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1CliffBurns
How did October get here so fast?
And a new offering by Le Carre on order from my local library.
Autumn and my reading tastes subtly change--I look for darker, more brooding material.
How about everybody else?
And a new offering by Le Carre on order from my local library.
Autumn and my reading tastes subtly change--I look for darker, more brooding material.
How about everybody else?
2Limelite
Fall is my favorite reading season. Warm days, cold nights -- sunny garden or shady porch reads followed by fireside cozy couch reads.
If the 1918 influenza epidemic, a suicidal Japanese sensei, and the last voyage of the Lusitania are dark subjects. . . .
If the 1918 influenza epidemic, a suicidal Japanese sensei, and the last voyage of the Lusitania are dark subjects. . . .
3CliffBurns
Finishing off A DARK MUSE: THE DEDALUS BOOK OF THE OCCULT.
Author Gary Lachman is today's equivalent of Colin Wilson--he's even written a bio on Wilson.
Author Gary Lachman is today's equivalent of Colin Wilson--he's even written a bio on Wilson.
4Limelite
>1 CliffBurns: What's the title of the new Le Carre? I'm a fan.
5CliffBurns
THE PIGEON TUNNEL--it's a memoir.
6CliffBurns
Reading an historical novel, DICTATOR, by Robert Harris, depicting the last years of the life of Cicero.
Harris and Philip Kerr are my two favourite "fun" reads.
Harris and Philip Kerr are my two favourite "fun" reads.
7Limelite
>6 CliffBurns: I read the first in the "Ancient Rome" series, Imperium, which was fascinating. Have the second volume staring me in the face from my coffee table -- Conspirata. You're ahead of me! Have you already read them?
8CliffBurns
I read IMPERIUM but somehow skipped the middle book.
Ah, well, I know the story.
But Harris is a superb writer of historical fiction.
Ah, well, I know the story.
But Harris is a superb writer of historical fiction.
9mejix
Finished The Aeneid. Has a little whiff of Roman propaganda but it was interesting. The Hades section is very proto-Dante.
Started Carrie by Stephen King last night.
Started Carrie by Stephen King last night.
10iansales
Finished The Golden Notebook, which I enjoyed a lot more than I had been expecting to. Currently reading Iain Banks's Poems.
11BookConcierge
As the Waltz Was Ending – Emma Macalik Butterworth
4****
This is an autobiography / memoir of a young girl growing up in Vienna. The time span covers Emmy from about age six to seventeen. As a child she and her family had a lovely apartment and she enjoyed the city’s many parks and coffee shops where she would get a treat of a rich mocha topped with whipped cream and powdered sugar. Their home was filled with books and music, and she loved to dance. That love of dance led her to become a ballet student at the Vienna Opera’s Ballet School – a world-renowned venue and totally state-supported, but highly competitive. After her first performance, a tiny role as a doll brought to life, she was even more dedicated to training to become the prima ballerina she wanted to be. But she did not foresee how World War II would affect her, her family, and her country.
This memoir is written for a young adult audience. It is very interesting to see how the historic events unfold through the eyes of a child, and how seductive the opportunities promised by the Nazis (summer camps, nice uniforms, trips to Paris) were to the young students they recruited. As the war progresses, Emmy and the citizens of Vienna are subjected to rationing, deprivation and bombings. The book is rated as being for age 12 and older; there are some horrific experiences related here,(students forced to dig out burned and decaying bodies from rubble, assault by Russian soldiers, kidnapping and rape) so it may not be the best book for particularly sensitive youngsters.
4****
This is an autobiography / memoir of a young girl growing up in Vienna. The time span covers Emmy from about age six to seventeen. As a child she and her family had a lovely apartment and she enjoyed the city’s many parks and coffee shops where she would get a treat of a rich mocha topped with whipped cream and powdered sugar. Their home was filled with books and music, and she loved to dance. That love of dance led her to become a ballet student at the Vienna Opera’s Ballet School – a world-renowned venue and totally state-supported, but highly competitive. After her first performance, a tiny role as a doll brought to life, she was even more dedicated to training to become the prima ballerina she wanted to be. But she did not foresee how World War II would affect her, her family, and her country.
This memoir is written for a young adult audience. It is very interesting to see how the historic events unfold through the eyes of a child, and how seductive the opportunities promised by the Nazis (summer camps, nice uniforms, trips to Paris) were to the young students they recruited. As the war progresses, Emmy and the citizens of Vienna are subjected to rationing, deprivation and bombings. The book is rated as being for age 12 and older; there are some horrific experiences related here,
12BookConcierge
A Few Fair Days – Jane Gardam
4****
Lucy is a young girl living in a small, seaside town in Yorkshire, in the years between the wars. She has a best friend, Mary, who joins her on various adventures, though they are sometimes accompanied by Lucy’s little brother, Jake. And she has many aunts to alternately indulge, entertain and scold her.
This is a charming collection of stories about childhood, and reminds this reader of our greatest and most valuable plaything – imagination. I loved how they played pirates, explored the abandoned estate next door (venturing all the way up to the attic, when her mother thought they were only in the garden), or searched the seashore for “treasure.” And my favorite mishap has to be the trip to buy a special cake, which is to be a parting gift for a guest. I laughed aloud at that one!
This was Gardam’s first published work, and I’m so glad that she’s written many more since.
4****
Lucy is a young girl living in a small, seaside town in Yorkshire, in the years between the wars. She has a best friend, Mary, who joins her on various adventures, though they are sometimes accompanied by Lucy’s little brother, Jake. And she has many aunts to alternately indulge, entertain and scold her.
This is a charming collection of stories about childhood, and reminds this reader of our greatest and most valuable plaything – imagination. I loved how they played pirates, explored the abandoned estate next door (venturing all the way up to the attic, when her mother thought they were only in the garden), or searched the seashore for “treasure.” And my favorite mishap has to be the trip to buy a special cake, which is to be a parting gift for a guest. I laughed aloud at that one!
This was Gardam’s first published work, and I’m so glad that she’s written many more since.
13CliffBurns
Finished a mediocre thriller, BEFORE THE FALL, and am now working on Le Carre's latest, THE PIGEON TUNNEL.
14BookConcierge
Throne of Jade – Naomi Novik
Audiobook narrated by Simon Vance
4****
In Book two of this series, the Chinese have learned that the gift they were sending to Napoleon (an unhatched dragon’s egg) was intercepted by the British. Now a delegation arrives demanding the return of the Celestial dragon, which, by tradition, can only belong to a member of the royal family. But Capt Laurence is not about to turn Temeraire over; and the dragon does not want to be parted from his beloved Laurence. So the two travel to the Far East to plead their case. The voyage is long and there are several serious mishaps, but when they finally arrive at the court of the Chinese emperor, they find even more intrigue.
I was reluctant to read the first book – His Majesty’s Dragon – because “fantasy” is just not my preferred genre. But a friend whose opinion I trust persuaded me to give it a try, and I loved it. Now, I think I am hooked on the series.
Novik does a great job imagining a fantasy scenario where dragons are part of the Air Corps, while also keeping the reader in a (circa) 1801 time frame. The battle scenes are exciting, and the intrigue builds suspense. I really like the growing relationship between Temeraire and Capt Laurence. Temeraire is growing and maturing, and shows great loyalty to Laurence. They are truly a team, listening to one another’s point of view and weighing the pros and cons of a situation.
Simon Vance is marvelous voicing the audio book. He has great pacing and is able to “act” the scenes to heighten suspense or convey anger or compassion. And I love the voice he uses for Temeraire.
Audiobook narrated by Simon Vance
4****
In Book two of this series, the Chinese have learned that the gift they were sending to Napoleon (an unhatched dragon’s egg) was intercepted by the British. Now a delegation arrives demanding the return of the Celestial dragon, which, by tradition, can only belong to a member of the royal family. But Capt Laurence is not about to turn Temeraire over; and the dragon does not want to be parted from his beloved Laurence. So the two travel to the Far East to plead their case. The voyage is long and there are several serious mishaps, but when they finally arrive at the court of the Chinese emperor, they find even more intrigue.
I was reluctant to read the first book – His Majesty’s Dragon – because “fantasy” is just not my preferred genre. But a friend whose opinion I trust persuaded me to give it a try, and I loved it. Now, I think I am hooked on the series.
Novik does a great job imagining a fantasy scenario where dragons are part of the Air Corps, while also keeping the reader in a (circa) 1801 time frame. The battle scenes are exciting, and the intrigue builds suspense. I really like the growing relationship between Temeraire and Capt Laurence. Temeraire is growing and maturing, and shows great loyalty to Laurence. They are truly a team, listening to one another’s point of view and weighing the pros and cons of a situation.
Simon Vance is marvelous voicing the audio book. He has great pacing and is able to “act” the scenes to heighten suspense or convey anger or compassion. And I love the voice he uses for Temeraire.
15BookConcierge
Caddie Woodlawn – Carol Ryrie Brink
4****
This Newbery Award winner tells the story of Caddie Woodlawn, age about 12, in 1864 Wisconsin, growing up on a farm with her six brothers and sisters, and her two parents.
Brink based the novel (and a sequel) on the stories her grandmother told about living in Western Wisconsin during the time of the Civil War. The family is tight-knit and the children have many adventures, including exploring the river and woods near their homestead, and visiting the local tribe of Native Americans (“Indian John” being a particular friend). Caddie is a courageous, intelligent and resourceful girl, but she IS a child and sometimes the pranks and adventures she engages in go awry leading to some real dangers. She is a bit of a tom boy, spending more time with her brothers than with an older sister or her mother, but she is faced with the inevitability of “growing up” and becoming more ladylike.
The story reminds me a bit of Laura Ingalls Wilders’ “Little House” books, and that is definitely a good comparison. The book was originally published in 1935 and the way the Native Americans are portrayed is indicative of the times when it was written. But don’t let that dissuade you; it should open the door for good discussion with your children. Definitely a book worth adding to your children’s library.
4****
This Newbery Award winner tells the story of Caddie Woodlawn, age about 12, in 1864 Wisconsin, growing up on a farm with her six brothers and sisters, and her two parents.
Brink based the novel (and a sequel) on the stories her grandmother told about living in Western Wisconsin during the time of the Civil War. The family is tight-knit and the children have many adventures, including exploring the river and woods near their homestead, and visiting the local tribe of Native Americans (“Indian John” being a particular friend). Caddie is a courageous, intelligent and resourceful girl, but she IS a child and sometimes the pranks and adventures she engages in go awry leading to some real dangers. She is a bit of a tom boy, spending more time with her brothers than with an older sister or her mother, but she is faced with the inevitability of “growing up” and becoming more ladylike.
The story reminds me a bit of Laura Ingalls Wilders’ “Little House” books, and that is definitely a good comparison. The book was originally published in 1935 and the way the Native Americans are portrayed is indicative of the times when it was written. But don’t let that dissuade you; it should open the door for good discussion with your children. Definitely a book worth adding to your children’s library.
16sipthereader
ALEXANDER HAMILTON.......in an effort to convince myself things aren't as screwed up as they appear and it will all turn out alright.
17Cecrow
>16 sipthereader:, actually they probably are that screwed up, but they've always been, and things can still turn out all right, because they always do. Until they don't. I'm not sure if that's philosophy or engineering.
18BookConcierge
Pax – Sara Pennypacker
Audiobook narrated by Michael Curran-Dorsano
4****
From the book jacket Pax and Peter have been inseparable ever since Peter rescued him as a kit. But one day the unimaginable happens: Peter’s dad enlists in the military and makes him return the fox to the wild. At his grandfather’shouse three hundred miles away from home, Peter knows he isn’t where he should be … He strikes out on his own despite the encroaching war … to be reunited with his fox. Meanwhile Pax, steadfastly waiting for his boy, embarks on adventures and discoveries of his own.
My Reactions
This is a wonderful tale of loyalty, love, grief and perseverance. The point of view shifts from from Pax’s story to Peter’s experiences by chapters. Both endure significant hardship – Peter suffering guilt for having betrayed his beloved pet, and enduring the rigors of traveling such a long distance alone (and injured). Pax, totally domesticated, has no hunting skills nor the social skills he needs to get along with the wild foxes he encounters. And then there is the war … roads are blocked, tanks rumble past, woods are mined, shots are fired.
Both Peter and Pax are somewhat distrustful, having lost their faith in others because of the betrayals they’ve suffered. But they come to terms with their own limitations and learn to trust and rely upon others to help them. Both also draw on reserves of strength, courage and perseverance they didn’t know they had to help not only themselves but those around them.
Allison never gives us a location for this book, but it seems to be the United States. This country has been fortunate NOT to have to endure the kind of war depicted on our own soil.
Michael Curran-Dorsano does a marvelous job voicing the audio book. He had a good pace, and it was easy to tell when he was voicing Pax’s point of view vs. Peter’s.
Jon Klassen’s illustrations are also wonderful; they are at once simple and expressive. I’m glad I thought to get the text version as a reference point so I could enjoy his drawings.
Audiobook narrated by Michael Curran-Dorsano
4****
From the book jacket Pax and Peter have been inseparable ever since Peter rescued him as a kit. But one day the unimaginable happens: Peter’s dad enlists in the military and makes him return the fox to the wild. At his grandfather’shouse three hundred miles away from home, Peter knows he isn’t where he should be … He strikes out on his own despite the encroaching war … to be reunited with his fox. Meanwhile Pax, steadfastly waiting for his boy, embarks on adventures and discoveries of his own.
My Reactions
This is a wonderful tale of loyalty, love, grief and perseverance. The point of view shifts from from Pax’s story to Peter’s experiences by chapters. Both endure significant hardship – Peter suffering guilt for having betrayed his beloved pet, and enduring the rigors of traveling such a long distance alone (and injured). Pax, totally domesticated, has no hunting skills nor the social skills he needs to get along with the wild foxes he encounters. And then there is the war … roads are blocked, tanks rumble past, woods are mined, shots are fired.
Both Peter and Pax are somewhat distrustful, having lost their faith in others because of the betrayals they’ve suffered. But they come to terms with their own limitations and learn to trust and rely upon others to help them. Both also draw on reserves of strength, courage and perseverance they didn’t know they had to help not only themselves but those around them.
Allison never gives us a location for this book, but it seems to be the United States. This country has been fortunate NOT to have to endure the kind of war depicted on our own soil.
Michael Curran-Dorsano does a marvelous job voicing the audio book. He had a good pace, and it was easy to tell when he was voicing Pax’s point of view vs. Peter’s.
Jon Klassen’s illustrations are also wonderful; they are at once simple and expressive. I’m glad I thought to get the text version as a reference point so I could enjoy his drawings.
19BookConcierge
Journey to the River Sea – Eva Ibbotson
4****
Maia is an orphan in London, in the early 1900s. She is in a boarding school where she has many friends and is beloved by the teachers and staff. Her family’s solicitor has finally found some distant relatives who have agreed to take Maia in … however, she’ll have to leave her school and go to Brazil where the Carters have a rubber plantation. It so happens they have just hired a new governess for their twin daughters, so Maia and Miss Minton will make the long journey together. While she is sad to leave her friends at school, Maia is excited by the possible adventure of living in a jungle setting, and she reads about the Amazon and Brazil to prepare herself for her new life. What she finds, however, is far from her imagined situation.
What a lovely adventure / coming-of-age story! Maia is a strong female character – intelligent, kind, generous, brave, resourceful and loyal. I loved how she reserved judgment until she was certain of the facts, and even when faced with greedy, spiteful people she maintained her dignity and, with the help of Miss Minton, found a way around obstacles. Her willingness to explore and learn about the native culture was also a fine lesson. And I liked the way Ibbotson made heroes out of some unlikely characters.
I did think the Carter family – father, mother, and twins – were rather stereotypical “villains,” but that is a small quibble. This is a children’s book, after all, and I don’t expect the same subtleties that I would in literature written for adults.
Occasional illustrations by Kevin Hawkes really lend atmosphere to the book.
4****
Maia is an orphan in London, in the early 1900s. She is in a boarding school where she has many friends and is beloved by the teachers and staff. Her family’s solicitor has finally found some distant relatives who have agreed to take Maia in … however, she’ll have to leave her school and go to Brazil where the Carters have a rubber plantation. It so happens they have just hired a new governess for their twin daughters, so Maia and Miss Minton will make the long journey together. While she is sad to leave her friends at school, Maia is excited by the possible adventure of living in a jungle setting, and she reads about the Amazon and Brazil to prepare herself for her new life. What she finds, however, is far from her imagined situation.
What a lovely adventure / coming-of-age story! Maia is a strong female character – intelligent, kind, generous, brave, resourceful and loyal. I loved how she reserved judgment until she was certain of the facts, and even when faced with greedy, spiteful people she maintained her dignity and, with the help of Miss Minton, found a way around obstacles. Her willingness to explore and learn about the native culture was also a fine lesson. And I liked the way Ibbotson made heroes out of some unlikely characters.
I did think the Carter family – father, mother, and twins – were rather stereotypical “villains,” but that is a small quibble. This is a children’s book, after all, and I don’t expect the same subtleties that I would in literature written for adults.
Occasional illustrations by Kevin Hawkes really lend atmosphere to the book.
20Sandydog1
'Just finished Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki. Blah, blah blah, depression, blah blah blah, graphic sexual dreams, blah, blah, blah...
21jordantaylor
I'm reading Lonesome Dove and The Old Patagonian Express by Paul Theroux at the moment, and loving them - but they do both have, coincidentally, a similar dry humor about them.
I agree, Cliff - I need a dark, brooding book.
I agree, Cliff - I need a dark, brooding book.
22mejix
Just started Strangeness in my mind by Orhan Pamuk. Seems like this is going to be about the history of Turkey since the late 50's. I think I am missing many references. The writing as always is exquisite.
23CliffBurns
@21 Jonathan Carroll might be up your alley--LAND OF LAUGHS or SLEEPING IN FLAME or BONES OF THE MOON. Let me give a plug to another "mysterious" writer, Nicholas Christopher. If you can nab copies of VERONICA or A TRIP TO THE STARS, you won't regret it.
Perfect cool autumn reads.
Perfect cool autumn reads.
24lisapeet
Looking to some of the spookier stuff on my shelves because October, and just finished The Loney, a contemporary British horror story. Such a damp book—water-stained walls and feral tides and rain, rain, rain. This was a good, if slightly opaque, theologically-inclined gothic tale, with scary houses and Satanists and faith being questioned left and right. When I first closed the book I thought the ending was as soggy as the landscape, but after a bit of thought I've decided it was actually very clever, if maybe a bit too subtle for its own good. But all in all the book kept me rapt and appreciative of being dry; a good spooky tale.
But that's enough horror for one week, so now I'm reading Ann Patchett's Commonwealth, which is sooo consumable. Eating it up in big bites.
But that's enough horror for one week, so now I'm reading Ann Patchett's Commonwealth, which is sooo consumable. Eating it up in big bites.
25iansales
Rites of Passage was excellent. Am less enamoured by The Appointment, tho it is still good.
26CliffBurns
THE LONEY looks interesting--I believe I'll add it to my inter-library loan list.
Hallowe'en reading...
Hallowe'en reading...
27iansales
Currently reading A Wreath of Roses.
28BookConcierge
Dracula – Bram Stoker
Audiobook narrated by Alexander Spender and Susan Adams
5*****
Does anyone really need a synopsis? If you’ve seen any of the movies, you know the basic plot, but the original novel is so much more!
Stoker wrote the work as a series of journal or diary entries, letters and newspaper clippings. This could easily become disjointed, but in this case, it serves to give a certain immediacy to the writing. It also builds suspense, as we leave one character to jump to another’s perspective, frequently with a disconnect in terms of what each of the characters knows about the full situation. The danger they are in is frequently a result of not having the full picture, of not truly understanding the force against which they are pitted.
But the novel is more than just a horror story. There are several themes which would be great for book group discussion.
To begin there is the typical Victorian theme of strong men coming to the rescue of pure damsel in distress. However, Stoker turns the tables a bit when he gives Mina the intelligence, foresight and courage to fight the evil forces in her own way. Yes, the men do the actual fighting, but it is Mina who first puts together all the individual notes into a coherent chronological story, and ultimately gives the men what they need to go up against Dracula. The woman has steel!
Stoker also includes a fair amount of sexual – or at least sensual – tension. Bosoms heave, blood quickens, breathing is rapid, and people are completely overcome and overwhelmed by desire. They are simply helpless in the face of their base instincts … or are they?
The novel is wonderfully atmospheric; from the delights of a new culture as Harker first experiences the loveliness of Eastern Europe, to the growing sense of doom when surrounded by howling wolves, to the creepy, skin-crawling scene with the hordes of rats (I feel squeamish as I type this), and finally to the “pure-white” snow of the mountain blizzard, time and again Stoker puts the reader smack dab in the middle of the scenes.
There are several different audio versions. The one I had from my library was masterfully performed by Alexander Spander and Susan Adams. Each voiced the journals / diaries based on the gender of the character writing that segment.
Audiobook narrated by Alexander Spender and Susan Adams
5*****
Does anyone really need a synopsis? If you’ve seen any of the movies, you know the basic plot, but the original novel is so much more!
Stoker wrote the work as a series of journal or diary entries, letters and newspaper clippings. This could easily become disjointed, but in this case, it serves to give a certain immediacy to the writing. It also builds suspense, as we leave one character to jump to another’s perspective, frequently with a disconnect in terms of what each of the characters knows about the full situation. The danger they are in is frequently a result of not having the full picture, of not truly understanding the force against which they are pitted.
But the novel is more than just a horror story. There are several themes which would be great for book group discussion.
To begin there is the typical Victorian theme of strong men coming to the rescue of pure damsel in distress. However, Stoker turns the tables a bit when he gives Mina the intelligence, foresight and courage to fight the evil forces in her own way. Yes, the men do the actual fighting, but it is Mina who first puts together all the individual notes into a coherent chronological story, and ultimately gives the men what they need to go up against Dracula. The woman has steel!
Stoker also includes a fair amount of sexual – or at least sensual – tension. Bosoms heave, blood quickens, breathing is rapid, and people are completely overcome and overwhelmed by desire. They are simply helpless in the face of their base instincts … or are they?
The novel is wonderfully atmospheric; from the delights of a new culture as Harker first experiences the loveliness of Eastern Europe, to the growing sense of doom when surrounded by howling wolves, to the creepy, skin-crawling scene with the hordes of rats (I feel squeamish as I type this), and finally to the “pure-white” snow of the mountain blizzard, time and again Stoker puts the reader smack dab in the middle of the scenes.
There are several different audio versions. The one I had from my library was masterfully performed by Alexander Spander and Susan Adams. Each voiced the journals / diaries based on the gender of the character writing that segment.
29BookConcierge
Anne’s House of Dreams – L M Montgomery
Audiobook performed by Justine Eyre
4****
In book five of this much-beloved series, Anne begins her married life. I don’t want to say any more because I don’t want to include spoilers.
What I love about these books is Anne, herself. She’s so optimistic and friendly, with good common sense, a kind heart, and a generous spirit. She is no stranger to trouble and heartache, and this book definitely includes some heart-wrenching events, but she relies on her strength of character to see her through, and ultimately achieves happiness by recognizing her many blessings and being thankful for them. I love the young woman she has become.
Justine Eyre does a marvelous job voicing the audio book. There are many characters, and she is up to the task of giving each of them a unique voice and demeanor. Of course, Montgomery’s writing gets much of the credit, but Eyre really brings them to life.
Audiobook performed by Justine Eyre
4****
In book five of this much-beloved series, Anne begins her married life. I don’t want to say any more because I don’t want to include spoilers.
What I love about these books is Anne, herself. She’s so optimistic and friendly, with good common sense, a kind heart, and a generous spirit. She is no stranger to trouble and heartache, and this book definitely includes some heart-wrenching events, but she relies on her strength of character to see her through, and ultimately achieves happiness by recognizing her many blessings and being thankful for them. I love the young woman she has become.
Justine Eyre does a marvelous job voicing the audio book. There are many characters, and she is up to the task of giving each of them a unique voice and demeanor. Of course, Montgomery’s writing gets much of the credit, but Eyre really brings them to life.
30Cecrow
>28 BookConcierge:, I liked it too. On the downside you didn't mention the peculiarly anti-climactic climax, at least by today's standards - but surely even then?
31anna_in_pdx
>28 BookConcierge: I love epistolary novels, Stoker's Dracula is a great example of that genre. Have you read Austen's Lady Susan?
32iansales
Finished A Wreath of Roses. Good - will read more by Elizabeth Taylor. Am even tempted to buy the nice Virago Modern Classic editions of her novels. Next up, the latest Bernie Gunther, The Other Side of Silence. I don't seem to be reading much sf at the moment...
33BookConcierge
The Dinner – Herman Koch
Audiobook performed by Clive Mantle
4****
In an oh-so-fashionable restaurant in Amsterdam two couples meet for dinner. The men are brothers, and one is running for major political office. But they are not here to discuss their careers, they are here to discuss their teenage children, and the role those boys have played in a shocking incident.
Well, this certainly went in a direction I was not expecting. I was completed fascinated by the psychological nuances explored in these two couples. Paul is the narrator of this family drama; he is a former history teacher. His own psychology colors what he observes, as well as what – and how – he reveals what is happening. Claire is Paul’s wife, a woman he readily admits “is smarter” than he is. Their dinner companions are Paul’s older brother Serge Lohman, and his wife Babette.
Over the course of this meal – aperitif, appetizer, main course, dessert and digestif – they dance around the very serious situation their sons have gotten into. Emotions are triggered, and just as quickly suppressed. How can you possibly have a truly open discussion about such a serious topic in a public restaurant? The fact that they have chosen this venue is as revealing about their family dynamic, and individual motivations, as anything they actually say (or don’t say).
I can hardly wait for my F2F book group discussion!
Clive Mantle does a fine job performing the audio version. He has good pacing, and he gives Paul a sort of hypnotic, suppressed voice … it’s as if he is an outsider and not affected by the events. Chillingly eerie and yet perfect for this work.
Audiobook performed by Clive Mantle
4****
In an oh-so-fashionable restaurant in Amsterdam two couples meet for dinner. The men are brothers, and one is running for major political office. But they are not here to discuss their careers, they are here to discuss their teenage children, and the role those boys have played in a shocking incident.
Well, this certainly went in a direction I was not expecting. I was completed fascinated by the psychological nuances explored in these two couples. Paul is the narrator of this family drama; he is a former history teacher. His own psychology colors what he observes, as well as what – and how – he reveals what is happening. Claire is Paul’s wife, a woman he readily admits “is smarter” than he is. Their dinner companions are Paul’s older brother Serge Lohman, and his wife Babette.
Over the course of this meal – aperitif, appetizer, main course, dessert and digestif – they dance around the very serious situation their sons have gotten into. Emotions are triggered, and just as quickly suppressed. How can you possibly have a truly open discussion about such a serious topic in a public restaurant? The fact that they have chosen this venue is as revealing about their family dynamic, and individual motivations, as anything they actually say (or don’t say).
I can hardly wait for my F2F book group discussion!
Clive Mantle does a fine job performing the audio version. He has good pacing, and he gives Paul a sort of hypnotic, suppressed voice … it’s as if he is an outsider and not affected by the events. Chillingly eerie and yet perfect for this work.
34BookConcierge
>31 anna_in_pdx: wrote "Have you read Austen's Lady Susan?"
No, I haven't. Saw the movie, though (LOL) ...
No, I haven't. Saw the movie, though (LOL) ...
35BookConcierge
Midaq Alley – Naguib Mahfouz
4****
I love stories that feature an ensemble cast such as this. Midaq Alley is but one of many such small streets in Cairo. The residents form a microcosm of society – you have amoral profiteers and paragons of virtue, young and old, the beautiful and the deformed, hard workers and lazy ne’er-do-wells.
Over the course of the novel residents of the Alley fall in love, endure heartbreak, commit crimes, fall for promises, take chances at new adventures, become ill, and simply move on with their lives. The characters are frequently seduced by their hopes: If only I had … a husband, a title, nicer clothes, a better flat…etc.
The setting is 1940s Cairo, and the characters are definitely aware of Hitler and WW2. Still, the war is “out there” and what is most important to these characters is what is happening in Midaq Alley. Mahfouz’s writing is wonderfully atmospheric – I could smell the bread baking, or the hair oil used by the barber; hear the cacophony of sound in a busy public square; see the colors and movement of people gathering in a café.
4****
I love stories that feature an ensemble cast such as this. Midaq Alley is but one of many such small streets in Cairo. The residents form a microcosm of society – you have amoral profiteers and paragons of virtue, young and old, the beautiful and the deformed, hard workers and lazy ne’er-do-wells.
Over the course of the novel residents of the Alley fall in love, endure heartbreak, commit crimes, fall for promises, take chances at new adventures, become ill, and simply move on with their lives. The characters are frequently seduced by their hopes: If only I had … a husband, a title, nicer clothes, a better flat…etc.
The setting is 1940s Cairo, and the characters are definitely aware of Hitler and WW2. Still, the war is “out there” and what is most important to these characters is what is happening in Midaq Alley. Mahfouz’s writing is wonderfully atmospheric – I could smell the bread baking, or the hair oil used by the barber; hear the cacophony of sound in a busy public square; see the colors and movement of people gathering in a café.
36BookConcierge
>30 Cecrow:
I rarely comment on endings in my reviews, but I didn't think it was so "anti-climactic." I suppose modern audiences would want more of a fight, and that is probably the source of the "anti-climactic" criticism, but it didn't bother me .
I rarely comment on endings in my reviews, but I didn't think it was so "anti-climactic."
37anna_in_pdx
>35 BookConcierge: Midaq Alley is a great movie too by the way! (An old black and white Egyptian movie with wonderful actor Shadia) - highly recommend if you can find it subtitled in English (a lot of the old movies are only subtitled in French).
38RobertDay
Just about to start on a vintage collection of Gothic shorts, Come not, Lucifer!. It dates from July 1945 and is a rather nice illustrated (but anonymous) anthology with stories by Poe, Melville, Dickens, le Fanu, Balzac and Stevenson. At twelve shillings and sixpence, this would have been rather upmarket. It is not produced to wartime production standards, so it must have been put out very soon after those restrictions were lifted.
39CliffBurns
Finished EMPORIUM, the debut collection of stories by Adam Johnson.
Literary and original but lacking warmth; he's done far better since.
Literary and original but lacking warmth; he's done far better since.
40anna_in_pdx
I just finished Rip Tide, another fine sailing-themed thriller by Sam Llewellyn. My favorite is still Maelstrom.
Today I got an ad for this frightening sounding collection of Bulwer-Lytton level purple writing:
http://www.orbooks.com/catalog/blood-splatters-quickly/?utm_source=mailchimp&...
I am tempted but will pass. Happy Halloween!
Today I got an ad for this frightening sounding collection of Bulwer-Lytton level purple writing:
http://www.orbooks.com/catalog/blood-splatters-quickly/?utm_source=mailchimp&...
I am tempted but will pass. Happy Halloween!
42BookConcierge
>37 anna_in_pdx: ... Thanks for the tip on the movie, Anna!
43ajsomerset
>40 anna_in_pdx:
Which Sam Llewellyn is it that's based on The Riddle of the Sands?
I recently read the original & loved it.
Which Sam Llewellyn is it that's based on The Riddle of the Sands?
I recently read the original & loved it.
44Limelite
Know any books with Thanksgiving dinner scenes in them? Other than Pilgrim stories for kids, thank you. I'll take Canadian Thanksgiving!
Christmas dinners, yes. Movie scenes, sure. Not what I'm looking for.
For sure, Dave Barry should have covered this topic in one of his books.
Christmas dinners, yes. Movie scenes, sure. Not what I'm looking for.
For sure, Dave Barry should have covered this topic in one of his books.
45CliffBurns
Well, there's always "Charlie Brown Thanksgiving"--that's timeless.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJ8ozEHG2xc
One of my favourite Thanksgiving anecdotes involves Sherron's grandfather. Years ago we were attending a Thanksgiving meal with the old folks. A table full of close relatives and Grandfather wanted to recite a special prayer...but he couldn't find it. A minor melee ensued as everyone searched around for Grandpa's special blessing. Finally he remembered that he'd tucked it in his wallet.
So, with great solemnity, the wallet was produced, the slip of paper extracted, reading glasses affixed. To his hushed, expectant audience, he read:
"For what we are about to receive, let us be truly thankful."
Aw, old timers.
Gotta love 'em.
Or poison their peppermints...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJ8ozEHG2xc
One of my favourite Thanksgiving anecdotes involves Sherron's grandfather. Years ago we were attending a Thanksgiving meal with the old folks. A table full of close relatives and Grandfather wanted to recite a special prayer...but he couldn't find it. A minor melee ensued as everyone searched around for Grandpa's special blessing. Finally he remembered that he'd tucked it in his wallet.
So, with great solemnity, the wallet was produced, the slip of paper extracted, reading glasses affixed. To his hushed, expectant audience, he read:
"For what we are about to receive, let us be truly thankful."
Aw, old timers.
Gotta love 'em.
Or poison their peppermints...
46Limelite
>45 CliffBurns: LoL!
Happy Thanksgiving
Happy Thanksgiving
47BookConcierge
>44 Limelite:
Philip Gulley's Signs and Wonders has a Thanksgiving scene in it. Covers a year in the town of Harmony Indiana.
Philip Gulley's Signs and Wonders has a Thanksgiving scene in it. Covers a year in the town of Harmony Indiana.
48cindydavid4
>4 Limelite: Ive read many of her books; haven't this one. Is this more of a YA?
49cindydavid4
>28 BookConcierge: Oh I loved the movie, just splendid! Read the book afterwards, the movie was a very good adaptation
50Limelite
>47 BookConcierge:
I found this link. . .
http://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/thanksgiving-in-literature-719722/
. . .Thanksgiving dinner scenes are difficult and rare to find in books, especially when compared to the number of Christmas ones.
I found this link. . .
http://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/thanksgiving-in-literature-719722/
. . .Thanksgiving dinner scenes are difficult and rare to find in books, especially when compared to the number of Christmas ones.
