanks, Laura. I surprised myself too. LOL. I rarely read back to back authors but this time is was a Must.
Now I have to wait with everyone else.

>195 msf59: Next one? I didn't know. Great!

I read Going Clear last year and it definitely was one of my top nonfiction reads. I remember reading that it faced huge lawsuits as the Scientologists tried to block its publication. As they have unlimited pockets for legal fees and quite a few members who are lawyers, I believe they were successful in blocking it in Great Britain.

Hi Mark, I hope the weather at your place will turn to the bright side.

Hi Friend! :D

>186 msf59: I am morbidly fascinated with the cult of Scientology. I have wanted to read one of L Ron Hubbards sci fi books too....just to reinforce how crazy the whole thing seems.

-Andy Evansen (lovely watercolor)

"Heads will roll!"

^They sure do. I finished Bring Up the Bodies. I am so glad I read these back to back and in a flash, I am caught up. Just in time for Sunday! Happy Camper!

So, of course, I jump right into the audio of the Plague of Doves, for this month's AAC. Not very far in, but she did grab me right away.

>196 jnwelch: Yes, Joe the Wolf Hall books will be a trilogy. Mantel is going to see this play out to the bitter end.

>197 streamsong: Thanks for chiming in, Janet. I will have to still get to the book. I am sure the documentary does not cover everything. Those Scientologists sure love their lawsuits, don't they? The time they take on the IRS, is jaw-dropping.
There was an article in the paper today about them going after everyone that was involved in the film.

>198 Ameise1: Hi, Barb! The weather is getting better. Thanks!

>199 jolerie: Waves & Hugs to Valerie!

>200 LovingLit: I am also fascinated with Scientology, Megan but they also creep me out. Yikes!

I am also curious about Scientology in a how do they do it kind of way. Looks like you got me with a BB for Going Clear.

Going Clear was nominated for a National Book Award. It is one that I would like to read at some point.

The weather has gotten much more springlike down here. Tomorrow is Honor's Day at UA and it is quite the ceramony. They have a tradition that they call Tapping on the Mound. Those who are selected for membership in the Honor Societies get "tapped" for membership on the mound of rubble left from Franklin Hall which was destroyed in April 1865 when the Yankees burned the place to the ground. The mound is considered sacred and all the good ole' boys and a few good ole' girls get inducted on that memorial. It's enough to make a good Federalist cry. Oh well! If people want to dwell in the past I guess I should let them.

I handed in one assignment today. Now I get to start on the one for the other class. I am still reading through Rebecca but most likely won't make it to another one of the BAC authors this month. I did go get Love Medicine from the library a couple of days ago, so perhaps will get to one Erdrich book this month. It was either her or Atwood and I choose her.

Just dropping in for a drive by wave :)

Oh and #182...yes...

Your thread keeps reminding me that I still need to read Wolf Hall etc. I have had them for years - and I have a normally very critical friend who raves about them and keeps nagging me. Maybe not this month though ;)

Morning, Mark! Happy Friday!

Happy Friday! Hope the week is going well for everyone. I am looking forward into delving deeper into The Plague of Doves and of course jumping back on the stage, of Epitaph.

I asked this question to a pal yesterday: Has there been any other great books about the old west, written by women or does MDR own the roost?

>203 Familyhistorian: Hi, Meg! I am going to read the book at some point too. Try to see the documentary.

>204 benitastrnad: So, you aren't participating in Tapping on the Mound? Party pooper! Glad you'll be joining us on the Erdrich.

>205 BekkaJo: Hi, Bekka! I highly suggest you fit Wolf Hall & Bring Up the Bodies into your reading plans.

Morning, Mark! It's Friday! Friday!!

>207 msf59: I'd say Montana author Dorothy M Johnson would be right up there. She wrote the short stories that the movies The Hanging Tree, The Man Who Shot Liberty Valence and A Man Called Horse were based on as well as several of the film scripts.

Howdy doo, Mark! Stopping in to let you know I'm still hanging around just, lately, a little on the quiet side.
I have Round House beside me and hope to get to it sometime this month. That stack is increasing as I haven't read all my planned March reads. Oh! the trials and tribulations us readers face!
Also, put aside The year of the Flood for Atwood April. Is that still going on and is there a thread for it?
Have a greeeeeaaaat Friday!

ETA: Regarding your question......I read Frog Music by Emma Donoghue last year. It takes place in San Francisco with desert desperado's in the late 19th - early 20th century. Although I wouldn't consider it a "great" book it is very good.

Actually, I meant March Book Three (no touchstone yet) up there - I didn't know Congressman Lewis was coming out with a third one.

Happy Friday, Mark! We've got a half day here, so this shouldn't be too bad. Finished the second Graveyard Book GN and I'm nearing the end of March Book Two, so Mystery Society is up next. Night Film continues to twist and turn. I've got Wild Dogs teed up on the Kindle, so that should be good.

Hope everything goes well today for you.

Happy Friday, Mark! You're doing some good reading over here. I read A Plague of Doves not too long ago and really liked it. Then last year I read The Round House and loved it. I'm not sure what I'll read this month for the AAC challenge but I know she has a bunch of good ones left, and I'm glad for the nudge to pick up another one.

>206 scaifea: >208 Crazymamie: Waves & Hugs to Amber & Mamie!

>209 streamsong: Thanks for chiming in with Dorothy M Johnson. I have not read her but I am familiar with those books and films. I did not realize they were written by a woman. Cool.

>210 Carmenere: There's my pal! Good to see you Lynda. I will be reading The Round House later in the month.
I've had Frog Music on my To-Read list since it came out.
And yes, there is an Atwood thread and I would like you to participate. Grins...

>212 rosalita: Good to see you, Julia. I am enjoying Plague of Doves. It is very sad that I have not read more than one of her books. But that is about to change.

>214 jnwelch: Oops! Sorry I missed you up there, Joe. This is what happens, when I am scurrying.
Actually, I am not positive about the 3rd March book but I thought I had read that somewhere.
Glad you were able to snag Mystery Society.

>213 msf59: Psst - Rosalita=Julia.

*snort!*

>214 jnwelch: Hopefully all fixed...

>215 katiekrug: Hey, no laughing at the simple-minded!

Too late!

Hi Mark, just dropping by to wish you a Happy Friday. Congrats on finishing the two Mantel books in time to watch the Wolf Hall series. I'm really looking forward to it as well.

I thought Going Clear was excellent, and I saw Lawrence Wright speak and I was very good.

And yay for Epitaph being good. It's next on my list.

Happy Friday! Here's a bit more on the soon-to-be 4th Salander novel that I read at BookReporter.com:

"Fourth(!) Stieg Larsson Book: THE GIRL IN THE SPIDER'S WEB, the fourth book in his series, is due to release on September 1st. Yes, you remember correctly, Stieg passed away in 2004, and the third book was all he had written. David Lagercrantz, known as a crime journalist, has taken over the writing."

I'm on the fence about this. On the one hand, I loved the first three, mostly due to Lisbeth Salander's character, and so I would love to read her further adventures, but continuing a series after the original author dies seldom turns out well.

There's been a lot of talk about Going Clear, both book and documentary, beyond what I've seen on your thread, Mark. Having been involved in Scientology when I was in my early 20s (my ex husband was a member and talked me into going, which I did for awhile but found the whole thing a stupid waste of time so managed to get out okay, probably because I was ~ and still am ~ pretty boring), I haven't particularly wanted to read anything about it so as not to stir up those memories, but I may have to see the documentary.

Stopping by with Happy Easter weekend wishes for you and your family, Mark! Here is hoping that 'shorts weather' is on the way!

How are the elbows and shoulders after two Mantel books in a row? Happy Friday, Mark.

^Look what I got in the mail today! No, not the beer or the postal truck. The Book Lover's Calendar! A gift from a wonderful LT pal.

Thank you Mary!! Hugs!!

Yes, I too am interested in Scientology! I look forward to your comments. According to the Supermarket Tabloids, Tom Cruise and John Travolta have been carrying on a gay affair for years, though I did not actually read the article or purchase the magazine . Should have so I could have something more concrete to contribute, because everything those tabloids say ,you know it has to be true!

If you can't read The Bees , well, I'll put it straight out of my mind. Plus, unlike many of the books at my library, The Bees book are plentiful at my library and gathering dust, so you are not the only one, Mark!

>217 katiekrug: Meanie!!

>218 Smiler69: Thanks, Ilana. I am glad I powered through the Mantel books, which worked amazingly well on audio. Looking forward to Sunday night.

>219 banjo123: "I saw Lawrence Wright speak and I was very good." I am proud of you, Rhonda. Do you sometimes act bad, at these events?

So you read and loved the book, right? If so, then you have to see the doc. And speaking of Doc, you are in for a treat with Epitaph.

>220 Storeetllr: Wow, Mary! All kinds of startling news! I will have to visit your lovely state, so we can share a beer or two and you can tell me about your Scientology days. Yikes! Glad you got out early. Is this why you have an ex-husband? I hope you can see the doc.

Thanks for clarifying that about the new Larsson book. Knowing it is written by someone else, definitely puts the damper on it for me.

And thanks for my Book Calendar. I LOVE it!!

>225 msf59: I think it was a relief to Mrs. Banjo that I behaved at that lecture. You can dress me up, but you still can't take me anywhere. ( :) I am full of typos today.)

Soooooo behind. Ack! What a great gift. Have you read the pages from January through to March yet?

>221 lkernagh: Thanks, Lori! Happy Easter. Yes, shorts weather is coming. Once I put 'em on, I like to leave 'em on.

>222 BLBera: The elbows and shoulders are just fine, Beth. It was a good workout. LOL.

>224 vancouverdeb: Tom Cruise and John Travolta are having a gay affair? Wow! You are full of surprises, Tonto!

I know many other people loved The Bees, Deb, so maybe it was just me. You could still give it a try and see.

>227 banjo123: That was a good typo, Rhonda, I had to respond. LOL.

>228 cameling: Hi, Caro! I have not had a chance to look at the book calendar at all. Hopefully, over the weekend.

Hi Mark, Happy Easter!!

I'm now off for the next 5 days. Looking forward to it. Hawks game on Easter Sunday night. Erik Larson talk on Wed.

Oooo! I read Inside Scientology a couple years ago, and remember my main comment on it was it read like a true crime novel. Personally, I doubt John and Tom have had an affair but Going Clear sounds good to me, especially if Scientology spent money trying to sue it to death.

Hi Mark, I wish you Happy Easter.

Happy Saturday! I am working but it looks like it will be a nice day. Both current reads are humming along. It took 400 pages but we finally hit the legendary gunfight in Epitaph. There is still 180 pages to go and I am loving every moment of it. I am really enjoying the Plague of Doves too.

>230 lindapanzo: 5 days off? Sweet! Sunday night will be an action-packed TV night. The Cubs opener, the Hawks, CTM, Wolf Hall and Mad Men. Whew!

I am sure you will have a great time at the Larson talk. Can't wait to hear your thoughts.

>231 cammykitty: Hi, Katie! Scientology is endlessly fascinating, isn't it? Also sinister and very creepy.

>232 Ameise1: Thanks for the Easter eggs, Barb! Are there books inside them?

Only 233 messages behind! Where did the time go? At least I caught this thread before you start the next one, Mark.

Have a wonderful Easter!

I have Issues with Scientology, a good friend of mine in high school disappeared into their cult and never came back. I read The Barefaced Messiah some years back, and thought it was brilliant. Must check out Going Clear.

Having unpacked 90% of my books and filled 100% of my shelves (where did I fit them all in the old house??) I'm actually eyeing off the Girl Who... series and thinking about passing them on to charity. I enjoyed them at the time, but am dubious about reread value.

Hi Mark! Sorry about being so absent this year, but you now, house move kinda takes over your life. Mostly settled in now, hope to catch up more regularly now!

Morning, Mark! Happy Saturday!

>234 alcottacre: Happy Easter, Stasia! Good to see you.

>235 wookiebender: Wow! This just made my morning. Great to see you, Tania. I had no idea you were moving. It sounds like it has kept you busy. I hope you are finding a little time to read, here and there.

>236 scaifea: Morning, Amber. Lots of sun but a chilly breeze. I hope it warms up.

Hiya, Mark! Finally caught up here, phew! Wish you weren't quite so popular - just kidding!

You're making it awfully tempting to try reading both Wolf Hall and Bring Up The Bodies before Masterpiece tomorrow night. I'm going to a friends house this afternoon for a short read-a-thon. Do you think I should try?

I hope you're feeling better, and that these temps keep climbing - I'd like to not have to get all layered up every time I leave the house!

Happy Easter to you, Sue, and the kids (both of two- and four-legged variety)!

p.s. Maybe I missed it, but what did you think of Mystery Society? And did you see that Fiona Staples is illustrating the new Archie comics? I'm psyched!

>238 LauraBrook: Love that info on Fiona Staples, Laura! Archie! - that should be really something.

Happy Saturday, and Happy Easter Weekend, Mark!

Night Film was pretty darn good; I sure couldn't put it down. I was looking for a little more at the end, although what, I couldn't tell you.

Round House is up next; I'm looking forward to it.

We had nice wins for the Bulls and Blackhawks last night. Thank goodness for Gasol and Toews!

I hope you have a wonderful weekend! And a day off on Monday, maybe? Yay for springtime.

Happy Easter, Mark (if you celebrate). Hope you have a lovely day off, one way or the other, and the weather is perfect!

Okay, I'm 4 CDs into Wolf Hall and very much hooked. Why is it I like it now but hated it when I tried listening to (as well as reading the hardcover of) it a year or two ago? (Rhetorical question; I'm sure there's no real answer.) One way or another, I must read the book before I watch the production or I will never be able to read it. (I can see the film adaptation AFTER I read a book, but it doesn't seem to work well for me the other way around.)

Just chillin' at the homestead tonight. Having a couple brews. I might read a GN, maybe watch a movie.

>238 LauraBrook: Happy Easter, Laura! How did you do on your readathon? It would be nice if you plowed through both Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies, but it would be highly doubtful. LOL.
I enjoyed Mystery Society. Fun, somewhat light story and solid artwork. There are more in the series, right? The Staples & Archie connection is definitely interesting.

>239 jnwelch: I am so glad you gave Night Film a try, Joe. If it wasn't for Becca's prodding you may not have bothered, but I am glad you did. I hope The Round House speaks to you too! Fingers crossed.
It looks like both of our teams are definitely getting revved up. Hooray!

>240 maggie1944: Thanks, Karen! I wish I was off Monday, but it will be Tuesday this week. Hope you are having a nice weekend.

>241 Storeetllr: Happy Saturday, Mary! I am not very religious but we do celebrate Easter and we are hosting a family get-together tomorrow. I am getting mentally prepared. LOL.
I am so glad you gave Wolf Hall a second try. She pulled me into the story pretty quickly and I think audio is perfect way to experience it. It was nice to read along with the print book too. Much of her prose is amazing.

"(I can see the film adaptation AFTER I read a book, but it doesn't seem to work well for me the other way around.)" I completely agree. That is why I really want to knock the books out first.

We used to have an office a floor above the Scientology peeps here in Auckland, so I shared many a lift ride with the recruiters and the young people they snared off the street with their IQ questionnaires. I can't remember much of what they said but just that those kids all looked a certain type of vulnerable. I did get stuck in the lift with a recruiter once, that was awkward. Going Clear goes on Mt tbr.

I need to pick up Bring up the Bodies.

I just ordered Going Clear as it was 67% off on the Chapters/Indigo website. Will try to track down the documentary as well. Enjoy your family Easter gathering as well as your prep time tonight!

The best thing I took away from the Going Clear documentary is that they are down to 50,000 members. Did you know Neil Gaiman was a member but left the church and won't speak about it.

>244 avatiakh: Hi, Kerry! I am glad you weren't lured in by a recruiter. Whew!! I just finished Henni. I really liked it. She creates a nice creepy little world. Thanks for the rec.

>245 Familyhistorian: I am going to try to find Going Clear on audio. I think it is available on Audible. Glad you snagged a copy.

>246 brenzi: Hi, Bonnie! There was a lot of interesting stuff I took away from the Going Clear doc. Honestly, I am even surprised it still has 50,000 members. What are they goofy??
I did not know that about Gaiman. Wow! That is fascinating.

Happy Easter to my favourite book warbler! :D

Mark, I'm glad you are up to date on Thomas Cromwell and Henry VIII. Tomorrow night can't come fast enough. Oh no, I shouldn't say that…sweet Haley and Molly will be here tomorrow with a bunch of other relatives for dinner and an Easter egg hunt. That will be fun…but Wolf Hall should be epic!

Have a great Easter and some days off to enjoy your chocolate eggs!

Sweet! 2 of my favorite LT pals! Smiles...

>248 jolerie: Thanks, Valerie. I hope you are having a perfect weekend.

>249 Donna828: Hi, Donna! I am very glad I knocked out the Mantel books and my timing was ideal. I am going to have a busy day tomorrow I hope I can squeeze in the Wolf Hall premiere.
Enjoy the grandkids!

>246 brenzi: I'm totally with Neil on Scientology. I don't like to talk about it either. Or even, you know, think about it.

>247 msf59: A lot of organised religion can/does look goofy from the outside...

Happy Easter Mark!!

Happy Easter to you, Mark! It's Sunday here now, and the third day of my self-imposed taking-it-easy. (As I said before the weekend, if I got out of my pajamas, I was going to consider the weekend a failure. I have of course gotten out of my pajamas, cooked, gardened, cleaned, and emptied boxes; but that's about it and it's less than I usually do, so yay me!) Friends are coming over tomorrow (Easter Monday) and I'm going to be baking hot cross buns. Yum!

The house move was something we'd talked about - moving closer to the local high school once both kids were there. Unfortunately, the owners of our old house had a different schedule, and we moved a couple of years ahead of when we'd roughly planned. BUT the new house is BIG, has a backyard (and kookaburras!), and it's lovely and rambling and old-fashioned. The old house was modern, and great for keeping an eye on two small kids; but now I can lose them for ages and not worry. :)

And we're a short walk from the new local library :) which is small but I've not yet walked away empty handed. (And a nice bookshop. And a number of cafes. And lots of patisseries of various flavours. And a fabulous butcher. And I wish I'd moved years ago to this neighbourhood!)

I want to live in wookie's neighborhood!

Mark, I finished The Ice Dragon and if you can put your hands on a copy, go get it. It is a sweet little book with Martin's signature touch.... a wee bit spooky, a wee bit dark....and the illustrations are quite wonderful.

Happy holiday weekend!

And Happy Passover! I hope everyone has a terrific day.

>252 roundballnz: Good to see you over here, Alex! This group is way beyond goofy. Scary and dangerous.

>253 Berly: Thanks, Kimmers! Hugs!

>254 wookiebender: Thanks for the lovely update, Tania. Now, I know why I miss you so much, when you are not around. Smiles...

Your new house & neighborhood sound wonderful. Almost storybook. Enjoy the holiday!

>255 maggie1944: Happy Sunday, Karen. Thanks, for the rec. I am not familiar with The Ice Dragon.

Happy Easter, Mark!!

How 'bout those Wisconsin Badgers?? Woo hoo. That was quite an upset.

Easter Brunch shortly and then the Blackhawks/Blues game tonight. We should get to see quite a game tonight.

Happy Easter, Mark!

As Linda says, how 'bout those Badgers? Lucky Linda for going to the Hawks/Blues game.

We're taking it easy today, with a visit from seasonsoflove and her furry buddy. I'm goofing off with a Phryne Fisher mystery before dipping into the more serious stuff. Oh, and some Kay Ryan, as I'm working my way through her "Best of" collection.

Hope you have a good, relaxing one today. The weather is pretty nice, isn't it?

>201 msf59: Oh wow, I love that watercolor!

P and I happened to catch the last two minutes or so of the Wisconsin-Kentucky game. I don't do a bracket for the men's tournament, but I enjoyed that upset. I always like underdogs (unless my team is the overdog) and I lived in WI for almost three years....

Tonight the "Wolf Hall" series begins....

Oh, and our DVR did record the first new episode of "Call the Midwife." I continue to enjoy that series a great deal.

Happy Easter Sunday, Mark!

To the Postie with the Mostie - Happy Easter.

Nice to see that things are ticking along splendidly over here buddy.

Hi Mark, Easter Sundary drive by.

>258 lindapanzo: Thanks, Linda! Have a nice holiday. Go Badgers! Go Cubbies! Go Hawks! Have a great time at the game.

>259 jnwelch: Thanks, Joe! Hope you have a nice day with Becca & Sherlock. It does look like it will be a pleasant day, weather-wise. We always appreciate those.

>260 EBT1002: Thanks, Ellen! Glad you like the watercolor and hooray for Wolf Hall. I am glad you have CTM recorded. We'll probably watch it tonight.

>261 PaulCranswick: Thanks, Paul! Always good to see you, mate. Hope you had a terrific weekend.

>262 lit_chick: Happy Easter, Nancy. Great to see you.

>259 jnwelch: It's always a good time for a Phryne Fisher.

I'm going to take a nap before leaving for the Hawks game. Too many mimosas this morning at Easter brunch, I think. Those always make me sleepy.

I hope you found the beer in your garden. Hi Mark, unfortunately I'm not able to see the photo you posted on my thread but I guess it is a wonderful one.
Enjoy your day. waves and hugs xx

>264 msf59: That's great. Have a Happy Easter, Mark and I hope you found lots on your Easter hunt (beer that is.)

How's the Easter Beer Bottle hunt going , Mark! Enjoy the day!

>213 msf59: The back cover of March Book Two states that it is a trilogy. Since Book Two was just published, I would think Book Three will not appear until 2016.

Whew! I'm caught up now. Only about 600 posts behind on your thread after all the events of the last month got me so far behind. Hope you are having a Happy Easter.

>265 lindapanzo: Hope you had a nice Easter, Linda! Tough losses for the Hawks and Cubbies. Boo!

>266 Ameise1: Yep, I found plenty of beer in the garden, Barb. And just my brand too. LOL.

>267 Familyhistorian: Thanks, Meg. It was a very nice day.

>268 vancouverdeb: I found every beer, Tonto. Aren't you proud?

>269 catarina1: Thanks for confirming. Book Two did not feel like a conclusion.

>270 thornton37814: We had a lovely Easter, Lori. Thanks for catching up.

^I really enjoyed the first part of Wolf Hall. Nicely paced. Good cast. And Mark Rylance is perfect. My only issue, was my DVR cut it off at an hour and I missed the last couple of minutes, while Cromwell was talking to Henry. WTH?

Call the Midwife was excellent too. But when isn't it?

Hope everyone had a wonderful Easter!

>272 msf59: I had no doubt you'd enjoy Wolf Hall, Mark. The DVR issue iss pretty annoying! Unlike the old VCR recording days, DVRs are supposed magically know when the program ends. You might be able to get it On Demand through your cable company, or you can go to the PBS website and stream the last few minutes.

Oh and CTM -- WOW. This was one of the more emotional episodes, IMO. They are really getting deep into the lives of the characters (Sister Julienne's back story), and this is the first time there has ever been a stillbirth, which was handled so sensitively but really knocked me back.

Morning, Mark!

Hey, Mr. Mark! Guess we've got to saddle up and get after them cattle again.

I forgot to tape Wolf Hall last night - how was it? We've gotten caught up in Tina Fey's Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt - absurd, but very funny.

I just started Round House, and I'm liking it so far. Kay Ryan's collection was good, but she doesn't get to me the way Billy Collins and Mary Oliver do.

Hope it's a good one for you today, buddy.

I've allowed Going Clear to distract me from The Secret History of Wonder Woman. Two very weird men - creator of Wonder Woman and creator of Scientology. Very strange, but fascinating.

Morning, Mark!

The Easter Bunny forgot to hide me any beer. I'm sad :(

The mail volume is very heavy today, Ugh but they are giving me a little assistance which helps.

I have not yet cracked Epitaph but I will at lunch and, expect to finish it. Sad face.

>273 lauralkeet: Yes, Laura, very pleased with Wolf Hall and hope to see the section I missed. I did set my DVR for an extra 15 minutes on that show, which should have me covered.
I loved yours thoughts on CTM and agree completely. I also loved how they handled the "spoiler" part.

>274 scaifea: Waves to Amber!

>275 jnwelch: Howdy, Mr. Joe. Yes, the Wolf Hall series, is definitely worth seeing. Top notch all the way. Hope you can catch up.
I watched the first 3 Kimmie Schmidt episodes. They were fun but a bit light and silly for me. I might try a few more.
Glad you are enjoying the Erdrich. You and me both!

>276 maggie1944: Hi, Karen. You are probably going to cause me to get to Going Clear sooner than later. I agree both of those main characters are larger than life.

>277 Crazymamie: Waves &'Hugs to Mamie.

>278 BekkaJo: Awwww, that is to bad, Bekka. Maybe next year?

Hi Mark, happy Monday.

Wow, I think yesterday's CTM was quite possibly their best episode ever. Absolutely loved it.

I may put Alias Grace aside for awhile. It's becoming a slog for me.

>280 msf59: Unbreakable Kimmy is light and silly, no question about it. Of course, that's right in my wheelhouse. :-)

Erdrich looks like a keeper.

BTW, we liked the Insurgent movie. They've loaded up on good actors, and that Shailene Woodley continues to impress.

Hi Mark!

I'm still recovering from your DNF. I have The Bees on my shelf and now I'm even MORE curious about what turned you off. I may have to pick it up sooner rather than later.

Mark, I think maybe the Queen Bee in The Bees scared you off? ;p Hmm, last night I PVR'ed * CTM*. I"ve never seen an episode, so later this evening I'll watch my first episode and I'm glad to hear it is a good one!

I finished Epitaph. Short version: 5 stars. I WILL draw up a mini-review. Hopefully tomorrow morning. I would like to add: I have read 4 books by MDR and 3 of them get 5 stars. That is quite an endorsement. So my crush on MDR continues...unabated.

>281 lindapanzo: Hope you are enjoying your time off, Linda. Yes, CTM was excellent. Show never fails to deliver. Were you going to watch Wolf Hall. The first episode was fantastic.
Sorry, to hear about Alias Grace. Are you giving up completely?

>282 jnwelch: A friend at work loves Unbreakable Kimmy too! Maybe, I'll give it a couple more tries. Glad you liked Insurgent. My son liked it too. I will see it, just for Shailene Woodley.

>283 jolerie: I do not give up on a book, very often, Valerie, but after listening for 2 hours or so, I realized it just wasn't grabbing me. I know others have liked the book, so maybe it was just bad timing.

>284 vancouverdeb: Queen bees do intimidate me a little, Tonto, but not enough to flee. I am so glad you are giving Call the Midwife a try. It is such a terrific show and amazingly consistent.

>286 msf59: When it's not my usual, I'll often start something and then put it aside for awhile.

I am glad to hear that Epitaph was such a good read. I am just starting it; so far, so good.

>287 lindapanzo: Unless, you just can't get back into it, I hope you can finish it. I would hate to see a blot on your record. LOL.

Did you see my question about Wolf Hall?

>288 banjo123: Epitaph starts out a bit differently, focusing on Josie/Sadie's early life, which is interesting but once she kicks in gear, in Tombstone, she never lets up. Hope you love it as much as I did, Rhonda.

Hmmm, I think I missed a Wolf Hall question. I've never read it and probably won't watch it on WTTW.

I don't mind a blot. I started Bleak House 10 times before I finished it.

"I don't mind a blot." And you shouldn't either. LOL. At least you finished Bleak House. That was a feat of tenacity.

>272 msf59: I thought DVR was supposed to eliminate that problem! We still use the old-fashioned system of setting the machinery to run for a specified period of time---even though we added a couple extra minutes on the end, we missed the last bit of Wolf Hall too. Will have to stream it, as @lauralkeet suggests. It's very irritating when the schedule doesn't give you a clue that the timing isn't standard. I know that British TV doesn't necessarily start and end programming on the hour as we are accustomed to here.

Our DVR is provided as part of the cable service so we select what we want to record from the Cable menu. We don't specify start/stop times; I think the DVR picks that up from Comcast automatically. If we miss any program time it's usually less than a minute.

When I say "old-fashioned system" I'm talking no DVR at all...you see. My daughter despairs of her father, who once had to have the newest technology the minute it became available. We do have a Roku box now, but no streaming service, so if it ain't free, we don't see it. I have hope that I will be able to stream Wolf Hall, however.

CTW is the "Best" show on television. And that includes Wolf Hall. In my opinion the opening segment of Wolf Hall was to flat with not enough back story. If you lived in England and English history was drilled into you all through school, or you were a church scholar you "might" have understood what was going on. There is a reason why the book is huge and Cromwell's story is taking Mantel 3 volumes to tell. I have no problem with the acting but the writing is clearly aimed at the English TV viewer. The scant 30 seconds that Catherine of Aragon was given in no way explained why Wolsey was in so much trouble. Plus, I am convinced that the average (non-reader) in the U. S. will not know what is going on - or worse, come away with only half the story and think they know about the Tudor's and the Reformation in England. I will continue to watch this series, but I was expecting more and didn't get it.

Next Sunday watch Call the Midwife, and spend the hour that Wolf Hall is on, reading the book. You can watch the dramatization later.

>295 benitastrnad: - It's a British production, so I don't see that they should worry about catering to an American audience.

>292 laytonwoman3rd: The DVR system is not perfect but most of the time it gets it right. I have the show set for 15 minutes longer, for the rest of the run. PBS, is streaming it. That is how I watched that last few minutes. I hope you can get to it.

>295 benitastrnad: There is Little Miss Sunshine! Grins... I thought Wolf Hall worked perfectly well. It did just thrust the viewer into that historical moment, without a bunch of set-up. I agree, reading the books first, is a big advantage, or at least to know your Tudor history.

In the show's defense, it has 6 hours to tell, what Mantel did, in 900 pages. That is paring it down quite a bit.

Putting Wolf Hall into 6 hours of drama is like trying to put Paul Scott's Raj Quartet into 12 hours. It sort of works, but it would be better if it had been spread out over more episodes.

>298 benitastrnad: I completely agree, but this is what they did and I am just going to enjoy it, By Golly!!

Hiya Mark! Recorded it and I am now hoping that I captured the last few minutes....

>285 msf59: lol, love it :)
...is all I have time for right now. Nature calls if I am honest!! (too much info? Ok. Sorry)

I really enjoyed * CTM* . What have I been missing?

Curious Mark, what turned you off The Bees?

Yay for Epitaph!! I'm so behind on her stuff and I need to catch up!

Happy Tuesday, friend!

Day off! Yah! Since it will be cool and rainy, it is a Double Yah! I was hoping to do some yardwork and some outside cleaning, oh well...more reading time.

I will get the new thread up, as soon as I make these responses.

>300 Berly: I hope you get the entire episode, Kimmers. It ran about an hour-five.

>301 LovingLit: Hope everything came out okay, Megan. Giggles...

>302 vancouverdeb: Hooray for Deb! Now you have 3 full seasons to enjoy and everyone is a keeper.

>303 roundballnz: It has been awhile, Alex, but I remember that is was such a slow build, that I was just not engaging and gave it up. Were you a fan?

>304 scaifea: Morning, Amber! MDR should be an American institution. Why isn't she better known? A question for the ages.

^Warble on over...

>305 msf59: Yeah its one of my fav books of the year, I think you are right though that slow build might not be for all .... but it also wouldn't be right without it