Whisper1 First Thread of 2022

My name is Linda. I joined the 75 book challenge group in 2008. I've met so many people, who like me, love books. 2021 was the first year most of the books I read were those from my shelves.

I confess to owning approximately 3,000 books. I'm slowly going through my books to give away those I know I will not read. Thus far, I gave approximately 500 books in 2021.

I very much enjoy illustrated books that bring joy when I see the incredible art work, and the accompanying text.

I anxiously await reconnecting with old friends, and making new ones.

Happy New Year To All!

Happy New Year and happy new thread, Linda!
And All the best for your health - I will think of you.

Happy New Year, Linda. I hope 2022 brings you pain relief.

Happy New Year, Linda! Hope this year is the year you're pain free! So glad to see you back for another year of book sharing.

Happy new thread and new year, Linda! Good wishes going forward for a year of no pain!

Welcome back for another year of reading. I hope 2022 is a great one for you!

Happy New Year, lovey! All good wishes and hopes for a wonderful 2022 for you!

Happy reading in 2022, Linda, hoping the pain will be gone next month!

Happy new year! Hopefully one with less pain

This group always helps me to read; welcome back to the group, Linda

BOOK #1 of 2022



What the Heart Knows written by Joyce Sidman with illustrations of Pamela Zagarenski

I discovered the incredible illustrations of Pamela Zagarenski in 2021. This book is stellar. It contains beautifully written words that accompany the art work. Joyce Sidman is a two- time Newbery award winner.

Coupled with the incredibly illustrated works of two-time Caldecott award winning Zagarenski.

Reading this book which contains chants, blessings and beautiful poetry.

Highly recommended.

Four Stars

>2 SirThomas:>3>4>5>6>>7 alcottacre:>8>9 Thanks to all who sent such wonderful wishes. This is indeed an incredible group.
>10 PaulCranswick: Paul, I really like the notation regarding How To Read More. It fits this group so well.

Happy New Year to All!!!!

My goal this year is to read more illustrated books, and to return to reading young adult books. I have hundreds of each of these categories.

Here is more illustration by Pamela Zagarenski. She is stunningly amazing!

Welcome back and happy 2022 reading to you!

>Thanks Lori. I hope this year brings lots of books, and time to read them.

BOOK #2 IN 2022


Zola's Elephant written by Randall De Seve illustrated by Pamela Zagarenski

Lush illustrations accompanied by stellar text. In this book, `A girl by the name of Zola is new to the neighborhood of another girl who longs to have her friendship.

Imagining that Zola already has a best friend -- a large elephant for a playmate -- and thus the little girl is hesitant to reach out and she thinks Zola has no room for her.

As the girl who longs for company imagines the elephant that Zola owns, her thoughts are rich and brilliant.

This is yet another incredible illustrated book highlighting the thought-provoking way in which a little girl's mind is highly rich and beautiful.

When the neighbor reaches out to Zola, she is amazed that Zola does indeed crave friendship.

Five Stars

BOOK #3


The Night Children by Kim Reed

I found this book at the top of one of the piles of young adult books that I own. I hate to dislike a book as I know the author places themselves out into the world with the hope their writing was worth reading. But, I really didn't enjoy, or even like this book. The plot of a huge, mega mall placed in what was a rural, poor area, that is run by a father/daughter team started as an interesting concept, quickly spun into a tunnel of no where.

There are children plucked from the crowds, or lost when they walked away from a parent's control.

These children roam the huge mall and all the expensive stuff they cannot resist!

Gangs form within groups and there is a challenge regarding which group will successfully be in charge of the many night children some of whom like living in the mall.

The book simply imploded mid way. The ending was quite trite. Sadly, this is not a good representation of quality to adult people who like young adult books.

>17 Whisper1: Thanks for visiting Susan. My goal in 2022 is to be able to spend more time visiting threads. I send wishes for a year of reading, and the hope there is time to accomplish reading goals.

HI Linda, You inspire me by reading so many books from your shelves and then finding homes for them. I will be visiting your thread to see some of the beautifully illustrated books you show.

Hi Linda, and Happy New Year! Here's hoping 2022 brings you the proper pain management you need.

To quote you from my thread: I think of you and send continued prayers for good health.

Hi Linda. Happy New Year!

I'm dropping off my star and hoping for a better 2022 for everyone!

Happy new year, Linda!

Happy New Year! I flipped through some of the pages of What the Heart Knows in the Amazon preview, and that art really is beautiful.

>20 mdoris: Hi Mary. Thanks for stopping by. I note that you also enjoy illustrated books. I'll be checking your thread as well.

>21 karenmarie: Hello Karen. I was told that if the trial pump worked, then the permanent one will as well. The statistics note an 80% success at relieving severe pain.

>22 EBT1002: hi Ellen. I agree, It's been a tough year for so many. And your wish for everyone is perfect!

>23 curioussquared: Hi Natalie. I am anxious to learn of your wedding plans. All good wishes.

>24 _Zoe_: Hi Zoe. Pamela Zagarenski is fast becoming one of my top illustrators. It's so good to see you here!

Hi Linda - I wish you success this year in reading and culling some of your children's books. I have a fair few myself and I still want to read most of them but only want to keep the special ones.

Happy 2022, Linda! Your reads are always so beautifully illustrated, I’m looking forward to seeing what you find this year.

>11 Whisper1: That one looks lovely! And my library has it. (Your touchstone points to the wrong book)

>11 Whisper1: Too bad my local library does not have a copy of that one. It looks lovely!

>16 Whisper1: Ditto

>17 Whisper1: Too bad about that one, lovey. I hope your next read is better for you.

Here's to a better 2022 with great books and friends. : )

Have a happy New Year Linda!

Happy New Year, Linda. Praying for a healthy one for you. I like your topper. And thanks again, for the gift books throughout the year. You are so kind.

Happy New Year and happy new thread!

Happy New Year, Linda! I am hoping that 2022 is full of fabulous for you. I always love the illustrations that you feature throughout your threads.

Happy first Monday of 2022,Linda.
Looks like you're off to a fine start where books are concerned. Well, at least 2 out of 3, ain't bad.

Happy New Year, Linda!

I hope it’s a wonderful one for you with significantly reduced pain.

Linda, I am so happy to reconnect with you. Your thread has always been delightful with all the lovely illustrations you post. It is my calming place!

80 per cent sounds like a very good chance for getting some pain relief. My husband has a pinched nerve in his back and will probably have to have surgery this year. The PT and spinal injection he got a few weeks ago don't seem to have helped. I know you have suffered greatly over the years and need relief. Keep us posted, please. I wish you all the best.

>26 avatiakh: Hi Kerry. Many thanks for stopping by!

>27 Copperskye: Hi Joanne..So good to see you here. I note from your home page that Dinner at the Homesick Restaurant is one of your favorite books. I loved this book! It set me on the trail of reading most of Anne Tyler's books. Sadly, I fell the latest books cannot compare to her earlier ones.

>28 alcottacre: Hi Stasia. I hope to visit your thread more often this year. I hope 2022 is healthy for you!

>29 Berly: Hi Kim. I wish a year of great books, with lots of time to read them!

>30 SandDune: Hi Rhian! I hope your year will be a good one!

>31 msf59: Hi Mark. I think your grandson is so cute!

>32 foggidawn: Same to you!

>33 Crazymamie: Thanks Mamie. I've discovered artistry in so many lovely illustrated books. Pamela Zagarenski is one of my favorites!

>34 Carmenere: Thanks for stopping by Lynda. I saw the photos of you and Will baking and cooking. What a delight!

>35 jnwelch: Thanks for your kind words Joe. Because the trial for the infusion pump was so successful, I know I can move forward with a lot less pain when the permanent pump is installed February 4.

>36 Donna828: Hi Donna. I'm sorry to hear that your husband has a pinched nerve in his back. My experience with injections is after awhile, they simply do not bring relief. I'm anxious to hear what type of surgery the doctors recommend.

The Zagarenski illustrations are lovely, Linda. I'll look for those books.

>25 Whisper1: Hi Linda -- we actually got married last August! You can see some pictures on my last thread of 2021 :)

>30 SandDune: Hi Beth I have a few favorite illustrators. In addition to Zagarenski,

Gennady Spirin
The Fan Brotherrs
James LaMarche
Nelson, Kadir
Pinkney, Jerry
Santore, Charles
Wiesner, David

>39 curioussquared: Natalie, I apologize for my confusion. All good wishes for a long and healthy marriage!

HI Linda,
I would love to know your top 5 illustrators. You said you have a list!
i have given it some thought and I do have a few but they are now kind of old school and maybe not as current. Love love love Wiliiam Steig, Bill Peet, Shirley Hughes, Quentin Blake, Shaun Tan, and the fimo artist Barbara Reid (Canadian). I'm sure there are many more.

Oops, I see you have already done that in >40 Whisper1:!

Oh my goodness and more.....Raymond Briggs, Edna Miller (Mousekin series) Janet Ahlberg, Tomie de Paola, Don Freeman, Eric Carle, Ludwig Bemelmans, Clement Hurd (Goodnight Moon and many more) and of course my new find Oliver Jeffers.

Hi Linda my dear, i have just dropped my star off here my dear friend.

>42 mdoris: Hi Mary. I am so glad I found your thread. I've listed some of my top illustrators in message 40. There are so many excellent artists. It is difficult to list them. If you haven't discovered Gennady Spirin, I highly recommend him. He is incredible.

Thanks for stopping by!

>44 johnsimpson: Hi John, Diane Keenoy and I had an hour long phone conversation tonight. Of course, she mentioned your name. She is going to have a thread this year. I cannot wait. So many of her recommendations are spot on for me.

Happy New Year!

BOOK #4 IN 2022


The Man Made of Stars written by M.H. Clark and illustrated by Lisa Evans

Every night when the sky is richly painted with lush shades of pink, blue and gold, there is a man who carries a bag on his bag and a lantern in his hands.

The little boy has seen him walking in the forest, the young boy longs to know the secret of the man who walks were the forest and the field meet.

Scattering stars from his bag, the man tosses them liberally up, up in the sky.

One night, the young boy meets the man who scatters the stars, and learns that each one is named for a specific emotion, kindness, love and happiness.

The man who scatters the stars, gave the boy the brightest star to throw high into the sky. Thus, a new star is born, one that the boy will recognize because it holds a very special emotional part of the boy.

This book contains exquisite illustrations, accompanied by a lovely tale of a boy who learns that he holds the secret of the stars, and that when he is kind, and loving, he discovers that his small acts have wonderful consequences that live on in the light of the world.

BOOK #5 in 2022


Silence for the Dead by Simone St. James

This book contains mystery, paranormal experiences, romance, and post traumatic stress. Simone St James handles all these topics into a book crafted with excellent character develop, and written in a way that keeps the reader wanting to follow each page, hoping the end will not occur soon.

On a lonely, remote area, high on a hill overlooking the far away sea. Falling apart, the Portis house now is a home for men who suffer mental illness after the horrors of WWI.

Physically and emotionally abused by her father, Kitty Weekes, falsifies credentials as a nurse and lives in the lonely castle.

The pipes are leaking, the walls are carpeted with thick black mold, and there are certain areas in the castle where loud, haunting noises are heard.

As the men hear the voices and noises they become more agitated and angry. Acting out, they feel the need to harm each other.

Kitty feels over her head and unable to deal with the men who suffer, especially when voices tell them to harm.

This is the first book I've read by the author, and I will search for more.

This year began with the tale of "Stinky" the ferret. My grand daughter Kayla worked in a pet store. For her graduation gift, she asked that we take home this ferret who was strategically placed in a large cage by the cash register. $425 later, the ferret, his large cage, food, dishes and a water bottle came to home with us.

Knowing nothing of ferrets, I soon learned they are energetic, then sleep a lot, love company, and are sneaky little devils that can get into a lot of trouble.

I posted on a thread that I discovered he bit a hole in my Estee Lauder make up container. When I discovered a beige face, I immediately went to the bathroom counter. Sure enough, after many trials, he found what he wanted. He loves to hide snacks and has favorite toys. We found five of his small dinosaur animals neatly placed in a row in a closet on top of a shoe rack.

Speaking of shoe racks, he shimmed up the shoe rack located on the back of my bedroom closet. Five pairs of shoes were scattered randomly on the floor. His goal was to get to the sneakers so he could chew a bit of the soles. He succeeded.

Last week, he suddenly became very sick. I thought it was from the sneaker expedition. Finding a 24-hour emergency vet 30 minutes from our house, grand daughter Kayla, who loves him so very much, rushed him to the vet while I called to say she was on her way. On the way, his breathing was labored and she feared he wouldn't make it to the destination. When she arrived, the vet literally ran to the car to bring him inside quickly.

After tests, hydration and oxygen, it was determined that he has a disease known to ferrets wherein the stomach produces too much bacteria which then causes bleeding ulcers. The vet knew he was getting better when he pulled out the needle for hydration, and bit though the oxygen tube.

I didn't know how attached we were to the little critter, until we almost lost him. He is home and back to his wayward manners. He seems more affectionate.

I thought retirement meant less stress -- I was wrong.

>48 Whisper1: Hamsters were bad enough, the ferret sounds formidable!

Not less stress, just different.

Linda, thank you for sharing the adventures of Stinky! It sounds like he is bringing lots of excitement to your life!

Hi Linda
It sounds like your year is off to a busy start! Your ferret adventure made me smile over coffee this morning.

>48 Whisper1: when he pulled out the needle for hydration, and bit though the oxygen tube. Sounds like he’s a handful!

Congratulations on your new addition and I'm glad to see the little fellow is back on the road to good health. Just in case, hide your books!

>48 Whisper1: Oh, I am so happy he's better and back home!! Good morning, Linda!!! I'm baaack... thanks for the encouragement!

>48 Whisper1: He sounds like a handful! Glad his medical mishap turned out okay. My brother wanted a ferret when we were growing up, but Mom refused (on account of the smell, I think).

Morning, Linda! Happy Tuesday.

>50 curioussquared: What Natalie said. I greatly enjoyed reading about Stinky's adventures and am glad that it had a happy ending. This would make a great children's story.

>49 quondame: Susan, you are right about retirement being not less stress, but different stress. My days at the university were filled with near constant multitasking. I think email did me in. My job was to be with students, it seemed that administration did not understand that our goal was to teach, advise and help students.

Truly, I am not exaggerating to say that there were constant emails, each one expecting a prompt response. Since I'm retired, I do not regularly check email. Amen! One big stress gone!

>50 curioussquared: Natalie, the vet told my grand daughter his name should be spunky. He is very curious. Last week a package arrived in the mail. When he saw the package, he recognized it was something new and climbed all over it while trying to find out why it was there and what it was. Ferret's are highly intelligent, and along with that is a huge amount of energy.

>51 jayde1599: Jess, I'm glad his adventure made you smile over your coffee. He recently learned how to climb up the outside of his cage. Standing on what he must think is the top of the world, he tries to navigate his water bottle to hang upside down. I feel like there is a child in the house, and we need to child proof everything. We do not let him run free. He is quick, and can slink out the door before you shut it, not knowing he escaped.

Then, when there is a crash, boom, I know he got out!

>52 SandDune: Rhian, Yes, you have good description of him.

>53 Carmenere: Lynda, I laughed out loud at your "hide your books comment."

>54 Dianekeenoy: Diane, I am glad you are back. And, I added many of your books to the tbr pile.

>55 foggidawn: Foggidawn, my grand daughter washes him each day. And, while he hates it, once a week he gets a bath. She holds him, I scrub. His glands were removed before we purchased him.

>56 Crazymamie: Mamie, as someone who loves children's illustrated books, I have to agree with you. The adventures of Stinky the Ferret coming to a theatre/book store near you!

BOOK #6 in 2022


Fly High! The Story of Bessie Coleman by Louise Borden and Mary Kay Kroeger with illustrations of Teresa Flavin

Picking cotton in the hot weather in the fields of Waxahachie, Texas was not where young Bessie Coleman wanted to be. She had dreams that would someday lead her away from the toil. She walked four miles to and from a one room schoolhouse where she learned to love numbers. She loved to read as well, and twice a year a wagon containing books came to the small town. Her mother used money earned from ironing clothes to buy books for Bessie.

Bessie's father abandoned them, leaving them with very little but the love the family had for each other. Growing up was difficult because Bessie had dreams of leaving. Attending school at the Colored Agricultural and Normal University, helped to set Bessie's dreams even higher.

Bessie moved to Chicago where she could find various jobs. Knowing someday she could be somebody, In 1919, the war brought soldiers home to Chicago who talked about the trenches of France. Bessie heard tales of women in France who could fly planes. Now, she knew her goal was to become a pilot.

Bessie did indeed learn to fly. The planes she used were dangerously made of unsafe materials. Bessie learned to fly in air shows. Wherever she went, her message was that people could escape from poverty and they could make something of themselves. Bessie took lessons in France, Germany and Holland. She continued to hone her skills until she was a well-known aviatrix.

Her mantra to all was "You can be somebody! Just like me!"

Sadly, it was in Jacksonville, Florida where Bessie took a shabby, old plane for a test ride. When it crashed, Bessie fell from the sky, and no longer could tell people to be somebody. But, her example lived on, and her story of a poor cotton picking little girl who walked far to school, and who set a goal of becoming someone lives on today.

Your thread is always so beautifully colourful, Linda.

Hope all is well. x

>59 PaulCranswick: Thanks for your kind words Paul. I simply love the beauty of illustrated books. And, often, I learn a lot about people I've never heard about.

>60 Whisper1: I discovered a few short years ago (and it wasn't overly long too) the power of pictures as well as words, Linda.

I avoided art class as much as possible in school even being excused to do extra English by a particularly doting teacher, but my son's proficiency is art has made me wonder whether I missed a trick or two?!

>58 Whisper1: Beautiful pictures Linda!

>47 Whisper1: Adding that one to the BlackHole. Thanks for the review and recommendation, Linda!

>48 Whisper1: I am sorry to hear about your and Kayla's scare with the ferret. I hope all is well now.

>58 Whisper1: A great lady, and I love the illustrations!

BOOK #7 OF 2022


Smoky Nights by Eve Bunting with unique illustrations by David Diaz

Set in the time period of the 1994 Los Angeles riots, a young boy and his mama look out the windows down to the streets filled with smoke. People are rioting, looting, burning. Angry this carry baseball bats, carry TVs, and anything they can obtain from the stores.

In the distant light of fog, the riots appear far and near. How can they leave? Where can they go? Sadly, across the street, the store of hardworking Mrs. Kim watches helplessly as stacks of food are taken away from her. She did no wrong; why are these people so angry and taking her hard earned stock?

As the rioters move to another location, one man remains in the street, under a pile of plastic holding clothes over him. The dry cleaner store is a mess of dirt and piles of plastic.

Inside, the building is burning. As Daniel and his mother escape, he realizes that his cat is not with him.

A shelter is found, but Daniel is heartbroken . When a fireman enters the shelter with the his cat, and that of his neighbor. Previously his neighbor did not like Daniel's cat, and Daniel's cat did not like the cat of the neighbor. Now, all is well.

This is another example of the beauty of illustrated books that tell remarkable stories. This is about a riot, an ensuing fire, and fire that leads to displacement of innocent people most of whom do not know each other. A young boy, a strong mother, a moveable feast of characters walking through the darkness and smoke of a fire that could harm; the people in the street could harm, but they move on, leaving behind a group that must relate in order to live.

A boy who loves his mother and his cat. Where is the cat through the fire? Daniel must move on with his mother and people of the building, but he needs to know about his cat. His cat is very special, and it must survive. Another cat and woman in the building who do not seem to relate to the boy and his cat are moving along as well.

And, then a firefighter arrives, two cats in his hands. His life is more than putting out fires. His life is about reclaiming love and hope in a time of danger. He stands in the doorway, when all is scattered and scared, and he brings concrete answers to a frightening, angry world. 'Here are your cats! They were together, under the steps!'

And, the woman who didn't like the boy and his cat, and the boy who didn't appreciate her cat and her, come together. Amid the turmoil, there is love and hope. While the story may seem simplistic, there is an overwhelming sense of caring and goodness through the dark night of fire and anger.

Linda, I'm talking about playing with dolls over on my thread and the theme is girl (6-12) protagonists, eponymous preferred, in books from 1985-2005 and thought you might remember some.

>65 Whisper1: Thanks Susan..I'm heading there now!

>65 Whisper1: Adding that one to the BlackHole! Thanks for the review, Linda.

>65 Whisper1: Hello Friend Stasia. I think of you so often and our lovely times together.

>48 Whisper1: Glad to read about Stinky, Kinda, and happy he is alright now.
Pets can give so much joy in our lives, and some stress, but that is well worth it!

>70 FAMeulstee: Hi Anita. I mentioned you in Joe's thread. Noting how much your recommendations regarding young adult books sent me on a wonderful journey.

Stinky is an affectionate name my grand daughter calls him. Actually, he isn't stinky, she keeps him very clean. I know you love animals, and I think you will understand the feeling I had last night when the ferret was zooming around the bedroom, door closed so he did not do his usual badgering of Lilly, trying to get her to play with him when she wants nothing to do with a ferret sniffing her fur.

It is interesting to observe that the ferret zooms around in a frenzy of activity, chasing his plastic balls, batting them in a corner and then biting them to get them out where he can continue to routine.

Suddenly, all his energy was gone. He came to me and I picked him up. He placed his tiny head in my hand. I pet him round and round and he fell asleep right in my hand As I held him, I marveled at this small creature of life. Everything seemed so proportional -- His little legs, sharp nails, flat stomach, protruding nose, and quiet softness.

I thought of the mystery of animals and their lives, the way they are programmed, their personality traits...and I smiled.

>71 Whisper1: what a sweet moment! The image of Stinky trying to play with Lilly makes me laugh, even though I'm sure she's very annoyed :)

>71 Whisper1: - As I held him, I marveled at this small creature of life. Everything seemed so proportional -- His little legs, sharp nails, flat stomach, protruding nose, and quiet softness.
I thought of the mystery of animals and their lives, the way they are programmed, their personality traits...and I smiled.

I love how you describe this, Linda. I have often thought the same thing, as I observe my own pets over the years. Animals truly are a wonder, and though I hate to say it, humans can be a real disappointment sometimes, but (I find, in my experience), animals seldom are.

Shelley, Yes to your comment about animals and their nature compared to humans, is so very true.

Animals ask for so little, and give so very much.

Grand daughter Kayla is prone to anxiety attacks. She told me that since Stinky came into her life, she is calmer.

He loves her so much. When she comes in a room, he automatically turns his head and his eyes affectionally look at her. I may sound weird, but it is true.

>69 Whisper1: I dearly hope we will have more!

>71 Whisper1: Little furry friends are such delights. I'm happy not to be allergic to dogs. Rodents, ferrets, foxes and cats can make me very miserable.

>71 Whisper1: How sweet, Linda.

>74 Whisper1: The dogs did the same for me, as the ferret does for Kayla now. They lowered my anxieties, and took me home when being outside became overwhelming.

Linda, I love your stories about Stinky the ferret. My kiddos had gerbils, hamsters, and a Guinea pig but we never had a ferret. Looks like we missed out on some fun adventures.

>48 Whisper1: So glad your cute and troublesome little ferret made a quick recovery! Sounds like a fun handful. : )

>71 Whisper1: How cute that he took a nap on you!

And, as usual, I enjoy all the pictures and summaries of the wonderful books you read.

>75 alcottacre: Stasia. I have such high hopes that the surgery on February 4th will allow me more freedom. The idea of living without this high level pain is almost too good to believe. But, the trial worked, and I am quite sure this will work as well.

>76 quondame: Susan. I'm glad you can have non allergies to dogs. Lilly is so very sensitive. I love her so much. When Will died in April of 2019, she became very depressed. They had an interaction every morning when he came down the steps, she waited for him. He sat on the bottom step and said "Oh, Lilly, my Lilly, Lilly dog/pollywog, the best dog in the hole wide world. For a long time, she waited for him, head turned to listen for his footsteps.

When I took her to the vet and said I thought she was depressed, he agreed. He gave various herbs to help her. We all still miss him, but the initial shock and longing has abated.

>77 FAMeulstee: Anita, it is amazing how animals are so very sensitive. I remember vividly when I obtained a social work degree, it was stressed that people who harm dogs or any animal are indeed very scary, narcissistic and prone to harm humans. I cannot wrap my mind around harming an innocent animal, or person!

>78 Donna828: Donna, thanks for visiting here. Ferrets must be watched. They are incredibly intelligent and noisy. Interestingly, when ever he enters a room and finds something new, his curiosity is sparked. For example, a box of books arrived and I placed them in the living room. He walked past, turned his head suddenly, and ran toward what he thought was a new play thing.

They can get into small spaces of danger, such as the area around pipes. Or squeezing themselves between the washer and dryer, and not able to get out. We really have to keep an eye on him always. He is predictable, and in every room, he consistently enters, runs around, and knows what he wants, such as a closet or bathroom door that he will scratch to get it open. He also goes under every single piece of furniture. And, when very excited about something new, he actually jumps in the air sideways.

He makes us laugh, and brings joye, but he can drain the energy of anyone trying to rest. He has special toys that he hides. The vet told us to never leave our keys where he can get them, as they love shiny objects and will hide the keys where you won't find them.

>79 Berly: "Sounds like a fun handful" is a perfect description!

BOOK #8 of 2022


These Precious Days: Essays by Ann Patchett

Given to my from a dear friend as a gift, this is indeed a book to savor every essay. Some essays were long winded, and I had to struggle to get through them, and yet, it certainly was worth to wait to read a missive that literally took my breath away from the beautiful subject and incredible writing.

There are a few entries dealing with the loss of a parent of a very special friend, wherein she captured the emotions so very eloquently.

I believe this will be on of my top favorites of the year!

BOOK #9 of 2022



The Memory Coat by Elvira Woodruff with illustrations by Michael Dooling

I've always been fascinated with Russian history. When watching a netflix movie titled The Last Tsar, I was reminded of the bloody revolts, and the ineptitude of Tsar Nicholas II, who did not want to rule, did not know how to rule, and in the end his life and that of his family came to a bloody end. His father, Tsar Nicholas I , at the beginning of the 19th century felt entitled to have the Cossacks randomly ride into Jewish settlements and kill. In fact, Tsar Nicholas I during the first part of 1900, listed 600 anti Jewish decrees. The author of this book provides a trove of information regarding the harshness of life of these pheasant people who eeked out a living. Many families lived in the same small wooden homes.

This is a story of Russian families who pulled together as much as they could in order to escape. Their escape destination was the United States. Two cousins, Rachel and Grisha lived together with Rachel's family. Sadly, Grisha lost his mother, and the only remaining thing he has is a raggedy coat she made for him.

When the family came to Ellis Island, they tried their best to look presentable, to look as through they could indeed not be a burden to the American population. Grisha wanted to keep his coat. In order to look presentable, he had to turn it inside out.
Tragically, many families were split apart at Ellis Island.

This is a story of many things, the harsh life of Jewish people in Russia, their determination to live without fear of being killed, and escaping to America. Once again, a well-written children's illustrated book explains historical experience woven into an understandable story of two Jewish children and the fears experienced in Russia. And, then the hope of going through the lines of Ellis Island and staying together as an intact family.

I firmly believe these excellent books that weave historical context to children, might spur them to learn more.

>81 Whisper1: That is already on my WL.

Hope you have a wonderful weekend.

>83 figsfromthistle: Hi Anita. I hope your weekend is good!

BOOK #10 OF 2022


To Capture What We Cannot Keep by Beatrice Colin

This book was on one of my book shelves for awhile. I randomly chose it, and I'm glad I did. I finished it in one day.

The background is Paris France 1887-1889, and the plot is intriguing. Gustave Eiffel with his engineers are building an iron structure. It towers higher and higher, and looks like a magical structure of light, a building without any outer structure. It causes some to marvel, and many to call it an atrocity.

Weaving historical detail with a cast of characters who depict Paris, France in the time of struggling artists in their new, brazen form titled impressionism.

Paris is a mix of the upper class who dress to impress, while severely looking down upon the poorer lot. Juxtapositioned are prostitutes, opium dens, and an aura of sexuality. By the end of the book, the reader sees Paris as a fascinating city, with a severe undercurrent of seediness.

There are street beggars, people whose lot in life was suddenly changed by the end of a job, a death of a husband, and those who simply were not born into a higher echelon and have no means of ever fitting in with the rich and powerful.

The plot twirls around true-to-life characters of Gustave Eiffel, who is the main engineer of the tower is and his co- engineer Émile Nouguier both are famous for designing the architectural structure titled the Eiffel Tower, built for the 1889 Universal Exposition in Paris, France.

Emile falls in love with Scottish born Caitriona Wallace, a woman whose life is forever changed when her husband dies. All too soon, her finances are dwindling, and thus she takes a position of chaperone to two very spoiled young adults whose uncle funded their trip to Paris with the hope his nephew would become less immature, and his niece would find a suitable wealthy man to marry.

When Cait meets Emile Nouguier, both are drawn to each other. Alas, this is a tale of a woman of a much lower social status, and a man who desperately wants to break tradition and claim her as his wife.

While overall, the plot is marvelously woven, but, there seemed to be too much frivolous information that took away from what could have been a beautiful masterpiece.

Recommended.

3.5 Stars

Happy Saturday, Linda. It looks like we are both loving some of the same books. I finished the wonderful When Stars are Scattered & I am nearing the end of These Precious Days: Essays. Patchett Rocks!!

Hi Mark. I enjoy your photos and stories of your very lovely grandson Jackson! Before becoming a grand mother, people would tell me there is nothing like this experience.. They were right. When first grand daughter, Kayla, was born, our lives were first and foremost revolving around this marvelous child.

Hi Linda!

>48 Whisper1: Yay for Stinky the ferret. >71 Whisper1: Awww, how sweet that he came to you to be picked up.

>80 Whisper1: The trial worked! Hurray! February 4th can’t arrive soon enough for you, I’m sure.

Hi Linda my dear, hope that you are having a good start to the weekend, we have had a nice and steady day keeping nice and warm as it has been foggy and cold outside. Sending love and hugs from both of us dear friend.

>88 karenmarie: Thanks, as always for your kind words.

>89 johnsimpson: Hello John! It is cold today. One day this week it was nine degrees. Tomorrow snow is predicted.

I am making a dedicated effort to read a lot of the hundreds of illustrated books I own. It is a cold night, with snow and sleet predicted for tomorrow. It will be a good reading day.

Tonight, I read the following:
All of these books are written or illustrated by people that are new to me.

Tikki Tikki Tembo retold by Arlene Mosel with illustrations by Blair Lent

A simply beautiful rendition of The Princess and the Pea retold by John Cech with stunning illustrations by Bernard Oberdieck.

Little Wolf's Song written and illustrated by Brita Teckentrup

Not Another Tea Party written by Mark Shulman with illustrations by Vincent Nguyen.

The Glorious Flight by Alice and Martin Provensen This is a Caldecott Medal winner.

I will write reviews tomorrow. For now, I simply want to document what I've read.

I got behind on reviews last week but I did get caught up. I'm trying to better at keeping up this weekend.

Catching up on your thread a little, Linda, and hope you're having a good weekend! Kayla's ferret sounds like a handful, but one who also brings a lot of joy.

>92 thornton37814: Hi Lori. I am behind on reviews, but tomorrow will be a good day to try to work on this.

>93 bell7: Hi Mary. We had a lot of snow today which started at mid afternoon and keep coming down through this evening. It is a beautiful snow, one that lights up the outside. And, now that I am retired, I do not have to go out in it.

BOOK NUMBER 11 of 2022


Tikki, Tikki Tembo by Arlene Mosel with illustrations by Blair Lent

This is not an educational illustrated book, and there isn't a lot to take away from it, other than the lovely illustrations.

The story is of two boys, the older boy is more revered than the second. When the second brother falls into the well, despite the mother's every day warning, the oldest boy finds the old man with a ladder who assists the recovery.

Later, it is the eldest who falls into the well. The smaller child runs to find the man with the ladder. Because the oldest son is more revered, his name is much longer. The second child is smaller and in his excitement, cannot pronounce the entire name of his brother, thus leading to delay.

After he is recused, his name is now shorter.

BOOK NUMBER 12 Of 2022


It's a Secret writing and illustrations by John Burningham

This book made me smile throughout. The illustrations and the creative story go together well. The premise is delightful, and I very much liked the illustrations.

This is not an educational book, but is is sheer fun! Marie Elaine asked outloud where the family cat goes every night, to return early morning the next day. One summer evening, she sees Malcolm the cat all dressed up, standing by the cat door. Malcolm was going to a most important party. Marie Elaine could join him if she made herself small enough to fit through the cat door, and if she had a party outfit.

Going out the cat door, Marie Elaine's brother spotted them both. He too can come along with the same stipulations. The cat told them to beware of the troublesome dogs, but he had a way to escape them by climbing up a fire escape, walking over a huge construction site steel structure, and climbing down by rope.

When they arrived at the rooftop party, all the cats were dressed to the nines. Complete with hats and balloons, as well as very fancy clothes, they danced the night away.

When the Queen of the Cats arrived, there was much excitement. Then, they ate a midnight special meal. Everyone was given a present to take home.

Walking home the same was as the came, the next day their mother asked where everyone went last night. "It's a secret was the answer.

This book is held together by the illustrations. The story is simple without the funny, original art work.

BOOK NUMBER 13 OF 2022


No Star Nights by Anna Egan Smucker Paintings/illustrations by Steve Johnson

No Star Nights is a story of Pittsburgh, PA, known as a steel town . At night, the skies were alight with the bright lights from the flames of the bars of steel as it came off the production line. In addition, the smells and the dust pervaded. And then, smoke clouded the skies, and the dust settled throughout the town.

This story is told from the perspective of a child whose father worked various shifts in the Pittsburgh Steel Mill. She notes, the sights of the men who worked with her father, as they came out of the mill, lunch boxes and thermos bottles in hands. Driving at night, as the family came home from an outing, the black silhouettes were encased in black clouds of smoke.

These mills created many well-paid jobs for both college educated who worked in the offices, and the working folk who directly produced the end product. In the small town of Pittsburgh, there were Fourth of July parades with clowns, balloons, cheers and the mayor of the city riding in a large car throwing candy to those on the sidewalks in the parade route; there was an aura of down home closeness.

Life was good, but living with the dust, chemicals and, as as the author notes, there were nights when it seemed like a giant lid covered the valley. On those nights, no stars were visible, only the smoke and glow from the blast furnaces.

As a personal note, I lived and worked in Bethlehem, PA . While I worked in a local university, many people I knew had family members who worked in the steel factory. The steel factories produced a lot of high paying jobs, for both the executives who worked in the offices, and the blue color workers who produced the steel. The benefits were great, and the pay was high in relation to other area jobs. Now, like the Pittsburg mills, Bethlehem Steel is no longer functioning.

And similar to the skies of Pittsburgh, Bethlehem also had "no star nights." Both towns are different today. As the author notes in her description of Pittsburgh, today the skies are clear. The stars are visible. Most of the workers have left to find other jobs in other places.

Again, as a personal note, part of where Bethlehem Steel existed, is now a Casino. Many thought Pittsburgh and Bethlehem could never function without the mills. As the author notes, when grandchildren return to Pittsburgh, they talk about their stories of the long nights when the skies were clouded.

This is a story of years gone by in the industrial age of America.

This is another example of a children's illustrated book that teaches history of a time gone by, never to return.

Judy and I happened to go to Pittsburgh a few years ago for a conference.

Such a clean bright well-scrubbed city. Flowers everywhere. The sun shining. The rivers clear. Rapidly on its way to being a major tech hub.

Nice to see a city re-invent itself so successfully. But people clearly remember those "no star nights"

Happy New Year Linda, I am not sure how I managed to miss starring your thread.

Glad the Patchett essays were a hit for you.

>98 magicians_nephew: Hi Jim, I've also been the the lovely downtown area of Pittsburgh. And yes, people in Pittsburgh, Sparrow's Point and Bethlehem live with residual health issues. Though of course, the high rate of breathing problems that the now older previous workers live with, are not attributed to the chemicals that were cloaking the air.

BOOK #14 OF 2022


The Princess and the Pea Retold by John Cech Illustrated by Bernard Oberdieck

Many are familiar with the classic Hans Christian Andersen tale of a young woman who was walking in the forest with her family, became lost, and knocked on the door of the castle. While attempting to find a princess for their handsome son. Agreeing to keep the young woman overnight, the Queen called the maids and footmen and ordered them to build mattresses high, so high the young woman needed to climb a ladder to get to the top.

The queen placed a small pea between the bottom mattress. When the guest complained of the inability to sleep, it was determined that this was a princess worthy of their son's hand in marriage.

The illustrations are beautiful. The clarity and colors are crisp and clear.

>99 Caroline_McElwee: Hi Caroline! Welcome. Thanks for visiting.

BOOK #15 in 2022

Little Wolf's Song by Beitta Teckentrup

Delightfully rendered, this is a book for children, but also those like me who enjoy stories I've never heard when I was little, and now as an adult, I appreciate the artistry of brightly colored birds who follow little wolf.

Little wolf cannot howl like his siblings. And, naturally he is made fun of. Feeling sad and dejected, he takes a trip into the woods. He gets lost and is very upset. Now the darkness enfolds him, and snow is falling dramatically as he looks up in the sky to see huge, bright moon. Seeing the magical moon, he feels ready to try to howl once again.

He is successful. When he howls, his father finds him and takes him home.

This is a lovely book for a small child! The little wolf gains a sense of empowerment!

Little Wolf's Song sure sounds like something, Jackson will like.

BOOK #16 OF 2022


Not Another Tea Party written by Mark Shulman and Vincent Nguyen (Illustrator)

I use the word fluffy to describe this book. Hillary is a brat. Her way or the highway would be her mantra. Her rules are strict, and she is overbearing. As the story unfolds, her usual group of tea party members now includes a chameleon. Her adds color to the party. One by one, her group has had enough of her bossiness and rudeness.

They leave, and Hillary looks out the window to see the cast of characters all getting along and laughing without her. She must either stop her nasty ways, or sit at the sidelines.

She decides to participate and change.

This is a good book for young children who experience bossy friends and long to find another friend.

Two Stars

BOOK#17 of 2022


FDR and Lucy by Resa Willis

When they married, Eleanor Roosevelt and her cousin Franklin Delano Roosevelt loved each other deeply. Eleanor was pregnant with their first child when they returned from their honeymoon.

Their childhood experiences were very different. Franklin was babied and spoiled by his mother. On the other hand, Eleanor's mother was quite adverse to Eleanor and was very cruel to her. She was quoted as telling Eleanor that she did not understand where this ugly child came from! Her name for her stoic insecure daughter was "granny!"

Eleanor's mother was a society woman, and exceedingly beautiful. Her father loved little Eleanor, but his addiction to alcohol ruined the family. A divorce resulted, and while Eleanor could visit her father, when he left her alone for many cold hours on the steps to his prestigious club, the family forbid any further interactions.

All her life, Eleanor held her father in esteem. Her childhood led to many insecurities that she could not overcome. Thus, when she discovered love letters from Lucy to her husband, her life seemed to fall apart. By all accounts, she never forgave Franklin, and their marriage would remain a match of intellect, but any sexual interactions were not part of the relationship after she bore FDR five children, and certainly not after his relationship with Lucy.

Franklin's mother ruled the home and their relationship. Bossy, nasty, controlling, the very rich mother held the purse strings. She bought and decorated their properties, and when I visited the Hyde Park, NY mansion a few years ago, the guide made a point of showing that his mother's room was right next to her "grown baby."

The children, in particular their son James, wrote of the tenuous relationship of his parents. He understood his mother's hurt and inability to forgive. Time and time again, he saw his father reach out his arms to hug Eleanor, whereupon she coldly walked away.

James notes that his mother was very adamant about wanting a divorce. His grandmother told both that they would remain married, or else all funds would be stopped. The firm rule was that Franklin could never again see Lucy. He agreed to these terms, but as this book reports, he never lived up to that commitment.

Lucy was Eleanor's social secretary, and they worked together daily. Soon after finding the letters, Lucy was not a part of her everyday life.

Grieving the loss of her love relationship with Franklin, Lucy married and had by all accounts a very successful marriage. She helped to raise her widowed husband's children, and they had a daughter, Barbara. Lucy was fond of her husband and the children.

Anna, Eleanor and Franklin's first child, was responsible for arranging the meetings of her father and Lucy. Images of FDR during post-WWII photos, show a very thin, deep socketed eyes, and tired man. After the Yalta conference with Churchill and Stalin, he came home to die. Lucy was with him when he took his last breath.

Hi Linda! Lovely books you've read so far. I've got These Precious Days on my wishlist, thanks to you.

Glad your Stinky made it through his illness successfully. It is so awful when your pet suddenly becomes ill. Except for one afternoon of harboring a ferret in my office at work (many years ago) I've never spent any time with one. That one afternoon though, was fun. And smelly.

I think with animals that it is the fact that they can't tell us what the trouble is that is so stressful. Thank goodness for veterinarians - they are the geniuses of the medical world as far as I am concerned. How impressive it is to me that they know so much about so many and quite different species, can successfully treat them all and not one of their patients can talk.

Hi Linda! I loved These Precious Days as you did. I listened on audio and loved hearing it in her voice. How fun that you are reading through your piles of kid books! I just finished cataloging all my read books and now I have shelves of kids books to do. And all my TBR piles, just to make sure I entered those. Happy Friday!!

>81 Whisper1: I loved that one too!

>82 Whisper1: Adding that one to the BlackHole.

>85 Whisper1: That one too.

Just popping in to wish you a wonderful weekend, Linda!

Also following my friend Thomas in wishing you a lovely weekend, dear lady.

Hi Linda. As always, I enjoy meandering through the lovely book illustrations with you. I picked up my copy of These Precious Days a few days ago. I think I will read the essays a few at a time so as to savor them. I do love Patchett's writing.

>106 Whisper1: I must be living under a rock because I had no idea that FDR and Eleanor had such a sad marriage. I felt very sorry for both of them. Your last line was perfect.

Dear Linda, I think of you often, but I'm not here for more than minutes each day and have neglected you dreadfully. I'm sorry.
I'm happy to learn that there is a Stinky in your life. I'd say, "Poor Lilly," but I believe that pesky little critters are gifts to more mature animals as they are to us. I hope they both continue to thrive!

I have read the first volume of the _____? Eleanor Roosevelt biography. I'll have to look it up and come back, but I do recommend it enthusiastically.

I'll be thinking and doing more than my usual praying for you as the 4th approaches. You will do well!

ETA: Blanche Wiesen Cook wrote the ER bio.

>107 Fourpawz2: Hi Charlotte. When grand daughter Kayla asked to have the ferret, it was with the stipulations that it be de scented, that she would take full responsibility, and she needed to clean any mess he made. Thus far, she stuck to the commitment. I am happy to say that "Stinky" does not stink.

>108 Berly: I imagine listening to Ann Patchett's voice was a treat. There were a few essays that brought tears. I haven't read any of her other books, but vow to do so.

>109 alcottacre: Hi Stasia, just like ole days, we continue to add to each other's TBR lists.

>110 SirThomas: Thanks for visiting!
>111 PaulCranswick: Same to you Paul!

>112 Donna828: Hi Donna. While the condition set forth for Eleanor to remain in the marriage was that Franklin would discontinue a relationship or meeting with Lucy. Sadly, he did not live up to the promise. And, thanks for your kind comment about my ending sentence.

After Eleanor discovered the indiscretion, she paved a life of her own. She was active in many movements, and was way ahead of others regarding civil rights.

Here is some information that I found at a link from the Roosevelt Library:

"In January 1939, Howard University petitioned the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) to use its Washington, DC auditorium called Constitution Hall for a concert to be scheduled over Easter weekend that year. Constitution Hall was built in the late 1920s to house the DAR’s national headquarters and host its annual conventions. It seated 4,000 people, and was the largest auditorium in the capital. As such, it was the center of the city’s fine arts and music events universe.

Telegram to John Lovell, Jr. of Howard University
Eleanor Roosevelt to John Lovell, Jr. of Howard University. February 26, 1939.
However, in 1939, Washington, DC was still a racially segregated city, and the DAR was an all-white heritage association that promoted an aggressive form of American patriotism. As part of the original funding arrangements for Constitution Hall, major donors had insisted that only whites could perform on stage. This unwritten white-performers-only policy was enforced against African American singer/actor Paul Robeson in 1930. Additionally, blacks who attended events there were seated in a segregated section of the Hall.

The organizers of Marian Anderson’s 1939 concert hoped that Anderson’s fame and reputation would encourage the DAR to make an exception to its restrictive policy. But the request was denied anyway, and despite pressure from the press, other great artists, politicians, and a new organization called the Marian Anderson Citizens Committee (MACC), the DAR held fast and continued to deny Anderson use of the Hall.

As the controversy grew, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt carefully weighed the most effective manner to protest the DAR’s decision. Mrs. Roosevelt had been issued a DAR membership card only after the 1932 election swept her husband Franklin Roosevelt into the presidency. As such, she was not an active member of the DAR. She initially chose not to challenge the DAR directly because, as she explained, the group considered her to be “too radical” and “this situation is so bad that plenty of people will come out against it.”

Rather, Mrs. Roosevelt first led by enlightened example. She agreed to present the Spingarn Medal to Marian Anderson at the upcoming national convention of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). And she invited Anderson to again perform at the White House, this time for the King and Queen of England when they came to the United States later in the year. But as the weeks went on, Mrs. Roosevelt grew increasingly frustrated that more active DAR members than she were not challenging the group’s policy.

Roosevelt Resigns from the DAR
On February 26, 1939, Mrs. Roosevelt submitted her letter of resignation to the DAR president, declaring that the organization had “set an example which seems to me unfortunate” and that the DAR had “an opportunity to lead in an enlightened way” but had “failed to do so.” That same day, she sent a telegram to an officer of the Marian Anderson Citizens Committee publicly expressing for the first time her disappointment that Anderson was being denied a concert venue.

On February 27, Mrs. Roosevelt addressed the issue in her My Day column, published in newspapers across the country. Without mentioning the DAR or Anderson by name, Mrs. Roosevelt couched her decision in terms everyone could understand: whether one should resign from an organization you disagree with or remain and try to change it from within. Mrs. Roosevelt told her readers that in this situation, “To remain as a member implies approval of that action, therefore I am resigning.”

Groundbreaking 1939 Lincoln Memorial Concert
Mrs. Roosevelt’s resignation thrust the Marian Anderson concert, the DAR, and the subject of racism to the center of national attention. As word of her resignation spread, Mrs. Roosevelt and others quietly worked behind the scenes promoting the idea for an outdoor concert at the Lincoln Memorial, a symbolic site on the National Mall overseen by the Department of the Interior.

Interior Secretary Harold Ickes, himself a past president of the Chicago NAACP, was excited about such a display of democracy, and he met with President Roosevelt to obtain his approval. After the President gave his assent, Ickes announced on March 30th that Marian Anderson would perform at the Lincoln Memorial on Easter Sunday.

Fearing that she might upstage Anderson’s triumphant moment, Mrs. Roosevelt chose not to be publicly associated with the sponsorship of the concert. Indeed, she did not even attend, citing the burdens of a nationwide lecture tour and the forthcoming birth of a grandchild. However, she and others lobbied the various radio networks to broadcast the concert to the nation.

What an incredible woman Eleanor Roosevelt is!

I read the first biography in a series of three written by Blanche Wiesen Cook.

I am like a bee wanting honey from a specific flower in that I keep coming back to the branch of learning when I find a topic I like.
I continue to read a lot about this Eleanor! She was quite a woman! Case in point, when Franklin developed polio, his mother told him his political career was over. Eleanor in fact supported her husband's desire to pursue political endeavors.

>113 LizzieD: It is always a delight to hear from you Peggy. As I noted in the above message to Donna, Eleanor was indeed a fascinating woman. I'm not sure if she ever forgave her daughter, Anna, for arranging meetings between FDR and Lucy.

BOOK #18 OF 2022



The Burglar by Thomas Perry

I don't know how to even start with a review. I was bored throughout, but finished it. The story line is a young woman who lives her life by stealing. Entering high end homes and robbing them is what challenges her. When she robs the home of a home that appears empty, she found three dead bodies, all in sexual positions.

The life of the burglar is rather boring as she tries to discover who killed these rich people. There's not much to write about.

I cannot recommend it.

BOOK #19 OF 2022




Let There Be Light BY Archbishop Desmond Tutu with illustrations of Nancy Tillman

Dazzlingly beautiful! The story of the beginning of God's creation is filled with creatures, butterflies, globes of light, sunrises, a sky of beautiful blue, exquisite waves of turquoise blue, capped by pure white.

And to quote the author "Now God decided to make the world even more dazzling with tall trees and grass.." The sky is filled with sun and moon, and then the stars appear in the sky in the form of beautiful creatures. The fifth day brings birds both large and small, red and white, as birdsong is heard throughout the earth.

And, my favorite page contains green grass with a plethora of giraffes and elephants, both large and small. The mice lie down with the majestic lion , and the white tiger is surrounded with lovely multicolored butterflies.

And then there are children who wear sparkling gold crowns and brightly colored saris. By their side are small tigers, elephants, cubs and giraffes.

God is represented as a child who rides a white swan, and an otter with a lovely red bird as all around is filled with breathtaking blue with red poppy flowers. This is an incredible book.

On a personal note, I had the pleasure of meeting Bishop Desmond Tutu and his lovely wife in 1984, the week before the announcement was made that he was the recipient of the Nobel Peace award. He and his wife led a conference at Kirkridge Retreat Center, where I worked in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. It sounds silly to say there was a special presence about him, and when he touched my hand, I felt a sense of calm. His wife had a tinkling laughter as together they walked down the path of the center. I will always remember that experience!

>118 Whisper1: What a delightful book, and you have such memories of Desmond Tutu to cherish. It sounds positively real that he should exude a sense of calm and wonderful that you sensed it.

Hi Linda! Your reviews always leave me knowingly exactly whether I would enjoy a book or not. They are richly informed. : )

>114 Whisper1: - glad Kayla is living up to her end of the bargain. And how nice that Stinky isn't.

The Burglar sure sounds like a dud. Will be avoiding that one like the plague.

>119 quondame: Hi Sue. Another interesting story regarding Desmond Tutu, while he was at the center he developed a tooth ache. Our director paved the way for an appointment The next week, when the announcement was made that he won the Nobel Peace Prize, the dentist called to say he was sorry he threw the thank you note away. He too noted that this was the most calm patient he ever had, and how much of a joy it was to fix his tooth

>120 Berly: Hi there Kim. Thanks for your kind words. I hope you are well, with no physical problems to plague you.

>121 Fourpawz2: Charlotte, Kayla is prone to panic attacks. She has medication, but still, there are triggers. She proudly told me that since she has Stinky as her pet, she is much more calm, and has not experienced an attack.

There are so many incredible books throughout the threads thus far this year. I forgot to list the list where I found them. Going forward, I will be sure to do so.
Also, I am going to note all books purchased.

Thrift books.com is a great site. The books are used, but all but one that I purchased are excellent.

Here is a list of books purchased thus far this year:
1) A Bright Shining Lie: John Paul Vann and America in Vietnam by Neil Sheehan
2) The Boy Who Knew Too Much by Cathy Byrd
3) A History of Space Exploration And It's Future by Tim Fumiss
4) Narrative of Sojourner Truth by Sojourner Truth
5) Day of Tears by Julius Lester
6) Killing Jesus by Bill O'Reilly
7) American Moonshot: John F. Kennedy and the Great Space Raceby Douglas Brinkley
8) Before This Decade Is Out?: Personal Reflections on the Apollo Program by Glen Swanson
9) FDR and Lucy: Lovers and Friends by Resa Willis
10. The Fountains of Silence by Ruta Sepetys purchased for $5.00 at Barnes and Noble

BOOK #20 OF 2022


If The Shoe Fits by Alison Jackson with illustrations of Karla Firehammer

Between reading "adult" books, I am on a mission to read all the illustrated books I have throughout the house. This one made me smile. The concept of the old woman who lived in a shoe is changed in this book. She is moving out of the shoe and taking the children with her as she attempts to live with them in various other dwellings.

They moved to and old hat, shared with a cat who played the fiddle all night long. Dancing with a spoon caused mama and her babies to leave in fright.
Next move is to Little Jack Horner's warm woolen coat that caused an allergic reaction, so she moved her children inside a green sock that was hung from a clock. The mouse scared them away as the clock turned to one and they found a tub.
Not liking the crowded tub, they found a wall where all the king's horses and men and an egg exploded just then.

Next up: Mama moves her babies inside a tea cup, then a torn glove and misc. other abodes until she discovered the shoe was the best place after all.

Creative with illustrations that bring laughter, this is a delightful book to read to a youngster who loves to laugh. And, I recommend it for an adult who needs a laugh as well.

>124 Whisper1: - Oh, this sounds fun, Linda. When I was still teaching, I had a basket filled with books that were variations or funny takes on familiar stories and fairy tales. This one would have been a perfect *fit*, lol! I love clever twists like this!

Hi, Linda. So many good reviews and beautiful illustrations! It’s a feast. I took particular note of The Man Made of Stars, Bessie Coleman and smoky Nights.

We’re getting close to Feb. 4!

It's taken me a while to get to your thread, Linda. The stories about Stinky made me laugh (except for the one when he was taken in an emergency run to the vet - glad he pulled through.) I love all the illustrations on your thread.

>106 Whisper1: FDR and Lucy sounds interesting. Have you read Eleanor and Hick? I found that an interesting when I read it.

Just waving Linda.

I agree re Eleanor Roosevelt. I have a biog of her somewhere, must dig it out.

Hi Linda - Tuning in to wish you an early Happy Groundhog Day -
the one day of the year when Pennsylvania and Wisconsin face off =

Punx vs Jimmy The Groundhog!

Whatever their prognostications,
let them bring you Good Luck and Success on February 4th,
when hope and prayers will abound in your direction.

>125 jessibud2: Hi Shelley! I am on a quest to read and give away the many illustrated books I have. Truly, books are taking over every room. It is time to cull some of them. Most recently Grand daughter Kayla and I took hundreds to the local library. I imagine teaching and reading illustrated books was a great deal of fun.

>126 jnwelch: Hi Joe. Yes, the infusion pump surgery is tomorrow. Weather was originally schedule for icy rain, but I think it will be rainy. I appreciate your kind wishes.

>127 Familyhistorian: Hi Meg. I read about Eleanor and her friends in a biography. I have the book Eleanor and Hick and hope to read it soon.
Thanks for stopping by!

>128 Caroline_McElwee: Hi Caroline. Thanks for stopping by. I admire Eleanor Roosevelt for so many reasons. She overcame a tragic childhood, and severe hurt from both an intruding mother in law, and a cheating husband. She went on to forge her own separate life by helping many others.

>129 m.belljackson: Marianne, Stinky the ferret continues to bring laughter. When he is excited, he runs down the stairs, the jumps sideway in front of the sofa. He makes laps around the room, running in back of the furniture. When he stops and looks up, I wonder what he sees. We are so tall compared to his little body. He is a lot of work because he requires attention and careful watch so that he doesn't crawl somewhere he doesn't belong. He continues to haunt Lilly despite her barks of warning. I don't think she will ever like Stinky, or even tolerate him.

Thanks for you kind wishes regarding tomorrow's surgery. I have high hopes.

Keeping you in my thoughts for tomorrow, Linda. How long will you be in the hospital before you return home?

Love all the illustrations, as usual, Linda. Thanks for sharing.

I'll be keeping you in my thoughts, too, as you take the next step in this promising journey to vanquish your pain.

All the best to you, Linda.
I will think of you tomorrow.

Adding my best wishes for your infusion surgery tomorrow. May your high hopes be realized. Here’s to your future filled with less pain in your life. ❤️

>131 jessibud2: Shelley, I am not sure how long I'll be in the hospital. I'm hoping only one over night. Thanks for your outreach. It means a lot.

>132 laytonwoman3rd: Thanks Linda. I appreciate your kind words.

>133 SirThomas: Thanks so much. I hope to be able to have my life back, pain free!

>134 Donna828: Donna, it is so good to have you back with the group. Much appreciation!

BOOK #21 OF 2022


Day of Tears by Julius Lester

This book tells the story of the single most amount of slaves sold in one day in American history. Heartbreaking, beyond comprehension to read the documentation of families torn apart. One man in particular sold a large amount of slaves because he had gambling debts!!!!

This is a tragic day in the history of the United States. The book lists the actual amount paid per slave, and the descriptions listed in a pamphlet distributed to those interested in acquiring more slaves.

This is almost too upsetting to read. Known as "the weeping time," it is tragic to know that owners looked at people of color as their "assets!"

I heard from the hospital. I am the first surgery of the day. I need to be there no later that 5:30 a.m. I hope the weather co-operates. Today is rain, no ice. I hope the same for tomorrow.

The preadmission testing process was more intensive than anticipated. In the end, I am approved, with the understanding, I will return to using a sleep apnea machine. I'll go through the testing process again and obtain a new machine.

Two ekg tests showed abnormalities. Time to return to my cardiologist on a regular basis. There are some irregular heart beats.
Years ago, I had a heart ablation because of supratyacardia. If this needs to be done again, I'll do it.

I long forward to leaving behind twelve years of surgeries and continued long-term pain. In addition, my family was consumed with helping Will, then the grief of his passing despite all we did to try to help him pull through.

I will get back on board regarding my health. Grief knocked the stuffing out of me, and I didn't realize how long this process is, and that it still continues. I've left too many of my health related items go by the wayside.

I hope this surgery will help return my life to normalcy, and I am counting on living pain free!

I deeply appreciate all the outreach from this group, both over the years with the many surgeries, and the loss of Will.

I vow not to cry when I awaken from this surgery without Will being by my side. The last surgery after he passed away, I cried when he was not there when I awoke.

Time to move forward. I may take some non-credit college credits, just for fun! I will see my my friends without cancellation because of illness. I count on returning to doing things I enjoy!

I hope your surgery goes well and grants you the relief to enjoy more of this life. And know that anything you do after surgery is just fine, really it is. My brother spouted French and my husband chatted all sorts of nonsense which he had no memory of after a few hours sleep.

I love my CPAP machine, but I know they can be annoying for some. Good luck with your new one.

Hi Linda my dear, i hope that your surgery goes well and that you get the relief that you deserve and that you can get back to doing the things that you want to do.

Sending very special Yorkshire healing love and hugs from both of us my very dear friend.

Best wishes for your surgery, Linda, I hope all goes well. I will be thinking of you.
(((hugs)))

Dropping to wish you well for your surgery.

Thinking of you before your surgery, Linda!

>118 Whisper1: Lovely! And what a great memory!

>136 Whisper1: Adding that one to the BlackHole.

Thinking of you tomorrow!

Hi Linda!

>137 Whisper1: You are in my thoughts and prayers, and I’m sending much love to you. I hope that when you wake up from the surgery your thoughts are about your family and friends thinking about you, feeling that they/we are sending their love, healing thoughts, and prayers.

Thinking of you, Linda, and hope your surgery goes smoothly.

>137 Whisper1: Keeping you firmly in my thoughts today Linda. I hope this really is the beginning of a physically pain free future.

Losing Will will never go away, but it will change into something more bearable in time.

Wishing you all the best for your surgery Linda.

Praying your surgery is successful!

Thinking of you today!

You are in my thoughts!

I'm another keeping vigil and praying that this is a complete success. x

Linda you are in my thoughts. Hope the surgery goes well!

Thanks to all for your very special wishes.

The surgery went well. The pump is working. I have two nasty incisions, and that is the only area where there is pain. That will heal.

Grand daughter Kayla was able to get me to the hospital (shrouded in fog) at 5;30 am.
Weather forecast was for ice. And, because we left when temps were 45 degrees, we avoided the icy conditions.
However, the evening (we were home by then) had lots of icy roads and many area truck and car accidents.

Today, we need to program a device to work with the pump. It is a hand-held android that, when waved in front of pump area, will read the amount of dilaudid used each day. If we run into troubles, there is a physcian's assistant on call all weekend.

All this technology is truly amazing!

Yay for the good News!
All the best for you, Linda.

>154 Whisper1: A new phase begins...what great news, Linda!

>154 Whisper1: Glad you are home, Linda, so happy the surgery went well!

Linda, I'm so glad the surgery went well and you are safely home. The device programming isn't the fun part but at least you will have information to work with.
Best wishes to you and Kayla.

>154 Whisper1: I am so happy to hear that everything went well!

This is exactly the news I was hoping to find from you, Linda! Yay, you and also, yay, Kayla!! Forward! xoxo

Yay! So glad the procedure went well and that you could navigate the weather to get there. Three cheers for dilaudid and it almost feels like Happy New Year!! Big hugs.

>154 Whisper1: Wonderful news Linda. I hope you have a very restful few days now. Is Kayla staying with you?

>154 Whisper1: Linda - We've been checking back all day waiting for your Great News!

Congratulations to you and amazing Kayla for a truly remarkable outcome!

Happy news indeed, Linda!

I'm very happy for you.

HI Linda, So good that the surgery is behind you and all went well. Sure hope you are comfortable in the recovery stage. Take care!

Glad to hear the surgery went well and that you missed the worst of the icy roads. Fingers crossed for a smooth recovery and that you were able to program the device successfully. Technology really is amazing!

Thank you everyone!!!! The pump is working! This is the second day when I did not need to take any pain pills! I deeply appreciate all the good wishes. I am overwhelmed!

>154 Whisper1: Linda, I am happy for your good news, and happy that you finally have relief.

>167 Whisper1: That's great! Keep up the good healing!

I think you can get a sense of how much you are loved in the group, Linda.

I join my friends in expressing my joy and relief that your procedure has gone well. xx

>167 Whisper1: Woot! Woot!

>168 RBeffa: Hi Ron, It is nice to see you here. Thanks for your kindness.

>169 quondame: Thanks, as always Susan!

>170 PaulCranswick: Paul, your message brought tears. Thank you!
>171 alcottacre: Hi there friend Stasia!

So glad to hear the good news, Linda!!

Hi Linda my dear, i am so glad that the surgery went well for you and so upwards with a new phase of your life that is pain free.

Sending Yorkshire love and hugs from both of us my dear friend.