Mark's Reading Place: Chapter Three

Audiobook:



Graphic/Comic:


Books Read So Far...

January:

1) News of the World by Paulette Jiles 4.7 stars (E)
2) My Father, the Pornographer: A Memoir by Chris Offutt 4.3 stars audio
3) One Wild Bird at a Time: Portraits of Individual Lives by Bernd Heinrich 4 stars audio
4) Kindred by Octavia E. Butler 4 stars AAC
5) Battleborn: Stories by Claire Vaye Watkins 4.2 stars
6) Victoria: A Novel by Daisy Goodwin 3.7 stars (audio)
7) The Drunken Botanist by Amy Stewart 3.8 stars (audio)
8) The Lonely Passion of Judith Hearne by Brian Moore 4 stars BAC
9) Nutshell: A Novel by Ian McEwan 4.4 stars (audio)
10) Lady Cop Makes Trouble (A Kopp Sisters Novel) by Amy Stewart 3.6 stars (audio)
11) Rolling Blackouts: Dispatches from Turkey, Syria & Iraq by Sarah Glidden 3.8 stars GN
12) Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World by Haruki Murakami 4.2 stars

Welcome to the AAC IV! It should be another fun year. Some interesting and diverse authors.

January- Octavia Butler Completed Kindred
February- Stewart O' Nan
March- William Styron
April- Poetry Month
May- Zora Neale Hurston
June- Sherman Alexie
July- James McBride
August- Patricia Highsmith
September- Short Story Month
October- Ann Patchett
November- Russell Banks
December- Ernest Hemingway

The General Discussion Thread: http://www.librarything.com/topic/244600#

^A couple promising advanced reader copies and in honor of The Drunken Botanist, I picked up a bottle of Bulleit Bourbon. Looking forward to cracking that seal.

I know Douglas Preston is a very popular writer but I have never read him. Looking forward to this one, though. Any Preston fans out there?

Excellent toppers, Mark!

Happy new thread. You're just zooming along, aren't you?

To answer your question on your last thread, I'll be gone the 19th - 23rd. Daughter can't get more time off than that.

Happy new thread, Mark! Love your toppers!

Happy new thread! Love that snowy owl! And the intense reader! ;-)

Happy new thread, Mark!
Exellent topper, snow-white owl with golden eyes! And look at those nails!

Happy new one, Mark!

I am sure you are rubbing your hands together in anticipated glee of your vacation - lucky you!

Happy new thread! Let me know what you think of the Preston book.

Happy new thread, Mark!

Happy new thread! Enjoy your advanced copies! I like the couple Preston books I've read but I've not heard of Ingrid Thoft

Happy new thread, Mark. Love the topper.

>5 karenmarie: Thanks, Karen! You are # 1!The 19th will be my last work day of the week and then I will be off until the 31st. Yah!!

>6 Crazymamie: Thanks, Mamie!

>7 jessibud2: Thanks, Shelley! Hooray for snowy owls & intense readers!

>8 FAMeulstee: Thanks, Anita! There is a great image of a snowy owl, with deep blue eyes but I was not sure if that had been altered, so I went with the yellow and yes, huge claws.

>9 katiekrug: Thanks, Katie! I haven't had a vacation since early October, the Texas trip, so I am itching for this one, plus we are going to Arizona for a few days, to soak up some sun.

>10 drneutron: Thanks, Jim! The Preston book has been getting rave reviews. I hope to get to it soon.

>11 scaifea: Thanks, Amber!

>12 ChelleBearss: Thanks, Chelle! I had not heard of Thoft either, but Duplicity does sound good. I see that Newt Gingrich has a novel out called Duplicity too. I won't be reading that. Grins...

>13 BLBera: Thanks, Beth! Are you enjoying your day off?

Love the reading woman topper. She's so intent on her book!

>16 Morphidae: Hey, Morph! That reading image is one of my favorites. We know that intensity.

I, Too

"I, too, sing America.

I am the darker brother.
They send me to eat in the kitchen
When company comes,
But I laugh,
And eat well,
And grow strong.

Tomorrow,
I’ll be at the table
When company comes.
Nobody’ll dare
Say to me,
“Eat in the kitchen,"
Then.

Besides,
They’ll see how beautiful I am
And be ashamed—

I, too, am America."

-Langston Hughes

^From Poem-A-Day

>18 msf59: Love this, Mark. Happy new thread to you!

Great topper, Mark. Happy new one. Sending big waves (probably frozen ones because it's freezing here but from a warm heart) over the pond.

Happy new thread, Mark! I love all of the toppers! The white owl is beautiful. I'm also intrigued by the Murakami. I look forward to your comments.

>4 msf59: I have only read or listened to the Preston books that he has written with Lincoln Child. The Pendergast series. I listened to audiobooks on the first 5 of the series then lost interest. Brimstone is my favorite.

>19 AMQS: Thanks, Anne! Great to see you. Glad you like the poem.

>20 Ameise1: Thanks, Barb. Hope you are staying warm. We have rain and chilly temps. It is supposed to warm up here this week.

Congrats on the new thread. What a great poem at >18 msf59:!

>23 michigantrumpet: Thanks, Marianne! Glad you like the poem. I thought it worked well for MLK Day!

Happy New Thread, Mark!

Love those toppers!

Hey, you're reading Hard-Boiled Wonderland? Go, Mark! One of my favorites. Not easy, but really good.

I'm getting the Poem-a-Day on your rec, and was very happy to get that Langston Hughes one today.

Hi Mark. Did you miss me in >21 brodiew2:?

happy New Thread!

Love the owl - it must be a snowy?

And the poem is great for MLK day. I'm reading March: Book Two today. I wonder if our new POTUS has ever read a graphic novel. He could at least look at the pictures. But then, he'd probably just sneer about Lewis portraying himself as a comic book hero. Big sigh.

Arizona sounds good about now. -3 again this morning.

As soon as I finish with the Tearling series (this week) I will be starting Hard Boiled Wonderland myself. It is one of my real life book club selections. Then I have to finish book 4 in the Poldark series.

I watched Victoria last night and thought it was well done. Lots of palace intrigue. Upstairs and downstairs. How do you manage a Queen?

I also watched part of the finale of Sherlock. I just couldn't stomach it. I found it full of gratuitous violence and hatred so about an hour in I switched channels and watched an interview with an author of a biography of Einstein. That was much better.

#27
Did you hear that Amazon completely sold out of Volumes 1 & 2 of the Lewis graphic novels? WOW! This twitter war is going to make Lewis a hero again. And a best selling author. Again.

Happy New Thread, Mark. Love the thread toppers, as always.

Not sure if you've seen it but, by all means, check out today's NY Times article about how Obama coped with the stresses of the presidency by reading books. The title of the article is something like Obama's Secret to Surviving the Presidency: Books. I think there's also a full transcript of the entire interview conducted by the NYT's chief book critic.

I think you'll find a lot of familiar books on his list.

ETA: Article at: https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/16/books/obamas-secret-to-surviving-the-white-ho...

>28 benitastrnad: It should be required reading for every kid in America. :-)

>21 brodiew2: >26 brodiew2: I am so sorry, Brodie. I read the first post too and then got distracted. Funny, I was kidding other people for missing my posts and then I go ahead and do the same thing. What the heck?

Thanks for chiming in on the Preston/Child books. I will have to try one of those some day.

I wanted to read this Murakami for a couple of years now and on a whim, I pulled it off the shelf.

>25 jnwelch: Thanks, Joe! I have wanted to read this Murakami, off and on, for awhile now and I remember it being one of your favorites. I want to get caught up with his earlier stuff...finally.

Have you read much Hughes?

>27 streamsong: Thanks, Janet. Yep,it is a snowy. They have been spotted in Chicagoland too, wintering from up north.

Hope you are enjoying March 2, as much as I did. Could you imagine the first Trump GN? OMG!

>28 benitastrnad: Hooray for finishing the Tearling series. Do more warbling, so it gets more attention around here.
And hooray for reading Hard Boiled. I may not start it tonight but I will definitely tomorrow.

I hope to watch Victoria tonight. I have also been enjoying The Crown. You would love this one too.

>27 streamsong: - I am not a betting person but I'd put money on it that your new POTUS has never read a book, period, graphic or not. Just doesn't have the attention span or the intellect, it seems to me. Unless it's about himself, and even then.... Heck, he didn't even write his *own* book.

>29 benitastrnad: That is great news, Benita! These books should be read.

>30 lindapanzo: Thanks, Linda! I will check out the link. I love Obama & his books! I plan on watching Victoria tonight.

>31 streamsong: Amen, Janet!

>35 jessibud2: Amen, Shelley! I would have to agree with you.

>33 msf59: Yes, back in the day I read a lot of Langston Hughes. He's really good, and . . . important, I guess, is the word. He takes on the big issues, as you can tell.

^I rarely watch anything in the afternoon, it is usually devoted to books, but I finished The Lonely Passion of Judith Hearne and a nice chunk of my GN. Through my intrepid nature, I found a nice copy of La La Land and watched it. I LOVED it! The music was good. I like jazz. It was beautifully filmed and acted. Emma Stone has become a joy to watch. Easily one of the best of '16.

The Warbler keeps warbling - Happy new thread, buddy.

>39 PaulCranswick: Thanks, Paul. The Postal Warbler, despite his age, is showing no signs of slowing down.

Hey, I loved the Times article about Obama. Thanks for posting!

^I watched two coronations tonight. I saw the first episode of Victoria, or at least most of it. It was very good. Jenna Coleman as the Queen was enchanting.

I also watched the 5th episode of The Crown and witnessed Queen Elizabeth II receive her crown. This has been a very impressive show.

Along for the ride! I am crowning you King of the Warblers!!!

Hi Mark! I also watched Victoria on PBS and thought it was very well done. I'm glad to have another PBS series to watch. We also watched the series finale of Sherlock which was creepy, creepy, creepy.

I'm finishing up my reread of The Color Purple which is still excellent three decades later and then I plan to start The Unwinding and News of the World. I don't generally like to take library books with me on trips as I'd rather not carry them back with me, but I don't think I can resist this one.

I know you have a short week before your vacation starts. I hope it goes quickly and well!

Happy new thread, Mark! I love the thread toppers.

>38 msf59: Oh yay! Another fan. I went to see La La Land last week and absolutely fell in love with it.

Good morning, Mark! You will have so much time to read on your upcoming vacation that we won't know how to keep caught up with you. We also will expend large amounts of money or visits to the library with Book Bullets.

Happy new thread, Mark!

>43 Berly: I LOVE the image, Kimmers! I may have to steal that!

>44 EBT1002: Hi, Ellen! Yep, 3 work days and I am outta here!! I wonder how many episodes Victoria will run. I can't imagine many, since the book, only went to her romance with Prince Albert.

I would also like to do a reread of The Color Purple. It has been over 30 years. And hooray for News of the world!

>45 tymfos: Thanks, Terri! Good to see you!

>46 MickyFine: Yah, for another La La Land fan. My wife and her friends saw it but none of them liked it. Go figure...I thought it was accessible.

>47 karenmarie: Morning, Karen! The only thing that slows way down is my audiobooks, while on vacation, but I hope my print reading soars. I have some good ones lined up. BBs in waiting...

>48 DianaNL: Morning, Diana!

^I LOVE Murakami, but much to my chagrin, I have still not read many of his earlier works. Bad Mark? Well, it is time to start getting caught up and I will begin with Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World. I know this is one of Joe's favorites.

On audio, I will wrap up Nutshell, (it is soooooo good) and then I might start...

Morning, Mark!

I NEED to get to more of Murakami...

>49 msf59: Mark, I think my co-worker said that Victoria has 8 episodes. Mid March unless they skip Oscars night.

Sunday night is hockey night but I'll have to track Victoria down on demand.

Hi Mark! Yup, I've read a couple books by Preston. Pretty good, action filed fluff. Should be a quick read for you.

I've been watching The Crown, totally enjoying it. Also watched, Victoria! again, very enjoyable. But, yeah, two queens at one time get rather confusing.

>51 msf59: I have only read his 1Q84, but that was worth three books all by itself. Stunning, clever, challenging, and ultimately very rewarding.

Good morning, Mark!

Isn't La La Land great? I agree re Emma Stone, and even Ryan Gosling won me over. He reportedly did all that piano playing himself.

Our niece the actor thinks The Crown is the best series of the past year. We're going to watch it, too, at some point. And I'd like to see the young Victoria.

Go Murakami!

Another damp, gloomy day but at least I am not wading through snow.
The mail volume isn't too bad either, especially after a holiday...I'll stop back on my next break.

Hi Mark, we have a very chilly day with our famous freezing wind (storm) called 'bise' which drops the temperature deep down.

Howdy Mark. Enjoyed all the cocktail talk on your last thread. Perhaps Jim should create a Bar page like the Kitchen page. LOL!

All this Gentleman in Moscow talk has got me itching to read the book. I wasn't planning to read it right away, but he is coming to Houston next month. Maybe I'll take it to Vegas with me.

>52 scaifea: Morning, Amber! Yes, READ more Murakami.

>53 lindapanzo: Hi, Linda. 8 episodes? Did not expect that many. I hope you get a chance to see it.

>54 Carmenere: Morning, Lynda! I will see how I feel about this Preston NF and then decide if I will read any of his fiction.

Hooray for lots of queens!

>55 karenmarie: Morning, Karen. I also loved 1Q84. I hope I can inspire you to pick up and start more of his work.

>56 jnwelch: Morning, Joe. Gosling doing his own piano playing is quite impressive. Did you see Whiplash? Same director and the kid also learned to play the drums. Pretty awesome.

Your niece has excellent taste. The Crown is terrific.

Thanks for the tip on La La Land. Sounds like a winner. Movie bullets as well as book bullets on this thread - double dangerous!

Good morning, Mark!

>42 msf59: I watched the first hour of 'Victoria' last night and greatly enjoyed it. Jenna Coleman was excellent and, as a fan of Rufus Sewell, it was so nice to see him in a positive role. I must say Lord M. is my favorite character so far. Paul Rhys is excellent as the villainous Sir John Conroy. I can't say enough about how impressed I am with entire production.

>59 luvamystery65: Howdy, Roberta. I like The cocktail idea but not sure about having another thread to follow.

I plan on reading Rules of Civility sometime this year. I will watch for your thoughts.

Afternoon, Mark! I missed morning because I had to go to the market. I love Roberta's idea of a Bar thread!

>64 msf59: That's more like a resource thread Mark. You don't have to visit it, you just go when you need to. ;-)

>65 Crazymamie: Thank you! I kind of like the idea myownself.

>42 msf59: Don't read past the spoiler if you don't want to read political snark.

And on Friday we can watch Trump get crowned! Er... I mean inaugurated.

>67 Morphidae: - Did you see this? Speaking of political snark. I laughed - sort-of

http://www.newyorker.com/humor/borowitz-report/bush-counting-down-days-until-he-...

>68 jessibud2: Yes, I did! I laughed. In a cringe-y sort of way.

>62 streamsong: Hi, Janet! Yes, a good musical is hard to find. I hope you can see La La Land.

>63 brodiew2: Hi, Brodie! I am glad you saw the first part of Victoria. I will finish it up tonight. I like the cast and I agree, Lord M is the best character. I am not familiar with the actor playing Conroy, but he is perfect.

>65 Crazymamie: Hi, Mamie. I had no time to visit threads today but I hope to catch up on a few tonight. Hooray for a Bar Thread!

>66 luvamystery65: You convinced me, Ro! Ask Mr. Jim. I know he likes to imbibe now and then.

>67 Morphidae:



^Such a lovely image, eh, Morph?

>68 jessibud2: That is funny, Shelley! I am actually rootin' for "W"!!

^I think these clubs will become more popular, in our very near future...

>71 msf59: Eep.

>72 msf59: EEK!

Hey, there's a mouse in here!!

>72 msf59: Ugh, I sure hope not!!

>75 ChelleBearss: I am with you, Chelle! Shudders.

^I normally do not read the same author, this close to one another, (one of my Marky-Mark eccentricities) but The Drunken Botanist was NF and I have wanted to read/listen to Lady Cop Makes Trouble since it came out. I loved Girl Waits With Gun and I heard that this follow-up, is not on the same level, but I like it enough, in the early going.

This was on Facebook. I immediately thought of you and thought you would enjoy it.



Porter's Hill Wild Bird Seed Co.
"Gold finches have been absent from our yard for the last few days. This afternoon about 100 dropped in to forage on the ground and the feeders. They are starting to show the first signs the colour change back to that vibrant yellow of the summer."

>71 msf59: OH! Can we hope that the Donald can be impeached? I know Mike Pence is really right wing, but at least I think he has stable personality and won't be pressing the nuke buttons in a tantrum. Went to the library last night, but could not find a copy of The Assault that you've been warbling about. Ah oh, or has it been Paul and Joe? I've lost track!

Happy New Thread, Lone Ranger!

I don't know about reading The Drunken Botanist (although I like her fiction well enough!), but I could sure use a drink. ; ) So done with the snow!!

Hi Mark, I am watching and loving The Crown on Net Flix and last night I started recording Victoria. I'm with Lynda in finding two queens confusing so I will probably save Victoria for later viewing.

>78 Morphidae: Aw thanks, Morph. You know I like birds. Since, I do not have a thistle feeder, (I think I am going to put one up) I do not see many finches, although I do see them on the route from time to time.

>79 vancouverdeb: Hi, Deb! A couple more days before the coronation. Ugh! Honestly, I am just as afraid of Mr. Pence. Shudders...

Darryl & Paul were warbling about The Assault. I have requested it. I they can track it down for you.

>80 Berly:



^It's early, but here is a tasty cosmo, to boost your spirits, Kimmers. No snow here, just rain, so I am not complaining.

>81 DeltaQueen50: Hi, Judy! Glad you are enjoying The Crown. They are doing such a good job with it. I am not having a problem with watching them both. They both have such a different feel.

^B.A.G.

Good morning, Mark. What's *B.A.G.*?

This morning on the radio, our morning guy was warbling about a book he was reading on the subway yesterday and he looked up and had missed his stop. It's written by a local gal, apparently, and is called Birds, Art Life. He was so enthralled that he said he is going to try to get her to come on the show and talk about it. And he isn't even a birder. Needless to say, I am going to see if I can find it in the bookstores. I'll keep you posted...

Morning, Mark! TWO MORE DAYS!!!

Hang in there, only two more days!! :)

>85 jessibud2: B.A.G = Big Ass Grin. An expression of extreme delight!

Oh, and for those talking about the coronation Inauguration, imagine living in the middle of the madhouse that is the DC area right now. :)

Good morning, Mark!

It's always lively over here. I've got Amy Stewart on my Wishlist.

>88 drneutron: - Thanks for that. I was imagining all sorts of things it could stand for, some of which I couldn't print here... ;-)

My sister-in-law (in Vermont) has instructed my brother to make sure all tvs in their house are tuned to HGTV on Friday. She won't allow the BOG (big orange gasbag, appropriately coined by another LTer, lol), into their house.

I, myself, being in Canada and somewhat removed from the *emotion* of it all, will be getting my hair cut on Friday morning. I remember watching the 2009 first inauguration of Obama in my classroom. Won't be happening this time (I am now retired but that's rather beside the point). In some way, it's like a train wreck and I am not sure I could look away. But on the other hand, I can barely stand to hear his voice. I don't think I could watch without the mute button and then, what would be the point.

Last night I watched the first of a 2-part show on PBS, (Frontline) called The Divided States of America. I learned a lot and, again, being Canadian and not really knowing the nitty gritty of American politics to that extent, had no idea just how nasty and insidious the politics down there can be. Of course, I am not quite as naïve as that might sound but given what Obama had to deal with, it amazes me that he could stand the pressure and viciousness of the backlash and opposition he faced. Ugh. Tonight's 2-hour conclusion will be about the rise of trump and I am not sure I even want to watch that. (I have decided to stop capitalizing his name because I don't have that much respect for anything he stands for.) My heart goes out to Americans; it really does feel like living on a precipice....

You missed me up there (>58 Ameise1:)?

but I try it again (snif)

>85 jessibud2: Morning Shelley! I see Jim defined BAG for me. It expresses a lot in a very short space. Looking forward to your thoughts on, Birds, Art Life. Sounds interesting.

>86 scaifea: >87 ChelleBearss: Morning Amber & Chelle! Yah!!

>88 drneutron: "an expression of extreme delight." Absolutely perfect, Jim.

No, I could not imagine going in the D.C. area at this ominous time. Shudders...

>89 karenmarie: Morning, Karen. I think you would really like Girl Waits With Gun.

>90 jessibud2: Ooh, BOG is the polar opposite of BAG.

I should see if I can find that Frontline program.

>91 Ameise1: Sorry, I missed you up there, Barb. Bad Mark.

Love the dragon. Very short work week, so it is not "dragon" at all. Smiles...

Glad to hear that you have a short week. :-)

93 - Hmm. When you say BAG, it almost sounds like you are *excited* (or, worse, happy!) for Friday.... Have I been reading this wrong, all along?

(backs out slowly.....)

>84 msf59: So close....!

BAGB! (That's Big Ass Grin Back!)

>94 Ameise1: Thanks, Barb! One more work day...grins.

>95 jessibud2: Yep, Shelley- A Big Ass Grin is very happy event, unlike a Big Orange Gasbag! Strictly talking about my vacation starting on Friday, not the other thing...shudders.

>96 Berly: Hooray, for BAGB, Kimmers!

There is no better way to spend a weekend than to read an exciting intriguing book sitting in a comfortable chair with a cup of coffee at hand. Maybe some nice ambient music, but a weekend just doesn't get any better than that. Quiet, peaceful, with an air of suspense created by that special anticipation of turning the next page. That is what happened to me with the Fate of the Tearling. I have read three of these immense and intense novels in one month, and have enjoyed every minute of it. This was dystopian fantasy as it was meant to be.

This novel did not follow the dystopian fantasy model. The ending was a real twist. It was a good ending, but it was a real twist and precludes the possibility of sequels. But no matter, there is plenty of fodder to be mined in the form of spin-offs from the contents of the three novels. When those are published I will be in line to read them.

This whole series was very well done. Lengthy, but not bloated. Plots twists but not out of character for the world that was created. Characters that were lovely and hateful. Romance, adventure, and philosophy all in one series. That makes this series rank right up there with the Ancillary Justice series by Ann Leckie. This series is my first Best of 2017 entry.

I watched the first season of The Queen and liked it. I also watched the first episode of Victoria and liked it as well. I tried to watch the season finale of Sherlock and gave up after the first half hour. That show just bothers me on a deep psychological level. I find it snarky and full of gratuitous violence. Just not the show for me.

Last night I did go to a movie. I went to our local Art House movie theater series and saw Rachel Weisz in Denial. This was a great movie. Last year I had to stretch to get two movies onto my Best Movies of the year list, and this year in the first month I have one - Denial. This is a movie about what history is, and how it gets made. It is also about academe and academic freedom. There was lots of great stuff in this movie. If you can find it on Netflix get it. Next week I will see the movie version of Man Called Ove. It will be in Swedish with subtitles, but I am looking forward to it.

>98 benitastrnad: Hooray for The Fate of the Tearling. I hope to get to it next month. Sue and my daughter are also fans of the first 2 Tearling books.

I never did follow through with the Ancillary Justice books. Just the first one. Bad Mark?

I am halfway through The Crown. I am loving it and Victoria is off to a good start too.

I have heard good things about Denial. It is on the watchlist. Did you read the book Ove? It was really good.

>97 msf59: - ROFLMAO! DUH! Of course, I forgot that you leave Friday for vacation! Perfect timing, too! Here's a BAG from me too :-D

#100
I haven't read the book Man Called Ove. Yet. To many other books to read. This is one where I will have to see the movie first and then read the book.

We've got the first episode of Victoria recorded - hope to get to it in the next few days. I need to watch The Crown.

Happy almost vacation!

I put my name on the wait list at the library today for the 3 John Lewis graphic novels. Apparently, there are 47 people ahead of me. The librarian told me to expect it to be a good few weeks....At least, all 3 are in the system, and several copies of them.

Hi Mark!

>99 benitastrnad: Thank you for your comments on Denial, benitastrnad. I had been looking forward to see this, but forgot about it. I like Rachel Weisz and this looks like a some good drama.

>101 jessibud2: Funny thing is, Shelley, I was not thinking about Doomsday Friday, at all. I was being completely self-serving. LOL.

Still not watching inauguration...

>102 benitastrnad: Wish you had time to read A Man Called Ove first, but I understand. Let me know how it is.

>103 SuziQoregon: Hi, Juli! Great to see you. I think you will like Victoria and you MUST see The Crown. That one is a keeper.

>104 jessibud2: It sounds like you will eventually get to the March Trilogy, Shelley. It is an amazing achievement. I am considering buying them, for my "keeper" shelves. They are that good.

>106 msf59: - Well, I am very happy to hear that, Mark. Of course, I had forgotten about your mentioning vacation. After all, it didn't make our news as the *other* event of Friday did... ;-)

Thought you would enjoy this video of the Snowy who resides at our nature center.

https://www.facebook.com/SchlitzAudubonNatureCenter/videos/10154832675293770/

We post videos of our raptors every Tuesday if you care to follow. Lots of other great posts too.
https://www.facebook.com/pg/SchlitzAudubonNatureCenter/

>108 alphaorder: - Soooo beautiful!

>105 brodiew2: Hi, Brodie! I also want to see Denial. I love Rachel Weisz.

>107 jessibud2: So, I was overshadowed by BOG, eh, Shelley? Why am I not surprised? Grins...

>108 alphaorder: Thanks, for these links, Nancy. The snowy is beautiful. I would love to follow those videos.

Two more days, Mark (is it one by now?). Enjoy your sweet Thursday!

>111 EBT1002: Hi, Ellen! Yes, tomorrow will be a Super Sweet Thursday! B.A.G.

Morning, Mark! Sweet Thursday!!

Hi Mark, happy sweet Thursday :-)

Morning Mark! Ack! Could it possibly be Sweet Thursday, already?! Another spring like day over here, it's crazy and scary!

Morning, Mark! Sweet Thursday to you - I know this one is especially sweet. Enjoy, my friend!

Happy Dance!!! Hope your Thursday moves fast and the mail is extra light!

Heading out to the route...let's wrap up this dog & pony show.

>114 scaifea: Morning, Amber!

>115 FAMeulstee: Have a sweet one, Anita.

>116 Carmenere: Morning, Lynda. Damp, chilly and gloomy here but it sure beats snow and ice.

Sweet Thursday, Mark!

>113 msf59: Nice!

>77 msf59: Oh good, I'll look forward to hearing what you think of that follow-up to Girl Waits with Gun. It's been on my radar, as I liked GWWG, too.

Sorry to miss stopping in yesterday. Our wi-fi was on the fritz. I finished the 5th Fiona Griffiths novel, another good one called The Dead House, and I'm enjoying Hillbilly Elegy. The Rilke collection has some tough sledding, for me, anyway, but I'm getting an education.

Isn't there supposed to be a significant warm-up soon? Still pretty chilly out there this a.m. Hope your day goes okay.

Morning and Sweet Thursday!!

Morning, Mark!

>108 alphaorder: Thanks for the links! I'm also following now.

>117 Crazymamie: Morning, Mamie. Just a few more hours...

>118 ChelleBearss: Love the Happy Dance, Chelle. And yes, the day is moving along nicely.

>120 jnwelch: Morning, Joe. I do not think I stopped by the cafe yesterday either. The threads are hopping.

I am just about done with Lady Cop. Not as impressive as the first one but I do like Constance & Co.

Really enjoying Hard-Boiled. Shocking, right?

>121 Berly: Morning, Kimmers. A sweet one, indeed.

>122 streamsong: Morning, Janet. Isn't that snowy a beauty?

Good morning, Mark!

I'm a bit behind - as always :)

But your thread has just reminded me that I meant to read a couple of Murakami this year. Haven't read any since I finished the (for me) very excellent 1Q84. I think I have Colourless Tsukuru and Kafka on the shore lined up.

>125 brodiew2: Sweet Thursday, Brodie!

>126 BekkaJo: Hi, Bekka. Great to see you stranger.

Yes, read more Murakami and yes please read Kafka.

I'm with you about Lady Cop - fun to read but just not as good as the first. On the other hand, the second Ben H. Winters Last Policeman was terrific and I'm looking forward to the third one.

>128 vivians: Hi, Vivian! Good to see you. I finished Lady Cop. Not bad, just not as good as the first one. Hooray for The Last Policeman Trilogy. Have you read Underground Airlines yet? Now, that one is terrific.

^Bernie Nitro Stout! Noon Whistle Brewery.

Can you say vacation? I knew you could...

Hi Mr Mark, so when do you leave? When do you get back?

Enjoy!!

Mark, I did not know you were going on a vacation. So where are you off to?

I am heading to Hotlanta tomorrow for the ALA conference. I have already talked to Suzanne (Chatterbox) and we have set up our meeting places and I have given her some details. She is already a veteran as she came up to Boston last year for the conference, and I hope she makes a great book haul. I will be driving over, so I will have room for the boxes of books that I intend to pick up. I will probably be mailing some boxes of books for Suzanne as well. This is going to be fun.

Wow, I leave for a few days, and you have a new thread. Happy new one. I can't believe that you can almost start a new thread. Well I hope all is well with you.

Yay for vacation brew!!

Have a great vacation, Mark!

>131 lindapanzo: >132 vancouverdeb: Hi, Linda & Deb. We do not leave for Arizona until Wednesday and we will return on Monday. I will be chillin' local until then.

>133 benitastrnad: Hi, Benita! Have a great time at ALA. Remember, your best LT pal, if you see anything I would like.

>134 thearlybirdy: Hi, Birdy! Do not ignore these threads for long or you may regret it...

>135 ChelleBearss: Thanks, Chelle! I have enjoyed the vacation brews...so far...

>136 jessibud2: Thanks, Shelley.

^Yes, I am glad to be starting vacation but I am also very apprehensive...I think I am going to need my books and my bookish friends, for comfort and support, in this looming, uncertain future.

No worries, I will not get gloomy, here on my thread. I will still try to stay light and jaunty but from time to time...

Morning, Mark. I will try to be better about the threads. I do hope you have a fun time on your vacation.

Morning Birdy! Always a pleasure to see you. Looking forward to plenty of R & R, (Reading & Relaxin') on my vacation.

^Ooh, a new story collection by Mr. Murakami comes out in May, Men Without Women: Stories. Cool cover too. B.A.G.

And speaking of Murakami, I am really enjoying Hard-Boiled Wonderland, although this one might be about as trippy as he gets.

Ok I know that snowy owl wasn't here earlier...but it's very cool.

The topper? I had it from the inception. Maybe, it faded in and out. I love a snowy!

>138 msf59: - That about sums it up, doesn't it....

Morning, Mark! Of course, now I have that Janis Joplin song on my mind - "Take another little piece of my heart now baby..."

The Mount Rushmore image is just about right, I am thinking.

>143 msf59: Alright, maybe it just wasn't showing up for me. Or perhaps I'm just going crazy.

>144 jessibud2: Morning, Shelley! I wanted the right image for the day and that came closest.

>145 Crazymamie: Morning, Mamie! The Joplin is a good choice, my friend. We should pick a time today for one great big Group Hug!

>146 thearlybirdy: You are not crazy, Birdy. That is your mother's department.

>147 msf59: That made me laugh out loud! Thanks for that, Mark!!

>148 Crazymamie: We need all the mirth we can muster today, Mamie!

Truth.

>138 msf59: "I will still try to stay light and jaunty but from time to time..."

and keep the beer flowing!

Don't let ANYthing spoil your much deserved vacay!

>151 Carmenere: "and keep the beer flowing!" You sure know how to keep me happy, Lynda. Thank you!

>138 msf59: I will still try to stay light and jaunty but from time to time...

This is a good place to share your worries now and then, Mark, we all need a place to share our thoughts...

Enjoy your vacation and keep the TV turned off tonight! Books are much better than watching the Circus! :)

Another way I have protested bad political outcomes in the past is to wear red and black: red for rage and black for mourning.

I think I will do that today, too, in solidarity

Vacation! WOOT!!

Your bookish friends are here for you, Mark - we need to have each other's backs right now, I think...

>153 FAMeulstee: "This is a good place to share your worries now and then." Amen, Anita! Happy Friday!

>154 ChelleBearss: Morning, Chelle! Actually, the Circus starts here, in just 2 hours. I will be reading...

>155 jessibud2: Hooray for Red & Black, Shelley! I am just dressed in my bum around clothes today.

>156 scaifea: Morning, Amber! Yes, it is nice to have this sanctum, to find comfort in.

>157 msf59: Oh dear, I didn't realize the circus was an all day affair. Enjoy your reading!!

Have a great vacation, Mark!

By the way, last night on Chicago Tonight Phil Ponce had a segment on local sightings of the long-eared owl. Did you see it?

>158 ChelleBearss: Boo to the Circus! Yah, for the books!

>159 kac522: Thanks, Kathy. Looking forward to it. A little winter break. I missed the Chicago Tonight episode. Shucks! I wonder if I can find it online somewhere?

>160 msf59: Try looking here http://chicagotonight.wttw.com/stories-by-author

I hope you have a great vacation Mark! Just don't read the news too much today (or for the next 4 years) and you'll feel great!

>161 kac522: I think that is it, Kathy! Thank you very much. I will check it out.

Have a good vacation, Mark. Have one or five brews for me, while you're at it. Have you seen the compilation of book recommendations President Obama has made over the years? Naturally, they all are good. And I've even read some of them. Yeah, good on me!

http://ew.com/books/2017/01/18/barack-obama-book-recommendations/

Good morning, Mark! Have a great vacation!

My second audio of the year in books, so to speak. :-P Caves of Steel was an uneven ride, but had satisfactory conclusion.

What next? Conclave or Monuments Men?

>163 The_Hibernator: Good advice, Rachel. I have spent the last two hours reading Murakami. Good for the soul.

>165 weird_O: Thanks, Bill. I will be hoisting a few on this vacation. I can guarantee that. I am looking forward to perusing Obama's reading list, so I appreciate that. I know he has impeccable reading taste.

>166 brodiew2: Morning, Brodie! And thank you. I have not heard of Conclave but I would highly recommend The Monuments Men, although I would suggest skipping the film version. It is a bit of a stinker.

"Grandfather doesn't joke about things like that. If he said the world is going to end, then honest, the world is going to end."

"Unclose your mind. You are not a prisoner. You are a bird in flight, searching the skies for dreams."

-Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World

Happy Vacation, Mark!

Man, it's a sign of how busy it's been on LT that today, when I saw that, for me, you only had 48 new posts, I was relieved that it wasn't a higher number!

>168 msf59: Love it!

You know, Hard-Boiled Wonderland is SO trippy that I did hold out the possibility that you wouldn't like it. Great to hear you're having such a good time with it!

I'm still liking Hillbilly Elegy (and I think this part of our populace is really important to understand better, given the election results. I started Suspended Sentences, a Modiano rec from Ellie, and so far I like it a lot better than the one of his I read after he got the prize.

BTW, there's also is a new Murakami NF out, Absolutely on Music, "Conversations with Seiji Ozawa". I'll be picking that one up soon, for sure.

A sad day in American history. Right up there with Dec 7, 1941 and Sept 11, 2001.

This morning, I started reading Thoreau's Civil Disobedience.

>165 weird_O: I saw that Obama book recommendation list. Lots to seek out there.

>165 weird_O: - Thanks for that link. I have seen some of his recommendations before but this looks more extensive. And not at all surprising.

>169 jnwelch: Happy Friday, Joe! I will try to be a bit more active on my thread. I do not want to disappoint my pal. Grins...

In regards to Murakami, did you see my post in #141? I will have to look out for Absolutely on Music. Sounds good.

Glad you are enjoying Hillbilly Elegy! Good timing on that one.

>170 lindapanzo: I am with you, Linda. I have not turned the TV on. Maybe later this evening. I have never read Civil Disobedience. Sounds like an appropriate choice.

>171 jessibud2: Obama knows his books, right? He would fit in just fine around here.

^I know I am not going to have a lot of audio time, during vacation but I thought I would start Just Mercy. I can listen to chunks, while running errands and driving around. I have wanted to read this one, since it came out and I know a few of my LT pals are big fans. Plus, on the book page, nearly every review is 5 stars. The author narrates the audio himself and does a fine job. Not far in, but I can tell this one will be a winner.

>173 msf59: Sometimes at work, we get an assignment where we have a limited amount of time to read and then write an article explaining a newly-decided court case. Often, since we're helping out other groups on an "emergency" basis, we're not always familiar with the subject matter.

Today, I made sure I was assigned to this duty. If anyone wanted to talk about the inauguration, I said "sorry, can't talk, busy." It really kept my mind occupied for a few hours and was actually a pretty interesting case.

Enjoy your holiday, Mark.

>175 lindapanzo: It looks like you are making it through the day, a bit unscathed, Linda. Good for you. When are we getting our sun back. I miss it.

>176 DeltaQueen50: I love that graphic, Judy! Happy Friday and have a good weekend.

>177 msf59: I'm getting tired of foggy/chilly/damp, though it sure beats bitter cold and/or snow. Maybe 55 tomorrow? I hope that pans out.

Quiet weekend ahead, besides football/hockey watching. Lunch plans cancelled since the friend I was meeting is sick. Maybe I'll get a lot of reading in.

>174 msf59: Excellent choice, Mark. It may be taking me a while to finish, but its not because of the writing. The book is excellent.

>178 lindapanzo: I agree with you about the weather, but just some sunshine would be nice. A couple of hours?

We do not have a lot planned for the weekend either. Some chores, some socializing, some mourning...

>179 brodiew2: That is right, Brodie, you are also reading Just Mercy. Only 45 minutes in, but I like the narrative style.

Did somebody up there somewhere say "don't ignore the threads for very long or you'll be sorry"? Yeah, well, I'm sorry! I simply can't keep up with people. (When does it all slow down a bit?) Have a happy vacation.

I loved Just Mercy

Happy Friday Mark! Happy Vacation!

>181 laytonwoman3rd: Hi, Linda! Yes, trying to keep up with some of these threads can be stressful and tiring. I, of course am guilty, but I guess that is the nature of this place.

Thanks, for the vacation wishes. Looking forward to it.

>182 The_Hibernator: I know a few people who picked this as one of the best books that had read last year, so I am pumped, to finally be reading it.

>183 vancouverdeb: Thanks, Deb. Happy Friday!

Happy vacation!

Last night we had a Belgian/Northern France dinner at a local restaurant - paired with Ommegang beers!

Enjoy your vacation.

>186 avatiakh: Thanks, Jim! I love Ommegang. I have not had one in quite awhile. Note to self...

>186 avatiakh: Thanks, Kerry!

It sounds like you are primed for vacation, Mark. Have a good one!

I'm way behind, but intrigued by >174 msf59: - those five star reviews would tempt me too!

Now reading The Watcher - murder mystery featuring a bird watcher as sleuth. So I'm over here, telling you about it...

Wishing you a lovely break.

Happy vacation, Mark. Any plans?

>188 Familyhistorian: Thanks, Meg! Hope you enjoy your weekend.

>189 charl08: Happy Saturday, Charlotte! I think Just Mercy will be another important social commentary, much like Evicted.

Ooh, I want to hear about the bird-watching sleuth. Is it pretty fluffy?

>190 Ameise1: Happy Saturday, Barb. We are traveling to Arizona for a few days, starting Wednesday. Hope to soak up a little sun.

>191 msf59: I suppose you should get plenty if sun, Mark. Wishing you a safe trip.

>192 Ameise1: It is not going to be hot there, but we should see plenty of sun. A friend/co-worker recently retired and moved out there.

^Going on an organized bird walk this morning. It looks like another damp and gloomy one and it will probably be muddy but I hope to see some winter birds. I will back, with a full report...

Morning, Mark! Hope you birding is successful.

Morning, Mark! Happy birding!

Happy Saturday, Mark!

>194 msf59: Looks great. You have a beautiful day for it. We were just talking about how happy the birds near us are with the warm-up. Lots of bird song.

I hope your birding is successful, Mark. Have fun!

^The best part of this morning's outing, was the weather. Sunshine and 50 degrees. For late January, this was special. The bird activity was sparse, there were a few of the usual suspects but walking around in the woods for 2 hours, in these conditions, was ideal.



^We did see a goldfinch, in it's winter plumage.

>195 Crazymamie: >196 scaifea: Morning, Mamie & Amber! Had a pleasant birding walk. Thanks.

>197 jnwelch: Happy Saturday, Joe! What a beautiful morning! Enjoyed the birdwalk and hope to more Murakami this afternoon.

>198 Familyhistorian: Morning, Meg! I had been getting the birdwalk itch, so it was nice finally getting out

Glad you had fun on your birdwalk. And that your Vacation has started!! I AM going to read another Murakami this year. I think I have some in my TBRs...

>201 Berly: Hi, Kimmers! My plan is to knock out a Murakami every 2-3 months until I get caught up. Let me know which one you pick.

Thoughts While Walking

"A steel hush freezes the trees.
It is my mind stretched to stiff lace,
And draped on high wide thoughts.

My soul is a large sallow park
And people walk on it, as they do on the park before me.
They numb my levelness with dumb feet,
Yet I cannot even hate them."

-Maxwell Bodenheim

Ah, I'm glad you were out for the birdwatching with some nice temps for January. There are others they have the birding like below.

>204 Ameise1: Now, that cat is focused. Grins...

>199 msf59: That's a lovely goldfinch, Mark.
>204 Ameise1: I agree with Mark, good luck getting any of that chicken.

>204 Ameise1: This got an audible chuckle out me!

Happy vacation Mark.

Am I too late for the group hug? Sure could use one ...

>206 thearlybirdy: Happy Saturday, Birdy! Good to see you. Glad you like the finch.

>207 michigantrumpet:



Group Hugs will always be available, Marianne, when in need. And we know the NEED will be great.

Happy Saturday, my friend.

What a spectacular day for a bird walk, Mark. January days don't get any nicer than this one.

There is a a wonderful NYer article about Bryan Stevenson. I did purchase Just Mercy after I read the article as I was so impressed by him and think I will have to read the book slowly. I have bumped it out of the line as library books gave pressure but want to clear the decks for it and give it the focus it should have.

http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2016/08/22/bryan-stevenson-and-the-legacy-of-l...

>209 lindapanzo: Happy Saturday, Linda! It was 48 degrees when I was heading to Oakbrook at 730 this morning. Perfect day to walk around and all the paths were paved, so no mud.

>210 mdoris: I haven't been able to spend a lot of time with Just Mercy, but what I have heard so far, is excellent. Hope you make time for it, Mary. Thanks for the link.

>212 msf59: - Yeah, well, whaddya expect? trump and Dubya could get together on this one, methinks.....

lol!

Glad to see you are having a good start to your vacation with your birding outing.

Hello, Mark - I seem to have missed your first couple of threads but I am somewhat caught up now! I hope you're enjoying your vacation and getting lots of bird watching and reading in.

Hi Mark, I'm glad you survived yesterday and had a pleasant bird walk this morning. We have had a few goldfinches at the feeders recently. There must still be some seed heads from my Black-Eyed Susans in the flower garden because they like to poke around in there as well. I hope you see a RoadRunner in Arizona. I've never seen one in the wild. Soak up some sunshine for me. We had a day of it yesterday and some this morning; now it's raining again.

Just Mercy was in my Top Ten for 2016. I think you will love it!

>212 msf59: Don't quite agree with that one. trump could well have a mighty huge library when he is done stacked full of books about trump.

Have a great weekend, buddy.

Yay, for getting out in the great outdoors and bonus that there was no mud.

Birdwatching walk sounds fun Mark. I have been sticking to the indoor edition. The Watcher was not fluffy at all - some birds were harmed (fictionally).

>213 jessibud2: Didn't "Dubya" say he was a big reader? 100 plus books a year? I had a hard time believing it. All James Patterson, perhaps?

>214 ChelleBearss: It was a beautiful day in Chicagoland, Chelle! We even had the front door open.

>215 bell7: Hi, Mary! Good to see you. Glad you got caught up. It can be daunting.

>216 Donna828: Hi, Donna! Hooray for roadrunners! I better brush up a bit on my Arizona birds. I have not had a finch feeder in awhile but I think I will put one up, in a couple of months. The thistle seed can be a bit expensive. That is the only issue.

I can easily see, Just Mercy being a top read for me in '17.

>217 PaulCranswick: I guess that makes perfect sense, Paul. All about Trump, right? Hope your having a good weekend too.

>218 Familyhistorian: It was nice to have the warmth, Meg but extra nice to have the sunshine. We have not seen it much, in the past couple of weeks.

>219 charl08: I hope to get a record amount of bird-walking in this year, both solo and organized. I am totally committed. Glad to hear The Watcher, remains fluff-less. Grins...

>220 msf59: - I honestly have no idea. I just remember a photo of him reading to some kids in a school he visited and the book was upside down. Seemed rather appropriate to me, at the time. But even if he read only Patterson, that would probably still be more than trump has ever read...;-p

>222 jessibud2: That was a historic photo wasn't it, Shelley? Grins...

And yes, I can't imagine "T" opening a book. What a startling contrast between, "Him" and the departing president. I am sure He thinks books are "hugely"
over-rated.

>223 msf59: - SHHHHH!!!! You don't want to give him any ideas or next thing you know, libraries and bookstores and book websites might be on his chopping block! But, I suspect that before he could do such a thing, *HE* might be put on a chopping block by the millions who would never allow that to happen. Hmmm, now there's an image I can embrace.....(the latter, not the former, image!) ;-)

They are all ready crying foul at the media for misrepresenting the crowd size at the inauguration. Can you believe this? Really?

Rolling Blackouts: Dispatches from Turkey, Syria and Iraq by Sarah Glidden

The American author, along with two journalist friends, take an extensive trip to the Middle East, to interview people that have been touched by the Iraqi war. They are seeking answers, from the other side of the fence and what they learn is conflicting and unsettling. Fans of Joe Sacco, will like this approach.
At 300 pages, it is a lot to take in, at times, with it's endless interviews but there is a valuable insight, to be found here, so I give this a solid recommendation.

Wow, I haven't had doors open since October! Slightly jealous :)

I hope you have a fabulous vacation. I always got excited when visiting another state while birding. There were always new birds to add to the list! My favorite was when I went visiting Florida after having been in Minnesota for several years. I got a LOAD of new birds. Tons! I hope you have the same experience. Inca Dove! Cactus Wren! Gambel's Quail!

Morning, Mark!

>227 ChelleBearss: Back to gloomy today, Chelle, but still mild. We have got lucky this January.

>228 Morphidae: Thanks, Morph. Looking forward to our southwestern getaway. I hope my bird apps on my cellphone will help me with identification.

>229 scaifea: Morning Amber!

10) Lady Cop Makes Trouble (A Kopp Sisters Novel) by Amy Stewart 3.6 stars

Constance Kopp is back, trying to make a name for herself in the Bergen County, police department but is relegated to overseeing the women's jail. The setting is New Jersey and NYC, 1917. After a prisoner escapes, on Constance's watch...the chase is on.
The plot is a bit thin but this is about the characters and following Constance and her family, along with Sheriff Heath, are what is worth turning the pages for. I preferred Girl Waits With Gun but it is a light, fun read and there is a nifty development that happens at the end, that will spark interest in the next book.

Morning, Mark!

Morning, Mamie! Chatty today aren't we?

>231 msf59: I need to read that first one.

Lots of football watching, hockey watching, and reading ahead today. I'm reading an ER book about the Civil War Confederacy.

>233 msf59: Ha! I started A Gentleman in Moscow, and it is full of fabulous, how's that?

Rolling Blackouts looks good. I'm reading a book by a Macedonian right now My Father's Books which I like so far. I can't remember if the author mentions it or the translator, but it's talking about Ottoman Empire times and said they took non-muslim boys, converted them to Islam and made them fight in the Janissaries. So I'm thinking what is going on has a history far older than the average American is aware of.

Love the birdwatching comments. I'm reading Winter World by Bernd Heinrich and there were instructions on how to find a bird's nest in there. It's beyond stalking. ;)

>234 lindapanzo: Morning, Linda! I think you would really have a good time with Girl Waits With Gun. Hope you find a copy. Enjoy your day of sports & books.

>235 Crazymamie: Ooh, that is much, much better, Mamie! B.A.G. I hope you have as good a time with the Count as we did. He is one for the literary ages.

>236 cammykitty: Happy Sunday, Katie! Good to see you. Hope you can track down Rolling Blackouts.

And hooray for Mr. Heinrich. Is this your first? I just picked up One Man's Owl from the library. All of his books sound good.

Forever

“You tell me that I must perish
Like the flowers that I cherish,
Nothing remaining of my name
Nothing remaining of my fame
But the trees that I planted
Still are young
The songs I sang
Will still be sung"

-Johnny Cash. Written the summer of 2003, shortly before his death.

I am reading a collection called Forever Words, that Cash's son recently compiled. Strong stuff from a very gifted man. A songwriter and a poet.

>230 msf59: Usually bookstores, especially local ones, will have cheap little birding books for tourists. Also look for a tourist trap type store, they have them too.

Something like Birds of Arizona or Birds of the Southwest or something smaller.

Looks like I will have to add Just Mercy to the list. It's actually there, but now I will be *committed* rather than just 'interested' in reading it. (The new phrase from the motivational book I am reading.... :-) )

Love the goldfinch. I haven't ever seen one. I wish I had remembered my group's bird walk on Saturday when my other plans fell through. Do you keep a life list?

And .... another book bullet: Rolling Blackouts: Dispatches from Turkey, Syria and Iraq sounds so perfect for my global reading.

Happy Sunday, Mark!

>276 FAMeulstee: Good. I'll get to Rolling Blackouts at some point. I'm about halfway through the ginormous Sandman Omnibus. I also started Monstress, which I'm enjoying more than I expected. I didn't like one of her novels a whole lot, but this GN is intriguing.

Suspended Sentences is well-written, but another exercise in torpor for me. This will be the last Modiano for me, I expect.

Happy Sunday, Mark.

>239 Morphidae: Thanks, Morph, for the bird book ideas. This will help.

>240 streamsong: Hi, Janet. Since I am on vacation, my audio book time is limited, but I can't wait to get back to Just Mercy. This is going to be a good one. Yah, for the committed!

The goldfinch are even more beautiful when they the males get their summer plumage. I will post an image. And yes, I have started a Life List, but I need to update it a bit.

>241 jnwelch: Happy Sunday, Joe! See if you can find a library copy of Rolling Blackouts and then you can dip in and out of it.

For some reason The Monstress fell short for me, despite it's gorgeous illustrations. I know many people loved it, so maybe it was just me?

Not familiar with Suspended Sentences. Torpor... you say? I have not read Modiano.

>242 thearlybirdy: Howdy, Birdy!

A couple library acquisitions, along with a tasty beverage. Darryl & Paul's warbling, ensnared me on The Assault and how could I not be lured in by a title like One Man's Owl? I am hopelessly vulnerable...

>245 msf59: One Man's Owl has a beautiful cover, Mark, and I hope you enjoy The assault as much as I did :-)
(And what is the toy Postal Service car doing there, hidden message or just work?)

>246 FAMeulstee: Hi, Anita! The postal vehicle is just a trademark. That is all. Looking forward to the Owl book.

Glad to hear you also loved The Assault. Hope to get to it in a couple of weeks.

>247 msf59: And we are very glad that you are hopeless vulnerable: wouldn't have you any other way!

>248 Berly: Wipes at a stray tear...Thanks, Kimmers. You da best.

^Due to the melodic warblings of Mamie & Joe, I decided to start The Mammy. It immediately sweeps you in...Like I mentioned up there- hopelessly vulnerable.

Good timing too, because the friend I will be visiting in Arizona is Irish and a reader, and will LOVE this book. I will pass it on to her. Spreading the book joy. It is what I do...

Beers from the Sierra Nevada Brewery have been recalled, Mark. Hope that's not what you're drinking. Something about glass breaking off from the bottle and causing injury.

There's a really good book about birders I read a few years ago called The Big Year by Mark Obmascik. It was made into a funny movie of the same name starring Steve Martin.

>226 msf59: I agree with you, Rolling Blackouts is an interesting read though I wondered if Glidden's expectations for the book were met. At times it seemed like the journalists had made it awkward for themselves by bringing Dan along with them.
I've just picked up a couple of interesting GNs from the library, The Age of Selfishness: Ayn Rand, Morality, and the Financial Crisis by Darryl Cunningham & The Realist by Asaf Hanuka.

>251 lindapanzo: Hi, Linda. Sorry about your Pack. I am not sure what happened there. Just dominated by the Falcons.

Fortunately I do not drink Sierra Nevada. Whew!

>252 arubabookwoman: Hi, Deborah. Good to see you. I had heard about the film. Someone on one of my bird walks was talking about it. I did not realize The Good Year was a book too.
I will have to check it out.

>253 avatiakh: Hi, Kerry. I liked Rolling Blackouts but it was not an easy read and I agree with your about Dan. That was awkward.

Always interested in Gn recs, so I will be watching for your thoughts.

>254 msf59: Seemed to me that there was little hope for the Pack shortly after the game started. They had a good season. Not too disappointed.

The Pack played their hearts out, the last 2 games. That Dallas game was amazing. Maybe it just wiped them out.

>257 msf59: Won 8 in a row. Every one was a must win or else they wouldn't have made the playoffs, or continued in the playoffs.

They need help on defense. A great team can pick them apart.

Not a big fan of Atlanta or New England. Maybe I'll just watch for the commercials.

>257 msf59:, 258

The last 8 games were a great ride! Jordy is truly amazing, playing the way he did today. I guess they just didn't have it.

I am looking forward to reading Birds Art Life. You might too.

>258 lindapanzo: >259 alphaorder: I had forgot that it was 8 games. That is an impressive stretch. Rodgers and Nelson are incredible.

>259 alphaorder: Happy Sunday, Nancy. I will have to keep an eye out for Birds Art Life. Sounds good.

I picked up One Man's Owl from the library.

Morning, Mark!

Good morning, Mark.

>261 scaifea: Morning Amber! Yah, for Mondays off!!

>262 thearlybirdy: Morning, Birdy! Now, I know where you get your nickname! Smiles...

>263 msf59: That's exactly right.

>264 thearlybirdy:

>265 msf59: :)

>259 alphaorder:, >260 msf59: - re Birds, Art, Life...as I type, the news is on the radio. And right after the news -- an interview with the author! It was our morning radio guy who I first heard about this book from and he said he was going to try to get her in to talk. And now, voila, 5 more minutes to go! If I am able to find it, I will post a link to the interview once it's done. They sometimes do that, on the show's website.

>267 jessibud2: Morning, Shelley! Yes, let me know if you can find it the link. I just checked on Amazon and they want almost 18 bucks for the book. I will bide my time, but it does look like a lovely little book.

>269 lunacat: Love it, Jenny. This is officially the start of my vacation, so no slump over for this guy.

^Hooray for lefties! Anyone else out there a lefty? We are a special breed, right? Of course, Obama is a lefty and Trump is...well, not.

>271 msf59: - Yes, I am! ;-) Yay!

"If the right side of the brain controls the left side of the body, then only left-handed people are in their *right* minds!

I once had a t-shirt with that written on it! :-)

>268 msf59: - So far, no link up on the site yet. It was a nice interview. And yikes, the book IS expensive, even here!! I'm going to see if the library has a copy yet

Yep, lefty!

Morning, Mark!

>269 lunacat: LOL!

Enjoy the official start of your vacation, buddy. I didn't expect those NFL games to be so lopsided yesterday, especially Green Bay-Atlanta. Our Pittsburgh part of the clan is disappointed, I know.

>272 jessibud2: Yah, for a lefty! That would make a good T-Shirt! LOL. I do not want to request anything from the library, until I get back in town, but I do plan on requesting it.

>273 DianaNL: Hooray for a lefty, overseas!

>274 jnwelch: Morning, Joe! Happy Monday! Compared to last week, these playoff games, were not as exciting to watch. Usually these 2 are the best of the post-season.

Hope to spend some time with The Mammy today.

Happy vacation Mark!
>271 msf59: I'm no lefty (only politically), but my husband is left-handed :-)

I am a proud Lefty. As is my wife and son. ;)

Hi Mark!
Happy vacation!
Life in the slow lane:
I was bird watching this morning - as I do every morning from my back windows and deck looking out over the cove. I noticed all the birds/ducks/geese seemed to be in a bit of turmoil as opposed to their normal calm, orderly morning routines. Then I noticed a huge bald eagle soaring around. Most of the birds scattered - even the waterfowl. The eagle landed in the top of a tree (of course) and sat quietly looking around. The next thing I saw was about 3-4 bluejays flying over to it making threatening passes. Really???
Those blue jays are feisty! Ha! The eagle was unimpressed. Order was restored once the eagle moved on... An interesting show :-)

Hope you enjoy One Man's Owl.

>278 -Cee-: I was so absorbed in your story I actually went looking for the like button!

Nice review on Lady Cop Makes Trouble, Mark. I, too, preferred the first in the series, but was pleased enough with this sophmore effort to continue on in the series.

Enjoy the start of your vacation. Go Pats!

>276 FAMeulstee: Thanks, Anita! And hooray for your lefty husband!

>277 mahsdad: Now, that is a great and rare trinty, Jeff. Very cool. I was the only lefty in my family and I am the only lefty in my own little family. See? Special.

>278 -Cee-: Thanks, Claudia! That is a great bird story! I wish I had as much bird activity out my backdoor, that you are blessed with. Bald Eagles are finding their way into Chicagoland, but mainly along bigger rivers.

It might be awhile before I can bookhorn in One Man's Owl, but I will try.

>279 Morphidae: I think we all look for that "like" button at times, Morph.

>280 michigantrumpet: Morning, Marianne! Good to know you liked Lady Cop Makes Trouble, as well. I am hoping for a stronger effort in the 3rd one, especially with Norma on board.

And yes, Go Pats! Because we are friends...Grins.

I didn't know you were a lefty! Love 'em!

>271 msf59: Trump is...well, not.
Just don't lump him in with us righties, okay?!

>271 msf59: I am... sort of lefthanded. I write righty but eat lefty; play sports and anything strength-related is lefty while art and music tends to be righty. No idea why. But I call myself left-handed :)

Good morning, Mark! Disappear for the weekend and miss 100 posts. Yikes!

>220 msf59: Ouch! 100 books a years seems like a lot for a president, but I guess it depends on an individual's absorption rate. Say what you will, but W. is an intelligent man.

>271 msf59: Lefty right here!

>282 msf59: I think I will be rooting for the Pats in the Super Bowl, but not strongly. Only one reason not to. Ahem.

>286 brodiew2: I always thought that W was smarter than people gave him credit for. 100 books a year doesn't seem out of the question, though, somewhat tougher for a president with his busy schedule.

>287 lindapanzo: This Washington Post article reports "W" read 95 in 2006, 51 in 2007, and 40 in 2008. See http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/12/29/AR2008122901896....

The easiest version of some of the books to read to glance through appears at this post (although it isn't complete): http://www.omnivoracious.com/2009/01/george-w-bushs-reading-list.html

>279 Morphidae: Haha... glad you "liked" anyway, Morphy :-)

>281 msf59: Keep your eyes open, Mark. You just never know what you will find - even in a city. I once saw a Golden Eagle sitting on a highway sign in the middle of Boston! Yes it was alive and I could hardly believe my eyes.

>283 scaifea: "I didn't know you were a lefty! Love 'em!" Yah!!

>284 lauralkeet: "Just don't lump him in with us righties, okay?!" No problem, Laura! I do know how to distinguish... Smiles.

>285 bell7: No worries, Mary. I am not a true lefty either. I eat and write lefty, but I throw, golf and bat righty. Go figure, right? I am a complete mutt.

>286 brodiew2: Thanks for catching up, Brodie! And hooray for being a lefty! Anyone, that reads a hundred books a year, will automatically impress me. Just sayin'...

>287 lindapanzo: I think I'll be rootin' for the Falcons, Linda. They haven't been here often.

>288 thornton37814: Thanks for the perfect clarification, Lori. I must have remembered the '06 numbers. LOL.

I am not a fan of Karl Rove but I think it was cool that the president and him had a reading challenge every year.

>289 -Cee-: Great birding suggestion, Claudia. We saw an Mexican Eagle, land on a sign-post, when we were in Galveston last year. Not as cool as a Golden, but still...

Hope you are enjoying your vacation! Have you left on your trip yet?

Mark--When is your poetry month read? : )

Nevermind--Got it! April.

After some enthusiastic responses on my thread, I have started a President Obama Reading Challenge and wanted to make sure the Poetry month coincided with yours. : )

Here's the link!

https://www.librarything.com/topic/247375

Morning, Mark!

Good morning, Mark, and Happy Tuesday!

>292 ChelleBearss: It has been perfect so far, Chelle. Thanks. We leave for Arizona on Wednesday afternoon.

>293 Berly: Hi, Kimmers! A President Obama Reading Challenge is a fantastic idea. I will have to stop over and I hope to participate.

Remember, we have a Poetry thread on the 75, that many of us post on. Just sayin'...

The link: https://www.librarything.com/topic/243801

>294 scaifea: >295 thearlybirdy: Morning Amber & Birdy! Big Hugs to my pals!