karspeak's 1010!
Talk 1010 Category Challenge
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1karspeak
Hi, all, I'm a little late joining up, but I'm excited to be a part of this group! I'll be reading 1 book in Category 1, 2 in Category 2, etc. I will allow some overlap, but I'll complete at least 50 books this year, and reduce my TBR pile to 50 (from 70), as well! Please drop by anytime...
1.A Hefty Tome (1/1) 3/6/10
2.Bipolar Disorder (2/2) 5/30/10
3.New (to Me) Books by Familiar Authors (3/3) 10/25/10
4.Books about Europe (3/4)12/23/10
5.Oldest Books from TBR Pile (5/5) 12/5/10
6.Book Club Reads (6/6) 11/9/10
7.Sci-Fi or Fantasy (7/7) 10/19/10
8. Recs from LT (7/8)
9. Nonfiction (5/9)
10. Anything Goes (4/10)
Books Read in 2010: 44
TBR Pile: 46
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8. Recs from LT (7/8)
9. Nonfiction (5/9)
10. Anything Goes (4/10)
Books Read in 2010: 44
TBR Pile: 46
2karspeak
Books to date:
1. The Hunger Games (Sci-Fi or Fantasy)
An entertaining, fast-paced YA dystopic novel. A fun way to start off the year.
2. Loving Frank (Book Club Selection)
"Loving Frank is a work of fiction based on events relating to the love affair of the brilliant and controversial architect Frank Lloyd Wright and one of his clients, Mamah Borthwick Cheney. This book portrays the period from 1907 to 1914, during which the Wright/Cheney affair flourished." I quite disliked this historical fiction novel. Although the basic facts of the book are true, I found the author's portrayal of Mamah Cheney's personality unbelievable and speculative, and I got tired of Mamah's whining about missing her children and becoming a societal pariah. Many women in my book club were outraged by Mamah's abandonment of her children, but that was not so shocking to me. This book will provoke discussion, but it is not satisfying in its own right.
3. An Unquiet Mind (Bipolar Disorder)
I read this because I have a family member with bipolar disorder. This memoir is very well written and engaging, but I did not gain much new insight into bipolar disorder. But it was a surprisingly enjoyable read.
4. The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao (Anything Goes)
This novel spans 3 generations of a Dominican family who eventually immigrate to the US. It involves a curse and the family dealing with the fall-out of Trujillo's grisly regime. The main character is the sweet, smart, obese and incredibly nerdy Oscar who is in search of amor.
This novel has one of the most unique narrative voices of any book I've ever read. It has Dominican street slang, directly addresses the reader, and lots of sci-fi/fantasy/pop culture references. The book jumps back and forth between various generations and slowly weaves together. The plot was disappointing to me in the end, however, and while I loved Oscar's poignant character, I didn't see how his life had been so wondrous. I wish I had read this book before I visited the DR (Dominican Republic) last year, since it really brings their culture and brutal history to life.
5. The Stars my Destination (Sci-Fi)
This 1950's sci-fi novel reads very easily and is very creative and well-written. Amazing that it is not dated AT ALL. I enjoyed it very much and will seek out Bester's first sci-fi novel, which won the first ever Hugo award.
1. The Hunger Games (Sci-Fi or Fantasy)
An entertaining, fast-paced YA dystopic novel. A fun way to start off the year.
2. Loving Frank (Book Club Selection)
"Loving Frank is a work of fiction based on events relating to the love affair of the brilliant and controversial architect Frank Lloyd Wright and one of his clients, Mamah Borthwick Cheney. This book portrays the period from 1907 to 1914, during which the Wright/Cheney affair flourished." I quite disliked this historical fiction novel. Although the basic facts of the book are true, I found the author's portrayal of Mamah Cheney's personality unbelievable and speculative, and I got tired of Mamah's whining about missing her children and becoming a societal pariah. Many women in my book club were outraged by Mamah's abandonment of her children, but that was not so shocking to me. This book will provoke discussion, but it is not satisfying in its own right.
3. An Unquiet Mind (Bipolar Disorder)
I read this because I have a family member with bipolar disorder. This memoir is very well written and engaging, but I did not gain much new insight into bipolar disorder. But it was a surprisingly enjoyable read.
4. The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao (Anything Goes)
This novel spans 3 generations of a Dominican family who eventually immigrate to the US. It involves a curse and the family dealing with the fall-out of Trujillo's grisly regime. The main character is the sweet, smart, obese and incredibly nerdy Oscar who is in search of amor.
This novel has one of the most unique narrative voices of any book I've ever read. It has Dominican street slang, directly addresses the reader, and lots of sci-fi/fantasy/pop culture references. The book jumps back and forth between various generations and slowly weaves together. The plot was disappointing to me in the end, however, and while I loved Oscar's poignant character, I didn't see how his life had been so wondrous. I wish I had read this book before I visited the DR (Dominican Republic) last year, since it really brings their culture and brutal history to life.
5. The Stars my Destination (Sci-Fi)
This 1950's sci-fi novel reads very easily and is very creative and well-written. Amazing that it is not dated AT ALL. I enjoyed it very much and will seek out Bester's first sci-fi novel, which won the first ever Hugo award.
3karspeak
6. The Things They Carried (Book Club Selection)
A finalist for the 1990 Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Critics Circle Award, this novel on the Vietnam War is really an interesting mix of memoir, novel, and a collection of short stories. The author even explains his intentional mix of fact and fiction, which he says helps him to better tell the truth of the war and to show the ambiguity and craziness of war. My favorite aspect of the novel was the depiction of the American soldiers--their terror, bravado, comradeship, humor, etc. O'Brien did such an amazing job exploring these emotions, this novel really stands head and shoulders above other war novels focusing on these themes. A very well-written and memorable novel, although I don't enjoy reading about Vietnam, in particular.
A finalist for the 1990 Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Critics Circle Award, this novel on the Vietnam War is really an interesting mix of memoir, novel, and a collection of short stories. The author even explains his intentional mix of fact and fiction, which he says helps him to better tell the truth of the war and to show the ambiguity and craziness of war. My favorite aspect of the novel was the depiction of the American soldiers--their terror, bravado, comradeship, humor, etc. O'Brien did such an amazing job exploring these emotions, this novel really stands head and shoulders above other war novels focusing on these themes. A very well-written and memorable novel, although I don't enjoy reading about Vietnam, in particular.
4karspeak
7. Middlemarch (A Hefty Tome)
I greatly enjoyed this 19th century English novel. The writing was wonderful, the plot was well-constructed, various religious/poltical/historical issues were included in the plot, and its themes were consistently developed throughout the book. But, above all, I found Eliot's (Evans') characterizations and insight into those characters masterful. Often her observations of her character's subtle motives and behavior made me see my own beliefs and actions in a different light. She's an amazing author with a particular gift for dissecting humanity.
I greatly enjoyed this 19th century English novel. The writing was wonderful, the plot was well-constructed, various religious/poltical/historical issues were included in the plot, and its themes were consistently developed throughout the book. But, above all, I found Eliot's (Evans') characterizations and insight into those characters masterful. Often her observations of her character's subtle motives and behavior made me see my own beliefs and actions in a different light. She's an amazing author with a particular gift for dissecting humanity.
5karspeak
8. Culture Shock! Germany (Books About Europe)
There's a small chance I may move to Germany in the next few years, so... Culture Shock! Germany is a solid overview of German culture, customs, etiquette, and practical tips, such as how to rent an apartment. I liked Culture Shock! Korea better (there is a whole Culture Shock series, as you may have gathered), but the Germany book did get the job done.
There's a small chance I may move to Germany in the next few years, so... Culture Shock! Germany is a solid overview of German culture, customs, etiquette, and practical tips, such as how to rent an apartment. I liked Culture Shock! Korea better (there is a whole Culture Shock series, as you may have gathered), but the Germany book did get the job done.
6karspeak
9. Escape (Book Club Selection)
"I was born into a radical polygamist cult. At eighteen, I became the fourth wife of a fifty-year-old man. I had eight children in fifteen years." This is a very dramatic first-hand account of a woman's life inside in the radical sect the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS). I found it riveting, in a can't-stop-watching-the-train-wreck kind of way. It was also interesting from a social/group psychology perspective. Very sad to see how the children suffered, though.
"I was born into a radical polygamist cult. At eighteen, I became the fourth wife of a fifty-year-old man. I had eight children in fifteen years." This is a very dramatic first-hand account of a woman's life inside in the radical sect the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS). I found it riveting, in a can't-stop-watching-the-train-wreck kind of way. It was also interesting from a social/group psychology perspective. Very sad to see how the children suffered, though.
7karspeak
10. Obernewtyn (Sci-Fi/Fantasy)
I had heard this mentioned in passing on LT as a YA dystopic book. Sounded right up my alley for light entertainment. Alas, I found it to be badly written with a weak plot. I definitely do NOT recommend this book. Try The Hunger Games or Uglies instead.
I had heard this mentioned in passing on LT as a YA dystopic book. Sounded right up my alley for light entertainment. Alas, I found it to be badly written with a weak plot. I definitely do NOT recommend this book. Try The Hunger Games or Uglies instead.
8cmbohn
Welcome to the challenge. Thanks for your thoughts on Obernewtyn. I had wondered about it, since I really enjoyed The Hunger Games. I also recommend Unwind - very creepy dystopian teen fiction.
10karspeak
11. Stones Into Schools (Nonfiction)
I loved Three Cups of Tea and read it very quickly. This sequel, of sorts, was a much slower read for me, and I didn't enjoy it as much. However, it was a very good follow-up to Three Cups of Tea. Mortenson writes in the first person this time, and he goes into detail about the extrordinary lengths to which his co-workers go to build schools in remote areas. And he covers the Pakistani earthquake, and some of his interactions with the US military, etc, etc. He also talks about the Khirgiz people, who are SO remote that they make the other peoples of Pakistan and Afghanistan sound like they live 5 minutes up the road. If you only plan to read one of Mortenson's books, I would recommend Three Cups of Tea. But Stones into Schools is interesting, as well.
I loved Three Cups of Tea and read it very quickly. This sequel, of sorts, was a much slower read for me, and I didn't enjoy it as much. However, it was a very good follow-up to Three Cups of Tea. Mortenson writes in the first person this time, and he goes into detail about the extrordinary lengths to which his co-workers go to build schools in remote areas. And he covers the Pakistani earthquake, and some of his interactions with the US military, etc, etc. He also talks about the Khirgiz people, who are SO remote that they make the other peoples of Pakistan and Afghanistan sound like they live 5 minutes up the road. If you only plan to read one of Mortenson's books, I would recommend Three Cups of Tea. But Stones into Schools is interesting, as well.
11karspeak
12. The Earth Hums in B Flat (LT Rec)
An enjoyable read. This novel is set in Wales after the Second World War. A young girl tries to solve a mystery in her village and, at the same time, tries to figure out the confusing ways of adults, including her own family's secret past. This novel reminded me quite a bit of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, except it's a young girl rather than an autistic boy.
An enjoyable read. This novel is set in Wales after the Second World War. A young girl tries to solve a mystery in her village and, at the same time, tries to figure out the confusing ways of adults, including her own family's secret past. This novel reminded me quite a bit of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, except it's a young girl rather than an autistic boy.
12karspeak
13. Fantastic Mr. Fox (Anything Goes)
I'd never read this Roald Dahl book, much to a friend of mine's dismay. In junior high, she checked the book out so many times from the library that the librarian finally insisted she not check it out anymore until the next school year! I found it very cute, very short, and the writing pitch perfect. A great book to read to young elementary kids before bed, I think. I'll have to buy a copy for when my kids are a few years older...
I'd never read this Roald Dahl book, much to a friend of mine's dismay. In junior high, she checked the book out so many times from the library that the librarian finally insisted she not check it out anymore until the next school year! I found it very cute, very short, and the writing pitch perfect. A great book to read to young elementary kids before bed, I think. I'll have to buy a copy for when my kids are a few years older...
13karspeak
14. Silver Spoon Kids (Nonfiction)
I'm not usually a fan of parenting books. This, however, was very good. It's a parenting book specifically on the topic of money. The co-authors were extremely knowledgeable, informative, and good communicators. I would recommend this book for any middle income family or above. I found the sections on giving an allowance and how to develop philanthropic ideals in your children particularly enlightening.
I'm not usually a fan of parenting books. This, however, was very good. It's a parenting book specifically on the topic of money. The co-authors were extremely knowledgeable, informative, and good communicators. I would recommend this book for any middle income family or above. I found the sections on giving an allowance and how to develop philanthropic ideals in your children particularly enlightening.
14karspeak
15. Grimspace (LT Rec)
I enjoy space-action books sometimes as light entertainment, if they're well-written. Unfortunately this one was not. It started off well with a good plot, likable characters, fast-paced action, but then the author just couldn't keep it together. Not recommended.
I enjoy space-action books sometimes as light entertainment, if they're well-written. Unfortunately this one was not. It started off well with a good plot, likable characters, fast-paced action, but then the author just couldn't keep it together. Not recommended.
15lkernagh
The Earth Hums in B Flat sounds interesting and I must say, while I have yet to read the book, I did enjoy the movie adaptation of Fantastic Mr. Fox!
16karspeak
Apparently Fantastic Mr. Fox was one of director Wes Anderson's absolute favorite books as a child. I just got the DVD yesterday in the mail and am looking forward to it!
17karspeak
16. Suite Francaise (Book Club Selection)
I thought this was very good, very well written. The author was killed (or died?) at Auschwitz, so she only completed 2 of the 5 planned parts. If completed, it would have been over 1,000 pages. But she was writing a novel about France during WWII while living through it herself. She particularly liked to dwell on the hypocrisy of the rich and the religious during a crisis. Her depictions of the French countryside were lovely. The appendices include portions of her journal, in which she was carefully and thoroughly planning out the novel. It was wonderful to see the thoughts and beliefs she was putting into her writing, such as the following quote:
"What lives on: 1. our humble day-to-day lives; 2. art; 3. God."
The most poignant (for me) quote from her journal, which of course applies to Suite Francaise:
"I think that what gives War and Peace the expansion Forster talks about, is quite simply the fact that in Tolstoy's mind, War and Peace is only the first volume that was to be followed by The Decembrists, but what he did unconsciously (perhaps, for naturally I really don't know, I'm imagining), ... the book itself must give the impression of only being one episode...which is really what is happening in our times, as in all times of course."
I thought this was very good, very well written. The author was killed (or died?) at Auschwitz, so she only completed 2 of the 5 planned parts. If completed, it would have been over 1,000 pages. But she was writing a novel about France during WWII while living through it herself. She particularly liked to dwell on the hypocrisy of the rich and the religious during a crisis. Her depictions of the French countryside were lovely. The appendices include portions of her journal, in which she was carefully and thoroughly planning out the novel. It was wonderful to see the thoughts and beliefs she was putting into her writing, such as the following quote:
"What lives on: 1. our humble day-to-day lives; 2. art; 3. God."
The most poignant (for me) quote from her journal, which of course applies to Suite Francaise:
"I think that what gives War and Peace the expansion Forster talks about, is quite simply the fact that in Tolstoy's mind, War and Peace is only the first volume that was to be followed by The Decembrists, but what he did unconsciously (perhaps, for naturally I really don't know, I'm imagining), ... the book itself must give the impression of only being one episode...which is really what is happening in our times, as in all times of course."
18karspeak
17. Unwind (LT Recs)
Decent but not great YA dystopic novel. The pace of action was good, and the main concept behind the book was good, but it gets a little too Indiana Jones-ish at the end, and the plot got a bit weak. Plot-wise, it's like Never Let Me Go for a young teen audience, only not as well written.
Decent but not great YA dystopic novel. The pace of action was good, and the main concept behind the book was good, but it gets a little too Indiana Jones-ish at the end, and the plot got a bit weak. Plot-wise, it's like Never Let Me Go for a young teen audience, only not as well written.
19karspeak
18. Waste and Want (Nonfiction)
This book is a detailed history of America's relationship with wastefulness. It begins with zero waste from the 1600s to the 1800s, as people patched clothes instead of throwing them out, sold rags and bones to peddlers who came to the door (rags were used to make paper back then), gave food scraps to animals or sold them to swill kids who came to the door, etc. At the end of the 1900s, industrialization led to a rapid rise in non-recycled waste, and the trend continues to the present, obviously.
This was not a riveting book, and there were no "aha!" moments, even for someone quite interested in environmental issues. The historical details were the main focus of the book, and I found them mildly interesting. But since consumerism is such a major issue for the U.S., I am glad I read this book to learn a little more about the history of this issue. But Waste and Want definitely is NOT a page-turner.
This book is a detailed history of America's relationship with wastefulness. It begins with zero waste from the 1600s to the 1800s, as people patched clothes instead of throwing them out, sold rags and bones to peddlers who came to the door (rags were used to make paper back then), gave food scraps to animals or sold them to swill kids who came to the door, etc. At the end of the 1900s, industrialization led to a rapid rise in non-recycled waste, and the trend continues to the present, obviously.
This was not a riveting book, and there were no "aha!" moments, even for someone quite interested in environmental issues. The historical details were the main focus of the book, and I found them mildly interesting. But since consumerism is such a major issue for the U.S., I am glad I read this book to learn a little more about the history of this issue. But Waste and Want definitely is NOT a page-turner.
20karspeak
19. The Demolished Man (New Book from a Familiar Author)
Bester was awarded the first-ever Hugo award for this sci-fi novel. I found it to be fast-paced, creative, and entertaining. It was definitely plot, not character, driven, and Bester wove in a lot of Freudian-type psychology. It was a futuristic whodunnit with some telepaths thrown in to make things more complex. The lead detective was Columbo-like, only smarter and telepathic.
Bester was awarded the first-ever Hugo award for this sci-fi novel. I found it to be fast-paced, creative, and entertaining. It was definitely plot, not character, driven, and Bester wove in a lot of Freudian-type psychology. It was a futuristic whodunnit with some telepaths thrown in to make things more complex. The lead detective was Columbo-like, only smarter and telepathic.
21AHS-Wolfy
Having recently read The Stars My Destination, that's definately a book I intend to add to my collection soon.
22karspeak
Yes, I enjoyed both The Demolished Man and The Stars My Destination. His plots are very different from the same ol', same ol', which is my favorite thing about the sci-fi genre--that it has that potential, anyway.
20. Gourmet Rhapsody (New Book from a Familiar Author)
I had already read and enjoyed Barbery's The Elegance of the Hedgehog. I enjoyed Gourmet Rhapsody, as well. I would only recommend it if you are a foodie or really enjoy eating/food. Rhapsody did not have nearly as much philosophy woven in as Hedgehog, although it had similar themes and quite a few shared characters. Of the two, Hedgehog was my favorite.
20. Gourmet Rhapsody (New Book from a Familiar Author)
I had already read and enjoyed Barbery's The Elegance of the Hedgehog. I enjoyed Gourmet Rhapsody, as well. I would only recommend it if you are a foodie or really enjoy eating/food. Rhapsody did not have nearly as much philosophy woven in as Hedgehog, although it had similar themes and quite a few shared characters. Of the two, Hedgehog was my favorite.
23karspeak
21. Streetwise Spanish (Oldest Books from my TBR Pile)
This was an excellent improve-your-Spanish book, the best I've ever read. Recommended for intermediate or advanced Spanish speakers.
This was an excellent improve-your-Spanish book, the best I've ever read. Recommended for intermediate or advanced Spanish speakers.
24karspeak
22. Touched with Fire (Bipolar Disorder)
This book is about the link between manic-depressive illness and the artistic temperament. I found it quite informative, although a little long and a bit scholarly. It's amazing how many famous writers, artists, poets, or musicians had manic-depressive disorder: Herman Melville, Alfred Lord Tennyson, Lord Byron, Edgar Allen Poe, Virginia Woolfe, Henry James, Robert Schumann, Vincent VanGogh, to name just a few. I also learned that many individuals with manic-depressive disorder have certain periods of every year that are their worst times, such as September-October.
This book is about the link between manic-depressive illness and the artistic temperament. I found it quite informative, although a little long and a bit scholarly. It's amazing how many famous writers, artists, poets, or musicians had manic-depressive disorder: Herman Melville, Alfred Lord Tennyson, Lord Byron, Edgar Allen Poe, Virginia Woolfe, Henry James, Robert Schumann, Vincent VanGogh, to name just a few. I also learned that many individuals with manic-depressive disorder have certain periods of every year that are their worst times, such as September-October.
26karspeak
23. Frontal Lisp, Lateral Lisp (Anything Goes)
I read this book for professional development (I'm a speech pathologist, as you've probably guessed). This book is the Bible on how to correct a lisp. I wish I had read it sooner; it should be required reading in every speech therapy grad program.
I read this book for professional development (I'm a speech pathologist, as you've probably guessed). This book is the Bible on how to correct a lisp. I wish I had read it sooner; it should be required reading in every speech therapy grad program.
27karspeak
24. Talk to the Snail: Ten Commandments for Understanding the French (Books about Europe)
A very entertaining, tongue-in-cheek, and insightful look at French culture. The author can be quite down on the French at times, though, which might put some readers off.
A very entertaining, tongue-in-cheek, and insightful look at French culture. The author can be quite down on the French at times, though, which might put some readers off.
28karspeak
25. The Mayor of Casterbridge (Oldest Books from TBR List)
I enjoyed this classic quite a bit. I really enjoyed the author's insights into human nature and his depictions of rural England in the mid-1800s. And the plot kept me up reading late several nights, to find out what would happen next!
26. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (LT Recs)
I found the first 200 pages slow, then suddenly I was up reading until 3 am to finish it. I enjoyed this much-buzzed-about thriller. I thought the main female character was very interesting, and I liked that it is a Swedish book set in Sweden. I wasn't so crazy about the sicko-sexual parts, and thought it got a bit unbelievable or overly sensational after awhile. As a novel, it didn't blow me away, but it succeeded very well as a thriller.
I enjoyed this classic quite a bit. I really enjoyed the author's insights into human nature and his depictions of rural England in the mid-1800s. And the plot kept me up reading late several nights, to find out what would happen next!
26. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (LT Recs)
I found the first 200 pages slow, then suddenly I was up reading until 3 am to finish it. I enjoyed this much-buzzed-about thriller. I thought the main female character was very interesting, and I liked that it is a Swedish book set in Sweden. I wasn't so crazy about the sicko-sexual parts, and thought it got a bit unbelievable or overly sensational after awhile. As a novel, it didn't blow me away, but it succeeded very well as a thriller.
29karspeak
27. Silver Borne (Fantasy or Sci-Fi)
This is the 5th book in the Mercy Thompson series, and I had been eagerly looking forward to it. The Mercy Thompson series has been particularly fun, with a smart, independent heroine and some werewolves, etc, thrown in. And good writing and very fast-paced action from start to finish. Alas, this was the first book in the series that I found lacking. The heroine has gone gooey for the head werewolf, and now the whole book came off slightly... Harlequinish. And the plot wasn't very fresh. Very disappointing.
This is the 5th book in the Mercy Thompson series, and I had been eagerly looking forward to it. The Mercy Thompson series has been particularly fun, with a smart, independent heroine and some werewolves, etc, thrown in. And good writing and very fast-paced action from start to finish. Alas, this was the first book in the series that I found lacking. The heroine has gone gooey for the head werewolf, and now the whole book came off slightly... Harlequinish. And the plot wasn't very fresh. Very disappointing.
30karspeak
28. Spin (Fantasy or Sci-Fi)
Very good. It's a SF thriller mixed with a coming-of-age story, a love story, and some ecological and apocalyptic aspects. It feels like part novel, part sci-fi, and I really enjoyed that combination. One night the stars disappear from the sky... The plot held strong to the end, delivering one final twist in the last 40 pages. The characters were strong, as well. Recommended.
Very good. It's a SF thriller mixed with a coming-of-age story, a love story, and some ecological and apocalyptic aspects. It feels like part novel, part sci-fi, and I really enjoyed that combination. One night the stars disappear from the sky... The plot held strong to the end, delivering one final twist in the last 40 pages. The characters were strong, as well. Recommended.
32karspeak
One reviewer described Spin as 30% sci-fi and 70% general fiction. I'd probably say it was more like 50-50. Glad you enjoyed it, as well.
33karspeak
29. Oral-Motor Techniques in Articulation and Phonological Therapy (Anything Goes)
Another book for professional development.
Another book for professional development.
34pammab
Oral-Motor Techniques in Articulation and Phonological Therapy -- is that stuff like how to curl your tongue to make an English 'r' sound? Or exercises to get you to do it more easily? I had speech therapy as a kid, including threatening putting peanut butter on the roof of my mouth to strengthen up mouth muscles that had gone unused. ;)
35karspeak
Yep, it's exactly that kind of stuff! Always nice to learn some new tricks. Glad they didn't really stick peanut butter in your mouth, though!
36karspeak
30. Cards on the Table (LT Rec)
This was very intelligently crafted and enjoyable, definitely one of Agatha Christie's best, which is saying a lot. Various plot twists right through to the very end.
This was very intelligently crafted and enjoyable, definitely one of Agatha Christie's best, which is saying a lot. Various plot twists right through to the very end.
37karspeak
31. Half of a Yellow Sun (LT Rec)
This novel, which has already been much discussed on LT, is set during the Biafran War in Nigeria in the 1960s. You experience the war through the lives of 5 characters whose lives are intertwined, all of whom are Igbo (the group who ultimately loses the war). As the war grinds on, it becomes painful to read about the people (particularly the children) starving, since all of the major countries effectively deny aid to the Igbo people. This was very well-written, but it was painful to read, so it turned into "work" for me. The award-winning author is a young Nigerian woman, and it will be interesting to see how her writing evolves over time.
This novel, which has already been much discussed on LT, is set during the Biafran War in Nigeria in the 1960s. You experience the war through the lives of 5 characters whose lives are intertwined, all of whom are Igbo (the group who ultimately loses the war). As the war grinds on, it becomes painful to read about the people (particularly the children) starving, since all of the major countries effectively deny aid to the Igbo people. This was very well-written, but it was painful to read, so it turned into "work" for me. The award-winning author is a young Nigerian woman, and it will be interesting to see how her writing evolves over time.
39karspeak
32. The Red Queen: Sex and the Evolution of Human Nature (Oldest Books from TBR Pile)
This was a very interesting and well-written book on why we humans are the way we are, from an evolutionary perspective. Why do men like "well-endowed" women? Why do men cheat on women and vice versa? Why did human intelligence evolve beyond that of the other primates (and it was not for hunting, talking, or tool using)? This book did shift my thinking on many of these issues, and what more can I ask of a nonfiction book than that? I found The Red Queen much more enlightening than Jared Diamond's The Third Chimpanzee.
I have really been dragging on my reading; I need to get cracking to keep up with this challenge!!
This was a very interesting and well-written book on why we humans are the way we are, from an evolutionary perspective. Why do men like "well-endowed" women? Why do men cheat on women and vice versa? Why did human intelligence evolve beyond that of the other primates (and it was not for hunting, talking, or tool using)? This book did shift my thinking on many of these issues, and what more can I ask of a nonfiction book than that? I found The Red Queen much more enlightening than Jared Diamond's The Third Chimpanzee.
I have really been dragging on my reading; I need to get cracking to keep up with this challenge!!
40paruline
@ 39: Good to know that you enjoyed it. It's been on my tbr pile forever. Time to bump it up I think!
41karspeak
>40 paruline:: I'd definitely recommend it!
33. Shards of Honor (Sci-Fi or Fantasy)
This was a very quick read and very entertaining space opera with above average world building and plot development. Unfortunately the cheese factor was also very high, which marred this otherwise fun read.
33. Shards of Honor (Sci-Fi or Fantasy)
This was a very quick read and very entertaining space opera with above average world building and plot development. Unfortunately the cheese factor was also very high, which marred this otherwise fun read.
42karspeak
34. The Stone Diaries (Book Club Selection)
This Pulitzer Prize winner follows the life of a woman from before her birth through her marriages, children, and grandchildren, through her death. What do we give up in a marriage, what is it like to age, how do our lives take shape, what role do we play in our own lives? At first I was ambivalent on this book, but by the end, I liked it. The last part of the book, when she is elderly and quite sick, was my favorite part. I thought the author's portrayal of aging was downright brilliant. This should make for a good discussion.
This Pulitzer Prize winner follows the life of a woman from before her birth through her marriages, children, and grandchildren, through her death. What do we give up in a marriage, what is it like to age, how do our lives take shape, what role do we play in our own lives? At first I was ambivalent on this book, but by the end, I liked it. The last part of the book, when she is elderly and quite sick, was my favorite part. I thought the author's portrayal of aging was downright brilliant. This should make for a good discussion.
43karspeak
35. The Solace of Open Spaces (Nonfiction)
This was a lovely collection of essays by a woman who visited Wyoming to make a documentary on sheep herders and then ended up staying. She "went native." She writes about the scenery and the cowboys and the sheep herders and the ranchers and the seasons and the animals and the rodeos and the Indians. Her writing kind of falls apart at the end; she should have stopped two thirds of the way through. Nevertheless, I found it such a good read overall that I would still recommend it. She seemed to perfectly capture the true spirit of the West, without romanticizing it.
This was a lovely collection of essays by a woman who visited Wyoming to make a documentary on sheep herders and then ended up staying. She "went native." She writes about the scenery and the cowboys and the sheep herders and the ranchers and the seasons and the animals and the rodeos and the Indians. Her writing kind of falls apart at the end; she should have stopped two thirds of the way through. Nevertheless, I found it such a good read overall that I would still recommend it. She seemed to perfectly capture the true spirit of the West, without romanticizing it.
44cmbohn
I read Shards of Honor this year too and I enjoyed it, but it wasn't great. Just pretty good. I heard that the series got better later, so I may give it another try.
45karspeak
Hi, cmbohn, I did like Warrior's Apprentice much better, and I think it is the sequel to Shards of Honor. It is the next generation of that family. It had a good plot, good pacing, and lots of derring-do. I'd recommend it. If you read any others that are better than Shards, let me know!
46karspeak
36. Germany: Understanding an Enigma (Books about Europe)
This was an excellent examination of the German psyche, specifically focusing on similarities and differences between German and American relationships, communication styles, negotiating, planning, values, etc, etc. It was much more in-depth than Culture Shock! Germany. Recommended if you need to learn more about Germans, for some reason.
This was an excellent examination of the German psyche, specifically focusing on similarities and differences between German and American relationships, communication styles, negotiating, planning, values, etc, etc. It was much more in-depth than Culture Shock! Germany. Recommended if you need to learn more about Germans, for some reason.
47karspeak
37. Sleeping Murder (LT Recs)
A solid Agatha Christie, but not my favorite. It still kept me up late reading to find out who the murderer was, though!
A solid Agatha Christie, but not my favorite. It still kept me up late reading to find out who the murderer was, though!
48karspeak
38. The Basque History of the World: The Story of a Nation (Oldest Books from TBR Pile)
I was quite underwhelmed with this book, as were several others in the LT nonfiction group. Kurlansky was clearly Basque-biased, the book was poorly written/organized/edited, and there was very little about the actual Basque culture. Disappointing.
I was quite underwhelmed with this book, as were several others in the LT nonfiction group. Kurlansky was clearly Basque-biased, the book was poorly written/organized/edited, and there was very little about the actual Basque culture. Disappointing.
49karspeak
39. Neverwhere (Sci-Fi or Fantasy)
This was a very fun read. Gaiman creates another side of London called the Underworld, where people live underground and are not seen by normal, everyday Londoners. It felt like Timothy Burton meets Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, except with no aliens or spaceships. I also felt like I was reading a fantasy book that had the fun young adult vibe to it but was still definitely adult, somehow.
This was a very fun read. Gaiman creates another side of London called the Underworld, where people live underground and are not seen by normal, everyday Londoners. It felt like Timothy Burton meets Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, except with no aliens or spaceships. I also felt like I was reading a fantasy book that had the fun young adult vibe to it but was still definitely adult, somehow.
50DeltaQueen50
I read Neverwhere recently as well and so totally enjoyed it that I rushed out and bought Stardust and The Graveyard Book. From that one book I have become a raging Neil Gaiman fan!
51AHS-Wolfy
I'm glad he wrote the book for Neverwhere as the TV show really didn't do the story justice.
52karspeak
>50 DeltaQueen50:--I just added Stardust to my TBR list. I am always looking for easy yet satisfying reads to fill in between heavier reading.
>51 AHS-Wolfy:--I can imagine that the TV show couldn't even begin to do justice to Gaiman's creative world-building. But I did think many of the characters had a made-for-the-movies feel to them, I guess because they were so quirky and over-the-top.
>51 AHS-Wolfy:--I can imagine that the TV show couldn't even begin to do justice to Gaiman's creative world-building. But I did think many of the characters had a made-for-the-movies feel to them, I guess because they were so quirky and over-the-top.
53karspeak
40. The Remains of the Day (Book by an already familiar author)
This novel was flawlessly written. The story slowly unfurls and evolves before the reader's eyes through one man's recollections. A butler is taking a trip through the country and looks back on his career. How often do we lie to ourselves? Can we find truth after many years when we re-examine our memories? How are our perceptions colored by our ambitions? How do we face disappointment and heartbreak? This masterful, poignant novel was a lovely, sad read.
This novel was flawlessly written. The story slowly unfurls and evolves before the reader's eyes through one man's recollections. A butler is taking a trip through the country and looks back on his career. How often do we lie to ourselves? Can we find truth after many years when we re-examine our memories? How are our perceptions colored by our ambitions? How do we face disappointment and heartbreak? This masterful, poignant novel was a lovely, sad read.
54karspeak
41. Lamb (Book Club Reads)
Well, this did not quite fit my tastes. Lamb is the story of Jesus and his best friend Biff growing up. Jesus and Biff study with Buddhist monks, study in India with a yogi, etc. While Biff is a humorous, very tongue-in-cheek character, the author actually is respectful toward Jesus' divinity and teachings. And the author had researched that time period quite well. I think that Christians who are not overly devout could appreciate this book. I was actually hoping for a more sardonic handling of all of Christianity. But it ended up a little too fluffy for me.
Well, this did not quite fit my tastes. Lamb is the story of Jesus and his best friend Biff growing up. Jesus and Biff study with Buddhist monks, study in India with a yogi, etc. While Biff is a humorous, very tongue-in-cheek character, the author actually is respectful toward Jesus' divinity and teachings. And the author had researched that time period quite well. I think that Christians who are not overly devout could appreciate this book. I was actually hoping for a more sardonic handling of all of Christianity. But it ended up a little too fluffy for me.
55karspeak
42. The Blind Side (Nonfiction)
This was a very enjoyable read. I usually will not watch a movie if I've read the book or vice versa, but I really enjoyed this even though I had seen the movie first. This (true) story is a great one, very heartwarming, plus the author is a very good writer. There is a lot about the game of football, and I even enjoyed those parts, despite the fact that I can't stand to watch football. Recommended.
This was a very enjoyable read. I usually will not watch a movie if I've read the book or vice versa, but I really enjoyed this even though I had seen the movie first. This (true) story is a great one, very heartwarming, plus the author is a very good writer. There is a lot about the game of football, and I even enjoyed those parts, despite the fact that I can't stand to watch football. Recommended.
56karspeak
43. The Age of Innocence (Oldest Books from TBR Pile)
This was a great depiction of restrictive societal norms among upper-class New York at the end of the 19th century. Wharton's portrayal of a marriage bound by social convention was brilliant.
This was a great depiction of restrictive societal norms among upper-class New York at the end of the 19th century. Wharton's portrayal of a marriage bound by social convention was brilliant.
57karspeak
44. Spain is Different (Books about Europe)
This was another good book in the Interact Series, which discusses the differences in communication, mindset, values, family, etc. between the U.S. and another country, in this case Spain. My only complaint with this book is that it was published in 1999, although the content is still applicable.
This was another good book in the Interact Series, which discusses the differences in communication, mindset, values, family, etc. between the U.S. and another country, in this case Spain. My only complaint with this book is that it was published in 1999, although the content is still applicable.
58karspeak
Well, I don't think I will finish East of Eden or The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks before the close of 2010, so I will go ahead and sum up the year. My favorite classic was Middlemarch, favorite nonfiction was The Red Queen, favorite brain candy was The Hunger Games, and favorite fiction (which was half sci-fi, half novel) was Spin.
I was only able to complete 7/10 categories, but I did enjoy the structure of this particular challenge, and my biggest accomplishment was whittling down my TBR pile to less than 50! Happy New Year, and happy reading!!
I was only able to complete 7/10 categories, but I did enjoy the structure of this particular challenge, and my biggest accomplishment was whittling down my TBR pile to less than 50! Happy New Year, and happy reading!!
