Roberta's (luvamystery65) Colorful Challenge

WELCOME TO MY COLORFUL CHALLENGE



Howdy! I'm Roberta from the suburbs of Houston, Texas US. Last year I did a very loose and unstructured challenge. I'm ready to commit to some reading I have put off long enough. I had some great ideas for themes but they didn't merge well with the things I want to read this year. I decided to use color as a way to bring my categories together.

I look forward to year of both fun and challenging reading!

I finally made it to the Pacific Northwest and one of the highlights of my trip was a visit to the Chihuly museum. It's an explosion of color so I will feature some photos of Chihuly's work throughout my thread.



color definitions/blurbs from the websites Color Matters, Color Psychology and Wiki.



I will post some things in more than one category if they apply. Where I post them in italics it is a way for me to keep track of a series, 1001 Books, or ROOT that I've counted in a different category. I won't double count but I'll double post.

PINK
Feminist Authors and Novels



Pink is combination of the colors red and white. In almost every culture, one stereotype emerges: pink is associated with girls.

The Encyclopedia of Trouble and Spaciousness by Rebecca Solnit
A Room of One's Own by Virginia Woolf COMPLETED
Bad Feminist by Roxane Gay
The Second Sex by Simone de Beauvoir (library)

RED
Graphic Novels



Red is the color of extremes. It’s the color of passionate love, seduction, violence, danger, anger, and adventure.

Black Butler by Yana Toboso
Lone Wolf and Cub by Kazuo Koike (library)
Maus by Art Spiegleman
Preacher by Garth Ennis (library)

--------------------------------------------------------
Lone Wolf and Cub, Vol. 3: The Flute of the Fallen Tiger by Kazuo Koike & Goseki Kojima COMPLETED
Lone Wolf and Cub, Vol. 4: The Bell Warden by Kazuo Koike & Goseki Kojima COMPLETED

ORANGE
1001 Books to Read Before You Die



Orange is vibrant. It’s a polarizing color. People either love it or detest it.

I'll pick a few of these out throughout the year.



North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell COMPLETED
Bleak House by Charles Dickens COMPLETED

YELLOW
Short stories, Anthologies, and Essays



Yellow is the most luminous of all the colors of the spectrum. It’s the color that captures our attention more than any other color.

The Opposite of Loneliness by Marina Keegan (library)
Manual for Cleaning Women by Lucia Berlin
Dear Life Alice Munro
Thirteen Ways of Looking by Colum McCann

GREEN
Series and Sequels



Since the beginning of time, green has signified growth, rebirth, and fertility.

Leaphorn and Chee Mysteries by Tony Hillerman #12-18
The First Eagle January (library) COMPLETED
Hunting Badger March (library)
The Wailing Wind May (library)
The Sinister Pig July (library)
Skeleton Man September (library)
The Shape Shifter November (library)

Spenser Mysteries by Robert B. Parker #22-25
Thin Air (library) COMPLETED
Chance (library)
Small Vices (library)
Sudden Mischief (library)

Harry Hole #11

Dublin Murder Squad

BLUE
Moby Dick and inspired works



Blue is the favorite color of all people. It’s nature’s color for water and sky.

The Whale: A Love Story by Mark Beauregard January COMPLETED
Moby Dick by Herman Melville mid January through February

Roberta sets sail on the Pequod!




http://www.mobydickbigread.com/
http://www.greatwhatsit.com/archives/18405
http://ahistoryofnewyork.com/?s=moby+dick
http://www.readmoby.com/index.html
Ahab's Wife Sena Jeter Naslund (library)

Possibles:

In the Heart of the Sea: The Tragedy of the Whaleship Essex by Nathanial Philbrick
Why Read Moby Dick by Nathanial Philbrick (library) COMPLETED

PURPLE
The Chronicles of Barsetshire by Anthony Trollope



Purple symbolizes nobility and luxury to most people in the world. Purple is also a color of mourning. One of the most significant aspects of purple’s symbolism is the generational divide. Most young people view purple as a happy color. No baggage. Older adults view the color through a broader perspective.

The Warden (1855) COMPLETED
https://www.librarything.com/topic/140276#3649477
Barchester Towers (1857) April https://www.librarything.com/topic/144010
Doctor Thorne (1858) June https://www.librarything.com/topic/150713
Framley Parsonage (1861) August https://www.librarything.com/topic/154823 & https://www.librarything.com/topic/154997
The Small House at Allington (1864) October https://www.librarything.com/topic/157636
The Last Chronicle of Barset (1867) December https://www.librarything.com/topic/170949

BROWN
ROOTS



Brown is made combining many of the colors. It is included in the orange family. It represents stability, structure and security.

I'll pull these off the shelves month to month.



Evicted by Matthew Desmond COMPLETED
Falling Free by Lois McMaster Bujold COMPLETED
Wild Seed by Octavia E. Butler COMPLETED
Final Boarding by A.J. Mayers COMPLETED
The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers COMPLETED
The Mothers: A Novel by Brit Bennett COMPLETED
Old Man's War by John Scalzi COMPLETED

BLACK
Bustle's 11 Books That Will Make You Think Even More Deeply About The #BlackLivesMatter Movement https://www.bustle.com/articles/103714-11-books-that-will-make-you-think-even-mo...



Black is the absorption of all color and the absence of light.

Citizen: An American Lyric by Claudia Rankine COMPLETED
Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992 by Anna Deavere Smith (shiny)
The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson (library)
Men We Reaped by Jesmyn Ward (library)
Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Black Like Me by John Howard Griffin
The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander July
Native Son by Richard Nathaniel Wright (library)
The Color Purple by Alice Walker April
The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin (shiny)
Assata by Assata Shakur

The goal is not to read all of these this year, but read what I can and add to this list things like Evicted by Matthew Desmond.

GRAY
Gothic/Horror/Dark Romantics/Weird Fiction (New Weird)



Grey (British English) or gray (American English) is an intermediate color between black and white. It is a neutral or achromatic color, meaning literally that it is a color "without color". It is the color of a cloud-covered sky, of ash and of lead.

Horror! Group reads

Jan - Stephen King & Family - family month The Breathing Method by Stephen King COMPLETED
Feb - Shirley Jackson - psychological suspense The Lottery and Seven Other Stories by Shirley Jackson COMPLETED
Mar - Richard Matheson - creatures I am Legend
Apr - Daphne du Maurier - books made into films
May - J. Sheridan le Fanu - ghosts
June - Ann Radcliffe - gothic
July - Clive Barker/Neil Gaiman- GN/YA
Aug - Flannery O'Connor - Women
Sept - Poppy Z. Brite/Tananarive Due - diveristy
Oct - Joyce Carol Oates - modern
Nov - Edgar Allan Poe - short stories & poetry
Dec - Marjorie Bowen - crime & mystery

WHITE
Misc...



In color psychology white is the color of new beginnings, wiping the slate clean, so to speak. It is the blank canvas waiting to be written upon. While white isn't stimulating to the senses, it opens the way for the creation of anything the mind can conceive.

This is my overflow category where anything that doesn't fit elsewhere goes.



Swing Time by Zadie Smith COMPLETED
What Patients Say, What Doctors Hear by Danielle Ofri COMPLETED

QUOTES



There is pleasure in the pathless woods. Lord Byron

TICKERS

BOOKS READ



Another homage to my trip to the Pacific Northwest. This is the fantastic The Elliot Bay Book Company.


http://www.elliottbaybook.com/

January
1. Why Read Moby Dick? Nathaniel Philbrick (library)
2. Evicted by Matthew Desmond (ROOT)
3. The Breathing Method by Stephen King (library)
4. The Whale: A Love Story by Mark Beauregard (ROOT)
5. Swing Time by Zadie Smith (Shiny)
6. North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell (ROOT)
7. The First Eagle by Tony Hillerman (library)
8. Falling Free by Lois McMaster Bujold (ROOT)
9. Wild Seed by Octavia E. Butler (ROOT)
10. The Warden by Anthony Trollope (ROOT)
11. Lone Wolf and Cub, Vol. 3: The Flute of the Fallen Tiger by Kazuo Koike & Goseki Kojima (library)
12. Final Boarding by A.J. Mayers (ROOT)
February
13. Thin Air by Robert B. Parker (library)
14. Bleak House by Charles Dickens (shiny)
15. Lone Wolf and Cub, Vol. 4: The Bell Warden by Kazuo Koike & Goseki Kojima (library)
16. Citizen: An American Lyric by Claudia Rankine (ROOT)
17. What Patients Say, What Doctors Hear by Danielle Ofri (Shiny)
18. The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers (ROOT)
19. The Mothers: A Novel by Brit Bennett (ROOT)
20. The Lottery and Seven other Stories by Shirley Jackson (library)
21. A Room of One's Own by Virginia Woolf (ROOT)
22. Old Man's War by John Scalzi (ROOT)

Book Bullets


The photo is my homage to Judy, little Miss Sureshot, who can shoot out those BB forwards, backwards and riding on her horse!

1. GUS OPENSHAW'S WHALE-KILLING JOURNAL: A Novel by Keith Thompson hit by Judy (DeltaQueen) because of course she should hit me with the first book bullet! ;-)

2. $2.00 a Day: Living on Almost Nothing in America by Kathryn J. Edin hit by Katie (katiekrug)

3. The Manual of Detection by Jedediah Berry by Lori (lkernagh)

4. What Patients Say, What Doctors Hear by Danielle Ofri by Darryl (kidzdoc)

5. Christmas Days: 12 stories and 12 feasts for 12 days by Jeanette Winterson by Ardene (markon)

6. News of the World by Paulette Jiles by (clue)

7. The Assault by Harry Mulisch by Darryl (kidzdoc)

8. How Nancy Jackson Married Kate Wilson by Mark Twain by (mamzel)

9. A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles by Mark (msf59)

PERSONAL PHOTOS



My amazing stay in Port Townsend, WA where our vacation rental looked out on Discovery Bay. The colors were gorgeous. I found a handmade poncho at a farmers market that captured the blues and greens in this part of the country. October 2016



With the lovely Lisa (LisaMorr) at Brazos Bookstore, March 1, 2017 for the book signing Q&A with Glenn Frankel author of High Noon: The Hollywood Blacklist and the Making of an American Classic

Currently Reading















February Possibles
Mary Barton by Elizabeth Gaskell WomenCAT Orange or Brown
His Bloody Project by Graeme Macrae Burnet RandomCAT
What Patients Say, What Doctors Hear by Danielle Ofri CultureCAT COMPLETED
Long Way to a Small Angry Planet by Becky Chambers COMPLETED
Birdie by Tracey Lindberg
The Mothers by Brit Bennett COMPLETED
Thin Air by Robert B. Parker COMPLETED
Bleak House by Charles Dickens COMPLETED
Lone Wolf and Cub Volume 4: The Bell Warden by Kazuo Koike COMPLETED
The Lottery and other short stories by Shirley Jackson COMPLETED

continue Moby Dick by Herman Melville and A Field Guide to Getting Lost by Rebecca Solnit

March Possibles

Hunting Badger by Tony Hillerman
I Am Legend by Richard Matheson Horror!
Black Like Me by Howard Griffin
The Secret Place by Tana French RandomCAT/CATWoman/AwardCAT
The Whole Art of Detection: The Lost Mysteries of Sherlock Holmes by Lyndsay Faye
Mary Barton by Elizabeth Gaskell AlphaKIT
Lone Wolf and Cub Vol. 5: Black Wind by Kazuo Koike AlphaKIT
The Opposite of Lonelinessby Marina Keegan
Preacher by Garth Ennis
The Last Battle by C.S. Lewis

continue Moby Dick by Herman Melville and A Field Guide to Getting Lost by Rebecca Solnit

Threads I'm Hosting

February CultureCAT: Medicine & Public Health
CultureCAT - February Medicine and Public Health The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down by Anne Fadiman What Patients Say, What Doctors Hear by Danielle Ofri

AwardCAT - April International Dublin Literary Award and the Pulitzer Prize The Color Purple by Alice Walker

CatWoman - July Women of Color The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander (Also use for CultureCAT)

Challenges I'm Following (not always participating)

RANDOMCAT

Jan - Search and Rescue - rabbitprincess The First Eagle by Tony Hillerman
Feb - RidgewayGirl A Room of One's Own & Old Man's War
Mar - LibraryCin The Secret Place
Apr - dudes22
May - DeltaQueen50
Jun - majkia
Jul - jonesli
Aug - LittleTaiko
Sep - whitewavedarling
Oct - christina_reads
Nov - Chrischi_HH
Dec - VioletBramble

CULTURECAT

January for Ethics in Science & Technology -- hosted by mathgirl40 Falling Free by Lois McMaster Bujold
February for Medicine & Public Health -- hosted by luvamystery65 What Patients Say What Doctors Hear
March for Cultural Awareness & Diversity -- hosted by whitewavedarling Black Like Me
April for for Religious Diversity & Freedom histed by EBT1002
May for Gender Equality -- hosted by sallylou61
June for Environmentalism/Conservation (including global warming concerns) -- hosted by LibraryCin
July for Violence, Crime & Justice -- hosted by DeltaQueen50
August for Impact of Natural disasters -- hosted by LibraryCin
September for Journalism & the Arts -- hosted by Kristelh
October for Poverty -- hosted by jonesli
November for Conflict & War (including terrorism) -- hosted by LisaMorr
December for Cultural Flow & Immigration -- hosted by katiekrug

CATWOMAN

January: Classics by women -- japaul22 North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell
February: Debut books -- LittleTaiko The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet & The Mothers
March: Genres -- sturlington The Secret Place
April: Biography/autobiography/memoir -- sallylou61
May: Women in the arts -- Violetbramble
June: Professional women -- LittleTaiko
July: Women of color -- luvamystery65
August: Nonfiction or historical fiction -- LibraryCin
September: Children's/YA/Graphic novels -- DeltaQueen50
October: Regional reading -- RidgewayGirl
November: LGBT/Feminist writing -- mathgirl40
December: Modern (post-1960) novels by women -- christina_reads

AWARDSCAT

January -- Year's Best lists and Costa Book Award -- hosted by DeltaQueen50 Evicted by Matthew Desmond
February -- Canada Reads competition and The Morning News Tournament of Books -- hosted by RidgewayGirl The Mothers by Brit Bennett
March -- The Newbery and Caldecott medals and other Genre Awards (any genre prize not already featured) -- hosted by cbl_tn The Last Battle
April -- International Dublin Literary Award and the Pulitzer Prize -- hosted by luvamystery65
May -- Man Booker International Prize and the Edgar Awards -- hosted by jonesli
June -- The PEN Literary Awards and the National Book Award (USA) -- hosted by clue
July -- Baileys Women's Prize for Fiction and any Science Fiction/Fantasy award -- hosted by sturlington
August -- Miles Franklin Award and the Stonewall Book Award -- hoisted by LisaMorr
September -- Man Booker Prize and O. Henry Award -- hosted by Kristelh
October -- Nobel Prize for Literature and the Giller Prize -- hosted by rabbitprincess
November -- Local Awards (a regional prize of your choice) -- hosted by Chrischi_HH
December -- International awards (a prize from a country you aren't living in) -- hosted by Kistelh

AlphaKIT

Jan - M & S Evicted by Matthew Desmond and North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell
Feb - W & H The Long Way to A Small, Angry Planet and Bleak House by Charles Dickens
Mar - E & K
Apr - I & D
May - C & T
Jun - Y & N
Jul - B & G
Aug - O & F
Sep - U & P
Oct - A & V
Nov - L & Q
Dec - J & R

And as always, yearlong X and Z Swing Time by Zadie Smith

The Official UN-official SFF/SFFF-KIT

January: "Read an SFF you meant to read in 2016, but never started/completed" - hosted by fuzzi Falling Free
February: "Space Travel!" hosted by mathgirl40 The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet
March: "Religious Themed SciFi/Fantasy" hosted by Kristelh The Last Battle
April: "Dystopian/Apocalyptic theme" - hosted by DeltaQueen50
May: "Alien contact" - hosted by majkia
June: "Series Month" - hosted by LisaMorr
July: "Award Winners/Nominees" - hosted by sturlington
August: "Humorous sci fi/fantasy" - hosted by leslie.98
September: "Steampunk" - hosted by Tanya-dogearedcopy
October: "Near Future SciFi" - hosted by avatiakh
November: "Historical SFF" - hosted by inge87
December: "Magic Systems" - hosted by VioletBramble

Hi Roberta, this is a great concept. I'm looking forward to see the final version!

Me too!

Me three!

Just in case... Next one is yours... Ha!
Glad to see you here!

Looks like you are planning for a great reading year, Ro. I will be keeping a sharp eye on your 1001 Books as I have that bet on with my brother and I expect to be reading a few of those myself!

Great choice of colours and theme! I'll be interested in your Blue category especially -- not just because I really like blue, but also I hope to get some nautical BBs out of it. Or should they be book harpoons, given that Moby Dick is the focus of that category? ;)

Wonderful graphics! I'll be looking forward to seeing how you fill the categories.

Nice theme and pics Ro. I have just spent the last 10 minutes scrolling though images relating to Chihuly glass. The creations are amazing! Good luck with your reading plans for 2017.

All done!

>20 MissWatson: >21 LisaMorr: & >22 LittleTaiko: Final version up and ready.

>23 VictoriaPL: Always need to have a backup plan! LOL!

>24 DeltaQueen50: Ha ha Judy! Your brother that says he will always be ahead of you on that challenge. I hope you go back and take a look at this years homage to you in >16 luvamystery65:

>25 rabbitprincess: Definitely harpoons! It's a whale of category. *groan* ;-)

>26 VivienneR: It's ready for your perusal.

>27 Roro8: Ro! I loved the Chihuly museum. I really wanted to go since I saw his beautiful work at the Bellagio in Las Vegas. Here is a short audio tour of this museum with some photos to go along. http://www.chihulygardenandglass.com/m/tour/ He has installations all over the world.

Great theme and pictures! And a VERY early BB for me: I had no clue a new Harry Hole is due in 2017, so I'm adding that one to my list right away. :)

>29 Chrischi_HH: Thank you and I'm very excited there is a new Hole next year. http://jonesbo.com/harry-hole-back-2017/

Ro, I love your new category thread! I'm pleased that the Chihuly museum inspired you so.

My star has been allotted.

Love the Chihuly pic for your yellow category!

Now that you've added your pictures your thread has come alive! I love Chihuly's work and would have a hard time picking a favorite, but, the one you used to illustrate "Blue" is simply breathtaking!

Oh, I like being called Little Miss Sureshot and hopefully I will live up to that nickname in 2017.

Just for interest, you might want to look at at book called Gus Openshaw's Whale Killing Journal by Keith Thompson. I haven't read it yet but got the BB from mistrust, it's a humorous take off on Moby Dick and Jennifer gave it 4 stars.

>31 EBT1002: Thank you Ellen! It was on your recommendation that I did not skip the Chihuly Museum.

>32 LittleTaiko: That yellow tree reminds me of Alice in Wonderland.

>33 DeltaQueen50: I absolutely love that Blue sea sculpture! It's even more impressive in person. Have you been to the museum Judy?

Already dropping a book bullet and it's not even 2017. Miss Sureshot indeed!

>28 luvamystery65: *applause* :D

>28 luvamystery65: The artwork is gorgeous. I'll be keeping an eye on purple to see how you like the Barsetshire books. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.

Great theme! I hope you enjoy your colorful reading next year.

You are so fortunate in being able to visit the Chihuly museum. His works are spectacular. Back in the 90s (?) there was a series of tv shows about him and his work. What amazed me was the size of some of the pieces, like the one hanging from the roof of a cavernous railway station. Frasier (Kelsey Grammar) had a beautiful piece standing on his mantlepiece that I always envied.

>34 luvamystery65: I haven't been to the Chihuly Museum, Ro. Even though we live quite close to Seattle we very rarely spend any time in that city, we always seem to be passing through on our way to somewhere else.

What a fun category concept, Ro! I look forward to following along...

I can remember seeing some of Dale Chihuly's early work when he was here in RI at the RI School of Design. I still hope to get to his museum out there some day.

ETA: Oh - and I like your categories too!

>41 dudes22: His work has evolved so much over the years, but incredible all the same.

Thanks!

Yes, it has. I think when I went to an exhibit they had at the School of Design he might have still been doing it all himself. It was wonderful then although not as complex as the stuff he does now. But the colors were wonderful and, if I remember right, he was starting to experiment with some of the shapes but on a much smaller scale than what he does now.

Hi Roberta! I love your categories, and all the pictures. How great the Chihuly Museum must have been. My favourite is the tree in your yellow category.

>43 dudes22: He has some incredible projects now artists all over the world. It's really extraordinary.

>44 susanj67: Thanks Susan! Glad you came by.

I love your categories and pictures! Something about setting down with a big set of crayons still calms me down :)

I absolutely love your categories. I was thinking of doing something similar myself.

Love this, categories and especially the pictures and notes about color.

>46 whitewavedarling: I love crayons and colored pencils too! I love coloring mandalas right now.

>47 Sace: I hope you do! It would be fun to see how you interpret colors to your reading.

>48 Kristelh: Thanks! I was torn between what categories to use for orange, yellow and green, but I went with my gut. Can't wait to post more pics throughout the year.

>49 luvamystery65: I promise my interpretation won't be half as interesting. Lol. I plan on working on my thread over the weekend.

>50 Sace: I imagine it will be interesting. I can't wait to see it. Good luck.

I love your colour themed challenge, and the glass art is just gorgeous! I'll be popping in from time to time to see how your year proceeds :-)

>52 kpolhuis: Thank you! I'll see you around.

Great categories! I too am a fan of Chihuly's work and hope to get to go to the museum some day soon!

Hi Ro! I love your colour challenge! The graphics you have chosen to accompany your categories are amazing. Looking forward to following your reading in 2017... and really looking forward to seeing what you think of The Chronicles of Barsetshire. I am still on the fence as to whether or not I am ready to dip into Trollope's works.

Like you, I love Chihuly artwork. I was stunned to discover last year that one of the office towers in downtown Calgary has a series of three Chihuly works hanging in the front lobby. The amazing things one can discover walking into lobbies of otherwise staid and boring office towers:



Apologies... I took the picture with my smartphone so the image isn't the greatest.

I love Chihuly. The year I left London (2005) I went to Kew Gardens and found that he had done a series of installations all the way through the gardens. It was a lovely surprise, I hadn't gone because of the exhibition but it really worked well with the gardens. There's a video about the installation on his website: http://www.chihuly.com/file/chihuly-royal-botanic-gardens-kew

>54 -Eva-: I hope you get to go see Chihuly's work one day Eva.

>55 lkernagh: I already own all the audios so I figure I just need to jump in and read them. I found 5 of the 6 works were tutored by Liz (lyzard) so I think that will help me understand a lot. I LOVE the sculptures you posted.

>56 Jackie_K: I love all the stories of the various installations that people have seen all over the world. Chihuly really does have a unique vision. Thanks for the link.

Beautiful challenge! I see that you're reading a Rebecca Solnit book up there. I sometimes participate in a Social Justice book club, and they're reading one of her books, Hope in the Dark for January. I'm kind of on and off about reading it, though, because I've got a full month of reading and it's kind of hard to come by (though it turns out that the publisher is selling all its ebooks books for 50% off through Jan 3rd, so that excuse might not work anymore). Have you read Solnit before?

>58 The_Hibernator: I bought Hope in the Dark when I was in Seattle and I was thinking to switch it out as it appeals to me to read it before The Encyclopedia of Trouble and Spaciousness. I have only recently discovered Rebecca Solnit by reading Men Explain Things to Me the updated edition. I loved that essay, but I absolutely loved her essay, Woolf's Darkness: Embracing the Inexplicable. It spoke to me. I follow her on FB now. I love that you are in a Social Justice book club.

I'm glad I found a Social Justice book club to belong to. I'd been thinking of starting one for years, but didn't know how to advertise. This club reads one book every two months. Anyway, I've decided to pass on the Solnit book in January, though. I've got too many other things going on and I need to figure out how they all fit together before I start buying new books!

I think we've pretty much settled upon a July reading of The New Jim Crow because there are several people who want to join.

Because kidzdoc and Zoe over in the 75ers group are thinking of reading Evicted as well, I was going to ask if anyone wanted to schedule a group read of that, as well. I'll let you know what I figure out.

>60 The_Hibernator: No worries about the Solnit. I just went through my books to move up books I want to read for 2017 and it wasn't Hope in the Dark I picked up in Seattle, but A Field Guide to Getting Lost.

July works perfectly for me for The New Jim Crow as it will fit both the CultureCAT and CATWoman. I'll be hosting the CATWoman in July.

Please keep me posted about Evicted. I have it waiting in my stack and included in my Black category in addition to the 11 books from the Bustle article.

I'm curious how you went about finding members? I found a social justice book club in Houston that advertises through Meetup. It has over 400 members. I don't think they have that many that meet up regularly, but it seems really overwhelming to me.

Well, Carrie says she'll be reading Evicted in January, since she'll have it out of the library. And Zoe said there's benefits in striking the iron when hot, so I'm asking around to see if a Jan reading might be in store. I know that's really soon, though and many people already have plans for Jan!

I forgot to answer your other question: I found a social justice book club on the internet. It's a blogging one hosted by Entomology of a Bookworm and seems to have about 5 to 10 people who participate. You can always join it if you want.

>62 The_Hibernator: I was going to listen to Black Like Me but I can just as easily read Evicted. I'm in!

I just picked up Evicted from the library so there's another one for January.

I saw my first Chihuly at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas. The Franklin Conservatory in Columbus, Ohio, as well as the Art Museum have both hosted Chihuly exhibits. Your categories rock!

I had the pleasure of visiting the Elliot Bay Book Company a number of years ago when I accompanied Monsieur on a business trip. It was amazing! I love the amazing color of your challenge this year. It's so much fun! Glass blowing is fascinating. Were you able to see any in action at the museum?

I look forward to seeing what books you find to fill your categories. Here's to 2017!

Got the thread for Evicted up!

https://www.librarything.com/topic/243885

You all are in for a treat with your group read of Evicted. I know I've said this over and over again but it was an enthusiastic five-star read for me. I don't tend to do my own "best of the year" lists but, if I did, that would be firmly settled onto said list.

Roberta, I'm leaving this wish on both of your current threads.....

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!

>65 hailelib: Glad you will be joining us!

>66 Tess_W: The Bellagio in Vegas was where I first saw Chihuly. So lovely.

>67 mamzel: Thank you. I really did enjoy the bookstore. As to Chihuly, was not able to see any work in progress.

>68 The_Hibernator: Thanks! It's in progress.

>69 EBT1002: & >70 ronincats: Thank you! Happy Holidays to you.

Now to officially get started on this thread.

Currently Reading

Dropping my



and wishing you

>74 luvamystery65: Thank you Kim. I know this year has been full of ups and downs for you. I'm hoping 2017 will be kinder.

Why Read Moby Dick? by Nathanial Philbrick

BLUE
Moby Dick and inspired works

#1



This is a nice collection of essays about Moby Dick and why you should read it. I found Philbrick to be very enthusiastic about the subject. Since, I plan to read the novel very soon, I really could use the enthusiasm.

Things that stood out for me and I will keep in mind as I read the book are Ahab as a demagogue and how he manages to keep the crew under his spell. Also, discussed is how the book moves away from the narrative and seems to go off into a tangent, but Philbrick insists this is the brilliance of the book. One of the comments he makes is about the chapter Cetology being a fun filled parody. Hmm... I will keep that in mind because that is one of the chapters that people who don't like Moby Dick usually bring up as to why.

There is plenty of discussion of the influence for Melville's book. They include, Shakespeare, the Bible and meeting Nathanial Hawthorne. Hawthorne called Melville's writing style "unflinching reality."

This book is a love letter to Moby Dick. If you read Moby Dick and didn't care for it, consider this small volume a challenge.

ETA: I've changed the rating from 3.5 stars to 4. I've gone back to reread parts of this book and realize that it is more valuable to me than I originally thought.

>74 luvamystery65: Thanks Roberta. 2016 isn't done with me yet! My dad is in the hospital. Sigh. I think he will be okay, but sheesh! Enough already.

>75 luvamystery65: This book almost (almost!) makes me want to read Moby Dick again! Nice find.

>76 Berly: I'm so sorry to hear about your dad. Kim. The book is short and sweet. Even, if you didn't read Moby Dick again, it might make you appreciate the effort. ;-)

>75 luvamystery65: Was unaware of this book before I started Moby Dick. I still might read it, even though I'm about 50% of the way through Moby. I went to Cliff Notes on Moby Dick and read the sections on themes and symbols. Nahhhhhh, I still don't like the book!

>78 Tess_W: See if your library has this book. It is really short, and I found it very enthusiastic. It makes me actually looking forward to reading Moby Dick. I look forward to your final thoughts. Cliff Notes are usually hit or miss. I'll see if my library has a copy of the Cliff Notes. I have some links to reading MD here.

http://www.greatwhatsit.com/archives/18405
http://ahistoryofnewyork.com/?s=moby+dick
http://www.readmoby.com/index.html

Let me know if they are helpful to you.

>79 luvamystery65: TY for the links! I'm off to read them as soon as I get ready for bed. (In case they're boring and I fall asleep!) P.S. You can get the Cliff Notes online.

Found you, Roberta! Happy reading for 2017!

I'm impressed with your determination to read Moby Dick.

I love your colorful theme. I'm slightly embarrassed to admit I'd never heard of Chihuly, but your photos are lovely. I'll have to look into his work more. Hope you have a happy new year!

>80 Tess_W: :D

>81 mstrust: Yay Jennifer. Thank you.

>82 EBT1002: Ellen, I decided last year to read those chunksters that seemed overwhelming at the first of the year. I read War and Peace this year. Glad that is over! Between Amber's experience with MD and this book by Philbrick, I am actually looking forward to it. I hope it goes better than W&P.

>83 virginiahomeschooler: I love my colorful theme too. Don't be embarrassed. I had never heard of Chihuly until I went to Vegas and saw the ceiling of flowers at The Bellagio! It's incredible. Have fun looking at his work. Happy New Year to you as well.

Happy New Year, Roberta!

Happy New Year, Roberta.

Hi Roberta! I have you starred.

Hi Roberta! Well done on a finish already. I have yet to read Moby Dick - I tried the first chapter as an audio book but it turns out I still can't get on with audios :-)

Happy New Year, Roberta! I love your colorful thread.

Hello again, Ro!

>6 luvamystery65: You know green is a color after my own heart as is Spenser. So you can imagine my delight in seeing you pickup that baton. Thin Air and, especially Small Vices shine.

Happy New Year Ro!

Happy New Year!!

Happy New Year! (dropping a star)



(I had starred you back when you set this up, but hadn't left a star.)

>85 The_Hibernator: >86 Sace: >87 BLBera: >88 mstrust: Thank you and Happy New Year to you!

>89 kgodey: Thanks Kriti

>90 susanj67: Howdy Susan! I suppose audios aren't for everyone, but I would be so bored without them.

>91 tymfos: >92 Berly: Thank you and Happy New Year!

>93 brodiew2: Howdy Brodie. I look forward to getting back together with Spenser. I was never on a break with him as I still read one in 2015 and 2016. (A little Friends humor there!) I do miss him, so I've decided to commit a little bit more time to him. Let's see if he or Susan induce a rant from me this year.

>94 Roro8: Happy New year to you Ro! (I love having two other Ro around!)

>95 VictoriaPL: Thank you and Happy New Year to you!

>96 ronincats: There is my other Ro! Happy New Year! As I said to >94 Roro8: I love having two other Ro around.

Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City by Matthew Desmond

BROWN
ROOT

#2



This was an incredibly written and well researched book about eviction and the role it plays in perpetuating the poverty cycle. The research was done in Milwaukee but could have easily been written about many other American cities. Desmond is a social worker by education and spent two years living with the people he was studying. I knew some of the practices and struggles he was writing about as my aunt and uncle worked with a group of illegal immigrants that live in a trailer park in the next town over. The condition of the trailer park Desmond describes is not surprising at all. I learned a lot more from this book and it is heartbreaking that people who need the most help, often do not qualify for it. Sometimes, through their own actions, but many times not.

This book was on many best of 2016 lists. A place well deserved.

The Breathing Method by Stephen King

GRAY
Gothic/Horror/Dark Romantics/Weird Fiction (New Weird)

#3



This is the last novella in the collection Different Seasons by Stephen King. It's the only one of the four that has not been made into a movie. It had potential of being made really creepy if they had developed the back story of the old club where the gentlemen told their tales. That place had potential, as did the mysterious library. Instead, the story built up to a tale that fell short of the mark of being scary.

I'm fairly new to King works. Does this mysterious club, library or publishing house make any appearances in his other books?

The Whale: A Love Story by Mark Beauregard

BLUE
Moby Dick and inspired works

#4



This is a nice work of historical fiction based on a great deal of research into Herman Melville and Nathanial Hawthorne. Beauregard based the novel on the letters that Melville sent to Hawthorne. The ones Hawthorne sent to Melville did not survive. He also extensively researched Hawthorne's journals and letters that their circle of friends and relatives wrote. The book takes place between the time the two authors meet at a picnic until Moby Dick is published. Melville is so taken with Hawthorne, he moves his family to a farm near where the Hawthorne family resides. Melville had written The Whale and was about to submit it for publishing, but after he meets Hawthorne and is inspired by a "darkness" in him, Captain Ahab and the tale of Moby Dick takes on a completely different tone.

I'm not sure if anyone who hasn't read or isn't planning on reading Moby Dick would be interested in this novel, but it a nice tale of what might have transpired after the meeting of two of America's early and well known authors.

I picked up my copy of this book in Seattle at the University of Washington bookstore where I had my meetup with Ellen.

>101 luvamystery65:, I've read 12 King novels and I've yet to see the club, publishing company or library make an appearance in any of the books I've read.

>102 luvamystery65:, You've got to stop it, that's going on my wish list, also!;)

>101 luvamystery65: I think it appears in one of the early short stories, but certainly not any of the novels. The Breathing Method was my least favorite of the novellas in Different Seasons.

>100 luvamystery65: My review wasn't showing up, but I've seemed to fix it.

>103 Tess_W: >105 sturlington: The club and all the back rooms with the mysterious books and items produced by unknown companies seems to me much more creepier and with so much more potential than the actual tale told. The first three stories were so well done, this last one seems so mismatched.

>104 Tess_W: Ha! ;-) Melville was certainly obsessive. I really am looking forward to starting Moby Dick now. I've ordered a copy of the Penguin Classics Deluxe Edition with the forward by Nathanial Philbrick. I've also downloaded The Big Read, Moby Dick onto my phone. How goes your progress?

>100 luvamystery65: Oh good, Roberta. I had the same reaction to Evicted. I'm hoping it spurs some actions around the country, although it will have to be at the local level, I imagine, for the next four years.

>100 luvamystery65: I'll definitely have to read Evicted.

>106 luvamystery65: I'm about 70% of the way through Moby Dick. I'm slogging through.

>107 jnwelch: It's a good one Joe. It's something to look into locally as you said.

>108 LisaMorr: Lisa I think this is one you should put on your wishlist. It was recently on sale for Kindle. I'm sure it will be again. Snag it up when it is.

>109 Tess_W: Oh dear.

Swing Time by Zadie Smith

WHITE
Misc...

#5



I've not read Smith before this. I wasn't sure what to expect. The tale is of two girls, childhood friends with a shared passion for dance. Smith's writing summons time and place perfectly. I really felt as I was there and it stirred up some memories for me. Her characters are well developed. The story was well developed. Where this book fell short for me was that no one was likable, especially the narrator. She wasn't loathsome but, she was annoying.

I'm still thinking about this. I may revise my rating and add to my thoughts.

I see Smith on Friday at a Q&A.

>111 luvamystery65: Hmm...I've been curious about Swing Time because the plot appeals to me. Good to know that I shouldn't expect likable protagonists if/when I decide to read it!

>112 christina_reads: It's still a great book. I want to read more by her, but I had just read the most glowing review prior to reading this. I'll be interested to know your thoughts when you get around to Swing Time. Have you read anything else by her?

>113 luvamystery65: No, I haven't, although White Teeth is another one I'm somewhat interested in.

Roberta, I'm doing a group read of Swing Time on goodreads right now. I'm enjoying the book, but don't feel like I'm digesting it yet - just reading and having fun.

>114 christina_reads: >115 markon: I went to a Zadie Smith reading and Q&A last night. She is so brilliant and witty. Her writing style already brings the time and place to life but hearing her read a chapter really was wonderful. The author that was doing the Q&A with her brought up such a great point of why you feel that time and place with her writing. She doesn't use major events to invoke the past but rather technology and some pop culture moments.

I picked up a copy of White Teeth.

North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell

ORANGE
1001 Books to Read Before You Die

#6



This was the perfect book for me right now. I absolutely loved Gaskell's writing. I don't think I would have enjoyed this a few years ago, but after following some tutored reads by Liz (lyzard) and reading a few other Victorian novels, I'm getting a better understanding of the literature of that time. I listened to the audio, narrated by Juliet Stevenson. She always elevates the rating of anything she narrates. I love her Jane Austen narrations, but she was made for Gaskell. I already have Mary Barton in the queue for next month.

The story is a romance that serves as a vehicle for showing the rise and struggles of the Northern manufacturing classes. There are prejudices against the tradesmen and struggles with striking workers. The book highlights that no matter what stereotype you have of any group of people, once you get to know an individual, your outlook will be affected. Gaskell writes about the servants, the working man, the merchants and the upper classes.

In reading a bit about Gaskell she was both the wife and daughter of a minister. Some of the plot in North and South is a bit autobiographical. Charles Dickens was her publisher. As a female author, she was not as free to write only on the social issues of her day, but what she does is admirable in this novel. I look forward to more work by her.

Here is a link to an old group read I took a peek at after I finished. There are some very good insights.

North and South, Chapters 1-26 (Spoiler Thread)

North and South, Chapters 27-52 (Spoiler Thread)

Wow, that is a persuasive review of North and South. I am another who doesn't always appreciate Victorian lit.

I hope you're having a wonderful weekend!

>118 EBT1002: Thank you Ellen. I'm working but next weekend I head to Vegas!

Howdy, Ro!

North and South is one I keep meaning to get around to... You've definitely ocnvinced me to prioritize it this year. Nice review.

>117 luvamystery65: Thanks for the recommendation of Juliet Stevenson. I'm always looking for excellent narrators for audiobooks.

I've added >117 luvamystery65: to my favourites for when I finish the book myself! The group read threads would be an interesting follow-up.

>120 katiekrug: Thank you Katie. I really liked Margaret Hale and Jim Thornton. They both had their flaws but they were good, strong characters.

>121 donan: She has become a favorite of mine.

>122 rabbitprincess: I found it under Conversations (links) on the book page. Now I know where to go look for threads talking about a book.

I was just watching Juliet Stevenson in "Ladder of Swords" a few days ago. I didn't know she did audio books too, but I can see where she'd be great for Austen.
Have a great time in Vegas! I'm there often as Mom lives there, so let me know if you need restaurant recommendations.

>124 mstrust: Thanks Jennifer. My cousin Joe is turning 50. Any great steak places we can take him to on Friday? PM me please. Thanks!

Juliet Stevenson is a wonderful actress but she really excels at narration. In addition to the Austen, I've listened to her narrate Virginia Woolf. Brilliant!

I've just finished The First Eagle by Tony Hillerman. Thoughts to follow later. This series just gets better.



Started on audio the following.





This will be my airplane book for my trip to Vegas. It's my cousin's fifth novel. It was inspired by the disappearance of Malaysia Airlines flight MH370.

>126 luvamystery65: LOL to your airplane book, but it does sound like a great one!

>127 Tess_W: :P Even though I'm ready to get started on Moby Dick, that is NOT an airplane type of book.

Stopping by with happy Sunday wishes and to get caught up.

>117 luvamystery65: - Looks like I will be taking a BB for North and South, a book I keep meaning to read and just never get around to actually doing so.

>117 luvamystery65: The BBC did a great mini-series (4 episodes) of North and South with Richard Armitage. I saw it on PBS and my sister even got me my own personal copy! More here:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/drama/northandsouth/

I loved North and South also. I also particularly enjoyed her novel, Mary Barton. Also, I've recently discovered Juliet Stevenson for audio books as well. I had sort of given up on audio books but had a free credit at Audible and chose to get Middlemarch read by her which is one of my favorite books. I'm loving doing a "reread" through her!

>130 kac522: I love the BBC miniseries of North and South. I saw it before I read the book and it helped me envision the scenes better.

Morning, Roberta! A very nice review of North and South - I completely agree about Juliet Stevenson. I love her narrating Austen, and I listened to her Middlemarch and Mrs. Dalloway - she elevates anything she reads.

Wishing you safe travels.

Hi Roberta - Lucky you to get to see Zadie Smith. I loved Swing Time. I'll be anxious to see what you think about White Teeth; I thought Swing Time was a little more polished. And I liked the narrator.

I've been meaning to read North and South. Maybe this year. Oh, and Evicted. I guess I'd better get reading.

>129 lkernagh: I found North and South very enjoyable Lori. I hope you can get to it one day soon. Were you able to find O'Pioneers on Hoopla?

>130 kac522: I plan to watch it while I'm traveling this weekend! It's on Netflix but I think it expires at the end of the month. Richard Armitage *swoon* Your sister is awesome for that gift.

>131 japaul22: Another Stevenson audio fan! I have Middlemarch narrated by Stevenson waiting in the wings. I am going to listen to Mary Barton next. I'm glad to hear you enjoyed it.

>132 VictoriaPL: I didn't want to see it before I read it, but now I'm ready to watch it.

>133 Crazymamie: Thank you Mamie! I don't know it if it was you or Mark that got me started on Stevenson, but I do know you are huge fan. I listened to her narrate To the Lighthouse and it was lovely. I don't know if I could have "read" that book. Stevenson made it for me. I have Mrs. Dalloway as part of my challenge this year. I will definitely listen to Stevenson narrate.

Thank you for the travel wishes.

>134 BLBera: Beth Zadie Smith was an absolute gem. The place was packed. North and South was so well done.

Do you have a copy of Evicted? Move it up the stacks!

You're the one who's reading (well, has read, now) North and South! I knew somebody on here was, but I couldn't remember who. I'm working on it right now, but I'm just in chapter 3 at the moment. So far so good, but nothing has really happened yet.

>136 casvelyn: Yes it was me! It gets better and better as it goes on. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have. Let me know.

There's an even older miniseries of North and South starring Sir Patrick Stewart as Mr. Thornton! It's rather disconcerting because he actually has hair. I haven't tried hunting it down yet, but it could be on Youtube.

The First Eagle by Tony Hillerman

GREEN
Series and Sequels

#7



The best in the series for me so far. A fellow officer is murdered and Jim Chee catches the killer at the scene. Of course the defendant denies it, but with the death penalty on the table and a missing vector control officer that was in the area added to the mix, what could make it worse? You got it! Jim's ex Janet Pete is back and assigned the defendant. What else could make this more complicated? The missing woman's family has hired retired Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn to find her. All in all a good mystery and interesting plot involving the hantavirus and antibiotics becoming resistant. I also loved the part about the eagle and what it represented to Jim to capture it.

*rant*
I'm really annoyed with Jim Chee and his completely unrealistic expectations in a relationship, first with Mary and now with Janet. I really thought it was settled with Janet, but Jim loves to drag things out. I feel sorry for these ladies because he wants them to change and to some extent they want him to change as well. He's very immature even in regards to his feelings towards Leaphorn. In the end, I do hope he matures more.

The good news is Louisa is back and having a good time with Joe.

>138 rabbitprincess: Oh my!

>117 luvamystery65: I just finished this listening today. Great to know you liked it so much. For me was it a four stars.
Hapoy Wednesday, Roberta.

>139 luvamystery65: You are so much nicer than I am, Roberta, even in your rant! For me, the whole Jim/Janet saga pretty well swamps what are actually well-plotted books. I don't have to like a book's main characters, but I don't understand the point of making him revisit the same romantic ground over and over when it is so obvious there will never be a satisfactory resolution — Janet will never give up her love of city/Anglo life, and Jim will never leave the reservation. Move on!

>141 Ameise1: Happy Wednesday Barbara! I just loved the growth of the two characters, the setting and also the social issues that I think Gaskell would have written more in depth about if she were a man and had been allowed to. I do believe she was curtailed by her publisher, Charles Dickens. I am very curious and plan to read up more about her personally.

>142 rosalita: I just see it more as fundamental problem with Jim. He has a similar problem with Leaphorn in that he is pouty and immature in his attitude. I think it is getting better with Leaphorn only because Leaphorn is retired. I blame Jim more in this relationship with Janet because he should have learned from his relationship with Mary. Zero growth. Also, what is with this constant passing tests? Enough already!

I hope we've moved on. We meaning them, not us Julia!

>143 luvamystery65: I think you're right. If she were a man the story would have taken more depth and turns.

Hi Ro! My mom was huge fan of the Hillerman books about when they were fist out. I want to say I listened to audios on one or two of them at some point. I should try again.

>144 Ameise1: :-)

>145 brodiew2: They are slow to start out with Brodie, but Hillerman grows as writer. Honestly, I might have bailed out had it not been for our 3 year group reading. I'm glad we did this because they are good. It helped to read one every other month with Longmire. It balanced them out.

I burned out on Spenser by reading them every month and getting really frustrated with Spenser and Susan. I look forward to getting back to Spenser this year. I've read one a year the past two years.

>143 luvamystery65: I think Hillerman intended Chee (young, eager, impetuous) to be a counterweight to Leaphorn (slow, steady, everything by the book), and that dynamic works really well for me when it comes to the police work. But if you're going to make me watch a young policeman mature under the guidance of a wise elder, please don't also make me live through all his stupid adolescent romantic foibles, too. It's just completely unnecessary to the plot and doesn't add anything we don't already get from the Chee/Leaphorn relationship. And Janet is just as much to blame as Chee. Why on earth did she even come back? They need to have their heads knocked together. Repeatedly.

/rant

>147 rosalita: I don't see how she got assigned the case if her ex fiance is the arresting officer.

ETA: I've missed these rants!

>148 luvamystery65: Exactly!

At least the rants are only every other month. :-)

Although we should probably be having them over on the Project thread, so everyone can "enjoy" them.

>148 luvamystery65: Next book Julia. Especially if Janet is back.

Falling Free by Lois McMaster Bujold

BROWN
ROOTS

#8



This is a story in the Vorkosigan universe that takes place approximately 200 years before Miles Vorkosigan's story. Leo Graf is an earth born engineer sent to a space station to train Quaddies. The Quaddies are genetically modified. They have four arms and their bodies are better suited to zero gravity. They are able to live in free fall without the physical deterioration unmodified humans have. The problem is that they were created by the company they work for and are considered "post-fetal experimental tissue cultures". The company, GalacTech, has provided for them since creation and has a large financial investment in them. They are far away from any government that would outlaw the genetic modifications and protect the Quaddies from slavery. Leo is really uncomfortable with the moral dilemma that the Quaddies represent, but he is there to do a job. When a situation arises that forces Leo to take a stand, he decides to help the Quaddies escape and become self sufficient.

I was interested in the Quaddies since their mention in Labyrinth and then in Diplomatic Immunity we visit their new home world The Union of Free Habitats. It's was nice to know their origin story.

I owe you a big Thank You for suggesting Ethan of Athos for January's CultureCat. I loved the story. The Vorkosigan series has yet to disappoint!

Finally got my copy of The First Eagle!! Just have to wrap up a book before I launch into it.

>135 luvamystery65: - no such luck on O'Pioneers I am afraid, Roberta. Hoopla has 6 Willa Cather books but not the one I am looking for. sighs I think I might mention it to the library the next time I am in, just in case the library catalogue of Hoopla materials is not up-to-date.

>152 DeltaQueen50: Judy you are so welcome. I really thought you would love Ethan of Athos. It's one of my favorite in the series. I loved seeing this side of Elli Quinn. I've always wished she would write a sequel, if even in a short story or novella, of future generations on Planet Athos.

>153 Berly: I can't wait for you to read The First Eagle Kim. Please let me know your thoughts.

>154 lkernagh: Oh no! I was hoping you could get it on audio Lori. I live for my audios and I got the idea from you that if Hoopla has the audio, I listen and still count it as a ROOT if I own a physical or Kindle copy.

I finally started Moby-Dick by Herman Melville. I am listening to The Moby Dick Big Read and following along on my Penguin Classics Deluxe Edition. It's got a gorgeous cover and deckled edges.



Here is where I'm posting my thoughts. Roberta sets sail on the Pequod!

I'm still working on Wild Seed and Final Boarding. I've also dipped into A Field Guide to Getting Lost by the lovely Rebecca Solnit.

>151 luvamystery65: I too enjoyed reading about the origins of the Quaddies. This was definitely a fun book.

Hi, Ro. Anything show up on your front porch today?

>157 mathgirl40: I'm glad this months CultureCAT prompted me to finally get around to it.

>158 ronincats: Why yes it did. Sorry it's taken me a bit to come here and post about it. I've been at the doctor with my aunt, the vet with my dog, the mechanic with my aunt's car and the dentist for my cleaning. Only the dentist wasn't an emergency. Crazy three days! I'm actually looking forward to returning to work. That feeling will last about an hour tomorrow.



It's gorgeous Ro! The first thing my aunt Dora said was, "How beautiful! Your mom would have tried to steal it from you." I told her how much it reminded me of my mom's collection and that I really had to have it.

So pretty! I have an old blue container just a few inches taller. I have a lot of jonquils and as soon as they begin to open in the spring I cut a bunch and put them in it. Everyone that sees it gushes over it because of those colors together, the bright yellow and the dark blue are a beautiful combintion. I hope you enjoy yours as much as I do mine!

>160 clue: I told my aunt that I couldn't wait to put some yellow flowers in the spring and some orange flowers in autumn in this pitcher. Purple flower would look gorgeous too. Thank you. Roni did a fabulous job on this pitcher. I am so honored to have it.

So happy to know that it will be bringing you joy, Ro!

Beautiful! And it matches your shirt, too! ;)

Take pictures when you put flowers in it!

Beautiful!

>159 luvamystery65: Well, I said something over on Roni's thread but I don't mind repeating myself: Lovely pitcher from a lovely potter for a lovely woman. High fives all around!

That pitcher is gorgeous and seasonal flowers will make it even more fabulous!

That pitcher is beautiful, I can see varieties of yellow flowers in it.

Roberta--You scored!! Beautiful job Roni. Can't wait to see some flowers in it. : )

>162 ronincats: It is and will Ro.

>163 rabbitprincess: It does and I will.

>164 VictoriaPL: Yes!

>165 rosalita: Indeed.

>166 DeltaQueen50: I completely agree.

>167 lsh63: I can't wait to see it with some yellow flowers, but orange or purple would look really nice too.

>168 Berly: I did Kim! Ro(ni) is so talented.

I've been mourning my mother a lot lately. It's been two years since she passed, but my hands have been kept full with my aunt. I've been going back and forth between deep sadness and anger. My mom collected pitchers and I have most of her collection. We both love/loved blue, especially rich dark blues. When I saw the pitcher over on Roni's thread it really called to me. I wanted to buy it from her but she was so generous and sent it to me. I am so honored and this pitcher has brought me happy memories, which I sorely needed.

{{{{{Ro}}}}}

>169 luvamystery65:, >170 ronincats: Way to go, Roni. I'm glad the pitcher brought you happy memories of your mother, Roberta. I still miss mine, and it's close to seven years now.

Beautiful pitcher, beautiful story! I'm glad it will bring you happy memories of your mother. I still miss mine too.

Wild Seed by Octavia E. Butler

BROWN
ROOTS

#9



I finished Wild Seed and it was very good, but boy did it make me incredibly uncomfortable. One of her main characters is so amoral it truly sickened me. It's a testament to her writing, and the other main character being so compassionate that I forged ahead.

I'm not completely giving up on this series as I understand the themes Butler was addressing, slavery, racism, eugenics, and oppression. Has anyone read this entire series? Thoughts as to continuing?

The Warden by Anthony Trollpe

PURPLE
The Chronicles of Barsetshire

#10



I enjoyed my first visit to Barsetshire. Honestly, it would have been difficult to follow all the politics and manners if it were not for the wonderful tutored read that Liz (lyzard) did in 2012. I now know the difference between High Church and Low Church, what the Oxford movement was and a little bit more about the reformers during the Victorian period. True confession, I thought the High Church and Low Church were seating positions in the church based on your ranking in society. Sort of like House of Lords and House of Commons. "Good heavens!" as Dr. Grantley would say.

It's not the best Victorian novel I've ever read, but it was a nice introduction to Trollope. It's interesting to read someone who is more on the side of the church rather than the reformers, yet he doesn't completely let them off the hook.

My copy was narrated by Timothy West. I enjoyed him.

Here is a link to Liz's tutored read. The Warden by Anthony Trollope - lyzard tutoring souloftherose

>170 ronincats: Thank you dear friend.

>171 jnwelch: & >172 VivienneR: Thank you. We never stop missing them. I cherish the happy memories and it's nice to have reminders. Mom would have loved that I am adding to the collection.

>174 luvamystery65:

"Good heavens!" as Dr. Grantley would say.

:D

As far as church structure / politics go, the series gets a lot easier from here!

>174 luvamystery65: I echo your praise for the tutored read for The Warden. Like you, I came to it after the read was over but I don't think I would have gotten nearly as much out of the book without it. And now you've reminded me I really need to finish that series, doggone it. Let me know when you're planning to read the next one, and we can try to coordinate.

>176 lyzard: Whew! Good thing as I see the next book is three times as long.

>177 rosalita: Julia I have the next one, Barchester Towers slotted for April. Then one every other month if you are interested. Join me if/when you are able. I'll let you know when I start as I may start earlier or later depending on my whim. ;-)

A couple of quick reviews and then my end of the month thoughts coming up.

Lone Wolf and Cub, Vol. 3: The Flute of the Fallen Tiger by Kazuo Koike & Goseki Kojima

RED
Graphic Novels

#11



I am continuing to enjoy this series about renegade samurai Itto Ogami and his infant son, Daigoro, on their assassin adventures. In this volume, we learn a little of Ogami's past and what has led him on his path to Hell. I'm still a bit in the dark about Edo period Japan. I need to do some basic research before I continue on.

Final Boarding by A.J. Mayers

BROWN
ROOT

#12



DISCLOSURE: This book was written by my cousin A.J. I'm super proud.

This is A.J.'s fifth novel and he has continued to grow as a writer. The novel was inspired by the disappearance of Malaysian Airlines flight MH370. This is definitely a thriller. The pace gets faster as you go. There is mystery upon mystery, conspiracies, murder, treachery etc...

This is a perfect travel/beach book!

JANUARY READS

Why Read Moby Dick? Nathaniel Philbrick
Evicted by Matthew Desmond
The Breathing Method by Stephen King
The Whale: A Love Story by Mark Beauregard
Swing Time by Zadie Smith
North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell
The First Eagle by Tony Hillerman
Falling Free by Lois McMaster Bujold
Wild Seed by Octavia E. Butler
The Warden by Anthony Trollope
Lone Wolf and Cub, Vol. 3: The Flute of the Fallen Tiger by Kazuo Koike & Goseki Kojima*
Final Boarding by A.J. Mayers

ROOT: 8 books (not all in the ROOT category though)
1001 Books: 1
Categories: 8
DNF: 0

Still reading: Moby-Dick by Herman Melville and A Field Guide to Getting Lost by Rebecca Solnit

February Possibles

Mary Barton by Elizabeth Gaskell WomenCAT Orange or Brown
His Bloody Project by Graeme Macrae Burnet RandomCAT
What Patients Say, What Doctors Hear by Danielle Ofri CultureCAT
Long Way to a Small Angry Planet by Becky Chambers
Birdie by Tracey Lindberg
The Mothers by Brit Bennett
Thin Air by Robert B. Parker
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
Bleak House by Charles Dickens
Lone Wolf and Cub Volume 4: The Bell Warden by Kazuo Koike
Black Like Me by John Howard Griffin

continue Moby Dick by Herman Melville and A Field Guide to Getting Lost by Rebecca Solnit

>178 luvamystery65: It's a date, Kate! Er, I mean Ro.

The New York Botanical Garden just announced that they'll be having a Chihuly exhibit from April - October. It made me think of your thread. I can't wait to go; they'll be having day and nighttime shows.

>185 VioletBramble: Thanks for posting this, I'm going to be in NY the end of April. I've seen several of his single pieces and one exhibit at Crystal Bridges Museum and it was breathtaking. I'll be in NY with 3 friends from other states and we all are art lovers so that will be a perfect place for us to visit.

Along with numerous bookstores.

Your fourth possibility in >183 luvamystery65: would also meet the SFFCAT challenge for this month, Space Travel. It's my backup book for that challenge; I have one that has been in my TBR pile far longer that I'm prioritizing, Leviathan Wakes.

>137 luvamystery65: I finished North and South last month, but am just now getting around to writing about it. I loved it! The characters, the setting, it was all great!

>184 rosalita: "Make it so Ro!"



>185 VioletBramble: & >186 clue: How exciting! Katie is going to the Chihuly exhibit as well. I hope you enjoy and take tons of photos.

>187 ronincats: The SFFCAT is exactly why Long Way to a Small Angry Planet is on my list. It also qualifies for CATWoman as it is a debut novel.

>188 casvelyn: I saw your review. I really loved this book. I felt it was so special and I can't wait to read more by Gaskell. I've got Mary Barton up next.

My first SPAM ever and I missed it! RIP

Oh, I hope you enjoy Long Way to a Small Angry Planet as much as I did, Roberta. The second one is just as good if you do.

>180 luvamystery65: Go Ogami and Daigoro!

>191 luvamystery65: Ha! Every once in awhile they pop up in here.

>190 luvamystery65: Perfect! I named my last car after Jean-Luc Picard, actually. Or rather, my car told me its name. It was a Mazda Protégé so the Gallic name seemed like a perfect fit.

>191 luvamystery65: LOL. I have had the same luck. Which actually is okay with me. Happy Sunday!

I finished the Spenser. My review is on my thread.

You've made great progress! Well done. Glad to hear you continue to enjoy the Hillerman books - it's such a great series.

Your list of February possibles reminds me that I haven't seen my copy of His Bloody Project from the library queue yet. I'd better check to see if I'm still in line. And I really want to get a copy of A Gentleman in Moscow.

Oh, and we need to talk about San Antonio. :-)

Great reading since my last visit and like you, if my local library has an audiobook version of a book I own as a physical book, I will listen to it and count it as a ROOT read off my TBR shelves. ;-)

>159 luvamystery65: - What a beautiful pitcher!

>169 luvamystery65: - glad to see the pitcher is bringing you happy memories of your mom and it has joined the pitchers your mom collected that are now in your possession. {{{{Ro}}}}

Wow - Reading Moby Dick AND contemplating reading Bleak House!

Hi Ro - Love the pitcher.

Just stopping by to say Hi, Roberta. I'm nearing the end of Ethan of Athos, one I hadn't read before. Nice to spend time with Elli Quinn, and it's another crackin' good story from Ms. Bujold.

Missing you around here, Ro!

>192 jnwelch: I just finished The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet and I really enjoyed it. I look forward to the next one. I also read Lone Wolf and Cub Vol. 4: The Bell Warden. Wow this one was really tough.

>193 VictoriaPL: ;-)

>194 rosalita: My mom used to joke that Jean-Luc Picard was my "real" father.

>195 Berly: ;-)

>196 Crazymamie: Mamie I completely agree with you on the Spenser. My review will be up soonish.

>197 -Eva-: Thanks for popping in Eva. So glad I've read some real oldies early in the year. I just need to get back to Moby-Dick!

>198 EBT1002: Well, I don't think His Bloody Project will make it by the end of February but for sure sometime this year. Same with Gentleman in Moscow. I did go hear Amor Towles read and do Q&A. He was really interesting and passionate about his work.

I was looking forward to seeing you in SA. Sorry I won't be able to make it. If you get a chance do drive out to see the wildflowers.

>199 lkernagh: I got the idea from you Lori to listen to the audio book as a way to catch up on my ROOT. Thanks again for that idea. Well poor Moby Dick got put off. I read Bleak House for the group read and then decided I needed a break from Victorian literature. I read some non fiction and a space Opera. I'm about ready to get back to Moby Dick now.

>200 BLBera: Thank you Beth!

>201 jnwelch: Howdy Joe! Ethan of Athos is easily one of my top three of the Vorkosigan series. I've read all now, but the latest one. My favorites are in order, Memory, Barrayar and Ethan of Athos.

>202 ronincats: Ro I miss everyone too. I've been struggling with RL. It's getting better but I am easily overwhelmed right now.

Hi Ro, I've been missing seeing you around LT as wel! I saw on another thread that you loved A Long Way to A Small, Angry Planet as well. I can hardly wait to get my hands on the next book!

>205 DeltaQueen50: Judy! I think I'm going to read the next book for the May SFFKIT. I look forward to more adventures. Thank you for popping in!

Too many people have been enjoying A Long Way to A Small, Angry Planet for me to ignore it any longer. Wishlisted.

>204 luvamystery65: For some reason, I love re-reading Cetaganda, Ro. I like Komarr, too, for the introduction of a certain, ahem, important character. I love your three faves, too . . . hmm, sounds like I pretty much love the whole series. Yup.

>205 DeltaQueen50: The second book is just as good, Judy and Ro!

Happy Wednesday, Roberta! Your thread is reminding me that I need to get back to The Vorkosigan Saga - I am ready for Mirror Dance, and I remember you saying that I needed to read that one and its sequel together.

You are in my thoughts, my friend.

>207 AHS-Wolfy: Hi Dave. I think A Long Way to A Small, Angry Planet might be just the ticket for your busy schedule right now. It's really interesting, but it's not huge and overly complicated. Enjoy when you get around to it.

>208 jnwelch: Joe I love the Haut ladies in Cetaganda. I think I liked Ethan of Athos so much because some of that Cetagandan intrigue does play a role in it. I also loved Ethan. He is a wonderful character. His interaction with Ellie allows her to shine in a way she doesn't with Miles. I love Barrayar because Cordelia is just so damn fierce in this book. I also love Memory so much. After everything that happens in the series, Bujold just floored me by making Miles even more relevant. I love when an author keeps a series fresh by turning everything around. She did that while staying true to all the characters. I also loved Simon's story in Memory. Just loved it.

>209 Crazymamie: Glad to hear that Mamie! Yes do read Mirror Dance and Memory close together.

Thank you for your kind thoughts.

>210 luvamystery65: Agreed, Ro, including Simon's story in Memory. He's one of my favorite characters in the series - on a long list of favorites!

Thin Air by Robert B. Parker

GREEN
Series and Sequels

#13



Book #22 in the ongoing saga of Boston PI, Spenser. The book was okay. It suffered from a lack of Hawk. Cholo was a nice addition but he is no Hawk. It was actually nice to see that Susan ate a full meal a the Mexican restaurant, but she went back to nibbling on lettuce. Ho hum. The "victim" in this one was another blonde whore. Parker loves them. This one was self aware and trying to make something better of herself. Is this an improvement? Insert eye roll here. Time will tell. I do hope the next one has Hawk and is better. If not, I will officially abandon this series. Life is short.

Bleak House by Charles Dickens narrated by Sean Barrett and Teresa Gallagher

ORANGE
1001 Books to Read Before You Die

#14



I read/listened via Whispersync for the 75 Group read. What a treat! My narration was by Sean Barrett and Teresa Gallagher. It helped having two narrators for the alternating point of view. Overall, I think I enjoyed this Dickens more than any other I have read. I couldn't stand Harold Skimpole at all! I think I disliked him more than Mr. Tulkinghorn. I loved the atmosphere of the story. So good. Very long, but enjoyable.

Lone Wolf and Cub Vol. 4: The Bell Warden by Kazuo Koike

RED
Graphic Novels

#15



This is my favorite volume of Lone Wolf and Cub so far. The road is not easy for Ogami and Daigoro. What is he doing bringing his son along on his assassination journeys? That is a question that comes up repeatedly. In one chapter of this volume, Daigoro is left behind to await his father. It is winter and his father does not show up for days. Daigoro goes searching for him as he has run out of food and is hungry. This chapter was so tough. Also, the last chapter where a female performer seeks revenge on the man who raped her, but in doing so, brings shame onto other warriors families. Edo period Japan was very structured.

I enjoyed the various weapons employed in this volume. There was a section at the end that explained these weapons.

Citizen: An American Lyric by Claudia Rankine narrated by Allyson Johnson

BLACK
Bustle's 11 Books That Will Make You Think Even More Deeply About The #BlackLivesMatter Movement

#16



Part poetry, part critical essay, this work was thought provoking. Some things she said made me so uncomfortable. I know life is unfair for many people, but now I have to ask myself, what I'm going to do about that.

What Patients Say, What Doctors Hear by Danielle Ofri narrated by Ann M. Richardson

WHITE
Misc...

#17



I would really recommend this book to anyone that struggles with multiple medical issues (or their loved ones.) Ofri offers advice on how to prioritize your issues and get your needs addressed. She also, discusses why there are so many pitfalls in the patient/doctor discussion. As a hospital based nurse, some of the issues were known to me. I also navigated my mother's care for years. I know how difficult it is for a complex patient to receive care. I still learned a few things, that will help me as a nurse, and as my aunt's caregiver.

The Long Way to A Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers

BROWN
ROOT

#18



What a great debut novel by Chambers. This is a fun adventure of the spaceship Wayfairer. She is a tunnel ship and her crew gets the opportunity for a large contract, but it's a long haul. The territory they are headed to is fraught with unknowns and the only known is violence. The characters were well developed and it was a fun adventure. I look forward to more adventures in this universe.

The Mothers: A Novel by Brit Bennett

BROWN
ROOT

#19



I enjoyed this debut novel about the life of a church family. My favorite part was The Mothers. I think every culture has their version. They serve to build up but they can also cause destruction with their gossip. I thought the teenagers were well written.

This is what's currently going on in my reading world.

Almost done

Just stared and loving it already.

Almost done. She is so wonderfully creepy.

I'm slowly wandering through this one.

Poor neglected MD. I'm headed to the library Saturday to give some love. It's hard to read this one at home.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

>211 jnwelch: ;-)

Wow, you've done some decent reading lately, Roberta.
I've read Rough Weather by Robert B. Parker five years ago. I didn't like it that much.

Happy Friday.

Lots of books, Roberta!

>212 luvamystery65: Re: Spenser. I don't want to give anything away, but the book after the next one is worth reading for sure. It's an unusual setup and you get lots and lots of hot Hawk/Spenser action. I will say no more!

In fact, I think that's the last one I read, so if you keep going I might come along for the rest of the ride. Completely at your pace, of course.

You've been busy!! Nice.

>220 Ameise1: Barbara Rough Weather is one of the last books that Parker wrote for the series. I would imagine that even if it was good, you might feel lost with the characters.

>221 rosalita: I will take your word for it Julia, since you have never steered me wrong with Spenser. I was planning to read 4 this year. About 1 a quarter. That means Chance in the spring and Small Vices this summer.

>222 VictoriaPL: Very busy! I have a lot of classes for work coming up so that is going to slow me down. The audios help keep up my pace though.

The Lottery and Seven other stories by Shirley Jackson narrated by Carol Jordan Stewart

GRAY
Gothic/Horror/Dark Romantics/Weird Fiction (New Weird)

#20



This collection of short stories by Shirley Jackson was perfectly creepy. There wasn't an element of horror in these, with the exception of The Lottery. These were more the creepiness of everyday encounters of racism, isolationism, social anxiety etc... Jackson had a way to make everything suspenseful in the most subtle way. I really would like to read more of her short works.

The stories are "The Lottery", "Flower Garden", "Come Dance with Me in Ireland", "Men with Their Big Shoes", "Trial by Combat", "Pillar of Salt", "Like Mother Used to Make", and "Colloquy".

>224 luvamystery65: Jackson was such a great writer and I've enjoyed everything I've read from her. I wish she'd had a long life and put out many more books.

Good morning, Ro!

>219 luvamystery65: I'm glad you are liking Old Man's War. It's on the TBR list. Redshirts was fantastic.

>223 luvamystery65: Rosalita is right; Small Vices is one of the best!

Small Vices is coming up for you - another vote for it here, Ro. You'll have a good time with it.

In Lone Wolf and Cub, Daigoro learns along the way. The series is good to the last drop, IMO.

I'm also a fan of Takehiko Inoue's Vagabond series, based on the life Miyashi Miyamoto. Beautiful artwork, and a well-told story.

>214 luvamystery65:
I'm going to have to see if my library has this one (they have an extensive YA section and own a LOT of Manga, so I hope I'm in luck!).

>217 luvamystery65:
Ooh, that one looks fun - BB taken!

And continuous cheers for working on Moby Dick!!

>220 Ameise1: We read The Lottery in junior high and it freaked me right out. Looking back, I'm amazed we were allowed to read it. It was awesome.

Popping in to wish you a happy weekend!

>225 mstrust: I have been reading one a year from Jackson the last few years since I joined the Horror! group. I don't dare read more because I know I'll run out. I know I can reread but I love the initial suspense of her work. She did live too short a life.

>226 brodiew2: Howdy Brodie! I am going to read Redshirts this year for either the AwardsCAT or the SFFKIT. Can't wait. I hope Chance is okay too.

>227 jnwelch: I do see that Daigoro is learning but I'm glad they are addressing the hardships. My library doesn't have Vagabond but I'll check out the other area libraries and see if I can find it.

>228 -Eva-: I hope you can find Lone Wolf and Cub Eva. It's really a nice series so far. I don't recall if you can get Hoopla via your library. It's available there. My library has the larger omnibus but my old eyes find it too hard to read. ;-)

The Long Way to A Small, Angry Planet was great fun. I think it's right up your alley.

>229 rosalita: I read The Lottery in junior high too. It was super creepy. It still is.

>230 Sace: Hi and thanks for popping in. ;-)

I really like the cover of Moby-Dick that you chose! Looks like an old-fashioned travel poster ;)

Stopping by to wish you a wonderful weekend, Ro.

>232 rabbitprincess: That is my Penguin Deluxe Edition that I ordered from my indie bookstore. The staff was oohing and awwing my copy. It's got deckled edges and the rest of the cover is gorgeous.



LOVE!!!

>233 lkernagh: Thank you Lori and the same to you.

Congrats on your lovely copy and happy weekend, Ro.

What a lot of good reading you've done lately. The one that calls to me is Citizen. I am not a Moby Dick fan, but your copy is beautiful.

>234 luvamystery65: When e-books first came out some of my friends were so sure physical book would become obsolete. I said and still think, as time goes by physical books will become more special, books that we want to look at and display as well as read. This is the sort of thing I think will keep physical books alive, I can certainly see certain groups of people wanting this edition for the beautiful cover.

>235 Ameise1: Thank you

>236 BLBera: Citizen is fantastic Beth an right up your alley I do believe.

>237 clue: I think you've got it exactly right that physical books have become even more special. I love my keeper copies either because they are gorgeous and or signed copies.

>238 luvamystery65: LOVE your copy of MD!! That's one of the books on the March Obama list, too. Nice to hear some Spenser talk and that Hawk makes it back in to the picture. What is it with the blonde bimbos? ; )

>239 Berly: Thanks! I love my copy too. I just took a look at your Obama Reads list. Wowza!

A Room of One's Own by Virginia Woolf narrated by Juliet Stevenson

PINK
Feminist Authors and Novels

#21



"A woman must have money and a room of her own if she is to write fiction." I truly don't think I would have appreciated Virginia Woolf when I was younger. She writes beautifully and the writing was enhanced by the narration by Juliet Stevenson. She makes some very valid points about women not having the freedom or the means to write until recent history. Even writers such as Charlotte Bronte, Woolf ask, if she had owned her copyright, would it have kept her from poverty? She also makes a point that most great English male writers were both of means and highly educated. Woolf exhorts women that now that they can inherit and become educated. Now that they have freedoms, such as the right to vote, to find a way to make a room of their own and write.

Old Man's War by John Scalzi

BROWN
ROOT

#22



This is a Kindle book I've had for awhile. John Perry is 75 years old. He can now join the Colony Defense Forces. The price to pay is that he can never return to Earth again. If he lives after his service, he can retire on an off world colony. Lots of fighting, space travel and interesting genetic modification. A good debut novel. I will continue with this series.

I didn't realize Old Man's War was Scalzi's debut novel; that is a series I hadn't picked for this year, and I'll have to elevate it for next year.

Also need to read more Shirley Jackson!

Had a great time last night at the Brazos bookstore and dinner afterwards - thanks for telling me about the Glenn Frankel High Noon event, he's a very good speaker. I look forward to our next catchup when I'm in Houston!

>243 LisaMorr: Thank you Lisa! It is always such a treat to meet up with you. I'm glad we had a chance to catch up and we lucked out that Frankel was very good. See you later this year in Houston but around the threads sooner. Have a great weekend.