Donna's Reading Life: Ch. 4

Snoopy and his friends have a reminder for all those who are feeling sad about the U.S. election...

Books Read in December:
96. The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown. 4.5 stars. comments
97. For the Time Being by Annie Dillard; audio by Tavia Gilbert. 4.1 stars. comments
98. The Spectator Bird by Wallace Stegner; audio by Edward Hermann. 4.2 stars. comments
99. The Fallen Man by Tony Hillerman. 3.5 stars. comments
100. Spirit of Steamboat by Craig Johnson. 4.1 stars. comments
101. And Every Morning the Way Home Gets Longer and Longer by Fredrick Backman. 4.2 stars. comments.

I read a paltry 1,424 pages in December thanks to a rotten cold that floored me at the worst possible time.
For 2016, I read only 25 of my own books. NOT enough!
19 of my books were Nonfiction (very good for me) and I read my first poetry collection that wasn't for school back in the day.


Books Read in November:
90. Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk by Ben Fountain. 3.8 stars. comments.
91. Do Not Say We Have Nothing by Madeleine Thiene. 4.1 stars. comments.
92. The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead. 3.5 stars. comments.
93. A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles. 5 Fabulous Stars! Review.
94. News of the World by Paulette Jiles. 4.1 stars. comments
95. The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Duman; audio by Jim Lee comments

Pages read in November: 3,091.
Did not read any of my own books. :-(


Books Read in October:
83. The Glorious Heresies by Lisa McInerney. 3.9. Review
84. Heart Earth by Ivan Doig. 4 stars. Review
85. Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit by Jeanette Winterson. 3.8. comments
86. Trapeze by Simon Mawer; audio by Kate Reading. 3.5. short comments
87. Tightrope by Simon Mawer. 3.5. short comments
88. Dry Bones by Craig Johnson. 3.7. comments
89. A Great Reckoning by Louise Penny. 4.1. 🏆 comments

Pages read in October: 2,334.
4 books owned by me.


Books Read in September:
74. Enrique's Journey by Sonia Nazario. 3.7. comments
75. Diplomatic Immunity by Lois McMaster Bujold; audio by Grover Gardner. 3.9. comments
76. The Oregon Trail: A New American Journey by Rinker Buck. 4.4. Review.
77. In the Unlikely Event by Judy Blume. 3.1. comments
78. The Shape of Water by Andrea Camilleri; audio by Grover Gardner. 3.4. comments
79. As Good As Gone by Larry Watson. 4.1. Review
80. Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi. 4.2. comments
81. Miss Jane by Brad Watson. 4.5. 🏆 Review
82. Sacred Clowns by Tony Hillerman; audio by Christian Baskous. 3.1. comments.

Pages read in September: 3,207
One book owned by me.


Books Read in August:
66. The Flood Girls by Richard Fifield. 4.2. Review
67. Glory Over Everything by Kathleen Grissom. 4.1. comments
68. Work Like Any Other by Virginia Reeves. 4.3. 🏆 comments
69. Eileen by Ottessa Moshfegh. 3.5. comments
70. Any Other Name by Craig Johnson. 3.9. comments
71. Schulz and Peanuts by David Michaels; audio by Holter Graham. 3.3. brief comment
72. The English Girl by Daniel Silva; audio by George Guidall. 3.8. comment
73. The Falls by Joyce Carol Oates. 3.7. comments.

Pages read in August: 3,351
Only one book off my shelf.


Books Read in July:
56. LaRose by Louise Erdrich. 4.2 Review
57. Dead Wake by Erik Larson. 4.2 comments
58. Close Range by Annie Proulx. 3.3. comments.
59. The Alaskan Laundry by Brendan Jones. 3.6 Review
60. Barkskins by Annie Proulx. 4.2 Review
61. An Unsuitable Attachment by Barbara Pym. 3.6 stars comments
62. Wintering by Peter Geye. 4.6 🏆 Review
63. Hiking Through by Paul Stutzman; audio by Mike Chamberlain. 3.3 comments
64. Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck; audio by Gary Sinise. 4.5 comments
65. Coyote Waits by Tony Hillerman. 3.2 comments

Pages read in July: 3,282
Three books off my shelf.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Reading Roundup for the First Half of 2016:
55 Books read or listened to. 17 owned by me.

Most Highly Rated Fiction:
In Cold Blood
Sacred Hunger
The Orenda

Most Highly Rated Nonfiction:
When Breath Becomes Air
Just Mercy
Ashley's War
This House of Sky

Meetups:
January/Lawrence, KS at The Dusty Bookshelf with Brenda.
February/Denver at Colfax Tattered Cover with Joanne, Anne, and Kris.
June/Denver at Aspen Grove Tattered Cover with Kris.
November 29, 2016 at Joplin, MO with Terri, Sandy, and Nancy.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Books Read in June:
47. The Magician's Nephew by C. S. Lewis. 3.8 comments
48. A Serpent's Tooth by Craig Johnson. 3.6 comments
49. The Orenda by Joseph Boyden. 4.4 🏆 comments
50. The Hundred-Year Walk by Dawn Anahid MacKeen. 4.2 review
51. The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom. 3.6 comments
52. She Got Up Off the Couch by Haven Kimmel. 3.7 comments
53. A Civil Campagin by Lois McMaster Bujold; audio by Grover Gardner. 4* comments
54. The Nest by Cynthis D'Aprin Sweeney. 3.7 comments
55. White Noise by Don Delilo. 3.9 comments.

Pages read in June: 3.226
Two books off my shelf.


Books Read in May:
38. Talking God by Tony Hillerman. 3.4 stars. comments
39. Bettyville by George Hodgman. 3.25 stars. comments
40. The Book of Memory by Petina Gappah. 4.1 stars. comments.
41. A Wolf Called Romeo by Nick Jans. 4 stars. comments.
42. This House of Sky by Ivan Doig. 4.5 stars. 🏆 comments
43. The Green Road by Anne Enright. 3 stars. comments
44. God on the Rocks by Jane Gardam. 3.6 stars. comments
45. The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens; audio by Zach Villa. 3.7 stars. comments
46. The Tsar of Love and Techno by Anthony Marra. 4.2 stars. comments.

Pages read in May: 2.671
Three books owned by me.


Books Read in April:
29. True Grit by Charles Portis. 4.1 stars. comments
30. The Woman Lit By Fireflies by Jim Harrison. 3.8 stars. comments
31. Library Wars: Love & War by Kiiro Yumi. comments
32. Mountain Shadow by Gregory David Roberts. 3 stars. comments
33. Sweetland by Michael Crummey; audio by John Lee. 3.8 stars. comments
34. Ashley's War by Gayle Tzemach Lemmon. 4.5 stars. 🏆 comments
35. As the Crow Flies by Craig Johnson. 4.1 stars. comments
36. The Improbability of Love by Hannah Rothschild. 4.2 stars. comments
37. Aimless Love by Billy Collins. 4 stars. comments.

Pages read in April: 3,214
Two books owned by me.
**Highlights**
First Manga
First Complete Poetry Collection


Books Read in March
20. The Frozen Thames by Helen Humphreys. 4 stars. comments
21. The Mysterious Affair at Styles by Agatha Christie. 3.6 stars. comments
22. The Art of Fielding by Chad Harbach. 3.9 stars. comments
23. The Bridge of San Luis Rey by Thornton Wilder. 4.1 stars. comments
24. A Thief of Time by Tony Hillerman. 3.5 stars. comments
25. Memory by Lois McMaster Bujold; audio by Grover Garland. comments
26. Komarr by Lois McMaster Bujold; audio by Grover Garland. comments
27. Hell's Bottom, Colorado by Laura Pritchett. 4.3 stars. 🏆 comments
28. The Return of the Native by Thomas Hardy. 3.8 stars. comments.

Pages Read in March: 2,673 Busy month!
5 books owned by me…improving my record.


Books Read in February
9. The Quality of Mercy by Barry Unsworth. 4 stars. comments
10. In Cold Blood by Truman Capote. 4.8 stars. ❤️ comments
11. Hell Is Empty by Craig Johnson. 3.9 stars. comments
12. The Story of the Lost Child by Elena Ferrante. 4.2 stars. comments
13. Elsewhere by Richard Russo. 4.1 stars. comments
14: When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi. 4.8 stars. ❤️ comments
15. Stars Go Blue by Laura Pritchett. 4.5 stars. comments
16. The Lake by Banana Yoshimoto. 3.2 stars. comments.
17. The Revenant by Michael Punke. 4 stars. comments
18. Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson. 4.7 stars. ❤️ comments
19 My Name is Lucy Barton by Elizabeth Strout. 3.5 stars. comments

Total Pages Read in February: 3,217
One one book owned by me. Must read more of my own books!


Books Read in January
1. Sacred Hunger by Barry Unsworth. 4.7 stars. 🏆 Review
2. The Story Of A New Name by Elena Ferrante; audio by Hilary Huber. 4 stars. comments
3. Morgan's Passing by Anne Tyler. 3 stars. Review
4. Ru by Kim Thúy. 3.3 stars. comments
5. The Rebel Angels by Robertson Davies. 4.2 stars. comments
6. Those Who Leave and Those Who Stay by Elena Ferrante.; audio by Hilary Huber. 4.2 stars. comments
7. Avenue of Mysteries by John Irving. 3 stars. Review
8. Skinwalkers by Tony Hillerman. 3.7 stars. comments

Total Pages Read in January: 3,042
4 books owned by me.



🎬Movies Attended in 2016
Brooklyn -- 1/17/16 -- 3.9 stars.
True Grit (2010 version) -- 4/9 -- 4 stars.
The Jungle Book (2016) -- 5/10 -- 4.25 stars. 🐅
The Jungle Book (1967) -- many times with the grands -- 5 stars!
Finding Dory -- 7/4 -- 4.2 stars. 🐟
Florence Foster Jenkins -- 8/14 -- 3.7 stars.
A Man Called Ove -- 11/6 -- 4.5 stars.

I love a CHALLENGE!

These are the challenges that will challenge me in 2016!

As in previous years, my monthly reading is decided by the library books that call to me and the TIOLI -Take It Or Leave It - Challenge that gives me another opportunity to read my own books. In addition, I will be influenced by the following challenges.


Navajo Mystery/Walt Longmire Project - Thank you, Roberta!
Jan: Skinwalkers* ✔️
Feb: Hell Is Empty ✔️
March: A Thief of Time* ✔️
April: As the Crow Flies ✔️
May: Talking God* ✔️
June: A Serpent's Tooth ✔️
July: Coyote Waits* ✔️
Aug: Any Other Name ✔️
Sept: Sacred Clowns ✔️
Oct: Dry Bones ✔️
Nov: The Fallen Man
Dec: Wait for Signs


American Author Challenge - Thank you, Mark!
Jan: Anne Tyler - Morgan's Passing* ✔️
Feb: Richard Russo - Elsewhere: A Memoir ✔️
March: Jane Smiley - A Thousand Acres (ran out of time)
April: Poetry Month - Aimless Love by Billy Collins ✔️
May: Ivan Doig - This House of Sky* ✔️
June: Annie Proulx - Close Range* ✔️
July: John Steinbeck - Of Mice and Men audio by Gary Sinise ✔️
Aug: Joyce Carol Oates - The Falls* ✔️
Sept: John Irving - The World According to Garp*
Oct: Michael Chabon - Wonder Boys
Nov: Annie Dillard - The Living
Dec: Don DeLilo - White Noise* ✔️


British Author Challenge - Thank you, Paul!
Jan: Susan Hill
Barry Unsworth - Sacred Hunger* ✔️
Feb: Agatha Christie - The Mysterious Affair of Styles ✔️
William Dalyrmple
March: Ali Smith
Thomas Hardy - The Return of the Native* ✔️
April: George Eliot
Hanif Kureishi
May: Jane Gardam - God on the Rocks* ✔️
Robert Goddard
June: Antonia Frasier
Joseph Conrad -
July: Bernice Rubens -
H. G. Wells
Aug: Diana Wynne Jones
Ian McEwan
Sept: Doris Lessing
Laurie Lee - Cider With Rosie
Oct: Kate Atkinson - Human Croquet*
William Golding
Nov: Rebecca West
Len Deighton
Dec: West Yorkshire Authors


Canadian Author Challenge - Thank you, Ilana!
Jan: Robertson Davies - The Rebel Angels* ✔️
Kim Thúy - Ru ✔️
Feb: Helen Humphreys - The Frozen Thames* ✔️
Stephen Leacock -
March: Farley Mowat -
Anita Rau Badami -
April: Margaret Atwood
Michael Crummey - Sweetland ✔️
May: Michel Tremblay -
Emily St. John Mandel
June: Timothy Findley
Joseph Boyden - The Orenda ✔️
July: L. M. Montgomery
Pierre Berton -
Aug: Mordechai Richler -
Gabrielle Roy
Sept: Miriam Toews - All My Puny Sorrows
Dany Leferriere -
Oct: Lawrence Hill
Jane Urquhart
Nov: Michael Ondaatje - Anil's Ghost*
Margaret Lawrence
Dec: Alice Munro - The Love Of A Good Woman*
Rawi Hage -


Pulitzer Challenge - Thank you, Bill!
I plan to read at least six of these in 2016 in no particular order.
All are on my shelves. I have read 44 PP winners according to my stats.
1928 - The Bridge of San Luis Rey ✔️
1945 - A Bell for Adano
1947 - All the King's Men
1948 - Tales of the South Pacific
1952 - The Caine Mutiny
1958 - A Death in the Family
1965 - The Keepers of the House - (on Kindle)
1977 - Roots - (Special Citation)
1980 - The Executioner's Song
1981 - A Confederacy of Dunces
1984 - Ironweed
1993 - A Good Scent From A Strange Mountain
2008 - The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao

*On my shelves

A few thoughts about September…

I am not a summer person. September can still be warm, but just turning the calendar page gives me hope. Hope for cooler days and new beginnings. After all, in the century I was born in, school started after Labor Day, and what better beginning than a new school year? I still buy pens and notebooks and anything else that catches my eye in the Back-to-School displays.

Today was a perfect fall day even though it is still summer. People were wearing jackets when we walked Lucky this morning. I wasn't. I wanted the full effect of a brisk walk. My new beginning is an updated exercise routine to go along with my new Fitbit named Fritz the Bully. My husband and dog bully invite me to go on a walk every morning but I need more so I can laugh at my journey into old age. So FritzBully and I either get on the treadmill or, when it is pleasant like today, go for an additional power walk in the afternoon. As I walked a different route today, I noticed many new things including a few orange leaves which lead me to ponder all the things I enjoy about autumn:

Some pictures from the park today. We had a lovely time celebrating family members' late summer and early fall birthdays. All the locals were able to come. Sometimes it is difficult to coordinate schedules. It helps when food is served!


We were lucky the park wasn't crowded on a holiday weekend.


Someone forgot to light the candles but we tried to get the kids to blow them out anyway!


Nothing better than cold watermelon after running around playing games.


This is about as close as Molly and Haley wanted to get to the cave!

Happy New Thread, Donna! Autumn is my favorite season. Of course, September and October are the local summer here, after the tourists go home and all the beaches and other attractions are ours again. But a midwest Fall is the loveliest and most comfortable season there as well.

To answer your question on my thread, probably not. I'm hauling the husband along and we probably are not going to get east of Topeka. After my mom's brush with cancer this summer, family time is tops on the agenda. One of these days I'll get back there on my own again and have more flexibility!

>6 ronincats: I wondered the same thing, Roni. Hopefully that next time will not be too far in the future!

Happy new thread, Donna. After all, in the century I was born in, school started after Labor Day, and what better beginning than a new school year? I was wondering what happened to school starting after Labour Day because it sounded like it was starting earlier there and I thought, for once, the US and Canada were on the same page. Now I understand, they used to be on the same page but not any more. Our school won't start until next Tuesday, just like it has done for as long as I remember.

Happy Saturday, Donna. Happy New Thread. Greetings from the U.P. And hooray for the fall. My favorite season too.

Happy new thread and happy nice weather :)

Happy new one, Donna! Your topper made me laugh. Fall is my very favorite season, so I love that graphic in >4 Donna828:. And also your attitude - joy in the journey is essential, I believe.

Happy new thread, Donna, and congrats on hitting 75. I know that since I got my FitBit, I've been much more conscious of the need to move, especially since I spend so much time at a desk. I, like you, hope for a healthy old age.

I love your topper. Stillwater is a neat town.

Happy new thread, Donna!

>6 ronincats: Hi Roni, thanks for being my first visitor. I understand your situation. Family does come first. You will have a wonderful time I'm sure visiting with your mother and other relatives. One of these days we'll have a Kansas or Missouri meet up.

>7 brenpike: I will echo you, Brenda. So what's our excuse? I sure hope you can make it to Joplin this year. Bring Ollie and Baby Brother along for Show & Tell!

>8 Familyhistorian: Thank you, Meg…and welcome to my thread. School started here on August 17 which just doesn't seem right to me. The best argument I heard for the early opening was that it allows high school students to finish the first semester before Christmas. We also get out before Memorial Day in late May.

>9 msf59: I wish I were kayaking with you, Mark! If any of my visitors don't know what the U.P. is that means you didn't read the end of my last thread where I posted some pictures as a visual reference.

>10 RebaRelishesReading: Thanks, Reba. It is supposed to get back into the 90s next week but if the humidity stays low even that won't seem bad. It's good to have blue skies again!

>11 Crazymamie: That picture is an odd one, isn't it, Mamie? Next time I go to Stillwater, I will try and get an explanation for it. "Joy in the journey" could be my new mantra!

>12 BLBera: Beth, the FitBit works as my conscience. Instead of thinking I should get up and move around more, I just do it so I can get one more of my little hourly circles filled in! Ha, it doesn't take much to amuse me I guess. We love Stillwater. The river is lovely and there are a few interesting bookstores there. Not to mention an egg reading a book!

>13 scaifea: Thanks, Amber. I hope this one will last me until the end of the year. My reading usually slows down in the fall so I won't have as much to post about.

Happy new thread, Donna!
>4 Donna828: aaah yes! all the reasons why I love autumn! (turning on the heat for the first time is another)

>14 Donna828: I don't think we have any legitimate excuse :/
Yes, Joplin, for sure! I'd love to bring (or have their Papa bring) Ollie and Parker :)

Book No. 74: Enrique's Journey by Sonia Nazario. 3.9 stars.

"…someone has stolen his bucket. Without it, he is lost: he used it for sitting, chopping food, washing his feet, and earning a living…Since Enrique has been at the river, he has watched thirty other men and boys sleep at the camp, pay a smuggler, then cross the river into the United States." (160)

This book does a good job of showing both sides of the immigration story. There has been a big increase in the number of people leaving Central America for the U.S. to find jobs and to escape high crime rates in their countries. One of these immigrants was Enrique's mother, Lourdes, who left him with family in Honduras when he was just 5-years-old. He missed her terribly and hung on to her promises to return until at age 17 and after a few unsuccessful attempts he managed to make the harrowing journey by riding the trains leading to the border, then using a smuggler to help him cross the Rio Grande into Texas. He was beaten and suffered hunger, dehydration, and exhaustion along the way but he persevered to rejoin the mother he could barely remember.

The author did five years of research, much of it retracing Enrique's steps all the way back to the shack where he lived in Honduras. She received two Pulitzer Prizes for her series of articles in the Los Angeles Times which put humanity in the forefront of the illegal immigration issues which face our country. It is a complicated issue and made for an insightful discussion at my book group. We both admired Enrique and were also disappointed with him after he reached his goal. I laud the author for not glossing over the problems he had once he arrived here. We came to the conclusion that more measures need to be taken to help people in their own countries where they want to stay with their families.

On a side note, I am pleased to say that my husband and I have moved part of our business to Honduras so this book really hit home with me. We will be providing jobs in an impoverished village which we hope will make a big difference in many people's lives. And no people in the U.S. lost their jobs in doing so! We could only do this because of the strides made by the people of Honduras with the help of the U.S. to combat crime in their country. It is still a dangerous place but things are beginning to look better…at least in the village of Macuelizo, Honduras.




Our factory isn't up and running yet. We had to build this concrete fence with razor wire atop to satisfy the authorities. We have hired some people including a security team who live in the compound and patrol with sawed-off shotguns! I can't wait to visit. ;-)

>15 Carmenere: Lynda, I always celebrate that first cold day with a cup of hot chocolate!

>16 brenpike: I am looking forward to seeing you and those sweet boys in November…or will it be early December again? I'd better get it on the calendar. Joplin…Here We Come!!!

Book No. 75: Diplomatic Immunity by Lois McMaster Bujold; audio by Grover Gardner. 3.9 stars

This book just happened to be my 75th book, but I'm glad as it is a series I would never have discovered if it hadn't been for LibraryThing. I took a chance and learned that Science Fiction can be fun! Miles Vorkosigan and a large cast of supporting characters have been entertaining me for several years now. I believe this is No. 12 in the series, at least the way I'm reading them.

In this installment Miles and Ekaterin are on the way to attend the birth of their twins. (I wish we had replicators in our world to make the birth process safer and more predictable.) They are delayed when Emperor Gregor asks/orders Miles to investigate some shenanigans at Graf Station. Once again, Miles is able to demonstrate his intelligence and wit as he saves the four-armed Quaddies from a big problem. I still find it funny that I can type a sentence like that in all seriousness. I never thought I could be a fan of space opera!

Happy new thread, Donna!

>4 Donna828: I like your September list. I may just take it to heart and make it a challenge.

>19 Donna828: Congrats on 75! I tried Bujold many years ago and it never connected with it. Is there a good stand alone to try?

Congrats on 75, Donna! I love how LT pulls me out of my reading comfort zones!

Congrats!

So, Donna, do you have plans for a trip to Honduras? Winter might be a good time for a visit. ;)

>17 Donna828: Fantastic!!!!

Hi Donna! What a good egg in the top photo!

Yay for the Fitbit! Are you Donna H in the LT group? If so, you are doing wonderfully - much better than I am. Although in the last few days I've noticed some muscles under the flab in my legs.

Your Honduras project is wonderful - but that is quite a fence! Don't you think it would look much nicer with a Little Free Library outside the gate? ;-)

Dang, I just lost all my responses. I'll try again but I'm not sure the original wit can be replicated! Lol.

>20 brodiew2: I'd love to see what you enjoy about fall, Brodie. I have only read the Vorkosigan series. Sorry I can't be more help.

>21 porch_reader: Thanks, Amy. It's good to try new things...and even better when they click!

>22 drneutron: Thank you, Jim.

>23 BLBera: I do plan to visit Honduras this winter, Beth. My husband loves the people but not the heat!

>24 karspeak: Hi Karen, thanks for your enthusiasm!

>25 streamsong: I am in the LT Fitbit group, Janet. I sent you a friend request. Muscles weigh more than flab I've heard. I must be really getting fit...I gained two pounds this week! I love love love the LFL idea! It would certainly add a touch of class.

Big picnic in the park today for the family to celebrate late summer birthdays. The sun is shining and humidity levels are tolerable. I plan to have FUN!

Congrats on reaching 75, Donna :-)

>17 Donna828: We came to the conclusion that more measures need to be taken to help people in their own countries where they want to stay with their families.
I completely agree and applaude your effords in Honduras!

Happy New Thread, Donna!

I love the Vorkosigan series. Kudos to you for taking a chance outside your comfort zone. I'm so glad you're enjoying it.

I posted a few picnic pictures in Msg. #5. You may be able to click on one to see the rest of the pics on photoshop. I'll leave the album open to the public for awhile. It really was a fun day!

>27 FAMeulstee: Hi there, Anita. How are things in Holland? Thank you for those kind words.

>28 jnwelch: Thanks, Joe. I'm glad there are some more books to enjoy in the series. I may try some of her other books when I finish with Miles et al.

OMG you snuck in that #75 in there and it didn't notice. Congrats for reaching 75, Donna!

Congrats on 75!
I'm really interested in the Vorkosigan series but feel like I have too many others in progress. And just when I think I've completed a series those darn authors churn out another volume (Louise Penny, Craig Johnson, Jacqueline Winspear, etc.).
P.S. Love your family photos!

Congrats on hitting 75!

Hooray for hitting 75, my friend. The rest is gravy...

>29 Donna828: All is well in Holland, Donna, although it is a bit too warm for my taste. Longing for autumn to arrive.

t's not everyday one sees a golden egg reading a book! I'll say, what a great topper! Love the pics of your family-birthdays-in-the-park, as always. And happy new thread, Donna.

Congratulations on hitting the 75 book mark, and with such a fun book too!

Happy New Thread, Donna. I love the topper and your family photos are great.
Congrats on reaching 75. Well done!

Happy new thread Donna and lovely to see more family pictures. Molly and Haley are getting big!

Congratulations on reading 75 books and so pleased you are continuing to enjoy your adventures in the Vorkosigan series! A close friend of mine has just given birth to twins - they are all doing ok but reading your post I did think birth replicators would have made everything a lot easier!

Congrats on hitting 75! How cool to have a business in Honduras. Enrique's Journey was One Book One San Diego pick a few years ago. I found it pretty powerful.

Hi Donna! Nice topper picture! So sorry we couldn't see each other while you were whizzing through MN, but I guess that's what happens when you whiz. :) I almost started Come Be My Light again yesterday, but decided to pick up The Myth of Sisyphus instead. However, you've convinced me to give the Mother Teresa book one more chance. I'm almost through the bureaucracy part, so it should perk up now.

>17 Donna828: Wow! What an interesting connection you have to Enrique's Journey. Congrats to you and your husband, it sounds like a worthy endeavor!

>30 Familyhistorian: I'm a sneaky one, Meg. Thanks!

>31 vivians: Thank you, Vivian. Series are both a joy and a curse, aren't they? I don't have nearly as many as a lot of other LTers, but I still hesitate to begin a new one. Having said that, I am listening to the first one about Detective Montalbano in Italy. They are short books narrated by Grover Gardner. That's my excuse! I'm glad you like the photos. I enjoy sharing them.

>32 thornton37814: Thanks, Lori!

>33 msf59: Gravy, huh? My real goal is 100 books, although I usually don't have to struggle too much to reach it. It's a good thing I like gravy.

>34 FAMeulstee: Oh yes, same here, Anita. Late summer is a drag except for the occasional cool spell that gives me hope. We had a brief respite from the heat this week end. I took advantage of it for a long walk in the park.

>35 lit_chick: Thanks, Nancy. I love my reading egg. Wish I knew the story behind it. As for the family pics, I try not to overdo it. I didn't even take a picture of Molly during her sleepover last night into this afternoon. We were too busy having fun!

>36 ronincats: Roni, somehow I knew you would approve. I thank you so much for encouraging me to try sci-fi and then suggesting just the right series.

>37 Ameise1: Hi Barbara. I appreciate the compliments! I need to pop over and see how your school year is going. I'll be in the classroom this week but this time as a guest for Grandparents' Day. Haley started Kindergarten this year. Unbelievable.

>38 souloftherose: I got a chuckle out of your comment on the replicators, Heather. It's like an inside joke…and, believe me, childbirth is no joke! Yes, Molly and Haley are both growing up too fast…with Hope not far behind them. I think they will all be together here late in October if everything goes as planned. Crossing fingers and toes!

>39 RebaRelishesReading: Reba, can't remember if I mentioned it or not, but Enrique's Journey is Missouri State's pick for all freshmen to read this year. The author will be paying a visit in November. I hope I'm able to hear her speak. I would love to learn more about Honduras before I go.

>40 The_Hibernator: Come Be My Light should be even more interesting in light (inadvertent pun) of Mother Theresa's recent sainthood. I have heard it said that she didn't do the right thing for the poor people but she did give them her all out of selfless love. I don't know how she kept the faith through the long ordeal where she felt ignored by God. I'll be interested in your take on the rest of the book when you get to it, Rachel. I'm sorry we are always in such a hurry when we head north. Maybe thing will change when Lucky passes on. We're always in a hurry to get home to him. I hope I didn't put a hex on him…

>41 Carmenere: I hope our endeavor grows to be a real help to a community that needs a boost, Lynda. We've been interested in that part of the country ever since we've been contributing to The Rainbow Network in Nicaragua. We give money to support several teens in their schooling. They have to provide uniforms, books and supplies, and pay for their own transportation to the schools that are usually a distance away. I'm a firm believer in giving back but like to choose the way we do it. Oh oh…this is a politics free zone...

Book No. 76: The Oregon Trail: A New American Journey by Rinker Buck. 4.4 stars.

"The era of the canvas-topped wagons crossing the American plains lasted about fifty years. During the peak migration years of the 1840s and 1850s, more than 400,00 pioneers crossed, in about sixty thousand wagons, but there were still remnant wagon trains rumbling across the prairie with homesteaders well into the 1890s. A giant wave of economic destiny rolled west with the red wheels. But history is often nonlinear and event followed event with unpredictable charm." (65)

I didn't want to rush through this wonderful memoir of two brothers who made the trip from western Missouri to Oregon following the Oregon Trail with a covered wagon pulled by three mules. It's a book rich in history and personal stories about the Rinker family. It also contains many vignettes of the help they received from so many people along the trail.

Rinker was talking about the historical journeys in the above quote but the "unpredictable charm" can also well describe the more current reenactment. I particularly enjoyed how the two brothers got along with two very different personalities sharing a close space for over four months. They both had to modify their behavior to make this trip work. "Essentially, crossing the Oregon Trail together, we were a case of collaborating DNA presenting symptoms of incurable bipolar disorder. I proceed with an abundance of caution and prefer not to be dead. Nick is thrilled by danger and proceeds with an abundance of risk."

Thanks to Mark for warbling about this book and recommending it to me. In turn I will recommend it to those who enjoy American history, family relationships, and stories about overcoming hard times. Not to mention that I learned much about mules and what amazing animals they are. It was good to have this combination thrown together with a smattering of humor. I can honestly say I had a very good reading week.

Hi Donna! I was just perusing your list of August reads. I have The Alaskan Laundry at home waiting for my return from this second vacation in as many months (she said sheepishly). And I also gave Eileen 3.5 stars. But I have found myself wondering if it doesn't deserve a wee bit more, given how it has stuck with me.

The Oregon Trail: A New American Journey sounds wonderful! I missed Mark's warbling but your review has me adding it to the wish list.

And congrats on reaching 75!!

>44 Donna828: I wish I'd read that one before I made the trip to Oregon this past summer. As it is, I'll probably read it as I have the chance. I've read several other books on the trail, both fiction and non-fiction, over the years, so I was never in a big hurry to get to that one. It sounds like a great book though.

Happy new thread, Donna, and congratulations on hitting the 75 Books mark. Nice photos of your granddaughters!

Congrats on reaching 75, Donna. I've been looking at The Oregon Trail; I think it's one my dad might like.

Great review of The Oregon Trail, Donna. If you post it, I will give it a Big Fat Thumb. I want more folks to hear about this one.

At the end of the audiobook, Rinker and Nick talk about the trip and it was a hoot. I would love to have a beer with these guys.

>4 Donna828: Love that you named your Fitbit. LOL.

>17 Donna828: Wow! What an exciting venture. I hope things go very well for you and for the village. Sawed off shotguns sound more than a little exciting.

Congratulations on 75!

Oh dear, great review now there's another book I want to read.

Now here's a book award list I can get excited about. I've read none of them but have three on reserve at the library.

National Book Award Long List

Fiction

Chris Bachelder, The Throwback Special
Garth Greenwell, What Belongs to You
Adam Haslett, Imagine Me Gone
Paulette Jiles, News of the World
Karan Mahajan, The Association of Small Bombs
Elizabeth McKenzie, The Portable Veblen
Lydia Millet, Sweet Lamb of Heaven
Brad Watson, Miss Jane
Colson Whitehead, The Underground Railroad
Jacqueline Woodson, Another Brooklyn

The finalists will be announced on Oct. 13, and the winners will be announced at a New York gala on Nov. 16.

>52 Donna828: A couple were already on my radar. I looked at descriptions of a few of the others and have no desire to read some of them. I'll probably only stick to those already on my radar.

I probably won't be able to get to Come be My Light till next year now. I decided to plan a group cover-to-cover read of the Bible next year, and I want to read a couple of books before I start: How to Read the Bible by James Kugel, The Art of Biblical Narrative by Robert Alter and maybe The Art of Biblical Poetry by Robert Alter. That's a lot of heavy reading to pump through by the end of the year, but I want to be ready for a good reading of the Bible.

Thanks for the list, Donna. The Underground Railroad interests me. I've heard about this one, but can't remember just where at the moment.

It seems like I can either read or play around on LT! I am behind on responding to my lovely visitors, BUT I have two books to report on!

>45 EBT1002: I am right there with you on Eileen. It is a book that sticks with me. I think I must like creepy books! Thanks for the congrats!

>46 thornton37814: It was a good one, Lori. A bit of a different take on the Oregon Trail journey.

>47 kidzdoc: Thanks, Darryl!

>48 BLBera: I don't know your dad, Beth, but I think my dad might have liked it. There's a lot of he-man stuff in it like fixing broken axles, etc. The history part was good, too.

>49 msf59: I could see that happening…Mark and Rinker and Nick sitting around talking about mules. Haha. I may clean up my review a bit and post it just for you!

>50 nittnut: Fritz and I have a love/hate relationship. I find it easier just to get those 10,000 steps in so he can quit nagging me! Since I posted the picture around our Honduras factory, they have painted the cinder block fence. It is now lime green! I wonder if they got a good deal on the paint. No one consulted us about the color, though I kind of like it…

>51 RebaRelishesReading: Sorry, Reba. I have a long list of books I want to read because our friends make them sound soooo good. I feel your pain.

>53 thornton37814: Lori, I just received notices that Miss Jane and The Association of Small Bombs are waiting for me at the library. I requested the second one because no one else was in line for it. My librarian friend highly recommended MJ and I have been eagerly awaiting it. I have no interest in some of them but I think it is a more appealing list than the Booker Prize list.

>54 The_Hibernator: Rachel, it sounds like you are doing your homework before you begin your journey through the Bible. I think I may have skimmed parts of Numbers when I read it years ago. Now I stick to my favorite parts. ;-)

>55 lit_chick: Several LTers have been raving about The Underground Railroad. My other friend Nancy is loving it!

Hi Donna! Congrats on hitting #75! And your Honduras business venture sounds interesting. Adrian's friend Stella's family spent a couple of years doing mission work in Honduras. One of my mother's college friends has been a medical missionary in Honduras for several decades. I agree that winter is a great time to visit that part of the world. I've spent Christmas in Mexico several times, and I'm going again this year. My SIL's relatives who live in the Yucatan Peninsula think it's cold there in December. It feels perfect to me!

>58 cbl_tn: Thanks for sharing your Honduras connections, Carrie. I am eager to visit but have no plans yet. My husband wants the factory to be up and running when I go. I think we will move the equipment to make pilot uniforms from Missouri to Honduras later this fall. We're still waiting for the official Free Trade Zone designation papers to come through. We've done the paperwork and paid the bribes to expedite matters. Christmas in Mexico sounds great. My daughter and her husband go to Cabo San Lucas every January and love it there.

Book No. 77: In the Unlikely Event by Judy Blume. 3.1 stars.

"When Miri opened her eyes she saw feet, dozens of feet, and at first she was so disoriented she didn't know where she was. She couldn't hear anything. There was a ringing in her ears. From every direction people were running toward the flames that were shooting up, toward the thing that had crashed and was burning in the frozen bed of the Elizabeth River." (53)

Judy Blume centers this book for "adults" around the three plane crashes that jolted the inhabitants of Elizabeth, New Jersey, in the early 1950s. The author grew up in the area and experienced the fear and confusion following the series of crashes that killed over 100 people in the planes and on the ground. She was about the same age as Miri, the teenage protagonist that witnessed the crashes. Although the book is touted as adult fiction, it had a young adult feel to it as Miri went through the usual first true love angst of a teenage girl. The long cast of characters let the story show the general trepidation of the community but it weakens the emotional impact of the tragedies. If this book hadn't been loaned to me by a friend, I probably would have quit reading it as it was such a slow starter.

Book No. 78: The Shape of Water by Andrea Camilleri; audio by Grover Gardner. 3.5 stars.

I can see why LTers enjoy this series of mysteries set in Sicily. Inspector Salvo Montalbano follows his instincts when a local politician is found to have died after sex in an area rampant with prostitutes and drugs. He doesn't doubt the cause of death, a heart attack, but is suspicious about the scene where he died. I liked the fast pace and the decency of the Inspector. I loved the audio by Grover Gardner, a favorite of mine. One might say I am hooked! Thanks to Paul who first brought this series to my attention and to Joanne, Nancy, and others whose enjoyment encouraged me to give it a try.

Tickled that you are hooked on Montalbano, Donna! Isn't Grover Gardner fabulous? One of the best narrators I've come across, I think; and he's perfect for this series. (somehow, I'm thinking I already made this comment to you, but I can't remember, so here it is again, LOL).

>62 lit_chick: I remember now that we did have a conversation about GG and also Montalbano. I've added your name to my comment above, Nancy. I really need to take notes on who recommends what!

>52 Donna828: I'm so glad that Miss Jane is on this list. It is a remarkable tale!

It seems like I can either read or play around on LT!

True! I'm making a quick quick run of the most relevant threads before I go out and spend the day offline.

I'll be interested to learn more about the fiction (and non-fiction) books chosen for this year's National Book Awards. As I mentioned on Lynda's thread I'll start with The Underground Railroad and Another Brooklyn, which I'll buy after I return to Atlanta.

Happy Sunday, Donna. And hooray for Inspector Montalbano! I agree, Gardner does a great job narrating this series.

Hi Donna! Lots of good reading going on here. I'm intrigued by The Oregon Trail, especially the parts about donkeys. I love learning little tidbits like that along with historical events.

I love your Humpty Dumpty Topper, or that is what I take him to be? So darling! Miss Jane has caught my interest too, but no signs of it at the library as of now.

>64 Whisper1: That's why my librarian friend said, Linda. I will get to Miss Jane soon.

>65 kidzdoc: Hi Darryl, the NBA books were more familiar to me than the Booker Prize books. Still, there were a few surprises for me to check out.

>66 msf59: Mark, I think I'll be catching up with the Montalbano series fairly quickly. I like the size of them. I can listen to them in a few days and keep the facts straight. If a book goes on too long, I can get lost in it. Maybe I need a mail route?

>67 porch_reader: Me too, Amy. A few fun facts and some humor humanize the historic aspects and make them stay with me better.

>68 vancouverdeb: That's what I think too, Deborah, but I'm not sure why he is reading a book. I don't think he was outside a bookstore but we went by too quickly to be 100% sure. We'll probably be in the area again and I will check it out. We don't always get ready access to Canadian authors. I will have to see which of the Giller list is available at my library.

Book No. 79: As Good As Gone by Larry Watson. 4.1 stars.

I finally got around to reading and reviewing this Early Reviewer book. Larry Watson books are always a treat for me! Here is the review I posted:

Although I didn't love this book as much as some of Watson's earlier works, I thought he told a good story about a dying breed…The American Cowboy. Calvin Sidey is living alone in his rundown trailer out in the heat of the desert. The memories of his beloved French wife haunt him more than the family he abandoned when she died. His son Bill must have been desperate when he asked this old man to come to town and stay with his grandchildren while he took his wife to Missoula for an operation. Surprisingly, Calvin shows up with the bare essentials including a gun and ammo, just in case.

Ann and Will are good kids and there wasn't supposed to be much for gramps to do. And then he found out Ann was having more boy trouble than she could handle on her own and Will's friends aren't his friends at all. The friendly neighbor who remembers Calvin as a mysterious but sexy man from her past is the biggest surprise:

"If someone came to the door or peered through Beverly's window, he or she would witness a scene so typically domestic that there would be nothing remarkable--much less scandalous--in it. At the kitchen table a man and woman sit across from each other, and the steam rising from their cups probably means the coffee was just poured. He smokes, careful not to exhale in her direction. She wears a bathrobe and a towel turban. Although they seem pleased to be in each other's company, neither can resist glancing out the window at the steady rain the parched Montana needs so badly. And with that thought a strange competition suggests itself to Beverly: Both needs have now been met, but which was greater--Montana's for precipitation or a widow's for touch?" (212)

Watson may not have given the best explanations for his characters' actions and the ending seemed to flag, but the more I thought about the book, the vulnerable women in the book were a product of the early 1960s and the ending was just right. Mr. Watson's spare prose and authentic characters are a good match for their setting and the stories he tells about life in Montana.

Hi Donna, I loved going through your busy and eclectic new-to-me thread. And I loved those photos up top, both picnickers and good eggs. :)

I also have the Larry Watson to get to yet. His books tend to run hot or cold with me and I think I'm putting it off for fear of disappointment. I just started Wintering so I'm not without a good read!

I'm so glad you enjoyed your first Montalbano book! I'm often tempted to try the audio versions but I have all the books so.... For me, they have turned into dependable comfort reads - familiar, humorous, and pretty good company.

>70 Donna828: Thanks for this great review!

>70 Donna828: A very nice review, Donna - I have that one, too, and I need to get to it.

Glad you have discovered Camilleri - I love to squeeze those books in between heavier stuff. Grover Gardner seems like a odd match for these books, so I'll have to check it out.

Hoping that your weekend is full of fabulous!

>71 Copperskye: You may not like the latest Watson as much as I did, Joanne. It had its flaws but I tend to overlook them when LW is writing. I've rated most of the books I've read by him 4 stars. I just checked my stats. Four got the 4-star treatment while Orchard received 3.5 and White Crosses only 3 stars so I guess there were a few misses for me after all. I hope you love Wintering as much as I did, Joanne. I'm so glad you did a few warbles about him…such a good author.

>72 Whisper1: You are very welcome, Linda.

>73 Crazymamie: I think those Camilleri books will make great in-betweeners, Mamie. I am so used to Grover Gardner and the Vorkosigan books that it seemed a little strange to me at first, but I soon went with his narration. He is one of my faces and has performed many different types of books, including a fair share of religious non-fiction.

I got up early this morning (on a Saturday!) to finish Homegoing. I could have stayed up late last night but I wanted to be fully present for it. Such a good book and worthy of the praise its been getting. I got to think about it while I walked and sweated in the yard doing some cleaning up of flower beds. I thought the calendar said autumn has arrived?!?

Book No. 80: Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi. 4.2 stars.

"What I know now, my son: Evil begets evil. It grows. It transmutes, so that sometimes you cannot see that the evil in the world began as the evil in your own home. I'm sorry you have suffered. I'm sorry for the way your suffering casts a shadow over your life, over the woman you have yet to marry, the children you have yet to have." (242)

It's hard to believe this is a debut novel. Ms. Gyasi is an accomplished writer who has a passion for her topic of family history and redemption. She did a good job of reminding us that the bad guys are not always outsiders. The warring African tribes were very important to the slave trade. Two African sisters separated at a very young age were the basis of the story. One was sold into slavery and the other remained in present day Ghana. It must be incredibly difficult to distill 250+ years of family history to a 300-page book, especially when the families are living on two continents. The family tree in the beginning of the book was very helpful in keeping the characters straight.

The parallel stories are well-crafted and provide as much individual characterization as possible in the pages allotted to each family member. It is so true what the author said about those in power are the ones who get to write the history books. After reading this, I am very tempted to pick up my long-neglected copy of Roots and read another view of the history of slavery.

Great comments on Homegoing, Donna. I can't wait to see what Gyasi writes next. It was a wonderful first novel, I think.

Wonderful review of Homegoing, Donna. So glad you enjoyed it. I think this is a fine idea: After reading this, I am very tempted to pick up my long-neglected copy of Roots and read another view of the history of slavery.

>75 Donna828: I just finished this one yesterday. I agree that the family tree was really helpful, especially in the beginning when I hadn't yet grasped how the structure was going to work. Still thinking about what I want to say about it.

Morning Donna! I'm glad you are on the Camelleri band wagon too! :( I had to return Homegoing to the library unread because another person was in line for it. :) I'm able to get all of the National Book Award LL from my library. The Underground Railroad deserves all the raves it's been getting. I'm currently reading Veblen and listening to The Throwback Special. Although, older books certainly have their place, I'm really enjoying reading in the present.

>75 Donna828: That one sounds interesting.

Wow, lots of good reading, Donna. I'm another Montalbano fan, so I'm pleased to hear you're hooked on the series. You've convinced me, along with Mark, on The Oregon Trail, and I'll add that to the WL. I liked Homegoing, too; what a strong debut.

>76 BLBera: It sure was, Beth.

>77 lit_chick: The only thing stopping me is the length of Roots. I am thinking of a personal challenge next year to read one behemoth per month. My number of books may go down but the pages will remain approximately the same--or go up.

>78 ursula: Ursula, I try to let a book simmer for a day or two in my thoughts before I write about it, especially one that gets an emotional response from me. I look forward to your thoughts on Homegoing.

>79 Carmenere: Linda, it's hard not to get sucked into the prize lists that are coming out. I don't have much luck picking a winner, though. Still waiting for my copy of Underground Railroad.

>80 thornton37814: It was interesting, Lori. I highly recommend it

>81 jnwelch: Welcome home, Joe. I think you will like The Oregon Trail very much. You know Mark and I wouldn't steer you wrong! The Rinker brothers are a hoot!

Congratulations on reading 80 books thus far this year.

>83 Whisper1: Thanks, Linda. I know many LTers have read more books than me, but I am happy with my rate of reading and my books. I'm delighted that we both loved the most recent book I read. I'm about to write my thoughts on Miss Jane…knowing I won't do that lovely book the justice it deserves.

Book No. 81: Miss Jane by Brad Wilson. 4.5 stars.

“She loved most being in the woods with the diffused light and the quiet there. Such a stillness, with just the pecking of ground birds and forest animals, the flutter of wings, the occasional skittering of squirrels playing up and down a tree. The silent, imperceptible unfurling of spring buds into blossom. She felt comfortable there. As if nothing could be unnatural in that place, within but apart from the world."

A baby is born on a Mississippi farm in the beginning years of the 20th century. Dr. Thompson immediately knows something is drastically wrong but the impairment isn't immediately defined, making the reader wonder just what makes Miss Jane Chisolm different from other girls…'within but apart from the world.' The breathtaking first chapter introduces us to a young girl who is happy with herself and unafraid of most things, including her own strangeness. Her parents didn't plan to have another child at their advanced ages but her father's love of his apple brandy and her mother's addiction to laudanum overcame their resistance. They both felt guilty because of her affliction. Jane lacked the freedom of other girls because of her incontinence yet she discovered the freedom of roaming the wooded areas on their property and spent most of her time exploring the natural world.

As Miss Jane grows she develops a quiet courage to accept her genital defect that is so gently explained by her one true friend, Dr. Ed Thompson, who tells her at a very young age that she wasn't finished forming her private parts when she was born so she has little control over her bodily functions. She longs to go to school and learns to fast so she won't lose control of her bowels and embarrass herself. She is very bright and treasures a book by Flaubert that Dr. T gives to her. He seems to know the things to say and do to help make up for her parents melancholy lack of parenting.

There are so many wonderful things about this book The compassionate way her doctor explains her anomoly and answers her curious questions about sex help her understand that she will never marry or have a normal relationship with a man. Instead of becoming bitter, she quietly accepts her situation and learns to take life as it is. Such a wonderful lesson told with simplicity and always giving Miss Jane the dignity she deserves. This book touched my heart and knowing it was based on the author's Great Aunt Jane made it even more meaningful. It has my vote for The National Book Award.

Hi Donna! I am now deeply wounded, after being hit by both Homegoing and Miss Jane!! And I really should read another Montalbano. So, the least I can offer you in return is, since you really liked The Oregon Trail book, I actually live near the end of the Oregon Trail and I would be happy to show it to you. ; )

Donna, fabulous review of Miss Jane. I'd not heard about this one but it is immediately hitting my list. *off to the library to place a request*

Great reviews of Homegoing and Miss Jane, Donna! I've read the Gyasi, and I'll definitely read the Watson.

>82 Donna828: Roots is a big book, but it reads fast. I will have to pick up Homegoing very soon. Passed by (north?) of you a couple of days ago. Missouri is a pretty state.

Good morning, Donna! I hope all is well with you.

>86 Berly: Kim, that's the best offer I've had in a long time. Don't be surprised if I take you up on it someday. I'd love to visit Portland again. It's been way too long.

>87 lit_chick: That was quick, Nancy. I hope your library has it. It was such an inspirational book. I love books about strong women and Miss Jane had a quiet strength that I won't soon forget.

>88 kidzdoc: It's unusual that I read a book before you, Darryl. I think I am listening to a book I first heard about from you… Trapeze by Simon Mawer? I know I got The Glass Room recommendation from you. I do need to keep better records. That will be one of my LT goals for next year.

>89 nittnut: Thanks, Jenn. I have enjoyed keeping up with your cross-country trip on FB. So glad that you have arrived in your new city. Best of luck to you and your family in North Carolina.

>90 brodiew2: Hi Brodie, all is well with me. Just busy like everyone else. I can't believe this is the last day in September. It's about time I updated my thread. How are things in the northwest?

The PNW is getting colder. I noticed the change of season most specifically last night and today. The air is no longer warm, but cool. Gotta start wearing a sweatshirt.

Wonderful review of Miss Jane. I've had it on my wishlist for several months, but my library does not have it so far. I might think about purchasing it. Thumbed! It is getting cooler in the Pacific Southwest, if you are me, and not Brodie!;) My husband tells me he needs to do something or other to the furnace and I've warned him that he only has 1 or 2 days left to do whatever it is that he thinks he needs to do. It is nice and sunny though, and not bad temperature wise.

Book No. 82: Sacred Clowns by Tony Hillerman. 3.1 star.

I continue to enjoy this series set in the southwest. It has been interesting to see how the different personalities of Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee affect their working relationship as they solve crimes on the Navajo reservation where they serve as tribal policemen. Jim is young and ruled by his heart and spiritual connection while Leaphorn is more experienced and depends on his patience and persistence to solve crimes. They are working together on two murders that may or may not be related. The mystery isn't solved until the very end but it is another intriguing journey to get there. Both men have a love interest that may be in jaopardy which adds a bit of romance to the crime-busting business.

>92 brodiew2: Sweatshirt weather here too, Brodie, at least in the mornings and evenings. Back to the 80s next week, though.

>93 vancouverdeb: Hi Deborah, I did a doubletake when you described your area as the Pacific southwest. Makes perfect sense from the Canadian perspective! We are having a little nip to our weather here in the heart of the U.S. calling for a light jacket on my morning dog walks this week. I love it. Fall is a rejuvenating time for me. Thanks for the thumb…and I definitely think you need to obtain a copy of Miss Jane somehow. It really is a memorable and well-told story.

>91 Donna828: I own a copy of Trapeze, but I haven't read it yet. I loved The Glass Room, though.

Happy October Donna!

Hi Donna! I'm endeavoring to get caught up with everyone, now that I'm back home. I'm glad you liked Homegoing, and I haven't heard of Miss Jane before - sounds intriguing...

Weeks belated (sorry!) congrats on hitting 75!! :D
Can't believe I hadn't posted here yet, because I clearly read some before today. Hm...

Trying not to catch BBs which is very difficult with your thread. They all sound so good and so many with more than 4 stars! But I got so many tbrs on my Kindle already (all purchased as I can't get them in the library, so they're all must-reads) and once again my head wants a reading break.

The first Montalbano is a bit rough, I thought they read easier/smoother further on in the series. Which reminds me that I didn't read any this summer...

Happy Monday, Donna. Great comments on Miss Jane; I hope to get to it soon.

Good morning, Donna. I hope all is well with you.

> It has been some time since I'v read or listened to a Hillerman. My mother is a hug fan of his and other Native American mystery series. I'll look at it again. It makes me wonder who they have narrating the audio books. :-)

>97 The_Hibernator: Right back at ya, Rachel. I've been loving October thus far. The leaves are just bgeinning to turn and the cooler mornings make my daily walk a joy instead of a chore.

>98 katiekrug: Welcome home, Katie. You certainly had some adventures hanging out with royalty in Dubais. And more excitement on the way… I loved Miss Jane. It's a quiet book with a pensive tone and courageous woman at its heart. Can't stop thinking about Miss Jane.

>99 Deern: Hi Nathalie, I often read threads without commenting. You certainly get a pass from me. I enjoyed The Shape of Water but I know from experience that almost all series get better with age and getting to know the main characters. I thought it might be a little rough because I listened to much of it while I was on the treadmill! It did make my exercise go by faster, though.

>100 BLBera: Happy Monday to you, Beth. I'm hoping you like Miss Jane just as much as I did.

>101 brodiew2: Sacred Clowns is the first Hillerman I've listened to, Brodie. It was narrated by Christian Baskous. I actually like reading them better. The narrator almost put me to sleep! The only copy my library had was a large print one so I went for the audio from Hoopla. I'm old and my eyes are getting bad but I'm not ready for print that large! I love all the Native American details; the mysteries are secondary to me.

Book No. 83: The Glorious Heresies by Lisa McInerney. 3.9 stars.

"There's a shadow on you," said Maureen. "Dripping black and miserable. It was there when I opened the door. I knew you didn't want to come in and that you hadn't a clue what you were supposed to be doing and that some sanctimonious prig had convinced you that you had something to atone for. You either need to accept the past as the building blocks that brought you right up to today, or you need to be a better liar. The world is full of girls like you." (145)

Maureen speaks with the wisdom and bluntness of her 59 years and experience of having her out-of-wedlock baby taken from her and being banished from her Cork, Ireland, home to London. Young Jimmy tries to make amends by bringing her back home setting her up in one of the closed-down brothels he owns. They have a love-hate relationship but she knows who to call when there is an intruder and she knocks him in the head with her Holy Stone. This unintentional killing leads to a tangled web of cover-ups and further mayhem among several of the seedier residents of Cork whose lives of crime and poverty interact in strange ways.

I usually don't enjoy books filled with sex and swear words. However, they were an integral part of life for the mobsters, alcoholics, drug dealers, and prostitutes who were the focus of this debut novel. This is a book about morality, although most of the compassion and forgiveness comes from those who have sinned rather than the saints of the Catholic church or religious cults. Much of the tragic comedy comes from the "religious" vignettes: ''Oh, Father. I know I'm sorry. What about you? Bless me, Ireland, for I have sinned. Go on, boy. No wonder you say Holy God is brimming with the clemency; for how else would any of you bastards sleep at night?''

This is a messy book. There are many scenes where I wanted to turn my head yet, despite the occasional repulsion, I found I cared for the underlying problems that gave these afflicted characters little hope to better themselves. It is sad to read how much pain we can inflict on our fellow man and how much pain society as a whole should feel more responsibility for. Thank you, Ms. McInerney, for showing us the humanity of people struggling to survive the spiral of child neglect, drug abuse, and the myriad effects of deteriorating communities.

Donna, I checked my library and they have Miss Jane now! However there is just one copy and I'm about 5th in the queue, so I'll be waiting a little while for it.

Great review of The Glorious Heresies. I picked it up in the book store last summer, and the sex and swear words turned me off. But perhaps after reading your review I''ll give it another thought. Once again, my library does not have even one copy.

Thumbed. Such a lovely cover compared to the Orange cover I have seen in the bookstores.

>103 Donna828: I think I'll skip that one armed with the knowledge of it being filled with sex and swear words.

Donna, thumb up for a wonderful review of The Glorious Heresies. A messy book, indeed. But a necessary one, I think, as you've alluded to here: Thank you, Ms. McInerney, for showing us the humanity of people struggling to survive the spiral of child neglect, drug abuse, and the myriad effects of deteriorating communities.

>103 Donna828: Excellent review, Donna. That one needs to climb back up my TBR list. I haven't seen that cover version of the book either which is very fetching.

Hi, Donna. Just catching up after being away. It was a busy time full of people to see and we indeed did not get east of Topeka. One of these days...

Wow! Lot of great reading (aka book bullets) here! Appreciate that you listed (@ 52) the National Book Award Longlist. I've only read one of them - Paulette Jiles News of the World. To me, it seemed like a feather-weight compared to her other books, though I did enjoy it. Miss Jane is now on hold at my library. I'm going to have to be another one to skip The Glorious Heresies. But excellent, thumb-worthy reviews, all!

>103 Donna828: outstanding review, Donna -- thumbed! I liked this book too.

Great review of The Glorious Heresies, Donna, and another thumb from me. I'll probably resume reading it this weekend.

>104 vancouverdeb: Deborah, I'm glad you are in line for a copy of Miss Jane. I probably wouldn't have read The Glorious Heresies if it hadn't been an Early Reviewer book I requested. The sex acts and vulgar language was offputting at first but it wasn't gratuitous so I just powered through and ended up liking the book. Thanks for the thumb!

>105 thornton37814: That is why I put the disclaimer in the review, Lori. There are so many wonderful books out there that aren't offensive. I guess I'm old enough that stuff like that doesn't bother me as much as it used to IF it fits the story. But then I don't go out of my way to read it either if I know a book is going that route.

>106 lit_chick: Thank you for the thumb, Nancy. I can see why it won the Bailey's Prize.

>107 PaulCranswick: I like that cover, too, Paul. It's funny that I changed it to the garish yellow copy I actually read but the prettier one remained on my thread. I'm not a purist when it comes to matching the book to the cover. I know that really bothers some people but I enjoy seeing the different covers--and it's what is between those covers that is most important.

>108 ronincats: I'm glad you had a nice visit with family in Kansas, Roni. As you say, one of these days we'll get together again.

>109 countrylife: Cindy, I am waiting for my copy of News of the World. I guess you've heard by now that is was chosen for the short list and that Miss Jane didn't make the cut…darn it.

>110 lauralkeet: Thanks, Laura! I've been away from your thread far too long. Just not spending as much time on LT as I used to.

>111 kidzdoc: I hope you like it, Darryl. It was probably difficult to concentrate on reading while you were having so much fun with your meetups and going to plays, etc. in London and Paris. Now you're back and hurricane watching, although I'm sure you are not too affected in Atlanta.

Book No. 84: Heart Earth by Ivan Doig. 4 stars.
My Review:

Ivan Doig was surprised by his inheritance from his Uncle Wally in 1986. The packet of letters written by his beloved mother, Berneta, to her youngest brother in the last year of her short life was now his, 41 years after her death. They were the link to his past that he barely remembered--his fifth year of life lived in the Arizona desert and on a sheep ranch in Montana. Berneta died in the wee hours of Ivan's 6th birthday of an overworked heart due to her frequent and severe asthma attacks. No one in the family ever "got over" her death. Ivan's memories were sketchy but he wrote that the family was "pierced by my mother's death in the mountain cabin." The letters gave him details of their everyday life so he could piece together their last year and write this wonderful tribute to his mother.

I can't imagine receiving such a touching gift. In reading his mother's words, Ivan discovered where his love for writing came from. He cleverly used this window to his past by quoting both from the letters and from the logbook of the destroyer USS Ault where Uncle Wally served in the last years of WWII. The juxtaposition of war stories and ranch stories was jarring, but it added context to Doig's early years. For those of us who read and loved This House of Sky, Doig's memoir of his later childhood, this prequel gives us a better understanding of Ivan's closeness to his mother.

The winter the young Doig family spent in Arizona was so interesting. Ivan's father proved he would do anything for his young wife. Berneta writes to Wally: I always thought a desert was just nothing, but I have changed my mind. It is really beautiful here, in the desert way… When the young family's desert experiment was over and they returned to Montana, they all learned that this would be their forever home..."What can account for my mother's high spirits at being back in that drafty mousy attic of Montana, the mile-up-and-then-some Big Belt country where sour winter stayed on past the spring dance? …Earth and Heart don't have much of a membrane between them. Sometimes decided on grounds as elusive as that simple transposable h, this matter of siting ourselves. Of a place mysteriously insisting itself into us." (Pg. 80)

Do yourself a favor and spend an afternoon or evening reading this remarkable book by and about a beloved Montana author.

Hi Donna, I loved your review of Heart Earth! Reading it, along with This House of Sky, add such depth and understanding to his novels and young male characters.

>99 Deern: >102 Donna828: I also thought the first Montalbano book was a bit rough, as you say. I always thought it had something to do with the translation. I love the series now though!

>112 Donna828: I try as much as possible to match the cover that I have to the book I have catalogued but you are right, Donna, it is what is between those covers that really counts.

Have a lovely weekend.

>17 Donna828: wow, that sounds like a fascinating book. You have a high-brow book club. My book club wouldn't stand for that type of book, I don't think ;)

>85 Donna828: ooooh, that is a pretty cover. Always a suck for a pretty cove :)

Ohhhh, Ivan Doig has been another LT gift for me, Donna. Thanks for yet another superb review. And onto the list ...

Great review of Heart Earth, Donna. It goes on the list.

I just picked up News of the World from the library. It's a little book. I'll read it when I finish my current library reads.

Hi Donna! Wonderful reviews! Hope you had a great weekend.

>115 Copperskye: I definitely think Doig's two memoirs should be read together to form a more complete picture, Joanne. I'm glad I still have a few of his novels to read. As you say, I understand his male characters as I can see how they are influenced by his upbringing. And I do look forward to more Montalbano books. Life is good these days!

>116 PaulCranswick: The weekend is going great, Paul. Cool temps and lots of sunshine just the way I like it.

>117 LovingLit: Hi Megan! I don't know about high-brow but our book club is composed of very serious readers. We discussed When Breath Becomes Air a few days ago. I didn't report on it because I read the book several months ago. It was another deep book and we had an in-depth and enlightening conversation about it.
I was sad that Miss Jane didn't make the cut for the NBA short list. Such a good book. Peacocks had a very interesting role in it…

>118 lit_chick: Yay for Ivan Doig love and LT! This memoir is quite a bit shorter than This House of Sky but just as enjoyable, Nancy.

>119 BLBera: Beth, News of the World will be in my hands someday soon I hope. Kind of glad to hear it is short because I have so many books reserved…for me anyway.

>120 The_Hibernator: Thanks, Rachel. The week end couldn't have been better. We picked up our black walnuts yesterday and my husband will take them to the processor next week when he gets back from Dallas. It's a cash crop that just takes a few hours of backbreaking labor to harvest--and it's right in our front yard. They have to be picked up anyway before we can mow. Today was a day of rest…and LT. I am trying to catch up but it's impossible!

Book No. 85: Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit by Jeanette Winterson. 3.9 stars.

"'There's this world,' she banged the wall graphically, 'and there's this world,' she thumped her chest. 'If you want to make sense of either, you have to take notice of both.' " (32)

This may be the most sensible advice young Jen's mother ever gave her. Too bad she didn't practice what she preached. I'll just call the protagonist J in this semi-biographical book. J was adopted by her Fundamentalist Christian mother because she wanted to mold her into becoming a missionary. J went along willingly studying the Bible so she could excel in the frequent Bible quizzes at her church and even taking her turn at delivering the message on Sunday when she was older. Her whole life was God and the church because that was all her mother allowed. J was not even sent to school until a court order forced her mother to let her go to the 'Breeding Ground.' Much of the humor comes from J's holy-roller interpretations of her assignments which were not well received by her teacher, Mrs. Virtue. I am not making this stuff up!

J was bright and naturally curious about the world and soon learned that her mother wasn't quite all there and based her answers on what she found in the laws of the Bible. When she entered puberty, her mother instructed her not to give into 'Unnatural Passions' but J was clueless as to what that might mean until she had her first sexual attraction. This is where the "fun" ends. It was disturbing to see Pastor Spratt shouting at her in front of the congregation for her to repent. All she wanted to do was to love God and to love her friend but apparently there was only one road to heaven. J turned to the fantasy world to try and make sense of her life. She lost me a bit here but I certainly understand that her righteous and unforgiving mother was going to be no help to her.

This is a memorable coming-of-age story, one that I wished I had read slower to get the full meaning. It is going back on the shelf to be revisited both for the brilliant writing and for the deeper meaning behind the words.

>43 Donna828: Wow, time is passing quickly. I hope she likes the Kindergarten. I had a good start with my first graders. It's a lovely troup. I was absent several weeks on LT. RL was very busy but I try to do better in the future.
I wish you a wonderful start into the new week.

Hi, Donna! Good review of Heart Earth. Never heard of this Doig. Sounds like a winner.

Good review of Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit. I have wanted to read this one, since I read and loved her terrific memoir. I NEED to move it up the stacks.

Ooh, I want to read News of the World too. sounds like my cuppa.

Hi Donna! I have a hold on the Overdrive audio of Homegoing. And I will keep an eye out for the Doig memoir. It sounds like my kind of book!

>112 Donna828: I agree, I don't care for gratuitous sex acts and vulgarity, but if it serves purpose, then I am okay with it. My family is just like yours - we are still eating our 1970's broccoli casserole at Thanksgiving, Easter and Christmas. I like brussel sprouts, but not the rest of my family.

Hi Donna, have you read Why Be Happy When you Could Be Normal?? It's a memoir and I liked it a lot more than Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit.

>127 Copperskye: you beat me to it. I liked them both. The novel was surprisingly true to the author's life.

>85 Donna828: Ooooo 4.5 stars for Miss Jane! Although it didn't may the short list, I have it home from the library and hope to get to it soon but first The Association of Small Bombs and News of the World. Oh my gosh! Keeping up with the awards is becoming a full time job!

>123 Ameise1: That picture is so pretty, Barbara. Our leaves are just beginning to turn. Our fall color should peak near the end of the month. I love this time of year! Haley loves Kindergarten. I hope she maintains her enthusiasm for school. I'm glad your class is off to a good start, too.

>124 msf59: You need to read Heart Earth, Mark. I gives even more depth to our dear departed friend, Ivan Doig. You sound like me. I want to real all the shiny new books. My old ones look drab in comparison.

>125 cbl_tn: Carrie, there are a lot of characters to keep straight in Homegoing. I hope you are a good listener. My listening skills have improved so much since I started listening to books. I was hopeless at first and had to keep restarting books. They are a permanent part of my reading life now.

>126 vancouverdeb: You just named one of the staples that will be on our table at either Thanksgiving or Christmas. It's my youngest son's favorite "vegetable" -- well, I do put lots of broccoli into that yummy rice and cheese mixture!

>127 Copperskye: I haven't read Winterson's memoir yet, Joanne, but I've heard good things about it from my LT Peeps and it is firmly on the wish list. Thanks for the mention.

>128 lauralkeet: Thanks, Laura, I thought "Oranges" was a memoir until I looked at the copyright page! Now I have the real deal to look forward to.

>129 Carmenere: You are doing a great job of reading the prize-nominated books, Lynda. Keep up the good work! I had "Association" checked out of the library but ran out of time… So sad that Miss Jane didn't make the cut. It is just a good story told in a straightforward manner, probably not exciting enough for the judges.

Thanks for all the visits! I have had a busy week and will have an even more hectic week coming up. My Denver family is coming out for a quick visit so my daughter and her family will come down from Kansas City. We'll have Haley and Molly here for a sleepover or two with their cousins. I can't believe all six grandchildren will be here at the same time next week end! Can you say Happy Gram?????? I think Grandpa is happy, too!

Book No. 86: Trapeze by Simon Mawer; audio by Kate Reading. 3.5 stars.

Marian is still a teenager when she is "discovered" by the British secret forces because she is a native French speaker. Recruited to join the French resistance, this immature young woman is soon immersed in boot camp, learning how to jump out of airplanes and how to kill a man if necessary. Loosely based on the women who worked undercover during WWII, it was a good adventure story despite her worries about boyfriends in the midst of war. I am not crazy about books that leave the reader hanging on the proverbial cliff, either. In this case, however, I had the print book waiting for me so I could continue with Marian Sutro's story without a pause.

Book No. 87: Tightrope by Simon Mawer. 3.5 stars.

I had hoped to like this book a little better now that Marian has matured. In fact, she is in her 80s and telling of her part in the cold war to a family friend whom she could trust. The voice switches were a little confusing at first and I really didn't buy into Marian's connection with Sam, the son of one of her good friends. The espionage part was pretty good once I figured out there were double (and maybe even triple) agents involved. I think this one is the conclusion of the Marian Sutro books. It's a good thing because this book had the worst ending I've read in awhile. At least cliffhangers are exciting! My advice is to read The Glass Room by Simon Mawer. The plot was more original and much more interesting. Marian may have matured but she was still juggling her boyfriends in the second book.

Not seen those two books around Donna but I am not convinced I'll add them. Sounds like an inferior but drawn out version of Charlotte Gray.

Have a great weekend.

How wonderful to have all grands at your place, Donna. Enjoy it.
Happy Sunday.

Thanks for those reviews of the two Mayer novels, Donna. I bought Trapeze after I read and adored The Glass Room, but I haven't read it yet, and I haven't purchased the sequel. Neither book is calling out to me.

Hi Donna. I love following you in the Fitbit friends group. You're doing a great job of getting in your steps!

Exactly, like Darryl, I purchased Trapeze after reading and loving The Glass Room but I haven't gotten around to reading it yet.

Have a great week!

>136 EBT1002: Yikes, that reminds me to get my fitbit charged up and to charge up the table in November.

Have a lovely weekend, Donna.

So, have you survived the grandchildren avalanche?

>133 PaulCranswick: I think you're right, Paul. Both books covered things that have been written about before. They were in my good but not great range. Last week end was spent shampooing carpeting and this week end was the payoff with a fun family time. All six grandchildren were under our roof for the first time in almost two years!

>134 Ameise1: I sure did enjoy my grands, Barbara. Hope will be here for a few more days and Molly and Haley will be in and out.

>135 kidzdoc: Darryl, I think I was in the mood for a little WWII espionage but the two more recent Mawers I read did not compare in depth and originality to The Glass Room.

>136 EBT1002: I am so haapy to be in the fitbit group, Ellen. I'm pretty self-motivated but it's fun knowing that there are others out there in the quest to get more exercise. Happy stepping!

>137 PaulCranswick: I've been wondering where you are, Paul. I put in a friend request and havent heard from you. At least I think I did. I've only had my fitbit two months now and it's been a life changer. I do understand, though, that it is sometimes difficult to find the time and energy to it. I kind of struggled today after a very busy day with the kids.

>138 ronincats: Avalanche is a good word, Roni. I can't believe how quiet the house has been since late afternoon with one 2-year-old around. The kids were all on their best behavior and the young ones enjoyed the attention from the two oldest girls. Sadie and Audrey took over much of the time so the grown-ups could play a few games and watch a few, too, on Football Sunday. These visits never last long enough! Thanks for asking.

Book No. 88: Dry Bones by Craig Johnson. 3.7 stars.

"Dinosaurs walked the face of the earth for approximately 165 million years, whereas we have been here for only two hundred thousand. To put that in context, if the dinosaurs had been here a week, we would have been here for only the last two minutes. And yet for all their longevity, they were gone, and no one really seemed to know why." (118)

When a dinosaur skeleton named Jen is discovered in Absaroka County, Wyoming, the citizens want to keep her in the region despite the many museums around the world who would love to have such an artifact. Then there's the pressing matter of who killed Danny Lone Elk who owned the property where Jen was found. There is much going on here including a family crisis for Sheriff Longmire which makes for a quick good read. This series continues to entertain.

Thanks for another great Longmire review, Donna!

>139 Donna828: I loved The Glass Room. What a great story.

Glad to read that you had a perfect time with the grands, Donna. Happy new week.

All caught up with you, Donna! I need to put my Fitbit back on - I took a bit of a break just to not obsess about it, but I think I am ready for a return soonish. You are reminding me that I have two Mawers on my shelves - Trapeze and the Glass Room. Sounds like maybe I should start with Trapeze so I won't be disappointed when it doesn't live up to The Glass Room. Heh.

Hi Donna - I have been sick so have fallen behind on steps. I feel better so will get back on the wagon.

Nice comments on the Longmire.

Hello out there! Our family has left and the house is way too quiet again. Hope and her family left midday on Friday. I had lunch with friends that day and came home to collapse. The only thing that could get me out of the house on Saturday was half-price day at our Fall Library Book Sale! I found nine Michael Connelly books for DH and a few for me as well.

>141 lit_chick: Thanks, Nancy. I didn't want to say too much and give away details on Walt's family crisis. I'm sure that story line will continue in the next book.

>142 Ameise1: I thought The Glass Room had a unique story and was well-written, Barbara. My week was spent with 2-year-old Hope. Molly spent one day and night with us but Haley was sick so couldn't come over. She probably wouldn't have anyway because of all-day Kindergarten.

>143 Crazymamie: I like your plan for reading the Mawer books, Mamie. I think Trapeze could be read as a stand-alone, but it is the sequel to Tightrope. One would think I had been reading about a circus with those titles! I was able to get my 10,000 steps in each day this week with ease because Hope and I were pretty active. The weather has been unseasonably warm and we were able to get in lots of outside activity.

>144 BLBera: Sorry to hear you've been ill, Beth. I am so far behind on threads. I am also behind on my reading! It was worth it to have a week's worth of Hope and a weekend with ALL of the grandkids. I enjoy the Longmire series very much even though I am quiet in the group. Regarding the Fitbit, I am going to be the tortoise of the group….slow and steady. I hope I don't get sick because I love to see the monthly graph with my goal achieved every day. I missed one day in September and was crushed. Haha.

Our family celebrated the recent wedding of my great-nephew Josh. He and Katie had a beautiful wedding in Ireland earlier in the month. Too bad no one was invited! We did get to see an awesome video at their reception on October 22.

Here is the only photo we got of our family.



Molly and Haley like to party!


My older grandchildren are growing up! Sadie (14), Griffin (8), Audrey (12)
Yes, that's a Christmas tree behind them. We had Christmas for Hope while they were here!

You have a beautiful family, Donna. Thanks for sharing.

Beautiful family photos!

Love the family photos, Donna. Molly and Haley look like naturals. But I'm disappointed you don't have a good one of Hope in this set!

Thanks for sharing those beautiful pictures of a beautiful family, Donna! Sadie reminds me of Kaitlyn...they're both beautiful young ladies!

What a beautiful family, Donna! How lovely to have grandchildren! Perhaps one day for me - maybe in a couple of years I'll have one? My husband is keen on the Longmire series, like you. He enjoys the family / character arc I think. I've currently got him trying a Scandi Crime, A Conspiracy of Faith by Jussi Adler-Olsen. I've enjoyed the series too, but why he chose the third in the series, I don't know.

What adorable family photos Donna! Congrats on the wedding!

Beautiful family photos, Donna. My, I'll say your grandchildren are growing up!

>146 Donna828: Love the photos! You have a beautiful family. I can't believe how grown up the grandkids are getting. Has it really been that long?

Happy Sunday, Donna. Love the family the photos. The grandchildren are gorgeous.

Sorry the reading has been limited. Got anything interesting going? Dumb question?

>147 BLBera: Thank you, Beth.

>148 ChelleBearss: Chelle! Thanks so much.

>149 ronincats: I just happen to have a few Hope pics. Stay tuned, Roni.

>150 Nancy618: Thank you, Nancy. I think Sadie and Kaitlyn could be friends if they ever spent time together. That might be difficult with one in KC and one in Texas.

>151 vancouverdeb: Deborah, my husband does the same thing with series. He is currently reading the Harry Bosch books by Michael Connelly. So far he's read No. 1 (good for him) and No. 12 or something like that. I buy them at used bookstores and book sales and put a post-it note on the front cover with the sequential number on it…but he goes by the title. Go figure.

>152 The_Hibernator: Thanks, Rachel.

>153 lit_chick: They sure are, Nancy!

>154 nittnut: It doesn't seem that long, Jenn, but I think the same thing when I see the pictures of your children.

>155 msf59: Hi Mark. I just finished the latest Louise Penny book. Have you read any of them? Three Pines might be a little tame for you. I started Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk for my book group later this week.

Some Hope pictures for Roni. She is growing up, too.


Trying to get Lucky to play.


Waiting for Story Time at the library. I told them to sit and be quiet!

Book No. 89: A Great Reckoning by Louise Penny. 4.1 stars.

"…maps are magic…They've become so mundane we've forgotten that. They transport us from one place to another. They illuminate our universe. The first maps were of the heavens, you know. What the ancient could see. Where their gods lived. All cultures mapped the stars. But then they lowered their sights. To the world around them." (193)

I like Louise Penny's books about Armand Garmache and the Surete du Quebec. He has come out of retirement as Chief of Homocide to take the Headmaster role of the Academy for new recruits. The education of these young people has been adequate but their attitudes have become harsher, even verging on cruelty, in recent years. Garmache is determined to find out why. There are some surprises along the way and, yes, another murder to solve.

It is refreshing to return to Three Pines and relax by the fireplace with familiar characters. Ruth is still a hoot, if perhaps a bit over the top. I like the comfort of these books but they are not what I would call cozy mysteries. I always have to grit my teeth reading all of those sentence fragments until I get used to her writing style. Be sure and read the Acknowledgements wherein Ms. Penny openly talks about how difficult it was to write this book while caring for her much loved husband, Michael, who died recently, a victim of Alzheimer's Disease. Granted, she had help, but she is the one who put him to bed every night and got him up every morning and assured him that he was loved. Very affecting.

>157 Donna828: Waiting for Storytime is adorable. Sort of anticipation mixed with a desperation to talk and play.

This is the 1000th post on your threads this year Donna. Your Grandkids have slowed down your posting a bit but they sure look worth it!

Love your family photos, Donna! The party girls are adorable! Those kiddos sure do grow up fast, don't they?

And Lucky made an appearance! Good boy, Lucky!

I'm also reading A Great Reckoning. I'm only about half way through so I'm skipping reading your thoughts until later. So far, I like it a lot! (But then I expected to!)

Have a great week!

Nice to have you back here on LT! Adorable pictures, as always, of the family :)

>146 Donna828:, 157 Great-looking family, Donna! I love the one of the two girls being quiet in the library. :-)

I like the Gamache series, too. I'm glad you had a good time with A Great Reckoning. I read enough sci-fi and mysteries that I must be numbed to sentence fragments; I've seen others say they struggle with her use of those, but they've never bothered me. Maybe the increased use of sentence fragments has to do with our faster-paced times?

The difficulty hers sometimes pose for me is the implausibility, from my POV, of some of the plots and plot twists in her stories. But I enjoy all the characters, especially Gamache and Reine-Marie, and the locales, so much that I decided I don't give a hoot about any implausibility.

Donna, excellent review of A Great Reckoning, and thanks for that! Gamache has pondered the changing attitudes of new recruits in previous novels, so this sounds like an great read. Reminds me of real life, too, sadly: The education of these young people has been adequate but their attitudes have become harsher, even verging on cruelty. The book's acknowledgements sound very moving; Alzheimer's is such a desperately sad disease.

> Good morning, Donna. I hope all is well with you.

>157 Donna828: The kids are cute. I spend a lot of time at the library. I take my kids almost every weekend. But, I have never taken them to a story time. This probably because I like doing story time with them so much. We just started a nicely done version of Jason and the Argonauts.

Those photos of your family are fabulous, Donna! Thanks for sharing them with us.

Thank you, Donna. I always remember how tiny Hope was at birth and consider her somewhat of a miracle.

>159 PaulCranswick: Paul, thanks for alerting me to my 1000th post. I'm glad it was you, the keeper of our stats. The Story Time picture cracks me up! Those girls were so much fun together, although Molly has told me twice now that she liked Hope better when she was a baby!

>160 Copperskye: Haley and Molly have fun wherever they go and were in a most festive mood at the wedding reception. I hope you like A Great Reckoning as much as I did, Joanne. Three Pines is still my favorite literary place to visit.

>161 brenpike: Thanks, Brenda! We are finally in Joplin Meetup Month!

>162 jnwelch: Joe, I am like you in forgiving Ms. Penny a few things because she weaves a marvelous sense of place into her somewhat convoluted plots. I always look forward to the end of August and another book by her.

>163 lit_chick: That was a great point about real life being repeated in the Gamache books. Sad but true. I don't see how LP was able to focus on writing with her husband's descent into dementia.

>164 brodiew2: Brodie, I take Molly to Story Time for another opportunity to listen and follow directions as well as have a good time with books. It is something we look forward to doing together. It doesn't hurt that we have our McDonald's or Chick-Fil-A lunch afterward and she can play in their playrooms.

>165 kidzdoc: I enjoy sharing my grands with my friends, Darryl.

>166 ronincats: Roni, she is a miracle, isn't she? I'm so grateful that Hope is healthy and happy. All of my grands are special to me, but I will never forget tiny Hope and her fragility.

Book No. 90: Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk by Ben Fountain. 3.8 stars.

"When he died, it's like I wanted to die too." But this wasn't quite right. "When he died, I felt like I'd died too.: But that wasn't it either. "In a way it was like the whole world died." Even harder was describing his sense that Shroom's death might have ruined him for anything else, because when he died? when I felt his sould pass through me" I loved him so much right then, I don't think I can ever have that kind of love for anybody again. So what was the point of getting married, having kids, raising a family if you knew you couldn't give them your very best love?

These are some of the thoughts of 19-year-old Billy Lynn, who with seven other survivors of a much publicized firefight in Iraq, was on a victory tour of the U. S. which he was beginning to see as a "giant mall with a country attached." Everywhere they traveled they were treated as heroes which was ironic, as Billy thought his "victory" was the worst day of his life. Being a hero is exhausting and leads to Billy zoning out and faking his way through the two weeks before he returns to active duty in Iraq.

Most of the action takes place at Texas Stadium in Irving where Billy has never been despite growing up an hour away in a small Texas town. It is Thanksgiving and the Bravo Squad is being honored by the Texas Cowboys…and the cheerleaders. Billy has matured a great deal in his first few months in the army, but he can't help falling in love lust with the perky Faison, even though he knows it won't be a lasting relationship.

The author has done a good job of portraying the mood of these eight soldiers in all their fear and cynicism. There were glimpses of humor but they were crowded out by the pathos of confused young men being exploited by the media and their fellow countrymen.

>168 Donna828: I really liked Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk, too, Donna. Perfect pick of a quote. Seems to me telling the story the way he does would be tough to pull off, but Fountain sure did.

>168 Donna828: Me too! Billy Lynn's Halftime Walk was humorous and provocative at the same time. I've thought about it often since reading it several years ago. A friend told me a movie is soon to be released, but like with other favorite books, I'm not sure I want to see it :/

Happy weekend Donna!

Hi Donna! Lovely photos of the family, including the great shot of Hope and Lucky.

You remind me that I have had Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk on my shelves for eons; time to read it. Except there are a dozen library books also sitting on my shelves.... Sheesh.

Have a great week!

Donna, what great photos! I especially love the one of Hope and Molly "sitting and being quiet". Too funny! What a delightful bunch you have on your hands.

Thanks for letting me know that Trapeze is not a standalone - I had no idea! I'll see if the library has Tightrope and start there.

P.S. I think you'd like The Poet's Dog. A quick read, and a beautiful one.

Passing through and wishing you a Happy Wednesday!
Thank you again for sharing the family pictures, they always make me (and obviously everyone else) happy! :)

Not reading anything these days, I've quite given up on 2016. I'm glad that there are so many people here like you who get far above 75 books and can balance my embarrassing stats out again.

I have been reading threads this week and not commenting. There is a pervasive sadness around here because of the recent election. I just want to say, I am sorry for all the pain and gloom. America is a great country no matter who is in office. Take time to process the political upset and hope for the best. I plan to keep reading and keep my usual optimistic outlook!

>169 jnwelch:, >174 jnwelch: Hi Joe! Billy Lynn is a book I will be thinking about for quite awhile. The Poet's Dog might end up under one of my grands' Christmas trees! I will have to give it my stamp of approval first, though. Thanks for the recommendation.

>170 brenpike: Brenda, I'm not sure about the movie, either. It is not getting good reviews. One I can recommend is "A Man Called Ove". Nancy and I went to see it last week end and enjoyed it very much. It followed the book and captured the somber humor of a man trying to end his life. It's a Swedish movie with subtitles.

>171 The_Hibernator: Thanks for the good wishes, Rachel. A new week end is here so I'll consider your kind thought doing double duty! The sun is shining and I have no big commitments…just the way I like it!

>172 EBT1002: Ellen, those library books can be both a blessing and a curse. I have more than I can handle right now, especially with the reading week I just had. Maybe now that the election drama is over I can bury my head in some books.

>173 Crazymamie: That picture was my favorite, too, Mamie! They didn't stay that way very long. I sure miss my Hope. I hope you and yours are having a fabulous week end.

>175 Deern: Nathalie, I have only just finished my second book for November. My reading always falls off the last two months of the year, but this is ridiculous. You read so many of the prize-nominations you should get extra credit. Good for you!

Book No. 91: Do Not Say We Have Nothing by Madeleine Thien. 4.1 stars.

"…what was music? Every note could only be understood by its relation to those around it. Merged, they made new sounds, new colours, a new resonance or dissonance, a stability or rupture. Inside the pure tone of C was a ladder of rich overtones as well as the echoes of other Cs, like a man wearing many suits of clothes, or a grandmother carrying all her memories inside her." (189)

I ended up liking this book very much, but I had a few quibbles with it as well. The writing was polished, and I had many flagged quotes to choose from for my lead-in. I chose the one that describes classical music because it was such an integral part of the story of three students attending the Shanghai Conservatory of Music in the 1960s. This was a cruel time in Chinese history when music and other culture was demeaned to the point where it was a punishable offense. That is how Sparrow, a talented composer, ended up working in a factory bringing up his daughter Ai-Ming alone for much of her childhood.

The beginning of the book was kind of a blur of Chinese-Canadian Marie mourning the suicide of her father who had been a concert pianist and having to share her mother with Sparrow's daughter after she escaped the Tiananmen Square massacre. I have a solid memory of those tanks mowing down students seared in my brain as I was a young teen when it happened. I don't want to get into plot details, however, because they were jumbled to the point where I had to draw a story map like I used to teach my 5th-graders to do.
It's enough to say that this book had great potential but it tried to do too much with educating readers about Chinese history and calligraphy as well as higher mathematics and classical music. If you have a background in these topics, the reading might be much easier for you.

I enjoy generational stories and, once I made my flowchart, I began to appreciate what Ms. Thien was doing. She won the Giller Prize earlier this week, and I applaud her accomplishment. She also got me to listen to the Bach Goldberg Variations by Glenn Gould. I wish I was familiar with some of the other music that wove its way through the book. I know a little about Chinese history and appreciate the humanizing of the tumultuous 20th century in China. So, it ended up being a mixed bag for me, but I would recommend it to music lovers and fans of historical fiction. Keep the post-it notes handy to help keep track of all the flitting back and forth in time and continents.

Morning Donna! What an encouraging topper you have posted! I'ml so sad for the LTers who feel most affected but I understand the need to talk it through. Have a wonderful Sunday!

Morning Donna! Happy Sunday! It is a frosty start to the day out there, but plenty of sunshine.

So glad you enjoyed Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk. I really liked that book too and I would like to see it get a wider LT readership.

Good review of Do Not Say We Have Nothing. It is high on my list.

Donna, excellent review of Do Not Say We Have Nothing. Glad you enjoyed, and appreciate your pointing out the quibbles.

HI Donna, Following your thread and all the amazing books you have been reading. Lots to add to my list! Love how you have things listed at the top with ratings and hearts and trophies. Great thread topper with excellent attitude!

Stopping by to tell how much I loved Miss Jane . I'm not even sure how it got on my radar - maybe your review, or I might have had amazon " recommend " it too me. Anyway, what a beautiful story by a very talented author.

Great review of Do Not Say We Have Nothing. I enjoyed it too, but like you, I had to take notes and create a who is who of the characters.

Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk has been on my list for quite a while. I keep looking at it on the library shelf. We even have a copy in Large Print. I should just read it.

Morning, Donna! I like your attitude and I love your thread toppers. Hoping that Thursday is sweet to you.

>178 Carmenere: Lynda, I suspect it may be quite awhile before much of America can accept Trump as President. I am concerned for our country and hope that time will once again heal wounds. It will help if DT can take the high road.

>179 msf59: Hi Mark! Billy Lynn readership may get a boost with the movie release. I don't plan to see it. How about you? Do Not Say We Have Nothing is another winner. I hope you get to it soon. So many good new books out there now. I am suffering from overload!

>180 lit_chick: Nancy, my quibbles were few. I think it would have flowed better for me if I had been able to read it for longer stretches of time.

>181 mdoris: It's good to see you here, Mary. I think the biggest improvement I've done this year is linking my comments to the books read list. That will be helpful to me if I need to reference a book years from now as I don't post as many reviews as I used to. I also have fun with my hearts and trophies!

>182 vancouverdeb: Deborah, I think Miss Jane deserves a few more accolades than it has received. I'm so pleased that you liked it, too.

>183 tymfos: If you do read it, Terri, you can expect lots of profanity. It didn't bother me that much because I suspect that is how many of our young servicement talk. Who could blame them after what they have experienced?

>184 Crazymamie: I tend to accept things I can't change, Mamie. It makes life so much easier. I had a sweet day. I wasn't in last place in bridge and my husband is due home soon from his travels this week to Honduras and Florida. It gets lonely around here when he's gone!

I loved your words of wisdom...."I tend to accept things I can't change. It makes life so much easier". Very, very true, well said!

Book No. 92: The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead. 3.5 stars.

"Sometimes a slave will be lost in a brief eddy of liberation. In the sway of a sudden reverie among the furrows or while untangling the mysteries of an early morning dream. In the middle of a song on a warm Sunday night. Then it comes, always - the overseer's cry, the call to work, the shadow of the master, the reminder that she is only a human being for a tiny moment across the eternity of her servitude.”

Cora is the center of this 2016 National Book Award Winner. She was born into slavery and knows well the hardships. Alone in this world and distrustful of all after being abandoned by her mother Mabel who escaped the harsh plantation life never to be heard from again. Cora has such a bad attitude she loses her cabin and is banished to the Hob to live with the other misfits. It is only her tiny plot of land that gives her hope. The beginning of this book held much hope for me…before it evolved into fantasy when Cora and Caesar ran away and began their lives as fugitives.

I must have been living under a rock not to realize that this book was Alternate History which I loathe. I think I have a glimmer of understanding what Whitehead was trying to do by making the underground railroad a literal thing with secret underground tunnels and strange conductors who knew little beyond their segment of the line. With each stop the journey became more surreal. South Carolina welcomed runaways and found jobs for them only to use their bodies for secret experimentation and North Carolina was free from blacks because they hung them in community spectacles that boggled the mind.. No wonder Cora began to feel that her newfound freedom wasn't free at all. "On the plantation, she was not free, but she moved unrestricted on its acres, tasting the air and tracing the summer stars. The place was big in its smallness. Here, she was free of her master but slunk around a warren so tiny she couldn't stand.”

I was disappointed in the nature of this book and also felt that the writing was choppy and disjointed. Perhaps that was on purpose as well to describe the life of a runaway slave. Like It said, I can understand this book…but I can still be disappointed in the way the author chose to tell this tale of America's dark past.

>187 Donna828: Hi Donna,

I was living under the same rock and took The Underground Railroad at face value for a long time until the light dawned. The writing was also a disappointment to me as I have read many other books about this shameful era of our past that touched me much more.

I hope we are not starting on a new shameful era.

I would like to give a thumbs up for A Gentleman in Moscow. Wonderful writing and an amazing story (fiction) of a man who makes the best of his circumstances. I read half the story and then switched to audio due to traveling. Both were excellent although the audio was especially good.

Excellent review of The Underground Railroad, Donna, and thumb-up. Disappointed that this one didn't hold up better, and I also did not realize it was alternate history. Gah! I'll get to it eventually ... it's on my list.

I haven't read it so can't weigh in except to note it just won the National Book Award for 2016 for fiction.

Good morning, Donna. I hope all is well with you. Excellent toppers. You can never go wrong with Peanuts or peanuts. :-)

>187 Donna828: Your reaction to The Underground Railroad matches my own. There are so many ways to tell the story, that are more interesting and compelling, why revise this piece of our history? I read all the short listed nominees for the National Book Award and this was far from the best, IMHO.

>187 Donna828: Interestingly less than stellar rating for The Underground Railroad that so many others were blew away by, Donna. I don't really mind Alternate History as I am sure that we have all hypothesised the many what ifs of history, but I can certainly understand why others might not care for the genre.

Have a great weekend.

>188 dallenbaugh: It was good to have your company under that rock, Donna. I just finished A Gentleman in Moscow last night and loved it. Comments to follow…

>189 lit_chick: No worries, Nancy, you will probably like The Underground Railroad. My 3.5 rating means (to me) that it is a good but not great book. I do have a bias against most alternate history books and probably would have skipped this one if I had done some proper vetting.

>190 ronincats: Yes, I was excited to be reading it while the award was being announced. I haven't read any of the other longlisted books, although I have Another Brooklyn and News of the World checked out from the library. Thanks for stopping in, Roni.

>191 brodiew2: Brodie, I chuckled at your Peanuts/peanuts pun. I like both very much!

>192 brenpike: Brenda, I appreciate your support for my lackluster comments. It sounds like we are on the same wavelength. I can't wait to see you next week. You are still planning to be in Joplin a week from tomorrow, right? It will be strange not to have Stasia there, but we will find plenty to talk about I'm sure.

>193 PaulCranswick: Paul, the more I think about the book, the more I can see its appeal…to others. I don't know why I have that particular feeling about messing with history since we know history can be skewed by the ones that get to tell about it. *shrugs* I was blindsided by The Underground Railroad but I take full responsibility. I hope your week is going well.

For my LT friends in the USA, have a Happy Thanksgiving this Thursday!
For ALL my LT friends, I enjoy sharing book thoughts with you even when we disagree.
It makes reading a much richer experience joining with others reading and talking about books.
Thank You!

Hi, Donna - Catching up is going to take awhile, but I didn't want to wait that long to say hello. Wishing you and yours a wonderful and Happy Thanksgiving!

Book No. 93: A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles. 5 Fabulous Stars!!!!!

“History is the business of identifying momentous events from the comfort of a high-back chair. With the benefit of time, the historian looks back and points to a date in the manner of a gray-haired field marshal pointing to a bend in a river on a map: There it was, he says. The turning point. The decisive factor. The fateful day that fundamentally altered all that was to follow…

…For most of us, the late 1920s were not characterized by a series of momentous events. Rather, the passage of those years was like the turn of a kaleidoscope. At the bottom of a kaleidoscope's cylinder lie shards of colored glass in random arrangement; but thanks to a glint of sunlight, the interplay of mirrors, and the magic of symmetry, when one peers inside what one finds is a pattern so colorful, so perfectly intricate, it seems certain to have been designed with the utmost care. Then by the slightest turn of the wrist, the shards begin to shift and settle into a new configuration--a configuration with its own symmetry of shapes, its own intricacy of colors, its own hints of design…

So it was in the city of Moscow in the late 1920s.
And so it was at the Metropol Hotel." (173, 174)

Sorry about the long quote. I am so enamored with Amor Towles' writing I could have copied the entire book here, but I'll let you read it for yourself. Read it to see how a man condemned to spend the rest of his life in one building can not only adapt but thrive. Granted, the Metropol Hotel was a grand place, but to never be able to step outside its doors (for 32 years) and maintain both sanity and civility, is quite an accomplishment.

Alexander Rostov, the unrepentant aristocrat who begins his house arrest in 1922, views the events of Russia's big change from an agrarian society to a world power with curiosity and humor against the backdrop of the Kremlin while enjoying exquisite meals and fine wine. It's amazing what can be seen from the lobby of a hotel. Count Rostov notes changes in literature, music, and fashion along with keeping an ear tuned to the political situation which was on everyone's mind and openly discussed in the comforts of the hotel. The supporting characters were a compelling cast of children, staff members, cultural icons, and the Russian bigwigs who commandeered the services and conveniences of The Metropol. Count Rostov interacted with all of them with the grace and charm of his upbringing and his love for country and the people in it.

I don't give many 5-star ratings; however, this is a book I could read over and over again and still be under the spell of the Count and his entourage. Most heartwarming was his relationship with his adopted daughter who gave him purpose in life and made him an even better man. There was so much warmth and love in this book juxtaposed with some of the horrors of living under a Bolshevik regime that it kept my interest piqued from beginning to end. I loved this book!

>196 Storeetllr: Thanks, Mary. I was sad to read on your thread that you are considering a move away from Denver. Think of your bird friends and how much they will miss you…not to mention your LT meet-up friends! Take care and have a restful Thanksgiving.

So glad to hear that you loved A Gentleman in Moscow as much as I did! I'm already looking forward to whatever Amor Towels comes up with next!

>197 Donna828: I've never read Towles but I had read some good things about this book and now your 5 star rating really has my attention!

I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving, Donna!

>197 Donna828: Wow! A five star rating! Can't wait to read it for myself . . . Off to Amazon to order :)

>197 Donna828: A Gentleman in Moscow has received a lot of good press here and on podcasts I follow. I usually worry about hype but reviews from credible sources (I'm looking at you here) make a big difference. I'm tempted.

Hi, Donna.

Thanks for the heads-up on A Gentleman in Moscow. That's a new one for me. I just started The Underground Railroad, and so far I'm liking it.

Hi Donna - I just finished A Gentleman in Moscow and absolutely loved it. I think it will have been my number one read for the year. Your review was perfect! I read Rules of Civility and was not at all enthused so I approached this new one with a fair amount of trepidation. I listened to it on audio and the narration was excellent; I'm going to buy a copy as I'm certain there's a reread in the my future!
Hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Hi Donna - I always find your comments thoughtful and enjoy reading them. I loved The Underground Railroad, but you really make your case as to why you did not.

I will definitely look for A Gentleman in Moscow; it sounds wonderful.

Happy Thanksgiving to you.

A Gentleman in Moscow had not appealed to me at all, Donna, but I'm thinking I should give it a chance!

Have a great Thanksgiving!

Good morning, Donna! I hope all is well with you. I appreciate both of these recent reviews. Given the ' 5 fabulous stars', I may have to look into A Gentleman in Moscow.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours, Donna!
Wow a fabulous five stars?! I must have this book in my hands! Oh wait, I did but had to return it unread to the library. I'll certainly try to get it again.

Happy Thanksgiving, Donna! Have a great time with the family!

Sorry, The Underground Railroad fell short for you. It definitely rang all my bells.

Great, glowing review of A Gentleman in Moscow. Big Thumb! I have a nice HB sitting on shelf. Hope to get to it soon.

Too bad you didn't like Underground Railroad. I feel a bit skeptical of it myself, but after all the fantastic reviews I'm going to give it a shot. Hopefully I'll have time next year. My plans are already filled up.

Donna, I am thankful of your presence in the group and for the reliably excellent book reviews. xx

Hi Donna, superb review of A Gentleman in Moscow ... I've put this one on my list and have already checked out library for a copy (yep, we have it, and there are several requests on it already). Thumb-up!

Loving all the cute pictures of family!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

#197 Great review, Donna - I came across this one at an online-booksale recently and wish I had bought it. It's on my wishlist now.

Book No. 94: News of the World by Paulette Jiles. 4.1 stars.

"You can put her in any clothing and she remains as strange as she was before because she has been through two creations…To go through our first creation is a turning of the soul we hope toward the light, out of the animal world, God be with us. To go through another tears all the making of the first creation and sometimes it falls to bits. We fall into pieces…children saw their parents die and then went to live with the people on the other side. When they come back they were unfinished. They are forever falling." (56)

Now this is my kind of book. A rollicking adventure about the return of a 10-year-old white girl who had been captured by Kiowa Indians back to her family in South Texas. Johanna's care was entrusted to a 72-year-old itinerant who read the news at gatherings in the small towns of North Texas for ten cents a head. It was difficult to make a living in the hard times after the Civil War. Johanna did not make his appearances any easier; she was high maintenance. She had been captive for about four years and had completely forgotten the six years of her life that she lived as a white child. She was feisty and was prone to run away any chance she had. Gradually, though, as she got used to "kep-ten", also known as Captain Jefferson Kidd, and his quiet ways, she realized running was futile and learned some English words and how to be helpful on their journey to her home.

I enjoyed renewing some of the Texas history I learned as a young teen living in Central Texas. But, most of all, I enjoyed how the relationship grew between an old man and a young girl as they shared some treacherous times. I've read two other books by Ms. Jiles. She always tells a good story, but this one is my favorite. I wish it had won The National Book Award instead of my #92 book.

>199 Nancy618: Nancy, I read somewhere (apparently not on the Amor Towles' website as I had told you, that he is hard at work on his next book and three teen boys in the 1950s. I eagerly await it, as my unwritten rule is that I have to read at least three books by an author before I can classify him or her as a favorite. I'm pretty certain Amor will make the cut!

>200 Copperskye: It was great, Joanne. I hope you had a great thanksgiving as well. You would like AT I think. I liked his Rules of Civility and adored A Gentleman in Moscow.

>201 brenpike: You won't be sorry, Brenda.

>202 lauralkeet: Always glad to be a temptress, Laura. Just returning the favor!

>203 jnwelch: Joe, I thought the writing in A Gentleman in Moscow was top notch compared to Whitehead. I try not to be influenced by the distasteful (to me) alternate history angle. I may have to read another book by Colson Whitehead to give him the benefit of the doubt.

>204 vivians: Thanks for those Thanksgiving wishes, Vivian. I'm pretty sure A Gentleman in Moscow will be my No. 1 for the year, too. I liked Rules of Civility but not as much. I'm glad he didn't suffer from the 'sophomore slump' that plagues many writers.

>205 BLBera: Beth, you are not alone in your love for The Underground Railroad. It's funny because I can read sci-fi and go with the flow, but when it comes to history, even fictionalized history, I want it to be authentic.

>206 katiekrug: Did you try it and give up, Katie? I will it admit, it does start out slowly and it's one of those quiet, soul-searching books, so I'm afraid its appeal won't be universal. I hope you do give it a chance when you're in a contemplative mood. Maybe after you and Wayne settle in to New York living?

I've read several by Jiles and have loved them all, Donna. I think Enemy Women is still my favorite, but News of the World is close. So, I've read more than three by her, so I guess I can add her to my favorite author list. :)

I imagine you had a wonderful, family-filled Thanksgiving. Any leftovers?

>207 brodiew2: All is well here, Brodie, just keeping busy. I am in the last few hours of listening to The Count of Monte Cristo and will be sad when it ends. I was also sad at the end of A Gentleman in Moscow. I felt like I was saying goodbye to a good friend!

>208 Carmenere: I have had to return several library books unread recently, Lynda. I must do a better job of managing my holds. Check it back out, girl, and read it. It was wonderful.

>209 msf59: Thanks for that thumb, Mark. You will be warbling about that Moscow gentleman after you get it down from your shelf. I will wait until the trade paperback comes out and buy my copy for my permanent library.

>210 The_Hibernator: It is that time to think about next year's reading, isn't it, Rachel? I want to start on the My Struggle memoirs and also to read A Suitable Boy. It's a behemoth and I will have to start over after already reading several hundred pages. My memory isn't that great anymore, darn it. I'll also be tagging along as you read the Bible. I may try The Messenger version to spice things up a bit. lol.

>211 PaulCranswick: Thanks, Paul, I appreciate that thought…and you!

>212 lit_chick: Another thumb! Thanks, Nancy. I'm glad your library has A Gentleman in Moscow. I look forward to your thoughts on it.

>213 ronincats: Hi Roni. Thank you for your reading turkey. I like the sentiment!

>214 Berly: I'm glad you like my family pics, Kimbo! Hey, that was a typo, but I'm leaving it. It suits you and your perkiness. I hope you and your family had a wonderful Thanksgiving.

>215 cbl_tn: Carrie, thanks for the good wishes. I am so far behind on threads. I'm about to head out and do some Sunday visiting on LT. I'll start with you and work my way backwards to all my lovely visitors.

>219 BLBera: Almost missed you there, Beth. Enemy Women was my first Jiles. I read it with the Missouri Readers here on LT before we disbanded. Yes, it was good, as was Stormy Weather but I'm a sucker for Indian captivity stories. It still amazes me how much and how quickly the captives bonded with their prisoners. I think the Native Americans were very family oriented and must have accepted their captives as their own.

I didn't cook this year (yay) so no leftovers for us. I usually end up eating most of them by myself anyway. I hope you and your family had a fun and thankful day together.

Woot! Great review of News of the World, Donna. This one is on my list! Love this: Now this is my kind of book. A rollicking adventure ... . That's good enough for me : ).

Hi Donna, just catching up with your thread. You have been busy but still able to keep up your steps. Doing good!

I think I missed dropping by to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving. I hope it was wonderful. :)

>217 Donna828: Another fan of News of the World. I liked it far better than Underground Railroad which ended up winning the Nat'l Book Award. A great story, endearing characters, interesting setting.

Glad you'll be joining on the Bible. I'm really looking forward to it.

Glad you had a fun, easy Thanksgiving holiday this year! I made only one dish - my signature Yams-n-Apple casserole, which is so easy to make it's like no work - so I had an easy day too.

I'll miss my Denver meetup friends too, and my bird friends, but - as the saying goes - all things must end. And, if I end up in NM, it's not that far a drive to the Denver area.

ETA News of the World sounds really good. (Now why, I wonder, did Dickens' David Copperfield pop up as the Touchstone for Jiles' novel?)

You've caught my attention with A Gentleman in Moscow. I think my library has it. It's a challenge -when I put a hold on a book, all 10 books seem to come in at once!

A Gentleman in Moscow caught my attention at the library. Perhaps I'll check it out! Great review!

>222 lit_chick: Thanks, Nancy. Now I know I can shorten my comments without worries. lol

>223 Familyhistorian: Hi Meg, steps are coming harder this week for some reason, but I'm still making sure to get in my 10,000 every day. I hope I can keep it up through the holiday season. Thanks. You are a good role model.

>224 nittnut: It was a good one, Jenn. No cooking for me this year but still plenty of family time. Win-win. I'm glad you're back in the U.S. to celebrate my favorite holiday.

>225 brenpike: Brenda, we need more books with "a great story, endearing characters, interesting setting". News of the World had the whole package. We missed you yesterday!

>226 The_Hibernator: Me too, Rachel.

>227 Storeetllr: I might need your recipe for Yams & Apples, Mary. I'm all about easy cooking! I get why you are moving. Please don't leave without letting me know so I can get out there to give you a goodbye hug. I will be planning a winter trip to Denver soon.

>228 vancouverdeb: That is so true, Deborah. I have had to take several good books back to the library unread recently. It just kills me!

>229 tymfos: Thanks Terri. I definitely suggest you check out and read A Gentleman in Moscow. You won't be sorry.

Book No. 95: The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas. 4.6 stars.

I did it! I finished listening to the almost 47 hours of The Count of Monte Cristo! I enjoyed every minute of it even though it was spread over a seven-week period. Of course I knew the story but the details (and there were plenty of them for sure) were fascinating. The narrator, Jim Lee, was excellent. I will be looking for more recordings by him. I am not going to review it here. It's enough to say I stuck with it and loved it! Besides, I'm getting tired and would like to read some more in The Boys in the Boat for tomorrow night's book group. No bridge game for me tomorrow as I am only at 38% on my kindle book. I thought I had another week…kind of hate it when the first Thursday of the month coincides with the first day of a new month.

Meet-up Day in Joplin, Missouri, yesterday
Our turnout was down to four; several of our longstanding group were unable to attend. They were missed, but I must say, it was still a lot of fun! We have found the perfect mom and pop used bookstore and a restaurant that is so good that we don't even consider going anywhere else. If you ever find yourself in Joplin, be sure and look up The Changing Hands Book Shoppe and then walk the two blocks to The Red Onion. Both locally owned and operated and highly recommended.


Terri (Tloeffler), Nancy (Nancy618), Sandy (smccreary), and me


Terri was so excited to see the same art image that was on the book she just started,
aptly titled The Big Wave.


Anyone remember Stasia? Haha. She is famous for not wanting her picture taken.
She wasn't able to make it this year so we had this photo made just for her!

Yay for meetups! Looks like you all had a blast. (Sorry Stasia and Julia had to miss it this year.)

I'll be moving sometime toward the end of March. Our lease here is up on April 1. Hope you can get out here so we can have one more Denver meetup before I skeedaddle.

>230 Donna828: It is hard to keep going with the steps when it gets dark so early and it is the rainy season here. I can't wait until the days start getting longer and we see sunshine for more than a few minutes.

Great meet-up pictures!

>232 Donna828: Nice to see you at the yearly meet-up, Donna, and you made me smile with the picture for Stasia :-)

>232 Donna828: A small but mighty group of book lovers! I am so sad to have missed it, but clearly a wonderful time was had by all.

>231 Donna828: Yay for The Count of Monte Cristo! Way to hang in there with a long audio, Donna. Sounds like Jim Lee does a great job with it.

>232 Donna828: Love the meetup photos! Looks like you all had a lot of fun. I'm sure Stasia will appreciate the photo/no photo. :-)

So glad you loved The Count of Monte Cristo. I read it a few years ago, all 1400 (or whatever) pages of it. It's one of my desert island books ... and 5*. I should listen to it ...

Great pics! I'm glad you had a good meetup!

Actually, the book is The Great Wave: Gilded Age Misfits, Japanese Eccentrics, and the Opening of Old Japan by Christopher Benfey. A fascinating book so far...

>230 Donna828: >232 Donna828: I missed you all too. I know you had a good time!

Wow! You good job finishing The Count of Monte Cristo. I finished that while moving from MI to OH a few years back - I drove back and forth several times (moving my stuff, getting prepared in OH, and finally moving my cats).

I'm currently reading The Stand which is the same length and feels like it's taking me forever. Tempted to read it on double speed.

Great pictures, Donna! Too bad that Brenda, Stasia and Julia couldn't make it but wonderful to see Terri and Sandy there!

Another wonderful yearly meet up. How I long to join you. I hope next year is possible for me. I'm sorry that Brenda, Stasia and Julia couldn't make it this year. Your photos make me smile! How I love traditions! And, your yearly meet up is quite a wonderful one!

Hello Donna! I hope all is well with you!

>238 lit_chick: Fantastic! I am now in the home stretch on The Count of Monte Cristo! I love it as well. Only 7 discs to go! This book is cementing John Lee as my favorite narrator ever. I have commented on him in my current thread and even given some recommendations.

I like the picture taken especially for me too :) Next year will be the 10th anniversary and I will DEFINITELY be there for that one - even if I have to quit my job, lol.

Love the meet-up pictures! One of these years I hope to be able to join you again. I remember my few trips with such fondness.

Great meet-up photos! I'd love to join you one of these years. I wish Joplin wsn't so far away from me!

>248 cbl_tn: I wish it was a tad closer too!

Have a great weekend, Donna.

>233 Storeetllr: Thanks for the notice on your move, Mary. I will definitely get to Denver before you start your new life. And yes, we did have a blast in Joplin!

>234 Familyhistorian: Hi Meg. These dark days are no fun at all. I'm glad we don't have a lot of rain to contend with but we've had our share of cloudy days. This time of year makes me glad to have a treadmill taking up space in our game room. It's not my favorite way to get the steps in but I've found I can read kindle books on my iPad fairly easily…and then there's always audiobooks that work, too.

>235 FAMeulstee: Anita, we had fun coming up with a clever way to hide our faces!

>236 rosalita: Small but mighty indeed. I hope your illness was short-lived, Julia. Not feeling well doesn't make a long drive any easier. You were smart to stay home and pamper yourself. Next year!

>237 jnwelch: I wish I could have condensed listening to The Count a bit more, Joe. It was easy to keep going because it was such an enjoyable experience. I'm glad you liked the meetup pictures.

>238 lit_chick: Nancy, I listed it as 1,276 pages. Like you, I think it would be perfect for a desert island. If I got tired of reading, I could search for hidden treasure! Jim Lee did a great job of narration.

>239 drneutron: Thanks, Jim. We always have such a good time. Looking forward to having a big turnout next year.

>240 tloeffler: Darn, I messed that one up… thanks for setting the record straight, Terri. It was sure good to see you again.

>241 brenpike: And you were surely missed, Brenda. You will be with us next year. I'm counting on that!

>242 The_Hibernator: I remember when you moved, Rachel, and how much driving you did. The Count would have helped make those miles fly by. I hope the cats enjoyed listening to it, too. The Stand is one of my favorite Stephen King books. I may consider listening to it when I decide to do a reread.

>243 ronincats: Yes, it was, Roni. I hope you show up in Joplin some year, too! We reserve the Tuesday after Thanksgiving as our day to get together. The more the merrier!

>244 Whisper1: That would be a wonderful bonus, Linda. I want to meet you and Joplin would be a fun time for you. It's one of my favorite traditions.

>245 brodiew2: I agree that Jim Lee is an excellent narrator, Brodie. I just wish he had Moby Dick in his repertoire. That may be my Big Book for next year. I'll have to check in with you and see if you have finished yet. It was a memorable experience for me.

>246 alcottacre: Don't quit your job, Stasia. We could move the meetup to Sherman if it came down to that! I would hate to miss the cookies that our accommodating bookstore owner was going to bake for us, but I'd do it for you.

>247 countrylife: Cindy, you and Janice were missed. I know this is a busy time. I do hope you can make it next year.

>248 cbl_tn: Aw, Carrie, we're practically neighbors…just a little bit of Kentucky coming between us! Maybe you and Lori could carpool over to Joplin sometime after you both retire.

>249 PaulCranswick: The week end was a lot of fun, Paul. We went up to Kansas City for Griffin's 9th birthday and lucked into a winning basketball game yesterday morning. After presents were opened, we drove to the Country Club Plaza to see the Christmas lights. It was cold so we didn't spend as much time as I would have liked walking around. Here's a picture of the lights from the internet.

Love the meetup photos. :)

Book No. 96: The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown. 4.5 stars.

"It's a great art, is rowing. It's the finest art there is. It's a symphony of motion. And when you're rowing well, why it's nearing perfection. And when you near perfection, you're touching the Divine. It touches the you of you. Which is your soul." - George Yeoman Pocock (Epigraph)

This book deserves all the praise it has gotten from other LTers. I've had it on my Kindle for well over a year and it finally got read after my book club voted to read it in December. What a wonderful tribute to perseverance and hard work. Rowing is a team effort. Daniel James Brown goes to great lengths to show the reader how important, and how difficult, this can be. The team of rowers from the University of Washington who struggled through the intense training to win the right to represent the USA in the 1936 Olympics in Berlin mastered the synchronicity required to get into the "swing" which moved the shell seemingly effortlessly through the water.

I loved the story of how Joe Rantz overcame the odds of his miserable upbringing to become part of the amazing crew. It was interesting to read about the meticulous care with which George Pocock crafted the boats he made. The coaches and other players had their own stories and then there was the bigger picture of world affairs as World War II was about to erupt. This fantastic book is highly recommended.

>253 Donna828: I saw the PBS program based on the book--so interesting!

>253 Donna828: I loved The Boys in the Boat when I read it. I still think/talk about it often, and recommend it to anyone looking for a good book. Again, compelling story, endearing characters, interesting settings plus interesting information on a range of topics.

>250 Donna828: and yes, I'm counting on Joplin 2017, or Sherman, or wherever . . .

>253 Donna828: Great review of The Boys in the Boat, Donna. Like you, I've had it sitting on my Kindle for a way long time. You're inspiring me to finally get to it.

Hi, Donna! Love all the Meet Up photos. You look like a very comfortable bunch.

Good review of The Boys in the Boat. I am so glad you finally got to it and loved it. It is a very special book. NNF at it's best.

I just skimmed through your thread, but the Charlie Brown/ Peanuts and also the meetup pics made me stop and get strangely sappy and moved and want to send hugs into all the world. So I'm doing just that, hugs are never wrong, especially if virtual and you can't catch my cold! :)

Have lovely week and Happy St Nick's Day today.

>253 Donna828: I read that earlier this year and really liked it. I had no idea I could find a book about rowing so enjoyable. And not just in the sense of saying "even though it's about rowing," but more that I learned a lot about the sport and found it interesting.

I've heard so many good things about Boys in the Boat! Glad you enjoyed it.

> Good morning, Donna! I finished The Count of Monte Cristo! Such a wonderfully rewarding experience.

>254 ronincats: I wish I had watched that, Roni. Maybe it will be repeated.

>255 brenpike: Good plan for next year, Brenda. I have recommended Boys in the Boat to a few people already. I think it would have wide appeal to both men and women.

>256 jnwelch: You won't be sorry, Joe!

>257 msf59: Mark, I am quickly becoming a NNF fan. The ones I've read have been so compelling. Yes, our Joplin crew is a comfortable bunch. We've been meeting so long that we've become good friends.

>258 Deern: Nathalie, I'm so happy I inspired those hugs for the world. Maybe it has to do with this time of year…all that love for mankind flowing around us. My week was good but very busy. Another week is ahead just like this past one…stuff to do each day and not much time for LT or reading.

>259 ursula: Ursula, I found the rowing information interesting, too. Those rowers have to be completely in tune with each other unlike many other sports where one can just grab the ball and take off with it.

>260 The_Hibernator: Thanks, Rachel.

>261 brodiew2: Congratulations, Brodie! It's both a letdown and a feeling of accomplishment when The Count is over. I think I'll be tackling some more long classics I've missed out on by listening to them.

I had a fun experience this afternoon. My friend Nancy and I got to take a sneak peek at the renovations on our neighborhood library. It's coming along nicely and will have a light modern look, but it will also feel like home. The metal shelving looked so sterile with no books on them. I will sure miss the old wooden shelves. I can't wait for the grand reopening on January 7. What a great way to begin a new year!

Book No. 97: For the Time Being by Annie Dillard; narrated by Tabis Gilbert. 4.1 stars.

Wow! I don't even know what to say about this book. I listened to it and as soon as it ended, I reserved a copy from the library. Annie Dillard has a very sharp and inquisitive mind that moves way too fast for me. I need to read it in order to have time to slow down and absorb just what she is trying to say. I think the depth may be beyond me, but I am going to give it my best effort and suspect I will be back here to raise my rating. I'll try to give a brief description…

She starts off with wondering about babies born with defects, then speculates about some of the sights she saw in China, specifically the fields of lifesized terra-cotta soldiers. She ruminates on clouds, dust, and other things in nature and tries to fit it all in with the purpose of life. Deep stuff. I don't recommend listening to it because of the jumping around and fast pace. If the book is as meaningful as I think it is, I plan to buy a copy to go under the Christmas Tree.

Book No. 98: The Spectator Bird by Wallace Stegner; audio by Edward Hermann. 4.2 stars.>

This was another short book with deep thoughts. These ruminations came from the aging Joe Allston who looks back on his life as a literary agent with some regrets. He felt more like a spectator than a participant in life as he helped others reach their full potential. A postcard from a friend propels him to dig out some old journals that recalled the months that he and his wife Ruth had spent in Denmark years before. They lived with a Countess who had fallen from favor through no fault of her own. The narration was excellent and brought to life the gentle grumblings of an older man pondering life.

Both of these sound excellent, Donna! Sounds like For the Time Being would be an excellent choice for under the Christmas tree. I am a huge fan of Stegner but have not yet read The Spectator Bird, and this has to change. *off to library hoping to find the audiobook*

I'm glad you liked The Spectator Bird, too, Donna. I'm sure it worked well on audio!

I really enjoyed The Spectator Bird too, Donna. Stegner can do no wrong!

I loved Spectator Bird, lots of images remain for me! Glad that you liked it.

Ah, I really need to read The Spectator Bird, Donna. I never read Stegner until he popped up in Mark's AAC and I loved the two I've read so far. Nice review!

A Gentleman in Moscow is now firmly ensconced on my wish list, Donna! Mark was warbling about it and your enthusiastic five star rating seals the deal for me.

And I purchased a used copy of For the Time Being last week and now I'm really looking forward to reading it!

And I'm glad you liked The Boys in the Boat. It is a favorite.

You're closing in on 100. :-)

The Boys in the Boat and of course, The Spectator Bird are both high on my list. Hoping I get to them sometime next year. It's been a while since I read a Stegner. It's time. :)

I've been lurking but not commenting for a while. I hope you are well and getting ready for a great Christmas!

>265 lit_chick: I still have several unread Stegner books, Nancy. I am saving them for special treats! Like you, I am a fan and have read most of his better known books. Spectator Bird was different because so much of the action took place in Denmark. I hope you like it.

>266 Copperskye: Joanne, I have you to thank for the push to read The Spectator Bird. I remember looking (and looking) for the physical copy I thought I had. Lo and behold, it was on my long list of Hoopla favorites. I thought the narrator was very good.

>267 lauralkeet: "Stegner can do no wrong!" Well said, Laura.

>268 mdoris: It's one that will stick with me, too, Mary.

>269 rosalita: Thanks, Julia. I know of Stegner long before LT but didn't realize the breadth of his works. I've enjoyed both the fiction and nonfiction I've read by him. And I still have a few in reserve!

>270 EBT1002: Hi Ellen. I closed in on that hundredth book today! It seems to be about the right number for me to reach without any problem even with my late fall slump. Not a full-blown reading slump, just a busy time for me. No more of those unplanned afternoons when I can read for hours at a time. ;-(

For the Time Being is a book I am going to read again…and again. At least I think so. It had so many thoughts to ponder. I may keep it on the nightstand to dip in and out of when I get my own copy. I'll be eager to hear your thoughts on it.

>271 nittnut: Jenn, I've been trying to keep up with you and your move. It sounds like things are going well. Yes, Stegner is an author I want and need to return to over and over again. He is a treasure for sure. Christmas is in the air around here. We've already had an early celebration with Hope and family but the rest of the kids will be here again for more. I try to keep it low-key but that's hard for this Grandma to do. I'll be doing lots of baking in the next two weeks. Can't start too early or we will overindulge!

Book No. 99: The Fallen Man by Tony Hillerman. 3.5 stars.

"At the center of it was the dark volcanic monolith that was now looming ahead of them like the ruins of a Gothic cathedral built for giants. On top of it a metal box was cached. In the box would be another piece to fit into the puzzle of Hal Breedlove."

Hal Breedlove supposedly fell to his death ten years before the time of this story. His death was investigated by Joe Leaphorn and ruled an accident. However, when the remains were discovered new doubts came to light and Jim Chee is now the man who has to put the pieces together. Leaphorn comes out of retirement and they manage to work together to bring a complicated scenario to a harmonious conclusion. Lots of the usual plot twists and descriptions of the stunning scenery. The love lives of both men seem to be stalled…to be continued in another book, at least I hope so. Again, this is a satisfying mystery series set in the southwest. Six more to go!

Book No. 100: Spirit of Steamboat by Craig Johnson. 4.2 stars.

"The fire trucks' emergency lights rhythmically crashed into the plate glass of the observation deck along with a few snowflakes that flew toward my face and then against the outside of the window, the ones that missed the glass avoiding the Durant terminal altogether in a race for Nebraska. I studied the line I'd read over and over in my attempts at distracting myself…'no space of regret can make amends for one life's opportunity misued…'" (18)

Walt Longmire takes this quote from A Christmas Carol to heart as he risks his life to save a young girl who had been severely burned in a car accident. She had to get to Children's Hospital in Denver to receive the medical help she desperately needed. The only problem was the blizzard that had halted all traffic on land and air.

This is a flashback novella taking place on Christmas Eve in 1988. Walt had just taken over from Lucian Connally the duties of Sheriff of Absaroka County, Montana. Lucian, who just happened to have been a first-rate pilot in WWII. And there just happened to be a refurbished antique aircraft available that might be heavy enough to withstand the blizzard. Despite the coincidences, this turned out to be an edge-of-the-seat adventure across the mountains to get help for a child who would otherwise certainly die. It made delightful reading for the Christmas season. I inhaled it in an afternoon of reading and have had a warm fuzzy feeling ever since. Highly recommended for Longmire fans or others who enjoy suspense mixed with a heartwarming story.

Wow, some great reading you've done lately, Donna.

The Boys in the Boat - I'v had that in my wishlist at Audible for a long time - but your review confirmed my thoughts on it - that it would be great.

Dillard and Stegner are both authors I haven't read but have in my TBR. Have a feeling I would love both.

Spirit of Steamboat sounds like an excellent one in the Longmire series, Donna. And a seasonal theme, too : ).

Hi Donna! I'm taking a break from grading finals to catch up on threads. I have A Gentleman in Moscow on my TBR shelf, so I was thrilled to see your 5-star review. I may save it until after the holiday so I can give it my full attention and start 2017 right. And I loved the meet-up pics.

Hi Donna: I have not read Stegner yet, but hope to change that in the new year. The Dillard and The Boys in the Boat are on my list as well.

Congrats on reaching 100.

Well done Donna making it to 100 books again in 2016.

Have a lovely weekend.

100 books! Yay!

>275 ctpress: Hi Carsten. I have a feeling your feeling is right. lol

>276 lit_chick: It may be my only seasonal book this year. I think my copy of A Christmas Carol is in with the Christmas boxes I didn't get out this year. I am going minimalist in my decorations. I remember when I had three Christmas trees to decorate…one for each level. I was much younger when we first moved into this house…

>277 porch_reader: Amy, I think you are wise to give your full attention to A Gentleman in Moscow. I just loved that book.

>278 BLBera: Thanks, Beth. Isn't it great that we will never run out of good books to read? So much to be thankful for…

>279 PaulCranswick: The week end is over, Paul, but the memories remain. My DH was gone (to Florida where it is warm) so Haley got to be my date at Saturday's basketball game. She loved it. We also had a great time at the company Christmas party on Friday. I hope your week end was a good one. They go by too quickly.

>280 The_Hibernator: Thanks, Rachel. The rest is gravy, but I don't think there will be much gravy this year. Busy, busy.

Book No. 101: And Every Morning the Way Home Gets Longer and Longer by Fredrik Backman. 4.2 stars.

"…'We know so little about how the brain works. It's like a fading star right now--do you remember what I told you about that?'

'When a star fades it takes a long time for us to realize, as long as it takes for the last of its light to reach Earth.'"> (28)

If you have ever lost a loved one to Alzheimer's Disease, you will know what a long slow road that decline is. The grandfather in this novella is preparing his beloved grandson for 'the long goodbye'. The conversations between these two are heartwrenching. I read it on the treadmill this afternoon so I was able to distract myself enough to keep from crying. It only takes about an hour to read the book but it is an hour well spent. I read the best advice I ever heard for losing someone you love in this tragic way. Noah asks his father how they can help Grandpa. I agree with his father's simple advice: "We can walk down the road with him. We can keep him company."

I'm glad you liked the Backman book, Donna...especially after I pushed you so hard to read it! ;-)

>282 Donna828: Hi Donna, I happened to pick that one up at the library yesterday. I loved A Man Called Ove but was much less crazy about My Grandmother Asked Me. I will look at it with a lot more interest now that I see both you and Nancy loved it!

Have just requested And Every Morning from the library. Thanks for keeping the recommendations coming, Donna.

Congratulations on reading 100 books, Donna. Glad to hear that Fredrick Backman has a new worthwhile read out. I looked at My Grandmother Asked Me , but it did not look like my " style". I'll keep an eye out for And Every Morning .

Hi Donna! Congrats on reading a whopping 100 books!! That's awesome!
You've read so many good books lately but the one which intrigues me the most is For the Time Being . I do enjoy ruminating at times and will try to squeeze this baby in.

Oh, and the Stenger looks like a good one too.

Congrats on your 101 books!

Your reviews remind me that I I do want to read more Stegner and Dillard.

Good morning, Donna! I hope all is well with you.

Congratulations on crossing 100 books! Quite an achievement.

>174 jnwelch: I love the cover on Spirit of Steamboat. In fact all of the covers of the recent Longmire book are creatively designed.

>282 Donna828: Hi Donna, just put on my wishlist. I love everything he writes. We just lost my mother-in-law about a month ago from Alzheimers and it is a heartbreaking disease...

Hi, Donna! I love following your reads. I am sure I have said that before and I am sure I will mention it again.

I want to read The Spectator Bird. I have it on shelf. 2017 perhaps?

I had a good time with Spirit of Steamboat. Love that Longmire!

Happy holidays, Donna.

>282 Donna828: That sounds like an excellent book, Donna. Adding it to my wish list, which is already out of control.

Happy holidays to you and yours!

Wouldn't it be nice if 2017 was a year of peace and goodwill.
A year where people set aside their religious and racial differences.
A year where intolerance is given short shrift.
A year where hatred is replaced by, at the very least, respect.
A year where those in need are not looked upon as a burden but as a blessing.
A year where the commonality of man and woman rises up against those who would seek to subvert and divide.
A year without bombs, or shootings, or beheadings, or rape, or abuse, or spite.

2017.

Festive Greetings and a few wishes from Malaysia!

Merry Christmas, Donna, to you and yours ...

Happy Holidays to you and your family.

Merry Christmas!!

>282 Donna828: Oh my. That sounds like a heartbreaking but sweet book. I will add it to the pile.

Thank you for your time, your kind words and the books we enjoy together. I hope your holidays are full of joy!

Merry Christmas, Donna!

I am so grateful for visits and holiday wishes from friends. As soon as I can find a little calm among the blizzard of Christmas activities, I'll be more sociable. This is the first year since I've had young children that I was still baking and wrapping presents on Christmas Eve. I may start getting ready for next Christmas in January!

This is the Christmas tree at the end of the Pacific Beach Pier here in San Diego, a Christmas tradition.

To all my friends here at Library Thing, I want you to know how much I value you and how much I wish you a very happy holiday, whatever one you celebrate, and the very best of New Years!

Happy Holidays, Donna :)

Happy Holidays, Donna

Hope you are having a wonderful holiday with the family, Donna! Hugs to my pal.

wishing you and yours a spectacular Christmas week!

Merry Christmas, Donna!

Taking note of the Longmire in >274 Donna828:--thanks!

Hoping you are enjoying the Holiday Season!! Best wishes for a wonderful 2017.

I missed my big Christmas round this year, but am back in time to wish you and your big family all the best for the New Year and a "Safe Slide" (Guter Rutsch) into it! Read you in 2017! :)

Belated Merry Christmas and happy New Year Donna! You hit me with a book bullet for A Gentleman in Moscow.

Hi Donna! Reading A Gentleman in Moscow as the snow falls outside. I am enchanted by both!

Looking forward to your continued company in 2017.
Happy New Year, Donna

I wish you from my heart health, happiness, satisfaction and much exciting read in 2017. May all your wishes come true.


from my hometown Zürich, Switzerland

Happy New Year, Donna!

I have failed miserably with the end of my thread. Caught some kind of evil bug eleven days ago just as I was settling down for the last push towards getting ready for Christmas. I managed to power through and get the important things completed and even to be a somewhat coherent hostess to my family. When they left a few days after Christmas, I collapsed on the sofa and did nothing for two days. I'm gradually able to do some things like laundry and housework but I am ready to call it quits on this thread and move on to the new year.

Thanks to all these lovely people who have visited me in the past week (actually almost two weeks) since I have fallen off the radar:

BFF Nancy, Joanne, Nancy in Canada, Deborah, Lynda, Janet, Brodie, Diane, Mark, Beth, Ellen, Paul, Nancy, Reba, Chelle, Jenn, Mary, Mamie, Roni, Brenda, Barbara, Mark, Lynda, Brodie, Kimberly, Nathalie, Heather, Lynda, Paul, Barbara, Joe.

Some of you visited more than once! I love all of you because as we all know, Book Friends are loyal, considerate, and smarter than average! You guys are the BEST!!!

Happy New Year to All!

Come and visit me over here.