brenzi's Impossible Dream - Seventh Inning Stretch

This is the seventh thread for 2010 for me, as unbelievable as that seems (to me anyway).

My first thread can be found here.

My second thread can be found here.

My third thread can be found here.

My fourth thread can be foundhere.

My fifth thread can be found here.

My sixth thread can be found here.

My 10/10 Challenge is here http://www.librarything.com/topic/79324

"It would be a good thing to buy books if one could also buy the time to read them; but one usually confuses the purchase of books with the acquisition of their contents." Arthur Schopenhauer, 'On Books and Writing' (1851) in A Book Addict's Treasury. (stolen borrowed from bonniebooks' thread)







My Take It or Leave It Challenge for January:

Still Life by Louise Penny
Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Take It or Leave It Challenge for February:

The Liars' Club by Mary Karr
Ordinary Thunderstorms by William Boyd
American Salvage by Bonnie Jo Campbell

Take It or Leave It Challenge for April

In Other Rooms, Other Wonders by Daniyal Mueenuddin
The Lotus Eaters by Tatiana Soli

Take It or Leave It Challenge for May

Rebecca by Daphne DuMaurierre
The Leisure Seeker by Michael Zadoorian
Too Close to the Falls by Catherine Gilinder
Secret Daughter by Shilpi Somaya Gowda
No Great Mischief by Alistair MacLeod

Take It or Leave It Challenge for June

The Sparrow by Mary Doria Russell
Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro
The Uncommon Reader by Alan Bennett
Troubles by J.G. Farrell

Take It Or Leave It Challenge for July

The Lizard Cage by Karen Connelly
Fingersmith by Sarah Waters
Fault Lines by Nancy Huston
Fugitive Pieces by Anne Michaels
The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield

Take It Or Leave It Challenge for August

Burmese Lessons by Karen Connelly
Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell
The Long Song by Andrea Levy
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
The Worst Hard Time by Timothy Egan

Take It Or Leave It Challenge for September

Old School by Tobias Wolff
The Devil in the White City by Eric Larson
The Slap by Christos Tsiolkas
Packing for Mars by Mary Roach

Take It Or Leave It Challenge for October

Trespass by Rose Tremain
All the King's Men by Robert Penn Warren
Dracula by Bram Stoker
The Siege by Helen Dunmore

Books Read This Year:

54. The Siege by Helen Dunmore - Russia - 4.5 stars
53. Dracula by Bram Stoker - UK/Transylvania - 4 stars
52. All the King's Men by Robert Penn Warren - 4.5 stars
51. Trespass by Rose Tremain - France/UK - 4 stars
50. Packing for Mars by Mary Roach - 4 stars
49. The Slap by Christos Tsiolkas - Australia - 2 stars
48. The Devil in the White City by Eric Larson - 4.5 stars
47. Bury Your Dead by Louise Penny - Canada - 5 stars
46. Old School - Tobias Wolff - 4 stars
45. The Brutal Telling by Louise Penny - Canada - 4.5 stars
44. A Visit From the Goon Squad by Jennifer Egan - 4 stars
43. The Worst Hard Time by Timothy Egan - 4.5 stars
42. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen - UK - 4.5 stars
41. The Long Song by Andrea Levy - Jamaica - 3.5 stars
40. A Rule Against Murder by Louise Penny - Canada - 4 stars
39. Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell - UK, US, Belgium 5 stars
38. Burmese Lessons by Karen Connelly - Burma - 3.5 stars
37. The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield - UK - 4 stars
36. Fugitive Pieces by Anne Michaels - Poland/Greece/Canada-4stars
35. Fault Lines by Nancy Huston - Germany - 4 stars
34. Fingersmith by Sarah Waters - UK - 4.5 stars
33. Mr. Peanut by Adam Ross - 4 stars
32. The Lizard Cage by Karen Connelly - Burma - 4.5 stars
31. Troubles by J.G. Farrell - Ireland - 5 stars
30. The Uncommon Reader by Alan Bennett - UK - 4 stars
29. Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro - UK - 3.5 stars
28. The Sparrow by Mary Doria Russell - Italy - 3.5 stars
27. The Imperfectionists by Tom Rachman - Italy - 4.5 stars
26. No Great Mischief by Alistair MacLeod - Canada - 5 stars
25. Secret Daughter by Shilpi Somaya Gowda - India - 3 stars
24. Too Close to the Falls by Catherine Gilinder - 4 stars
23. The Leisure Seeker by Michael Zadoorian - 4 stars
22. Rebecca by Daphne DuMaurier - UK - 4.5 stars
21. Chess Story by Stefan Zweig - at sea - 4 stars
20. The Lotus Eaters by Tatjana Soli - Viet Nam - 4 stars
19. Tinkers by Paul Harding - 4 stars
18. The Cruelest Month by Louise Penny - Canada - 4 stars
17. The Plague by Albert Camus - Africa - 4.5 stars
16. In Other Rooms, Other Wonders by Daniyal Mueenuddin-Pakistan-4st.
15. The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest by Stieg Larsson-Sweden-5 st.
14. The Spare Room by Helen Garner - Australia - 4 stars
13. Dead Cold by Louise Penny - Canada - 4 stars
12. Midnight's Children by Salman Rushdie - India - 2 stars
11. The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Sloot - 4.5 stars
10. American Salvage by Bonnie Jo Campbell - 4.5 stars
9. Even the Dogs by Jon McGregor - UK - .5 stars
8. Ordinary Thunderstorms by William Boyd - UK - 4 stars
7. The Liars' Club by Mary Karr - 4 stars
6. Where the God of Love Hangs Out by Amy Bloom - 4 stars
5. Blame by Michelle Huneven - 3.5 stars
4. Sea of Poppies by Amitav Ghosh - India - 4.5 stars
3. Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie -Nigeria - 4 stars
2. Still Life by Louise Penny Canada 4 stars
1. Let the Great World Spin by Colum McCann - 5 stars

Found you! Am I really the first visitor to your new Dream?

I have you starred now.

#255 from last thread, sibyx wrote: While living in Philadelphia I developed a strange ailment -- cursing in the car in bad traffic.

Having driven in Philadelphia for a number of years, that doesn't seem strange at all!

Found and starred once again! The Mary Roach book looks very interesting...

I would like to live in the mind of Mary Roach. I think she's good at research but more importantly, she still has the curiosity of a child, and has the ability to write in a manner that lays everything scientific and technical out so lay people can appreciate and understand.

>3 tymfos:: Having driven in Philadelphia for a number of years, that doesn't seem strange at all! ... I agree!

"Mooning Mecca?" Oh my! ;-) Sounds funny! Though given what she's made funny before, I'm not surprised. Have to admit, that's probably a books I'll just peruse at the books store or borrow from the library. Wish you lived closer, so you could entertain me with all the funny bits.

I heard an interview in which Mary Roach was asked how she got her unique take on things, she said it's because she has the curiosity of a 12 year old boy. I have 2 of her books, Stiff and Bonk but haven't read either yet. Has anyone read the one she did about the paranormal?

Very helpful review! As a confirmed lover of space opera, this one ought to be right up my alley. (And I have starred you!)

Bonnie- Congrats on Number Seven! Good review of Packing for Mars. I have this one reserved from my library. I really enjoyed Bonk a couple months ago. I see you are starting Trespass, that's another one high on my WL. You make some great book choices!

Hi, Bonnie. Found your new thread and thumbed your review of Packing for Mars. Looking forward to reading it soon.

Thumbs up for the review, Bonnie! Doncha love Mary now? (I can call her that, we're engaged. Only she doesn't know yet.)

The interview on NPR with Mary Roach, along with Richard and Stephen's reviews are what pushed her book up the teetering tower for me. Such a fresh voice; engaging, too.

Thanks for the thumbs!

>10 msf59: You make some great book choices!

That's easy here on LT Mark. All I do is listen to the other 75ers who have built up my TBR so that I can barely wedge the door to the spare room open.

Found you! I need to get to Mary Roach!

I am anxiously awaiting Packing for Mars to get to my local library. I really want to read that one!

found!

Ah, another Roach to look forward to. Great review!

Hi Bonnie, starring your new thread and putting Mary Roach on my radar!

Here's one of those little book quizzes that I thought was pretty good when I got it in a newsletter this morning.

On your nightstand now: Trespass by Rose Tremain (my ER book and also a TIOLI book) and All the King's Men by Robert Penn Warren, a TIOLI book for the Pulitzer Prize winner the year you were born

Favorite book when you were a child: Nancy Drew mysteries

Your top five authors: Richard Russo, Kate Grenville, Andrea Barrett, Louise Erdrich, and William Boyd

Book you've faked reading: Moby Dick by Herman Melville; I just could not get into it, even though I tried to many times

Book you're an evangelist for: American Salvage by Bonnie Campbell. I have foisted this book on people as if I'm going to get part of the profits. It is a book that had a profound effect on me as it portrayed the down and out and the almost there in Michigan.

Book you've bought for the cover: I believe you can't tell a book by its cover.

Favorite line from a book: "I had dreams of attending a university, studying law and acquiring a degree. But my station was lowly-my ideas soared so high above it I could see them lamenting and waving good-bye."-Gilbert Joseph, page 121), Small Island

Book that changed your life: I'm afraid I haven't read it yet; therefore, it's something to look forward to.

Book you most want to read again for the first time: The Idea of Perfection by Kate Grenville

Hi, Bonnie. I totally agree with you about American Salvage and I too loved the Nancy Drew books. I have The Idea of Perfection on my WL (probably because of you) but you're making me want to move it up! Great quiz.

You've never picked up a book because of its cover, Bonnie? Or passed one by for the same reason? I'm totally impacted by the cover of a book. It's not the only factor, obviously, but it can definitely tip the balance.

What a treat of a review! I have to have to have to get ahold of some Mary Roach, why am I dragging my heels?

So you all think it had something to do with being in that city of brotherly love? Not menopause? or frontal lobe deterioration? I have been better, it is true since we've been up here, but I'm still struggling to clean it up. Weirdly it is only in the car that I lose it, unless, say, I drop something really heavy on my foot.

I think I do have 'cover' prejudice that I am barely even conscious of -- I mean -- I don't buy a book that has a woman wearing very little on it -- there's the occasional sci-fi space opera that'll have a fairly stupid cover that I ignore -- but I am a sucker for a certain kind of paperback that is slightly larger than usual and says "I'm for the discerning reader' -- the Virago series did that to me, I know I picked out my first one in the 80's because I was drawn to the cover, curious about it. I found Jane Gardam that way too -- the paperback edition was very well done..... I couldn't resist picking it up, just to feel it..... so somebody out there definitely has my number! But I'm OK with that.

Bonnie-Enjoyed the quiz! I might have to try that one over on my thread! I loved American Salvage, of course thanks to you! I have not read either Grenville or Boyd! Bad Mark! But I did love Moby Dick!

>19 brenzi:: I liked this quiz, Bonnie, and your answers to it. This is one that takes some thought. I have so many great book quotes in my notebook that I would have trouble picking just one, although I like your choice. I'm with you on Moby Dick!

As far as covers go, I rarely buy a book or take a book out of the library that I haven't known about ahead of time. I have lists that I use and with LT and the interminable TBR pile/wishlist I just don't get books that I'm totally unfamiliar with. So the cover just doesn't play a role in the decision making process. Now the type of paperback it is will make a difference. No mass market paperbacks for these old eyes; must have a trade paperback.

Thumbs up from me on your excellent review!

51.



Trespass by Rose Tremain

From my review:

Rose Tremain’s latest novel (dark, dark, dark) draws parallel lines and connections between two families. Veronica Verey and her brother Anthony were born and raised in the English countryside and are both successful adults in their late 50’s, she a designer of gardens, and he a dealer in antiquities who maintains his shop in London. She is living in southern France with her friend Kitty, a water colorist and photographer.

Read more here.

Bonnie- Excellent review of Trespass! It's all-ready on the WL! I may have to bump it up a little!

Bonnie, you did such an excellent job making me want to read Rose Tremain that I think she should hire you to be her publicist. Deft. Well handled. Brava!

OMG Richard did you get the part where I said dark,dark,dark?? It's not an uplifting story. But I happen to like dark. The world is filled with unsavoury characters and they make for a terrific story usually:)

Oh yes indeedy! That's what made me up-gethumb your review, and think you should pimp Tremain! Lots of stuff about her books makes them sound, if not chirpy, then at least upbeat, and that sounds dreary to me. The inherent drama of this situation is better presented honestly as dark, which you did, without making it sound like yet another four-hankies-and-a-pistol book.

Well done, ma'am.

Great review, Bonnie, and a thumb from me. I have The Road Home on my shelf so will read that one first but glad you liked Trespass.

Really good review! Almost made me want to read it.. but due to circumstances beyond my control.. I am not reading dark at this time. Who knows what next year will bring though...

>32 phebj: I read and enjoyed the very uplifting The Road Home last year; not like this book at all Pat.

>33 mckait: I hear you Kath. Sometimes I'm just in the mood for a light, happy read too:)

Hey, Bonnie -

Long time between posts from me to you.

I love Rose Tremain and am not surprised to find that you have recently reviewed one by her. I will go check out the review in a bit, maybe tomorrow. I have Restoration on the stack by the bed right now, just haven't begun reading it yet.

Anyway, I am so happy to have been able to track you and some of my other LT friends down. I miss being able to keep up with your threads. I'm hoping that I am able to post more frequently and not be so out of touch.

Stop by my place some time when you are so inclined.

point and click HERE

Great review of Trespass, Bonnie! I am with Richard - you should work for Tremain :)

>35 womansheart: You're right Ruth. It is a long time between posts. I hope to see more of you on LT. I also have Restoration on my shelf and hope to get to it....well I'm not saying when because who knows? Maybe a TIOLI challenge will come up that it will fit into.

>36 alcottacre: Hmmmm work for Tremain?? That could be more profitable than the job I presently have. LOL

Bonnie
Your comments are always so incredible. It is no surprise why you receive so many hot reviews.

I can almost feel the heat from that gif Linda. You always say the nicest things.

I live in a part of New York State where people love to come and see the leaves change color each fall. It's always a breathtakingly beautiful display and we're smack dab in the middle of it. This year, though, they're getting off to a slow start for two reasons: wind and rain. Good Lord how long has it been raining here?? I can't remember when it didn't rain. In the meantime, torrential winds have pulled a lot of the leaves off the trees prematurely. Too many bare branches do not please the leaf peepers.

It makes the best time of the year (in my opinion), not so great. And it makes people a little snarky. They're anxious to get outside in the sun with a jacket or a sweatshirt on rather than a raincoat. Again. They're saying we may get a peek at the sun tomorrow. Maybe. Keeping my fingers crossed.

#40: They're saying we may get a peek at the sun tomorrow.

I hope you do, Bonnie!

Wishing you sunny skies, Bonnie!

Great review of Trespass, Bonnie!

Ahh finally we did get a sunny day. I can only hope the sun will stay a little while.

>43 kidzdoc: Thanks Darryl.

Yes, a day of sun!! Happy happy happy.

Or I would be if I didn't have to take Jasper-the-cat to the vet (he's been losing weight) and if a mouse hadn't decided to start tap dancing somewhere in my bedroom at nights. Needless to say, the cats are sleeping peacefully through the ruckus.

Anyway, glad to find out where you had got to! These new threads... I keep misplacing people.

Yay another sunny day PLUS 3 day weekend!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Maybe I'll be able to make a dent in my 700 page tome All the King's Men. About 200 pages in it's very good.

#46: Congratulations on the sunny day and the long weekend, Bonnie. I hope you get a ton of reading done!

They are predicting temps near 80 here.. that makes me unhappy.
It is way too soon to too hot to go revisit it, in my opinion.

It's going to be 80 degrees here in MO today, too. But I'm lovin' it after too many days this past summer flirting with 100 degrees and humidity at the same level!

Walked the dog early while it was still cool and crisp. Heading out now to do some light work in the yard so I can enjoy my afternoon of heavy reading!

Enjoy your 3 days off, Bonnie!

Hi Bonnie!

70s and sunny here which will be perfect 'cause I'll be outside most of the day. When I'm still outside at 9-10 tonight, though, I'll be wrapped up in fleece and hopefully not shivering!

Three days - enjoy! My husband has Monday off, too, but generally Columbus Day is ignored here in the Rocky Mtn region.

Loved your review of Trespass. And I was glad for the reminder - I'd forgotten about it after I requested but didn't win it from ER. On the lookout ...

No there aren't going to be any 80s here this weekend. Just perfect 65-70 degree days with sunshine. Very nice.

>50 Copperskye: Joanne, what's going on outside at 10:00 tonight. By then it'll be pretty darn cool here; frost tonight, which will be our first. That means we can pick our Concord grapes which don't get sweet until they're hit by the first frost. Ignore Columbus Day?? Why in the world would that be the case? It's a perfect reason for a day off:)

>51 madhatter22: Shauna, I hope you like it:)

>52 brenzi: - It's HS marching band season, Bonnie. The weather wasn't too bad, the wind from the afternoon died down, thank goodness.

You grow grapes? How many vines do you have?

Sigh. I miss HS marching band season...

Glad you got some good weather, Bonnie. My boys are up in northern New York State this weekend. Not exactly sure where; I'll check to see how close they were to you when they get back and tell me all about it. Mmmm! Concord grapes--they are my absolute favorite grapes. We only get them here for less than 2 weeks, and I think I missed them this year, darn it! Trespass sounds good, though somewhere in the back of my mind, I remember deciding earlier in the year that I wasn't going to read it.

>53 Copperskye: Ahh marching band; I remember it well. This season always reminds me of sitting in the bleachers cheering on the girls' field hockey team. My daughter played from 7th grade on and it was great fun for us as they went to state's finals several times. Enjoy your high school activities; they fly by.

> 53, 55 A few years ago we planted one Concord grape plant. This year we will pick about 3/4 of a bushel. When my children were young I used to buy them and make grape jam. Now that I have them in my own backyard, that won't happen. We'll just eat and enjoy them.

>54 tloeffler: Me too Terri.

>55 bonniebooks: Reviews here on LT are mixed Bonnie, but elsewhere it got rave reviews. I liked it.

>55 bonniebooks:: I liked it, too ...

grape smiley

Awww, I love that. Thanks Kara.

Just waving as I pass through the threads, Bonnie! Have a great one!

In the words of Mark Twain which seem to apply here, rumors of my demise are greatly exaggerated. No I'm still alive and well and deeply ensconced in the Pulitzer Prize winner, All the King's Men by Robert Penn Warren. It's a fabulous read that somewhat parodies the life of Louisianna's kingpin Governor and then Sen. Huey Long and it's fascinating. At almost 700 pages, it's keeping me fairly busy but I thought I should come up for air to revive my thread.

at 700 pages that's a door stop :) it has a hold of you that much? hmmm let me take a look at it, i like door stops every once in awhile

glad you popped into your thread. I picked that one up.. you enticed me up there a bit..

Very tired... might have to zzzzzzz

>61 brenzi:: I've thought about reading that book, Bonnie ... I had it in hand in a used bookshop when my husband walked over and pronounced it "turgid," or something along those lines. I'd say your reviews are a better gauge of whether I'd like it or not :)

I will be interested in seeing your review of All the King's Men too, Bonnie. I own it (or at least, I think I do!) but have never read it.

Bonnie, I just remembered the AtKM version I read back in the 70's was also a made for tv movie with Perry King and another cute guy, whose name escapes me. Back in the day I didn't know who Huey Long so I wouldn't have made the connection. Does anyone remember that movie and is it the same book Bonnie's reading?

Yes, that tv version was made in 1958, and there was also a feature film made in 1949 with Broderick Crawford, which won 3 Oscars.

There's a recent film version of All the King's Men, starring Sean Penn. It's flawed but Penn is always interesting. There's also a bio-pic of Huey Long, called "Kingfish", starring John Goodman. I agree, the '49 version is excellent.
I have not read the book yet!

Well I have the hated movie tie in cover on my book and it's for the 2005 movie with Sean Penn, Jude Law, Kate Winslet and James Gandolfini. I was planning on getting that one when I finished but it sounds like I should look for the 1949 movie with Broderick Crawford. Oh boy I can really picture him as Willie Stark.

>62 curlysue: Kara, I actually love long books because I find I can sink into the story in a way that is not possible with a short book. The problem is, when I'm working, my reading time is limited and so the book drags out over a longer period of time and that makes me sometimes feel as if it'll never end.

>64 lauralkeet: OK Laura, without any context, I had to look up the meaning:

Definition: 1. pompous and overcomplicated: pompous, boring, and overcomplicated a turgid speech.

I would say that was probably true early on as the author explains how Willie spoke to his audience. But the book goes on to explain how he developed his speaking style. "Turgid" is where he started as a Louisiana farm boy. Once you move on from that point the book is pretty compelling.

>63 mckait:, 65 Give it a go. Hopefully, I'll be reviewing it before the end of the week.

>66 Carmenere: I don't know who Perry King is and I'm not familiar with that movie Lynda.

>67 JanetinLondon:, 68 Thanks Janet and Mark :)

>69 brenzi: totally understand :)

been there done that, continue to go there and do that

Bonnie, when I read *AtK'sM* 35 or so years ago, I struggled with the narration. "Turgid" seems right on the mark from my memory. Then in an AP seminar, the leader hyped it as his favorite novel to teach. I tried to reread it then, but bogged down, so I too will be looking forward to your review and my reconsideration.

My memory was killing me, so I googled Perry King and check his filmography and the tv movie I was referring to was Captains and the Kings by Taylor Caldwell. Sheeeesh, was I off. It was a very good book, that I remember. So I now have absolutely no excuses not to read AtKM. Tried to wiggle out but........

>69 brenzi:: Def. go for the 1949. I've seen both and the Penn version isn't bad, but the original is better. Now I just need to read the book!
(Love that you mentioned the hated MTI cover. I agree and avoid them as much as possible. :)

Late to the party once again, but I found you :)

Just wanted to add two thoughts...first, I love the quotes you used in your Mary Roach review! I've seen her interviewed and always mean to read something of hers but haven't gotten around to it yet. Packing for Mars is going on the wishlist.

Also, about "judging a book by its cover," when I am book shopping, the cover is usually what draws me in. But, one of the reasons I love LT is that I mostly end up choosing what I want to read based on all of your reviews and comments. Sometimes, I am surprised at what the covers look like when I get them from the library. I probably wouldn't have picked up some of them if I had only ever seen the covers!

>70 brenzi:: thanks Bonnie!

*wanders in to say hi*

So what do YOU think about the idea of the Tome Home?

I just came from the Tome Home thread and my head is spinning Richard. Wouldn't it be great if someone could harness Suzanne's energy? Other than that I'd like to reserve a room. LOL

>78 richardderus:, 79: Richard didn't ask me, but I'll chime in anyway! I love the idea, but I know my love of solitude will win out. Can I come for some short visits without owning a piece of it? I'd be glad to rent a back room without a view because I'll be too busy talking about books to look at scenery.

Also, Bonnie, I just want you to know that much is riding on your review of All the King's Men. I want to know it's pretty fantastic before I make such a time investment in Louisiana politics! No pressure...

>73 LizzieD: When I finish the book Peggy, I'm going to look up some Sparks notes to find out if there is some symbolism or important ideas that I'm missing but at this point I'm really enjoying the language and the story and especially the characterization of Jack Burden.

>74 Carmenere: That's right Lynda, now you have to set up a timeline;-)

>75 madhatter22: Will do Shauna and I see my library has it.

>76 spacepotatoes: Hi Andrea! Great to see you. I think you'll enjoy Packing for Mars and I'm with you on the book covers. I just seldom browse any more. I'm looking for specific titles.

>77 lauralkeet: You're very welcome my friend.

>80 Donna828: Now Donna you're not going to put me on the spot like that are you??

>82 brenzi:: Nope, if you don't like it I probably won't either. And if you rave about it, then you'll be putting me on the spot!

After all the discussion, I found myself a copy of All The Kings Men..
fingers crossed...

It's average rating on LT is 4.13, relatively high. Just saying...

#81 I just checked and AtKM is available at my local library........so, shall we say, I'll began Jan, 2011. Should be a nice chunkster to get me through the cold, fridged, yucky, gloomy days of winter and holiday withdrawal. Sound good?

There you go Lynda :)

Picked up Packing for Mars today. It's close to the top of the list, but first I am reading Atmospheric Disturbances for my book group next week. I know nothing about it as I was not at the meeting when it was selected. Well, at least I am not prejudiced!!

When anyone uses the word "turgid", it conjures up a mental image of slogging through a knee-deep mixture of mud and molasses. I love words...

I love words, too. I love words that feel like what they are. And voices. Sometimes I can fall into the words spoken by a good voice. I used to belong to a study group where one of the men had the best voice.. deep and soft and it felt like a velvet blanket to me.

Randy Travis.. I do not like Country music... but his voice.. it draws me in .

>88 Berly: Hi there Kim. Good to see you.

> 89, 90 Ahh you're talking about onomatopoeia, a word that sounds like the meaning of the word like sizzle, hiccup, meow, zip....can anyone think of any others??

#91: Buzz, scritch . . .

Oh yeah Stasia...crunch, ouch..

velvet, pop, soothe

James Earl Jones and Sam Elliott, their voices are velvet to me

how about bang?

I think all of Yiddish sounds that way, but I can't spell any of it! Well, maybe kvetch, which means to complain grumpily. And f'tutzed, which means sort of dizzily confused.

>89 Chatterbox:: When anyone uses the word "turgid", it conjures up a mental image of slogging through a knee-deep mixture of mud and molasses. I love words...
I had the same image and so never actually consulted a dictionary!

Bonnie- I left a message on my thread, about reading Jane Eyre. I'm very flexible. Anytime from the end of November to mid-December will work for me.
crack, snap, shudder & pop!

52.



All the King's Men by Robert Penn Warren

Wow! What a terrific read! Sure there were a few passages that dragged, but for the most part---unputdownable. From my review:

What does it mean when you get to the end of a long novel and find yourself with tears rolling down your face? That’s what I asked myself last night as I plowed my way to the end of All the King’s Men. I’m usually about as emotional as a wet dishrag, but I was so caught up with the story, so personally involved in the lives of these characters, so taken up with the themes put forth that I was an emotional wreck at the idea of leaving it all.

Read more over here.

Well that was thumb-worthy. And the book doesn't sound at all turgid! May just have to read that sometime, no matter what my OH says.

Fantastic review, Bonnie, and a thumb from me. Of all your reviews that I've read, I don't ever remember you sounding so emotional about a book. Onto the wishlist it goes.

Wow Brenzi! Makes me want to read it again right now! Great review.

I'm so glad you liked AtKM. It's one of my favorites. Years ago, when I collected rare books (thought I ws rich), I suggested to the head of the Limited Editions Club that they publish that book, and the guy's eyes lit up. I think they might have done so after I realized I wasn't rich.

And what a fantastic review. You gave me the shivers.

wonderful review.. Glad I have it on the pile..

Thank you everyone.

>100 lauralkeet: Ok Laura, clue me in. OH=Old Husband? Other Husband? Ornery Husband? Outlandish Husband? Obstinate Husband (got one of those myself;-) What's it stand for?

>101 phebj: I'm not emotional at all Pat. That's the thing.

>102 Berly: Go for it Kim:)

>103 ffortsa: Hi Judy, so you're not rich either eh?

>104 mckait: I'm glad you have it too Kath:)

Bonnie- Great review! I have put in on the WL. Did you see msg #98? I replied to a question you had.

Bonnie, I'm assuming OH=Other Half.

Ohhhhhh. OK.

That makes sense but I like your guesses, too, Bonnie!

Sounds like you had a great read! And you wrote another wonderful review!

>107 phebj:: correct, although Bonnie suggested some interesting alternatives! The possibilities are endless ...

I'm late to the party, Bonnie, but I'm really glad you gave All the King's Men such a resounding review as I've been wanting to read it for ages -- it's one of my oldest and longest owned books.

I won't get to it this month, but it will be read this winter when I settle into my semi-hibernation phase beginning with the first snow storm. I saw a black wooly worm last week which I've been assured is a sure sign of a long, hard winter which I'm going to embrace as an opportunity to get more reading done.

Wow! Great review, Bonnie. I will have to dig out my copy of that one since I know I have never read it. Of course, digging it out might take a while. *sigh*

Just poking my head in to say hello.

>106 msf59: Hi Mark, yep I'm all set for December.

>109 Copperskye:, 110 Thanks Joanne. I had DH im my head that's why I came up with all the husbands, lol.

>111 Donna828: Hmmm black wooly worm, eh. That's not good news for us. Where we live we like to say our first frost drifts;-)

>112 alcottacre: How far into the black hole is it Stasia?

>113 mckait: Good morning Kath. Even on your day off you're up at the crack??

#114: It is not the depths of the BlackHole that is the problem in this case, Bonnie. It is which stack the book is in in my library. It could be a while before I uncover it!

>114 brenzi:: I have a DH for sure as those are my Dear Husband's initials!

Bonnie, I spent 3 winters in Marquette, Michigan on the banks of Lake Superior so I'm familiar with those snow drifts that come early and stay late. It's given me a huge appreciation for our lighter winters in Missouri.

Always up early, as I don't want to waste my days off sleeping :)

Happy Saturday!

Great review of All the King's Men, Bonnie. I've seen both versions of the movie, the first was definitely the best, and I fell in love with Mercedes Mccambridge. It never occurred to me until now to read the book, but now I know I have to. Looks like you've convinced many to do the same.

Mine is the 16th thumb for your excellent review of All the King's Men, Bonnie. I'll probably pick this up tomorrow, and add it to my Classic Americana challenge for 2011.

popping in to catch up :)

nice review of All the King's Men

>116 Donna828: Actually Donna the weatherman around here are predicting a milder than usual winter. Sounds heavenly.

>117 mckait: I, on the other hand, have an absolute need to sleep in just a little on the weekend.

>118 Berly: Hey there Kim!

>119 Citizenjoyce: Thanks Joyce. I've got the 1949 movie home from the library now.

>120 kidzdoc: Oh I love the sounds of your Americana challenge Darryl. What else do you have lined up?

>121 curlysue: Hi there Kara.

#120: With Bonnie, I like the sounds of your Americana challenge as well, Darryl. I will be interested in seeing what titles you have chosen!

#122: I'm working on my categories for next year's 11 in 11 Category Challenge. This is what I have so far:

1. Read a book I already own by 11 different Nobel Prize laureates
2. Read a New York Review Books book that I already own
3. Read a classic American novel that I already own
4. Read a Booker Prize winner that I already own
5. 5. Read a novel by an African-American author that I aleady own
6. Read a novel from the 2011 Booker Prize longlist (or from longlists of previous years)
7. Read a novel from the 2011 Orange Prize longlist (or from longlists of previous years)
8. Read a medicine or science book that I already own
9. Read a biography or autobiography that I already own
10. Read a book published by Archipelago Books in 2009-2011
11. Read a novel by a public intellectual that I already own

#124: I think we already had this discussion once this year, Darryl, so forgive me for asking again, but what is a 'public intellectual?'

I notice that a lot of your categories have 'I already own' qualifiers. I guess that is why you are stocking up this year, right?

Well, I bought a copy of All the King's Men because of you, Bonnie--that, and because Powell's conveniently has a section of prize winners as you're walking out of the "fiction" section.

>127 bonniebooks: Gah, the pressure, the responsibility, the anxiety .......hope you like it Bonnie.

Last night hubby and I finished watching America:the Story of Us. Every school in the country was offered a free copy of the dvd from the History Channel so when ours came I brought it home to watch before it went to the teachers. It was very well done but three dvd's are not enough to tell the story of our country. It pretty much served as a teaser for everything and covered a lot of ground. If you get a chance, it's worth a look though. I'm interested in reading more about the transcontinental railroad, the Triangle shirwaist factory fire, the construction of the Statue of Liberty, the Lewis and Clark expedition, and the construction of the Erie Canal and the interstate highway system.

#129: I will take a look and see if it is available on Netflix. Thanks, Bonnie!

>129 brenzi: Ken Burns did a really nice documentary on the Lewis and Clark expedition a few years ago.

>129 brenzi:: I've had "America" on the DVR since early summer. It's about time we watched it!

>131 ffortsa:: Oh yeah, Judy. Anything Ken Burns undertakes is awesome, but this one was particularly well done.

catching up...

Bonnie - An excellent book pertaining to the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire is Triangle: The Fire that Changed America by David Von Drehle.

#126: From Wikipedia:

The public intellectual handles ideas and knowledge as a participant and communicator in the public debate effected in the mass communications media (print, radio, television, the Internet); occasionally, the public intellectual’s role overlaps the journalist’s purview (though they are not equivalents); therefore: What distinguishes the public intellectual from the private intellectual?

Regardless of the field of expertise, the role of the public intellectual is addressing and responding to the problems of his or her society, as the voice of the people with neither the ability, nor the opportunity, to address said problems in the public fora; hence, they must ‘rise above the partial preoccupation of one’s own profession . . . and engage with the global issues of truth, judgment, and taste of the time’. The purpose of the public intellectual remains debated, especially his or her place in public discourse, thus acceptance or non-acceptance in contemporary society; to wit, Edward Saïd noted that as almost impossible:

{The}...real or ‘true’ intellectual is, therefore, always an outsider, living in self-imposed exile, and on the margins of society’.

I have quite a few books by authors from the 2008 Top 100 Public Intellectuals list that I've been eager to read, so that's why I created that category.

I've been stacking up on books for the past few years (over 300 new books last year), and I'm eager to read the vast majority of them. I'll try (fingers crossed) to limit my book purchases over the next couple of years, so that I can make a dent in my TBR stacks.

When I first read that term Darryl, I immediately thought of William F. Buckley. I'll have to check out your list to see who they include.

>131 ffortsa: Thanks Judy. Anything Ken Burns does is excellent. I'll look for it.

>134 Copperskye: Thanks Joanne. That one will go onto the pile.

#135: I am glad to see Muhammad Yunus on that list. I enjoyed his Banker to the Poor.

The only problem with many public intellectuals is that so many of them set out to become one. It's an accolade that should be awarded by others for real contributions, not for hot air. If I look on that list, I see at least seven or eight people who really haven't broken new intellectual ground in any way, even if they have managed to draw attention to already existing ideas or push something forward into the public consciousness. That's not to say that they aren't worth reading, just that the status of "thinker" isn't there, nor have they really risen above their own profession. In economics, Nouriel Roubini is one that I would disagree with. I'd put Simon Johnson on the list, because he's waaay ahead of the game in thinking through the policy applications of his diagnosis. (I'm not saying I agree with that diagnosis, but he pushes beyond his profession.)

I don't know enough about Roubini to agree or disagree with you in that particular, but I do agree that some names are simply writers who have been able to gain a certain popularity. I don't know that Gladwell, for instance, is more than a pop science reporter, rather than an intellectual.

#136: Right, Bonnie; Buckley would be amongst the first group of people I'd include in the 'public intellectual' category, but he didn't make the 2008 list (possibly because he died early that year) or the 2005 list (maybe because he was no longer an active participant in public debate at that time).

#137: I haven't read anything by Yunus yet; Banker to the Poor will go onto my wish list.

#138, 139: I agree with both of you; Gladwell doesn't belong on that list, several others (of the ones I know) wouldn't make my list, and there are people who really should be on the list, IMO, namely Uwe Reinhardt, Paul Starr, Paul Farmer and Marcia Angell in the fields of medicine, public health and health policy.

So because I don't know of a particular definition of public intellectual I look at the list and see a lot of authors or newsaper columnists. But I don't know, I see Paul Krugmanand Thomas Friedman on the list and immediately think of the Sunday morning political shows. But here's a definition of public intellectual:

well-known expert: an expert within a particular field whose opinions and published works are well known, and who frequently appears in the media to comment on newsworthy issues

The problem I see is that they may be experts in one field but they comment on many issues that have nothing to do with their field of expertise.

Yes. I think some of those names are of people who are treated as experts by the 'Sunday morning' media, as much because of their willingness to be opinionated and telegenic at the same time as because of their actual intellectual value. E.O. Wilson, on the other hand, is a genuine thinker whose more recent books have found a wider audience. Stephen Pinker and Jared Diamond would also fall in that category.

Too bad I haven't actually READ THEIR BOOKS. Maybe I can put them under my pillow and absorb them that way.

That's quite a list. I'm feeling bad because there are so many names I don't recognize. I wonder if I would do better if the list was of American authors/commentators only?

>142 ffortsa: Too bad I haven't actually READ THEIR BOOKS. Maybe I can put them under my pillow and absorb them that way.

Hahahaha. Yeah I've already tried that Judy and I'm afraid it doesn't work.

>143 bonniebooks: Don't feel too bad Bonnie. I don't recognize too many of them either.

The only problem with many public intellectuals is that so many of them set out to become one. It's an accolade that should be awarded by others for real contributions, not for hot air

agreed

And then there are pseudo intellectuals , those who are intellectuals only in their own mind.

Life I think, is way too short to be anything or anyone but oneself. Why try to impress anyone. Just be the best person you can be for yourself.

I have not read the books, and feel no distress over the fact at all . :)

#141 -- interesting definition, Bonnie, though I think it's v.v. broad. By that definition even I might aspire to the status one day, which would be v. wrong. And being well known for having views on a subject is not the same thing as thinking deeply about it -- sadly.

Thomas Friedman's was one name I was surprised to see on there. He's a thoughtful writer, but even his "world is flat" argument was really no more than globalism dressed up in fancy clothes. Samuel Huntington, absolutely.

And being glib and opinionated doesn't make anyone a public intellectual.

53.



Dracula by Bram Stoker

Oh my. I just finished a book about vampires. And it was good. Yes indeedy. From my review:

Bram Stoker’s Gothic novel “Dracula” has never been out of print since it was originally published in 1897. That means the book has been available to readers for over a hundred years. It took me almost that long to give it a whirl and now that I’ve finished it all I can say is, “Wow!” It was not at all what I expected. There was some blood and gore, sure, but the story was so much more than that.

Read more If you want to read more, click on the book title above because I can't get the link to work no matter what.

Bonnie- Excellent review of Dracula and another reminder, that I need to read this book. I should have read it with you! Hope you are having a nice Sunday!

>147 brenzi:: I'm right with you, Bonnie, in being a little perplexed about reading and enjoying a book about vampires. I'm on a little hiatus from it. About halfway through I've found out Lucy's new vocation. Why am I not surprised?

I must have read this book a hundred years ago because I have no memory of how well written it is. I am enjoying it, but I'm not going to make a habit of reading vampire books. You?

>148 msf59:: Mark, it's not too late to jump on the Dracula bandwagon. It would make a perfect read leading up to Halloween.

Wow, fantastic review, Bonnie. I wish I had read it before I hit the bookstore yesterday because I would have bought a copy. It really sounds great. Is it scary or mostly just a good story? If books are too scary I can't sleep. I'm very suggestible (hope that's a word).

>147 brenzi: Thumbs-upped your trenchant review, Bonnie!

>148 msf59: Thanks Mark. You're right you should have read it with me.

>149 Donna828: Hi Donna, still holding ice on your cheek? Ouch. I can see why you decided to take a break from the blood but really that part of it never gets overwhelming (at least IMO). And no, I don't have any intention of reading other vampire books. There's a reason this one is a "classic." The writing's excellent.

>150 phebj: Hi Pat, I didn't really find it scarey at all. Just a great adventure.

>151 richardderus: Thanks Richard. Trenchant, eh?

Yeup...biting, don't ya know.

*flees hurled objects*

I've been lurking for a spell but I break my silence to say I loved your review of Dracula, Bonnie. I'm not a big vampire genre reader but I did enjoy reading Dracula way back when.

I am currently reading Dracula too, Bonnie. I had forgotten how much I liked it!

Great review!

Haven't read that one for a long time... I might have to to so.. NEXT year :P

I'm with Kath, I'm sorry I missed the boat on Dracula this year - I'll sink my teeth into it next Halloween.

>153 richardderus: Nope, no, not hurling anything.

>154 cameling: Hi Caro, no I'm not a vampire genre reader but I am trying to read all the classics that I missed over the years. I think this will be the end of vampires.

>155 alcottacre: Thanks Stasia.

>156 mckait: Hi Kath, Yeah I'm late getting to this one that's for sure

>157 Carmenere: Lynda, I'll sink my teeth into it next Halloween

You didn't really say that did you?

Bonnie - Nice review of Dracula! I started it last Halloween, but then my son got bitten by a cat, and I just couldn't go back to a vampire book. (Completely irrational, I know!) So I read Frankenstein instead. But maybe now it's time to go back to Dracula. I still have a few days left before Halloween!

I read Dracula last year and I, also, found it not quite what I was expecting...and liked it.

I think I'll try reading Dracula on Halloween, Bonnie. Will I be afraid to open the door?

>159 porch_reader: Hey Amy, you can get it in.

>160 TadAD: Hi Tad, isn't it funny how we have some preconceived notions about the classics? When I read Pride and Prejudice earlier, I was so surprised at Austen's biting humor. Who knew?

>161 bonniebooks: Nah, I didn't really find it scarey at all Bonnie.

I had to read Dracula in school so it was years ago when I read it (and loved it!). I have a copy to reread one of these days. Glad to see you liked it too Bonnie and I enjoyed your review.

Thanks Joanne. You actually had to read it for school? That never happened to me.

147: Really great review of Dracula. I think we read it at the very same time and I agreed with a lot of your thoughts on it. I can't believe it took me this long to read it either...ah well!

>164 brenzi: It was a college course, Bonnie, but I forget the name of the course. I know I also read Frankenstein then, too.

passing through and catching up :)

have a lovely day

>165 RosyLibrarian: Hi Marie, thanks for stopping by. Yep all those great classics that I missed I am systematically knocking off.

>166 Copperskye: Yeah I think I'll save Frankenstein for next Halloween Joanne.

>167 curlysue: Hi Kara, thanks for visiting.

It's time I shared the lousy state of things in my life lately. Originally I thought I'd start this post by saying that I did something today that I'd never done before---I cast an absentee ballot. That's because on Tuesday (Election Day), I'm being admitted to the hospital for a total shoulder replacement. It's been a bumpy road to this point. In March, after exhausting all the conservative treatments (PT, anti-inflammatory medications, etc.) I was referred to the surgeon. I took the first available appt.---August 9!

When I finally got in to see him and he said the longed for words, “We can fix that,” I was ecstatic. Then I went out to schedule the surgery and took (again) the first available date---November 2! In the meantime, for over a year, the pain has been incredible, especially at night when sleep has become an unknown quantity. But at last, the date is almost here.

Then yesterday, after school I somehow fell down the stairs (about 5) and found myself in the Emergency Room when I discovered I couldn’t actually walk. Fortunately, after many x-rays, it was determined that although nothing was broken, there were numerous severely bruised areas including ribs, chest, hip, knee and shoulder (not the one that needs the surgery). Unfortunately, I can barely move. I’ve been assured that this will not interfere with my surgery (fingers crossed). The worst part is that I have been off all aspirin products in preparation for the surgery since Monday. Ow-ow-ow!

I've been in the ranks of the other LTers suffering from a painful existence. I am looking forward to having a lot of time for reading since I will be off probably until Christmas. That is about the best news, that and the fact that I may soon be pain free:)

Oh also, I'm totally immersed in The Siege and loving it and its luscious prose :)

Wow, another LT groupie bites the dust...quite literally. Oh Bonnie, the thoughts of surgery are bad enough (except for the BIG relief from pain factor) but to be in such pain when you were probably going to be busy lining up all your little ducks in a row before being out of commission....

Sending big hugs. Well, make that some of those Bunny hugs we gave to Linda. You're in my prayers, Dear Friend.

ETA: I'm glad you voted!

Bonnie- Thanks for sharing the woes! I hope this surgery finally gives you some comfort and please be careful on those stairs! Big hug coming your way!

Ooo! That does sound painful. Glad it shouldn't delay the surgery though.

I hate the idea of surgery but I've seen so many people get such relief from knee, hip and shoulder replacements--they all say they got their lives back. (I have a friend who had her knee replaced last year and by the time the surgery date rolled around she had broken her foot and wrist because her balance was so off with her bad knee she kept on falling. She went ahead with the surgery and did fantastic.)

Bonnie, I hope you're feeling better SOON! Will you be off LT for awhile?

Glad you're loving The Seige. Hope it's able to take your mind off some of your pain.

Gentle bunny hugs from me too.

Ouch times a thousand.

(Btw, if you don't have The Betrayal yet, PM me your address and I'll send it along for you to devour post-surgery...)

I suppose if you need surgery, you might as well start off feeling lousy so that it's all uphill?? Imagine if you had fallen AFTER surgery? (Sorry, I'm desperately trying to find an upbeat element to this...)

A cousin of mine got a shoulder replacement many, many years ago -- back in the late 70s/early 80s when those things were rare. Hers was for a malignant bone cancer that was eating away the bone in her shoulder. Fast forward 30 plus years, and she's using her new shoulder with vim and vigor. And I'm sure that the surgeries now are so much more common and procedures/devices sooo much more developed that this will be even smoother.

At any rate, am crossing all that is cross-able!

Oh my. That's pain on pain. I'm glad you didn't break anything, but soft tissue injury is nasty. At least the meds after the shoulder surgery should give you some general relief.

Good luck with that surgery too. I know people who've had it done and the results were quite good. Here's to a pain-free future!

Oh Bonnie honey.. OUCH!!

I am so sorry about your fall.. terrible!
The surgery.. will hopefully fix things and get rid of the pain for you..
Believe me, you will be on my mind and I will be sending healing energy your way.
Who will be updating us on YOU?
This is vital, you know.. people here care about you..
like me.. please get someone to let us know how you are..

Post a message on my profile if you want my phone number to give to someone okay?

Very careful hug.

Thanks everyone for the well-wishes. They're so very much appreciated and I would never turn down an offer of prayers.

>171 Donna828: you were probably going to be busy lining up all your little ducks in a row You hit the nail on the head Donna, both at home and in school. I wanted to have the house all set for my hubby to take over for awhile, but you know what, Cay sera sera, whatever will be, will be (oh boy I can still hear Doris Day singing :)

>172 msf59: Thanks Mark!

>173 phebj: Will you be off LT for awhile? I'm not sure how long Pat. I'll be in the hospital for two days. But once I ge home I think I'll be able to get back on although I'll be typing with one hand for awhile. I guess I should have asked the doctor how long I would have to be away from LT;-)

>174 Chatterbox: Fast forward 30 plus years, and she's using her new shoulder with vim and vigor

Wow Suzanne, I didn't think those early versions lasted that long. That's terrific. And thank you so much for your generous offer. I sent you a PM.

>175 ffortsa: Thanks Judy. Yes I know people always say they shouldn't have waited so long to get their replacement.

>176 mckait: Thanks so much Kath. I could have my daughter call.

Bonnie

Pat send a message to me telling me that you fell and that you will be having surgery next Tuesday.

BIG hugs to you! I'm so sorry that you are in such pain. I hope the surgery is successful and your recovery is smooth.

Ouch, ouch, ouch...you must be hurting badly.

I'll send concentrated prayers your way on Tuesday. Is there someone who can keep us posted regarding how you are doing?

Love,

Linda oh my, you're feeling well enough to post?? That's wonderful. Thanks so much for your prayers. They will be much appreciated.

Oh, Bonnie, ouch, ouch, ouch, ouch, ouch! I'm still thinking about that fall. Only "numerous severely bruised areas including ribs, chest, hip, knee and shoulder..."? That sounds awful! You sound so calm; I would be whining nonstop. You're a real trouper, but you know you can complain as much as you want and we'll still be here with you, right? I'm glad you're still going to be able to get your surgery done, even though that doesn't sound too pleasant either--and that you're giving yourself plenty of time to recuperate. Let everybody take care of you--it makes them feel better when they can do something to help.

Bonnie, I'll be checking on you before then, but will be sending especially good thoughts on November 2. Please have someone post that you're OK--I'll be worrying about "my Sis" until I hear. Your hubby will probably be "wiped out" but maybe someone else in the family can call one of us who can then pass on the good news to everyone else? I'm sorry for the reason that you have to lay back and rest, but I'm glad you have the down time before the surgery. Let everybody take care of you--it makes them feel better when they can do something to help.

BIG Hugs! :-)

eta: I noticed that I told you twice to let everybody take care of you. Not going to erase it, because some people need to hear it twice (or three times) to let it really sink in. :-)

I'm so glad you finally get your surgery. Life will be rosy after you heal, and I love Chatterbox's silver lining take on things. If you have to fall and bruise everything, better now than later.

Ah, the reading you have in store for you. What a delight. Sending healing thoughts your way...

Yeouch! Hope you get better quickly.

OWWW! Sorry to hear about your shoulder and recent fall, and I hope that you begin to feel better soon and that your surgery goes well.

Hmm...does this group need a MASH unit?

Hope the surgery goes well and gets you out of pain soon, Bonnie!

Oh Bonnie -OUCH!! You had enough to think about with your upcoming surgery and then a fall.

I hope your aches end soon and I'll be thinking about you on Tuesday!

Oh my goodness, Bonnie! You must be in a lot of pain, waiting for surgery and then the latest bumps on top of that. We'll all be thinking of you, of course and hoping for quick relief!

I'll be thinking of you, Bonnie. And I hope it won't be too long until you're in the reading part of the convalescence period....

Thinking of you this morning and sending sunshine.

Hi Bonnie,
Hope you are feeling a little bit better today!!!
Sending you good vibes and prayers!!! Don't worry everything will go as planned on Tuesday!!!

so sorry to hear about your fall...damn stairs! did you fall at work?

sending positive thoughts and wishes that the surgery goes well and your aches and pains go away :)

Best wishes for your surgery...please keep us posted. And no more falling, 'kay? :)

Hi Bonnie. Just piling on with the wishes for a better day today.

Bonnie--that fall sounds awful. I hope those bruises and pains are beginning to heal. And I'm so glad you are finally going to get relief from your shoulder pain. My husband suffered for years with a bad hip, and after hip replacement regretted waiting so long. He also says that he could tell his hip would be pain free almost immediately after waking up from the surgery. Best wishes, and keep us all advised.

Wow thanks for all these well-wishes. They are greatly appreciated. Today was a little better. At least I can walk now which makes me feel a lot better.

Glad things are better today, Bonnie.

Me too! I hope you improve daily.

Walking is good! :-) Feel better!

Well .. we do appreciate you and your company here every day..
friends support friends, right?

Sending soft pillowing thoughts your way :)
Not too much walking, and drink some nice hot chocolate later, while watching that perfect black and white movie that you will find?

:)

Checking in and catching up. Looks like I'm just in time to add my soft virtual hug to all the others. Having two problem shoulders myself, I can certainly envy your pain free future. We will be thinking of you, and sending good thoughts heavenward. Please rest, take your post-op drugs, and let others take care of you. We want your wise thoughts back whenever you're ready.

Just checking in to see if there are any updates.

Hi, Bonnie,
Really really sorry to hear you have been going through all this. I hope the surgery sorts it out, and quickly. I'll be thinking of you.
Janet

Ouch! Here's another virtual hug, and the very best of wishes for your upcoming surgery. You'll be in my thoughts and prayers!

I'm pretty overwhelmed by all these visitors with their good wishes. Thank you so much Janet (whose overwhelming problems are so much worse than mine), Pat, Tina (fellow bum shoulder sufferer), Kath (hot chocolate sounds awfully tempting right now), Tad, Stasia, Deborah (when will we see pics of Boden?), Angela (if I knew why I fell I'd stop doing it:), Cara, Tammy, Linda (Wow! isn't that amazing?), Lucy, Laura, Joanne, Darryl (a MASH unit, I know, it seems like someone is going down weekly), Jim, Joyce, and Bonnie and Terri (prayers are always welcome). You are all such thoughtful and caring friends. I hope I didn't miss anybody in this current crop. If I did please accept my apologies.

Bonnie - OUCH! Also adding a virtual hug - which must be the only kind that wouldn't be agony for you at the moment! Hope all the bruising is beginning to heal, and hope all goes well with your surgery on Tuesday.

54.



The Siege by Helen Dunmore 4.5 stars

From my review:

Helen Dunmore has written an intense, gut wrenching novel exploring the first year of the 700 day Siege of Leningrad in 1941. The fact that she accomplishes this through the most luscious prose imaginable just adds to the satisfaction of this wonderful, yet gruesome, novel. Told primarily from the point of view of 23 year old Anna, it tells the story of a desperate people fighting both General Winter and General Hunger as Leningrad becomes an island unto itself as the Germans cut off all deliveries of food and other essentials necessary for a day-to-day existence. As the brutal Russian winter rages on, the people face each day with no electricity, water, heat, or food.

Read more here.

Loved your review of The Seige, Bonnie. (I'm the first thumb!) I'm going to read this for the November TIOLI challenge about a book set in WWI or WWII. Darryl, I think, is also reading it. So glad you liked it.

Thumbing...

Checking in.. suggesting a mere touch of Bailey's in the hot chocolate...

Good good review. And I need to go look at the November Tioli's -- so far I can't ever seem to pull of more than two, but maybe I'll get better at it as I go along.

Bonnie- Loved the review! It's on the list but I might need to pick this one up! Great job!

>205 Eat_Read_Knit: Thanks so much Caty.

>207 phebj: You're going to love it Pat. Err I'm not sure love is the right word, maybe appreciate.

>208 mckait: Oh yeah, Bailey's....uh huh. That'll help:)

>209 sibylline: If you do Lucy, you'll probably be overwhelmed, as I usually am:)

>210 msf59: Mark, push it up, way up.

Bonnie- I just ordered a good used copy of The Siege. Injured or not, The Force is still strong in you, my friend!

It's a real testament to your reading mettle, Bonnie, that you can read through the pain. You are my hero! And the book sounds great. I don't know how I've missed reading this one, but I see the library has a copy available. Dang, I'm overbooked right now. The Siege will have to go on the ever-expanding list.

I hope tomorrow and Monday are peaceful days for you before your surgery on Tuesday. Hugs and prayers continue...

The Force in Bonnie? well of course it is ..

Bonnie - I'll be sending good thoughts your way on Tuesday! After all of the waiting, I know you are ready for some relief!!!!

GREAT review, Bonnie !!

>212 msf59: Hahahaha; you're so funny Mark. I hope you enjoy it.

>213 Donna828: Aren't we always overbooked Donna? Especially when the TIOLI starts at the beginning of the month?

>214 mckait: Funny Kath:)

>215 porch_reader: Thanks so much Amy!

>216 lauralkeet: Thanks Laura; much appreciated.

Bonnie--Best wishes on Tuesday. I go in for my surgery on Wednesday. And I understand the whole no Advil/aspirin thing, although I have avoided the problem by upgrading to Hydrocodone. LOL. What is it? A contagious LT bug? So many of us with our issues all at once...positively rampant. Hang in there!!

#206: Great review, Bonnie. I am glad you enjoyed that one. Are you planning on reading the follow up book?

Nice review of The Siege, Bonnie. I will be reading it next month, possibly as early as next weekend.

>218 Berly: I know Kim, what is going on? Well by Wednesday I should be ungroggy enough to be thinking of you. Prayers offered for you til then. I do have oxycontin but no anti-inflammatory which is what I desperately need. **sigh**

>219 alcottacre: Thanks Stasia. I will read The Betrayal very soon thanks to an LT friend.

>220 kidzdoc: Thanks Darryl. I think you'll enjoy it.

The Siege looks like a great read, but one whic I'll have to be in the right frame of mind to tackle. It's going onto the ever-growing TBR pile. Great review - it told me just enough to whet my curiosity, not enough to spoil it.

At least you get to sleep in today, right? I hope?? Surely you are not trying to go in to work?

>222 tututhefirst: Thanks Tina and yes you need to be in the mood for a very dark read.

>223 mckait: Well sure I'm at work Kath. The surgery's not til tomorrow and I have to make up for the time I lost last week. I'll have plenty of time to sleep in after tomorrow. That'll be great:)

I have a friend with a weird sense of humor. Take a look at what he sent me:

http://nottotallyrad.blogspot.com/2009/11/waking-up-is-hard-to-do.html

#225: As you drift off to sleep tomorrow during surgery, I can just see you humming that!

Oh that was the best!! LOL Enjoy today and very best wishes tomorrow. We can compare notes on our anesthetist afterwards!

213- Overbooked!? I love the pun, Donna! Can't believe I've never thought of that use of the word before now but I will definitely be stealing it...:)

Eeeeek, Bonnie! I was so behind on your thread and boy am I glad that I looked today and didn't wait till November 2nd. You will be in my thoughts and prayers tomorrow as you head into hospital for shoulder surgery. I hope you will be back with us again shortly, but pleeeessse, take it slow and mend well.

Must be something in the 75er's water...:) Best wishes for your surgery!

Hiya Bonnie! How's tricks?

Okay, okay, bad joke...but you *know* I'm pulling for a swift and complete recovery, so a little humour won't be taken amiss, right?

>229 Carmenere: Oh yes Lynda, I will be taking it very slow as I rack up the Books Read column:) Thanks for the good wishes.

>230 RosyLibrarian: I know!! We're just dropping like flies. Thanks Marie.

>231 richardderus: A little humour is always a good thing Richard. Thank you.

Good luck for tomorrow!

That video had me laughing through my nausea. Hope you were mostly laughing, Bonnie! And, hey, I've got a new thread, starting today, so don't think your mind is failing you if you can't find me when you're back online. ;-)

Hi Bonnie, just stopping by to wish you the best tomorrow. Hope all goes smoothly and you have your nose in a book in no time.

Hope everything goes well tomorrow, Bonnie.

What a good friend you have to send you that little ditty to send you off to dreamland. Here's hoping for pleasant dreams and rapid healing.

That video almost made me want to have surgery! Almost. We'll be with you in spirit tomorrow...and through your recovery.

You went to work? Dedicated.. very dedicated. I will have you in my thoughts tomorrow.. and I will laughing now and then thinking of that video..

Thanks so much everyone. OK my daughter wasn't very excited about the list of phone numbers I gave her so we compromised on e mails. So she will be sending an e mail from her phone and since I still have my sis's (Bonnie) e mail address that's the one I gave her. Then Bonnie will post here and let you all know the good news sometime tomorrow afternoon.

I want everyone to know that our LT Ambassador Stasia kindly offered to start a "How's Bonnie Doing" thread like she did for Linda but I told here I didn't think it was necessary. I should be back on later in the week, pecking away with one hand. I'll try to start a new thread later this evening so it's nice and roomy. And once again thanks so much for all your well wishes.

Bonnie- Good luck tomorrow! Relief is in sight! Sending you a big old hug and don't worry I won't squeeze to hard!

Best wishes to you Bonnie! Looking forward to your swift return to the keyboard.

Thanks Mark and Joanne!

NEW THREAD!

Nite, nite.