Sundays on the Acre, Take 10

Before everyone starts bombarding me, I am putting up the new thread on my own!

A note about my rating scale:

3 stars or below - Not Recommended

3.5 stars - Guardedly Recommended

4 stars - Recommended

4.5-5 stars - Highly Recommended and you best get the book in hand now!

For the masochists among you, Sundays on the Acre begins here:

http://www.librarything.com/topic/78996
http://www.librarything.com/topic/82207
http://www.librarything.com/topic/83662
http://www.librarything.com/topic/84472
http://www.librarything.com/topic/85051
http://www.librarything.com/topic/86242
http://www.librarything.com/topic/86988
http://www.librarything.com/topic/87831
http://www.librarything.com/topic/88858

For those interested in my wiki, it is here: http://www.librarything.com/wiki/index.php/User:Alcottacre, but I do not really recommend it, as it is boring. All the action takes place on my threads :)

Books Read from My Personal Library in 2010



Pages Read 2010



Memorable Reads for 2010:

Nonfiction
The National Parks: America's Best Idea by Dayton Duncan & Ken Burns
Larry Burrows: Vietnam by Larry Burrows
The Morville Hours by Katherine Swift
Waterlog by Roger Deakin
Mountains Beyond Mountains by Tracy Kidder
Slavery By Another Name by Douglas A. Blackmon
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebekah Skloot
At the Hands of Persons Unknown by Philip Dray
On Hallowed Ground: The Story of Arlington National Cemetery by Robert M. Poole

Fiction
Salvation by Sholem Asch
The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery
Crossing to Safety by Wallace Stegner
The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami
Britten and Brulightly by Hannah Berry
The Party by Rudolph Von Abele
The Egyptian by Mika Waltari
Someone Knows My Name by Lawrence Hill
The Straight and Narrow Path by Honor Tracy
Little Boy Lost by Marghanita Laski
The War of the End of the World by Mario Vargas Llosa
Winter Rose by Patricia A. McKillip
Silence by Shusaku Endo
In This House of Brede by Rumer Godden
Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson
Still Alice by Lisa Genova

Young Adult
Genesis by Bernard Beckett
Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones
Airborn by Kenneth Oppel
The Four-Story Mistake by Elizabeth Enright
Briar Rose by Jane Yolen
Good Night, Mr. Tom by Michelle Magorian

A note about my memorable reads: I am not a book critic. My memorable reads list is just that: books that are memorable to me - that for some reason or other resonate with me. I do not review books as many people here do for the simple reason that I am a terrible book reviewer!

Just could not resist being the first person to post - there are some advantages to being in a different time zone! Stasia, just to say that I always read your thread, even if I don't comment very often. I don't add many books, because I am trying SO desperately to keep my list from more than doubling in size. But I'll probably have to read back over your whole 10 threads at some point, to pick up what I've missed. I hope you're enjoying some spring over your way.

Just saying hi. I haven't had a good look at yesterday's reads yet, but had already added In this House of Brede to my wishlist - am moving it to the top!

#2: Hey, Janet. Thanks for checking in. I appreciate you stopping by even if just to wave hello :)

#3: I had a great reading week, Cushla! Definitely do move Brede to the top of your stack. I think you will really like it.

Hi! I heard your whisper:) I hope the rain has stopped over there!

#5: Yes, finally. It was a very damp weekend.

New week, new thread, hope this one will somehow last for more than a week *wishful thinking I know*

#7: One can only hope!

here

#9: Thanks for stopping in, Susan!

Morning Stasia! We are here, the faithful followers!

#11: Yes, I see that, Mark! Have a great day.

...wha...? New wha...? Where's coffee?

#13: Not here! I cannot abide the stuff. Have a nice cuppa instead.

I'll supply the Diet Pepsi!

#15: I have one of those sitting right here beside me :)

6:30 am - starring and going back to waking up kids for school. They get up this early at weekends...
No coffee for me either, or Pepsi (in the morning??). I'll join you for the cuppa Stasia.

#17: You must realize, I have not been to bed yet, so 7:30am is the middle of my night, lol. I did have a cuppa about 2am though.

DP is my drink of choice Cal -- thx. I'll be right there.

Hi, Stasia. Great reads this week! I added the Lisle, Lowry, Simonson, Yolen and Godden to my list based on your recommendations. I almost left off the Trevor but so many other people chimed in that it was great, I just couldn't resist!

Still Alice is one of my favorites of the year as well. It is a truly memorizing book and will be one of those books that stays with me forever.

Have a great week!

Oh! Oh! Oh! Wind-Up Bird Chronicle and War of the End of the World in one listing! Where do you write what you make of them, Stacia? I need to read *WotEotW* again. I'll get so much more out of it since I think I'm reading better than I ever have.

Harking back to your previous thread - I must try and land me a copy of Briar Rose again. I did try to buy a used one on amazon last year, but the seller never came through.
Thanks for the hot tea offer - but I can't stand the stuff. Am making do with peach iced tea - iced being the only version of tea that I can abide. Am sitting back enjoying my Patriot's Day holiday, here in the Old Bay State. Not trying to rub it in or anything.....

Checking your thread twice a day, at least, is probably optimal, Stasia.

Hope you're having a good Monday morning!!

#20: I hope you enjoy all of those! Wow. You struck book gold this week.

#21: Peggy, I am not sure which thread I discussed the Murakami book on, but I think the Vargas Llosa book I talked about on thread 9 (if not that one, thread 8 - it was a fairly recent read.)

#22: I am the opposite, Charlotte: I do not care for the iced variety of tea at all, which is practically a sin down here in the South. As far as the Yolen book goes, I hope you get hold of a copy soon. I would be interested in seeing what you think of it. Are you watching the early baseball game for Patriot's Day today?

#23: Just fine, Linda. Are you feeling better?

#24 Well, I went to work and I've slept all night for two straight days, amazingly. Feeling somewhat better.

I'm heading away on a 3-night driving vacation on Sunday so I definitely hope I'm back to 100 percent by then.

Morning Stasia...

Ten threads already eh? ha...I'm reminding you that with each thread, you get a bit closer to my prediction...

#25: I am glad you are feeling at least a bit better, Linda. I hope you are back to 100% by Sunday as well.

#26: I am ignoring you and your foul prediction :)

Richard...
Looks like our testy friend is trying to ignore both of us..

For some reason, I can't make the little yellow star appear so I'm posting so I don't lose you. I've sometimes found myself to be 150-some-odd posts behind because I was on the wrong thread!!

#29: Sherlyn, if you ever lose my thread, I keep a running list of all of them on my profile page. The last one listed will be the current thread :)

I know what you mean Sherlyn - I lost the last thread for about 12 hours over the weekend, and ended up 200 posts behind.

#24 - no, Stasia, I'm not. I don't have cable - yeah, I know - everybody has cable, but not me - by choice. When I was getting my taxes done this year and the subject came up, somehow, my tax guy looked at me with horror and said "You don't have cable?!" sounding as if I'd just told him I didn't have indoor plumbing.
However, to be truthful, even if I did have cable I wouldn't be watching the Red Sox - too many forced viewings between 1968 and circa 1986. I'm done with them except on the extremely rare occasion. I do try to keep up with them via sports segments on TV - just so my RS obsessed boss will think that I am member in good standing of Red Sox Nation.

#32: I am watching it and the Sox are losing 8-0, so you are not missing anything.

Actually, if I were not married, I probably would not even own at TV. I know I would not have either cable or satellite.

We don't have cable either.

Sigh, by the time I catch up, you're up to 34 posts...

Tea for me, too, please, or Diet Pepsi, to which I am addicted. (Scary...) Although I'm becoming fond of one of the flavors of Zero-cal Vitamin Water (the mega c grape raspberry). I don't like anything that contains a lot of sugar, so no "real" soft drinks and no iced tea (unless it's just tea that I've brewed and stuck in the fridge.)

I thought 25 posts on your thread seemed ok until I found another 34 on this one!

We don't have cable or satellite TV either. The only reason I have normal TV is the BBC (dramas and Doctor Who!)

ETA: Oh, and tea for me too please :-)

We've been married 17 years and have been given 3 TV's so far (never bought one) by people who feel sorry for us when they find out a) we don't have one or b) it's so old there's no remote. We now have two nice TV's in good working order thanks to parents and neighbors. We got Dish Network a few years ago for the summer Olympics, and somehow we still have it. I'm always saying we should cancel it, and my husband is always saying after (insert sport) season. Not that I hate it - I like sports and I am a total Food Network and Masterpiece Theater junkie, but I can live without the rest. Kid's programming is especially bad. I ask you, WHERE ARE THE PARENTS in the TV shows?

Now that I've discovered LT and I'm reading more than ever, I would gladly give up my TV. But my husband would be quite upset.

I feel so much happier after finishing a book than I do after watching TV.

We never had cable either until last September, when we couldn't get any channels at all without it. My son loves it; I still just watch PBS.
I do like my tea, but I am also addicted to Diet Pepsi. No coffee either, unless it's the frou-frou stuff.

#34: Good for you! I really wish we did not.

#35: Unfortunately, I am addicted to Diet Pepsi, too :)

#36: What kind of tea would you like, Heather? I stock a wide variety here at my house: green, white, black, roobois . . .

#37: I like HGTV, but that is about the only channel I watch with any degree of regularity - and it has been at least 2 months now since I watched it!

#38: I feel so much happier after finishing a book than I do after watching TV. I can relate - after all, there is a sense of accomplishment after reading a book, right?

#39: Diet Pepsi addicts unite on Stasia's thread!! Of course, tea drinkers are welcome too :)

Count me among the tea drinkers.

I am also a Diet Pepsi addict!

As for TV, when I moved to where I live now (20 years ago), I had only recently bought a color TV and had had only a 13-inch B&W for years. In my new apartment, I could only get the local PBS station without cable and this was fine for a year, but when the Gulf War started I felt the need for CNN and signed up for cable. When my sweetie moved in, he wanted a bigger TV so we got a second, humongous, color TV for him to watch. He is a news/sports/old movie addict, but when he's away I only turn the TV on for the weather, although I must also confess I'm Law & Order rerun addict.

Diet drinks and cats...what further proof is needed that there is an active, malevolent Satan at work in the world? Oh! Of course! Tea!

Just wanted to pick up on comments about speed reading in the middle of the previous thread. The Amazon reviewer referred to as HK may be a speed reader, I wouldn't want to insult Stasia or anyone else I talk to online by comparing her. Some of her book reviews rather suggest that she has only read part of the book she's reviewing - for example, she once reviewed a book in which there is a switch of first person narrator in the middle and she clearly hadn't realised (the implication being that she read the beginning and end, or that she "reads" so fast she doesn't actually take in that much).

Oh god, no comparison between Stasia and the infamous HK... the latter is utterly bizarre. Most of the reviews are completely illiterate.

Rebecca, I'm another Law & Order addict... reruns and new broadcasts. Wow, L&O, Diet Pepsi and books... quite an odd combination...! I don't watch that much television, but want to have it there when I need it, or when something is on that I do need or want to watch, even if that's three times a month.

Re parents in kids' TV shows -- when I was a kid, I always loved the books that featured kids doing things on their own, without adults. Geoffrey Trease, where adults were in the background; Arthur Ransome; Enid Blyton, etc. So I can understand the attraction in TV shows that feature the same thing.

As always, the conversations on this thread are fascinating.

Diet drinks bring on a nasty, nasty headache...an immediate bang in the forehead...I cannot tolerate artificial sweeteners...I was hospitalized because I consumed yogart that I thought was low fat but actually was artificially sweetened... .

I'm in a house with a tv watcher. I don't understand the lure and fascination of it, but he tolerates my book addiction so I try to understand his need to watch a lot of tv.

#45, I haven't read them in awhile but, if I recall, HK loves every book she reads.

Linda, I think someone actually studied her many thousands of reviews and found a tiny handful of 3-star reviews. But yes, she's the biggest cheerleader around. The question is -- if you were an author, would you want her five-star rating if it came complete with her inarticulate and muddled summary of the plot (including spoilers)?? Oy vey...

I admire anyone who can write reviews. I just cannot. I cannot articulate well enough what it is that I liked or did not like about a book. You have no idea how I wish I could write a decent review!

I agree with you -- it is an art. Some books I can write about -- it just flows. Others are harder. I know whether I like or dislike them, but I can't really say why.

I think good critics have an instinct and a talent. I do not mean the 'bashers' who can criticize just for the sake of criticism - I can do that. I mean the critics who are thoughtful even when they do not like the book, movie, whatever.

Great! A new thread I can begin keeping up with you here, Stasia. Since I've been out of the loop and since I've decided to be Very easy on myself, I scanned your last thread and when I saw that you started this one, voila! I am a happy camper/reader.

Now I can stay more on top of your incredible thread. Thanks.

You know, I can come here just to relax and have some fun reading posts. It attracts brainy, fun-loving people who enjoy knowing you, like I do.

Happy trails.

Ruthie

Ruthie!!! I am so happy to see you again!!!

De nada. I'm glad to "See" you too, dear one.

Be aware Ruth, that Stasia's threads only last for one week before she needs to begin a new one. :0)

Hey, that last one was about 10 days old before I started a new one!

I used to be addicted to diet soda before I gave up caffeine and then it was relatively easy to just give up soda altogether. I loved iced tea but go through stages as to what kind: sometimes sweetened, sometimes unsweetened, sometimes mint, etc., etc. I mostly drink water when we go out because the iced tea always has caffeine.

Unlike many on this thread, we have many TVs in the house and, I am ashamed to admit, my DH actually put one on the screened in porch last year so that he can watch baseball out there! I pretend that I can't see it whenever I go out there.

I actually cannot fall asleep without a TV even though I only watch about 2 minutes of the program before I am completely out! I am also a Law & Order addict and it doesn't matter which version of the show it is - I love them all.

Even though we do have a lot of TVs, we actually don't watch too much of it. The girls only watch for about an hour or so before bed, the boys (including DH) mostly watch sports and I mostly have it on as background noise while I read. I think it comes from being left home alone as a child when I was way too young to be home alone and needed to have the TV on so I didn't completely freak out. It kind of became a habit that has continued into adulthood.

#57: I rarely fall asleep in front of the TV, but I do need 'white noise' to help me sleep, since I end up sleeping when everybody else is awake.

>57 bookaholicgirl: - I hear ya, Stasia, The "white noise" machine is my good friend in the daytime when I need some peace and quiet for a "nap."

First on my thread list this morning!

Ruthie

#59: First on my thread list this morning!

Woot! I am privileged!!

I know, I know, silly question again, but what is white noise?

I watch far less TV now than I did only a year ago. I "blame" the 75 challenge, since I now have to spend my time reading. Though I can hardly see anything negative about it:) But I do watch a lot of sports, especially football (soccer) and some of my favourite shows. When I was away at uni, I sometimes had the TV on for the "company". I sometimes felt a little alone and needed someone else to be in the room even if I didn't watch the show.

#61: Bente, 'white noise' would be noise that is soothing, rather than disturbing. For example, I use the fan in my bedroom as my white noise. There are actually companies that make white noise machines: http://www.white-noise.us/?cmp=google_search&kw=white%20noise

Hope that helps answer your question, which by the way, was not silly!

Ya'll want the technical definition of white noise? :)

I's love the hear the technical definition, Doc. If Stasia doesn't mind, of course.

Ruth/womansheart

Ah, I loved the white noise machine when I worked the night shift. In the city you need one, and really thick curtains. I also recommend the Buddha box - if you can find one with actual chanting. Very relaxing.
I often keep the TV on as background noise. Mostly the news channel, but I'm always looking for re-runs of Buffy or Doctor Who. And I have been known to watch a lot of crap as well. If there's a Sex Rehab/ Sober House marathon on -- I'm watching it. And I don't even like that show.

#63: Have at it, Jim!

Stasia, you could do better than a certain reviewer who I'll resist naming here, I'm sure. Some people write brilliant reviews with a depth and level of insight, and/or lovely wit and style, but most people on this list could tell us enough of what a book is about, and why they loved/hated it or neither, without spoilers - that's all a review needs to be - especially if payment is non existent or negligible (I do post/repost some of my reviews on sites which pay a few pence per review, but the money's derisory for the time involved).

#67: the money's derisory for the time involved

I bet! There is a lot involved in writing reviews, I would think, just trying to process the book in your own mind and then getting the thoughts down in a coherent manner on paper.

Sound is essentially a time-based signal. The pressure on your eardrums varies with time. But one can also use Fourier transforms, a mathematical technique, to look at the signal as a function of frequency and using filters we can manipulate the signal to emphasize low frequencies or high frequencies. The knobs on your car radio do just that. The frequency dependence is a spectrum - the best example is a rainbow, where your eyes see the separate frequency bands as different colors.

White noise is defined as a signal for which the power density spectrum is constant over some defined frequency band. This means that all frequencies are present in equal power in units of W/Hz. So for an acoustic signal with perfect ears, you hear what sounds like a random noise, that characteristic hissing sound. White light is another example of white noise.

#67 what are the sites that pay for reviews?

Stasia, I'm glad that you liked Still Alice! I heard the author speak last year (she was a graduate of my college, and came back to discuss the book), and it was great to hear about how she put the story together. Apparently she actually became part of an online community of people with Alzheimer's, and asked the members for their versions of their stories so she would be able to write in the voice of the person with the disease. Plus, she has a Ph.D. in neuroscience, so she's explored all of the various sides of it!

If I can review, anyone can review. All it takes is a confidence in your evaluation of a book and a degree of literacy. Stasia, you have more than most reviewers on Amazon!!

For white noise, I use my bedroom AC set on the fan. I live across the street from a subway entrance, and people hang out there all night. Plus the usual bunch of drunks and midnight party animals wandering the streets at 3 a.m. and yelling at the top of their lungs. I can deal with the traffic noise, but not the people noise or thumping car stereos. White noise machines aren't loud enough, I've found, and ear plugs simply don't work for me (or if they do, I then end up sleeping through my alarm...) As the good doc said, it's the constancy of the noise -- it's something that is not jarring in itself, but more soothing.

Drive-By wave and a Hug! 192+ books? At least they're Gooduns....and you're doing what you love...

Jane Yolen is a wonder, I agree....DIET PEPSI is not..it gives me serious heartburn. I stick to tea (and beer)...

Too much to catch up with here...so I'll mosey on and be back later

;-}

I've used a "white sound" machine for years to drowned out my husband's snoring. I have two - one on my nighttable and another that is battery operated that goes with me when I travel. I've gotten so used to sleeping with it, I can't sleep otherwise.

Mine has several different sounds - rushing water , tinkling brooks, trains, birds chirping , rain, surf, crickets

Love mine!

Thanks for all the answers about the white noise:) It was helpful. I actually have the ocean just outside my bedroom window, which is rather soothing, but is sometimes interrupted by screaming seagulls. Definitely not soothing!

Hmm, who is this mystery reviewer at amazon? I don't think I've noticed her/him.

Apolline, it's Harriet Klausner, the "#1 ranked" reviewer on Amazon (under the old ranking system).

I would love the ocean outside my window -- wouldn't mind the gulls. Yes, waves are a great source of white noise...

Wow, I thought I was doing well, and I came on today and saw that I was behind, way behind on your thread. lol..

I am sorry to most of you Coke Zero is my favorite drink. I used to drink only Regular Coca Cola however becoming a diabetic put a halt to that. I like tea too.. most flavors hot and cold. :) Hopefully I don't get the boot off the threat with being a Coca Cola fan..

White noise. I run a fan in my bedroom every night for some peace and quiet. I love it, tends to block out the TV in the other room that my Mother in Law is constantly watching. She used to love to read but she has difficulties now, it makes her dizzy and she cannot focus for long periods. I try to read excerpts to her once in a while, but she gets hooked right back into the TV again. LOL..

TV vs Reading, I enjoy both in there own degree's. But I do tend to agree that you get more satisfaction and sense of accomplishment reading a book.

As far as reviews go. Some books I agree are very easy to review and can give you a natural flow to write about, others on the other hand I have difficulties reviewing as well... I think I am all caught up now. Woot Woo..!!!

> 65 Okay, I had to look up a Buddha Box and now I want one. Sounds unique and comforting.

#76 Thanks Suzanne. Out of curiosity I googled her and found quite a few review, in fact there were many. Only read a couple, but I do see what you mean. The positive thing though is that she seems very interested in literature. But I have no intentions of reading all those reviews, it would interfere with my precious book-reading time and my LT-time:) No can do!

#69 Loved the technical bit Jim - thank you!

You will, I think, be interested to know that I'm reading a book with a character named Stasia in it! It is Hotel Savoy by Joseph Roth and she is a struggling dancer.

she is a struggling dancer *smirk*

Richard...
Each and every time I sit at the computer and laugh, Will says "Richard must have written something funny again!"

Oh, my but it is good to laugh! Thank you!



Stasia sounds very much like a Russian name...I can picture a graceful dancer hailing, not from Leningrad, but from Sherman Texas...She is spinning around with books in her hands.

By the way Stasia...
I think we should have the opportunity to meet Richard....You can sit on one side, I'll be on the other. He will be overwhelmed by us...

Stasia, just stopped by to note that I see you've finished Phantom Tollbooth and now I'm anxious to read your comments about it on Sunday.

Loved the technical description of white noise. I'd rather open the window to hear the crickets or night birds, but since I've developed tinnitus I'll sometimes turn on a fan just to drown out the ringing.

Hey everyone, I am not ignoring you, just taking a break from LT tonight. My nephew was in a car accident this evening and although he is fine, there are some other things going on involving the accident that kind of have me rather emotionally spent at the moment.

I will be back tomorrow, I promise.

I'm sorry to hear that Stasia. I hope everything is ok.

Hope everything turns out ok!

Best wishes from me, too, Stasia.

We will wait for you and I hope that everything is okay Stasia. Take care...

Sending a cyber hug your way, Stasia.

Morning Stasia- Hope all is well with your nephew! Try to have a good day!

Hi, Stasia,
Praying that all is alright. God bless.
--BJ

Hi Stasia, hope you and your family are ok. See you back here when things are better!

Whew! Finally caught up! *wipes hand across forehead*

So very sorry to hear about your nephew's accident, Stasia. I hope and pray everything will be OK.

Chiming in late . . . I'm another Coke Zero drinker -- especially Vanilla Zero! (My favorite NASCAR driver is a "Coca-Cola" driver. . .)

...I cannot tolerate artificial sweeteners...
Linda, I'm curious -- might you be able to use stevia (which is natural, but calorie free)? I do wish some company would try using that in a soft drink! I'd pay extra for it.

I'll admit it -- for Christmas (actually after, when we got a bargain) we got a flat screen TV with Dish HD and I'm loving it, sports nut that I am.

Thanks for the good wishes about Levi. I am trying to get hold of my early rising sister to find out exactly what is going on, since I did not take the phone call last night and am getting all the information second hand (which only adds to my anxiety level since I have a just dandy imagination!)

Wish and hope your nephew would be alright and recover soon, give your imagination a break, it never really helps in such situations, reading a cheerful book might help?

Hope all is well with your nephew.

#97: I keep getting distracted while I am reading (my imagination rearing its ugly head!) - it took me hours to get through Barbara Kingsolver's High Tide in Tucson. I am trying dragons now - we will see if they work better at calming me down :)

which only adds to my anxiety level since I have a just dandy imagination!)
You sound like me in that regard, Stasia!

#99 If dragons don't work, try elves :)
Maybe a good time to borrow Catey's Artemis Fowl collection...

#100: It's tough, isn't it, Terri?

#101: Good thought! We will see how the dragons do first though (especially since the book is due back at the library today, lol)

Praying everything is well with your family, Stasia!

Hoping that your nephew is okay! We're all thinking of you!

Well dragons are not cutting it either, so I think that for today, I am just going to have to put the books aside. My mind is just too scattered at the moment.

Thank you all for your prayers and good wishes for Levi and the family.

I hope he is ok.

Dear Stasia:

I hope that by now or very soon that you have heard first hand what happened before during and after the car accident that you nephew was involved in. You will get much relief I think just hearing the details from your nephew or your sister directly.

I haven't tried it myself, although I understand that it really does help people, that writing about what is running through your brain over and over can be helpful. I guess it's kinda good to get it out on paper or in a text document on your 'pooter and less stuck in your brain replaying over and over.

I sure hope you can talk to family soon and ally your concerns real or imagined ones.

I don't like thinking of you struggling with this. And remember, as I have to tell myself all of the time, WE ARE ALWAYS DOING THE BEST WE CAN!

Sending love and gentle patience with yourself in a special "CARE" package to arrive simultaneously with this post.

I hope all is well.

As always, Happy Trails ...

Your friend, Ruthie

>107 womansheart: I do use that technique sometimes, and it has helped.

Praying.

Stasia, I do the same thing with my imagination, hence the reason I am so far behind on my challenge with all of the things going on in my life. I am praying for your nephew and hope that all is well and you hear something very soon. Take care and as I said before we will all be here waiting for you..

I think many women are "blessed" with overactive imaginations. It is the not knowing that is so hard to deal with. I hope your lines of communication are open soon -- and that you get some good news.

Sending courage and compassion through the ether to you, Stasia.

Prayers for you and your nephew and his family.

Whammying only goods news for Levi and family....

Finally caught up on your new thread, Stasia! My thoughts and prayers are with you, your nephew, and the rest of your family.

I talked to my sister and Levi is OK. He is out of jail and has suffered no ill effects from the wreck. The really terrible thing about this is that he had just started at Le Courdon Bleu in Dallas about 2 weeks ago and we have no idea what is going to happen there.

I'm glad he's okay. Hopefully, there will not be problems with school. There is a Le Courdon Bleu attached to the school where I teach nights, and it is agony to go there sometimes when everything smells so good! I wish they'd just open a cafe and let me have my dinner there.

Sending best wishes!

Sending you the warmest wishes that your family can get through this Stasia.

hugs for you, your nephew and family!

I was going to complain about the 70 messages today after going to work, but of course now I understand why. Hope all is going well with your nephew and that you have all the info you need, Stasia.

Best wishes for you and your family, Stasia. I'm thinking of you!

Hope everything is okay. Thinking of you.

Sending hugs; glad the nephew is at least physically OK. One day at a time, one hour at a time...

If not dragons, what about Garfield or Snoopy?? I defy anyone to resist the power of a literary beagle or a lasagna-scarfing cat. I'm struggling to imagine a book-less Stasia, and my imagination is scaring me, too...

After multiple discussions with my mother (Levi's grandma) and sister (Levi's mama) and some sleep (finally about 3:30pm this afternoon), things are looking better. It is too early to tell about all of the ramifications from Levi's accident at this point, but he is back at school and hopefully, will keep out of trouble from now on :)

I so appreciate all of you and your good wishes and prayers. Thank you so much!

Anytime. Glad Levi is okay and back at school.

You are loved.

R

#124: Thanks, Ruth!

Quote for the day from Good Night, Mr. Tom by Michelle Magorian:

"I couldn't get We Didn't Mean to go to Sea, but I've got it reserved for you. So I got you this one instead."

She took it from his hands.

"At the Back of the North Wind by George MacDonald. Never heard of it." She flicked over the pages and began reading chapter one. "It looks all right. You got the others, didn't you?"

"Yeh. Here," he replied, handing them to her. "A Little Princess, David Copperfield and Black Beauty."

"Wizzo!"

"Don't start readin' them now or we'll never get down to the river."

Of course, it would never happen that I start reading something and not get to what I am supposed to be doing . . .

Posted to the Kitchen too

Morning Stasia! I liked the quote! Nice way to start the day!

Morning Mark! Glad you liked it. Have a great one!

I missed reading all this earlier, sorry to hear about your nephew, glad he's ok and is back at school, and hope that the anxiety this is causing you eases soon.

#129: Thanks, Lucy. I am doing much better after long conversations with both my mother and sister yesterday.

I'm glad you're doing better!

Glad to hear that you've had a chance to talk with family, and that you're feeling better about it all. I hope things turn out OK.

Love your quote of the day!

I'm also glad to hear that you're doing better, Stasia.

#70 Tinuviel, in the UK there's www.ciao.co.uk and www.dooyoo.co.uk - apparently Ciao has a US version but the views I've seen expressed on it are pretty negative. There's also a US site called epinions.com. You can write on sites in another country but if you want to pick up your few pence or cents it doesn't work - Ciao uk don't pay unless you have a bank account in the Uk, and anyway, as what you're earning is pence. I don't recommend them as a way of earning. I did "meet" the women who run The Bookbag there (they also met there) and that pays no money at all but does send me books, and we get to choose from what's sent by publishers - it's a faster way of earning books than the so-called paying sites.

Stasia -

Love the quote you posted.

Thinking of you and sending relaxation and clarity your way, along with hugs.

Love and Happy Trails -

Ruthie

I am so glad to read that Levi is ok and back at school. I hope everything settles down from here on out!

My library has a copy of Good Night, Mr. Tom and I can pick it up tomorrow....Pleasant reading for the weekend eh?

#134 Thanks for the info!

Stasia, I'm glad that Levi is doing alright

I'm giving you a thumbs up for your good news regarding Levi.

Stasia, I am really glad to know that Levi escaped without harm, believe you would have attacked the dragons with a vengeance :)

I'm also glad things with your nephew have settled down.

gurgle gurgle gurgle ...... that's me drowning under all the posts in your thread after being away for a mere 3 days!

Caroline..
I recommend, you take a big breath, dive to the bottom of Stasia's ocean, pick up a few books on the floor, find the sunshine and swim back up to the top, volumes in hand, reaching to the sky.

Quote for the day from North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell:

"These books, Dixon, I will keep. All the rest will you send to Mr. Bell? They are of a kind that he will value for themselves, as well as for papa's sake."

I have a small collection of books that belonged to my grandmother. I may never read them, but I keep them because I value them for her sake.

Posted to the Kitchen too

Glad to learn that Levi is safe and sound, Stasia. Hope that all will remain well with you and yours.

To return for just a second to the previous topics: Diet Pepsi addict here. I hate myself for it; hate it. Also an L and O fan, but the TIOLI challenges and some internal screaming have cut that bad habit back somewhat.

On reviews: Some here (good morning, Richard) seem to be able to create marvelous, pithy, and witty reviews of all their reading. For me it's fairly laborious, but I usually enjoy doing it. Of course there's the odd book that just strikes the reader hard, and then the review (almost) writes itself. Of the professional reviewers, my favorite would be Michael Dirda. In fact, in my next life I would like to be some version of Michael Dirda---incredibly well-read, an incisive but not cruel reviewer, and an engaging, charming essayist. Oh dear...I guess my Dirda fandom is showing. Never mind.

Good Morning ... or whatever time of day you are checking in on your thread ...

I have seen the BBC or A&E production of North and South on DVD. It is excellent. Maybe sometime I will get around to reading the book, too.

Happy Trails today and always,

Ruth

#145: Thanks, Gail. As far as Diet Pepsi goes, I am fixing to go cold turkey. I am doing this diet thing where I am not allowed any artificial sweeteners. I think it is going to kill me :) I also enjoy Michael Dirda, so I know whereof you speak.

#146: Hello again, Ruthie!! I have not seen the productions you mentioned of North and South although I believe Catey owns one of them. I would rather stick to the book anyway - which, having now completed, I can heartily recommend!

Glad to hear Levi is ok.

I absolutely love RC Cola but have tried to put it out of my mind as I'm trying to lose weight. (I've lost 20 lbs since October)

I read North and South around the time the miniseries came out and absolutely loved it. Oops, different book. The one I'm thinking of was by John Jakes.

147- I know a few people who have cut out diet soda and actually lost a surprising amount of weight (with no other diet changes). You would not think giving up diet drinks would have that effect, but it did for them!

Of course, they were a little cranky when they were in withdrawal, lol!

#149 I have decaffeinated myself several times in the past, and each time I had to do it slowly because of caffeine withdrawal headaches. So yes, I was cranky! But it might be time to try it again.

starred

#143 : Linda ... Stasia's ocean is so deep it would take me an extra pair of lungs to swim up from the bottom and if I grabbed all the books I wanted from her sunken treasures, I'd never make it up at all.

I hate all diet drinks ... there's a taste that comes with artificial sweeteners that leave a nasty aftertaste in my mouth. Thankfully I'm not a big soda fan to begin with, but when I do crave some soda, it's got to be Coke, the normal original Coke.

> 152 - Caroline -

I'm with you on the soft drinks, soda pop, whatever. Coca Cola is the only one that I decide to "spend" my sugar allowance and calories enjoying. I though I don't drink it very often it still tastes like the "best" to me.

And ... sports fans ... I've lost seventy-two pounds in the last fourteen months. I was diagnosed with high blood pressure and type two diabetes in February 2009, and by golly, with everything else on my plate I didn't want to have to take medicine to control them. So, I decided this is it, it's now or never, Ruthie. Time to shed the extra fluff. I already deal with other chronic health stuff and just could face more meds, sticks in the finger to monitor blood sugar, etc.

I've lost enough to go from three blood pressure meds to one-half of one of them. The others are history. And, no sticks or meds for the Type 2 diabetes, either. My blood sugar levels are almost always normal as is my A1c ... or whatever that code is called.

Anyway. Wanted to share some success with you as well as saying, yes, I still occasionally drink a "real" Coke. After all ... it's the "real thing."

Apologize for hijacking your thread, Stasia. You know I love and respect you, but it just popped out on the screen by itself ... tee hee.

I hope that you and yours are all doing well by now. Peace and quiet to all.

Love and Happy Trails -

R

Wow, Ruth! Congratulations on a battle well fought and won!

Hooray for you Ruth! I think that's impressive.

Ruth, Good for you. That is so hard to do so you deserve a pat on the back. Great job!

Ruth
It is great to see posts from you throughout the threads. Welcome back..My Dear!!!

Congratulations on losing all that weight. I know you have been through quite a lot these last few months and thus wish you continued good health.

Carbonated drinks have carbon dioxide in them. The same gas that requires a detector to be sure you're not inhaling at home, because it's LETHAL.

Doesn't that suggest something about their fitness for daily drinking? Like, they aren't?

My congrats to you, too, Ruth! That is awesome!
--BJ

I think you're thinking of carbon monoxide--being so toxic, I mean--but now I'm going to go check on that.

#153: Congratulations, Ruth, on taking charge of your weight and your meds! What a terrific accomplishment.

#160: Both carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide can be toxic. When people breathe, we breathe out carbon dioxide which plants need for the process of photosynthesis and they in turn give off oxygen as a by product.

Sorry for the biology lecture :)

>158 richardderus:, well, any kind of alcohol is really toxic for me as I get a migraine that makes me want to try to kill myself. My dentist won't let me drink fruit juice more than twice a week; he says it's worse for my teeth than diet soda. And frankly, water bores me and I can only drink so much tea. So I suppose it's a case of picking one's poison, at least for me.

The only way I can lose weight is to exercise. I can eat/consume 1,000 calories a day and lose less than 1/2 a pound a week; or consume 1,500 cals a day and work out 8 hours a week and lose 1 to 2 pounds a week. What I'm drinking doesn't seem to make much difference -- whether it's only water, or water with tea/diet soda. I will never be svelte, but my bp is normal, my chlolesterol is normal (tho I can't spell it!) and so's my blood sugar, happily. Fingers crossed, touch wood, etc. etc. All I really need is a head transplant.

Ruthie- That is great news! Hope the rest of your year is a healthy one!
Morning Stasia!!

Morning Mark!

Oh Chatterbox you have made my day! One of our fondest sayings around here is "Oh no! Water is BORing!" My mother, when offered a glass of water one hot day by my husband, just came out with it. And we love remembering her saying it.

Ruth -- WOW is all I can say.

edited to remove a mix up!!! yoicks. I need to drink less coffee.

#165: What professional? I am not a professional anything.

Humble apologies - I got persons and posts mixed up, please forgive me!

#168: No problem. I was just going to let it slide since I had no idea what you were talking about :)

That's nothing new for me, of course!! :)

Actually, I thought I was the problem, lol. No worries, Lucy.

Library book sale was today and I picked up a few:

25th Anniversary Crime Club Classics
The Saint vs. Scotland Yard by Leslie Charteris
The Crimson Circle by Edgar Wallace
Flowers for the Judge by Margery Allingham

plus

Houses of Stone by Barbara Michaels
The Magdalen Martyrs by Ken Bruen
Thornyhold by Mary Stewart
King, Queen, Knave by Vladimir Nabokov

All hardcovers for $1 apiece. Not too shabby.

Ooh, you got some good ones. :)

I'm coming out on the side of water here ... that's my preferred beverage. I drink water all day long .. I even cut my orange juice with water because I don't like sweet drinks ....Coke being the one exception and only when i'm in a rare mood for soda.

Ruthie, you're my all time heroine! Congratulations!
Suz, I can't believe you can subsist on 1000 calories a day! Kudos to you ... I think. I love food too much I think, and I'm also always hungry so I tend to snack alot and my vice is potato chips. I do like fruits and salads, but I'm big on meat and french fries. Having said that, my cholesterol is good and I have low blood pressure. I did manage to lose that weight so my dress suit was comfortably loose last week during the conference, so I'm happy about that. I hope to keep up with regular exercise so I can maintain my weight.

now that the weather's getting better, I'm looking forward to running outdoors again ...even though I'm not a great runner, but I love being out in the woods and running on grass and dirt.

ok, Stas ...I'm done hijacking your thread ...for now.......

---->172 alcottacre:: Oooo, The Saint! I well remember that series as some of my first "adult" reading---in those ancient days, we didn't have too many YA books. I loved them, thought them funny and edearing. You made some good scores at the sale!

Stasia -

Thank you for stepping in and posting a link to my thread for Darryl.

It is always a pleasant realization when I have insomnia and get on the LT website in the wee small hours and see that you are probably at work and posting to LT also. Nice to have a buddy up and on LT. We are currently both night owls, but, I'm hoping that I can get back to more regular sleeping patterns soon.

Will check in tomorrow for your Sunday post ... until then. Happy Trails.

Ruthie

I like water too - cold water.

I can already hear the collective argh - but I can't stand Coke or Pepsi. They taste medicinal to me. It may just be because I am not a soda pop drinker. If I'm having a sweet drink I prefer lemonade. Great for the teeth too (ha ha)

Monoxide, dioxide, it's supposed to be OUTside your body, not in it...and water might be boring (I don't think it is, but I clearly am a weirdo around here) but it's not lethal in drink-sized doses, either.

*sigh* Well, converts are not to be made around here, I suppose. *goes off to pour twelfth and last cup of coffee*

*lurks expectantly, prepared to leap upon anyone who drinks sodas and dares to criticze coffee consumption*

*pat, pat, pat*

#178 I switched from soda to coffee. Love the coffee.
--BJ

Stasia- I see you picked up a Bruen. Hmmmmm...good sign! This is the 3rd Jack Taylor and the last I read!

#178 I am a tea person and a little bit of caffeine (4-6 cups a day) never hurt anybody!

Lemonade is good for teeth? Haven't heard this one before, Jenn. I thought too much acid was bad for the enamel? I think my favorite drink though is fresh squeeze orange and lemon juice mixed, no sugar and lots of ice.

rdear .. You are not a weirdo for liking water .. and if you are, then welcome to the club in which Jenn and I are already swimming.

has anyone said anything about coffee consumption? bit of TMI here maybe so for anyone not interested don't read further .... coffee makes me sleepy. Yup, give me a strong espresso and within a half hour I start feeling really drowsy. Needless to say, I do not drink coffee before a meeting... or at least not in one I'm expected to stay awake in.

at least not in one I'm expected to stay awake in

I believe we have found a Thanksgiving-made-tolerable idea for you, Caro darling! A stiff slug of espresso about 2p, then bye-bye birdie until Black Friday!

Now why didn't I ever think of that?!!!!

I live to serve....

and you do it so well. ;-)

I love water too!!

yay Ruthie!

Coffee!!! Any way, shape or form!!!

Sorry Caroline - I was joking about the lemonade. Yes I like it, no, it is not good for my teeth. Oddly, when I was pregnant, it was about the only thing I could keep down. Still not sure why.

DSBB - 0

whew.... Do I have to count the ones that already hit me?

In the mornings I drink coffee, otherwise, I mostly drink ice cold water. So I'm in Richard's camp on this one...

I don't dislike water. But I couldn't drink water and nothing but all day, and that was sort of the point I was making. I do consume my statutory 8 glasses (more or less). I've never been a coffee addict, happily, and when I do stop drinking diet Pepsi, equally happily I don't get rebound headaches. I've found a great substitute for alcoholic drinks at events when you need to look like you're drinking or people assume you're in AA -- Perrier with cranberry juice, about half and half. Delicious, and not too sweet. I adore lemonade, but.... the sugar!!!

I like the sound of Perrier with cranberry juice.
I am not a coffee drinker, but I am a coffee smeller. I love that aisle in the supermarket.

why not just Perrier with some ice and a slice of lime? It'll look like a G&T or Vodka tonic. :-)

Glad to see you had a good book sale! I quite enjoyed Thornyhold. I definitely need to read more Mary Stewart.

Here we go, Stasia! Lucy has set up a Stegner thread here, so star it, grab your copy, and be ready to read on May 3! I'm happy!

#196: Thanks, Tabs!

#197: I went over and signed up. Thanks, Peggy.

OK, I am apologizing in advance for this week's reading which leans heavily toward young adult & juvenile books:

198. The Guards by Ken Bruen - Mark loaned me this book (thanks again!) and for the most part I enjoyed it, but parts of it were difficult for me - I have a hard time admiring or identifying with an alcoholic protagonist - plus some of Bruen's style just wore out its welcome with me; that being said, I am still interested enough to read more of his books; guardedly recommended

199. Fantasy in Death by J.D. Robb - I finally got my copy in so I could catch up with Dallas & Roarke; pure BC, a classic locked room mystery set in 2060; recommended for fans of the series Mine

200. Alice I Have Been by Melanie Benjamin - a book that I really wanted to like and just did not care for at all; I did not like the portrayals of Dodgson, Ruskin, or Alice at all, I guess I was expecting it to be more nonfiction-like? I do not know, I just did not like it; not recommended

201. Pnin by Vladimir Nabokov - Pnin will not be my favorite Nabokov book, but he may be my favorite of Nabokov's characters, a bumbling, somewhat absentminded professor - I kept thinking of John Banner who played Sergeant Schultz on Hogan's Heroes as I read it; recommended

202. Aunt Julia and the Scriptwriter by Mario Vargas Llosa - this semiautobiographical novel was quite different from The War of the End of the World, the only other Vargas Llosa novel I have read; there is humor here, as well as some great storytelling; recommended

203. About Alice by Calvin Trillin - nonfiction; this slight book is a tribute by Trillin to his late wife, although not overly sentimental; I love the Trillins daughter Sarah's quote about her mother: "I know my mom's main goal in life was to protect my sister, father, and me. She wanted to protect us from worry, from sadness, from loneliness." - I hope I do as well as a mother; recommended

Continuing:

204. How to Train Your Dragon by Cressida Cowell - juvenile; this book was just fun - designed for kids ages 6-10, I would say, the classic story of an underdog who comes out on top; recommended

205. The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster - juvenile; I had never read this book as a child and never read it to the girls either, so it was new to me and I really liked it; this story of Milo, who does not know what to do with himself at the beginning of the story, and his adventures in restoring Rhyme and Reason to Wisdom is quite fun; recommended

206. High Tide in Tucson by Barbara Kingsolver - nonfiction; I am now officially a fan of Kingsolver's essays, having read her Small Wonder earlier this year; there are several in this book that I especially liked, including 'Confessions of a Reluctant Rock Goddess' (funny!), 'How Mr. Dewey Decimal Saved My Life', 'Jabberwocky', and 'Careful What You Let in the Door'; recommended

207. Good Night, Mr. Tom by Michelle Magorian - young adult; this story, set in WWII England, of an abused boy sent to the countryside during the blitz is just fabulous - thanks to Jenny (lunacat) for the recommendation; highly recommended, and on my memorable reads list for the year

208. Promises to Keep by Sharon Robinson - juvenile nonfiction; I did not realize when I put this book on hold that it was a juvenile biography of Sharon Robinson's famous father, Jackie, but I am not sorry I read it - I think Robinson did a terrific job in explaining why her father's breakthrough into the major leagues was such a big deal; recommended for baseball fans of any age

Continuing:

209. Cold Mountain by Charles Frazier - I liked this book a lot, but did not love it; I really liked the character of Inman and some of the prose passages were just lovely, but the character of Ada did nothing for me; recommended Mine

210. North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell - I really liked this one and thanks to Ellie for reminding me to finally getting around to reading it; the north and south of the title refer to the two parts of England - one industrialized, the other not and the two main protagonists Margaret Hale, who moves from the south to the north and John Thornton, who hires Hale's father as a tutor; recommended Mine

211. Ashenden by W. Somerset Maugham - this novel, based on Maugham's own experiences during WWI reads as a series of interconnected short stories rather than as a novel per se; one conversation noted during the book really fits it: "I hope you haven't been bored all alone with my husband. What have you been talking about? Art and Literature?" "No, it's raw material," said Ashenden.; guardedly recommended Mine

212. Beyond the Grave by Jude Watson - juvenile; book 4 of the 39 Clues series takes our intrepid heroes to Egypt where of course, more mayhem ensues, but Amy and Dan are starting to get their feet under them a little better; I liked this book better than book 3, with its crudely inserted attempt at romance; recommended for fans of the series

213. The Princess Diaries by Meg Cabot - young adult; the book is a lot different from my recollection of the movie - I found the book to be very funny in places, although I was not happy about the parts where Mia was lying to her parents; guardedly recommended

214. Trials of Death by Darren Shan - Book 5 in the Cirque du Freak series finds Darren facing 5 trials that he must escape or he will be killed; since the series continues after this book, the reader knows in advance that the hero survives, but half the fun of the book is figuring out how he is going to do it; recommended to fans of the series

THE END

What a nice group of books. I'd be adding Good Night at the very least ...

#202: Hey, Susan. I hope you get a chance to read Good Night, Mr. Tom. I imagine it will have to wait until you get back to the States, though. I am not sure how easy it will be for you to get in Romania.

Yes, that's why it's "I woudl be" rather than "I will be" :) Blessings.

Ah, OK. :) Right back at you!

Let's see...perusing the menu for the weekly specials. I'll have one order of Aunt Julia and the Scriptwriter to start, followed by the Pnin cooked medium rare, and Ashenden for dessert. No Miracle Whip, please.

#206: Cute, very cute, Darryl. I will not take any Miracle Whip either.

lol @ Darryl

nice list, Stasia.. I won't be adding any.. but that is because I
have a fearsome trio of piles waiting for me right now...
I just refuse!
:)

#208: Only a trio of piles, Kath? How high are they stacked?

Morning Stasia! It looks like you had a pretty good reading week! It reminded me that I need to get to more Nabokov. Too bad you were not more enthusiastic on Cold Mountain. I loved that book! If you can find Walking to Gatlinburg, similar theme to the Frazier book, give it a shot!

Glad to see you liked Cold Mountain Stasia! I loved myself loved it when I read it a few years ago. Have you seen the movie? It's probably my all time favourite movie; just love it!

#210: I have added Walking to Gatlinburg to the BlackHole already, Mark, but the local library does not have it. As far as Cold Mountain goes, I liked it, I just did not like it as much as I thought I would.

#211: I have not seen the movie version of Cold Mountain yet and am not sure that I will. I much prefer books to movies these days, but if I get a chance to watch the film, I will, based on your recommendation.

I loved The Phantom Tollbooth when I read it (as a child) I must try to find a copy for a re-read. Also I've seen the TV production of Goodnight Mr Tom (with John Thaw), absolutely brilliant, but haven't read the book yet - maybe one day.

#213: I did not realize there was a TV production of Good Night, Mr. Tom. I watch almost no television. I urge you to read the book, calm. I do not think you will be disappointed.

I am currently reading Wolf Hall and have come to the conclusion that there are entirely too many Thomases in it.

I think I've managed to dodge Stasia's book bullets for yet another week. I worry that I may be getting too picky; yesterday I went to the library and came home empty-handed....

#216: yesterday I went to the library and came home empty-handed

That is just plain scary!

Just thought I would jump in and say that you remembered correctly when you said the Princess Diaries movie was different from the book. The movies are quite different from the books, especially in the portrayal of Mia’s grandmother. Also, the second movie actually skips ahead in time past where the books were. :)

#218: I have not seen the second film at all, only the first one. Even the description of Mia from the book (blonde) differs from the movie. I think I will just stick with the books.

Thanks for dropping by, Caitlin!

> 216 I have days when I go to a bookstore or library and see nothing that interests me.... then next time I go I stagger out with more than I can carry. Wish I understood it. Of course, now, with LT I always have little pieces of paper on me with titles and authors scribbled illegibly.....

I don't think you need to apologize for a week when you read both North and South and Cold Mountain as well as a number fo other books Stasia LOL. I'll be adding the Kingsolver book to my pile. BTW I wasn't a fan of Cold Mountain at all.

>215 alcottacre: LOL Haven't read that one, but have had similar problems. Hang in there :)

I’m with brenzi; What’s with the apologizing thing, Stasia? Don’t be a goosey goosey…

Wow! I've read a number of the books on your list this week.

So glad you enjoyed How to Train Your Dragon. My son owns all the series and we have loved reading them as a family.
Good Night Mr. Tom was a book club read from several years ago, and one of my most memorable reads.
Cold Mountain - I have a kind of love-hate relationship with that book. I agree with you about Ada. I didn't love her. Outside of that, I think that Frazier makes the horrors of life for people caught between two armies very real.
Loved The Phantom Tollbooth as a kid. Don't know if my son has read it.
North and South is gathering dust on the bedside table...also the rest of the 39 Clues series as recommended by my son.

You got me with Pnin and Aunt Julia and the Scriptwriter!

Thanks, have another happy reading week.

#221: Hey, Bonnie. I am glad you stopped in!

#222: Oh, I am hanging in. I finished up part 3 in the wee hours this morning.

#223: I had not realized until I went to post them all this morning just how many young adult reads I had last week. Probably just as well :)

#224: Well, at least I got you with a couple, Jenn! I am glad to know that I am not the only one who had a problem with Ada in Cold Mountain.

Zoe, Stasia,

I came up zero again on DSBBs! I had been previously hit by a few.

Zoe, I don't think it's being picky, it's just that Stasia has previously hit us with so many BBs that we were due for a respite. This could just be the lull before the storm.....

Oh, No! Does that mean we should expect a barage of BBs in the near future? I think I'll have to go looking for camoflauge - like a stack of my own books to hide behind. I wonder if it will work? Can't hurt to try, I guess

#226: Yes, it is the lull before the storm. I am getting you into a state with a false sense of security and then . . .

I'm going to have to build that stack of books higher, I think. I'm afraid. LOL :)

**WAIT A MINUTE! Was Stasia threatening me? Does she think that I can't stand up to her book bullets? I will not hide! She can shoot them at me and I will dodge them all! (Who am I kidding.) Oh, well, better go make some room on those bookshelves. The mushroom cloud is bound to explode.)**

YIKES! Please don't apologize for reading YA. I've said it before, and I'll stand on a high mountain to yodel it across the air...There is a tremendous amount of wisdom in YA books. For example, Kira, Kira, Out of the Dust, Missing May, The Adoration of Jenna Fox, The Wednesday Wars, Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boys, Number the Stars....

Oh, I could go on and on and on.

#228: LOL!

#229: I was not apologizing for reading young adult. I was apologizing for the number of young adult reads this week.

There are some weeks when all I've read is YA. I'm still on a quest for finish all the Newbery books.

I very much enjoy your listing of YA reads. I hoped to get a copy of Good Night, Mister Tom, but it wasn't transferred from my one library to the other. Drat, that was going to be my Sunday read.

Have a great day Stasia. I hope your week is calmer than last one.

Hugs

#231: Sorry that you could not get hold of Good Night, Mr. Tom to read today. Maybe next Sunday?

Thanks, Linda. I hope you have a wonderful day too.

Oh NO!! It's *SUNDAY* and I've strayed into Stasia's thread!!

*flees shrieking*

Another great reading week Stasia.

First, I have to ditto RBBRuth's comments about Cold Mountain the movie back in post 211! One of the movies I rarely purchase, a good period piece and I thought better than the book. I hope you have the inkling to view it some day.

I already have the Kingsolver's on my Tipping Tower, so I'll just add Pnin and call it a day. Have a great week.

#233: You are so silly. You knew it was Sunday and this was just where you wanted to be :)

#234: I hope you like Pnin, Lynda!

>233 richardderus: lol

I just have a short time to come play on LT today because I've got to head out to the airport, and I was in 2 minds whether or not I had time to visit your thread since I usually end up going through the books you've read, and having to painstakingly add them to different categories in my obese wish list. Still, I took a deep breath and braved the visit....

Just a glancing blow this time, Stasia ...... just High Tide in Tuscon made it to my obese wish list.

and off I flit!!!

Great list this week, Stasia. Unfortunately I was struck with four (or was it 5?) BB's after dodging for a couple of weeks.

Oh well. Life would be deadly dull without our stacks (and stacks and stacks...) of TBR's.

Have a great week.

#238: Safe travels, Caroline. I know you are busy today and am flattered you took the time to visit. I hope you enjoy High Tide in Tucson if and when you get around to it!

#239: Well, I am glad I nailed someone this week, Gail :)

Stasia, I left a message/post for you over on Luxx's thread, *clears throat and blushes at her little mistake.

Your Sunday list is great. Just Awesome.

I'll be back soon ... the B'day party is calling to me.

Love,

And, HT ... of course -

Ruthie

*sigh*

More books added to my never ending and ever growing TBR pile. I think I might move North and South to the top.

Hi Stasia - some lovely books here. I've just caught up on your previous two Sundays postings, as well but not all the messages inbetween - just too many. I only bought two books while I was away, both by Llosa - Aunt Julia and the Scriptwriter and In praise of the stepmother. There were very few books in English available, mostly forgettable romance & mystery paperbacks but I couldn't walk away from these two.
I haven't been tempted by Alice I have been, the reviews seemed to be fairly negative.

Shan is currently writing 3 or 4 books about Mr Crepsley's past which should be fun for the fans.

Looks like a good reading list this week!

I have North and South on my wishlist already after Ellie's review. This week I'll be adding Goodnight Mr. Tom. I really liked Cold Mountain, but I've not seen the movie. It's been several years since I read it.

>227 alcottacre: That picture really made me laugh! Now I know what's in store for my future.... :D

About Ada. I really do not like weak characters. She seemed to me to be a person that allows things to happen to her, but takes no responsibility for any of the results. I believe if Ruby hadn't come along, Ada would have died of starvation or something. It's annoying to read an entire book sort of centered around someone who does nothing. Fortunately, Cold Mountain had other redeeming qualities.

The movie was well done - Renee Zellweger (as I've never seen her before or since) plays Ruby and pretty much makes the movie. Of course, many of the things that I found fascinating about the book were not in the movie. And it's been a long time, so don't make me cough up details supporting that last comment.

Putting flack jacket on Monday shopping list...

Geez, you take a nice leisurely 3-hour drive into WI, check into the hotel, do vacation things, have dinner and then quickly check LT before settling in to read and Stasia has 56 messages. Yikes!!

Fortunately, nothing to add to Mt TBR.

Tomorrow, I will see the college roommate I hardly ever see and, later, meet up with some cousins (including the one who was actually a member of the Electoral College).

Now, I just need to choose which Kindle book to start. Hmmm.....

I hope you have a lovely time Linda.

Caught up for the moment on your fabulous thread, Stasia.

However, if I have insomnia tonight, heaven forbid, I'll see you before morning. *Sighs resignedly*

HT and sweet dreams to you. You don't work Sunday nights do you???

Ruthie

#242: Cindy! Great to see you here. I hope you enjoy North and South - I do not think you will regret moving it to the top of the stack.

#243: Kerry, I think you will like Aunt Julia and the Scriptwriter. Let me know how that other one of his is if you would. I have not heard of it.

#244: Yes, I did Jim. Thanks for stopping by!

#245: I hope you (and the girls?) will like Good Night, Mr. Tom. Push North and South to the top, too!

#246: Are you shaking in your boots yet, Zoe?

#247: I much preferred Ruby to Ada, whom I did not care for and really never got a feel for, in the book. If you would like to see Renee Zellweger in a good film, check out Miss Potter, a biographical film about Beatrix Potter, Jenn.

#248: I guess it was a good thing it was not a leisurely 6-hour drive, huh Linda? Have a great time with your family. Safe journeys.

#250: Yes, Ruth, I do work Sunday nights. I hope you are not up visiting me though :)

In 34 minutes, LT will be going down for an hour. I will be going through withdrawal symptoms the entire time!!

No bullets for me this week. I read The Phantom Tollbooth to my daughters a few years ago and loved it. I read Cold Mountain myself a few years ago as well and it was definitely one of my all time favorites. I also enjoyed the movie which was surprising as I rarely enjoy a movie as much as the book. I do recommend that you watch it if you have the opportunity.

Is anyone else finding LT odd this morning? On this thread, it says that your last post was at 11:27 p.m. today. Well, since it is 8:34 a.m. EST, I find that a little hard to believe! I wonder if the clock got messed up when LT was down (or if it is something stupid with my computer once again)?

#254: LT is doing strange things this morning. I posted about a book I am reading on the Young Adult thread and the Touchstones did not work. I edited the post making a note about the Touchstones, and when I submitted then the Touchstones worked!

I just had that happen with a message -- it never posted (for over ten minutes) and so I rewrote it, reposted and they BOTH appeared.......

Good news, Stasia -

Your hope that you not "see" me on LT in the middle of the night must have worked. I actually was able to stay in bed last night. I read some and then slept through to this morning. Yeah! Thanks for holding out the hope for me.

I've been struggling with LT, also. I wondered if it was my 'pooter or LibraryThing. Oh, well. Hope it will resolve itself. I'm too tired to pursue it to find out what is going on.

HT and hope that your get some good rest today, woman.

R

#257: I shall be thinking good thoughts for you again tonight, Ruthie! Maybe I will cure your insomnia :)

I think LT is the problem this morning, not your computer.

I'm with you on what the problem really is. Maybe they are adding another server or something that is good news as that would make things work better, eh?

Love, R

Sweet sleep to you, too.

#259: I will get some sleep some time today, I am sure. I appreciate the good thoughts!

I have seen Miss Potter - loved it.

I am looking for a good book - biography - about Queen Victoria. I figured this would be a good place to toss that out. Love any ideas from anyone. We watched The Young Victoria last night. It was very good, but I realized I knew very little beyond the basic story.

Thanks!

One good thing that can be said about Ada Monroe (in a kind of back-handed way) is that because she was such a weakling she made the Ruby character necessary. Personally, I love Ruby and Inman. I liked the movie a lot too - every time I watch it I'm always kind of hoping that it will come out differently. I don't care for the preacher played by Phillip Seymour Hoffman, but mostly because I really can't stand PSH and always try to avoid movies with him in them.

#262: I am right there with you concerning Ruby and Inman, Charlotte.

Okay all caught up. Was busy yesterday working on my house stuff and taking time to relax and spend time with the family a little. Stasia I dodge the bullets again this week. Pleased don't ever apologize for reading to many YA books. I love YA books. I go through spurts where that is all I want to read and then I go back to more adult books. As a matter of fact the YA books have been getting me through my rough patch here as of late. So, read YA as much as you want I will think nothing less of you. MUAH!!!

#264: I just finished up another good YA one this morning, Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson. Have you read that one, Monica?

Zoe???? I think you need a nap, Stasia.....
Although, I have to say I like the name. If I didn't already like my own name so much, I'd consider changing it.

#266: Sorry, Charlotte. I was talking with Zoe on another thread and just confused myself :) I humbly apologize!! (and I will fix it forthwith)

Stasia, I read Fever several years ago and remember most the contribution of the Free African Society. Another example of history missing the true heroes!

#268: I really liked the fact that Anderson put the appendix at the end of the book to clarify who did what (I was going to mention it in my weekly post, as a matter of fact). She commended the Free African Society for their work as true heroes during the crisis.

Stasia, no I haven't read Fever 1793. I really am into more werewolves, Vampires and so on as well as murder mystery. I have been trying to branch out here and there but with my TBR pile so enormous as it is and very little money to buy and time right now to even go look at the library. I have been trying not to add to much to my never ending TBR pile... LOL.. But thanks for the suggestion. :)

Re Fever: I live only a few blocks away from where the 'Bush Hill Hospital' was -- http://www.ushistory.org/carpentershall/history/fever.htm ... if you scroll down there is a little bit about it. 17th and Fairmount are so much a part of 'center city' now, it is most strange to think of that as being 'in the country' -- where our house now is, was still open land then!

When we read it (daughter and self) it was especially amazing to be able to pinpoint all the places.

Fever 1793 looks like a good one, thanks for the tip Stasia:)

Eeek - so behind again! Belatedly sorry to hear about your nephew and glad everything seems to have worked out ok there.

#199 Apology not accepted! You've read some great YA books this week. Goodnight Mister Tom and The Phantom Tolbooth are some of my favourite books :-)

I am going to look out for the How to Train Your Dragon series at the library and you've reminded me that I've been meaning to try the J.D. Robb In Death series for a while - should I read them in order? And to try more Kingsolver, I loved The Poisonwood Bible but I still haven't read anything else of hers.

And I need to keep up with your thread more! (And everyone else's including mine...!)

Stasia, I added Fever 1793 to my Wishlist, where things get parked until I need a new book to read.

Sounds good.

Later ... (BTW) I'm able to keep up pretty well now ... spending lots more time here since I slept through the night. tee hee.

Happy Trails and love,

R

Adding Fever 1793 to my list; it's available at our library!

Stasia

I enjoyed Fever 1793 when I read it in 2008. Have you read Speak? That is another good one!

Well, you were right that Fever 1793 looks like one I would enjoy!

>252 alcottacre:, I'll bet my oldest (11) will enjoy Goodnight Mr. Tom. She loves WWII literature.

#270: No problem, Monica. The book will still be there when you have the time and inclination to read it!

#271: Lucy, one of the things I was going to mention when I do the weekly post next is that there is a Google Lit trip available for Fever 1793 that allows you to see on the map (Google Earth) where the action in the book takes place. I thought that was so cool! Thanks for sharing the link to where the Bush Hill hospital was. I will definitely check it out.

#272: I hope you like it, Bente!

#273: Heather, I highly recommend that you read the 'In Death' series in order - especially the first few books so that you really come in at the beginning of the relationships because one of the reasons I like the series so much is that Robb allows the characters and their relationships to grow throughout.

#274: Ruthie, it is wonderful to see you here and keeping up! Sleep lots tonight :)

#275: Terri, you will have to let me know if you like it.

#276: No, I have not read that one yet.

#277: Good! Go forth and read it, Zoe!

#278: Good Night, Mr. Tom is set in WWII, but not necessarily a WWII story if that makes any sense, Anne. I still think your daughter would like it though - and it is a good 'discussion' book.

Quote for the day from Daddy Long-Legs by Jean Webster:

"One book isn't enough. I have four going at once. Just now, they're Tennyson's poems and Vanity Fair and Kipling's Plain Tales and - don't laugh - Little Women. I find that I am the only girl in college who wasn't brough up on Little Women. . . I just quietly went and bought it with $1.12 of my last month's allowance; and the next time somebody mentions pickled limes, I'll know what she is talking about!"

One book is never enough, IMHO!

Posted to the Kitchen too

Another super quote!
--BJ

Thanks, BJ!

I started to add Daddy Long-Legs to my wishlist, but when I saw the cover I recognized it! It must be around here somewhere!
--BJ

#284: It is amazing to me how often the title of a book means nothing to me, but once I see the cover I go "I have that one here somewhere!" :)

#281: What a great quote! Daddy Long-Legs was one of my mother's favorite books growing up, so she made sure I had a copy, too. I think I'll go upstairs and find it, now... time for a reread!

#281 Before I joined this group, I used to think of my multiple books reading habit something of an anomaly. One book can just never be enough!

#286: I had never read the book before, so it was a first read for me. I am going to check out the sequel from the library today. I hope you enjoy your re-read, Alexandra!

#287: I know what you mean about thinking your multiple book reading was an anomaly, Piyush. Even my mother, who taught me to read at 3, was strictly a 1-book at a time reader, so growing up I really was the odd gal out, never reading less than 6 or 8 at a time.

Daddy Long-Legs was recommended to me by a friend as one of her favourite books ever, guess I will give it a try too sometime this year...

#289: It is a young adult book, the story told essentially in letters. I liked it.

I believe I will give it a try then.

I have been recommended another story in letters by another friend, Lady Susan, any thoughts on that?

#291: I read Lady Susan a couple of years ago. It was written when Austen was just getting her feet under herself as a writer and it shows. The novel is not really bad, but not what I had come to expect from Austen. Give it a try and see what you think of it. The book is not that long as I recall, so it would not take forever for you to get through.

I love Ken Bruen's Jack Taylor series though I probably wouldn't recommend them to you, Stasia, because of the language and attitudes, and I certainly wouldn't recommend his other series, which starts with A White Arrest, to you, though I would say both are very good to people who I think would like them.

I bought the first 3 Train Your Dragon books very cheaply here from a bargain book company - I think if you're saying 6-10 Danny might enjoy having them read to him in a couple of years' time (he turns 3 next Tuesday).

#293: Luci, I really am a terrible judge of ages on kids books, so you might actually check and see what you think of them once you have them in house. I am pretty sure that 3 (happy birthday, Danny!) is going to be to young for them, though.

I picked up book 3 of the Taylor series at the library book sale the other day for $1. I am going to give it a try - I hope skipping book 2 will not prove too detrimental - and see what I think after I finish it.

#200, 273 Glad you enjoyed High Tide in Tucson so much - I really love Kingsolver's essays, as well as all her novels. One of the few times I've felt I wanted to write to an author to say how much I appreciated their work was after reading High Tide (or was it Small Wonder? Sadly I never did get round to doing so, but she certainly inspired me.

I'd definitely recommend anyone who has only read The Poisonwood Bible to check out her other writings.

I think Danny's too young now but I think in a year or two he'll be ready to have longer books read to him in chapters, and that a little bit of a challenge is quite good. I didn't learn to read until I was 5, but then we went abroad for a year starting when I was 5.5 and I just devoured all sorts of stuff including things which would probably be more normally offered to preteens.

#295: I have not read a book by Kingsolver yet that I have not liked, although I have not yet read them all. I bought another book of her essays not too long ago, so have at least one more nonfiction book of hers to read before I start on more of her fiction.

#296: Yes, I think waiting a year or two for those books is a good plan. I think he will enjoy them once he gets to them though!

Books for $1.12 sounds good to me!

I've been in Texas a week visiting my Mom (still here in Texas in fact) so haven't really had access to a computer. I've spent the last hour reading the 242 messages in your thread I hadn't read yet.

I'm glad the problems with your nephew have beem resolved.

You had a GREAT reading week. I can't imagine reading Cold Mountain and a few dozen other books in one week.

#298: Don't we wish we could routinely pick up books for $1.12 these days!

I hope you have a wonderful visit with you mom, Deborah! Does she live in the Houston area? For some reason that sticks in my mind.

Dropping by for a Heads-Up...and you seriously need a new thread. I'm on Dial-Up and thought i would need a Wagon Train to get here!

Specifics Later
;-}

#300: OK, I can take a hint :)

New thread (#11!!) here: http://www.librarything.com/topic/89880

I can occasionally get books for $1.12 at the used book store, but they usually aren't very good books.

Wagon train? Guess it is time to take pity on JD and other dial-up readers.