Thread Number Two for Whisper1 (Linda) 2024
This is a continuation of the topic Thread Number One for Whisper1 (Linda) 2024.
This topic was continued by Thread Number Three for Whisper1 (Linda) 2024.
Talk 75 Books Challenge for 2024
Join LibraryThing to post.
2Whisper1
BOOK ONE READ IN FEBRUARY 2024
Summer's Vacation by Lynn Plourde with incredible illustrations of Greg Couch
Part of the series by this incredible team. When summer plays, she does this with an obsession. Cartwheel, shouts, romping, shouting, frolicking continue to make the day fun-filled. But mother and father both agree that Summer is getting a bit out of hand and must be warned that chores have to be finished.
Summer's usual response is 'Ill do them soon But right now, swimming calls to Summer as the waves of the ocean call for jumping and performing cannonballs. Again, Mother Earth shakes a finger and reminds her child that Chores are waiting and must be done.
"In a While. but first, let's hike." Everything this wild child does is with a tremendous amount of gusto and high spirit. As night occurs, the errant child forgot about chores that were promised to be accomplished. Now night is here and father time is very mad. Stomping his foot he strongly states that the chores must be done Right Away
And as the next day awakes with the sunshine, still the very stubborn, silly, self-absorbed child wants to continue to splash and romp! Climbing the mountain she sees an incredible sight. But, the sight shifts to a brown color covering the earth. As all around a nasty dark cover is in sight.
This spoiled, petulant, stubborn child created a lack of color because she could not reign in her stubborn selfishness. When she asks what is wrong with the earth. Her parents tell her that it really is rather simple. You played and now you must pay. Now the summer child promises to make things right and work day and night. And as summer continues to lug water for many days, she works as fast as possible.
It now dawns on her that her selfishness has consequences for not just her, but the entire earth. Watering until she is very weary, summer watches as slowly as the rivers begin to low and the earth returns to glow. The last thing child of summer does is to paint a multi-colored rainbow in the sky, she calls to autumn that so wishes she could continue to play, but the earth needs the vibrant colors.
This is another charming, beautiful book regarding the seasons on earth and the children of Mother and Father Earth as they are more than patient with their children.
Interestingly, I had no patient for the child of summer. I know my parents would never have been as laid back. The paddle would have been in use as a payment for not listening.
"
BOOK #TWO READ IN FEBRARY 2024
Mr. Mumble written and illustrated by Peter Catalanotto
The illustrations carry this story of an older man who sleeps, then awakes with a tickle in his throat. As he walks around town doing his chores, he cannot speak clearly. He can only mumble, so much so that his speaking is not understood. Mr. Mumby is misunderstood and is called Mr. Mumbles. As his landlady carried a large basket of wash . He asked her if he could carry her cat, but it was understood as a question could he marry the cat! The result was an angry landlady who replied "Certainly Not!"
His dinner was quite interesting. Instead of two scrambled eggs and a corn muffin, it sounded as wanted two scarecrow legs and a car muffler. And, that is what he was served. Another error regarding food happened when he asked for a dozen bagels, and was instead given a dozing beagle dog.
Throughout the day his mumbling caused quite a few errors as he was misunderstood. He ended with a panda bear. an aardvark, a muskrat, a goat and kangaroo.
Finally, when he went to a doctor, and was patted on the back, a blue bird with many pretty feathers flew out of his mouth.
Now, Mr. Mumble had a zoo of animals and needed to find food to feed them.---------------------------------------------------------------------
BOOK#THREE READ IN THE FEBRUARY 2024
A Apple Pie written and illustratd by Gennady Spirin
This is yet another stunningly illustrated book by Gennady Spirin The people portrayed in the story of the actions acccompanying the alphabetical letter were from a time in history long past. the little girls dresses were beautiful with large ribbon sashes and multicolored hats to match.
While the larger illustration of the letter and people, in the corner of each page was a portion of the large illustration with a smaller image taken from the larger one.
It is the illustrations that carry the book. Spirin took a simple subject of the alphabet and turned it into a wonderful image of spectacular beauty.
If you haven't heard of this illustrator, and if you like art, I highly recommend you delve into the beauty that is Gennedy Spirin
BOOK #FOUR READ FEBRUARY 2024
The Way I Feel written and illustrated by Janan Cain
This book was awarded First Place for Publishers Association of the West's 18th Annual Western U.S. Book Design
This is a cute book which helps children identify their emotions. With colorful images that match the word connotating the emotion, I recommend this book to parents, especially those children who have a difficult time controlling their emotions. The bright colors and funny images might help children laugh out loud at the image depicting the emotion, and therefore allow the child not feel over whelmed when they are angry, sad, silly, excited, jealous, proud, disappointed, scared, happy, thankful, shy, or bored.
BOOK NUMBER FIVE OF DEBRUARY 2024
A Blue so Blue by Jean Francolis Dumont
A little precocious child dreams of color. White others are playling tag or other outdoor events, he spent the days with his sketchbook and paints. He dreamed of blue, a color of blue that was perfect. His dreams always contained a precious blue so blue that was both dark and light, and a blue that was always just right.
No color in his palet was right. He could not find the color blue that was exactly like the blue in his dreams. He spent the day in he art museum where not one painting of all of them contained the right color blue. Yet of all of the hundreds of paintings, none contained just this perfect blue he longed to see.
He went to the ocean in search of the exact blue, but alas it could not be found in the ocean's waves. An old saylor talked of a blue in the South Seas. Whereupon, the little boy headed to a trip to that area in the South Seas, but still, he could not find the right blue. Nor, could the color blue he was searching for be found in any other of his travels.
BUT, one day a turtle told him of "the blues." These blues could be found in America, where they sang a blue that touched the soul. The boy sailed and landed in the Mississippi, where there was sweet music coming from and old club. Sitting on the edge of his chair, and closing his eyes, the found that blues the turtle mentioned could make him happy and sad. Late at night, he told the man who played the wonderful sounds of the blues, that while his music was very special, still it did not elicit the color blue he dreamed about.
The blues man told him he might find this color in the African dessert, where there were men who lived in the dessert roaming free, wearing beautiful blue robes and veils. Sadly, he told the chief of the tribe of Blue Men, that still he was longing for the specific color blue that could not be found anywhere he visited.
The dessert cheiff tld him that perhaps what he didn't need to travel, and perhaps the blue he longed to see might be right in front of him.
Late one night, finding his home in the big gray city, he saw a window where soft light was coming. Running hurriedly up the steps, he opened the door, and there he saw a pair of perfect blue eyes.
Running toward the blue eyes, he saw a tear rolling down his mother' s cheek.
Placing his brush to her check, at the edge of the tear, he found the perfect blue.
And, as the author notes, the young boy found:
a blue tender and strong
a blue so blue it felt close all along
and, the boy did not need to roam
His perfect blue was right there at home!!
BOOK# SIX READ IN FEBRUARY 2024
The Twelve Days of Christmas by David Delamare
This illustrator is one of my favorites. I'm amazed at his talent. As the title notes, this book is about the twelve days of Christmas, done in beautiful colors and lush drawings, I'll keep this book in my library.
BOOK #SEVEN Read in FEBRUARY 2024
Zen Shorts by Jon J. Muth
This illustrator is new to me. I'll be sure to find more of his offerings. This is a book of positiveity wherein each day children discover the large panda bear who offers thoughts of Zen teachings and/or simple happy thoughts that make the day bring sunshine. When the girl Addy, finds him in a bright yellow tent, he explains it is a gift his Uncle glad to him/ Stillwater the bear notes that he has enjoyed this gift and today because it makes him happy, he will stay inside the tent, as he inviest Addy to share his happiness and come inside.
When Addy presents Stillwater with a small cake, he tells a story his uncle told him regarding a racoon that came in the house to steal his Unccle By's few possessions. Uncle By does not have anything to give, but because everyone who visits must leave with a gift, he gave the racoon the robe he was wearing. The thought he must be crazy while he ran out the door with the robe.
Uncle By sat and looked at the beautiful silvery mon and thought "Poor Man," "All I had to give him was my tattered robe. If only I could have given him this wonderful moon!" The story proceeds with short stories of tuning sad things into happy occurrences.
One day when the children were playing in a pool of water filled with so many inflatable toys that they crowded out the water. His brother noted that Karl always does this -- brings too many things. As they emptied the pool of all the toys, leaving only themselves, they had fun playing and even Stillwater had bathing trunks on. As Still water helped take the inflatable toys, he told the brother that he spent all day being mad at Karl rather than enjoying the fun they had.
The title of the book, Zen Shorts notes that the bear wears shorts and he tells Zen short stories of goodness and happiness. What a wonderful story to teach both children and adults tht holding on to things does not necesasarilly bring happiness.
BOOK #EIGHT READ IN FEBRUARY 2024
Feathertop written Robert D. San Souci Illustrated by Daniel San Souci with illustrations of Daniel San Souci
Based on a novel by Nathaniel Hawthorne. Using various objects, such as a spoon, a wooden rolling pin, a piece of burlap material for the jacket, a pumpkin, and spindly wood for legs and arms, the old witch, Mother Rigby, who lives in a hoven in New England with her black cat, used her broomstick to conjure up the objects to make a dandy looking man. With a dusty tri colored hat , worn red britches worn silk stockings and a tarnished buckle, he became a handsome man.
Sending him on the path of Judge Goodkin to trance his beautiful daughter, the dapper looking man instantly fell in love with Mistress Goodkin. Polly brought him inside to meet her father. walking away, she realized she was in love with with the handsome man. Looking in the mirror in the hall as Polly walked in front of him, he did not see a handsome man, but the scarecrow.
When Polly saw the scarecrow, she cried, remembering the handsome man that she longed for. No matter what, if he was a scarecrow or a handsome man, she loved him and visited the field where he stood, she continue to visit him each day.
Mother Rigby dared to say she was not a witch and thus broke the spell. And together they walked away hand in hand.
BOOK #NINE READ IN FEBRUARY 2024
Value of Love:The Story of Johnny Appleseed by Ann Donegan Johnson illustrations of Steve Pileggi
Lovely illustrations make this book a nice read. It is the story of Jonny Appleseed. Of course, I've heard the name, and knew he spread apple seeds, but that's all I knew.
This book takes the read through Johnny who was an intuitive young boy always wanting to work in the earth. A strong fathy and a love of the bible kept him alert and intelligent. Taking a train throughout the country he did not know gave him the idea that fallow land should not be wasted.
As he grew he came to learn more and more about planting seasons, and types of apples. Where ever he went, he gave apple seeds with directions for planting and growing, and a small hand-made image of apples in all their glory as they hung on the trees, and the ground. Children played with the apples, and all too soon the word spread about the incredible man, Johnny Appleseed
Summer's Vacation by Lynn Plourde with incredible illustrations of Greg Couch
Part of the series by this incredible team. When summer plays, she does this with an obsession. Cartwheel, shouts, romping, shouting, frolicking continue to make the day fun-filled. But mother and father both agree that Summer is getting a bit out of hand and must be warned that chores have to be finished.
Summer's usual response is 'Ill do them soon But right now, swimming calls to Summer as the waves of the ocean call for jumping and performing cannonballs. Again, Mother Earth shakes a finger and reminds her child that Chores are waiting and must be done.
"In a While. but first, let's hike." Everything this wild child does is with a tremendous amount of gusto and high spirit. As night occurs, the errant child forgot about chores that were promised to be accomplished. Now night is here and father time is very mad. Stomping his foot he strongly states that the chores must be done Right Away
And as the next day awakes with the sunshine, still the very stubborn, silly, self-absorbed child wants to continue to splash and romp! Climbing the mountain she sees an incredible sight. But, the sight shifts to a brown color covering the earth. As all around a nasty dark cover is in sight.
This spoiled, petulant, stubborn child created a lack of color because she could not reign in her stubborn selfishness. When she asks what is wrong with the earth. Her parents tell her that it really is rather simple. You played and now you must pay. Now the summer child promises to make things right and work day and night. And as summer continues to lug water for many days, she works as fast as possible.
It now dawns on her that her selfishness has consequences for not just her, but the entire earth. Watering until she is very weary, summer watches as slowly as the rivers begin to low and the earth returns to glow. The last thing child of summer does is to paint a multi-colored rainbow in the sky, she calls to autumn that so wishes she could continue to play, but the earth needs the vibrant colors.
This is another charming, beautiful book regarding the seasons on earth and the children of Mother and Father Earth as they are more than patient with their children.
Interestingly, I had no patient for the child of summer. I know my parents would never have been as laid back. The paddle would have been in use as a payment for not listening.
"BOOK #TWO READ IN FEBRARY 2024
Mr. Mumble written and illustrated by Peter Catalanotto
The illustrations carry this story of an older man who sleeps, then awakes with a tickle in his throat. As he walks around town doing his chores, he cannot speak clearly. He can only mumble, so much so that his speaking is not understood. Mr. Mumby is misunderstood and is called Mr. Mumbles. As his landlady carried a large basket of wash . He asked her if he could carry her cat, but it was understood as a question could he marry the cat! The result was an angry landlady who replied "Certainly Not!"
His dinner was quite interesting. Instead of two scrambled eggs and a corn muffin, it sounded as wanted two scarecrow legs and a car muffler. And, that is what he was served. Another error regarding food happened when he asked for a dozen bagels, and was instead given a dozing beagle dog.
Throughout the day his mumbling caused quite a few errors as he was misunderstood. He ended with a panda bear. an aardvark, a muskrat, a goat and kangaroo.
Finally, when he went to a doctor, and was patted on the back, a blue bird with many pretty feathers flew out of his mouth.
Now, Mr. Mumble had a zoo of animals and needed to find food to feed them.---------------------------------------------------------------------
BOOK#THREE READ IN THE FEBRUARY 2024
A Apple Pie written and illustratd by Gennady Spirin
This is yet another stunningly illustrated book by Gennady Spirin The people portrayed in the story of the actions acccompanying the alphabetical letter were from a time in history long past. the little girls dresses were beautiful with large ribbon sashes and multicolored hats to match.
While the larger illustration of the letter and people, in the corner of each page was a portion of the large illustration with a smaller image taken from the larger one.
It is the illustrations that carry the book. Spirin took a simple subject of the alphabet and turned it into a wonderful image of spectacular beauty.
If you haven't heard of this illustrator, and if you like art, I highly recommend you delve into the beauty that is Gennedy Spirin
BOOK #FOUR READ FEBRUARY 2024
The Way I Feel written and illustrated by Janan Cain
This book was awarded First Place for Publishers Association of the West's 18th Annual Western U.S. Book Design
This is a cute book which helps children identify their emotions. With colorful images that match the word connotating the emotion, I recommend this book to parents, especially those children who have a difficult time controlling their emotions. The bright colors and funny images might help children laugh out loud at the image depicting the emotion, and therefore allow the child not feel over whelmed when they are angry, sad, silly, excited, jealous, proud, disappointed, scared, happy, thankful, shy, or bored.
BOOK NUMBER FIVE OF DEBRUARY 2024
A Blue so Blue by Jean Francolis Dumont
A little precocious child dreams of color. White others are playling tag or other outdoor events, he spent the days with his sketchbook and paints. He dreamed of blue, a color of blue that was perfect. His dreams always contained a precious blue so blue that was both dark and light, and a blue that was always just right.
No color in his palet was right. He could not find the color blue that was exactly like the blue in his dreams. He spent the day in he art museum where not one painting of all of them contained the right color blue. Yet of all of the hundreds of paintings, none contained just this perfect blue he longed to see.
He went to the ocean in search of the exact blue, but alas it could not be found in the ocean's waves. An old saylor talked of a blue in the South Seas. Whereupon, the little boy headed to a trip to that area in the South Seas, but still, he could not find the right blue. Nor, could the color blue he was searching for be found in any other of his travels.
BUT, one day a turtle told him of "the blues." These blues could be found in America, where they sang a blue that touched the soul. The boy sailed and landed in the Mississippi, where there was sweet music coming from and old club. Sitting on the edge of his chair, and closing his eyes, the found that blues the turtle mentioned could make him happy and sad. Late at night, he told the man who played the wonderful sounds of the blues, that while his music was very special, still it did not elicit the color blue he dreamed about.
The blues man told him he might find this color in the African dessert, where there were men who lived in the dessert roaming free, wearing beautiful blue robes and veils. Sadly, he told the chief of the tribe of Blue Men, that still he was longing for the specific color blue that could not be found anywhere he visited.
The dessert cheiff tld him that perhaps what he didn't need to travel, and perhaps the blue he longed to see might be right in front of him.
Late one night, finding his home in the big gray city, he saw a window where soft light was coming. Running hurriedly up the steps, he opened the door, and there he saw a pair of perfect blue eyes.
Running toward the blue eyes, he saw a tear rolling down his mother' s cheek.
Placing his brush to her check, at the edge of the tear, he found the perfect blue.
And, as the author notes, the young boy found:
a blue tender and strong
a blue so blue it felt close all along
and, the boy did not need to roam
His perfect blue was right there at home!!
BOOK# SIX READ IN FEBRUARY 2024
The Twelve Days of Christmas by David Delamare
This illustrator is one of my favorites. I'm amazed at his talent. As the title notes, this book is about the twelve days of Christmas, done in beautiful colors and lush drawings, I'll keep this book in my library.
BOOK #SEVEN Read in FEBRUARY 2024
Zen Shorts by Jon J. Muth
This illustrator is new to me. I'll be sure to find more of his offerings. This is a book of positiveity wherein each day children discover the large panda bear who offers thoughts of Zen teachings and/or simple happy thoughts that make the day bring sunshine. When the girl Addy, finds him in a bright yellow tent, he explains it is a gift his Uncle glad to him/ Stillwater the bear notes that he has enjoyed this gift and today because it makes him happy, he will stay inside the tent, as he inviest Addy to share his happiness and come inside.
When Addy presents Stillwater with a small cake, he tells a story his uncle told him regarding a racoon that came in the house to steal his Unccle By's few possessions. Uncle By does not have anything to give, but because everyone who visits must leave with a gift, he gave the racoon the robe he was wearing. The thought he must be crazy while he ran out the door with the robe.
Uncle By sat and looked at the beautiful silvery mon and thought "Poor Man," "All I had to give him was my tattered robe. If only I could have given him this wonderful moon!" The story proceeds with short stories of tuning sad things into happy occurrences.
One day when the children were playing in a pool of water filled with so many inflatable toys that they crowded out the water. His brother noted that Karl always does this -- brings too many things. As they emptied the pool of all the toys, leaving only themselves, they had fun playing and even Stillwater had bathing trunks on. As Still water helped take the inflatable toys, he told the brother that he spent all day being mad at Karl rather than enjoying the fun they had.
The title of the book, Zen Shorts notes that the bear wears shorts and he tells Zen short stories of goodness and happiness. What a wonderful story to teach both children and adults tht holding on to things does not necesasarilly bring happiness.
BOOK #EIGHT READ IN FEBRUARY 2024
Feathertop written Robert D. San Souci Illustrated by Daniel San Souci with illustrations of Daniel San Souci
Based on a novel by Nathaniel Hawthorne. Using various objects, such as a spoon, a wooden rolling pin, a piece of burlap material for the jacket, a pumpkin, and spindly wood for legs and arms, the old witch, Mother Rigby, who lives in a hoven in New England with her black cat, used her broomstick to conjure up the objects to make a dandy looking man. With a dusty tri colored hat , worn red britches worn silk stockings and a tarnished buckle, he became a handsome man.
Sending him on the path of Judge Goodkin to trance his beautiful daughter, the dapper looking man instantly fell in love with Mistress Goodkin. Polly brought him inside to meet her father. walking away, she realized she was in love with with the handsome man. Looking in the mirror in the hall as Polly walked in front of him, he did not see a handsome man, but the scarecrow.
When Polly saw the scarecrow, she cried, remembering the handsome man that she longed for. No matter what, if he was a scarecrow or a handsome man, she loved him and visited the field where he stood, she continue to visit him each day.
Mother Rigby dared to say she was not a witch and thus broke the spell. And together they walked away hand in hand.
BOOK #NINE READ IN FEBRUARY 2024
Value of Love:The Story of Johnny Appleseed by Ann Donegan Johnson illustrations of Steve Pileggi
Lovely illustrations make this book a nice read. It is the story of Jonny Appleseed. Of course, I've heard the name, and knew he spread apple seeds, but that's all I knew.
This book takes the read through Johnny who was an intuitive young boy always wanting to work in the earth. A strong fathy and a love of the bible kept him alert and intelligent. Taking a train throughout the country he did not know gave him the idea that fallow land should not be wasted.
As he grew he came to learn more and more about planting seasons, and types of apples. Where ever he went, he gave apple seeds with directions for planting and growing, and a small hand-made image of apples in all their glory as they hung on the trees, and the ground. Children played with the apples, and all too soon the word spread about the incredible man, Johnny Appleseed
3Whisper1
BOOK # 10 OF the month of February 2024
My Mum by Anthony Browne
This is a lovely tribute by a child to his mother. Tenderly told, it is obvious that this child loves him mother and adores the way in which she takes care of him, and helps him see the world.
![]()
My Mum by Anthony Browne
This is a lovely tribute by a child to his mother. Tenderly told, it is obvious that this child loves him mother and adores the way in which she takes care of him, and helps him see the world.
5curioussquared
Happy new thread, Linda!!
7PaulCranswick
Happy new thread my dear Linda. xx
10figsfromthistle
Happy new thread :)
11alcottacre
I will try to keep up better with this thread than I did the last one, lovey :)
14Whisper1
Thanks to all for your kind wishes regarding a new thread. I still have a few books that I left space to note books I read already this month. I need to write reviews for those on thread one. But, I jumped ahead to this thread as I am getting books in order, including those I want to read in February.
I also plan to work on some 1,000 piece puzzles. I am slowly getting the basement in order, and know there are two large containers that have puzzles inside.
It's been so darn cold, dreary and rainy for the last ten days. While I am not prone to depression, I find my spirits long for sun.
I also plan to work on some 1,000 piece puzzles. I am slowly getting the basement in order, and know there are two large containers that have puzzles inside.
It's been so darn cold, dreary and rainy for the last ten days. While I am not prone to depression, I find my spirits long for sun.
16vancouverdeb
Happy New Thread , Linda! I love your Valentine Images - so nostalgic. You have lots of lovely books to read this month. I loved a lot of those stories, and The Ugly Duckling stands out. Such a wonderful message there. I need to make sure my 5 year old granddaughter has read that. I'll be eager to see the puzzles you do. I hope you will put them on your thread. I love a busy puzzle, myself. They are fun, though occasionally frustrating.
17FAMeulstee
Happy new thread, Linda!
I hope there will be some sunny days soon for you.
I hope there will be some sunny days soon for you.
18SirThomas
Happy new thread, Linda!
>1 Whisper1:, >2 Whisper1:, >3 Whisper1: I love yor lovely pictures and covers.
All the best for your february!
>1 Whisper1:, >2 Whisper1:, >3 Whisper1: I love yor lovely pictures and covers.
All the best for your february!
19Donna828
Linda, I love that you have a new thread starting out with those lovely heart images. Like you, I am ready to leave the gloom and doom of January behind. Happy February!
21thornton37814
I need to make a point to stop by the children's room at our library to see what grabs me. I often feel rushed when I'm there on Tuesdays. Our stitching meet-up begins at 4:30, and I'm usually right at 4:30 or often up to 10 minutes afterwards in arriving. They close at 7 pm so I don't really feel I have time to browse after we finish at 6:30. (Most libraries don't really want people checking things out in the last 15 minutes, at least in my experience.)
22EBT1002
Hi Linda and happy new thread.
From your prior thread, I love the special way you care for commemorative ornaments. We have a bit of a tradition of buying ornaments to mark occasions, as well -- usually happy ones like a trip to Ireland or something like that, but they all end up having sometimes unintended (and still very special) meaning attached to them. We do have a few ornaments that are, well, just ornaments, but not very many. When we decorate the tree each year, it is a constant refrain of "oh, here is the one from...." and "do you remember when *insert name here* gave this one to us?"
From your prior thread, I love the special way you care for commemorative ornaments. We have a bit of a tradition of buying ornaments to mark occasions, as well -- usually happy ones like a trip to Ireland or something like that, but they all end up having sometimes unintended (and still very special) meaning attached to them. We do have a few ornaments that are, well, just ornaments, but not very many. When we decorate the tree each year, it is a constant refrain of "oh, here is the one from...." and "do you remember when *insert name here* gave this one to us?"
24Whisper1
While searching through my Facebook photos today, I found this one of Will and I spending time with his family during the annual spinach pie event. Will's family has accepted and loved me. Even though he passed in April of 2019, his family still includes me in the family functions.
I am so very blessed. I don't miss the two bad eggs, but sincerely would miss the two dozen others.
Life is good.
Today brought blessed sunshine after 9-10 days of bleak rain and gloom, and when I saw this photo, I smiled because life is good, and even though I want more time, we had 22 wonderful years together!
I am so very blessed. I don't miss the two bad eggs, but sincerely would miss the two dozen others.
Life is good.
Today brought blessed sunshine after 9-10 days of bleak rain and gloom, and when I saw this photo, I smiled because life is good, and even though I want more time, we had 22 wonderful years together!
25jessibud2
Linda, what a beautiful picture!
I am very late to this thread. But I have been lurking and trying to soak up some of your positivity and wonderful spirit!
I am very late to this thread. But I have been lurking and trying to soak up some of your positivity and wonderful spirit!
28Whisper1
BOOK#11 of FEBRUARY 2024
Zorrie by Laird Hunt
I started to like the book in the beginning pages, but found it going down hill. It was slow and boring. I cannot recommend it.
Zorrie by Laird Hunt
I started to like the book in the beginning pages, but found it going down hill. It was slow and boring. I cannot recommend it.
29SirThomas
>24 Whisper1: I am pleased for you that this hold good memories for you, the picture is beautiful.
30fuzzi
>24 Whisper1: thank you.
32m.belljackson
>24 Whisper1: What happy smiles and eyes, Linda!
34Owltherian
Hallo Linda, how art thou today? Happy New Thread!
35streamsong
Happy New Thread!, Linda!
I just finished your previous thread - amazing books and illustrations and I have copied the Mary Oliver poem to use on my own thread.
What a wonderful photo of you and Will - your love shines through so beautifully.
I've been told that loss is like the amputation of a limb - over time it hurts less, but you are never unaware that it is gone.
I just finished your previous thread - amazing books and illustrations and I have copied the Mary Oliver poem to use on my own thread.
What a wonderful photo of you and Will - your love shines through so beautifully.
I've been told that loss is like the amputation of a limb - over time it hurts less, but you are never unaware that it is gone.
36atozgrl
>24 Whisper1: This is a lovely picture! Thanks for sharing. I'm glad his family still includes you. You certainly were part of the family for all those years!
37BLBera
>24 Whisper1: That's a great picture, Linda. Thanks for sharing.
38ChelleBearss
Happy new tread
39Whisper1
Thanks to all for stopping by. I deeply appreciate your nice comments regarding the image of Will and I. I've been going through family photos and giving some of them away. In particular, those of Will's Aunt that focused on such wonderful times of cruises taken together with family members, spinach pie occasions once every year -- a family tradition kept the first Saturday of the New Year, lots of photos of Kayla as a baby that I'm sharing with my daughter.
There is no use keeping all these photos. It is time to share some of them. I'm slowly cleaning out the basement and every day I try to take items in my car up the road to the American Family Services were others in need can enjoy them. Old chairs, plastic containers, clothes, dishes that no one wants. I'm actually having fun seeing a clean, clear space in some areas.
I am gradually taking stock of books. I gave away two large boxes of YA books purchased a long time agp. Most I've already read, others bough in haste at a library sale, and some I no longer have an interest in reading. But, I know that I cannot over do it or else I'll be in a lot of pain. So, I'm carefully spending about an hour a day on this task. It feeels good to downsize.
Happy Reading to all. I'm heading to the library today to pick up books on hold. My resolution is to check out books from the library instead of buying them. Thus far this year, I've been successful at curtainling book buying.
Happy DayTo All. After a long time of grey days, the sun came out a few days ago and these days of beauty are very appreciated.
There is no use keeping all these photos. It is time to share some of them. I'm slowly cleaning out the basement and every day I try to take items in my car up the road to the American Family Services were others in need can enjoy them. Old chairs, plastic containers, clothes, dishes that no one wants. I'm actually having fun seeing a clean, clear space in some areas.
I am gradually taking stock of books. I gave away two large boxes of YA books purchased a long time agp. Most I've already read, others bough in haste at a library sale, and some I no longer have an interest in reading. But, I know that I cannot over do it or else I'll be in a lot of pain. So, I'm carefully spending about an hour a day on this task. It feeels good to downsize.
Happy Reading to all. I'm heading to the library today to pick up books on hold. My resolution is to check out books from the library instead of buying them. Thus far this year, I've been successful at curtainling book buying.
Happy DayTo All. After a long time of grey days, the sun came out a few days ago and these days of beauty are very appreciated.
42laytonwoman3rd
Somehow your threads have eluded me in 2024, Linda. Sorry to have missed the first one entirely! I love the photo of you and Will. I completely understand the urge to give things away so others can enjoy them. I've been the custodian of "what's left" of three households, and in some cases there really isn't anyone who might want the pictures and mementos, but I'm working on it. Not to mention my own collections!
43Whisper1
>42 laytonwoman3rd: Lynda, I have a wicked cold, and my mind is foggy. Somehow I copied and forgot some books I read. I'm working on setting it straight.
Good luck of going through three household and discerning what to keep, and what to give away. Years ago, I helped an elderly woman with a sale. She lived on a large farm and her husband died. As a gift for my help she gave me two "penny" vases. I almost gave them away. I happened to be at a yard sale and saw the same vase with a price tag of $175. In ignorance, I would have given them away. Now they both sit in a china cabinet, and I do't know what to do with them.
Good luck of going through three household and discerning what to keep, and what to give away. Years ago, I helped an elderly woman with a sale. She lived on a large farm and her husband died. As a gift for my help she gave me two "penny" vases. I almost gave them away. I happened to be at a yard sale and saw the same vase with a price tag of $175. In ignorance, I would have given them away. Now they both sit in a china cabinet, and I do't know what to do with them.
44Whisper1
It's Sunday. The nasty cold is still with me. I am having a difficult time reading. I have three books going on at once.
Stinky the ferret is back with us, and he is still like a little boy getting in trouble.
Kayla purchased a large cage for him. She and her boyfriend Christian placed mesh around 3/4 of the cage. He stayed in the cage once. But, he got out of the cage last night. Actually, I had to laugh. I went in the room to check on him and could not find him in the cage. I looked all over his cage...He wasn't there.
Then, I called his name a few times and heard a scratching sound; I lookeup and saw his nose, then his ears and head slowly poking out of his soft carrying cage which was place on top of his cage. I laughed so hard I had a hard time stoppin. His name should be Houdini.
We all agreed we should let him roam as this is what he will do anyway. There are large pads on the floor and he is good about doing his business on the pads both in the cage and on the floor outside. There are no surprises regarding where he pees. He knows to go on the pad. He also goes back in his cage when he wants to. I found him in his cage sleeping under his blanket.
How can a critter with a brain the size of a raisin be so darn smart. We've had him for three years and he always surprises us.
Stinky the ferret is back with us, and he is still like a little boy getting in trouble.
Kayla purchased a large cage for him. She and her boyfriend Christian placed mesh around 3/4 of the cage. He stayed in the cage once. But, he got out of the cage last night. Actually, I had to laugh. I went in the room to check on him and could not find him in the cage. I looked all over his cage...He wasn't there.
Then, I called his name a few times and heard a scratching sound; I lookeup and saw his nose, then his ears and head slowly poking out of his soft carrying cage which was place on top of his cage. I laughed so hard I had a hard time stoppin. His name should be Houdini.
We all agreed we should let him roam as this is what he will do anyway. There are large pads on the floor and he is good about doing his business on the pads both in the cage and on the floor outside. There are no surprises regarding where he pees. He knows to go on the pad. He also goes back in his cage when he wants to. I found him in his cage sleeping under his blanket.
How can a critter with a brain the size of a raisin be so darn smart. We've had him for three years and he always surprises us.
45Whisper1
BOOK #12 Read February 2024
Little Red Riding Hood by Gennady Spirin
Gennady Spirin tried something new with the illustrations of this book. Many of the images look like something from the Dutch golden age of the 17th century. And, since the Dutch painters have always been favorites of mine, I immediately liked this book.
In this story of the classic tale of young Red Riding Hood taking a basket of food to her grandmother. To do so, she must go through the woods. She is told to stay on the path and not to wander. Alas, she did not listen. Picking flowers for her grandmother allowed the big bad wolf to hurry to grandmother's house before Red Riding Hood arrived there. He hastily ate granny. Then, repeated his feast when the little girl arrived. He ate her as well! Two hunters in the woods, were walking near grannies door. They saw the wolf and his great big stomach. They cut the stomach open, releasing Red Riding Hood and her grandmother.
As usual, the illustrations are simply beautiful and exquisitely detailed!
Little Red Riding Hood by Gennady Spirin
Gennady Spirin tried something new with the illustrations of this book. Many of the images look like something from the Dutch golden age of the 17th century. And, since the Dutch painters have always been favorites of mine, I immediately liked this book.
In this story of the classic tale of young Red Riding Hood taking a basket of food to her grandmother. To do so, she must go through the woods. She is told to stay on the path and not to wander. Alas, she did not listen. Picking flowers for her grandmother allowed the big bad wolf to hurry to grandmother's house before Red Riding Hood arrived there. He hastily ate granny. Then, repeated his feast when the little girl arrived. He ate her as well! Two hunters in the woods, were walking near grannies door. They saw the wolf and his great big stomach. They cut the stomach open, releasing Red Riding Hood and her grandmother.
As usual, the illustrations are simply beautiful and exquisitely detailed!
46Whisper1
BOOK #13 Read in the Month of February 2024
Cinderella A Fairy Tale Adventure by Francesca Rossi
Beautifully illustrated and written to shorten the longer story, this book carries the story well. We all know the tale of the step child who was made to sweep the chimney dust and clean from morning to night until a magical pumpkin carriage carried her away to the castle where the prince becomes smitten with her.
Told she cannot stay past miidnight, she looses a glass slipper while rushing down the castle's beautiful stairs. She returns with memories, but disappointment knowing that magical time in the castle could not be a realistic life for her.
Nasty, ugly in spirit and looks , the step mother awaits as well as her two equally nasty and dowdy step daughters try on the slipper. When told the prince is in pursuit of finding his lovely princess, they hide her away so they may have a better chance of having the slipper fit. Alas, Cincerella is discovered and the shoe fits only her foot.
She lives happily ever after with the prince who ecomes King?.
Most likely in real life do we hold on to this dreamy story beause it is so beautifully told?
Would room service deliver a magical cream to take away the warts and disfigurements?
Once the have a magical life, do they wish for more, a better, more perfect mate with more affordable housing, steak and baked potatoes on the table every night? Would there kindness to the gardener who clips the roses?
In truth, relationships are very difficult and keeping appearances is near impossible as we age.
Looking toward:
Would Cincerella's slipper continue to fit her feet long after bunions, and hard toe nails?
Would the sisters be invited back to the castle, this time as beloved family members? Or, will heads roll as the punishment is meted to the nasty, older children?
Would Cinderella forgive the step nothings? And would they be allowed access to borrow some of her dresses when they attended future balls, and how many weight watchers sessions much they attend until they can fit into one of the gowns?
And, what of the nasty step mother? After attending many counseling sessions, does she have a magical awakening regarding how to treat her step child?
Is there a question asked regarding the skin color of the baby now carried by the princess?
Will the ugly step mothre and her daughters be given a very nice abode that they believe should bb e better?
Would their dresses be judged as opulent as the queen?
.jpg)
Cinderella A Fairy Tale Adventure by Francesca Rossi
Beautifully illustrated and written to shorten the longer story, this book carries the story well. We all know the tale of the step child who was made to sweep the chimney dust and clean from morning to night until a magical pumpkin carriage carried her away to the castle where the prince becomes smitten with her.
Told she cannot stay past miidnight, she looses a glass slipper while rushing down the castle's beautiful stairs. She returns with memories, but disappointment knowing that magical time in the castle could not be a realistic life for her.
Nasty, ugly in spirit and looks , the step mother awaits as well as her two equally nasty and dowdy step daughters try on the slipper. When told the prince is in pursuit of finding his lovely princess, they hide her away so they may have a better chance of having the slipper fit. Alas, Cincerella is discovered and the shoe fits only her foot.
She lives happily ever after with the prince who ecomes King?.
Most likely in real life do we hold on to this dreamy story beause it is so beautifully told?
Would room service deliver a magical cream to take away the warts and disfigurements?
Once the have a magical life, do they wish for more, a better, more perfect mate with more affordable housing, steak and baked potatoes on the table every night? Would there kindness to the gardener who clips the roses?
In truth, relationships are very difficult and keeping appearances is near impossible as we age.
Looking toward:
Would Cincerella's slipper continue to fit her feet long after bunions, and hard toe nails?
Would the sisters be invited back to the castle, this time as beloved family members? Or, will heads roll as the punishment is meted to the nasty, older children?
Would Cinderella forgive the step nothings? And would they be allowed access to borrow some of her dresses when they attended future balls, and how many weight watchers sessions much they attend until they can fit into one of the gowns?
And, what of the nasty step mother? After attending many counseling sessions, does she have a magical awakening regarding how to treat her step child?
Is there a question asked regarding the skin color of the baby now carried by the princess?
Will the ugly step mothre and her daughters be given a very nice abode that they believe should bb e better?
Would their dresses be judged as opulent as the queen?
.jpg)
47Whisper1
BOOK #14 Read February 2024
I Wonder If I'll See A Whale written by Frances Ward Weller Illustrated by Ted Lewin
If you never saw a whale, you are missing a wonderful experience. This is the story of a young girl who is on a ship with her father. As she gazes into the wide ocean, she hopes she will see magic -- she hopes she will see a whale. It is morning and the ocean is clear and stunningly beautiful as the morning sun reflects her image in the water.
She's been on the ship before when the ocean's sunny water in the morning and turned to pink as the sunset hit the water, and like a mirror, the image of the sun, now pink is stunningly beautiful..but there is no whale that day. Down 100 feet are tiny fis. In the spring, the whales arrive for the warmer water as the songs of courting and the birth of babies occcur. But, there are names given to the crew of the large whales known for their markings.
Again, another day, and no spotting of a whale. The girl knows to look for those given the names of Appaloosa with a tail specked and spotty like a pony's markings. Then, there is trunk who has a stubby dorsal find. Midnight is all very black. The girl excitedly looks for a whale, one with the markings would be like a gift in hand. But, not that day. Perhaps they will come to the top of the water another day. The girl knows they are worth waiting for.
The girl's father tells her it is the humpbacks who come to the boats. They are the ones to look for today. But, again, there are no whales. As the afternoon sun beats on her back, making her remove her jacket and still keep looking and hoping, always hoping.
Straight ahead, the captain of the vessel sees two sprouts. He quickly turns the boat full throttle, hopefull in the path of where the water gushed up from the waves. The one called Mushroom is there. She also has her baby right by her side as they both roll toward the vessel. There is hope! A lot of hope! The baby is seen and named that day. The baby is called Snowball. Two whales are seen, and that brings excitement.
Now, the captain notes that as the bitter cold water starts to roll and tot he port the water brings bubbles, lots of bubbles. The bubbles become circles to entice the small fish to the top so they can feed from them. And NOW, the ocean rolls and huge gapping jaws open, and as the laughing galls eat the fish right from the mouth of the whales, there is great excitement.
Where should she look? Should the girl look for the terns, the boiling water, the sound of the whales rising from the deep as they splash and turn and then go low so they can breath, only to rise again and a huge black whale jumps right out of the water, higher and higher again and again, diving for breath and up again high into the air.
Now the whale puts on a show of turning and splashing and now, going under the boat, arising form the other side the cold spray of air and water hits the girl as she smiles and laughs. "This one is called Trunk!" And the girl looks at him and he in turn looks at her.
As the writer notes, it is a holy moment, like being in church. It happens so sudden and beautiful that the girl holds her breath.trunk knows they are there not to harm, but to watch the dance of the whale. Now, the sky is bring yellow and pink. The whale was watched for a long period of time.
This is the blessed time -- the time of the whale when she quitely goes underwater, and out to sea she gives one last look at the vessel and moves further, further out to sea,
What a day!!!
-----------------------------
Personally, I've had this experience. One summer, on vacation, my family paid to go aboard a ship leaving from the deck behind, out into the water to look for the whale.
There is no other experience like it! I still remember it to this day. the whales seem to come to the boat so closely that we could almost touch them.
To see the majesty of this creature leaves the observer quiet and breathless. To watch the water come out of the spout is like a show, better than Disneyworld; better than fire works. To closely observe a whale is indeed a holy experience.
![]()
I Wonder If I'll See A Whale written by Frances Ward Weller Illustrated by Ted Lewin
If you never saw a whale, you are missing a wonderful experience. This is the story of a young girl who is on a ship with her father. As she gazes into the wide ocean, she hopes she will see magic -- she hopes she will see a whale. It is morning and the ocean is clear and stunningly beautiful as the morning sun reflects her image in the water.
She's been on the ship before when the ocean's sunny water in the morning and turned to pink as the sunset hit the water, and like a mirror, the image of the sun, now pink is stunningly beautiful..but there is no whale that day. Down 100 feet are tiny fis. In the spring, the whales arrive for the warmer water as the songs of courting and the birth of babies occcur. But, there are names given to the crew of the large whales known for their markings.
Again, another day, and no spotting of a whale. The girl knows to look for those given the names of Appaloosa with a tail specked and spotty like a pony's markings. Then, there is trunk who has a stubby dorsal find. Midnight is all very black. The girl excitedly looks for a whale, one with the markings would be like a gift in hand. But, not that day. Perhaps they will come to the top of the water another day. The girl knows they are worth waiting for.
The girl's father tells her it is the humpbacks who come to the boats. They are the ones to look for today. But, again, there are no whales. As the afternoon sun beats on her back, making her remove her jacket and still keep looking and hoping, always hoping.
Straight ahead, the captain of the vessel sees two sprouts. He quickly turns the boat full throttle, hopefull in the path of where the water gushed up from the waves. The one called Mushroom is there. She also has her baby right by her side as they both roll toward the vessel. There is hope! A lot of hope! The baby is seen and named that day. The baby is called Snowball. Two whales are seen, and that brings excitement.
Now, the captain notes that as the bitter cold water starts to roll and tot he port the water brings bubbles, lots of bubbles. The bubbles become circles to entice the small fish to the top so they can feed from them. And NOW, the ocean rolls and huge gapping jaws open, and as the laughing galls eat the fish right from the mouth of the whales, there is great excitement.
Where should she look? Should the girl look for the terns, the boiling water, the sound of the whales rising from the deep as they splash and turn and then go low so they can breath, only to rise again and a huge black whale jumps right out of the water, higher and higher again and again, diving for breath and up again high into the air.
Now the whale puts on a show of turning and splashing and now, going under the boat, arising form the other side the cold spray of air and water hits the girl as she smiles and laughs. "This one is called Trunk!" And the girl looks at him and he in turn looks at her.
As the writer notes, it is a holy moment, like being in church. It happens so sudden and beautiful that the girl holds her breath.trunk knows they are there not to harm, but to watch the dance of the whale. Now, the sky is bring yellow and pink. The whale was watched for a long period of time.
This is the blessed time -- the time of the whale when she quitely goes underwater, and out to sea she gives one last look at the vessel and moves further, further out to sea,
What a day!!!
-----------------------------
Personally, I've had this experience. One summer, on vacation, my family paid to go aboard a ship leaving from the deck behind, out into the water to look for the whale.
There is no other experience like it! I still remember it to this day. the whales seem to come to the boat so closely that we could almost touch them.
To see the majesty of this creature leaves the observer quiet and breathless. To watch the water come out of the spout is like a show, better than Disneyworld; better than fire works. To closely observe a whale is indeed a holy experience.
48Whisper1
BOOK #16 is left for tomorrow. For now, , I will remember the holiness of watching the whales.
49Whisper1
BOOK #15 Read February 2024
Rumpelstiltskin by The Brothers Grimm Retold by Alison Sage illustrated by Gennady Spirin
The Brothers Grimm are well known as the writers of amazing fairy tales. This is the story of a poor man, a miller, with a beautiful daughter named Rose. His luck was out, his money gone, he decided to set off for the palace of the King and plead his case for the King to fall in love with his beautiful daughter.
Weaving a tale of lies, the miller told the King his daughter could spin straw into gold. Interested, the King told him to return to the palce with his daughter, and if what he said was true, he would be richly rewarded. But, if Rose failed, she will lose her head. The father was shocked and admitted his lie. "Too Bad!" said the King.
He returned home and his daughter and told her what he said to the king. She said there was nothing left to do, but she would plead with the King. Seeing the beautiful Rose, while he was captivated by her beauty, he told her that before morning every piece of straw in the room where he was placing her, had to be turned into gold, or else, her head would be chopped off.
As Rose sat at the spinning wheel in the room weeping, there was a strange voice that came from an ugly little man with a funny hat and a long grey beard. He told Rose he could help her. In return she gave him her gold necklace that belonged to her grandmother. Sitting at the spinning wheel, he quickly spun every piece of straw into beautiful gold. The little man disappeared. The King entered and greedily demanded more by the next day.
Placing her in the second room with more straw, he demanded the same to be fulfilled by the next morning. Rose wept. Then, again the reedyly little voice told her he would spin the straw to gold. In return she gave him a gold ring given to her by her mother. The next day the King entered the room to the excitement of piles and piles of stunning gold. But, again, this was not enough, he wanted more, more.
The third night, he locked Rose in the room three times as big as before. Again, telling her to work her magic, or she would lose her head. Suddenly, the screechy sound of the ugly little man was heard as he jumped up and down in excitement, "What will you give me this time?" he asked. Rose had nothing left to give. Sadly, Rose said, "But, if you take pity on me now, I'll give you anything you want when I am Queen!"
Jumping up and down the ugly little man told Rose that if he spun all this gold she must give him her first born child. Rose agreed.
The next day, the room was filled with gold, and the King was excited. Not only did he have the wealth of all this gold, but now he had a beautiful wife.
As The Brothers Grimm write, many months passed, and Rose held a pretty little baby in her arms. So happy, she forgot the ugly little man and the promise she gave him. As she cried, the ugly man told her that she should stop crying. If she could guess his name, all is well. But if she could not guess his name, the baby would be his.
He visited her the first night to hear the names she called him. None were correct. The second night, again the names were wrong, and now the ugly man had gleen in his eyes believing the third night the beautiful baby would be his.
As fortune was in the hands of Rose, the King said while hunting he saw and ugly little man with a long gray beard spinning gold and sing a song saying his name was RTUMPELSTILTSKIN!
When he returned the next day, Rose told him his name. He was so mad he spun round and spun round and round while screaming. He as goneleaving Rose with a baby and the King.
This story has a happy ending.
Rumpelstiltskin by The Brothers Grimm Retold by Alison Sage illustrated by Gennady Spirin
The Brothers Grimm are well known as the writers of amazing fairy tales. This is the story of a poor man, a miller, with a beautiful daughter named Rose. His luck was out, his money gone, he decided to set off for the palace of the King and plead his case for the King to fall in love with his beautiful daughter.
Weaving a tale of lies, the miller told the King his daughter could spin straw into gold. Interested, the King told him to return to the palce with his daughter, and if what he said was true, he would be richly rewarded. But, if Rose failed, she will lose her head. The father was shocked and admitted his lie. "Too Bad!" said the King.
He returned home and his daughter and told her what he said to the king. She said there was nothing left to do, but she would plead with the King. Seeing the beautiful Rose, while he was captivated by her beauty, he told her that before morning every piece of straw in the room where he was placing her, had to be turned into gold, or else, her head would be chopped off.
As Rose sat at the spinning wheel in the room weeping, there was a strange voice that came from an ugly little man with a funny hat and a long grey beard. He told Rose he could help her. In return she gave him her gold necklace that belonged to her grandmother. Sitting at the spinning wheel, he quickly spun every piece of straw into beautiful gold. The little man disappeared. The King entered and greedily demanded more by the next day.
Placing her in the second room with more straw, he demanded the same to be fulfilled by the next morning. Rose wept. Then, again the reedyly little voice told her he would spin the straw to gold. In return she gave him a gold ring given to her by her mother. The next day the King entered the room to the excitement of piles and piles of stunning gold. But, again, this was not enough, he wanted more, more.
The third night, he locked Rose in the room three times as big as before. Again, telling her to work her magic, or she would lose her head. Suddenly, the screechy sound of the ugly little man was heard as he jumped up and down in excitement, "What will you give me this time?" he asked. Rose had nothing left to give. Sadly, Rose said, "But, if you take pity on me now, I'll give you anything you want when I am Queen!"
Jumping up and down the ugly little man told Rose that if he spun all this gold she must give him her first born child. Rose agreed.
The next day, the room was filled with gold, and the King was excited. Not only did he have the wealth of all this gold, but now he had a beautiful wife.
As The Brothers Grimm write, many months passed, and Rose held a pretty little baby in her arms. So happy, she forgot the ugly little man and the promise she gave him. As she cried, the ugly man told her that she should stop crying. If she could guess his name, all is well. But if she could not guess his name, the baby would be his.
He visited her the first night to hear the names she called him. None were correct. The second night, again the names were wrong, and now the ugly man had gleen in his eyes believing the third night the beautiful baby would be his.
As fortune was in the hands of Rose, the King said while hunting he saw and ugly little man with a long gray beard spinning gold and sing a song saying his name was RTUMPELSTILTSKIN!
When he returned the next day, Rose told him his name. He was so mad he spun round and spun round and round while screaming. He as goneleaving Rose with a baby and the King.
This story has a happy ending.
50Whisper1
BOOK #16 Read February 2024
Madeline's Rescue by Ludwig Bemelmans
The is the first book I've read in the series regarding Madeline. I'll be sure to read more. In this rhyming book, Madelne's adventure includes the story of 12 little girls walking the two straight lines, leaving the house at half past nine.
Madeline, living in Paris, France is the smallest, fell from the wall and was rescued by a dog. The dog became part of the every day life of the group of the girls and their Mistress who took care of them. When a huge snow storm occurred, Lord Cucuface that the dog was a perfect disgrace and ushered him out the door into the snow.
The hunt for the dog was fruitless, and at night finally he was found. The 12 girls continued to argue regarding who would have the dog sleep with them. If they did not stop fighting the dog would need to leave. As the Mistress who previously made the dog stay outside discovered, there was a litter of puppies awaiting their dog.
All were more than happy as each little girl had her own dog to walk and pet all day and night long.
I liked the snappy poetic rhyming of the story!
Madeline's Rescue by Ludwig Bemelmans
The is the first book I've read in the series regarding Madeline. I'll be sure to read more. In this rhyming book, Madelne's adventure includes the story of 12 little girls walking the two straight lines, leaving the house at half past nine.
Madeline, living in Paris, France is the smallest, fell from the wall and was rescued by a dog. The dog became part of the every day life of the group of the girls and their Mistress who took care of them. When a huge snow storm occurred, Lord Cucuface that the dog was a perfect disgrace and ushered him out the door into the snow.
The hunt for the dog was fruitless, and at night finally he was found. The 12 girls continued to argue regarding who would have the dog sleep with them. If they did not stop fighting the dog would need to leave. As the Mistress who previously made the dog stay outside discovered, there was a litter of puppies awaiting their dog.
All were more than happy as each little girl had her own dog to walk and pet all day and night long.
I liked the snappy poetic rhyming of the story!
51m.belljackson
Linda - where did your Family go to see the whales?!
53Berly
Nice job carefully and steadily cleaning out the piles. I should do the same! But clearly you are more motivated than me, LOL. Your silly ferret sounds adorable and I am glad he is giving you lots of laughs. And seeing whales truly is awe inspiring! Have a wonderful day, Linda. : )
54Whisper1
Drat, somehow I deleted the Stinky the ferret story. Here is is again:
Stinky the ferret gets in a lot of trouble. In frustration, my granddaughter and I sometimes say "We really cannot take much more; maybe we should find another home for Stinky." Then, we realize we really cannot do that. We brought Stinky into our lives and we love him a lot.
One particular night, Stinky was running around the room, Kayla calls this "his zoomies," then he stopped and crawled up into my lap. He was tired from his escapades and fell asleep. I looked down at him to see a sleeping Stinky the Ferret. He was cradled in my hands, small little paws in the air. As I looked closer, I saw two little eyes closed, his face looked like he was wearing a mask, his nose was in the air, and I saw two soft pink ears.
I was in awe at the beauty of every little object so perfectly made. I realized Stinky is a creature of God, and even though we get frustrated, and no doubt, the house would be calmer, but it also would be empty without him.
Thus, Stinky the Ferret has a reprieve!
Stinky the ferret gets in a lot of trouble. In frustration, my granddaughter and I sometimes say "We really cannot take much more; maybe we should find another home for Stinky." Then, we realize we really cannot do that. We brought Stinky into our lives and we love him a lot.
One particular night, Stinky was running around the room, Kayla calls this "his zoomies," then he stopped and crawled up into my lap. He was tired from his escapades and fell asleep. I looked down at him to see a sleeping Stinky the Ferret. He was cradled in my hands, small little paws in the air. As I looked closer, I saw two little eyes closed, his face looked like he was wearing a mask, his nose was in the air, and I saw two soft pink ears.
I was in awe at the beauty of every little object so perfectly made. I realized Stinky is a creature of God, and even though we get frustrated, and no doubt, the house would be calmer, but it also would be empty without him.
Thus, Stinky the Ferret has a reprieve!
55m.belljackson
>54 Whisper1: Linda - So good that Stinky has calmed down so that you can totally enjoy him!
Tomorrow, I'll send you the titles of the EIGHT books that my daughter gave me -
all with EIGHT or EIGHTY for my 80th, cleverly connected to Eight Cards and Stickers.
Tomorrow, I'll send you the titles of the EIGHT books that my daughter gave me -
all with EIGHT or EIGHTY for my 80th, cleverly connected to Eight Cards and Stickers.
56Whisper1
>54 Whisper1: Your daugther loves you, that's for sure!!! Happy Birthday!!!
57vancouverdeb
So many tales I loved as a child. Sleeping Beauty and Little Red Riding Hood. Sorting through photographs and books and household effects is very difficult. I'm glad you are feeling happy seeing the results. I struggle with what to keep and what to throw away too. I think I surprised my younger son several weeks ago when he and our grandchildren came over to visit. Melissa had a lost a tooth and when I saw that, I went and got a little heart shaped box I have with some of William's baby teeth that I have kept. He is now 33, soon to be 34. I explained to Melissa that the tooth fairy had allowed me to keep a some of William's teeth.
58Whisper1
>57 vancouverdeb: Deb, What a wonderful story. I can only imagine the delight of your granddaughter's reaction to your story!! This is a perfect way to describe what to keep. You saved Melissa from feeling sad, and you made the perfect story to allow her to cherish her father's tooth. That was amazing thinking that saved the day!
59Whisper1
>51 m.belljackson: Marianne, I believe we were in Mystic, CT, but I'm not sure that is where we took the boat ride that allowed us to see so many whales. We spent two weeks in New England.
>52 BLBera: Beth, I am tremendously enjoying all the illustrated books I have, or get from the library. Thanks for stopping by!
>53 Berly: Hi Kim, It is good to see you here! I'm making piles some are marked to be give to the library, read, but want to keep (these are usually those with illustrations of Gennady Spirin,) and then there is a large box of TBR books.
>52 BLBera: Beth, I am tremendously enjoying all the illustrated books I have, or get from the library. Thanks for stopping by!
>53 Berly: Hi Kim, It is good to see you here! I'm making piles some are marked to be give to the library, read, but want to keep (these are usually those with illustrations of Gennady Spirin,) and then there is a large box of TBR books.
60SandDune
>54 Whisper1: I loved that story of Stinky the ferret. I can't say that I have ever really encountered a ferret, but I like most animals, so I would probably like ferrets too.
61arubabookwoman
Would love to see a picture of Stinky the ferret if you have any.
62johnsimpson
Hi Linda my dear, a belated Happy New Thread my dear friend.
63m.belljackson
Linda - The first of the "Eighty" books I plan to read is EIGHTY DAYS -
the saga of the Race Around the World by Nellie Bly and Elizabeth Bisland.
You may want this one, along with EIGHTY YEARS AND MORE by Elizabeth Cady Stanton.
the saga of the Race Around the World by Nellie Bly and Elizabeth Bisland.
You may want this one, along with EIGHTY YEARS AND MORE by Elizabeth Cady Stanton.
64Whisper1
>60 SandDune: The ferret grew on me. Kayla asked for him as a highschool graduation present. She worked in a pet shop at the time, and the cage containing ferrets, was near the check out counter. Her co-workers and the man who owned the store noticed that this particular feret was very attached to her. And if she was out of the store for a few days, when she returned, the small critter was very excited.
>61 arubabookwoman: Deb. I'll take a photo tomorrow and try to upload it..If I can remember how to do this.
>62 johnsimpson: Hi John. So good to see you here. I'll write more tomorrow. In the meantime, thanks for visiting.
>63 m.belljackson: Happy Birthday! Is your bd today or tomorrow? EIGHTY DAYS is a book I think I would like. Most likely, my local library has this one. And the second one recommend will be added to my list as well.
I had an infusion to the pump yesterday and I'm dragging today. A bad headache and tiredness. I'll be find tomorrow.
>61 arubabookwoman: Deb. I'll take a photo tomorrow and try to upload it..If I can remember how to do this.
>62 johnsimpson: Hi John. So good to see you here. I'll write more tomorrow. In the meantime, thanks for visiting.
>63 m.belljackson: Happy Birthday! Is your bd today or tomorrow? EIGHTY DAYS is a book I think I would like. Most likely, my local library has this one. And the second one recommend will be added to my list as well.
I had an infusion to the pump yesterday and I'm dragging today. A bad headache and tiredness. I'll be find tomorrow.
65Whisper1
BOOK 17 READ IN FEBRUARY 2024
The Lioness of Boston by Emily Franklin
This is an indepth look at high society in Boston and how Isabella Stewart Gardner did not fit it. She beat out the snobs. In the end, she had her own very impressive museum that stands today!
A wonderful story of snobs that looked down on her. She didn't fit in, and while originally it bothered her, she decided to live her own life on her own terms.
Sadly, her only child, a little boy, died at age two. Her grief was severe. She travled to Asia and throughout Europe where she became froms with Henry Janes, John Singer Sargent and Oscar Wilde as well as a host of other notables.
She was quite eccentric and lived life as she saw it. She was indeed a trailblazer, particularly in the art world where she began to collect many incredible paitings for her museum, still standing today in Boston, MA. She was painted by Sargent. Skipping the pinkies- in- the- air society, after knowing she was not going to, nor did she want to belong to them, as the author notes, she was so interesting that she once walked a pair of lions in the Boston Public Garden!
Tragically in 1990, theives portraying as police entered her beautiful museum and took away with paintings that could never be replaced.
I very much liked this book, but felt it seemed to ramble mid way. In my opinion there were too many pages of repetitive events. I would have rated the book higher if not for the tendency to rooam too much.
four stars
The Lioness of Boston by Emily Franklin
This is an indepth look at high society in Boston and how Isabella Stewart Gardner did not fit it. She beat out the snobs. In the end, she had her own very impressive museum that stands today!
A wonderful story of snobs that looked down on her. She didn't fit in, and while originally it bothered her, she decided to live her own life on her own terms.
Sadly, her only child, a little boy, died at age two. Her grief was severe. She travled to Asia and throughout Europe where she became froms with Henry Janes, John Singer Sargent and Oscar Wilde as well as a host of other notables.
She was quite eccentric and lived life as she saw it. She was indeed a trailblazer, particularly in the art world where she began to collect many incredible paitings for her museum, still standing today in Boston, MA. She was painted by Sargent. Skipping the pinkies- in- the- air society, after knowing she was not going to, nor did she want to belong to them, as the author notes, she was so interesting that she once walked a pair of lions in the Boston Public Garden!
Tragically in 1990, theives portraying as police entered her beautiful museum and took away with paintings that could never be replaced.
I very much liked this book, but felt it seemed to ramble mid way. In my opinion there were too many pages of repetitive events. I would have rated the book higher if not for the tendency to rooam too much.
four stars
66Whisper1
BOOK #18 READ IN THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY 2024
Stuck by Oliver Jeffers
When Floyd got his kite stuck high in the tree, he knew he was too small to climb the tree, instead, to no avail, he threw his shoe, his cat Mitch, his ladder, a buket of paint, a duck, a chair, his friend's bike, the kitchen sink, the front door to the house, the family car, the milkman, an orangutan, a small boat to knock down the orangutan, a big boat to knock down the small boat, a rhinoceros the knock down the big boat, a long-distance truck to knock down the rhino, and the ouse across the street.
As the tree continued to get cramped with all the objects thrown at it and stuck in it, he continued by throwing in a lighthouse, a whale, and a passing firetruck with fireman thrown one by one.
And, as the book notes, there they stayed, every single one of them. Trying to think harder to be successful, he hurled a saw. Ahah, there was success as the kite came down. Forgetting everything else, Floyd went to happily play with his kite. Late at night, just before falling asleep, he remembered that he forgot all the items in the tree.
As a funny ending, Jeffers had the reader know that Floyd wasn't done throwing objects at the tree and he thought "Hang on a minute, I've got a great idea."
At first I didn't like this book, thinking there were others by the author that I enjoyed more. But, when reading it again, I realized the creativity of Jeffers, and knew if the intended audience was a small child, that child would find the book very funny.
I found Jeffer's a first-class story teller. Placing himself in the mind of a little stubborn boy, this author and his book are winners!
Stuck by Oliver Jeffers
When Floyd got his kite stuck high in the tree, he knew he was too small to climb the tree, instead, to no avail, he threw his shoe, his cat Mitch, his ladder, a buket of paint, a duck, a chair, his friend's bike, the kitchen sink, the front door to the house, the family car, the milkman, an orangutan, a small boat to knock down the orangutan, a big boat to knock down the small boat, a rhinoceros the knock down the big boat, a long-distance truck to knock down the rhino, and the ouse across the street.
As the tree continued to get cramped with all the objects thrown at it and stuck in it, he continued by throwing in a lighthouse, a whale, and a passing firetruck with fireman thrown one by one.
And, as the book notes, there they stayed, every single one of them. Trying to think harder to be successful, he hurled a saw. Ahah, there was success as the kite came down. Forgetting everything else, Floyd went to happily play with his kite. Late at night, just before falling asleep, he remembered that he forgot all the items in the tree.
As a funny ending, Jeffers had the reader know that Floyd wasn't done throwing objects at the tree and he thought "Hang on a minute, I've got a great idea."
At first I didn't like this book, thinking there were others by the author that I enjoyed more. But, when reading it again, I realized the creativity of Jeffers, and knew if the intended audience was a small child, that child would find the book very funny.
I found Jeffer's a first-class story teller. Placing himself in the mind of a little stubborn boy, this author and his book are winners!
67Familyhistorian
Happy new thread, Linda. It is brightened by all the pictures, especially the one of you and Will. I hope you feel much better tomorrow.
69Whisper1
>67 Familyhistorian: Hi Meg, thanks for stopping by. That photo was taken at the annual gathering of his family. Their tradition is a Greek spinach pie one the first Saturday of the New Year. As Will's smile attests, we always have a wonderful time. April 19th will be the 5th anniversary of Will's passing. I am still invited to the family gatherings, and feel blessed by the continued inclusion.
The only member left of the original family is will's Uncle who turned 102 in July of 2022. He no longer can attend the events because of mobility issues, but we call him and take the time for each of us to speak to him. This is a loving, caring family. Interestingly, there are a few members on his father's side of the family that brought a lot of tension to our relationship.
Thanks for your special message!
>68 Berly: Hello Dear Kim! I always smile when I see a post from you. You bring joy to my life, as well as a big smile! Thanks as always.
The only member left of the original family is will's Uncle who turned 102 in July of 2022. He no longer can attend the events because of mobility issues, but we call him and take the time for each of us to speak to him. This is a loving, caring family. Interestingly, there are a few members on his father's side of the family that brought a lot of tension to our relationship.
Thanks for your special message!
>68 Berly: Hello Dear Kim! I always smile when I see a post from you. You bring joy to my life, as well as a big smile! Thanks as always.
70Owltherian
Hi Linda! Hope your having a way better day than me.
71Whisper1
>70 Owltherian: I'm sorry your day is not a good one.
72Owltherian
>71 Whisper1: I have a cold and slept for an extra 2 hours today...wish i didn't though cuz now I'm not tired and i am already never able to sleep.
73Whisper1
As I age, my sleeping patterns are all over the place. Often, I am up until 2-3 a.m. then sleep a lot during the morning.
I hope today is a better day for you.
I hope today is a better day for you.
74thornton37814
>28 Whisper1: I started to check that one out when it came out a few years ago, but I never got around to reading it. I think it was one of the ones we sent back, so I never read it. Sounds like I didn't miss much!
>50 Whisper1: I've enjoyed the Madeleine books I've read, but I have only read two or three, and I doubt I'd remember which ones.
>50 Whisper1: I've enjoyed the Madeleine books I've read, but I have only read two or three, and I doubt I'd remember which ones.
75Donna828
It's good to get caught up with you again, Linda. I haven't been posting much in the last few weeks. Too busy with life and reading.
>24 Whisper1: Oh my. What a lovely picture of you and your dear Will. I know you miss him so much. It's comforting that you have 22 years of good memories.
I love hearing more stories about Stinky. How funny that he had that attachment to Kayla in the pet store and that he was a graduation present. My Molly got two guinea pigs last month. I have only seen them one time so haven't gotten attached to them. Our kids had hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs and rabbits when they were growing up (along with the family dog). No ferrets. Stinky sounds like a lot of fun. How wonderful that he is housetrained. They must be smart little critters.
I also need to go through things and downsize a bit. I am committed to way too many things right now but some of them end in the summer. I may try your method and work at the hidden piles in closets and the basement for an hour or so a day. It sounds less stressful rather than undertaking the whole project at once. Thanks for the tip.
>24 Whisper1: Oh my. What a lovely picture of you and your dear Will. I know you miss him so much. It's comforting that you have 22 years of good memories.
I love hearing more stories about Stinky. How funny that he had that attachment to Kayla in the pet store and that he was a graduation present. My Molly got two guinea pigs last month. I have only seen them one time so haven't gotten attached to them. Our kids had hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs and rabbits when they were growing up (along with the family dog). No ferrets. Stinky sounds like a lot of fun. How wonderful that he is housetrained. They must be smart little critters.
I also need to go through things and downsize a bit. I am committed to way too many things right now but some of them end in the summer. I may try your method and work at the hidden piles in closets and the basement for an hour or so a day. It sounds less stressful rather than undertaking the whole project at once. Thanks for the tip.
76Whisper1
>74 thornton37814: Hi Lori. Thanks for the vist here. This was the first Madeleine books I read. I'll read more. The author has a sense of humor that made me smile as I read many pages.
>75 Donna828: Thanks for your comment regarding the photo of Will and me. It was grand daugther Kayla's 21st birthday yesterday. We both smiled and said Hi to him as we lit the candles on the cake. He would be so proud of her. They always had a very special relationship. He loved her so very much. And, he continues to be one of her lifetime mentors. He would be so proud of her. As time goes on, the list grows longer of occasions when we both wish he was with us. I do believe he is watching over us. I know this in my heart.
Stinky brings joy and laughter, and frustration. He gets into so darn much trouble. If he could talk, I think he would tell us that he just cannot help it.
Yesterday, I watched as the cat--I call her Meow, Meow, and Kayla named her Biscuit-- waited was on the edge of the bed waiting until Stinky walked by. She then pounced on her and they continued to roll around on the carpet. To see it is to beleive it and to laugh right out loud.
I am giving away a lot of books after I read them. I vow to have a few shelves of favorites, but to donate books right after I finish them, unless....... Oh, well, there are always reasons to keep a book.
>75 Donna828: Thanks for your comment regarding the photo of Will and me. It was grand daugther Kayla's 21st birthday yesterday. We both smiled and said Hi to him as we lit the candles on the cake. He would be so proud of her. They always had a very special relationship. He loved her so very much. And, he continues to be one of her lifetime mentors. He would be so proud of her. As time goes on, the list grows longer of occasions when we both wish he was with us. I do believe he is watching over us. I know this in my heart.
Stinky brings joy and laughter, and frustration. He gets into so darn much trouble. If he could talk, I think he would tell us that he just cannot help it.
Yesterday, I watched as the cat--I call her Meow, Meow, and Kayla named her Biscuit-- waited was on the edge of the bed waiting until Stinky walked by. She then pounced on her and they continued to roll around on the carpet. To see it is to beleive it and to laugh right out loud.
I am giving away a lot of books after I read them. I vow to have a few shelves of favorites, but to donate books right after I finish them, unless....... Oh, well, there are always reasons to keep a book.
77Whisper1
BOOK #19 OF FEBRUARY 2024
My Friend Earth by Patricia MacLachlan with beautiful illustrations of Francesca Sanna
What a delightful feast for the eyes. I read this, read it again, then again. The sheer beauty of the writing and the exquisite illustrations lead me to return this to the library and then purchase a personal copy. While my new years resolution for 2024 is to cull my books and only keep those at the top of the list, this one certainly qualifies as a keeper.
Interestingly, the artist chose to use a cut out format to the illustrations so that one page lead to another to another and yet another.
Beginning with the winter awakening from a nap, the first cut out leading to page two focuses on the sounds of spring and the caw of crows. The earth contains spiders with beautiful webs, and large birds crossing the sea while there is a mole underground making a path. The earth guides the chimp to her night nest, while the zebra finds his mother from the other hundreds of black and white stripes mesh together, but are unique in their pattern.
As the other seasons progress, the winter returns as the reindeer living on the tundra graze for food while the ice glistens and the baby polar bears carefully navigate via their padded paws. As the Friend eart pours summer rains to fill the streams throughout the fields and downhill of the mountains, the water flows out to the sea. The earth blows hearty autumn winds the sweep the trees as the colored leaves float to the ground.
As the winter coats the earth once again with snow and ice, the mother animals find dens for their babies to be born and hibernate until once again the spring returns.
Stunningly beautiful this book is one to enjoy, like the seasons, changing again and again.
If she writes young adult Newbery books, or works with imaginative artists to create increibly beautifully illustrated books, this is a writer who deserves to be one of the best of the best and favorite to many.
FIVE STARS
My Friend Earth by Patricia MacLachlan with beautiful illustrations of Francesca Sanna
What a delightful feast for the eyes. I read this, read it again, then again. The sheer beauty of the writing and the exquisite illustrations lead me to return this to the library and then purchase a personal copy. While my new years resolution for 2024 is to cull my books and only keep those at the top of the list, this one certainly qualifies as a keeper.
Interestingly, the artist chose to use a cut out format to the illustrations so that one page lead to another to another and yet another.
Beginning with the winter awakening from a nap, the first cut out leading to page two focuses on the sounds of spring and the caw of crows. The earth contains spiders with beautiful webs, and large birds crossing the sea while there is a mole underground making a path. The earth guides the chimp to her night nest, while the zebra finds his mother from the other hundreds of black and white stripes mesh together, but are unique in their pattern.
As the other seasons progress, the winter returns as the reindeer living on the tundra graze for food while the ice glistens and the baby polar bears carefully navigate via their padded paws. As the Friend eart pours summer rains to fill the streams throughout the fields and downhill of the mountains, the water flows out to the sea. The earth blows hearty autumn winds the sweep the trees as the colored leaves float to the ground.
As the winter coats the earth once again with snow and ice, the mother animals find dens for their babies to be born and hibernate until once again the spring returns.
Stunningly beautiful this book is one to enjoy, like the seasons, changing again and again.
If she writes young adult Newbery books, or works with imaginative artists to create increibly beautifully illustrated books, this is a writer who deserves to be one of the best of the best and favorite to many.
FIVE STARS
78curioussquared
Linda -- somehow I think I missed this new thread of yours! I hope you had a nice weekend. Please keep sharing stories of Stinky the ferret -- they are hilarious!
79thornton37814
>76 Whisper1: The cat story made me smile. I got a little scratch on the face this morning. It's my own fault. I was trying to get the cat who was trying to awaken me to lay beside me. I picked him up--too close to my face. He drew blood even though he wasn't really digging in. It was just an extended claw that grazed my cheek. I wish he'd let me sleep in when I get a chance to do so!
80klobrien2
>77 Whisper1: Wow! My Friend Earth looks like another hit to me! I've already got it requested at my library. Thanks!
I hope you are doing well, Linda! I wish you all the best for this new week (and beyond)!
Karen O
I hope you are doing well, Linda! I wish you all the best for this new week (and beyond)!
Karen O
81fuzzi
>50 Whisper1: I have loved the Madeline books since I read them as a child. Glad you've started on that series.
82fuzzi
>54 Whisper1: aw. Love it.
84bell7
Linda, so glad to see the fantastic illustrated books you've been reading. I've only read Patricia MacLachlan's Sarah series, and I really should try some of her other books. We were reading The Lioness of Boston around the same time - I just finished it today - though it looks like you liked it a tad more than I did. I want to read a nonfiction biography of Isabella Stewart Gardner now!
85BLBera
>77 Whisper1: Hi Linda. That is a stunning book. I hope you are well.
86Whisper1
Hello to all.
I'm home from the hospital. I wanted to go to the local Redicare facility, but granddaughter Kayla insisted we go to the hospital. In the ER I was diagnosed with pneumonia. I received very good care. After three days and two nights, I am glad to be home. I'm tired, weary, but glad to be with my books, my granddaughter, Stinky (who really isn't smelly,) and Meow the cat. Life is good -- Life is VERY good!
As I age, I am thankful for small things. When Kayla went to the pharmacy, they noted their line for medicare transactions wasn't working. The pharmacist, who is always kind and talkative, gave her the prescriptions, and noted he would process the cost when the system was up and running. He didn't have to do that, but he wanted to be sure I had what was needed.
While I gave away many books, I also processed an order for Thriftbooks.com. They had a lot of the books I added from the threads. My aim is to give away more, if not as many, as I bring in.
The snow is still piled in the yard and on the deck, but the roads are clear. I'll avoid the news today as so much is dedicated to a man who always seeks attention, who thrives by creating situations wherein he can blame others. I usually avoid politics on my thread, but I am so damn tired of all the drama created by this narcisstic idiot. I apologize if I offend anyone who likes him, but truly enough is enough. Will this country actually place a man for president who is now a confirmed rapist?
I'm home from the hospital. I wanted to go to the local Redicare facility, but granddaughter Kayla insisted we go to the hospital. In the ER I was diagnosed with pneumonia. I received very good care. After three days and two nights, I am glad to be home. I'm tired, weary, but glad to be with my books, my granddaughter, Stinky (who really isn't smelly,) and Meow the cat. Life is good -- Life is VERY good!
As I age, I am thankful for small things. When Kayla went to the pharmacy, they noted their line for medicare transactions wasn't working. The pharmacist, who is always kind and talkative, gave her the prescriptions, and noted he would process the cost when the system was up and running. He didn't have to do that, but he wanted to be sure I had what was needed.
While I gave away many books, I also processed an order for Thriftbooks.com. They had a lot of the books I added from the threads. My aim is to give away more, if not as many, as I bring in.
The snow is still piled in the yard and on the deck, but the roads are clear. I'll avoid the news today as so much is dedicated to a man who always seeks attention, who thrives by creating situations wherein he can blame others. I usually avoid politics on my thread, but I am so damn tired of all the drama created by this narcisstic idiot. I apologize if I offend anyone who likes him, but truly enough is enough. Will this country actually place a man for president who is now a confirmed rapist?
87SirThomas
Hi Linda, I'm glad you're home again.
All the best to you and your family (including Stinky and Meow of course).
We have no snow but rain and I hope politics will be more talking to each other and less screaming against each other...
All the best to you and your family (including Stinky and Meow of course).
We have no snow but rain and I hope politics will be more talking to each other and less screaming against each other...
88fuzzi
>86 Whisper1: I'm so glad you are home and on the mend.
I like threads where we don't stray into politics. It was one reason I had to give up the TIOLI challenge, too many people couldn't stop talking about politics.
I'm tired of the drama that is drummed up by news organizations, so I avoid the so-called news, too.
Just look outside at the beauty around us.
The daffodils are blooming, as is my Camellia bush...and my snap peas are up!
And I'm getting three or four eggs daily from my chickens. :)
I like threads where we don't stray into politics. It was one reason I had to give up the TIOLI challenge, too many people couldn't stop talking about politics.
I'm tired of the drama that is drummed up by news organizations, so I avoid the so-called news, too.
Just look outside at the beauty around us.
The daffodils are blooming, as is my Camellia bush...and my snap peas are up!
And I'm getting three or four eggs daily from my chickens. :)
89Whisper1
BOOK #20 of February 2024
Giraffes Can't Dance by Giles Andreae with ilustrations of Guy Parker-Rees
A funny rhyming book about Gerald the tall giraffe with a long a slim neck and very crooked legs that render him uncoordianted.
All the animals in the jungle are having a wonderful time laughing and dancing -- all except Gerald who cannot dance. He is exceedingly sad by their sneering and mocking at him. Called weird, clumsy and a fool, Gerald watches the conga line and rooted to the spot he knows he is a useless fool who is the only animal who cannot dance.
Feeling forlorn, Gerald slinks off the dance floor. He happens upon a cricket who was watching Gerald and told him that maybe he needed a different song to dance to and that perhaps the lovely moon was playing just for him and that everything makes music fif you really believe it can.
Picking up his violin, the cricked smiled and began to play. Alas, Gerald's hooves began to move and made circles; then, his tail began to sway and swish round and round. Now, he got the attention of the previous group who made such nasty fun at him and they watched.
In a rhyming verse they noted it was a miracle and a dream and now Gerlad was the best dancer they ever seen! Gerladl knew dancing was possible if you found the right music.
Cute and insightful, this is a beautiful story for young children who are suffering through self doubt issues.
Giraffes Can't Dance by Giles Andreae with ilustrations of Guy Parker-Rees
A funny rhyming book about Gerald the tall giraffe with a long a slim neck and very crooked legs that render him uncoordianted.
All the animals in the jungle are having a wonderful time laughing and dancing -- all except Gerald who cannot dance. He is exceedingly sad by their sneering and mocking at him. Called weird, clumsy and a fool, Gerald watches the conga line and rooted to the spot he knows he is a useless fool who is the only animal who cannot dance.
Feeling forlorn, Gerald slinks off the dance floor. He happens upon a cricket who was watching Gerald and told him that maybe he needed a different song to dance to and that perhaps the lovely moon was playing just for him and that everything makes music fif you really believe it can.
Picking up his violin, the cricked smiled and began to play. Alas, Gerald's hooves began to move and made circles; then, his tail began to sway and swish round and round. Now, he got the attention of the previous group who made such nasty fun at him and they watched.
In a rhyming verse they noted it was a miracle and a dream and now Gerlad was the best dancer they ever seen! Gerladl knew dancing was possible if you found the right music.
Cute and insightful, this is a beautiful story for young children who are suffering through self doubt issues.
90mdoris
Hi Linda, Very glad that you are home. I am so sorry that you have had time in the hospital with pneumonia. Sure hope you are feeling better.
91quondame
I'm sorry to hear about the pneumonia! I do hope you will be doing better for a good amount of time now that you are back home.
92magicians_nephew
Glad you're home and well and getting the care you need, Dear Linda.
93Whisper1
Thanks Mary, Sue and Jim!!!
I'm just plain tired. I'll head downstairs for something to eat and continue reading.
Sending good wishes to all.
I'm just plain tired. I'll head downstairs for something to eat and continue reading.
Sending good wishes to all.
94Whisper1
BOOKS PURCHASED FEBRUARY 2024
1) My Father's Words by Patricia MacLachlan
2) Little Red Riding Hood A Fairy Tale Adventure by Francesca Rossi
3) A Medieval Feast Written and Illustrated by Aliki
4) Before You Came by Patricia MacLachlan
5) Cat Talk by Patricia MacLachlan and Emily MacLachlan Charest illustrated by Barry Moser
6) Cassie Binegar by Patricia MacLachlan
7) I Didn't Do It by Patricia MacLachlan
8) Through Grandpa's Eyes by Patricia MacLachlan
9) The Happy Hocky Family by Lane Smith
10) Cat Talk by Patricia MacLachlan
11) The Violin of Auschwitz by Maria Angels Anglada
12) Beauty and the Beast: A Fairy Tale Adventure by Francesca Rossi
13) My Life Begins by Patricia MacLachlan
BOOKS GIVEN AWAY FEBRUARY 2024
1) Reading With Patrick by Michelle Kuo
2) Waters by Edith Newlin Chase
3) Madeline's Rescue by Ludwig Bemelmans
4) My Mom by Anthony Browne
5) Seeds of Freedom by Hester Bass
6) I Wonder If I'll See A Whale by Frances Ward Weller
7) Stuck by Oliver Jeffers
8) Giraffes Can't Dance by Giles Andrede
9) Stuck by Oliver Jeffers
10) A Picture Book of Harriet Tubman by David A. Adler
11. Ketzel The Cat Who Composed by Leslea Newman illustrations by Amy June Bates
12. Feathertop by Robert D. San Souci illustrations by Daniel San Souci
13. A Blue So Blue by Jean Francois Dumont
1) My Father's Words by Patricia MacLachlan
2) Little Red Riding Hood A Fairy Tale Adventure by Francesca Rossi
3) A Medieval Feast Written and Illustrated by Aliki
4) Before You Came by Patricia MacLachlan
5) Cat Talk by Patricia MacLachlan and Emily MacLachlan Charest illustrated by Barry Moser
6) Cassie Binegar by Patricia MacLachlan
7) I Didn't Do It by Patricia MacLachlan
8) Through Grandpa's Eyes by Patricia MacLachlan
9) The Happy Hocky Family by Lane Smith
10) Cat Talk by Patricia MacLachlan
11) The Violin of Auschwitz by Maria Angels Anglada
12) Beauty and the Beast: A Fairy Tale Adventure by Francesca Rossi
13) My Life Begins by Patricia MacLachlan
BOOKS GIVEN AWAY FEBRUARY 2024
1) Reading With Patrick by Michelle Kuo
2) Waters by Edith Newlin Chase
3) Madeline's Rescue by Ludwig Bemelmans
4) My Mom by Anthony Browne
5) Seeds of Freedom by Hester Bass
6) I Wonder If I'll See A Whale by Frances Ward Weller
7) Stuck by Oliver Jeffers
8) Giraffes Can't Dance by Giles Andrede
9) Stuck by Oliver Jeffers
10) A Picture Book of Harriet Tubman by David A. Adler
11. Ketzel The Cat Who Composed by Leslea Newman illustrations by Amy June Bates
12. Feathertop by Robert D. San Souci illustrations by Daniel San Souci
13. A Blue So Blue by Jean Francois Dumont
95Whisper1
BOOK NUMBER 21 OF FEBRUARY 2024
The Tale of Tsar Saltan by Alexander Puhkin illustrated by Gennnady Spirin
While the illustrations are lovely, as all of Gennady Spirin's works are, the story line is very hapzardly poor, both in structure and plot.
The plot contains fairytale like happenings, yet it seemed all over the place, understandable. I don't even know how to write the review.
Three sisters expressed their wishes. One wanted to become the Tsar's wife so there could be a magnificent feast
Sister #2 would spin the best linen for everyone
Sister #3 wanted to become the tsarina and have a strong and brave son.
Tsar Saltan hears the wishes and was captivated by the wish of Sister #3. He wanted to marry her, but not take her away from her other sisters. So, one would be the cook, the other a weaver at his court. This terribly annoyed the other two sisters. The wedding took place and the youngest sister knew she was pregnant and her wish would be fulfilled.
The Tsar went away for a long time and left the sisters together with the Tsar's cousin. This trio made plans to destroy the Tsarina. They mad an announcement that the baby was born and it was a monster. The Tsar took the news well and said he would judge for himself on his return.
This message was intercepted and another in its place said "Drown the tsarina and her child deep in the sea." Following the orders, both the baby and the Tsarina were placed in a wooded keg and taken out to sea.
The barrel opened, the baby now a boy saw a swan attached by a hawk. The swan rewarded him for saving her and promised all his wishes would come true.
The boy prince became a knat and stung one of the sisters. Hereafter, the plot unravels. The knat becomes a fly. The fly becomes a wasp.
In the end, the son is grow, becomes a prince. He forgave the two sisters and his cousin but they could never be in the presence of the swan
They all lived happily ever after.
Yikes, I don't even know if what I wrote captured the essence of this multifaceted story.
It is not a story that is worthy of the beautiful artistry of Gennady Spirin.
No Stars for this tale.
The Tale of Tsar Saltan by Alexander Puhkin illustrated by Gennnady Spirin
While the illustrations are lovely, as all of Gennady Spirin's works are, the story line is very hapzardly poor, both in structure and plot.
The plot contains fairytale like happenings, yet it seemed all over the place, understandable. I don't even know how to write the review.
Three sisters expressed their wishes. One wanted to become the Tsar's wife so there could be a magnificent feast
Sister #2 would spin the best linen for everyone
Sister #3 wanted to become the tsarina and have a strong and brave son.
Tsar Saltan hears the wishes and was captivated by the wish of Sister #3. He wanted to marry her, but not take her away from her other sisters. So, one would be the cook, the other a weaver at his court. This terribly annoyed the other two sisters. The wedding took place and the youngest sister knew she was pregnant and her wish would be fulfilled.
The Tsar went away for a long time and left the sisters together with the Tsar's cousin. This trio made plans to destroy the Tsarina. They mad an announcement that the baby was born and it was a monster. The Tsar took the news well and said he would judge for himself on his return.
This message was intercepted and another in its place said "Drown the tsarina and her child deep in the sea." Following the orders, both the baby and the Tsarina were placed in a wooded keg and taken out to sea.
The barrel opened, the baby now a boy saw a swan attached by a hawk. The swan rewarded him for saving her and promised all his wishes would come true.
The boy prince became a knat and stung one of the sisters. Hereafter, the plot unravels. The knat becomes a fly. The fly becomes a wasp.
In the end, the son is grow, becomes a prince. He forgave the two sisters and his cousin but they could never be in the presence of the swan
They all lived happily ever after.
Yikes, I don't even know if what I wrote captured the essence of this multifaceted story.
It is not a story that is worthy of the beautiful artistry of Gennady Spirin.
No Stars for this tale.
96Whisper1
BOOK #22 MONTH OF FEBRUARY 2024
A Picture Book of Harriet Tubman by David A. Adler with illustrations by Samuel Byrd
What an incredible woman!!! Strong, resilient, other directed, and brazen are but a few words to describe the "Moses of the Underground Railway." Harriet Tubman was born, in a shack with a dirt floor, no windows or furniture, she was a lave on a large plantation in Maryland. The sixth of eleven children, she and her family were owned. She vowed no one should own another and spent her life making this belief come true for herself, for others.
Strong willed and wild, beaten often, but never quiting, she fought for what she believed was right. Whipped, she continued to fight for the right to be free. Harriett was born during the time of abolitionists and was fortunate to be assisted by this group when she ran away. When a young girl, she was hit in the head with a strong metal weight. It left her with wound on her forehead that would never heal and forever gave her headaches. She persisted even though this terrible act almost killed her.
Married to John Tubman who was a free man. She dreamed of running away. He would not leave with her, and promised to tell the master of her plans. She left and found the assistance of the Underground Railway. She entered Pennsylvania, a state that banned slavery. Never a selfish woman, she continued to help other slaves gain freedom. Working until she earned enough money to help her mission become a reality. She made approximately 19 trips from the south to the north. It is estimated that she assisted 300 slaves in their dream to be free.
Called a conductor of the Underground Railway, with a bounty on her head, she became more committed to helping others. Tough and resiliant she was a nurse during the Civil War and continued to help the poor and sick after slavery ended.
A Picture Book of Harriet Tubman by David A. Adler with illustrations by Samuel Byrd
What an incredible woman!!! Strong, resilient, other directed, and brazen are but a few words to describe the "Moses of the Underground Railway." Harriet Tubman was born, in a shack with a dirt floor, no windows or furniture, she was a lave on a large plantation in Maryland. The sixth of eleven children, she and her family were owned. She vowed no one should own another and spent her life making this belief come true for herself, for others.
Strong willed and wild, beaten often, but never quiting, she fought for what she believed was right. Whipped, she continued to fight for the right to be free. Harriett was born during the time of abolitionists and was fortunate to be assisted by this group when she ran away. When a young girl, she was hit in the head with a strong metal weight. It left her with wound on her forehead that would never heal and forever gave her headaches. She persisted even though this terrible act almost killed her.
Married to John Tubman who was a free man. She dreamed of running away. He would not leave with her, and promised to tell the master of her plans. She left and found the assistance of the Underground Railway. She entered Pennsylvania, a state that banned slavery. Never a selfish woman, she continued to help other slaves gain freedom. Working until she earned enough money to help her mission become a reality. She made approximately 19 trips from the south to the north. It is estimated that she assisted 300 slaves in their dream to be free.
Called a conductor of the Underground Railway, with a bounty on her head, she became more committed to helping others. Tough and resiliant she was a nurse during the Civil War and continued to help the poor and sick after slavery ended.
97atozgrl
>86 Whisper1: Hello Linda, I'm so sorry to hear that you've been sick and were in the hospital. I'm glad you're back home, and grateful you have such a kind pharmacist. Take care of yourself and get plenty of rest!
Unfortunately, it's the peak of political ad season, and I'm having to constantly mute the TV to avoid the bs. Politics seems to be worse than ever these days.
And as usual, you are reading a bunch of beautiful books.
Unfortunately, it's the peak of political ad season, and I'm having to constantly mute the TV to avoid the bs. Politics seems to be worse than ever these days.
And as usual, you are reading a bunch of beautiful books.
98quondame
>95 Whisper1: That does sound like a particularly hallucinogenic version of the 3 sisters story where two deceive the ruler about his wife - I like the Arabian Night's version in the Maxfield Parish illustrated edition I grew up with - and that's pretty absurd.
99m.belljackson
>50 Whisper1: Linda My 48 year old daughter and I can still recite lines from Madeline -
"In an old house in Paris that was covered with vines lived 12 little girls in two straight lines..."
^^^^^^
Good that we are not In Denial about the current political horrors, at home and in Europe...
I just read the headlines and still do not understand why Europe does not see Ukraine as Russia's Czechoslovakia.
"In an old house in Paris that was covered with vines lived 12 little girls in two straight lines..."
^^^^^^
Good that we are not In Denial about the current political horrors, at home and in Europe...
I just read the headlines and still do not understand why Europe does not see Ukraine as Russia's Czechoslovakia.
100Whisper1
I love that you and Atala can recite lines from Madeline books.
I agree with you regarding Europe's lack of seeing Ukraines as Russia's Czechoslovakia. Putink is indeed a very dangerous man. A few months ago the news was all about the fact he had cancer and was near death. Now, no news at all about his poor health.
I agree with you regarding Europe's lack of seeing Ukraines as Russia's Czechoslovakia. Putink is indeed a very dangerous man. A few months ago the news was all about the fact he had cancer and was near death. Now, no news at all about his poor health.
101Whisper1
>97 atozgrl: Irene, I usually do not post my political leanings. I think I need to stop watching the news for awhile. I saw my primary care doctor this morning. She doubled all medications prescribed by the hospital physcian. I'm glad to be home. I got good care while in the hospital. I'm a difficult stick and nearly all the nurses who took blood were able to get the needle in on the irst or second try.
>98 quondame: I very much like the Pre Raphaelite artists. I believe Maxwell Parish was categorized as a Pre Raphaelite artist. I very much like his art. My favorite of all is J.W. Waterhouse. I have four very large framed prints of his art on my living and dining room walls.
The Lady of Shalot is my favorite. I long to go to the Tate museum and see this painting. I'm told it takes up one whole wall.
>98 quondame: I very much like the Pre Raphaelite artists. I believe Maxwell Parish was categorized as a Pre Raphaelite artist. I very much like his art. My favorite of all is J.W. Waterhouse. I have four very large framed prints of his art on my living and dining room walls.
The Lady of Shalot is my favorite. I long to go to the Tate museum and see this painting. I'm told it takes up one whole wall.
102BLBera
Hi Linda - As usual, great picture books. We love Giraffes Can't Dance and just looking at the pictures makes me smile. Have a great weekend.
103laytonwoman3rd
Hi, Linda. I'm sorry about the hospitalization, but it sounds like you have an excellent PCP, and that is so important once you're back home. I think I gave my grand-nieces a copy of Giraffes Can't Dance a while back. Such a lovely book.
104Whisper1
>102 BLBera: HI Beth. Yes, Giraffes Can't Dance is a cute book with good illustrations.
>103 laytonwoman3rd: Hi Linda. I imagine your grand nieces liked this book. As with so many illustrated books, this one has a strong message about inclusion and also overcoming something that you think you cannot accomplilsh.
>103 laytonwoman3rd: Hi Linda. I imagine your grand nieces liked this book. As with so many illustrated books, this one has a strong message about inclusion and also overcoming something that you think you cannot accomplilsh.
105SandDune
>89 Whisper1: We had Giraffes can't dance whennJacob was little.
106Whisper1
BOOK #23 IN THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY 2024
Before She Was Harriet by Lesa Cline-Ransme with beautiful illustrations by James Ransome
An incredibly powerful, encouraging book regarding the many accomplishments of the woman known as Harriet Tubman. Set in a poetic style, the rhymical words help the text flow. The combination of Lesa and James Rasome is a winner! The book begins with Harriet as an old woman "tired and worn her legs stiff her back achy, " and it ends with the same text only the major difference are the additinal words "AND FREE!"
Page by beautiful page, the reader learns of her life and her many accomplishments. She was an incredible woman, and someone to look up to and admire.
Starting with the words "Before she was and old woman she was a suffragist a voice for women who had none. Before she was a suffragist, she was General Tubman as she ferried people to freedom. Before she was General Tubman, she was a Union Spy carrying secrets across battlle field.
Her additional accomplishments affirm her bravery, her courage and her commitment to helping many to freedom. She also was a nurse who helped those who were in need of healing and encouragement. She helped her family members and others flee their master and arrive safely to Canada. Before this, she was Moses and was a conductor on the Underground Railroad. She was a woman of dreams, of belief in God and had strong faith, and as the author notes, she had the courage of a lion!
The author adds that before she was Moses, she carried the name of Minty of Maryland who was beaten, punished for her courage that broke her back, but not her spirit!! Before the name of Minty of Maryland, as a young girl, she was called Araminta who looked to the nightly stars as she prepared to get ready for the day when she could escape.
As she was known for all the above, she then gained the name Harriet, and carrying this name with dreams and courage, she was FREE
This is a book I will keep on my shelves with those that are my favorites. This is the tale of a wonderful, strong- spirited woman who helped many on their journey to freedom from slavery!
Beautifully written and excellentantly illustrated, this book is like none other in outlining all the many accomplishments of one very strong, beautiful woman!
FIVE STARS
Before She Was Harriet by Lesa Cline-Ransme with beautiful illustrations by James Ransome
An incredibly powerful, encouraging book regarding the many accomplishments of the woman known as Harriet Tubman. Set in a poetic style, the rhymical words help the text flow. The combination of Lesa and James Rasome is a winner! The book begins with Harriet as an old woman "tired and worn her legs stiff her back achy, " and it ends with the same text only the major difference are the additinal words "AND FREE!"
Page by beautiful page, the reader learns of her life and her many accomplishments. She was an incredible woman, and someone to look up to and admire.
Starting with the words "Before she was and old woman she was a suffragist a voice for women who had none. Before she was a suffragist, she was General Tubman as she ferried people to freedom. Before she was General Tubman, she was a Union Spy carrying secrets across battlle field.
Her additional accomplishments affirm her bravery, her courage and her commitment to helping many to freedom. She also was a nurse who helped those who were in need of healing and encouragement. She helped her family members and others flee their master and arrive safely to Canada. Before this, she was Moses and was a conductor on the Underground Railroad. She was a woman of dreams, of belief in God and had strong faith, and as the author notes, she had the courage of a lion!
The author adds that before she was Moses, she carried the name of Minty of Maryland who was beaten, punished for her courage that broke her back, but not her spirit!! Before the name of Minty of Maryland, as a young girl, she was called Araminta who looked to the nightly stars as she prepared to get ready for the day when she could escape.
As she was known for all the above, she then gained the name Harriet, and carrying this name with dreams and courage, she was FREE
This is a book I will keep on my shelves with those that are my favorites. This is the tale of a wonderful, strong- spirited woman who helped many on their journey to freedom from slavery!
Beautifully written and excellentantly illustrated, this book is like none other in outlining all the many accomplishments of one very strong, beautiful woman!
FIVE STARS
107klobrien2
>106 Whisper1: I immediately requested Before She Was Harriet after reading your review. Harriet Tubman was my childhood hero, and I’m so looking forward to this book.
Thanks!
Karen O
Thanks!
Karen O
108Whisper1
>107 klobrien2: Karen, Harriet Tubman was an incredible woman. I learned a lot from this book. I didn't know that when she was a slave, the master hit her in the head with a heavy medal object. This caused a whelt that was quite prominent, and nasty headaches all her life. Still, she persisted to find a way to flee.
Her husband at the time she was a slave, was a free man. He told her he would report her if she tried to flee. Still, she persisted in a way to flee.
Leading people to freedom by walking through swamps, dangerous territory, still she persisted in finding a way to help others flee slavery.
With no formal education, she spoke and gave clear presentations in her words to others to help fight the right to vote.
I can understand why sshe was your hero.
After you read the book, I'll be interested in learning your thoughts.
It's always good to see your messages here on my thread...Thank You!
Her husband at the time she was a slave, was a free man. He told her he would report her if she tried to flee. Still, she persisted in a way to flee.
Leading people to freedom by walking through swamps, dangerous territory, still she persisted in finding a way to help others flee slavery.
With no formal education, she spoke and gave clear presentations in her words to others to help fight the right to vote.
I can understand why sshe was your hero.
After you read the book, I'll be interested in learning your thoughts.
It's always good to see your messages here on my thread...Thank You!
109Owltherian
Hi Linda! How are you?
110jnwelch
Happy Newish Thread , Linda!
Those are lovely reviews, and thank you as always for your generous posting of the illustrations.
I’m a Jon J Muth fan and as your resident Zen guy have enjoyed his other Stillwater books. I’ll be sure to grab a copy of this one.
Like you, I’m a big fan of Patricia Maclachlan, may she rest in peace. The one you reviewed is new to me and sounds mighty good. I’m off to find it.
I love that photo of you and Will. You’re right, of course. We need to treasure our time with loved ones.
Those are lovely reviews, and thank you as always for your generous posting of the illustrations.
I’m a Jon J Muth fan and as your resident Zen guy have enjoyed his other Stillwater books. I’ll be sure to grab a copy of this one.
Like you, I’m a big fan of Patricia Maclachlan, may she rest in peace. The one you reviewed is new to me and sounds mighty good. I’m off to find it.
I love that photo of you and Will. You’re right, of course. We need to treasure our time with loved ones.
111Whisper1
>109 Owltherian: Hi Owl. Thanks for stopping by, and many thanks for asking how I am. I am recovering from the bout of pneumonia. I'm sleeping a lot, and I feel my 71 years of age.
>110 jnwelch: Hi Joe. I hope you are well. I love the images you post of your grandchildren. They are adorable! I recently purchased many books written by Patricia MacLachlan. She tugs at the heartstrings. It will be five years in April since Will passed. The pain of losing him isn't constant, nor is it as stabbing, but I miss him very much. Our granddaugther turned 21 last week. We all wished he was here to help celebrate.
>110 jnwelch: Hi Joe. I hope you are well. I love the images you post of your grandchildren. They are adorable! I recently purchased many books written by Patricia MacLachlan. She tugs at the heartstrings. It will be five years in April since Will passed. The pain of losing him isn't constant, nor is it as stabbing, but I miss him very much. Our granddaugther turned 21 last week. We all wished he was here to help celebrate.
112Owltherian
>111 Whisper1: Oh nurrr, pneumonia is bad isnt it-
113Whisper1
BOOK #24 READ IN FEBRUARY 2024
My Father's Words by Patricia MacLachlan
The book jacket reviewing this beautiful tale notes that MacLahclan writes with "spare & poignant prose," and that is surely true. Never maudliln, always heartfelt, this story looks at familial grief and plodding through day by day after losing a husband and father.
Finn and Fiona O'Brien loved their father deeply. They remember him through his pithy phrases. He was a therapist and his language seemed to deeply address both happy and sad life occurences. When their father is tragically killed in a car accident after he swerved to miss hitting a dog and little boy, they grapple with how to move forward.
Their loving mother is supportive, and is also grieving deeply. Together, the three of them, and others whose lives he impacted remember the love he so freely gave to all. He loved playing basketball with his family and it became a tradition of fun. His favorite song was Dona Nobis Pacem, "Grant Us Peace." and the family remembers him by listening to this beautiful music.
Woven in the tale is one of Declan O'Brien's clients who calls once a week to check in with the family. He adds a clear sense of how special this wonderful man was who helped so many through love, patience and kindness.
When Luke recommends that Finn and Fiona volunteer at a local animal shelter, they soon find meaning in helping dogs without a home. In particular, Finn, whose grief is so very raw, finds a dog whose master died. Slowly, Finn brings this dog away from the wall where he was stationed away from interaction. Fiona also finds a soul mate with a dog they bring home.
Stunningly beautiful, the author never fails to touch the heart of many readers.
My Father's Words by Patricia MacLachlan
The book jacket reviewing this beautiful tale notes that MacLahclan writes with "spare & poignant prose," and that is surely true. Never maudliln, always heartfelt, this story looks at familial grief and plodding through day by day after losing a husband and father.
Finn and Fiona O'Brien loved their father deeply. They remember him through his pithy phrases. He was a therapist and his language seemed to deeply address both happy and sad life occurences. When their father is tragically killed in a car accident after he swerved to miss hitting a dog and little boy, they grapple with how to move forward.
Their loving mother is supportive, and is also grieving deeply. Together, the three of them, and others whose lives he impacted remember the love he so freely gave to all. He loved playing basketball with his family and it became a tradition of fun. His favorite song was Dona Nobis Pacem, "Grant Us Peace." and the family remembers him by listening to this beautiful music.
Woven in the tale is one of Declan O'Brien's clients who calls once a week to check in with the family. He adds a clear sense of how special this wonderful man was who helped so many through love, patience and kindness.
When Luke recommends that Finn and Fiona volunteer at a local animal shelter, they soon find meaning in helping dogs without a home. In particular, Finn, whose grief is so very raw, finds a dog whose master died. Slowly, Finn brings this dog away from the wall where he was stationed away from interaction. Fiona also finds a soul mate with a dog they bring home.
Stunningly beautiful, the author never fails to touch the heart of many readers.
114Whisper1
BOOK #25 READ FEBRUARY 2024
Through Grandpa's Eyes by Patricia MacLachlan with artistry of Deborah Kogan Ray
John loves to spend time with his grandparents. This is a special story of a little boy who is attached to his blind grandfather and learns to "see" the way in which his grandfather does. Through quiet listening, his grandfather shows John how to feel the time of day, how to name the specific flowers by smell, and how to see through the way in which the wind blows. There are many ways in which his grandfather influences him with a deep shared love.
I particularly like the way in which this author paints a story of family love, of time spent together reading, feeling the sun, the wind, and knowing despite challenges, life can be very good indeed.
Another wonderful book by this author who never fails to touch the heart through her remarkable ability to paint images of life lived in love and meaning.
Through Grandpa's Eyes by Patricia MacLachlan with artistry of Deborah Kogan Ray
John loves to spend time with his grandparents. This is a special story of a little boy who is attached to his blind grandfather and learns to "see" the way in which his grandfather does. Through quiet listening, his grandfather shows John how to feel the time of day, how to name the specific flowers by smell, and how to see through the way in which the wind blows. There are many ways in which his grandfather influences him with a deep shared love.
I particularly like the way in which this author paints a story of family love, of time spent together reading, feeling the sun, the wind, and knowing despite challenges, life can be very good indeed.
Another wonderful book by this author who never fails to touch the heart through her remarkable ability to paint images of life lived in love and meaning.
115Berly
Hi dear Linda! I am so sorry you have pneumonia. Dang. But I am so, so glad you are home from the hospital and I hope you feel better quickly. As usual, love all your books and I was tickled by Giraffes Can't Dance and moved by the last one here, Through Grandpa's Eyes. Please take it easy. Big hugs my friend.
116Whisper1
BOOK #26 READ FEBRUARY 2024
Little Red Riding Hood A Fairy Tale Adventure text adapted by Glada Francia with cute, witty art work by Francesca Rossi
From a fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm, this focuses primarily on the fact that Little Red Riding Hood did not adhere her mother's warning and strict rule about sticking to the path, never straying, and going straight to her grandmother's house deep in the woods.
The woods are portrayed as dangerous with large ravines, crooked bridges that can break at any pressure, flowers whose petals can close and snap at fingers, and of course dangerous characters as the Big Bad Wolf.
Most likely one of the most well-known of Grimm's tales, Red Riding Hood talks to the stranger -- the wolf in sheep's clothing. He runs ahead to grandmother's house dressed as Red Riding Hood. He swallows grandmother and waits for his target of the little girl and then swallows her as well.
In the end the hunter comes to the rescue. Miraculously, through the actions of the hunter, Red Riding Hood and her Grandmother are taken from the stomach of the wolf and the hunter kills the wolf.
In college, I took a course regarding the works of the Brother's Grimm. Most of the tales are dark, with a moralistic bent and bad actions of evil people who seek to harm for their own benefit. Many have happy endings where the evil woman or man lose and the heroine leads a happy life. Yet, some tales are not whimsical, and indeed do not have happy outcomes.
The German child psychologist Bruno Bettelheim wrote a book about the Grimm Brothers and how children in need of psychological help can benefit from learning fairy tales.
The following was taken from the book description found in Amazon book site.
"Winner of the National Book Award and National Book Critics Circle Award"
"A charming book about enchantment, a profound book about fairy tales."—John Updike, The New York Times Book Review
Bruno Bettelheim was one of the great child psychologists of the twentieth century and perhaps none of his books has been more influential than this revelatory study of fairy tales and their universal importance in understanding childhood development.
Analyzing a wide range of traditional stories, from the tales of Sindbad to “The Three Little Pigs,” “Hansel and Gretel,” and “The Sleeping Beauty,” Bettelheim shows how the fantastical, sometimes cruel, but always deeply significant narrative strands of the classic fairy tales can aid in our greatest human task, that of finding meaning for one’s life.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Taken from Wikipedia
The Uses of Enchantment - Wikipedia
"Bettelheim presents a case that fairy tales help children solve certain existential problems such as separation anxiety, oedipal conflict, and sibling rivalries. The extreme violence and ugly emotions of many fairy tales serve to deflect what may well be going on in the child's mind anyway."
Little Red Riding Hood A Fairy Tale Adventure text adapted by Glada Francia with cute, witty art work by Francesca Rossi
From a fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm, this focuses primarily on the fact that Little Red Riding Hood did not adhere her mother's warning and strict rule about sticking to the path, never straying, and going straight to her grandmother's house deep in the woods.
The woods are portrayed as dangerous with large ravines, crooked bridges that can break at any pressure, flowers whose petals can close and snap at fingers, and of course dangerous characters as the Big Bad Wolf.
Most likely one of the most well-known of Grimm's tales, Red Riding Hood talks to the stranger -- the wolf in sheep's clothing. He runs ahead to grandmother's house dressed as Red Riding Hood. He swallows grandmother and waits for his target of the little girl and then swallows her as well.
In the end the hunter comes to the rescue. Miraculously, through the actions of the hunter, Red Riding Hood and her Grandmother are taken from the stomach of the wolf and the hunter kills the wolf.
In college, I took a course regarding the works of the Brother's Grimm. Most of the tales are dark, with a moralistic bent and bad actions of evil people who seek to harm for their own benefit. Many have happy endings where the evil woman or man lose and the heroine leads a happy life. Yet, some tales are not whimsical, and indeed do not have happy outcomes.
The German child psychologist Bruno Bettelheim wrote a book about the Grimm Brothers and how children in need of psychological help can benefit from learning fairy tales.
The following was taken from the book description found in Amazon book site.
"Winner of the National Book Award and National Book Critics Circle Award"
"A charming book about enchantment, a profound book about fairy tales."—John Updike, The New York Times Book Review
Bruno Bettelheim was one of the great child psychologists of the twentieth century and perhaps none of his books has been more influential than this revelatory study of fairy tales and their universal importance in understanding childhood development.
Analyzing a wide range of traditional stories, from the tales of Sindbad to “The Three Little Pigs,” “Hansel and Gretel,” and “The Sleeping Beauty,” Bettelheim shows how the fantastical, sometimes cruel, but always deeply significant narrative strands of the classic fairy tales can aid in our greatest human task, that of finding meaning for one’s life.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Taken from Wikipedia
The Uses of Enchantment - Wikipedia
"Bettelheim presents a case that fairy tales help children solve certain existential problems such as separation anxiety, oedipal conflict, and sibling rivalries. The extreme violence and ugly emotions of many fairy tales serve to deflect what may well be going on in the child's mind anyway."
117Whisper1
>115 Berly: Kim, as always, your messages spread love and support! Thank you. I am honored to be counted as your friend. Thank You!
118vancouverdeb
I'll bet you miss Will very much, Linda. I'm sorry you have pneumonia and I hope you are feeling much better soon. My dad died of cancer when he was 65, and I still miss him, though it is much better as time passes. I know my mom misses him very much too. And that was 17 years ago. Giraffes Can't Dance is such a wonderful book, and I loved Little Red Riding Hood is a story I still love. I recently did a 1000 piece Little Red Riding Hood puzzle. And yes, those puzzle roll up things do work, because we used to use one. Now I have a puzzle board that tilts and is much easier on my neck and back. It's a bit big and awkward to move it around, but not bad.
119Whisper1
Deb, A puzzle board sounds interesting. Regarding grief, most recently our granddaughter turned 21, we all said we wished he was here to see this happy event. It's times like those that make his passing more reflective. Kayla remarked that "now is when she really misses him."
120Whisper1
BOOK #27 OF FEBRUARY 2024
Before You Came by Patricia MacLachlan & Emily MacLachlan Charst with incedible artistry of Caldecott Medal and Newbery Honor books, David Diaz
The writing is as beautiful as ever with the team of Patricia MacLachlan and her daughter Emily MacLachLan Charst
This book contains such stunning artistry that I read it three times and carefully examine all the minute detail in the breathtaking art. I understand why David Diaz was the recipient of so many stellar awards for illustrative abilities.
Page after stunning page, Patricia MacLachlan and her daughter Emily wove the story of a young pregnant mother who enjoys her pregnancy and loves the world around her. Her husband is kind, her grown cat brought the gift of three kittens, each a different color and beautifully rendered,
As the expectant mother tells the reader of her lovely life, the words convey gratitude and a sense of the miracle of pregnancy and delivery of a life.
The joy of motherhood is obvious as the young mother notes she still has all the lovely things that surround her, only now, they are
rendered more meaningful because they are shared with her baby.
I've read many beautifully illustrated books. This one is breathtaking and a notch above others.
I highly recommend you obtain a copy and keep it on your shelf where you can continue to soak in the beauty of the story and the accompanying are rendered iradescently with rich patterns of the joy and appreciate of nature. The book radiates joy and color and incredibly captures the wonderful feeling of carrying a life inside. The is a book of nature and the appreciation and beauty therein.
FIVE STARS
Before You Came by Patricia MacLachlan & Emily MacLachlan Charst with incedible artistry of Caldecott Medal and Newbery Honor books, David Diaz
The writing is as beautiful as ever with the team of Patricia MacLachlan and her daughter Emily MacLachLan Charst
This book contains such stunning artistry that I read it three times and carefully examine all the minute detail in the breathtaking art. I understand why David Diaz was the recipient of so many stellar awards for illustrative abilities.
Page after stunning page, Patricia MacLachlan and her daughter Emily wove the story of a young pregnant mother who enjoys her pregnancy and loves the world around her. Her husband is kind, her grown cat brought the gift of three kittens, each a different color and beautifully rendered,
As the expectant mother tells the reader of her lovely life, the words convey gratitude and a sense of the miracle of pregnancy and delivery of a life.
The joy of motherhood is obvious as the young mother notes she still has all the lovely things that surround her, only now, they are
rendered more meaningful because they are shared with her baby.
I've read many beautifully illustrated books. This one is breathtaking and a notch above others.
I highly recommend you obtain a copy and keep it on your shelf where you can continue to soak in the beauty of the story and the accompanying are rendered iradescently with rich patterns of the joy and appreciate of nature. The book radiates joy and color and incredibly captures the wonderful feeling of carrying a life inside. The is a book of nature and the appreciation and beauty therein.
FIVE STARS
121alcottacre
>106 Whisper1: Like Karen, I immediately requested Before She Was Harriet from my local library. I hope to have it soon. Thank you for that recommendation, lovey.
I hope you are getting the rest you need!
I hope you are getting the rest you need!
122fuzzi
>116 Whisper1: interesting. I might look for that book.
I was an avid reader/rereader of all the traditional Grimm's fairy tales, but my own children never warmed up to them.
I hope you continue to feel better.
I was an avid reader/rereader of all the traditional Grimm's fairy tales, but my own children never warmed up to them.
I hope you continue to feel better.
123PaulCranswick
>122 fuzzi: I read Grimm's tales with my youngest daughter and was astonished as to how dark so many of them were.
I hope all is well with you dear Linda.
I hope all is well with you dear Linda.
124Whisper1
BOOK #28 OF FEBRUARY 2024
Snow White & Rose Red by Jakob and Wilhelm Grimm illustrated by Gennady Sppirin
This is a rather tame story considering that some of the Grimm Brother's stories were dark. In the forest (so many of the Grimm Brother's stories centered around a forest,) lived two beautiful kind sisters, their mother called one Snow White, the other Rose Red. Snow White was the calmer of the two, both were nice. There were rose bushes, red, and also white.
On a blustery cold day, when the door was opened, a huge grisly bear greeted them. While they were afraid, they invited the bear out of the cold. They proceded to take the snow off his fur and brush him while he warmed himself by the cottage fireplace. throuout the winter he came to the cottage and was always greeted warmly.
In the Spring, he no loner visited the girls. As the went into the forrest, the deer, birds and animals greeted them. They were safe, in fact once when the fell asleep, they were awoken be a shining white angel of a little girl who had protected them throughout the night as they were unaware of the steep cliff they were near.
Going into the woods for kindling, one day they came upon a short nasty-spirited grnome with a long beard and ugly demeanor, the gnome's beard was stuck in a trunk. They helped him only to be admonished by him. They noticed he carried a bag of gold. Once again they found the tangled gome in the water caught by a fish line. They helped him and were treated the same way as before.
This time they noted a sack of pearls.
The third time they found the gnome and saved him from a rather large eagle who was about to harm him. Again, they were rudely treated. they then found the bear in the woods who frightened the nasty gnome. He offered the tasty morsel girls as an option of leaving him alone. The bear killed the gnome.
Suddenly, the bear turned into a charming prince who was under the spell of the nasty gnome who stole his treasure. His death set the prince free.
Years later, he married Snow White and his brother married Rose Red. They took care of their mother in her elder years and lived happily. Every year the rose busses planted in front of their windows bore the nicest roses of red and white.
As with all books illustrated by Gennady Spirin, this one is no exception. His illustrations are always rendered beautifully and agument any story he chooses to illustrate.
I have a large selection of the books he illustrated and hope to collect all of them.
Snow White & Rose Red by Jakob and Wilhelm Grimm illustrated by Gennady Sppirin
This is a rather tame story considering that some of the Grimm Brother's stories were dark. In the forest (so many of the Grimm Brother's stories centered around a forest,) lived two beautiful kind sisters, their mother called one Snow White, the other Rose Red. Snow White was the calmer of the two, both were nice. There were rose bushes, red, and also white.
On a blustery cold day, when the door was opened, a huge grisly bear greeted them. While they were afraid, they invited the bear out of the cold. They proceded to take the snow off his fur and brush him while he warmed himself by the cottage fireplace. throuout the winter he came to the cottage and was always greeted warmly.
In the Spring, he no loner visited the girls. As the went into the forrest, the deer, birds and animals greeted them. They were safe, in fact once when the fell asleep, they were awoken be a shining white angel of a little girl who had protected them throughout the night as they were unaware of the steep cliff they were near.
Going into the woods for kindling, one day they came upon a short nasty-spirited grnome with a long beard and ugly demeanor, the gnome's beard was stuck in a trunk. They helped him only to be admonished by him. They noticed he carried a bag of gold. Once again they found the tangled gome in the water caught by a fish line. They helped him and were treated the same way as before.
This time they noted a sack of pearls.
The third time they found the gnome and saved him from a rather large eagle who was about to harm him. Again, they were rudely treated. they then found the bear in the woods who frightened the nasty gnome. He offered the tasty morsel girls as an option of leaving him alone. The bear killed the gnome.
Suddenly, the bear turned into a charming prince who was under the spell of the nasty gnome who stole his treasure. His death set the prince free.
Years later, he married Snow White and his brother married Rose Red. They took care of their mother in her elder years and lived happily. Every year the rose busses planted in front of their windows bore the nicest roses of red and white.
As with all books illustrated by Gennady Spirin, this one is no exception. His illustrations are always rendered beautifully and agument any story he chooses to illustrate.
I have a large selection of the books he illustrated and hope to collect all of them.
125Whisper1
BOOK #29 FEBRUARY 2024
My Life Begins by Patricia MacLachlan
This is not as a nice tale of nine-year-old Jacob whose life is turned upside down when his parents bring home triplets from the hospital.
Rather than being jealous, as many children might be, he is enthralled with the three little girl identical babies. Prior to this, he begged his parents for a puppy. He knows what a litter of puppies looks like, but a liter of baby girls is quite different. He learns that they are not a litter, which is what he called them for his science school project, but as they grow they each have unique personalities. He previously called them "The Trips." Now, he knows they are individual children.
Each makes different sounds, each one relates to him differently, and while they all look alike, they are not puppies of a litter, they are independt little babies. When his parents bring them to class while he is giving his science presentation regarding their growth, one of the babies takes her first steps. The entire class is enthralled and claps, leaving Jacob with a huge smile, and an A for his efforts.
There isn't a sad life-changing event in this book as with some other of her works, rather, this is a fun story of a family working together to make this major shift be a happy part of their lives as together, with a loving assistant who adds additional love to the family.
If you are looking for a fast read of a story that is heart warming, then this is a good book.
My Life Begins by Patricia MacLachlan
This is not as a nice tale of nine-year-old Jacob whose life is turned upside down when his parents bring home triplets from the hospital.
Rather than being jealous, as many children might be, he is enthralled with the three little girl identical babies. Prior to this, he begged his parents for a puppy. He knows what a litter of puppies looks like, but a liter of baby girls is quite different. He learns that they are not a litter, which is what he called them for his science school project, but as they grow they each have unique personalities. He previously called them "The Trips." Now, he knows they are individual children.
Each makes different sounds, each one relates to him differently, and while they all look alike, they are not puppies of a litter, they are independt little babies. When his parents bring them to class while he is giving his science presentation regarding their growth, one of the babies takes her first steps. The entire class is enthralled and claps, leaving Jacob with a huge smile, and an A for his efforts.
There isn't a sad life-changing event in this book as with some other of her works, rather, this is a fun story of a family working together to make this major shift be a happy part of their lives as together, with a loving assistant who adds additional love to the family.
If you are looking for a fast read of a story that is heart warming, then this is a good book.
126alcottacre
The illustrations that you post are always so lovely, lovey. Thank you for sharing them with us.
Feel better soon!
Feel better soon!
127Whisper1
Stasia, I read that you also are not feeling well. Please know I am thinking about you and hoping you are better soon. I know how you love to read, and it seems this illness is getting in the way of that ability..DRAT!!!!
129Whisper1
BOOK #30 OF FEBRUARY 2024
Just Dance by Patricia MacLachlan
This is aother light read of a family working together to appreciate the joys and simplicities of life. I continue to read Patricia MacLachlan's works because she writes with such style and depth of feeling that after reading her books, I am left with a sense of calm and joy.
In this story, Sylvie Bloom's mother was an well-known, renowned opera singer who gave the fame and glory behind to live on a country farm with a husband and two children. She cannot understand why her mother left all the glory behind to now sing with chickens and cows and live a simple life.
This haunts Sylvie to the point of fear that one day her mother will regret all she gave up and will return to that life, leaving her family behind. There is nothing that would confirm her feelings. Instead, her mother is very content and loves the life she has with two childen, a wonderful community and the calmness of a sky filled with stars and a husband who takes her in his arms and dances with her.
When Sylvie is asked to accompany the local sherrif and ride in his vehicle with her to see the happenings of the communitiy, she uses her writing skills to produce poems about her life and about what she discovers in the rural roads and the small town existence.
When she becomes sick with Phemumonia, her mother could have sung on stage with her former opera-singing partner who happens to have a concert nearby, and instead she stays home with Sylvie while her father and brother attend the concert, she learns the meaning of love and that her mother would not change anything for the wondeful life she has.
Just Dance by Patricia MacLachlan
This is aother light read of a family working together to appreciate the joys and simplicities of life. I continue to read Patricia MacLachlan's works because she writes with such style and depth of feeling that after reading her books, I am left with a sense of calm and joy.
In this story, Sylvie Bloom's mother was an well-known, renowned opera singer who gave the fame and glory behind to live on a country farm with a husband and two children. She cannot understand why her mother left all the glory behind to now sing with chickens and cows and live a simple life.
This haunts Sylvie to the point of fear that one day her mother will regret all she gave up and will return to that life, leaving her family behind. There is nothing that would confirm her feelings. Instead, her mother is very content and loves the life she has with two childen, a wonderful community and the calmness of a sky filled with stars and a husband who takes her in his arms and dances with her.
When Sylvie is asked to accompany the local sherrif and ride in his vehicle with her to see the happenings of the communitiy, she uses her writing skills to produce poems about her life and about what she discovers in the rural roads and the small town existence.
When she becomes sick with Phemumonia, her mother could have sung on stage with her former opera-singing partner who happens to have a concert nearby, and instead she stays home with Sylvie while her father and brother attend the concert, she learns the meaning of love and that her mother would not change anything for the wondeful life she has.
130Whisper1
BOOK #31 OF February 2024
Three Names by Patricia MacLachlan illustrations of Alexander Pertzoff
This is another lovely story of family love and life on the prarie. Told of the life of the family Great Grandfather, it was a quieter, moe subdued life. The children looked forward to school as it presented interaction tat as so very needed when the houses are far apart from each other and the land is flat and seems never ending.
The story revolves around famly values, taking care of one another, particularly centered around the dog with three names, Lilly, Boos and Pal. Great-Grandfather called him Three Names. He rids on the big wagon with the children who are transported to school.
Because houses are so far apart, school is the main place of interaction. And unlike many children today who hate the summer to end, the children on the prarie cannot wait for it to behin.
Three names was a pet to all thea dults and children with whom he cam in contact with, except for a young boy named William. In the winter when the snow piled high on the big, flat prarie, the wind whipped the air and it was necessary to build a fire inside the school for warmth. Winter holidays meant parties for everyone. All children and their extended familes attended the festivites of lights in the windows which were welcoming becons for people to find the school. There was fiddle playing, food, punch, singing and the teacher graciously sacrificed his earnings and gave a book as a present to each student. Three Names was part of the party and he howled when he liked something.
Life on the prarie, may have been somewhat boring for the children, yet, there were instances of terror when the flat lands were ripe for tornadoes. When this occurred on a school day, there was a cellar where children could hide from the nastiness above. Three Names shook as he heard the howls and ugly sounds.
When school ended, it was with sadness, not clapping. But this too was a time for celebration. And each student wore starched shirts, or dresses and shiny shoes of the girls.
Yet another occasion for food, fiddle playing and a celebration as each graduate heard their name called. And, because Three Names attended school as well, he too was sad when another year of learning ended.
While I didn't live on a prarie, this book reminded me that there were occasions of school festivies, when everyone was dressed as well as our parents could afford. And, always, there was an air of excitement, especially during holidays where we shared and gave and received a presentt of the person who had the name to give or receive.
Halloween was a special event at my small school. The teacher gave us black and orange paper to cut out pumpkins and black cats. Our decorations adorned the school windows. There were no restrictions of watching for anyone who had an allergy that would exempt them from sharing cup cakes, candy and punch.
There was a Haloween parade and their were judges for customes. My mother always made a creative outfit and she was sure we would win. There was always tension when she didn't win the prize for us. My sisters and I hated that because it put a damper on the fun time.
We had a Christmas concert, and it wasn't called a "holiday" concert. My knees shook as I sang the three lines of solo during the concert. It wasn't a time of political correctness and I remember singing the words "Oh, Come, Oh, Come Emmanuel and ransom captive Israel who mourns in lowly excile until the King of God appears " Even James H_____. looked handsome with his white shirt and slicked hair. The dark lights in the audience hid my grandmother's face, but I knew she would be in the audience and would wait for me to walk to home together.
And, the firehall always had a special event when Santa would arrive to give us an orange and a small box of candy which had a heavy string affixed to the outside so we could carry it wighout dropping. There were no instances of fruit and vegetables instead of a box of candy that was made by the local Main Street candy store was a very special treat!
This book was a tribute to times gone by, when special times were set aside to celebrate an important happening. Life was hard, but good on the prarie. At least Patricia MacLachlan thought so. She should know because she was raised in the prarie, and while this book was a tribute to Three Names, it also was an accurate depiction of how many children felt during all seasons of the year.
Three Names by Patricia MacLachlan illustrations of Alexander Pertzoff
This is another lovely story of family love and life on the prarie. Told of the life of the family Great Grandfather, it was a quieter, moe subdued life. The children looked forward to school as it presented interaction tat as so very needed when the houses are far apart from each other and the land is flat and seems never ending.
The story revolves around famly values, taking care of one another, particularly centered around the dog with three names, Lilly, Boos and Pal. Great-Grandfather called him Three Names. He rids on the big wagon with the children who are transported to school.
Because houses are so far apart, school is the main place of interaction. And unlike many children today who hate the summer to end, the children on the prarie cannot wait for it to behin.
Three names was a pet to all thea dults and children with whom he cam in contact with, except for a young boy named William. In the winter when the snow piled high on the big, flat prarie, the wind whipped the air and it was necessary to build a fire inside the school for warmth. Winter holidays meant parties for everyone. All children and their extended familes attended the festivites of lights in the windows which were welcoming becons for people to find the school. There was fiddle playing, food, punch, singing and the teacher graciously sacrificed his earnings and gave a book as a present to each student. Three Names was part of the party and he howled when he liked something.
Life on the prarie, may have been somewhat boring for the children, yet, there were instances of terror when the flat lands were ripe for tornadoes. When this occurred on a school day, there was a cellar where children could hide from the nastiness above. Three Names shook as he heard the howls and ugly sounds.
When school ended, it was with sadness, not clapping. But this too was a time for celebration. And each student wore starched shirts, or dresses and shiny shoes of the girls.
Yet another occasion for food, fiddle playing and a celebration as each graduate heard their name called. And, because Three Names attended school as well, he too was sad when another year of learning ended.
While I didn't live on a prarie, this book reminded me that there were occasions of school festivies, when everyone was dressed as well as our parents could afford. And, always, there was an air of excitement, especially during holidays where we shared and gave and received a presentt of the person who had the name to give or receive.
Halloween was a special event at my small school. The teacher gave us black and orange paper to cut out pumpkins and black cats. Our decorations adorned the school windows. There were no restrictions of watching for anyone who had an allergy that would exempt them from sharing cup cakes, candy and punch.
There was a Haloween parade and their were judges for customes. My mother always made a creative outfit and she was sure we would win. There was always tension when she didn't win the prize for us. My sisters and I hated that because it put a damper on the fun time.
We had a Christmas concert, and it wasn't called a "holiday" concert. My knees shook as I sang the three lines of solo during the concert. It wasn't a time of political correctness and I remember singing the words "Oh, Come, Oh, Come Emmanuel and ransom captive Israel who mourns in lowly excile until the King of God appears " Even James H_____. looked handsome with his white shirt and slicked hair. The dark lights in the audience hid my grandmother's face, but I knew she would be in the audience and would wait for me to walk to home together.
And, the firehall always had a special event when Santa would arrive to give us an orange and a small box of candy which had a heavy string affixed to the outside so we could carry it wighout dropping. There were no instances of fruit and vegetables instead of a box of candy that was made by the local Main Street candy store was a very special treat!
This book was a tribute to times gone by, when special times were set aside to celebrate an important happening. Life was hard, but good on the prarie. At least Patricia MacLachlan thought so. She should know because she was raised in the prarie, and while this book was a tribute to Three Names, it also was an accurate depiction of how many children felt during all seasons of the year.
131Whisper1
BOOK #32 OF February 2024
Bittle by Patricia MacLachlan and Emily MacLachlan Illustrations of Dan Yaccarino
When the owners of a cat Nigel, and a dog Julia noticed that a small room was newly painted, small little boots were found in a bag, a big piece of furniture was in the newly painted room Nigel predicted it was for a baby. And sure enough, a baby soon arrived. The first reaction was "We don't need a baby." But, as they noticed the baby and her actions they couldn't help but want to be with her night and day.
A cute book co-written by Patricia MacLachlan and her daughter Emily. This is told from the imagined perspective of the two animals who noted she was a bitty little thing. Soon they called her Bittle. When she cried, they ran to her crib. Nigel wrapped himself around the baby and purred. She stopped crying.
Nigel hit the hanging ornaments on the mobile above her bed, and he sang a song to her when she needed company. Nigel Meowed, and Julia howled. Bittle smiled. Soon she threw all her toys out of the crib and the animals threw them back at her, except for one kept by Julia.
They both admitted helping Bittle was hard work, but fun as well. They both slept under the crib in order to quickly be with her when she cried or needed a playmate. When she crawled, they followed her. When she played with the toilet paper, Julla told her she
really liked the toilet as well.
The babies first words were Wolf, and Meow.
There's nothing in depth, but every book by this author is special. The way in which they paint the relationship with the baby and the animals is touching.
While not my favorite, it did bring a smile as I read it.
Bittle by Patricia MacLachlan and Emily MacLachlan Illustrations of Dan Yaccarino
When the owners of a cat Nigel, and a dog Julia noticed that a small room was newly painted, small little boots were found in a bag, a big piece of furniture was in the newly painted room Nigel predicted it was for a baby. And sure enough, a baby soon arrived. The first reaction was "We don't need a baby." But, as they noticed the baby and her actions they couldn't help but want to be with her night and day.
A cute book co-written by Patricia MacLachlan and her daughter Emily. This is told from the imagined perspective of the two animals who noted she was a bitty little thing. Soon they called her Bittle. When she cried, they ran to her crib. Nigel wrapped himself around the baby and purred. She stopped crying.
Nigel hit the hanging ornaments on the mobile above her bed, and he sang a song to her when she needed company. Nigel Meowed, and Julia howled. Bittle smiled. Soon she threw all her toys out of the crib and the animals threw them back at her, except for one kept by Julia.
They both admitted helping Bittle was hard work, but fun as well. They both slept under the crib in order to quickly be with her when she cried or needed a playmate. When she crawled, they followed her. When she played with the toilet paper, Julla told her she
really liked the toilet as well.
The babies first words were Wolf, and Meow.
There's nothing in depth, but every book by this author is special. The way in which they paint the relationship with the baby and the animals is touching.
While not my favorite, it did bring a smile as I read it.
132fuzzi
>124 Whisper1: I remember that one! I didn't have that beautifully illustrated version, though.
133foggidawn
>124 Whisper1: Snow-White and Rose-Red was one of my favorite fairy tales when I was growing up (along with The Dancing Princesses and Beauty and the Beast). I think I liked it because the girls were smart and got to do things (they always seemed smarter, or at least more sensible, than the evil gnome), and they basically rescued the bear prince from his curse.
134Whisper1
>Lor, I always save books illustrated by Gennady Spirin. He is an incredibly detailed artist. His illustrations are like pictures to hang on the wall.
>133 foggidawn: Hi! thanks for stopping by. Yes, you do remember this one. I agree, the girls are portrayed as intelligent. And, they did rescue the prince from his curse. He just happened to have a brother for Rose Red??
>133 foggidawn: Hi! thanks for stopping by. Yes, you do remember this one. I agree, the girls are portrayed as intelligent. And, they did rescue the prince from his curse. He just happened to have a brother for Rose Red??
135Whisper1
BOOK #33 OF FEBRUARY 2024
Zin!Zin!Zin! A Violin by Lloyd Moss with Caldecott Honor winning illustrations by Marjorie Priceman
This is a wonderfully illustrated book meant to teach how the various instruments come together to make a lovely sounding orchestra. Well worth the accolades!
Zin!Zin!Zin! A Violin by Lloyd Moss with Caldecott Honor winning illustrations by Marjorie Priceman
This is a wonderfully illustrated book meant to teach how the various instruments come together to make a lovely sounding orchestra. Well worth the accolades!
136fuzzi
>135 Whisper1: ow. (put in a hold at the public library)
BTW, I decided I needed some fresh air, so I went to the library and borrowed FIVE Patricia MacLachlan books. So far they're good, but not quite "I must buy this for my grands!" good. Nora's Chicks was a keeper.
BTW, I decided I needed some fresh air, so I went to the library and borrowed FIVE Patricia MacLachlan books. So far they're good, but not quite "I must buy this for my grands!" good. Nora's Chicks was a keeper.
137Donna828
Linda, you are bringing back memories of my teaching years. I read Sarah Plain and Tall to my 4th graders after lunch. It was a good way to transition into the afternoon and they looked forward to it each day. Patricia MacLachlan was such a prolific author.
I am sorry you had pneumonia and very glad that Kayla got you to the hospital. I hope you are feeling much better. Take it easy my friend.
I am sorry you had pneumonia and very glad that Kayla got you to the hospital. I hope you are feeling much better. Take it easy my friend.
138klobrien2
>135 Whisper1: I rushed to my library’s webste to request Zin, Zin, Zin. Thanks for the tip.
I hope you are feeling better! Take care of yourself, sweetie!
Karen O
I hope you are feeling better! Take care of yourself, sweetie!
Karen O
139Whisper1
Three days into March, and I'm reading, but not at the usual speed. I'm still feeling compromised from hosptial stay with Pneumonia. And, Kayla's trip to the hospital yesteday confirmed that she has the flu, partB.
Between resting, and then making trips to two pharmacy's because the computer system was/is hacked, I've had to spend a lot of time finding a pharmacy whose system worked and could accept computerized data from the pain management center. Finally, Walgreens was where I was directed. I was able to get my pain medication, but only 20 pills of 120 for migraine meds.
I bought Muscinex DM for Kayla and had to show my driver's license.
Kayla is prone to anxiety attacks, and this near constant coughing and hot/then cold body has caused a lot of anxiety for her.
These last days/weeks have been challenging.
Perhaps tomorrow I can finish two of the books I began.
Between resting, and then making trips to two pharmacy's because the computer system was/is hacked, I've had to spend a lot of time finding a pharmacy whose system worked and could accept computerized data from the pain management center. Finally, Walgreens was where I was directed. I was able to get my pain medication, but only 20 pills of 120 for migraine meds.
I bought Muscinex DM for Kayla and had to show my driver's license.
Kayla is prone to anxiety attacks, and this near constant coughing and hot/then cold body has caused a lot of anxiety for her.
These last days/weeks have been challenging.
Perhaps tomorrow I can finish two of the books I began.
140Whisper1
>136 fuzzi: Fuzzi, I think I liked the Patricia MacLachlan books so much because they've been a break from the illness and stress. Nora's Chicks is one of the books I haven't read. I'll be sure to get a copy of this one.
>137 Donna828: Hi Donna, Many thanks for your visit, and your kind words. I forgot that you were a teacher! I imagine you were wonderful at this!
>138 klobrien2: Zin, Zin, Zin was a fast read, the illustrations were certainly Caldecott winable. (Is "winable" a word?"
>137 Donna828: Hi Donna, Many thanks for your visit, and your kind words. I forgot that you were a teacher! I imagine you were wonderful at this!
>138 klobrien2: Zin, Zin, Zin was a fast read, the illustrations were certainly Caldecott winable. (Is "winable" a word?"
141Whisper1
I went through some of my books, and I'm going to read some books by Truman Capote. I read In Cold Blood Twice, but have never read Breakfast at Tiffany's. I'm heading to the library on Monday to get a copy of this, and also a few others that I never knew he wrote. Has anyone read One Christmas, Summer Crossing or Capote's Women: A True Strong of Love, Betrayal, and a Swan Son for an Era?
A few days ago, I watched TV and The Swans was featured on Hulu. It was good, and I'm glad the American Challenge is featurning Capote. I hope next week is a Capote week and I'll be able to read and rest.
A few days ago, I watched TV and The Swans was featured on Hulu. It was good, and I'm glad the American Challenge is featurning Capote. I hope next week is a Capote week and I'll be able to read and rest.
142fuzzi
>139 Whisper1: argh. Sorry things have been difficult for you. When my dad was prescribed an opiate (morphine?) for cancer pain Walgreen's was the only pharmacy that had it in stock! They are my go-to pharmacy when Humana's mail order services fail.
>140 Whisper1: I've been reading the Patricia MacLachlan books for a similar reason, as a mental break from difficulties at home. I've read 4 in the last couple days. I have Zin Zin Zin ready for pick up and several Kate Banks books requested at the public library. She just passed away and I realized I'd not read any of her books.
>140 Whisper1: I've been reading the Patricia MacLachlan books for a similar reason, as a mental break from difficulties at home. I've read 4 in the last couple days. I have Zin Zin Zin ready for pick up and several Kate Banks books requested at the public library. She just passed away and I realized I'd not read any of her books.
143m.belljackson
>139 Whisper1: Walgreens here in Wisconsin has free home delivery for RX - could save you some trips
and hope you can avoid the flu!
and hope you can avoid the flu!
144mdoris
>139 Whisper1: I am sorry Linda that you are having such difficult days. It takes a while to recover and gain strength back. My fall was a week ago and a broken collar bone but got the all clear on a CT head scan thank heavens. Now the mending part for the bone breakage and it is tiring.
145atozgrl
>139 Whisper1: Hi Linda, I'm sorry to hear that you are still struggling with the recovery from pneumonia, and really sorry to hear that Kayla is also ill. I'm glad you finally got your medicine, but sorry it was so difficult. Sending healing thoughts that you both recover quickly.
147klobrien2
>113 Whisper1: I read My Father’s Words today. I wanted to thank you right away for bringing this book to my attention! It was a beautiful read, very cathartic for me in my grieving. I rushed right out to the internet and secured my own personal copy—I’m sure I’ll be reading it again.
Karen O
P.s. I hope you and Kayla are feeling better, soonest!
Karen O
P.s. I hope you and Kayla are feeling better, soonest!
148Whisper1
>142 fuzzi: Hi Fuzzi, and thanks for stopping by. I hope to read all books written, or co-written by Patricia MacLachlan. Some don't carry the weight of the great books, but all are good reads. I don't have a favorite, but I really do like My Father's Words because it deals with the heavy subject of grief, and a way in which it was addressed in a way that made the pain less. I'm glad you are reading her books. I've not heard of Kate Banks, but now I'll see if I can get some of them from the library tomorrow.
>143 m.belljackson: Marianne, thanks for telling me about the home delivery of Walgreens. The pharmacy is way in the back of the store. This is a good way in which people buy items enroute to get their prescription. My friend/neighbor loves almonds. They were on sale. I bought three bags for her, then the pads for Stinky the Ferret, were buy one package of 100, get another for 1/2 price. This was a good buy because Kayla and I consistently are making a trip to get new pads for her cage. He is very good at going to the pads when he needs to pee...or_____! I ended up spending more money than I expected, but I can rationalize because the items were a good price on sale.
>144 mdoris: Mary, I've never broken any bones, but I can imagine breaking your collar bone is very painful. I send healing thoughts your way for a speedy recovery. And, I hope you can sit and relax. Healing is necessary and a great excuse to grab a book or two or.... and read while you rest.
>145 atozgrl: Irene, thanks for you good wishes. The phamacist told me that the major central billing company many/most pharmacies use was hacked. This is a nationwide problem. He said it really is crippling the ability to process medications. Since I'm there often, he gave me the needed antibiotic and said they would bill when the system was up and running.
>146 jessibud2: Thanks for your kind wishes dear friend! I appreciate your kind thoughts!
>147 klobrien2: Hi Karen. My Father's Words is a keeper. I'm so glad you found it cathartic in your grieving process. Reading this book, encouraged me to find a way to honor Will on a daily basis. We always took a week's vacation at the shore. Will enjoyed taking Kayla in the waves. A store on the boardwalk sold Christmas objects and Kayla knew her Opa loved birds. Every year we purchased an Old World ornament of a colorful bird. I had a small Christmas tree stored in the basement. I surprised her by placing all of the bird ornaments on the tree, then I placed lights on the tree, and it now stands on top of a cabinet in the living room. It doesn't make us sad, it makes us remember wonderful memories of someone we loved so very much.
Thanks for your kind words regarding our healing process. Kayla is coughing a lot, and isn't one to suffer gladly. She doesn't like to be sick and there are a lot of woe is me comments. Today I asked her about her biology class and she immediately went into a long speel about what she is learning. She even obtained a piece of paper and drew diagrams of cell replications. It makes me happy to hear that there is a great teacher who is inspiriing her to learn. Her father is an identical twin. She drew a diagram about the difference between identical and fraternal twins. She told me that her father and his brother wore different hats consistently so she could tell the difference when she was little. One day they switched hats and she thought she was talking to her father. It was a great memory and she was able to focus on something other than feeling miserable with the flu.
Thanks to all for visiting my thread. This makes me very happy, and like Kayla, I can find something that gets my mind off the healing process, in my case it is pneumonia recovery. I'm really feeling my 71 years of age. It does take longer to heal when you are older!
>143 m.belljackson: Marianne, thanks for telling me about the home delivery of Walgreens. The pharmacy is way in the back of the store. This is a good way in which people buy items enroute to get their prescription. My friend/neighbor loves almonds. They were on sale. I bought three bags for her, then the pads for Stinky the Ferret, were buy one package of 100, get another for 1/2 price. This was a good buy because Kayla and I consistently are making a trip to get new pads for her cage. He is very good at going to the pads when he needs to pee...or_____! I ended up spending more money than I expected, but I can rationalize because the items were a good price on sale.
>144 mdoris: Mary, I've never broken any bones, but I can imagine breaking your collar bone is very painful. I send healing thoughts your way for a speedy recovery. And, I hope you can sit and relax. Healing is necessary and a great excuse to grab a book or two or.... and read while you rest.
>145 atozgrl: Irene, thanks for you good wishes. The phamacist told me that the major central billing company many/most pharmacies use was hacked. This is a nationwide problem. He said it really is crippling the ability to process medications. Since I'm there often, he gave me the needed antibiotic and said they would bill when the system was up and running.
>146 jessibud2: Thanks for your kind wishes dear friend! I appreciate your kind thoughts!
>147 klobrien2: Hi Karen. My Father's Words is a keeper. I'm so glad you found it cathartic in your grieving process. Reading this book, encouraged me to find a way to honor Will on a daily basis. We always took a week's vacation at the shore. Will enjoyed taking Kayla in the waves. A store on the boardwalk sold Christmas objects and Kayla knew her Opa loved birds. Every year we purchased an Old World ornament of a colorful bird. I had a small Christmas tree stored in the basement. I surprised her by placing all of the bird ornaments on the tree, then I placed lights on the tree, and it now stands on top of a cabinet in the living room. It doesn't make us sad, it makes us remember wonderful memories of someone we loved so very much.
Thanks for your kind words regarding our healing process. Kayla is coughing a lot, and isn't one to suffer gladly. She doesn't like to be sick and there are a lot of woe is me comments. Today I asked her about her biology class and she immediately went into a long speel about what she is learning. She even obtained a piece of paper and drew diagrams of cell replications. It makes me happy to hear that there is a great teacher who is inspiriing her to learn. Her father is an identical twin. She drew a diagram about the difference between identical and fraternal twins. She told me that her father and his brother wore different hats consistently so she could tell the difference when she was little. One day they switched hats and she thought she was talking to her father. It was a great memory and she was able to focus on something other than feeling miserable with the flu.
Thanks to all for visiting my thread. This makes me very happy, and like Kayla, I can find something that gets my mind off the healing process, in my case it is pneumonia recovery. I'm really feeling my 71 years of age. It does take longer to heal when you are older!
149Whisper1
BOOKS OBTAINED IN MARCH 2024
1) A book titled Rejoice which contains words, poems and memories regarding Christmas. There are many various authors, and thus it is simply listed as Source Books. I bought this as a gift to give next Christmas.
2) The Freedom Race by Lucinda Roy
3) The Supernormal Sleuthing Service The Sphinx's Secret by Gwenda Bond & Christopher Rowe
4) The Age of Light by Whitney Scharer
5) Chimes of a Lost Cathedral by Janet Fitch
6) The Fitzgeralds and the Kennedys: An American Saga by Doris Kearns Goodwin
7) Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln b Doris Kearns Goodwin
8) The Last Campaign: Robert F. Kennedy and 82 Days That Inspired America by Thurston Clarke
9) Your Moon, My Moon: A Grandmother's Words to a Faraway Child by Patricia MacLachlan
10) Nora's Chicks by Patricia MacLachlan
11) Dragon Springs Road: A Novel by Janie Chang
BOOKS GIVEN AWAY IN MARCH 2024
1) The Twelve Days of Christmas Illustrated by David Delamare
2) Hush, Little Baby A Song with Pictures by Marla Frazee
1) A book titled Rejoice which contains words, poems and memories regarding Christmas. There are many various authors, and thus it is simply listed as Source Books. I bought this as a gift to give next Christmas.
2) The Freedom Race by Lucinda Roy
3) The Supernormal Sleuthing Service The Sphinx's Secret by Gwenda Bond & Christopher Rowe
4) The Age of Light by Whitney Scharer
5) Chimes of a Lost Cathedral by Janet Fitch
6) The Fitzgeralds and the Kennedys: An American Saga by Doris Kearns Goodwin
7) Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln b Doris Kearns Goodwin
8) The Last Campaign: Robert F. Kennedy and 82 Days That Inspired America by Thurston Clarke
9) Your Moon, My Moon: A Grandmother's Words to a Faraway Child by Patricia MacLachlan
10) Nora's Chicks by Patricia MacLachlan
11) Dragon Springs Road: A Novel by Janie Chang
BOOKS GIVEN AWAY IN MARCH 2024
1) The Twelve Days of Christmas Illustrated by David Delamare
2) Hush, Little Baby A Song with Pictures by Marla Frazee
150Whisper1
BOOK #1 READ IN MARCH 2024
Night Guard by Synne Lea with illustrations of Stian Hole
This is a lovely gem of a book containg pages of poems with incredibly beautiful illustrations. I've had this book for awhile, and finally picked it up by chance to read, and I'm so glad I sat down in a comfortable chair and read the poems, some of which spoke to me, but, all of them are good!
Highly Recommended.
--------------------------
When Mom cries, she cries only
because she's happy, Dad says.
it's when she smiles
it's impossible
to know what she's thinking.
---------------------
There are trees
that hardly think at all
They just stand thee swaying
exactly as much
as the wind makes them.
And then there are trees
that think all the time.
on some days
it's just a question
of knowing the song.
--------------------
First my friend
laughs, and afterward
I do.
Then the laughter is
precisely long enough.
I can wind it
three times around my neck,
and get it to warm me
half the winter.
Night Guard by Synne Lea with illustrations of Stian Hole
This is a lovely gem of a book containg pages of poems with incredibly beautiful illustrations. I've had this book for awhile, and finally picked it up by chance to read, and I'm so glad I sat down in a comfortable chair and read the poems, some of which spoke to me, but, all of them are good!
Highly Recommended.
--------------------------
When Mom cries, she cries only
because she's happy, Dad says.
it's when she smiles
it's impossible
to know what she's thinking.
---------------------
There are trees
that hardly think at all
They just stand thee swaying
exactly as much
as the wind makes them.
And then there are trees
that think all the time.
on some days
it's just a question
of knowing the song.
--------------------
First my friend
laughs, and afterward
I do.
Then the laughter is
precisely long enough.
I can wind it
three times around my neck,
and get it to warm me
half the winter.
151Whisper1
BOOK #2 READ IN MARCH 2024
Enchanter's Spell: Five Famous Tales by Gennady Spirin
Review to follow--tomorrow
Enchanter's Spell: Five Famous Tales by Gennady Spirin
Review to follow--tomorrow
153thornton37814
I just visited another thread with several Patricia McLachlan books and then I saw you had read a few too!
154Whisper1
>152 SirThomas: Thanks for visiting, and for posting such a kind message.
155Whisper1
>153 thornton37814:, Yes, I heard from a member that they read MacLachlan's books and enjoyed them. I hope to read all of her books. Sadly, she passed away. There will be no new books. This is such a difficult thing to say. She is one of my favorite authors. She weaved words together and expressed so many thoughts in a beatiful way.
I hope you are well Lori.
I hope you are well Lori.
156Whisper1
>151 Whisper1: I will post a review of this book when I feel better. Sadly, I devolped the flu, most likely from Kayla. And, I'm not feeing strong from last week's stay in the hospital with Pneumonia. I'll review a book I read today, and thengo back to the Enchanter's Spell, a beautiful compliation of five fairy tales with lovely illustrations, when I feel better.
This topic was continued by Thread Number Three for Whisper1 (Linda) 2024.
