Whisper1's reading list take three

I'm joining the three thread gang.

My previous threads can be found here:

http://www.librarything.com/topic/51585

http://www.librarything.com/topic/58570

Thanks to all for stopping by!

Woo hoo, your third thread! Thanks for encouraging conversation and just being an all around good egg!

What a nice way to start a Saturday morning...Thanks for the compliment.

Found and starred!

Just checking in to let you know I found you!

Congratulations on three threads--I always look forward to your comments--everywhere. Hope you are back up to speed.

Thanks everyone! I've met some very nice people here in the 75 challenge group.

Welcome to the 3-thread gang, Linda!

Just wanted to stop by and say hello. Thanks for coming by my thread today. We got 6 beautiful inches of snow today. Yea! Have a wonderful weekend. :)
--BJ

Whisp, how many Newberys are there in total? Haven't they been going on since at least the 20s? Do you have trouble finding the older ones?

Hi Tiffin
Happy Sunday morning to you.
I believe the first award was given in 1922 for a book The Story of Mankind by Hendrik Willem Van Loon. Neil Gaiman's The Graveyard Book is the most recent winner. So, 87 Newbery Medal winners and then there are the Newbery Honor books. I'm not sure how many of those there are, but now I'm curious and will try to find this information later today.

According to the librarian of my local library, she has a difficult time obtaining some of the earlier books as her library has a rule that the books have to be purchased new.

I am rather excited because last week I was able to purchase (through Ebay) 68 YA books, many of which are Newbery award winners... all for the awesome price of $15.50.....
It feels like Christmas in March!!!

We won't SEE you until Christmas, in that case. hahaha

"I am rather excited because last week I was able to purchase (through Ebay) 68 YA books, many of which are Newbery award winners... all for the awesome price of $15.50..... "

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Are you TRYING to kill us???

I am so. so. so. so. jealous.

:)

23 cents a book!!! Fantastic!

Linda,

I just finished Kira-Kira. Wow! Thank you so much for recommending it. It's a beautiful story.

lorie

This is a book that I simply want to encourage as many people as possible to read.

tiffin

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Newbery_Honor_books

I'm tired this evening, but if I counted correctly, there are 287 Newbery Honor books and 87 Newbery Award winners.

Looks like I have a lot of reading to do in the next few years.

I am so happy for you that you got such a great price on your books! I usually like the Newberry books and did not realize that The Graveyard Book had won it. My daughter has this book and highly recommends it, so I think that I will try to read it this summer. Have a wonderful Monday!
--BJ
Edited to fix the touchstone.

Linda

Thanks for the link so I didn't have to hunt for you! I will post my comments on this thread when I finish Kira-Kira, hopefully before Saturday when it is due!

The Frozen Thames by Helen Humphreys

Thanks to Kiwidoc for recommending this marvelous book.

The Thames River was frozen forty times during the period of 1142 - 1895. In this superbly crafted work, the author weaves a rich tapestry of forty stories based upon actual historical events.

Her images are as sharp, vivid and crystalized as the ice that locked the land. Using incredible writing skills, Humphreys paints winterized scenes and then places the characters smack in the middle of the canvas where the reader, gazing from the shore, can feel the cold sting of air as it frosts the nose, numbs the extremities, and unforgivingly drops the birds from the sky as their frozen wings inhibit flight.

While there is a playful nature of the characters who skate effortlessly gliding on the surface, attend frost fairs, build fires and capriciously delight in the sheer folly of a frozen river, paradoxically Humphreys twists with images of fish frozen beneath the surface of ice that breaks and cuts and drowns those who foolishly trust the strength of an unsteady medium.

The creativity of this book rendered it a joy to read. Intertwining stories of the simple pheasant with a rich historical list of characters such as Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, Charles I and II, Cromwell and mad as a hatter King George, each page was elegantly written.

Highly recommended.

(edited for typos)

#20: I am officially jealous! My library does not have that one, as I discovered when I pulled it off Kiwi's thread. I may have to put it on ILL.

What a wonderful review. Thanks! :)
--BJ

just nipping in to star your thread and say hi!

what a wonderful review! I'll be looking for that!

Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson

Thanks to Cal8769, allthesedarnbooks and flissp for recommending this 1978 Newbery Medal winner.

A timeless coming of age classic regarding the bonds of friendship, love, and family with a sad reminder that the things that bring joy can in equal measure bring pain.

Jess and Leslie are two fifth graders who navigate through the cruel quagmire of unkind peers.

Together, they form a wonderful friendship as Jess possesses the gift of drawing and Leslie weaves magic with words and imagination. Escaping to a make believe world of Terabithia, they create a safe space where pain is left behind and nature heals. To obtain entrance to Terabithia, the two must swing out over a gully/ravine on a rope.

SPOILER ALERT:
Tragically, Leslie's life ends as one day, alone, she attempts to cross to the other side and the rope breaks.

Building a bridge to Terabithia is Jess' way of coping with the loneliness and grief.

Gack! You need to put spoiler warnings on your reviews!

Luckily, I've already seen the movie so I knew the ending ;-) I did remember it coming as a bit of a shock though.

The Frozen Thames sounds amazing. I'm on the case to track it down ASAP.

#26,,,so sorry that I didn't put a spoiler on this one! I wasn't sure how to write the review and explain the significance of the need for the bridge.

#27 orangeena, it is an amazing book. I forgot to mention that there is exquisite art work throughout.

#28: OK, now I am doubly jealous about The Frozen Thames! Artwork, too?!

You know I'm really jealous of your quest - I'm thinking I'm going to pick a month of two and tackle some award myself, it looks like such fun! What do you plan to do when you run out of Newberry winners, by the way? :)

#29
Stasia
Do try to obtain the book via interlibrary loan. I very much like Helen Humphreys writing. I am a English history buff. It was very obvious she did a lot of research in pulling together this work.

#30
I highly recommend the Newbery journey. I'm not sure what the next goal will be. Perhaps I should tackle the HUGE tbr pile. Since Neil Gaiman won the 2009 Newbery Medal, I may start with this book (Thanks Stasia for sending this one to me) and then I go through all his books.

#31: I already have one ILL pending, so I will have to wait until I get and read it before I can do the Humphreys book, but it is next on the agenda.

You are quite welcome about the book. It was my pleasure. Enjoy!

#31 Yay for a Neil Gaiman goal!

Linda

Book 64 sounds really interesting. Last year I read Orlando by Virginia Woolf and it includes an episode when the Thames was frozen over. I didn't realize it had happened so often! I'm putting this one on my TBR pile. I hope I can find it! :-)

#29 Stasia

I just checked my library ValleyCat system and I think they may be releasing a new edition because 2 of the The Frozen Thames. Two libraries have it listed as "newly acquired." I'm going to request it, so when it is ready to be checked out i will be one of the first to get it!

If you have a way to request your library to purchase new things you might try that.

#35: Good idea, Carolyn. I will check with my library when I am there tomorrow.

What a wonderful premise for a book! The Frozen Thames sounds promising. Thanks for the recommendation.

I've been searching for it, as well. I usually put in requests for books from the library - often before they are acquired and have been successful in being first in line when they come. This title, however, is not even in their database yet.
I'll keep looking.

Glad you liked The Frozen Thames, Linda. I think she did a lot of research with that one, and it was beautifully presented too.

Thanks for the fabo. review. I think sales of this book will spike after such a recommend!!

So glad you had good ebay finds! When M-bags were their fantastic low price I bought that way a lot :) books lots, of course.

Bisous!

>25 Whisper1:: Linda

I am glad you liked Bridge to Terabithia, I have it and read it two or three years ago (not sure, defenitly BLT Before LibraryThing), it made me cry...

Anita

The Doll People by Ann M. Martin

If you are looking for something in depth and intellectual, this isn't the book for you, but if you are weary, tired and simply wanting something smooth, delightfully creative, imaginative and unique, then by all means, take a journey through doll land where magic occurs.

Thanks to Boehmia for recommending this fun book.

A porcelain family of dolls have inhabited an antique doll house for four generations. They come alive during the day when the house is empty and at night when the house is quiet.

There are funny adventures, both inside the doll house where the 100 year old family bangs away at a old fashioned wooden piano singing Aretha Franklin's Respect sockittome. sockitome, sockitome and outside the doll house where they hesitantly wander down the dark halls, sneaking under the sofa, hiding from the family cat who is ever lurking to catch them.

The book is uniquely illustrated by Brian Selznick and would not be as wondrous without the stunning creative art work.

When the young daughter of the real life people family receives a gift, the 100 year old doll family meet a brand new, modern, adventurous plastic bunch of characters who are not as rigid, up tight or breakable.

The author delightfully intertwines the personalities and the cultural differences of the older and modern doll family members.

I liked this book for many reasons, primarily for the imaginative wonderment of it all.

The Doll People sounds interesting. I've seen this book in the bookstore and have been tempted to buy it, but haven't. Maybe I won't be so resistent next time. While reading your review it kind of reminded me of The Indian in the Cupboard series. My daughter and I enjoyed it very much when she was about 10-12 years old, and now my grandson loves them as well. You may enjoy reading the series, Linda, if you haven't already.

#42: I have added The Doll People to the Continent since I already know that I like Brian Selznick's art work.

Linda, if you have not given his The invention of Hugo Cabret a try, you really should! I think you would like it.

Lorie. It is timely that you mentioned The Indian in the Cupboard series. I obtained two of these books yesterday, one was among the 68 YA books I purchased on ebay for $15.50 and then when I went to the library, I saw the follow up book on a sale rack for .10. I hope to read them soon. Thanks for the recommendation.

Stasia, I'm heading back to the library today to see if I can obtain The invention of Hugo Cabret. Before reading The Doll People I had not heard of Brian Selznick. His drawings were what made the book so special.

(edited for typos)

#45: Let me know if you like it or not. I thought it was a terrific kid's book and not so bad for adults, either :o)

I do NOT like short stories, Linda, but The Frozen Thames has gone on the list. You made it sound so good!

Linda

Another 75 challenger with a "double whammy" on the Hot Review list. Wow! You, Tad, and Eliza (girlunderglass) need to start a club! You and Tad are on there at the same time! I'm keeping company in a rarefied atmosphere!

Oh! Did I say "CONGRATULATIONS!

Carolyn

Thanks for mentioning the hot reveiw for The Doll People. You are always so kind. I didn't notice the hot reviews today, so I appreciate that you let me know.

Blackdogbooks is on there also.

I was......for what? I missed it altogether!

Hot Review for the Herriot book.

blackdogbooks
I just read your excellent review. I must read this book as soon as possible. It sounds so delightful!

Woo Hoo for all of the 75ers Hot Reviewers!!

Clay by David Almond

The words unsettling, creepy, supernaturally eerie, bizarre, spooky and unconventional come to mind when describing this book.

Geordie and Davie are thirteen and learning to be tough when facing the town bully Martin Mould and his small gang of near do wells. The situation quickly gets out of hand when the physical altercations tend toward violence.

When Stephen Rose comes to town, this mysterious character about whom little is known but much is speculated molds and exerts evil influence upon Davie with disastrous consequences.

This dark tale is primarily about Stephen and Davie who attempt to play God. Creepy Stephen Rose has the ability to form lifelike figures from clay. Seeking revenge on Martin Mould, together Stephen and Davie fashion a clay man who, in a zombie like trance, comes to life and obeys their commands.

I'd like to write a nice tidy ending to the story, but there isn't one. I'm still sorting through my feelings/thoughts about this book. I thoroughly enjoyed all other Almond books I read, but I think I should have left this one on the book shelf.

#55: I think I may give that one a pass. I do not like unsettling, creepy, et al in my books, lol.

Clay not only sounds interesting, but I love the cover!
Unlike Stasia, I am a fan of creepy :)
I have plenty of creepy books on my shelves...

You are making wonderful progress!

I'M HOOKED!!! You said all the right words and though you didn't intend to, I don't think, you have recommended a book for me. Thanks.

Ooh, sounds like it's right up my ally too! Thanks whisper!

what's clay about?

I have just finished reading Dahl's Skin and Other Stories and I must say, I loved it! I will be adding Clay to my TBR pile as well!

>25 Whisper1:: I hadn't realised Bridge to Terabithia was published that far back - it felt really fresh and current when I read it (although actually, hmm, that was probably in the mid-80s so not really that long after publication!! But at the time when the years were much bigger in comparison to one's own life span). I think it's the first book that ever made me cry when I read it.

Flossie

Please check your home page for a message from me.

Thanks!

I am sorry Linda you wished you had left this one on the shelf.

possible spoiler
I thought the clay-man was positive, because he was, like Davie, unable to kill. In many ways the clay-man reminded me of the Golem.
More disturbing was the thought how Stephen became the boy he was...
end spoiler alert

Anita

Anita
Thanks for sharing your perspective. I think the reason I said I should have left it on the shelf is because I read it at night and was haunted by it.

I agree re. your insight of comparison of the clay man and Golem...

I always enjoy your communications and comments. Thanks.

>63 Whisper1:: I'm getting there, Linda :) Catching up on the threads.... now not so convinced that restricting myself to once a week on LT was a good idea.

Flossie

I waited pretty much all day today and I'm so far behind I may never catch up! I try to clear all my starred ones becore i go to bed, but didn't have time to get them all last night. so this morning I had a little time and did some then. I just got on now, about 8 hours later and "there's been a flood!" :-}

Here Lies the Librarian by Richard Peck

Thanks to Tina (tututhefirst) for recommending this one. After reading A Year Down Yonder and A Long Way From Chicago, two very humorous books, I wanted to continue the laughter.

While this story was not as humorous as the others, I enjoyed Peck's play on words and the creativity in depicting small town Americana in a down home way.

The setting is small town Indiana at the dawn of automobile invention. Tom boy PeeWee lives on the outskirts of a sleepy town with her brother as together they operate a down and out garage.

When a tornado rips through the town, the local graveyard is torn apart, leaving one of the markers intact reading "Here lies the librarian, after years of service tried and true, Heaven stamped her overdue."

The tornado is just the beginning of a topsy turvy world when four college age librarians come to town to re open the run-down library.

Once again, Peck developed characters that are incredibly likeable and quirky.

This sound like fun! I hope I have time this summer to try it.

Carolyn
It is a quick, delightful read.

I'm writing that one on my TBR list also. Peck's writing is laugh-out-loud fun.

Sounds like a good one to me, too. I have been enjoying some humorous books this year. Have a great day!
--BJ

The Heavenly Village by Cynthia Rylant

A magical book, lyrically, eloquently, poetically written by this Newbery Award author of Missing May, the book that was one of my favorite reads of 2009.

Through seven beautifully woven stories, Rylant describes a stopping/resting place between heaven and earth.

From reading both these books, it is obvious that Rylant has a deep spiritual base that shines through her works.

I recommend this book to anyone dealing with the loss of a loved one. I recommend this book to anyone who has wonderful memories of a beloved person who has passed away.

Heavenly Village is a ideal place to dwell for those who were destined for heaven, but in the transition, were still earth bound and not wanting to leave behind their cats, their loved ones, and perhaps still need a chance and opportunity to rectify things undone.

All is well in the Heavenly Village where Everett who died at 46 went through life in a ho hum way, counting, counting, counting without recognizing the beauty of the items he counted. Now Everett has the opportunity to magically impart beauty to those on earth.

Poor Violet Rose had a terrible childhood but made the best of her adult life in finding a job at a bakery and found purpose when cats magically appeared to her. In the Heavenly Village she bakes bread and periodically visits her cats on earth.

Eight year old Harold and his rescue dog Fortune died tragically. Fortune and Harold still have some people to rescue and thus dwell in the Heavenly Village.

A small book that, wherein once again, Rylant uses words wisely and doesn't waste time and energy in developing the story, painting clear, crisp images, and poetically leaving the reader feeling as though they have experienced magic.

#73: I will look for that one. I already know my local library has Missing May, so hopefully they will have that one as well!

Great reviews, Whisper. I remember a lot of these books from my kids reading. The Henry and Mudge series done by Rylant was a joy for both my kids when they were early readers. She is a talented gal!!

The Meanest Doll in the World by Ann. M. Martin

A follow up on The Doll People wherein the dolls continue their adventures throughout the house of the "real" people.

This is another book filled with incredible art work of Brian Selznick and I read this book not for the plot, of which there is nothing great to write about, but to once again enjoy the fine detail of Selznick's artistry. The book would be flat and dull if not for his creativity.

The story line is ok and continues the saga of the plastic and the porcelain doll families who come to life when the humans are away or sleeping. In this book they meet a very wicked, evil, nasty princess doll who destroys the play room and maliciously harms and bullies others.

I wasn't as enthralled with this story as much as the first book The Doll People, but again, if you are looking for an escape and enjoy turning page and page to discover wonderful drawings, then take a stroll down doll lane where leaving the comforts of the house is always an adventure.

Linda - Message 68 = Book 68! You must have planned that! But, even if you didn't, I've marked Richard Peck's Here Lies the Librarian as one to look for. Thanks.

More great books everyday! I'm jealous! Actually you've made me want to read a children's book - any children's book - your reviews make the books sound so adorable! I must find one of these soon!

My mom has informed me that The View from Saturday has arrived at her house, I'm thinking maybe that's a good next read!

Even the title, Here Lies the Librarian sounds great! I'd not heard of this author before, but will definitely (I just know I'm spelling that wrong) look him up based on your recs.

Have you read Blue Willow? It's a great book about a migrant family of long, long ago. Sad and yet endearing.

I really feel validated here---I'm not the only one who reads kids'/YA books mixed in with other, more "adult" works. Sometimes I think I'm a bit odd--of course, the rest of the time I know I'm odd--when I pick out some of these books and enjoy them so very much.

Hi Gail

You are spelling definitely the correct way...

I haven't heard of Blue Willow and will add it to the tbr pile.

YA reading was not a genre I was familiar with before joining LT. Now, like you, I find such delight in these books.

If you haven't read Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse, I highly recommend this one.

And, you also might want to check Anita's thread. She is the one who started me on the YA journey.

Thanks again for your recommendation of The Doll People and The Meanest Doll in the World.

Just stopping by to say hi, Linda. I'm trying to catch up on all the threads after several days and it's a little daunting! It looks like you are reading some interesting books.

Beware, Princess Elizabeth by Carolyn Meyer

An uncomplicated telling of a complicated subject. This is the story of Elizabeth I from the time after the death of her father Henry VIII through the death of her sister Bloody Mary Tudor.

While the author did a credible job, it seemed to drag along in places. However, the personality of Elizabeth I did come through as this strong, tenacious, stubborn woman survived Mary's threats and cruelty to eventually rule England for 45 years during one of the most remarkable historical time of William Shakespeare, Francis Drake, Sir Walter Raleigh and the defeat of the Spanish Armada.

The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick

Thanks to Porch reader, Lycomayflower and Alcottacre for recommending this delightful book.

The setting is 1931 Paris France where we enter the hiding place of Hugo Cabret a 12 year old orphan who lives secretly in the train station and, because of the skill taught by his deceased father, he keeps the station clocks running.

The black and white illustrations by Selznick are breathtakingly beautiful. The story is told in words and illustrations while weaving a magical tale regarding the turn of the century George Melies, his films and his wind up figures called automata.

Hugo's world intersects with a cranky older man (Melies) who operates a toy store in the train station and his God daugher Isabella. Together Hugo and Isabella unlock the secrets of her Godfather.

This is a wonderful story of things broken and mended, of items and pieces that singularly are nothing until all parts come together to make a smooth running magical instrumental masterpiece.

Highly recommended.

#84: I am so glad you liked it!

Green Angel by Alice Hoffman

When reading another Alice Hoffman book, I'm reminded that she is one of my favorite authors. She consistently weaves magic into characters that have a mystical, yet down to earth, quality about them.

The setting of this haunting book is a town and countryside destroyed by a terrible conflagration.

Using metaphorical symbolism, Hoffman tells the tale of Green who stayed behind on the day her mother, father and sister went to town to sell their vegetables. Resentful, Green does not say goodbye. Thus, when her family perishes in the fire, she bears tremendous guilt.

As the sky is gray, blocking the sun, the land is unproductive and societal rules seem to fall apart. What remains is a band of people who eek out a living, some of whom cannot overcome their grief and live sad apathetic lives.

Green remains cut off and lives alone, hardened and thorny. As slowly she reaches out to a neighbor, a dog, a few birds and a forsaken emotionally distraught young woman, Ash begins the process of healing.

In her usual style, Hoffman transforms the character in a fairytale fashion. Thorns and nettles are replaced with new growth of food as the ash is pushed aside to allow earth that produces and inner strength that rejuvenates.

#86: Isn't it funny how sometimes you can forget how much you enjoy an author when you pick up another one of her books and then realize - "Hey! I really like this person's books and why haven't I read more of them?"

Green Angel sounds like another good read. I will have to ILL that one, though - my local library has several of hers, but not that one.

I have never read any of Hoffman's books. Is there a good starting point, Linda?

Stasia

Here is a site regarding Alice Hoffman. I've never read a book of hers I didn't like. I think I've read all but two.

http://www.alicehoffman.com/index2.htm

Some were made into movies, Practical Magic comes to mind.

Thanks for the link!

Books #72 & 73 sound excellent... I've seen both at the bookstores but never managed to pick them up... thanks for the great reviews!

#86 I'm also an Alice Hoffman fan, but have not read Green Angel yet. I'll be adding it to the pile. Another very nice review, Linda.

Green Angel sounds good. Thank you for the review

>86 Whisper1: Great review of Green Angel. It's already written in the wishNotebook. I have loved Hoffman since Property Of, which may have actually been her first book or close to it. I've slacked off reading her books of late, which I need to remedy.

also, > 83 Beware, Princess Elizabeth. My daughter read this and thought it was just "meh", but we both thought the picture on the cover looks like Madonna.

Linda

I have never heard of Alice Hoffman. I have "tagged" the web site and this summer when I have time I will look into her work. She sounds like I might like her books. You are so helpful with your leaving us paths to follow as we explore new reading areas. Thanks!

Oh My Heck!!!! Never heard of Alice Hoffman? Well, you have a lot of good reads in your future.. My first Alice Hoffman was Turtle Moon way back in the 80's I think it was.. I have read many of her books since, and loved them. I hope you do too! So many good ones, I really don't know where to suggest that you start.

I'm looking forward to reading my first Alice Hoffman soon, White Horses is the one I have. God knows when I will get round to it though!

good one, short, YA I think?

#95 mckait

Guess I'd better wander over to fantasticfiction.co.uk and find out what I'vve been missing! ;-)

Great review of Green Angel. I read it a few years ago and really enjoyed it.

I think I need to check out Alice Hoffman's other books. Green Angel is the only one I've read of hers

Jess

You cannot go wrong with Alice Hoffman. One of her earlier works (site below) was especially poignant and started me on the journey to read all her books:

http://www.alicehoffman.com/hoffman-at-risk.htm

hmmm, seems I missed that one somehow, Whisper.... I will have to correct that :)

I read The Ice Queen by Alice Hoffman and thought it was an amazing book. It was the first book of hers that I have ever read, but I do hope to read more.
--BJ

I agree with you regarding The Ice Queen. It is one of her more recent books and a good one!

Whisp, I am so glad that you are enjoying The Book Thief. Isn't it an amazing book? It has gone on my lifetime list.

Tiffin
Amazing is a very good word for it! It is incredibly well written!

Hi Linda! I'm so glad you liked The Invention of Hugo Cabret. I loved both the writing and the pictures.

It's been a while since I read an Alice Hoffman book. Thanks for your review of Green Angel. I'll be on the lookout for that one!

#106

I agree. It was a great book. Thanks for recommending it to me.

Linda
I loved The Book Thief too, haven't yet read a better book this year!
Anita

I may just read The Book Thief next....after all the good comments here..

Kath
It is sad...overwhelmingly sad!!! It is beautifully written and I agree with Anita, it just may be the best book I have read this year!

oh no! sad?

Well, I have begun, sort of... just a few pages in.. between fever and now a new thing.. my eye hurts.. eep! I had to quit.. I will carry on though.. and read it. Right now though, I think I am going to bed. Fever or no, I have to go to work tomorrow. That is also sad.... for me :P

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

This is a book of many things. It is a story of sorrow; It is a story of joy. It is a story of tears; It is a story of laughter, of promise, of lies, of life, of death, of holding on and of letting go, of beauty, of ugliness, of black, of white and of gray.

It is one of the best books I've ever read and it is one wherein, while I'm glad I read it, I'm also torn in that I am sorry I did so because it is destined to haunt me for a long, long time.

There are many reviews posted here on our 75 book challenge site, many of which are excellent and thus, I call your attention to those.

This is a book about the power of words and it has left me speechless.

#112

"It is one of the best books I've ever read and it is one wherein, while I'm glad I read it, I'm also torn in that I am sorry I did so because it is destined to haunt me for a long, long time."

Wow!

Great review! I will add this one to my wishlist. Thanks.
--BJ

That is a fantastic review.. if I hadn't started it anyway, I would due to what you have written. Off to work though, no reading until after.

#112 Hmmm, I've been toying with whether to read this or not - seems I may have to add it to the list...

Your comments are powerful and led me straight to the reviews. I think I will add it to my list.

The Reader is next in line for me - the two sound sound eerily similar. Is Markus Zusak a German writer?

orangeena
Here is a site regarding Zusak. He hails from Australia.

http://www.randomhouse.com/features/markuszusak/author.html

the Reader is on my tbr pile. I'm anxious to learn of your comments when you are finished.

Whisp, it did the same thing to me. Just left me wrung right out with the power in it.

The Book Thief is a frustrating one for me. I started it last year, then left it at the vacation cabin by mistake, so I won't be able to finish it until this summer.

You make me want a library even more than I did already, if that is possible :)

Glad you've had some good reads. (edited because I'm all thumbs today it seems! argh)

What a great recommendation. I recently read I am the Messenger by Zusak and really enjoyed it. I already have The Book Thief on order at the library and are eagerly awaiting its arrival.

Hi dianestm
Stasia highly recommends I am Messenger and I hope to obtain a copy from my library this week.

Totally agree with you on The Book Thief as it is one that haunts you long after your done. I found Death's interruptions in the beginning to be annoying but I got used to it after awhile. This is one of those books where though you know the inevitability of certain events(WWII and its outcomes), you are still left wondering how others will play out(How will the family in the story fare). It also accomplished one of those rare feats of being touching without being saccharine.

Hi Whisper, did you know your review on The Book Thief is in Hot Reviews today? Congratulations :)

*lurker pounce* - I read your thread regularly, thanks for all the interesting reviews!

Well done whisp!

I am having a little trouble reading Book Thief.. I was so tired that I fell asleep soon after supper last night, while trying to read. ( Work yesterday was a teeny little corner of hell)

I will pick it up again tonight, but I suspect that not a lot of reading will be done until the weekend.

Hi ChocolateMuse
Thanks for letting me know. I see that Richard and LisaCurcio also have "Hot Reviews" .

Thanks for lurking on my thread. I'll be sure to check yours.

Kath, I found the Book Thief to be consuming.
I'm sorry you are having yet another difficult week at work. When will this end? Hang in there.

LOL, Whisper, you're not allowed to do anymore reviews on creepy, haunting books! You make me die of curiosity. First the Dahl book and now this review... :)

Whisp

I believe I will enjoy it..
work is never easy where I work..
but what with illness, construction and well.. other things..
( my hands were ripped from above my wrist to my fingers, and very sore yesterday) its never easy.. not a big deal..
its just that sometimes during the work week I am too tired to read effectively.
Lunch when I get it is anywhere from 20-25 minutes... and mostly spent just breathing.. lol

its okay, just wearing... plus the computer sucks me in..

I will get into the book no later than tomorrow :)

Linda, great review of one the best books I've ever, ever read. Whimsical and sad, moving and funny--a marvelous experience. I'm really on the stump for this book: I urge it on everyone I meet.

Hi Gail
I agree with you. I'm driving my co-workers nuts as I visit each office, book in hand saying "You HAVE to read this!" One co-worker's mother in law was a holocaust survivor who hid in the forest for two years. This is a woman who was left with survivor's guilt when she lost her parents, sister and brother who were "exterminated" in concentration camps.

God, I hate that word "exterminated".

#130 & 131: Now you have another place to share your enthusiasm for this book. :-) You can go to "If I could force everyone I tagged to read one book" on either the 50-Book thread or the 999-challenge.

Hi Linda,
Just trying to catch up on the threads which I've neglected for several days. Once you get behind it's really hard to catch up.

Loved you review of The Book Thief and I'm glad you enjoyed it. I had the same reaction and it is one of my all time favorite books as well. It's a very powerful book and not just for young adults.

Jacob Have I Loved by Katherine Paterson

Paterson is one of the few recipients of two Newbery Medal Awards. This winner in 1981 follows Bridge to Terabithia. While I enjoyed the first, I found Jacob Have I Loved more profound.

Set in the 1940's small island community located on the Chesapeake Bay, this thought provoking book is a tale of twin sisters, one plain and one beautiful. One is musically gifted with a beautiful voice, the other rough and jagged from the constant comparison, leaving her missing the mark and not quite as pretty, as talented, as smart, as alluring.

The story is told from the voice of Louise who, from her birth, was treated differently than her twin. As she struggles with second best, the perception is cruelly confirmed in a moment of vulnerability as her bitter, bible quoting, misguided grandmother whispers "Jacob have I loved, but Esau Have I Hated."

The analogy of the bible reference is woven throughout the book as the family sacrifices for the one, leaving the other to feel emotionally neglected.

While Caroline is known for her incredible musical talent, Louise is a tom boy who works with her father in fishing and crabbing.

As Louise develops a sense of self, unconnected to her sister, she leaves the island and finds her own voice.

I recommend this book for the depth of portrayal of sibling rivalry and the clear, concise perceptive writing.

Sounds like another great read, Linda! On to the Continent it goes.

I agree, another good read, its on the TBR mountain. Cheers

Linda - I read Jacob Have I Loved as a kid, but it sounds like it's time for a re-read. I'll bet I find another layer of meaning in it this time around. Thanks!

I read Jacob Have I Loved years ago when my daughter was in middle school. I don't remember much about it except that I liked it. Time for a re-read. Another great review, Linda!

#135, 136, 137 and 138
Thanks for stopping by.
When I wrote the review, I didn't think I did the book justice. It is a simple story told in a powerful, gentle way. I like Katherine Paterson's books. She has a wonderful ability of capturing emotions.

Well, would you credit it!? You might be swaying me to the dark side, err..., I mean, YA books! I have just picked up a copy of The Book Thief based on your emphatic endorsement.

Peter
I'll be curious to learn of your impressions of The Book Thief. I hope all is well with your two beautiful little guys!

I have just found a copy of The Book Thief that I bought for the kids quite a while ago. I never considered reading it then, but it is on the TBR now. Thanks.

saying hi, and your last book sounds like my childhood. Think I'll pass ;)

The Reader by Bernhard Schlink

This powerful, compelling tale kept me reading until well into the wee morning hours. Dealing with a highly controversial subject of 15 year old Michael Berg who is seduced by Hana Schmitz, a woman more than twice his age, Schlink's writing is incredibly beautiful as he weaves the story of vulnerability and the pull of first love that is dominating, consuming and boundry breaking.

Young Michael not only is captivated by the sexual relationship, but as Hana requests that he read to her, the relationship becomes deeper and stronger
as he discovers her thoughts and opinions through the books he reads.

As Michael is drawn deeper into the relationship, he discovers a highly complicated, stoic woman who leaves his life as suddenly as she entered it.

Years later when he is an adult and law student, he again becomes entwined when he sees Hana in the court room where she is on trial for crimes committed when she was a guard at a Nazi prison camp for Jewish women.

The testimony and trial is like his original love for her, consuming, confusing and emotion driven.

The reader of this book is pulled in by Michael's thoughts, his observations, his confusion and his moral, ethical journey as he tries to sort through human nature, the definition of sin and the confusion regarding what we really do know about those we love.

Highly recommended. The writing is exquisitely beautiful, lyrical and thought provoking.

Thanks to alaskabookwoman for recommending this book that was on my to be read pile for a year. My regret is that I didn't read it sooner.

Fantastic review, great story and...who is that on the cover? Has it been made into a movie? The title sounds very familiar, although that might be just because the book is popular, I guess.

Man, it's good to be back on LT after three Internetless days! Enjoying your thread as much as always,

Eliza

Good review, Whisp. Your link is going to "The Lace Reader", not "The Reader".

The Reader: this is the one.

Hi Tiffin
Thanks for stopping by. Coming from you, the one who writes so many "hot reviews", I'm honored by your compliments.

The book was made into a movie and Kate Winslet played Hana.

Good to have you back on LT!

I just saw the movie this past weekend and was very impressed by it. Haven't read the book yet (it's on the list), but I think, from your review (which was great, as always), that this might be one of those rare cases where the movie does full justice to the book. Got to move this puppy into "buy" mode.

Nice review, Whisper! I'm adding it to my wish list.

I agree with all the comments about The Reader. It sounds really good and it's definitely gone onto my TBR pile!

Hi Whisper

I had lost your thread! I finally found it again, great review for The Reader. I added it to my wishlist.

Some classmates had mentioned Jacob Have I Loved - I will have to try to pick that one up too

Great review of The Reader. I read it earlier this year and it is one of my favorites so far.

Another fabulous review Whisper.

Linda - I was on the fence about The Reader, but based on your review, I'm going to give it a try. Thanks!

Hana's Suitcase by Karen Levine

I begin by honestly saying this simply written book impacted me on a very deep level. Having recently finished The Reader by Bernhard Schlink, a novel of beauty and poignancy, I still carry the haunting memories of the character of Hana Schmitz, a woman who, as a prison guard at a small camp near Cracow, determined the fate of children sent to their death.

As I read Hana's Suitcase, I couldn't help but think about the two Hana's -- one adult fictionalized character for a novel, yet based on real life situations, and the other Hana, a real life child who suffered at Auschwitz by the hands of powerful guards who held her fragile life in balance.

In March of 2000 a tattered suitcase was sent from the Auschwitz Centre to the Children's Holocaust Education Center in Tokyo, Japan. Miraculously surviving 69 years, the suitcase bore the inscription Hanna Brady 625, May 16, 1931, Waisenkind.

Fumiko Ishioka, the director of the Tokyo center, wisely used the suitcase as an instrument of learning for the students who visited. Soon, the students and Ishioka became obsessed with finding the pieces of the puzzle to the story of Hanna the "Waisenkind", a word meaning orphan in German.

What they found and shared with others is a testimony to kindness, to goodness, to perseverance and to a wonderful story of hope that transcends the inhumanity of horror.

In a simple and beautfiul style, Levine alternates the journey of Fumiko and her students with the journey of a lovely young woman from Nove Mesto Czechoslovakia whose only "fault" was that she happened to be Jewish at a time when Hitler was bent on exterminating her culture, her race and identity.

This is a dramatic book filled with light that shines through the darkness.

Highly recommended!

Thanks to Alcottacre (Stasia) and Cait86 for noting this gem on their list of recommendations!

#144 and #155
Two more excellent reviews, Linda. You've added to my TBR pile again!

#155: Great review of Hana's Suitcase, Linda. I am glad you enjoyed it.

#155 - Lovely review. Here a few links...

Hana's Suitcase Homepage
CBC Hana's Suitcase Documentary

Great review on The Reader. Its going on the TBR mountain.

Wow Linda...I read The Reader years ago when it first came out, and hope to re-read it sometime in the next year, but Hana's Suitcase is definitely going on the TBR list. Thanks for a great review.

Hope your review of The Reader for your book club went well - I'm so glad you liked it.

It seems everyone who reads it finds it a powerful book - a lot of complexity jammed into a lean package!

That book has been sitting on the TBR mountain for ages and is getting squashed waiting - it gets a big leg-up now. That is a really fabulous review, Whisper.

Thanks to all for your affirmation! Consecutively reading three books dealing with the holocaust has been quite a journey! Each one, well written, insightful, poignant and heart breaking.

Beautifully written, The Book Thief told the story of a town and lives torn apart and of simple everyday people forever changed because of Hitler's brutal mission.

Deep ethical, moral issues were woven throughout The Reader as, from the first page, Bernhard Schlink pulled me into a tale of complexity. The horrific actions perpetrated by those placed in positions bound to follow Hitler's command sent innocent people to their deaths. Hana Schmitz's powerful question to the judge -- "What would YOU have done?" was very thought provoking.

Poignantly written, the incredible beauty of Hana's Suitcase was in a simple tale of one item inscribed with a name, one Centre director compelled to bring history to others so that memories would not die, and one group of students who tenaciously would not let go until the puzzle pieces of Hana's life were glued and framed for all to know who this incredible young innocent 13 year old child was who died so tragically.

Great reviews - I am so glad you enjoyed both The Reader and Hana's Suitcase!!

Your reviews are quite impressive. I had never heard of Hana's Suitcase before, but I must find that one at the library on my next visit. Thank you for sharing that story.

#112 The Book Thief sounds like a book I would like to read and I'll see if it is available at my library this weekend. It sort of sounds like The Road maybe not the premise but the bleakness. Do you think there are any similarities?

Hi Carmenere
I haven't read The Road. Can you tell me about it.
thanks.

#164, Thanks to you and Stasia for telling me about Hana's Suitcase. It is one of my top reads for 2009.

#165...Thanks for your kind words. Please do try to find Hana's Suitcase. It is a very powerful book.

#167 Wow, The Road, where to begin......It is a post apocolyptic story of survival in a world that is nowhere close to the one before, of a man and his young son, of enduring love.....I seriously get choked up writing about it..........of cruel, horrible people that will do anything to survive............and then there is kindness and gentleness. And in this respect it seems like it reminds me of stories I've read about the holocaust thus the possible similarity.

Thanks for your response. I've now added it to the tbr list.

For One More Day by Mitch Albom

A small book that packs a powerful message of love and forgiveness.

Charles "Chick" Benetto made some mistakes he deems unforgivable. As a down and out alcoholic he lost his wife and daughter; As a son, he left his mother alone when she needed him most; As a child, he was sharp tongued and self absorbed.

Hell bent on suicide, this former baseball player receives a miracle visit from his deceased mother.

The beauty of this book is that it is a well written, emotional story without being too overly schmultzy and sentimental.

4/5 stars

Linda, I agree with you on For One More Day. This was a well written story without being over the top. I read this a couple of years ago after I read The Five People You Meet in Heaven which I really enjoyed.

#170: OK, I will have to trust you that the book is not overly schmaltzy and sentimental. I will give it a try!

The Book Thief is NOTHING like The Road

The Book Thief has promise and love and hope implied..
The Road is horror after horror after evil horror...

imho

ahem.

#173 - Awe, mckait......I felt there was hope implied at the end of The Road. Now I'm hoping that I didn't misconstrue the ending.

I have The Book Thief on hold at the library. Seems many people are reading it and I am looking forward to as well.

Today began The Book Thief audio version. Initially, I am struggling to keep up with Death's beginning monologue - the reader is very dramatic and compelling, but if I was looking at print, I think I would be skimming or rereading - not sure which - to get to the story.

Impossible to be certain, of course, but does anyone who so lauded and loved it think it will be diminished in audio?

orangeena
I've never listened to an audio book. But I can say that in explaining the book to people, when I say the narrator is death, they look at me like I'm very weird.

In reading the book, I had the sense that the voice of death was not macabre, but he was simply doing his job and commenting on what he witnessed.

>173 mckait: "A-men" to what McKait said.

>175 orangeena: I felt a little impatient with the Death narration at first, if I recall. It grew on me (if that is an appropriate expression to use regarding Death). In fact, it grew on me alot. I would think a dramatic reading would only add to the impact. But I'm just guessing. Maybe there are others who have experienced the book in both written and audio formats.

>175 orangeena: maybe (since soooo many people have read the book and loved it) you should try the print version if the audiobook is not doing it for you. Of course, we can't all have identical reactions to a book so maybe it's just not your type of book. I still think you should try reading it instead of listening to it though!

I'm definitely not abandoning The Book Thief at this point. It is too early to tell if the story will draw me in or not, but I sense the uniqueness of the narration takes a different level of understanding. I find a good reading on an audiobook can give just as much appreciation and enjoyment as book-in-hand.
It may just be as >175 orangeena: says - impatience that I might have had anyway. We shall see.

Hi Linda - I'm really enjoying your threads and have finally caught up on all the posts. I've already read many of the great books that you are posting about and have added Hana's Suitcase and Miss Hickory to my tbr list.
An age ago you were discussing fairytale retellings and two good ones that I recently read (both YA) were A curse as dark as gold, a retelling of Rumpelstilskin and Impossible, based on the Scarborough Fair song.
Now that you've 'done' the Newberry, you might like to consider reading winners or shortlist of the Michael L. Printz Award which is for YA books or the Phoenix Award books which are for childrens & YA books that never won an award initially but 20 years later have stood up to the test of time. Both awards are international for English language books and are on wikipedia. The Phoenix Award List is quite impressive.

Zusak is one of my favourite writers, I can't wait to see what he comes up with next as it's been quite a while since The Book Thief first came out in Australia/New Zealand.

edit to fix touchstone on Impossible

avatiakh
Thank you very much for recommending A Curse as dark as Gold and Impossible. Now, I want to rush to the library tomorrow to see if I can get these two books.

One of the most wonderful things about LT is that it opens avenues previously not traveled. I'm glad to learn of the Micahel L. Printz Award and the Phoenix Award.... Now, I must do a search.

I fear you have fanned the fires of my book obsession... And, I thank you for it.

Thanks for stopping by. I'll be sure to check your thread.

#181: I fear you have fanned the fires of my book obsession.

Like you (along with the rest of us) need any help!

Stasia

You have me on that one!!!! I'm smiling!

I'm trying to find the author of Impossible. I'm not sure the touchstone is providing the correct YA book.

I've fixed the touchstone - Impossible is by Nancy Werlin.

Forgot to add that Sally Gardner's The Red Necklace has been on my tbr list for a while. The sequel has just come ou in the UK - The Silver Blade. I really liked her I, Coriander and her adorable picturebook The Fairy Catalogue.

Thanks! Much appreciated.

Congrats on reaching 75!!!!

By the way though I agree that The Road and The Book Thief are nothing alike, I do believe that there is a glimmer of hope in The Road. It is more subtle and not as assured as the hope The Book Thief offers but its there all the same.

The Old Man and The Sea by Ernest Hemingway

Elderly, unlucky, but ever hopeful Cuban fisherman Santiago battles the fish of all fish alone in the Gulf Stream.

As Santiago's hands are lashed, his throat parched and his sleep deprived body rallies yet one more day, one more hour and one more minute to win the fight with the mighty marlin, Hemingway's images pack a punch as strong as the resolve of the old man to win the final fight.

After 84 days of failure to catch a fish, Santiago's luck changes on day 85. Luck, however, is as fleetingly fast as the flying fish that smack the surface, as fleeting as the hot noon day sun that turns bone chillingly cold at night and as fickle as one fish or person believing he is the biggest and best, only to find there is yet another bigger than he.

The search for the biggest, the best, and the agonizing struggle to win the prize is akin to Hemingway's final days in that all the machismo and bravado did not net him a happy, fulfilled life. In the end, he was defeated and washed ashore.

#187 - But did you like it? Personally, this is my least favourite of Hemingway's novels (and I know that's going against a very large tide of opinion!).

Peter

The answer is NO! In saying this I am aware that he is labeled a genius, a marvelous writer, one of the best, etc. But, truly, I cannot say I would venture to read another one of his books.

I paid .10 for this at my local library sale table. The last time I read Hemingway was either in high school or college under duress.

Linda, I like Hemingway's (fictionalized) autobiographical works far more than his other novels. If you haven't read one of those yet, then perhaps try just one before giving up on him completely! A Movable Feast (published posthumously) about his life in Paris in the '20s is by far my favourite. Then, there is the excellent Under Kilimanjaro about his last Kenyan safari in '53-'54 - the 7th and perhaps last of his posthumously published works.

#187 Cough, cough, weeze (i'm shewing away the dust you left in your wake) Yippee for 79 Books!

Linda, I couldn't agree with you more regarding Hemingway. He lost me at For Whom the Bell Tolls. He is said to be a master but I haven't want to pick up another of his novels. petermc's suggestions sound different and I'll look them up.

I wouldn't say I like Hemingway in general. Hated The Snows of Kilimanjaro which was the first thing I read by him. But The Old Man and the Sea I must say I quite enjoyed! I think you misread the book's ending. This is a classic the-journey-not-the-destination conclusion. Throughout the book the old man thought he wanted to catch a big fish for the sake ofthe fish itself. The fish was the prize. But after the sharks eat the carcass of the fish he realizes this is not the case. The fish in itself doesn't really matter. What matters is that he put himself to the test and found he was strong enough to do it - thus he does not feel like a useless old man anymore. Furthermore when he returns he sees that Manolin missed him and was worried about him - someone cares for him. Not only that, but the boy admires him and wants to learn from him. Which means that his talent as a fisherman will not go to waste but he can teach the boy to be a good fisherman - in this way he will live through the boy even when he is gone. He now has a purpose, a task ahead. It is not just that stupid fish for him anymore. Now he can be useful to someone. That is why the novel ends on such a positive, hopeful note.

"All of the old man's noble qualities and, more important, the lessons he draws from his experience, will be passed on to the boy, which means the fisherman's life will continue on, in some form, even after his death. The promise of triumph and regeneration is supported by the closing image of the book. For the third time, Santiago returns to his dream of the lions at play on the African beaches. As an image that recalls the old man's youth, the lions suggest the circularity of life. (...) Santiago reflects that “a man can be destroyed but not defeated.” The destruction of the marlin is not a defeat for Santiago; rather, it leads to his redemption. (...)When Santiago says, “Fishing kills me exactly as it keeps me alive,” he is pointing, once again, to the vast, necessary, and ever-shifting tension that exists between loss and gain, triumph and defeat, life and death.

I've just noticed that you've made it past 75 - wow and congratulations!

#193...Thanks flissp. This group is very inspiring and motivating...If I could be motivated similarly to shed some pounds, I'd be paper thin.

#192..Eliza..Thanks for your powerful insights. Now, I'm looking at the book in a totally different way....

#191..Lynda..Speaking of coughing, the pollen count here in NE Pennsylvania is terrible. I'm not usually prone to allergies and I'm having a hard time breathing. The coughing continues into the night...ugh. I pray for rain to wash the earth and calm down the nasty stuff floating in the air. Each morning my car is covered with the stuff.

#190Peter...Thanks, as always, for stopping by. I will give Hemingway another try based on your recommendations. And, I hope those two beautiful little boys are doing well!

I enjoyed The Old Man and the Sea and I'm glad that ELiza explained it so well. I thought it was uplifting and sad. I struggled through some of For Whom the Bell Tolls but I loved it in the end. I was disappointed when it ended. That is one of the reasons I try to finish books.

Congrats on your 75!

I am another who dislikes Hemingway - probably because both my mother and the schools I attended were constantly shoving him down my throat. The Old Man and the Sea is a particular un-favorite of mine. If you offered me a hundred dollars to read it again, I would not do it. (Might consider doing it for 5K, but I'd have to think about it for a while.)

I did a literary comparison of The Old Man and the Sea and Life of Pi for my A-Level coursework (quite a big deal!).

I found that I appreciated TOMatS a lot more when I was analysing its structure, language, plot, meaning etc. I don't think I ever ended up seeing it as the kind of book I would want to read in my spare time, I did appreciate it for its literary merits.

luna...
I would love to read your paper....Would you mind sending it to me as an attachment on my email?

I'll see if I can track it down, it should be at my mum's somewhere. It was 5 years since I did A-levels though! I'm sure its around somewhere as I did reasonably well with it I think (although saying that might be bigging myself up a little bit!!!)

I did get an A though (top grade) for the overall A-level and the coursework was.......30% of the overall grade I think.

I'll have a look for it and get back to you. You might have a wait but I'll do my best to track it down!

I completely overlooked the fact that you have past the 75-book mark! Congratulations! Keep up the good reading and the great reviews.

Congrats on hitting 75 books! Not that I'm surprised it is this early... :)

WOW Linda--75!! Congratulations.

Re Hemingway, I am one who had to read several of his works in school years ago. I did not care for him then, and I have no desire to reread him. There are some authors/books that I read in school and disliked, but which I would like to reread, since I think I could appreciate them with maturity. Hemingway is not one of those.

Add my congratulations to the rest regarding your 75th book of the year!

Mine too!!

Belated Congratulations on reaching #75!!!

On Hemingway, The Old man and the Sea is the only Hemingway I did ever read, long time ago for school. I don't remeber it exactly, but I do know I liked it back then. It is on my list to re-read some day.

Anita

Linda - I've been so mesmerized by your great reviews this year that I've completely ignored your ever increasing numbers. Congrats on passing #75. I'm pretty sure that at least half of these have ended up on my TBR list. Must go read. . .

Seems everyone has had the same reaction - somehow we were all so immersed in your thoughtful reading that we failed to notice you'd hit the target in the first third of the year! Well done - sounded like there are some real keepers in there too.

Thanks to all for your very kind comments!

Congrats on 75 Linda! You've had some great ones!

#175: orangeena, Death as a narrator just has to have an unusual voice...it's Death, after all. So have patience with the narration until you get the hang of it. The book will reward you enormously once you are past that first intro. I can't speak to the audio version, however, as I read it.

Whisp, what a year you've been having. I think the thing which makes it so much fun to visit with you here is that it's obvious that you are having a whale of a time with your readings. Your enthusiasm is infectious!

Just have to chime in with my congratulations as well!

#194 - "I hope those two beautiful little boys are doing well"

I think you meant to write "those two little horrors" ;)

The horrors, I mean, boys, are well, and we all send our congratulations on your having surpassed the 75!!! Extrapolating, we are expecting you to read at least 240 books this year :)

Add my congratulations to the chorus! Looking forward to many more awesome reviews.

I would like to offer my thanks as well, on two different accounts Whisper. First for finishing the challenge 8 months sooner than the rest of us! and second, for always being at the "hottest topic" of our group every time I check the Hot Topics section! :D

>212 petermc: also thanks petermc!Ah, the joy of discovering a new word!! Thank you for the "extrapolating" It's been a long time since I've had that feeling of "hmmm what a nice-sounding word! I wonder what it means!":)

Huzzah! Just dropping in to offer congratulations as well! :)

girlunderglass
I'm ignorant, what is the "hottest topic" and where can I find "Hot Topics?"

Thanks to all for stopping by...much appreciate your nice comments.

Congratulations, Whisper!

"Hot topics" is a new LT feature. You'll find it near the top left hand side of the page, under the "Home" tab as follows:

The World
All topics
Hot topics

217- thanks for the tip--- I too did not know that was there. See that's my 'learned something new' for today.

240 book this year?! LOL Did Peter uncover your true goal?

Susan..
Nah, Peter is simply confusing me with you and Stasia.

Well, Whisper1, I am sorry you didn't like The Old Man and the Sea but I am not surprised. Papa Hemingway is a little dark and you are just not at all dark. So, even that title isn't one of his particularly dark ones, I can see that it just didn't jive for you. I think Peter might be onto something. While I like all of Hemingway, A Moveable Feast is a good thing to try. It has a lot about books and authors and writing in it. It's worth a try. if you don't like that one, well toss the Hemingway.

Congrats on the total, Whisper! That's great. What is your internal goal for the year, if I may be so bold as to ask?

Some time, perhaps in the 22nd century when you don't have anything around that seems to interest you, some of Hemingway's short stories might engage you. I particularly enjoyed "The Short Happy Life of Frances Macomber". I agree, though, that he's not for all tastes. Seems to be one of those lightning-rod types--you either love him or can't abide him.

I Am The Messenger by Markus Zusak

I found this book on the threads of Dianestm, Alcottacre and Torontoc.

19 year old cab driver Ed Kennedy lacks purpose, direction and motivation. His life consists of three friends, a smelly dog, a dead beat job, an argumentative relationship with his mother and monotonous card games with his small group of buddies.

Life changes when he witnesses a bank robbery and inadvertently stops the robber which then in turn sets a domino like string of events in place.

Originally feeling like he is never dealing with a full deck and is missing the meaning and purpose of life, he is suddenly thrust into days and nights of decision making when he systematically receives playing cards with names and/or addresses.

As he searches for the clues regarding the meaning of the cards, his discovery leads him to people needing assistance.

Some of the stories resulting from his adventures are heartbreaking and touching.

While I enjoyed this book, I found it meandered too much for my liking. The story line was confusing at times and too often I went back to read passages that simply didn't make sense.

While some of the stories of the people he helped brought tears, for the most part I grew frustrated at the lack of direction and sentences that seemed to go no where. The ending was a disappointment.

2.5 stars

I Am The Messenger sounds a little disappointing, especially after reading The Book Thief which was a powerful, well-written work. I think I'll pass on this one.

ETA I hope your next read is better, Linda!

Lorie
Please don't let my disappointment sway you. Stasia and others really liked this book. You may want to check their comments before passing it by.

In my opinion, it wasn't as well-written as The Book Thief, but I also think that since I liked the Book Thief so much, it would be difficult to follow such a powerful story.

#223: I am sorry the book was not better for you. I hope your next read is better!

Linda, sorry you didn't enjoy I am the Messenger very much. I am looking forward to reading The Book Thief when I can get my hands on it and I will be interested to see if I find this one as powerful as you did.

Belated congratulations on hitting 75 (or rather over 75) :), Miss Linda!

Catey

whoa - I missed that too -- my brain doesn't usually look at the numbers-- i'm focusing on titles. but anyway Congratulations!!

I am the Messenger - 2.5 stars!
Am I mistaken or is this the first time you've rated a book? If so, I think it's a great idea, as it makes your feelings about it clearer to us :)

#228 and 229

Hi Catey and Tina

thanks!

Eliza
I'm not sure, but I think I usually rate a 5 to a book I think outstanding. But am hesitate to rate negatively. I think the 2.5 was indicative of the feeling that I loved The Book Thief and thus had so looked forward to another wonderful tale by the same author.

I think I'm in the minority regarding I am the Messenger because a lot of people really did like it.

Congrats on your accomplishment, Linda!

I hate giving negs too, Linda. But I feel like I have to be honest to anyone reading my thoughts. The last one I read was so bad.. I rewrote the review 4-5 times to try to temper my negativity, lol. I had to post the review on Amazon, and didn't want to beat up the author too much in case she happened on it. But I did want to make sure it was evident that I didn't find any redeeming qualities in the book. :P

I dunno, mckait and Linda....I LIKE reading a blistering "I hated this foul smelling piece of excrement" review. You really know where you stand with it then.

True... lol..
but for instance I HAAATED Edgar Sawtelle.

Lots liked it..

and I don't want to be too hard on the author... but sometimes....
"I hated this foul smelling piece of excrement" does fill the bill.

Let me jump right on that bandwagon to push Edgar Sawtelle over the cliff...........HORRID!!!

A member of my book club mentioned it for next year. I said I am happy for all to read whatever they desire, but I will not reread for love nor money.....well, maybe lots and lots and lots of money.

It looks like I need to take Edgar Sawtelle off the tbr pile...

or be mobbed by an angry crowd.....

I really liked The Story of Edgar Sawtelle. *runs off to hide from the angry mob* :o)

*balancing on the fence about reading Edgar Sawtelle*

*tiptoes up to cal and considers tipping her just a wee bit*

*reconsiders and just shows her *

You all are so funny. It is great to laugh at the end of a long day. The end of the academic semester means too much work and lots of stress. My reading will slow considerably this month and in June because I help the students pull together the yearbook. We are a tad behind, but I know we will make the deadline...lots of extra hours though.

mckait, I value your opinions of books. That is one of the main reasons I sit on the fence. Maybe if someone gives me a copy or the library has it on the display next to the check out I may read it but I probably wouldn't look for it.

Aww, how nice ! Thank you:) I am very happy that I never bought it.. I read my co-worker, Barb's, copy :P
or most of it...

Its very interesting your take on I am Messenger. I noticed many people especially on LT say that they preferred it to The Book Thief.

Hi Trish
I know, I am in the minority.

I hope all is well with you!

I was just checking out your list of titles and tow jumped at me: The Story of Mankind and Jacob Have I Loved. I homeschool my son and we're sort of following The Well Trained Mind, basically we're doing a Classical education. Anyway, I'm using the former as one of our history spines. It was a happy accident that I discovered it at the library and I really like it. The latter was/is one of my favorite YA reads from many moons ago. I may revisit this one.

browngirl
Thanks for stopping by. Did you know that Stasia (Alcottacre) homeschools her daughters? I am in awe of those of you who attempt this incredible feat!

i think i knew that. i knew, at least, there was someone else who mentioned it in the group.

it's really no big deal. well, some days it seems to be an incredible feat, lol.

You deserve a lot of credit!

Methinks it is time for a new thread, Linda!

#249 browngirl, thanks for those recommendations. Even though my son attends public school, I see no reason not to look into it and supplement his education in this manner.

Absoutely Carmenere! The Well Trained Mind can definitely be useful for parents whose children attend traditional schools. There are lots of things that can be adapted to reinforcement use instead of a full on curriculum.

Here's a wave "hallo" as I haven't checked in in a bit!

(and I've never heard of Edgar Sawtelle - looks like it's encouraging strong feelings!)

hallo back to you fliss.

My new thread is here:

http://www.librarything.com/topic/64108