New Song ~ [Book 5] ~ Jan Karon ~ 6/00 ~ Fiction Export

By Jan Karon

From The Publisher

Jan Karon's millions of fans can't wait to sit down with her heartwarming and hilarious characters, who have a way of becoming family. In fact, readers and booksellers across the country kept Out to Canaan and At Home in Mitford on The New York Times bestseller list for months. In A New Song, Mitford's longtime Episcopal priest, Father Tim, retires. However, new challenges and adventures await when he agrees to serve as interim minister of a small church on Whitecap Island. He and his wife, Cynthia, soon find that Whitecap has its own unforgettable characters: a church organist with a mysterious past, a lovelorn bachelor placing personal ads, a mother battling paralyzing depression. They also find that Mitford is never far away when circumstances "back home" keep their phone ringing off the hook. In this fifth novel of the beloved series, fans old and new will discover that a trip to Mitford and Whitecap is twice as good for the soul. Further comments and reviews of this book

Jan Karon Author Site

The Journey With Father Tim

Book One At Home in Mitford Discussion Archived

Book Two Light in the Window Current Discussion

Book Three These High Green Hills Discussion Begins 9/1/99

Book Four Out to Canaan Discussion Begins 10/1/99

Book Five A New Song Discussion Begins 6/1/2000

Your discussion leader was Larry Hanna

I'm on a waiting list for "A New Song" at the library. Sure is a popular series.

I was able to purchase the first four book as a series, but the last one "A New Song" was still in hardback. Have all five books and am finding them very enjoyable reading. It will be awhile before I get to this one though.

Last evening I posted here to advise that we would delay this until next June to allow for the issuance of book 5 in paperback, but we will keep this discussion on our upcoming list. I had also found information on book 6 that Jan Karon is now writing. Apparently we had a crash and the database had to be restored back to an earlier version so my message was gone.

Larry

I've heard that A New Song will be out in paperback the first week in April. So, good to have B&L back! Thanks to all who have worked on this.

Just waiting for the paperback... so it will match my other books.

here is a website that will interest you...sorry I don't know how to make it clickable:

http://www.josephbeth.com/html/interview2.html

Sorry if this has been posted before.

I have noticed that this books is now available in PB on B&N for pre-order (available April 3).

Charlie, thanks for that info on the availability date. I knew it was to be in the spring. Won't be surprised to see a new book on the market in this series before too long as know there are to be more books in the series.

Mistly, thanks for that clickable. It was very enjoyable to read some of the background of the story from Jan Karon's own words. I was also delighted to see there are to be 4 or 5 more books in this series and a cookbook. Her plans for a subsequent book of a couple in a RV also sounds like it would be good. Hope you will join in our upcoming discussion.

Larry

Jan Karon will be online Thursday, April 20 at 4PM EDT at http://www.jankaronfacetoface.com/

I've read the four books in the series and now reading the latest one but this is hardback and I have a little problem holding books....wish I'd waited for the paperback. Anyway....I have really enjoyed all the characters and happenings in these books......kinda feels like it's somewhere, someone I know.

I ave read this one - 5th in the series - I waited a long time for the paper back edition, cause I wanted it to match my other 4. I, as I have said in another posting, I love this series. Wouldn't it be nice if all our hometowns and people in it were like Mitford. It was almost like that when I was a little girl growing up. I this book, I loved the conversations used in the answering machines. To you who have not read it, you will enjoy it, believe me.!!!!!

I have read the New Song and it is as good as the previous books. The new place and the new church quickly became Mitford II.

Being an Episcopalian I enjoyed the "denominational" references but recommend it to everyone who wants a sweet, clean book. Eagerly awaiting next book.

Wish I had waited for the paperback edition of this one. I'm not but about half way through it. I love this series too. Haven't tried making that orange-marmalade layer cake yet.....have you? Read the first chapter...click on her name and you can find the recipe for the cake and maybe you'd like to check out the newsletters as well.

OK for a newbie to this thread jump in on this discussion?I have read all the Mitford Books.Love them.I enjoyed this one particularly because of the different location.We got to meet a whole new group of characters but Father Tim's Mitford parishoners were still an intergal part of the story.These stories always leave me with a good feeling.

Marelin, yes, you sure can and welcome to the discussion! I hope you all will enjoy looking at the various themes and things about this new book you like.

It's rare to find a book which leaves you with a good feeling, isn't it, and a positive feeling about mankind in general. It's no wonder her books are so popular.

Will be watching this discussion with interest, if you had to give one reason why you would read her next book, what would it be? What does she excel in doing?

ginny

Why I will read the next book: to see if Father Tim stays retired.He has to continue pastoring the folks of Mitford.Also what is in the future for Dooley.What I like is the authors depiction of life in Mitford .The good and not so good.Makes me want to visit a town like that..Are there any Mitfords in this day and age?

Hi, I am another newbie to this group. I was pleased to find the discussions on Jan Karon's books.

It doesn't seem long ago that I discovered her first book "At Home in Mitford" in a local book store. At the time she wasn't known nationally - she lives about 80 miles northeast of us in Blowing Rock, N.C. and I was always looking for N.C. authors. I told several of my friends about the charming book, but I had no idea she would go on to such fame.

I feel like I know the residents of Mitford well, and I wondered how I would like them living on the east coast. No problem, they will fit in wherever Jan sends them. But I think I am prejudiced, and I look forward to them being back in the mountains.

Looking forward to the next book.

Marilyn

Hi Marilyn ,A welcome to one newbie from another newbie.Also my name is Marilyn but when I joned SN Marilyn was taken hence I am Marelin when I am at SN.Before I got my computer I had a Web TV.We had a book discussion group and one of the ladies was from North Carolina . She would tell us stories about the authors she met who lived in North Carolina.Isn't Gail Goodwin from there?We did a discussion on A Southern Family which I was told was to a certain extent her auto biography.

Hi, we've had a slight problem here in that our Larry Hanna who was to lead the discussion is caught up in some family concerns and will be unable to take this one on.

We will regroup and begin the actual discussion of the book istelf on June 15th.

Meanwhile, please feel free to talk about what it IS about these books that touches YOU? How did you feel when you first read one of her books and WHY did you?

Was it the press, did you see her interviewed, did a friend give you your first one, how did you begin to read her?

Also I notice that several of our participants really care about the characters and want to see how they come out. What does she do to MAKE the reader care? I'm off to get my copy of this book so I can join you, I've NEVER read one and am intrigued and expecting to be bitten, because if I do find an author I like I tend to buy ALL of his books at once so I can have them waiting there for me as....sort of candy in a candy store.

IS there a Mitford? That's a good question. IS there a "Mayberry?" Am I the only one who loves the old Andy Griffith series? I'm a REAL fan, too. I love that old black and white thing. The show did a subtle shift between its first yearand the following episodes, and Griffith abandoned the personna that won him so many accolades as the....(what WAS that movie, "No Time for Sergeants?" or something??) and instead let Barney's character be the silly one (Barney reminds me of myself) and concentrated on showing the good in a small town.

If you have ever seen any of the old Andy Griffith Shows, how do the two towns compare?

And how do the Mitford books compare to the Rabbi books? I always loved them.

Back at ya, book in hand shortly.

ginny

I have read all of Karon's Mitford series and enjoyed them all. I found A New Song to be one of my favorites. I think it really brought out the care and concern of Father Tim for Mitford and Mitford for him even though he wasn't physically present. And what fun to join him in his new venture with new characters. Weren't you just pulling for him in his dealings with Morris Love?

Someone asked .... is there a Mitford? I rather think all small towns are much like Mitford. They have their local cafe and coffee shop where locals gather and solve all the worlds problems. They have their little tifs and grudges, but when something happens to anyone in town, they all pull together. There is caring and concern. I think that is what is appealing about the books. Those of us who live in small town America (as I do) can put local names on the characters in his book.

Yes Ginny....there is a resemblance to Mayberry. I too loved the Andy Griffeth show.....loved that Opie. There is that small town busybody feeling at times, but when they need to pull together, they sure do.

My copy of A New Song is due back at the library today so hope I remember enough when the real discussion begins.

Northern Joan

Marelin:

Yes, Gail Godwin was raised in Asheville, where I live. I like most of her books. A Southern Family was indeed autobiographical, and she called Asheville Mountain City, as I remember. Many of the references seemed familiar - geographically or historically. She now lives in New York State. Her last book (which I haven't yet read) is based in Western North Carolina, and it's main character is a woman priest in the Episcopal church.

I agree with the comments on small towns being similiar. I grew up in one of about 5000, and we had the local drugstore with soda fountain, sort of like Ellie's.

One time a deputy sheriff left his police car outside a cafe, with the motor running - a group of teens drove it around the corner and left it - it was kind of a Barney thing!

A fellow we know who works at the local county/city jail recently told us they have their Otis, too. He makes his way to the jail, however, in this modern age, he has to ring a call bell, and he is observed on a monitor. A patrol is called, and he is usually taken to a local shelter. He says he can't find his way home - but can find the jail!

Back to books: As I posted before, I ran across Jan Karon's first book almost by accident, and I am pleased she has gone on to national fame.

Marilyn

Marilyn, you live in Asheville? I live in Upstate SC! Small world!

I think one of the things that endeared Mayberry to me was the depiction of Everyman in the characters, and am quite anxious to see if the Mitford series follows suit, will know more tomorrow.

As you say, seems like every town has it's Otis and Barney (I always identified with the character of Barney, always thought that was me, in spades).

Don Knotts (I am SUCH a fan) said in Charlotte once when he came there that he had based the character on a real person he once saw give a speech. People had asked him (this was about 3 years ago) if he would "do" a little Barney for them but he politely refused, saying that it took him a long time to get "into" the Barney character, and if he tried it now he would ruin it.

Interesting. He's a very humble, gracious person.

I think it would be a rare person who could not identify with ONE of the Mayberry characters. I think we like to hope in America these small towns represent the BEST and what really IS in contrast to the headlines.

I hope so too.

ginny

OK!! I've read the first 55 pages and am ready to begin, have a lot of thoughts and questions for you old timers as this is my first book in the series.

First off, the author does manage to create a special place almost immediately, doesn't she? Her grasp of the local idiom and speech patterns is very well done, that's very hard to do. I haven't seen "hit" as in "Hit's a nice day," in years, but her dialogues ring true.

I notice a subtle thing she does. She has this happy calm atmosphere and then BAM she throws in some poignant thing which jerks you out of your chair such as the Billy/ Rose story where all is happy until we learn that he went to the library to try to understand his wife's condition only to learn that, in fact, he couldn't understand the book. Heartbreaking right in the midst of happy.

In this first section, I was taken a little aback by the tenant's not minding a teenage boy living in the basement? Hello? Excuse me, would that be normal? hmmmmm. I have a feeling this is a plot twist coming up later.

I can't believe the literary references the author throws out, Arthur Quiller-Couch, famous from Helene Hanff's (84 Charing Cross Road) descriptions, ON THE ART OF READING, now THERE is a book I never heard of and if I possibly can, I am going to have it, myself, before the sun sets, he was SUCH a wonderful teacher. Father Tim and Cynthia are readers, which endears them both to me immediately: I love to read about readers!

Father Tim is a real "father" to the town, isn't he? He's a man who goes thru life on faith, trying to do good and constantly astonished at the world around him, and trying to hang on?

That's a very potent mix. James Herriott used it in all his books, tho religion as such was not mentioned there. Stephen King used is in his books without any sort of religious influence, but the man vs the world is very prominent in his books.

It's a common theme and makes the reader immediately latch on to the character.

How about that vocabulary? How many of you, no cheating now, know what mussitation is? I didn't. I do like a book which forces me to look up words.

So here we have a sweet simple town, everything nice, with undertones of true poignancy and sadness, but the understanding that Father Tim will prevail, I like it already.

Where is the new town? Maddening, isn't it? The cover shows Spanish moss, that would be Savannah and environs but wild ponies are mentioned which suggests (sp) Chincoteague? Hmmmm. Now wonder why she had to retire him, so he could go out as Interim Priest and encounter new parishes and problems?

I don't know about leaving a 16 year old boy, that's kind of iffy and who is this Harley who seems to look after everybody? Would YOU allow a 16 year old boy to spend the summer without your supervision?

Tell you what brought me up short? The lawn cutting. Father Tim tells Dooley that he was going to pay 20 per lawn for their two lawns but to help out he'll pay that to Dooley who then says I'll do both for 35. Boy I can see right now that my poor children were expected to do maybe too much: they would have cut OURS free and then found other work. At 16, yes they would. And did. Poor kids I'm beginning to see we carried filial obligations a little far! hahahahaa

What do you think about any of the above or anything else?

ginny

Ginny....I think if you didn't read the first four books, you don't understand some of the stuff going on here. The house with the teen ager living in the basement is the old rectory (which Father Tim bought if I remember correctly). They had the basement remodeled so Harley could have an apartment there. Harley and Dooley both are projects of Father Time. People he has 'rescued' and helps all he can. The upstairs of the house was then rented out. Tim and Cindy renovated and added on to her former house, just through the bushes, to have for their retirement place.

Dooley had this summer job at the grocery store and was going to be under the supervision of Harley. He is not Father Tim's son but has lived with him since he was a young boy. He had been living with his grandfather who became ill and couldn't take care of him....sooo. As you will find out....Dooley will be very well taken care of, but he doesn't know it yet.

No I didn't know what "mussitation" meant. Good grief....never heard of it.

I am amazed at what you pick up on in a book. I just read it and lots of those details go right over my head! It is such fun to see your comments.

As for location....it is an island so I assume one of the coastal islands in Southern part of the state.

Northern Joan

You have lots of questions and Joan has done a great job of answering them.I believe he went to the coastal islands of North Carolina.I am not familar with the area but it sure sounds beautiful.I read this when it first came out in hard cover so my memory is a little vague.I do love the relationship between father Tim and Cynthia.She is a little less stringent than Father Tim which only enhances thier loving relationship.Until Father Tim and Cynthia adopted Dooley he had a very difficult life thru no fault of his which if continued would have created many problems for him.Has this book piqued your imagination enough to start reading from number one?<g>

Ginny: You are indeed getting a lot more out of the book than I!

I get interested in the plot and sometimes have a tendency to read too fast over some items.

Yes, I would suggest getting the first 4 books which set up the town residents very well. I found I had to go back and look up some of the stories mentioned.

As far as where the location is - I had first thought the Outer Banks of N.C. but when the distance between it and Mitford was mentioned, it seemed too far to be the Outer Banks. The moss sounds more like S.C. but there are wild ponies on Shackelford Island near Beaufort. I keep intending to get out the atlas and do some estimating distances. Asheville is about 400+ miles to the Outer Banks, and as I recall, she mentioned something about driving 600 miles from Mitford. (This may be a poor memory.)

Back to Don Knotts: He and Tim Conway are my two favorite comics. Does anyone watch Biography? They have done excellent ones on both fellows.

Ginny, I will have to look up Pauline, S.C.

Happy reading, all.

Marilyn

Hey Grape Stomper:

You have to read the first four books to find out that Dooley is not really alone. If you like the the speech patterns of Dooley you have to read the first 2 books. when Father Tim gets Dooley that is the way he talks all the time. I enjoyed reading Dooleys speech as much as anything else in the books. He does not do it as much now because he is almost grown and goes to a fancey school. At first it was great. When he first got the dog just before he got Dooley the dog was described as the size of the back seat of a buick. Really got to read the first four Miss Ginny There is a realationship between Father Tim and a rich old lady that lived in a mansion on top of a hill in Mitford which is not to be missed and also will explain what will happen to Dooley later in life.

Marilyn,yes Biography is must see TV.Don Knotts was recently on talk shows promoting his new book and he was a delightful guest ,told great stories about his days working with Andy Griffith. This discussion about the location in A New Song is giving me a much needed geography lesson .

Ginny I feel bad for you in here. To start with book 5 is like coming in at the very end of a movie. Maybe you are hurrying and reading the first four??

hahaha, no, in fact, Judy, the book stands alone pretty well. I'm not having a problem grasping the inferences, they're pretty clear. And you're very clever to see the swing in language in Dooley, it's interesting.

Yet Dooley's voice is not the most true, to me, how about it, marelin, you're in NC, is Dooley's voice the most authentic? I don't think so, myself.

He's sort of, as Judy has pointed out, a hybrid.

Northern Joan, I still would not rent an house with a teen aged boy in the basement, no matter who was watching over him, but this tenant is a bit strange, isn't she? I'm on page 160 and she's peering in windows and asking to tour Father Tim's house? Very odd.

As far as the kind remarks on what I seem to see in a book, that's the direct benefit of our SeniorNet Book Clubs. I read very fast and usually miss everything, and I mean everything, especially in mysteries, boy do I miss everything. But since reading with our SeniorNet Book Clubs I have learned a bit how to look at a book and I actually get a lot out of it.

Location, Marelin and Northern Joan mention, boy it's driving me nuts. Note she mentions Rogers and Scuppernong (that last word is the variety of grapes we grow, they're native to Manteo which she also mentions) but then, remember she throws in COLUMBIA!!! Now unless there is a Columbia North Carolina and it is near the coast, friends, we have passed thru Columbia SC and are on our way to the islands off the Georgia or SC coast.

WHERE is Pamlico Sound? Is there such a thing? Inquiring minds driven crazy by this want to know.

Marelin you mentioned the relationship of Father Tim and Cynthia, I agree, it's quite special, loved the scene with the little boy where she said where is the division of labor in this marriage when Father Tim desperately wanted to show him shadow puppets, that was darling.

Loved the lemonade setting of the light "taking time to smell the roses" times, and also Karon's use of the word Counterpane, is that a city or something? If not she just threw in one of my favorite images.

Yes I think I will go back and read the first 4, if for nothing else than I like the characters and the way she writes.

The strange thing is all the things this brings up in my own mind. I have BEEN Senior Warden and Junior Warden 4 years in a row, I believe. My best friend Sandy is the wife of an Episcopal priest (she read the first one and liked it and asked yesterday, "Well did he get married?") So you can see that the story line remains of interest long after the book is closed.

Marilyn, I did NOT know Don Knotts had written a new book, must have, total fan!! Thank you for mentioning the Biography and the book!!!

In this section there are a lot of interesting concepts, the yellow line and the idea that that might be good for marriages, that's very interesting. I've actually heard of that before, have any of you?

I loved the scenes in the downpour with the convertible and the manual and the top which would not go up, what a hoot~!

Several concepts are casually thrown in: "fun, a thing he was always seeking to understand and claim for his own." Kinda poignant.

Father Tim, in a way, is perfect. When trouble arises, he prays and tries to do the right thing. He's presented with some pretty strong problems, tho, the parisioner with the brain tumor and the distraught wife?

Now the part about Janette and the child that eats spaghetti for breakfast (forget the name), the child part is not going to happen, Social Services would have moved in immediately, that's not true, but it's cute anyway and shows his kindness.

I love the quotes, the Wordsworth, the gentleness of the man.

"Buddyroe" is usually pronounced "Bud roe." I wonder why that distinction was not made in the book.

OH and please tell me how this "th'" would sound? I can't imagine it and don't think I've heard it?

The descriptions of the phone conversations are certainly right on, they could be tapes, have you ever talked to anybody who talked to somebody else or a dog or a child half the time? hahahaha Sounds just exactly like that.

So where I am now in the plot, everybody wants them to come home, and it's a struggle for Father Tim. Dooley's in jail, he's advanced Dooley another bit of money toward the car, but thinks of the $60,000 remaining his mother left him, it's an interesting book.

So far, most of the negatives seem to come from the situations and the people around him, not he, himself, and that seems interesting. I loved the scenes at the hospital, tho, maybe we really wish we knew somebody like Father Tim or perhaps hope that there are people out there like them? So far, if he has a flaw, I don't see it, and that may or may not be important.

ginny

AHA!! There IS a Columbia, NC, and of course it's on the way to Manteo and Nag's Head on the coast of North Carolina, how elver of the author but Pamlico Sound does not show on the map I have?

Aha!

ginny

Ginny--

I always figured that Counterpane referred to the "Land of Counterpane" in one of the verses in Stevenson's Child's Garden of Verses". If I remember the book correctly, Father Tim has a special place he goes where he can look out over an expansive view and it is that view that he calls Counterpane. Of course, it's been awhile since I read these books, so I could be wrong.

My take on Counterpane is also that it is from Robert Lewis Stevenson's Land of Counterpane.

I think Father Tim's flaws (if you want to call them that) show up in book II....when he was courting(?) Cynthia. That was my least favorite of the books as he seemed to never do what he should do, and was forever in doing anything.

Northern Joan

Isn't this a great discussion?! As I said before, I am "a bit prejudiced" being from Western North Carolina, and Mitford (based on Blowing Rock) isn't too far from me.

Pamlico Sound is the large body of water between the Outer Banks and the mainland - upper NE corner of North Carolina.

Scuppernongs I am familiar with, but the Spanish Moss threw me for a loop. Maybe I just wasn't there at the right season. Although when we have been in S.C. and Georgia, it seemed like the moss was always on the trees. Love those gorgeous live oaks!

About the dialect - we have lived here over 15 years. and I hear many different ones. I think it depends on what part of the Appalachians one was raised (educated), as well as family speech patterns.

I was raised in Central Illinois, and to my delight, I hear expressions and pronounciations (sp) that my family used. (Wonder if some of my maternal ancestors emigrated from the Appalachians to Illinois way, way back?)

Marilyn (in W.N.C.)

Oh my we really have you confused(g)Marilyn is from NC I am Marelin. I was born and lived all my life in Massachusetts.Can't you hear my Boston accent?(lol)Recently retired to New Hampshire.I so enjoy books with southern locales.

Marilyn, well thank you for that, I don't know if it's a good discussion or not but I'm enjoying the heck out of it!

Marelin, you don't know the half of it. After I finished typing yesterday I said to self, you Fool, Marilyn and Marelin are the same person, you keep talking to each one but they are the same person! But you aren't!!!

hahahaha

And isn't there a third Marilyn here too? Boy, it's a wonder I can even type!

So we've got Marilyn in NC and Marelin in NH or have I got that wrong too? hahahaha

SOOOO Pamlico Sound IS off NC but the Spanish Moss is not? What to think of this development?

Jeanlock and Northern Joan, that's what I was hoping he was referring to, a wonderful poetic image, I often think of it, myself. Is that the one which starts "When I was sick and lay abed, I had three pillows for my head?" I've always loved that poem, if that's the same one.

AHA!! Northern Joan, so Achilles does have a heel after all, I need to read Book II but apparently people like Father Tim as he is in this sunny book. (I had to laugh at his impression of the new priest at Lord's Chapel: page 201 "Wears a halo, he thought, has wings.)"

I'm willing to bet you that's exactly what 99 percent of priests who read this series, if they do read this series, think of Father Tim, but I have no inside knowledge of same.

I must say our Cynthia is beginning to grate just a little on the old nerves, pretty darn perfect?

Who was it who said it was 600 miles? You're right. "when it's twelve hundred miles round trip..." Page 166.

Spelling error in the news article on page 198: "Mallory Property Sight of Tension Over Town History," I can't understand it, especially in the light of the authors assertion on page 200, "the only good news was that J.C. Hogan had evidently installed software with a spell check." ???

What's going on there, the entire article misspells this word?

Is this another "inside joke?"

Who is this Buck Leeper, now he is not explained fully?

I love the way he shares books and discusses books and I loved this: "Did I tell you how we buried Mother?" " I don't believe so." "Holding the 1928 prayer book clasped to her heart." "A fine way to go."

I love that. There was a big controversy about switching to the new prayer book a long time ago, and here the author has Father Tim affirming that it's OK to cling to the past instead of shaking his head....I like that, very much.

Marelin, why do you like books about the South, particularly?

Well, page 217 and counting. Which of the characters appeals to you the most and is there ANY character, now think on this a bit, is there ANY character whom you personally could say you know another like in real life?

ginny

Ginny....Buck Leper is another Father Tim "project". You need to read the first book! And the other three.

Cynthia is pretty darned perfect, isn't she? But she hasn't bothered me.

Northern Joan

Northern Joan, I KNOW I need to read all the other books, but to be realistic here, there is NO way I can do that before this discussion ends, I'm scratching to get THIS one read!

But I will read them, at a, perhaps, more leisurely pace. They do make good before bed books.

I've been wondering this, too? Is there just a touch in this book of Ozzie and Harriet ism? IN other words (and I LOVED Ozzie and Harriet, don't get me wrong) but does the author here present people we wish we were like? I wish I were more like Cynthia, she's perfect. IS she a model we all could ascribe to be like?

Remember Ozzie? Always at home with a suit. Never seemed to actually work at a job? What a sweet man he was, what a joyful family. People have criticized the series, saying that it presented a view of family life which was totally unlike reality. It reminds me of British television, for years the announcers used such refined voices but now the commercials on British TV, (unlike ours) don't aspire to the BEST life or the highest goals (the beautiful car in front of the mansion with the horse saddled nearby like we have in American commercials)... (always wondered what you were supposed to do with a horse AND a car) but appeal to the common man, the very common man. Apparently the class distinctions in England are a sore subject, but here in America we want to aspire to the BEST!

Anyway, is THIS book like the idealized portayal of America or do you actually know somebody like this?

Inquiring Mind hahahaahah

Yes, Ginny, do read all the books. I found they were easy to read as you could read a page or two and be at a logical break point.

Perhaps, you are right about the ideal setting. But maybe that isn't all bad. I'd rather see the ideal family of Ozzie and Harriet than some of the stuff on TV now. Sassy kids, parents with problems and kids with bigger problems....what kind of aspiration does that give anyone?

Just a thought./

Northern Joan

Northern Joan:

NO aspiration! You're totally right there, they SAY it's "reality," but it's no reality I'm familiar with. Maybe that's one good reason why Karon's books are so popular.

Remember the tv series Good Times? It was about a black family with a very sassy skinny teenage young man, can't remember his name. However I do know that the woman who played the mother, Esther Rolle, absolutely pitched a fit because she felt that his character was way too smart mouthed and was not realistic nor one she wanted to see portrayed. I just found that out and think it was very good of her....What WAs his name, he was always going "DynoMITE."

I have never liked "smart mouthed" kids. For that matter, I don't like smart mouthed adults, either. If I can't get away with it, neither should they.

ginny

Ginny--

That's the very one. I just couldn't remember the beginning. You know, I think I'll try to find a copy of that book again. We had access to very few books when I was a child, but that was one my mother used to read to me. The other poem from there that I liked was, "Oh how I like to go up in a swing--" (can't remember any more of that, either. Must find the book.

Joan Liimatta--

Yes, she is just about perfect. But far from resenting it, I find myself wishing I had had her wisdom when dealing with situations in my life. Maybe we need to see some ideal of perfection so that we know what we strive for, or, as a college professor quoted once, "A man's reach must exceed his grasp, or what's a heaven for?"

Oh how I love to go up in a swing,
Up in the air so blue,
I do think it's the pleasentest thing
That ever a child can do?

That's the best I can recall!!

ginny

I am sorry I'm afraid I,myself, have caued the confusion of the Marilyns.My "real"name is Marilyn and at Senior Net I am Marelin.I might have inadvertantly signed Marilyn instead of Marelin and thus started this mix up.From now on I am Marelin from NH.Why do I like Southern Books ? I find (if written well)they give a very accurate portrayal of Southern life from the past and in the present.Am I correct?

Yes, there are at least 2 of us. I am the one in Asheville, N.C. It's kind of funny - I don't run into very many Marilyn's. Names must go in cycles - for instance, there must be 7 or 8 Louise's in our church. But that is off the subject of this book!

I agree a little about Cynthia. She seems too good to be true at times. Yet she understands Father Tim so well, and she has put up with his parishioners - read about the fabulous tea she gave in - was it "Out to Canaan"? I think it was the book before this one. I also like Violet - who also puts up with Barnaby.

This morning our associate pastor in his Pentecost sermon, read an excerpt from "At Home in Mitford"! I need to go back and read it again - but it was a scene where Father Tim finds a man in the sanctuary praying loudly and asking God "Are you really up there?" Tim talks with him - but I won't give away his wise response to the question. See, Ginny, you just have to read these books.

I love books like these where I feel I know the characters and look forward to the next one.

Tomorrow I WILL look in the atlas or the N.C. map and try to figure out the 600+ miles, etc.

Marilyn (the one in N.C.)

Oh Ginny, what sweet memories you have brought me. My Mother used to say that "swing" poem to me when I was small.

Ginny--

Yep, that's it. Thanks. I'll try to see if I can find the book next time I'm in a book store (after I get out and about again)

MaryPage--

Do you think McKay's would have it? (Child's Garden of Verses by R.L.Stevenson)

Better late than never!! I'm getting used to my nightly "fix" on the Mitford series too! (Is there some connection, I wonder, between the author whose last name is Mitford and who writes about small British towns?) Just wondering that, maybe that's where she got the idea?

Marilyn, how about that, isn't it unusual that when you read a book it seems people are making references to it all around, that's another way reading opens the doors of our consciousness, I bet you nearly jumped out of your pew!

Marelin, oopsie, I have no clue. I'm a child of the Philadelphia streets, originally, tho all my family is from North and South Carolina, so I'm certainly no judge about Southern literature. I like Clyde Edgerton, have any of you read him? He's awfully good, very very good.

Shirley, I'm glad you enjoyed that poem, spent half of yesterday, since Jeanlock was kind enough to give the author and title, trying to find a copy of it on the Internet. No luck. Don't want to download the entire GARDEN of VERSES; thought I had it somewhere.

Wonder if it really starts out How do you like to go up in a swing instead of OH how I like?

Seems like that's more accurate?

I loved this and failed to mention it: on transplanting people or plants: (page 173) "First came the wilt, then the gradual settling in, the the growth spurt." I like that. I seem to be stuck in the wilt stage, perhaps permanently. Or maybe my recent weight gain is the growth spurt! hahahahaha

In this next section (up now to page 282) LOVED the trip out in the fishing boat, just loved it, but the author, after having our Father Tim nearly die of heat prostration, never mentioned his sunburn again? Gave that section the appearance of having just been stuck in there, no reference before or after. Strange.

Like very much the exchange between Morris and Father Tim, that's getting good, too. Tehre must have been a lot of organs built into old houses, I remember a Don Knotts movie about same, too.

Wonder what Junior actually wrote to Ava, that's keeping me turning pages till I find out?

What is meant by the sentence, (on page 272) "Melchior was my grandfather's close acquaintance." I know who Melchior was, what does this mean??

And now a lawsuit, wow. Strange tenant all around, I TOLD you she was strange!!!

Listen, has it ever been explained why Father Tim spells his last name Kavangh instead of the more usual Kavanaugh?

(I know, I know read the books, surely you can tell me that one thing? ) hahahahahaha

WEll, it's a fun series, a gentle read, with some real excitement and adventure thrown in, with nice people who can throw lawn parties, just a nice gentle read with just the right amount of self doubt and longing.

I do like it a lot.

ginny

Don't you all just love Ginny's questions? Not that I can answer many. I, too, wondered, about the spelling of his name. I don't remember reading anything about it. I have loaned the book, so I can't refer to specific pages right now.

John Edgerton: Yes, one of my favorites. If you like him, you might like T. R. Pearson, also a N.C. writer. Another favorite of mine is Lee Smith. Most of her books are set in Virginia. Try "Fair and Tender Ladies". Perhaps some of hers have been discussed here - I am fairly new to the book discussions.

Right now I am reading Fannie Flagg's "Welcome to the World, Baby Girl" in condensed form - (from neighbor's yard sale). Usually I don't read them in this form, but it caught my eye. If I like it, I will check on the full length. I am not into it far enough to give an opinion, but I liked Fannie's "Fried Green Tomatoes". (They are good to eat, too!).

One more: A sort of deep writer is Reynolds Price. Not the easiest to read, but his characters are very real. And odd. Maybe that's because he is a professor at Duke.

Marilyn

I found the whole Child's Garden through geocities.com and am busily printing it all out. Many that I had forgotten came back the minute I saw the first lines. As for Counterpane--

When I was sick and lay abed
I had two pillows at my head,
And all my toys beside me lay
To keep me happy all the day

Verse 2

Verse-3

Verse 4 (This is the Father Tim reference--

I was the giant great and still
That sits upon the pillow hill,
And sees before him, dale and plain
The pleasant land of counterpane.

I've printed them all out and think I'll take them to the hospital with me. Just the sort of comforting thing I think I'll be needing about tomorrow evening.

I remember that poem and had it in the childrens books but have no idea of where it is now. I really agonized over Father Tim's decision on weather to go to Mitford to be with Dooley or stay and help with the hurricane. Did you all think he made the right decision??

Judy

Judy:

I wondered about his decision for a while. Perhaps he was right in that he was helping more people in his new community, and he felt that Dooley had other friends in Mitford who would stand by him.

Marilyn

I know but I always worry about the people in Mitford. After 4 books they got to be like family. I was thinking these people he hardly knew and look at his family in Mitford ethat needed him. I kind of like the guy next door through the woods with the organ. I knew sooner or larter he would wear him down. Chaseing Barnabus through his yard is too funny.

Father Tim made the only decision he could have made. His church was damaged and people expect you to be there. Besides, how could they have had that delightful fly-in if he hadn't?

I think he knew Dooley was innocent and somehow trusted his God to help out.

Barnabas has given us many chuckles in these books. I think one of the funniest was in the first book when Father Tim was giving Barnabas a bath.

Northern Joan

Hi everyone, it's been some time since I posted, but my webtv was out.....I have a new one and I'm back. I just browsed through all of the postings and I must say what a lot of varied ideas and opinions. I've never discussed books before, except with my niece, who is an avid reader. Northern Joan, in your one note, you mentioned Ozzie & Harriet being better than what is seen on TV. I say not just on TV, go in any grocery store and see how the kids are sassing thier Mom or demanding something. The Mom's don't see to even notice. Is it because we're seniors that we notice things like that? Ginny, I think you've got the gist - Read the first 4 books. Why don't you go into the discussions on the other books, maybe you'll learn something there. I guess I'll get book #5 out again and reread it. I do that with a lot of my books. In an earlier posting, I said the town where I grew up was almost like that. Almost. We had a drug store with a soda fountain, and when in high school I worked there as the Soda Jerk.....It was fun and the kids from school all hung out there and gave me a bad time. We had 2 movie theatres, but the one near my home was the most popular. It was right across the street from the Drug Store, and next to the Theatre was the Karmelkorn shop. I can still smell it. Back to the Book.....The hurrican scenes were really something. Poor Cynthia. somehow in reading it, I figured out who would save her. That's all for now. Ruth

Where is everyone - Reading? Did I scare you off when I posted? I thought I'd have more to read. Guess I'll have to get a book out. Talked with my niece, who lives in N.C. She thought the story took place in Outer Banks. as I said, I'll get it out and read it again. Talk to you later. Ruth

Ruth!! (imaknitter)

Welcome, welcome!!!! No, I've been remiss while I've been fooling around with some other stuff and we're delighted to see you here.

I have finished the book now, and loved the scene when the organist came down from the organ loft, now THAT was really good and for some reason I did not expect it, loved that. Remind me to tell you all some day when hell freezes over about my own substitution at the organ one Sunday.

The storm scenes were fabulous, but I have some problems with the nail thru the hand thing, just some reservations there, think that was possibly a bit overdone?

What did you think of the end of the book? What does the author mean? Will we find out in her next book????

I've had more discussions with people on this book, and everybody seems to have enjoyed it; let's put it this way, I have never met anybody who disliked the series, have any of you all?

I have heard of people who didn't finish book one, but nobody who disliked it.

I'm going crazy looking for the Thomas a Kempis (was it?) quote? I love the way the book is peppered with beautiful quotes and that one just blew me out of the water but I can't FIND it again!

Also I did order on Monday the Arthur Quiller-Couch book ON THE ART OF READING and they say it should come today, am so excited, I owe Karon for that one, had never heard of it.

Cynthia seems to be longing for Mitford again, what do you think??

ginny

Ruth glad to see you here, you will enjoy it.

I went and dug out the book to see what it was about the end I nearly went mad when I read the last paragrath. WHO IS HE TALKING TOO????? I am dying to know and I'll bet I won't find out til the next book comes out. I have the first four in paper back but by then was soo hooked that I bought the fifth one in hardback.

I like the little used book store with all the westerns. I liked theguy with the old mansion and the organ. He is in terrible pain yet I knew Father Timothy would get to him. I wonder if he will be in the next book?? This discussion makes me want to start the series over again just to remember what all I have forgotten, which is probably most of it.

It HAS been a fun discussion and we'll leave it open for comments, it's low key like the books. I'm hoping SOMEBODY can find the Thomas a Kempis reference, that thing just jolted me out of my chair.

One thing I did notice about the style of the book while looking for the quote was that there are a million and one paragraphs? Everything is either in dialogue, or very short paragraphs or actually broken down into sections? This has the happy facility of easy reading and keeping the reader hooked as it does not appear daunting. You may notice Agatha Christie did that.

Just a thought, anybody have any other thoughts this morning on the book?

ginny

I've picked up the book again determined to finish it this time. I'm wondering if Jan Karon is planning any "Violet" spin-off children's series? I'm sort of a collector of children's books that are well illustrated or written by celebrities.

EmmaBarb, it says in the back that she has completed a book called JEREMY, THE TALE OF AN HONEST BUNNY. Says it has 80 pages, fully illustrated in color, apparently Jeremy is an English stuffed bunny who learns that he was made for someone in NC, so he tries to deliver himself to NC and learns he needs a lot of help. It actually looks good, I like to look at children's books first, tho, before I buy them, at least hers will probably have a plot and and ending, two things often missing from children's books. As well, maybe as a moral.

Why did you stop in the reading of A New Song?

ginny

Hi, everyone:

Have you ever wondered if the writers of books under discussion read what we are saying? While I doubt Jan Karon is in the "Senior" set, maybe someone has told her about the group. It would be neat to hear from her, wouldn't it?

In our Sunday paper, there was an interesting article about Western North Carolina authors. There are over a hundred at least! I was surprised at the list. Our governor has an official "Western" residence here, which is available to civic or private groups at certain times for meetings, etc. They have now established a library there with the books of all these writers, Jan Karon, being among them. I would love to go there and browse! All these authors were invited to the opening - didn't say how many came.

I read somewhere (can't remember where) that she may be planning a book on a couple who travel in an R.V. Now, I hope I didn't dream that one up.

Marilyn

http://www.askjeeves.com/main/followup.asp?qCategory=LIT_&ask=Jan+Karon&qSource=4&origin=0&frames=yes&site_name=Jeeves&metasearch=yes&r=x&aj_ques=snapshot%3DJeeves%26kbid%3D51986%26item1%3D61104-1288048&aj_logid=5C19001B7645D41180C000A0C9AD1C3C&aj_rank=1&aj_score=1&aj_list1=61104-1288048&IMAGE1.x=22&IMAGE1.y=9. Well I hope this turns out to be something I want it to. Better check it out oh great guru. I am trying to find Jan Karons e-mail address. But must quit for tonight.

Ginny, Thanks for the info about the bunny book....I shall look for it but was hoping for a "Violet" one. I didn't stop reading A New Song....I just put it aside for a while because of interest in a couple other books I'm also reading. Also because this one is hard back, I find it more difficult to hold while reading. The paperbacks are so much easier for me with this carpal tunnel syndrome in both wrists and thumbs. Wish I had an easier way to hold the hardbound books. The paperbacks fits easier in my purse also.

Marilyn - I thought I saw where Jan karon was already a senior citizen...born in 1937. It would be fun if she's make an appearance here.

Judy Laird - I would think you could contact Jan Karon through Penguin Putnam Publishing Co.

Re Marilyn's suggestion.That would be interesting to find out what the authors think of our discussions.I had to stop contributing to the discussion because as I mentioned previously I read Book 5 in hard cover when it first came out and I am afraid I have forgotten quite a bit.I tried to get it at the library to refresh my memory but it was out.I am enjoying these discussions as a way to be reintroduced to it.As for the ride in the plane, that was a true act of faith on Fr Tim's part<vbg>

Hello everyone. I see a lot of you were in on the 18th. I didn't look in last night. Went in to "California" "Illinois" & "Iowa" all placesI lived. Judy Laird: I'm with you going back and read the books again to see what I missed. I waited til the book came out in paperback to add to my series. However, a friend let me read the hard back. I don't know of anyone I've talked with that couldn't say enough good things about the book. One of the gals in my knitting class is a neighbor to Jan's sister. I'd like to meet her? In this last book, I liked the way he kept in touch with Mitford via the answering machine!!!!What do you all think of his secretary back in Mitford? Isn't she funny. Cant you just see her fussin' about that computer. Back when I was doing bookkeeping by hand. My boss wanted to get a computer and I wouldn't hear of it. I could kick myself now. See you later.

Ruth: Where did you go in Illinois, if you don't mind me asking. We leave Thurs. 22nd for central Illinois for a family reunion. I like seeing everyone - just don't like the interstate driving between N.C. and there.

It was mentioned that Jan Karon was born in 1937 - I didn't realize that. She looks much younger in her pictures, guess that's why I didn't think she was "senior" status.

I will miss reading here, and I expect to find lots of messages when we return around July l.

Marilyn

Well, we will certainly miss you, Marilyn, and have a sfe and careful trip. We look forward to seeing you when you return!

ginny

Imaknitter yes I believe I have to read them all again. I often tell my husband that we will have it easy soon. We will need two movies and two books. We will just do them over and over and never know the difference. Can't remember much.

I am thankful to my daughter who sent me a used computer about5 or 6 years ago, if it hadn't been for her I would never have gotten started and look at what I would have missed and all the nice people I've met and the friends I have made. The computer and senior net in particular are a wonderful thing.

Getting ready to leave. Only have to sleep in my bed 2 more nights. VEGAS HERE I COME

I am jealous.I love Vegas.Was there last year.Have fun and good luck.Be sure and tell us about your Las Vegas visit when you return. I laughed at your 2 book, 2 movie .That sounds like my hb and I.

Marilyn Baker: We are having a luncheon in Tinley Park, IL, July 3rd. You are very welcome. Details on the Illinois Page

Hello everyone. Have fun in Vegas. I was there last week in Dec.'99 Be sure and go to the Rio - It's not a real big casino, but they put on a fantastic show. You'd almost believe you were at the Mardi Gras. We sat up in an area with tables & had a drink. Drink was a little pricey, but we enjoyed the show. Balaggio is another fantastic Casino. Ruth

I'm half way thru the book now. It amazes me how Jan Karon can make every character have their very own individuality and I never can second guess what is going to happen next. I don't want to say anything else to give it away but this book is full of surprises.

It sure is, EmmaBarb, and it stays that way till the very last page! Lots of good plot here, she doesn't skimp on that.

If one of you wants to write her, please do, and invite her in here maybe we could ask a question or two!

ginny

We had a Jan Karon page here....or was it a Newsletter ....posted earlier. I bed she might have an e-mail address there.

Aha, I still see it posted up in the heading. Seems a logical place to begin.

N. Joan

Somebody with more confidence than I have write her? That's not my area of expertise!!!

MY BOOK CAME!! Yes, my On the Art of Reading by Arthur Quiller-Couch came (Judy kept saying "I got a book I ordered the next day!")

Ah yes, but this one is special?

I noticed that there were several choices at bibliofind.com but they all seemed to be in England and featured the Cambridge Edition, so of course, that was the edition I wanted. There were a couple of American sources so I chose the best condition one and it just came and it's SOOOO nice. Little green book, gold lettering and on the front of it (not the spine) there's a gold Q!!! I love that. So pretty, love the Cambridge editions. Already I'm amassing great quotes, listen to this one: "We make our discoveries through our mistakes: we watch one another's success: and where there is freedom to experiment there is hope to improve." I love that! THAT shall be the mantra of the Books & Lit on SeniorNet, don't you think? That was written July 7, 1920. And WE think we are the only ones thinking.

How about this one? "Reading maketh a Full Man"--Bacon

How about this one? "Some books are to be Tasted, Others to be Swallowed, and Some Few to be Chewed and Digested: that is, come Bookes are to be read onely in Parts; Others to be read but not Curiously; and some Few are to be read wholly, and with Diligence and Attention."---Bacon

Marvelous, wonderful book. I LOVE a book which makes reference to other literary feasts!

ginny

I went on a retreat last weekend and re-read At Home in Mitford. I enjoyed it even more the second time around, now that I am familiar with all the characters. Think I will re-read the entire set..what delightful reading.

Judy, I hope you have a great time in Vegas, and DO go to the Rio to see the Mardi Gras show. I was there last month with my daughter and son. I had not been there for some 20 years and amazed at the changes. Each hotel is like a city within itself.

I finished "A New Song" this evening. Funny thing happened last night I was reading about the hurricane and it was pouring and thunder and lightening here to beat the band......and I just kept on reading. I must have missed something though....don't remember reading what was in the ivory envelope Father Tim gave to Miss Pringle? What was it? Or at least tell me what page it's on. That whole thing turned out to be a surprise, in fact Jan Karon is hard to second guess. I look forward to book six. But in the meantime I'll get back to my book "The Vision of Emma Blau" and finish that.

Misty I have been thinking the same thing, when I grab a minute I think I will read the whole series over again, it could be more fun the second time around. I can't wait to see what everyone here thinks about the ending it blew my mind. ( didn't take a BIG explosion). I will be interested to see if the guy with the organ is in book 6. I was so hooked by book 5 I couldn't wait for the paper back and bought the hard cover. Its likely to happen again.

I did not go to Rio this time but did do Paris again. What a Sunday brunch is defies description. They are also extremely generous with their slot machines. I won enough for breakfast before I went in and double that amount when I came out. hehe Must say though I came back a little lighter in the wallet than when I left. Will have to scramble in order to get ready for next foray into the land of wonderful things to see and do.

GINNY...now you read that book in a hurry, or savor it a bit at a time, because you MUST read the other Mitford books...in proper order. I enjoyed them all SO much more than I did this one. I hated that Father Tim and Cynthia left Mitford, even temporarily, and when Jan Karon got so preachy, I started skimming. The new characters were interesting, but couldn't hold a candle to the delicious people in Mitford. That's why I haven't been here right from the git-go...I hated to get crabby in this lovely discussion. It's been fun reading all the posts, tho, and realizing that so many others are as crazy about the first four books as I am.

Now then...did anyone find out when we can expect the next book?

Love...Katie

Well, IS there a call to revisit the series and reread (in your cases) the entire thing? If there is, I need help with it? As I've signed on for the Philip Roth in September to co chair with Sarah and the FLU in August?

But I'm willing, especilaly now that Katie says she's preachy in this one I would like to see the others?

Whatever you all think, but you may have to lead or help lead a couple of them, might be fun??

ginny

Hello to all:

It's good to be home, and today I finally had time to read all the messages from when I was gone.

I found my newsletter "More from Mitford", spring issue. Should be getting the summer one soon. To subscribe free, it says:

email reading@penguinputnam.com or send a postcard with name and address to:

Penguin Marketing Dept. CC Mitford Requests-MFM 375 Hudson Street New York, NY 10014

Allow 4 to 6 weeks for delivery (!)

I just noticed the Mitford on-line is:

www.penguinputnam.com/mitford.

I haven't tried it yet, but will after I close here.

In this issue she says she wants to write about the building of a mid 18th century Georgian house in Virginia. And also she has a novel in progress about a couple past retirement age who borrow a friend's RV and go to Disney World.

There is a recipe for Lew's Squash Pickles, too.

Marilyn

Oh boy, I wonder if it's our Father Tim in Disney World, wouldn't that be fine?

Welcome back, Marilyn!!! We are delighted to see you again!!

Thanks also for the link, I'm getting to be a big fan!

ginny

I just purchased her little book about the honest rabbit she wrote for her daughter. Cute story! She also wrote one "Fannie's Hats" or something like that. I mainly got it for the illustrations though I'm a bit disappointed.

EmmaBarb, did she do the illustrations, too? How would you rate the book overall?

ginny

Ginny, No....the illustrations were done by an artist (off hand I forget the name and the book is downstairs). I'd rate the tale excellent. I'm wondering if there is a rabbit to go with the book. None was with mine though?

I haven't seen it in the bookstores yet, but am going today as a matter of fact, so will specifically look!

Is there anything else that anyone would like to say about this book, the author, or the series before we wrap it up?

Don't want to cut anybody off in an untimely manner!

ginny

Ginny, I do have a question. Why do we wait so long after the Mitford book comes out to begin the discussion? The die-hard Mitford fans cannot wait until the next of the series comes out. I read this book so long ago, and have read so much since, I felt I didn't remember enough to jump in the discussion..or, like Katie, I was disappointed when they left Mitford and all the wonderful characters there. I was going to reread it before the discussion began, but was not that interested in this group of new people, I began to re-read the entire series.

Isn't it interesting how diverse we are in our likes and dislikes. I personally thought this last book was better than most of the others. I probably like the first and last ones best. The second one dragged and got tiresome and the fourth too, but not as bad.

I think she needed some new characters to spice things up. After all, she didn't forget the old ones.

Northern Joan

I'm with you Joan. She didn't forget the old ones, and I liked it when they kept in contact via the answering machine. The new people were somewhat different, but that's how we make new friends. We keep the old and make new. Since moving to Georgia 14 yrs ago, I've made so many new friends. None are like the old ones I had in California, but friends nevertheless.

MARILYN...thanks for the URL. I have just subscribed to Jan Karon's newsletter, and now can hardly wait to receive it.

Here's to Mitford!

First of all what a great discussion. Sorry I couldn't participate but after checking the book out three times from the library I finally finished it just 2 days ago. I liked this book a lot and enjoyed the new characters but also the way Jan Karon interwove many of the characters from Mitford as well.

I thought it was interesting that Father Tim's boss reigned him in when he wanted to return to Mitford to deal with some of the problems of his former church members. He had let his heart overcome his head but then abided by the wishes of the bishop.

Ginny, I would concur with the others who have recommended that you take the time to read the first 4 books of the series. These people were far from perfect but the way they were presented didn't offend or leave the reader feeling uncomfortable.

I also want to thank you Ginny for taking over for me in leading this discussion, if what I did in the other books could be called leading. In answer to the question above, the reason we delayed until June was a concern that the paperback version of the book was not available until the spring and we had been working thru the first 4 books for sometime. While we occasionally read books that are not yet in paperback, we try to avoid that where possible.

I am also looking forward to the next book in the Mitford series and believe I remember reading that there will also be a 7th book in the series, but may be wrong. I expect the author would probably enjoy developing some new lead characters.

Larry

Book One	At Home in Mitford	Discussion Archived
Book Two	Light in the Window	Current Discussion
Book Three	These High Green Hills	Discussion Begins 9/1/99
Book Four	Out to Canaan	Discussion Begins 10/1/99
Book Five	A New Song	Discussion Begins 6/1/2000