Author Topic: Suggestion Box for Future Book Discussions ~ (Read 283516 times)

JoanP · « **Reply #880 on:** August 27, 2012, 09:26:08 PM »

Nominations for November Book Club Online Discussion:
Titles are links to reviews

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VOTE AGAIN Here to Break the TIE! (link to ballot box)!

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The Pickwick Papers by Charles Dickens

Travels with Herodotus by Ryszard Kapuscinski

FOUNDING RIVALS; MADISON VS. MONROE by Chris DeRose

The Hobbit by J.R.R Tolkien

The Moon is a Harsh Mistress by Robert Heinlein

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Half the Sky by Nicholas Kristof

(NOTE THAT ALL OF THESE TITLES ARE LINKED TO REVIEWS)

Contact: JoanP

Lorac625 · « **Reply #881 on:** September 02, 2012, 11:44:28 PM »

Have you done The Hobbit,JRR Tolkien? The Moon is a Harsh Misstress by Robert Heinlein is a great book for discussions as it has so much politics in it,and you can get into the was it based on Australia debate(the moon is a penal colony trying to win independence). The Great Gatsby can be fun...who would dedicate a book with so much infedelity in it to his wife?

JoanP · « **Reply #882 on:** September 03, 2012, 10:24:22 AM »

Lorac - great suggestions! No, we haven't done any of those...well, maybe The Great Gatsby - I'll check the Archives for that one. Will certainly put them up for consideration in the near future. Thank you!

Babi · « **Reply #883 on:** September 04, 2012, 08:43:39 AM »

A re-read of the Hobbit would be fun. I was quite delighted with Bilbo.

JoanK · « **Reply #884 on:** September 06, 2012, 02:19:25 PM »

This is PatH, posting on JoanK's computer.

Carol/Lorac, those are good book suggestions, and it looks like we haven't discussed any of them. I discussed The Moon is a Harsh Mistress in a f2f book group, and you're right, it makes for a lively discussion. We talked about all the points you mentioned, plus the economics (my daughter, an economist, was very interested in that) plus the sociology, and the computer science. Most everyone likes The Hobbit.

It looks like you are a sci-fi fan; do come over to the Sci-fi/Fantasy discussion and say hi.

Frybabe · « **Reply #885 on:** September 06, 2012, 02:33:12 PM »

I like those suggestions very much. I read the Ring trilogy plus the Tolkien Reader (short stories) long ago. In fact, before the first incarnation of it in the movies (which was cartoon form).

ANNIE · « **Reply #886 on:** September 06, 2012, 02:52:17 PM »

I believe that I even saw the cartoon "The Hobbit" and was disappointed by it. Have not seen all the films but I am sure they are very good. "The Hobbit" book as a discussion?? I don't know except I loved all of those books. We even had "Twin Towers" board game that we all enjoyed.

Ella Gibbons · « **Reply #887 on:** October 03, 2012, 11:30:23 AM »

Are we voting here? If so, I would like to discuss FOUNDING RIVALS; MADISON VS. MONROE. I haven't read it, but I will. Thanks for the suggestion.

JoanP · « **Reply #888 on:** October 03, 2012, 12:13:23 PM »

Ella, we're nominating here. Just about ready to put the titles in the heading to a Survey Monkey vote...Hold on!

BarbStAubrey · « **Reply #889 on:** October 04, 2012, 12:23:19 PM »

After seeing the PBS documentary this week I would love to read with a group the book Half The Sky - not only is it an eye opener but sensitive personal issues were reported in such a matter of fact way there was no squeamish feelings of revolt or horror - the situations were shattering but there are solutions achieved by some and a chapter of suggestions how we could easily support women - I would love to discuss this book

Half the Sky http://www.amazon.com/Half-Sky-Oppression-Opportunity-Worldwide/dp/0307387097/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1349367424&sr=1-1&keywords=half+a+sky

JoanP · « **Reply #890 on:** October 04, 2012, 01:05:45 PM »

Thanks, Barb...

Please check over the titles in the heading nominated for our November Book Club Online. Did we forget anything? Would you like to add a title for consideration? You still have time - we'll be voting this week.

Remember the titles are linked to reviews...

ANNIE · « **Reply #891 on:** October 04, 2012, 02:23:08 PM »

I was just sent an offer to buy the audio of "American Presidency" By Robert Dallek. I think it might be something that Ella would like read and discuss. Here's a description for it:

The 20th-century American Presidency is something of a mystery. Some Presidents performed exceptionally well in office, displaying strong leadership and winning the respect of the American people as well as the rest of the world. Others fell short of expectations and are remembered at best as marginal chief executives. What was it that allowed some to rise to greatness while others failed? What elusive mix of character traits, circumstance, and determination combine to mold the shape of a Presidential Administration? This course explores the tenures of the men who held our nation’s highest office during the 20th-century. The lectures look at each President and examine their strengths and weaknesses as well as the times in which they served. Through this analysis listeners will develop a better understanding not only of this supreme office and how it has taken shape, but also how it has shaped America and, indeed, the modern world.
A winner of the Bancroft Prize for history, Robert Dallek is a respected expert on presidential history and has taught at Columbia University, UCLA, and Oxford University. He is currently Professor of History at Boston University. He has published numerous works about U.S. foreign policy and the U.S. presidency, including such best-selling books as Lone Star Rising: Lyndon Johnson and His Times, 1908-1960, Hail to the Chief: The Making and Unmaking of American Presidents, and An Unfinished Life: John F. Kennedy.

serenesheila · « **Reply #892 on:** October 04, 2012, 06:10:07 PM »

I watched the PBS program "Half The Sky". a few nights ago. It was both informative, and deeply moving. I would love to take part in reading, and discussing the book.

Sheila

Ella Gibbons · « **Reply #893 on:** October 05, 2012, 09:46:55 AM »

Hello Ann: When are you coming to visit me? (we live nearby each other).

No, I just finished one book about our presidents - THE PRESIDENTS CLUB - and am not ready yet for another. We discussed each president since Truman, so I need something else for awhile.

But I always like nonfiction and the Madison-Monroe sounds good. I was at the library yesterday, but their copy of it was out. Will put it on reserve.

Ella Gibbons · « **Reply #894 on:** October 05, 2012, 09:50:56 AM »

I just noticed that GATSBY is on the list. Gosh, I haven't read it in awhile, I think I've read it every 20 years or so when something comes up to remind me of it. If that is voted in I'll be there to discuss it.

JoanP · « **Reply #895 on:** October 07, 2012, 07:24:47 PM »

OKAY, Ella - we're ready to vote. As some of the titles may be unfamiliar to you, please read the reviews in the heading before going into the Ballot Box.

When you're ready, press the link to the Ballot Box...

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VOTE HERE (link to ballot box)!

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Babi · « **Reply #896 on:** October 08, 2012, 08:43:56 AM »

I've voted. While I would like to read "Travels with Herodotus", I have been unable to locate the book
anywhere nearby. So I voted for the three I would like to read/discuss that I can readily get my hands on.

JoanP · « **Reply #897 on:** October 08, 2012, 08:57:33 AM »

Whoa...Babi - availability is a real consideration...! Let me scout around...maybe it's under a different title - or? Can anyone help with this? We may have to well, let's look around for Herodotus first!

JoanP · « **Reply #898 on:** October 08, 2012, 09:00:23 AM »

First stop - Amazon. http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/1400078784/ref=dp_olp_used?ie=UTF8&condition=used

I see a it available in paperback...also a number of used copies...for under $2.00 plus shipping

My Library has 5 copies...all currently available. I guess that doesn't help you, Babi. There is the name of the translator - maybe under that name?

Translated from the Polish by Klara Glowczewska

Babi, if you find it, email me and I'll try to change your vote if I can - or at least take it into consideration when all the votes are in.

Frybabe · « **Reply #899 on:** October 08, 2012, 09:19:21 AM »

Travels is in my library, too, but I had trouble finding it at first. I can't remember if it was the title or the author the search feature didn't recognize, but it is there.

JoanK · « **Reply #900 on:** October 08, 2012, 03:13:59 PM »

Well I voted, all for non-fiction. I hope it's not too soon to read another non-fiction book. Looks like we non-fiction readers have been busier at suggesting titles.

PatH · « **Reply #901 on:** October 08, 2012, 07:54:50 PM »

I voted too--a mix of fiction and non.

Babi · « **Reply #902 on:** October 09, 2012, 08:36:47 AM »

At that price, JOANP, I think I can afford it.

If it's chosen, I will happily buy a
second hand paperback from Amazon.

JoanP · « **Reply #903 on:** October 11, 2012, 07:24:16 AM »

Final day to cast your vote if you have not yet done so. The results are closer than they've ever been! (Not talking about the Presidential Election right now, though both seem close!

Babi · « **Reply #904 on:** October 11, 2012, 09:04:41 AM »

I'm voting by mail this year. Don't think I can handle long lines. Even the early voting has
long lines. Got my ballot yesterday, but want to learn more about the regional candidates
before completing it. Already knew what my vote would be for Pres/V-pres, of course. I
really like this new option.

BarbStAubrey · « **Reply #905 on:** October 11, 2012, 03:24:12 PM »

Babi Tip: I have worked for years at the polls and a couple of years with the group who sorted and verified the mail in votes - I do not know if every county operates in the same way but here in Travis County two things you need to be aware of...

When you sign, your handwriting as well as, how you place your initials - everything about your signature MUST be EXACTLY as it is on your request for a Ballet - even if the signature is slanted upward and your request did not have that slant your vote will be thrown away - every mail in vote is viewed by two people - a Dem and a Pub - no vote can be reviewed by only one person or one party- if in doubt we call a leader type who makes the decision - when the vote is determined to be from the one who requested the ballot than it is filed by precinct in a box.

Then the kicker - these votes are only counted if the vote is either tied or very close - they are stored and never counted unless needed.

I suggest if there is anyway to get to the polls - early voting in Harris County is the same as here in Travis County - Early and Mobile voting in person begins Monday, October 22, 2012 and ends Friday, November 2, 2012.

Oh yes, a good friend's daughter is an attorney - she called and she had to listen as if reading between the lines to verify the experience I shared with her. Evidently this is not public knowledge and if it happens here in one of the larger cities in this State you know we cannot be alone.

jane · « **Reply #906 on:** October 11, 2012, 04:37:46 PM »

Interesting, Barb. Here in Iowa "early voting/mobile voting" is the same as absentee voting or "mail-in voting." You use that same ballot and put it in the envelopes, etc.

Also, according to a state site here:

http://sos.iowa.gov/elections/voterinformation/absfaq.html#11

this Q and A:

I've heard that absentee ballots are only counted if they will affect the outcome of the election. Is this true?

No.
All absentee ballots that are received on time are considered for counting. Absentee ballots received by Election Day are counted on Election Day. Ballots received after Election Day but before the deadline are counted when the absentee and special voters' precinct board meets as long as they are postmarked the day before Election Day or earlier.

jane

PatH · « **Reply #907 on:** October 11, 2012, 05:19:34 PM »

Barb, what about referenda and local contests like school board? Are the absentee ballots counted if these are close? Those are usually the only close contests here, and they are often decided by very few votes.

BarbStAubrey · « **Reply #908 on:** October 11, 2012, 06:17:09 PM »

If ANY vote is a close vote or a tie they will be counted but then my annoyance with this plan is how close or not would an election be, that we have no clue because, those who voted at the polls are often younger and more physically able - but then it can easily be pointed out that older folks vote pocketbook when it comes to anything for the betterment of schools.

If you are depending on what is supposed to be after my experiences I would find someone who was a party to the counting and find out what does happen in the counting rooms. I must say though, although, I was surprised to find out how things were done I also noted, no one could leave without an official escorting you to the rest room and when lunch time and quit time arrived, no one could stay in the room and while we worked the room was locked with armed guards patrolling the hall.

JoanK · « **Reply #909 on:** October 12, 2012, 12:43:31 AM »

A friend who votes by absentee ballot in Maryland really resents that her vote might not be counted. I can't blame her. This is my first time voting in this precinct, and I hope the lines aren't too long.

Voting in california has it's own flavor. I got a broshure from the state explaining all the propositions and it's 143 pages long (small print). gulp.

jane · « **Reply #910 on:** October 12, 2012, 08:57:01 AM »

Since there seem to be state laws re: voting practices, I'd think that there would be a basis for voter fraud/denial of one's civil rights in the counties who don't count legitimate votes.

BarbStAubrey · « **Reply #911 on:** October 12, 2012, 09:18:18 AM »

Jane first you have to know that your vote was not counted and then how many have the where with all to see a law suit through especially against the county - it would have to be a class action suit to be able to afford a lawyer and even the many that they now know were denied access to voting in Florida do not have the money or will to sue - a law in only as good as taking someone to court with enough evidence to have a case heard.

To me the easiest is to find those who count the mail in votes and see what happens behind closed doors. Until you are sure your county counts all mail-in votes I would make it a point to vote during early voting which is less of a hassle with fewer folks waiting to vote than on election day. If you need assistance there is less pressure with time to comfortably set you up at the wheel chair station or make sure you have the hearing piece or even if you need someone with you those handling the polls are calmer and more helpful during early voting.

I have several friends who seldom get out and we check out when the voting bus is coming to a nearby neighborhood retirement home and then together we drive up and vote on that bus. If I cannot make the time or day then, when I am grocery shopping I swing by since early voting polls are open for about a two week period.

Babi · « **Reply #912 on:** October 12, 2012, 09:49:15 AM »

Oh, BARB, I am not happy to hear that. However, I fear it's the only way I'll be able
to vote. Not to whine, but my energy span lately seems to be about 15 minutes! The doctor
has ordered various studies, and I'm hopeful he can find a way to improve that. The
documents did make it clear that the ballot had to be returned by a certain deadline,
so I hope that means the ruling JANE posted is also in effect here.

JoanP · « **Reply #913 on:** October 12, 2012, 05:55:28 PM »

Oh my, we've got a tie - and no paper ballots to settle it. We have to ask you to vote again, now that the field has narrowed considerabley!

VOTE AGAIN Here to Break the TIE! (link to ballot box)!

PatH · « **Reply #914 on:** October 12, 2012, 06:12:07 PM »

Voted.

jane · « **Reply #915 on:** October 12, 2012, 09:00:57 PM »

Barb..."early voting" here is the same as voting absentee or mailing in a ballot. It's the same process. You just hand the sealed in the envelope ballot to the clerk in the County Court House office where any mailed ballot ends up. Therefore, "early voting" wouldn't change a thing, if the same devious practice in your county is done in mine. [Evidence of this or talk of it, however, in the office where this is happening might be a lot easier to document these days with lapel mics and smartphones that record/videotape, etc. ]

jane

Babi · « **Reply #916 on:** October 13, 2012, 09:01:06 AM »

Voted from your link in Library, JOAN. You're really good at making this easy for the
rest of us.

marjifay · « **Reply #917 on:** October 14, 2012, 11:44:52 AM »

JoanK wrote: "Voting in california has it's own flavor. I got a broshure from the state explaining all the propositions and it's 143 pages long (small print). gulp."

I know what you mean, Joan. I just went thru' that brochure yesterday, and then sent in my absentee ballot. I rely a lot on who is for or against a proposition. I.E., anything that the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers' Assn. recommends (see Prop. 30 which they are against) I really pay attention. Jarvis was the man who was instrumental in getting the law passed limiting how much the property tax could be increased, which saved a lot of people's homes, especially those retired people with limited incomes. Jarvis is dead but the association keeps a sharp eye out for things that could jeopardize this law.

Marj

JoanK · « **Reply #918 on:** October 14, 2012, 04:13:56 PM »

I wondered about the property tax here in CA: It's so different from Maryland. The woman I bought my condo from was paying very little property tax, based on the price she paid, many years ago. Mine is quadrupled, based on what I paid.

Of course, that means the state got less benefit from the housing boom. It may be part of why CA is so short of money. But if Seniors had had their taxes reflect the astronomical prices of a few tears ago, they would all have lost their homes.

BarbStAubrey · « **Reply #919 on:** October 14, 2012, 04:37:26 PM »

Joan here your school tax part of property tax is frozen at the county appraised value the year you turn 65 and so if you move to a new location after 65 the tax is frozen at the value the year you move into the new property.

We also have a deal where you can let your taxes ride at 8% interest until you sell your house or die for those over the age of 65. Not every county in the state works with this amendment but several of the surrounding counties do, and so older folks are not loosing their homes because of property tax.

News:

Author Topic: Suggestion Box for Future Book Discussions ~ (Read 283516 times)