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jane

I enjoy reading books set in the Southern US. However, not sure I could handle living there, lol. Humidity and bugs and I don't get along. lol I especially love bayou stories.

AGREED Ginny Ann, I prefer my mature spiders to go to sleep in the fall and wake up as small and young ones. I'm too chicken to garden where the critters have all year to get larger. hehe

Thanks, jane - I do love a clean page (and all the old used ones, too.)

pedln, we're always thrilled to find another Ferrol Sams fan! We recommend him a lot to anybody wanting to read about the south. We have most of his books as part of our permanent library. The three in his autobiographical trilogy are best read in sequence, I think. His small books of short stories are all gems, too.

I love it when an author can convey a great sense of place. Sharyn McCrumb mountain books, Colleen McCullough's Thorn Birds are some that I can really get lost in the setting. Flannery O'Connor represented the southern writers for a class I took in college.

Gaj, I just recently reread "The Thorn Birds" and enjoyed it all over again. Australia must be a wonderful place to visit. Have you ever been there?

Eudora Welty was a truly magnificent southern author. Do try her. Another was Reynolds Price. He wrote especially well about women of the south. Of course Lee Smith writes currently and I like her very much as well as Fannie Flagg. If you like the Virginia area, Rita Mae Brown writes especially well about the flavor of that area. She has written other books besides her Cat series.

Thank you all for the good selection of writers of the South. I placed requests this AM for 2 of Ferrol Sams books from our county library system.

In speaking of "The Thornbirds", I was reminded of a novel I read several years ago about a woman who married and went make her home on a ranch in South America. The description was so vivid that I still remember how comfortable the setting of the place seemed to me. I wish I could recall the title. Seems like it was "The ????? Tree". Our librarian once explained to me how to use the catalog search to find subjects, but I can't recall how she did it.

Oh Betty how I envy you Conway South Carolina I was there one and was thrilled by the town. First time I had ever been on a trip and went to cemetery I was a little taken back by someone wanting to take me to a cemetery. It was fascinating and we saw generation after generation buried in their own areas. I walked down the river on a board walk and saw the lovely old home and the tree's with the moss. Had the best lunch ever at the little bakery deli on main street. Went in antique shops I'm telling you it was great.

Before I pack up my u-haul haha I expect I should go spend some time in the south in the summer. Maybe I couldn't take the bug and heat but I sure would give it a try

Finished Saving Cascadia this morning and that was quite a book. I did enjoy it very much, I don't think they have earth quakes in the south. A few bugs might be not a really bad problem as opposed to sitting on an earth quake fault.

I read a rather low-key story that still held my interest until the end when it just stopped. No real ending. It is "Brief Garlands" by Stanley Middleton and is placed in England. The Times is quoted as saying, "Stanley Middleton, ..., is to the Midlands suburb what Anne Tyler is to the Midwest picket fence." Overlooking the fact that Anne Tyler writes about Baltimore, I don't understand the analogy.

Whew.. Anne Tyler writers about relationships and families both function and disfunction. Have not read the other guy at all.But she is not a folksy sort of writer. I would guess maybe the critic is talking about the fact that Anne Tyler for one does not really have a central plot ever. It is more of a small piece of someones life. Is the other writer like that??

Perkie! Have "Brief Garlands" on hold at the libarary.......And am awaiting an Amazon delivery on some of the books mentioned above....

On the last several pages and wiping the tears from my eyes...it is so intense. so sad yet so full of an unselfish love..you just have to read it!!!

June

Married Lady can you tell us a little about the book???Please??

My amazon order should arrive today, boy you people are killing me with all these books, amazon is happy however.

Just picked up the two books by Ferrol Sams today.....anxious to get reading and now have added K.Kingsbury to my list. While I was at the library, I noticed on the new book shelf a Christmas story by Joan Medlicott. I'll have to keep that one in mind for later.

Hello all! I'm a new author, not sure I'm on the right page here, but hoping to let you all know about my novel coming out next month. It is called THE RICHEST SEASON and it is three parallel journeys that take place on beautiful Pawleys Island, SC. Joanna is a lonely corporate wife who runs away from home after 25 years of marriage and more than a dozen moves; Grace, an elderly woman from NJ, has made the first selfish decision of her life, a decision which her family may never forgive; and Paul is a top executive adrift in the world after he's suddenly fired.All three find out that sometimes you have to leave your life to find yourself again. Please let me know if anyone has interest in buying my book. It will be available on Amazon.com next month. Here's hoping! Maryann McFadden

Maryann McFadden - Thanks for coming to Senior Net and telling us about your new book. Sounds like a good plot, and the fact that it takes place in S. Carolina, makes it all the more interesting to me. I've enjoyed every book I've ever read that's set in the Carolina's. I'll be sure to include it in my next Amazon order.

A very bitter young man becomes a bull rider to vent his anger.

A lovely young lady does the barrel thing with her horse, Ace, whom she raised.

Those two meet, become friends, but he wants more: he's fallen in love with her. She finally reveals to him her long kept secret: She has Cystic Fibrosis.

Enough for now, Judy ?

June

Best of luck, Maryann!!

June

Wow thanks Married Lady thats enough info for now, the book will have to go on my list.

Thanks so much for your interest in my novel. I am thrilled and can't wait for you to read it! The release date is Mid-May, but I will keep you posted. I too love anything about the south, especially the low country of South Carolina. Pawley's Island is my favorite beach and I wrote a lot of my scenes in this book while walking that beach. One of my friends says she loves a book that makes you feel like you're there, and she felt like she was on Pawley's Island. I hope you all do, too.

Maryann, I hope you have great success with your book. Since I live in South Carolina, near the coast, I am delighted that so many of you like books set in this area. I agree! My book club has selected "Sweetgrass" by Mary Alice Monroe as our book for May. Have any of you read it?

Judy, I agree wholeheartedly with your comments about Conway. I have lived here all of my life and think it delightful. My parents are buried at Lakeside Cemetery and at this time of the year, it is lovely, azaleas, dogwood, wisteria etc. are all blooming now.

My book group discussed "Beach HOuse" and we loved it and i have read Sweetgrass. I don't think i liked it as well as Beach House, but i read BH first, so maybe i had greater expectations for Sweetgrass because i liked BH so much. I didn't think she made the characters as interesting in SG as the ones in BH. I'll be interested to hear what your group thinks......jean

Jean, my book club will be discussing "Sweetgrass" on May 18th and I will try to remember to let you know the general concensus of the group. In the meantime, explain "does Conway have anything to do with w/Pat?" printed in dark print in your last comment. Just curious!

Since you are on the Carolina shore, i tho't maybe it was where his family was from, or it was a new place named for him. The P of T is one of my favorite books.....jean

No, Jean, Conway is not Pat's home. I seem to remember he might be from Beaufort, south of Charleston.

Found a very good read by accident on the Most Wanted Shelf at the Library....."The Wonder Spot" by Melissa Bank.......It was funny and sad at the same time......Well written short prose..... I couldn't put it down.......One of those where you want to see what happens next..............

The Wonder Spot.....Hi Nancy, Funny you should mention this book. Our library system has an online book review and that was the book reviewed last week. I haven't read it, but with your recommendation I just might now.

As I said a few days ago, I checked out two books by Ferrol Sams. After reading a few chapters in the first one, I think I'm giving up. The writing is good and interesting, but it seems more like reading someone's journal that a novel. I just don't feel like giving the time for it.

macou33.....I, like you don't read a book if it doesn't catch my interest in the first chapter or two.....This book by Melissa Bank was so good I am going to read her first novel now , " The Girl's Guide to Hunting and Fishing"....It got very, very, good reviews also.....Hope you enjoy "The Wonder Spot........I am starting Robert Ingrams book, "Keep The Home Fires Burning".......I am hooked....

Pat Conroy comes from the general Charleston area. He writes extensively about that area. Conway is about to the North Carolina border, so no way is there a tie. Conway is close to Myrtle Beach..

Actually the year we had our books at the beach Conroy lived on Fripp Island. We took Ann there to her cousin's house. I am sure he has more than one home.

Whats going on.. Tried to access SEnior Net and got a no page available.. had to go through tye general senior net to get through. Makes no sense.

The SeniorNet server had to be replaced yesterday and was down yesterday afternoon and evening. We are back now and there are still adjustmemts being made.

Still messed up this morning. Oh well. Makes me think about how to access it the hard way. Found a new used book store and got some older general fiction that I have been looking for. When I get a bit caught up, will start asking about Elizabeth Berg.. Am reading "The Art of Mending. I got it as an audio tape and it turned out to be flawed. Has a double echo, imposible to get more than tiny bits and pieces, so I got the book..

Stephanie, with the change over, you may need to set a new bookmark, if you are bookmarking an index or menu.Book marking a discussion will always take you to the same post/message.

I think you have found the similarity between Stanley Middleton and Anne Tyler, Stephanie. "... Anne Tyler for one does not really have a central plot ever. It is more of a small piece of someone's life." Another author who fits that description is Anne Rivers Siddons. I just finished "Up Island" which begins with the breakup of a marriage in Atlanta and ends up with the wife finding a 'new family' on Martha's Vineyard. Part of my enjoyment was the mention of towns and areas that have become familiar in Philip R. Craig's Vineyard mystery series.

You have sold me with the young lady who does barrel racing, June C.! I used to have a grey mare who had participated in gymkhana's and won several ribbons with her former owner. I have added Karen Kingsbury's "A Thousand Tomorrows" to my list.

"The Wonder Spot" and "The Girl's Guide to Hunting and Fishing" by Melissa Bank are in my library and on my list, Nancy L. Smith. They both sound interesting.

The summary of Elizabeth Berg's "The Art of Mending" sounds so familiar, Stephanie, but I have not checked it off my list. I will have to take a look at the book. I have read, "Talk Before Sleep" and liked it a lot.

I am now well into the new Medlicott book called A Cove Creek Christmas. It's a little out of season, but quick reading and good as all the other Ladies From Covington were. Sometimes I just need a quick and easy book to go between other longer and heavier things depending on what else I am doing in my life at the time. This and the Jeanne Ray books were just the ticket.

Another well written, funny and sad novel about a family..stepmother, bereaved mother etc........I read it in one day.......Don't want to tell you to much or it would ruin the book for you....." riveting and sharply rendered" one of the comments on the fly leaf.......The title is "Love and Other Impossible Pursuits" by Ayelet Waldman.......

Thats interesting Ayelet Waldman writes very funny mysteries, but this does not sound like it is one of them.. Will hve to check it out, since I do like her mysteries. Elizabeth Berg.. I liked the Mending and now have another of her books in my to read file..Also found a new site on the web that does paperback swaps.. Registered to see what it is like.

Ayelet Waldman.......yes...the same who wrote the mystery's.....I'll bet you will like her book......I think I have read all of Elizabeth Bergs books.............

CORRECTION Joan Medlicott book is A Covington Christmas.....NOT Cove Creek Christmas......can't trust my memory!!

I like Siddons also, I read "Up Island" and i especially liked "Nora, Nora." A friend like Tyler's "Amateur Marriage" (isn't every marriage an amateur marriage????) but i had a hard ti me getting into it and gave up half way thru.......jean

What is the website for a paperback swap? Always interested in book sites. Will probably stay with our own Book Exchange though.

Like your title I'm with you. don't appreciate Anne Tyler books. Do enjoy Luanne Rice books, though. Must read Prince of Tides and Wonder Spot.Not sure I haven't read p of t.

We've read so many books the past several years that I often forget which ones I've already read

June

web site...www.PaperBackSwap.com ...A bit different from our swap, but interesting. A lot different type of books.

Stephanie, re: your #7 regarding Eudora Welty-----Her home (Jackson, Ms) was open on the tour about 2 weeks ago. I do not know if it will be open all the time or not. We have quite a lot of Southern authors, James Lee Burke who writes about Lafayette, New Iberia, and New Orleans (mysteries), Grisham (MS), Rebecca Wells (Ya-Ya series), and others of note.I am in Louisiana and proud of our Southern heritage.

Joy

In reply to someone mentioning that the South does not have earthquakes-------That is certainly true, but we have our share of hurricanes and occasionally tornadoes. JOY

I love James Lee Burke. Violent indeed, but a long time favorite of mine. Have also read two of his daughters, even though she lives on the west coast.. To know there was a reall little girl named alafair is interesting to me.

Hi All

I have been just running through all different kinds of books. I finished Suzanne Brockmann'a Body Guard and that was very good I enjoy her books. Then in a mood for something different that I usually don't read I read Evanovich, Back to the Bedroom. Now that was funny, when I laugh outloud that's got to be funny. Nearly fell out of bed haha

I was looking forward to June and her new Stephanie Plum book, haven't heard about this one. She's good for our mental health making us laugh out loud. I have been disappointed in her non-plum books, so i'm glad to hear you say this one was hilarious, i'll look for it.....jean

Jean I think it may be a re-do

It says copywright 1989, 2005

First Harper printing August 2005

Hope this helps.

I've learned that when an already published author hits it big with a book, all their past books will soon be reprinted. Case in point Dan Brown's The DaVinci Code is the second book dealing with Robert Langdon. Angels & Demons came first.

Evanovich started out as a Romance Writer. Her try at mystery writing hit big time. Now anything she has written is being reprinted.

I love Stephanie Plum, liked the race car driver, but most of the others are just not my cup of tea. But they do love to reprint and I have noticed in the stores, that they are reprinting all of her early series stuff.

I love and hate June - i get to read Evanovich's new SP book BUT then i have wait a whoooooooole year for the next one - LOL .....jean

I like the way GinnyAnn has indicated AKA GinnyAnn. People are so confused about my name that i tho't it might help if i did the same.....jean

Here is one you do not want to miss....."Abide With Me" by Elizabeth Strout......just let me say a lot of house work went undone......She also wrote "Isabelle and Amy"

Nancy that sound's like a good one. I just finished a keeper Secent of Danger by Andrea Kane and I didn't figure it out til just before the end, very exciting book.

By changing your title, Mabel1015j, I assume you mean the line just under your name. If so, be sure your are logged into SeniorNet. Then go the the buttons below the last message on any page and click on Preferences. Under Personal Information, the second line reads: Second line of information (optional) and a box with the current second line. You can make the change there.

I finally read "The Hamilton Case" by Michelle de Kretser and am not sure how I feel about it. It is well written enough to keep me going to the end without stopping to read something else in the middle. I was able to follow the story line of the Ceylonese family with no difficulty, but am still puzzled about the effect that the Hamilton Case had on the life of the main character, Sam Obeysekere. It is explained in several different ways by several different people but never quite seemed to integrate into Obey's life. It is almost as if the Case lurked around the edges, never quite going away. Just as Obey tried to be an English gentleman but was always considered a native. Some of the descriptions were a bit on the gross side, with contradictions of jungle decay and clean ocean views. I would like to hear other opinions.

I don't often do back-to-back reviews!

I listened to "A Mixture of Frailties" by Robertson Davies. I didn't like it as well as some of his other works, but the premise was interesting. A Canadian will not receive his inheritance from his mother's estate until he and his wife have a son. In the meantime, all of the interest from the estate go to an artist, in this case a singer, for her education in Europe. After three years of study and the beginning of some renown,the money ends when the grandson is born and the singer's future rests on a decision that is not disclosed, leaving the reader dangling. I hate it when authors do that.

Perkie, Those authors I cross off , never to listen or read again. Finish what you started is my motto.

Are any of you familiar with the author Greg Iles?? I just read a book by him and it was called paranormal? It says Greg Iles is a versatile, mulitalented author who has a unique voice and never writes about the same thing twice. Sleep No More is a chilling paranormal thriller that will be put on this reviewer's keeper shelf.

Well it kept me on the edge of my seat, I didn't understand all of it and am not sure if I want to look up some of his other books or not.

I read one by Carley Phillips called Hot Number and I have another one here by her but you can bet I'm not reading that one.

A friend recommended this author to me quite some time ago, but I cannot remember if I read anything by him. Is he a Southern writer? That may be why she told me about him. JOY

That's right ----he is a Southern writer---lives in Natchez,MS, I think.I looked him up @ Barnes & Noble and at our local public library. Most of the reviews that I read said Turning Angel was great. JOY

Maybe I will try and find Turning Angel in my book store Joy this was one strange book but I did enjoy it.

I just finished a quick read by Sarah Shankman /alice storey her pen name set in the south. It's the family secrets and the coverups that make it interesting to me. her second book I guess. first was Kill all the Lawyers and this was "and then hang all the liars". set in the south for the most part. good characterisations and action. I really enjoyed it. 'will have to look up the first one and see if she's written anything else since this is old.

Yes, Shankman has written several books. Some I liked and some not so. I think for some reason she has also written under Alice Storey, but not sure why I think that.

Finished reading that a week ago. Just could not accept the romantic relationship between the psychiarist and the patient's twin. Will get Evanovich's Back to the Bedroom. Everyone needs a laugh once in awhile.

June

I have read only one Sarah Shankman, "I Still Miss My Man But My Aim Is Getting Better", because I found the title so intriguing. I didn't care for her style of writing and haven't tried any others, but how could I not try a book with the title "First Kill All the Lawyers". My ex is a lawyer!

Another book I picked up strictly for the title was "Summer of the Flamingos" by Sara Hylton. My old boss loved flamingos, and for his going-away party, we had flamingo lights, pink plates and napkins, flamingo beanie babies, etc. Anyway, the book is basically a romance, but not Gothic. It is also about an extremely dysfunctional family and the effect that had on the narrator. It reads smoothly and goes quickly, so I am not sorry I picked it up.

I love Sara Hylton books. I haven't heard of the Flamingo title. I will definitely look for it. I just finished "We Are All Welcome Here" by Elizabeth Berg. It's a very moving book about a mother's battle with Polio. At the same time, she is raising a young girl.

one of m favorite authors. read em all when they turn up at the library or the book exchange or the paper back used book store.

Winsum,

I love her too. I am glad to hear you like EB too.

Hello all, if you like Elizabeth Berg and you like books in South Carolina, I think you will like my new novel, THE RICHEST SEASON, which was just published. It's about: a lonely corporate wife who runs away; an elderly woman facing a devastating loss; and a top executive adrift in the world after he's fired. Set in Pawley's Island, it's a novel about second chances occurring at the most inopportune times in life. For Joanna, Paul & Grace, leaving the lives they always thought they wanted allows them to enter "the richest season" of their lives. I mentioned it earlier in May to the group, but now it is out! I am so excited because the reviews so far are wonderful! But I am a tiny fish in a vast ocean. So, if you'd like to read an excerpt, or learn more, please go to my website, www.maryannmcfadden.com. I have also had some compare it to Rosamunde Pilcher (The Shell Seekers). I would be happy to do a book chat with all of you, too. Thanks everyone for listening to my shameless plugging!!! Maryann McFadden

Hello Maryann....I'll be looking for your book at our library. It sounds like a good one. (I do not buy or collect fiction)

Presently reading a good one called Carriage Trade by Stephen Birmingham. He is a new author to me, but this book is from 1993. It puts me in mind of Jeffrey Archer's "As the Crow Flies", kind of a rags to riches with all that goes along with.

Macou33, I love Jeffrey Archer. I will write "Carriage Trade" by Stephen Birmingham on my list. I loved "As The Crow Flies.

"The Richest Season," I bet is good too.

I liked the exerpt. . . .it pulled me in right away but then I left my husband at age forty nine and had some of the same wonderings. do you think it will be available at the library? I read fiction and then turn it in if it's a paper back at the local exchange. Once in a while I keep some to share with others. Good job. I think this may be a keeper. . .Claire

If you request it from your library, they can get it from interlibrary loan if they don't have it. It's brand new, so they may not have it yet. But please ask, so they'll get it for you. It's a lovely story, 3 characters who grow so beautifully. And of course, there's the beach. I loved writing it. Maryann McFadden

Stephen Birmingham wrote somereally interesting books way back. Dont know if he is still alive or still writing now. But look up the old stuff. Good writer. I finished the latest Prey book. Lucas is as violent as ever, but so was the book..

Maryann McFadden - I'm looking forward to reading your book, "The Richest Season", as soon as I can find it. I can tell that I'm going to like it, just by your short review! My kind of story.

Right now I'm finishing up "Motherless Brooklyn", by Jonathan Lethem. This is an EXCELLENT book, and I'm wondering if any of you have read it or heard about it? One of those that caught my eye at Barnes & Noble, and I just took a chance and bought it. Definitely worth it!

I'm really looking forward to your comments after reading THE RICHEST SEASON. I feel like I've just given birth, although the book took 3 yrs, not 9 months. If you like it, I hope you'll spread the word because my "baby" needs all the help she can get. Thanks a million. Maryann McFadden maryannmcfadden.com

I read most of a novel that I picked up because it is set mostly in New Mexico, near Santa Fe, where we will be vacationing in June. It is "Juniper Tree Burning" by Goldberry Long. It is the story of a girl born to hippie parents living in an adobe with a huge crack in the roof where it joins the chimney built by her father. The title is the name given her by her parents. Her brother is Sunny Boy Blue. Juniper grows up unloved and later unable to accept love, angry, impetuous, driven. I read so much of it because it is well written and I quit because I couldn't take any more of her self-destructive behavior.

Perkie, Sounds like a neat book.. and a wonderful name.

I don't remember who mentioned Robert Inman but I wish to thank them again! I just finished "Home Fires Burning".....just my kind of book....many characters and themes......just loved it.......I am now reading Anne Tyler's new book, "Digging Across America" .......so far I am hooked............

I really enjoyed Digging Across America--i finished it tonight; i was sorry when it ended.

I was on a long car trip and listened (CD`s) to Anne Tyler`s Nora, Nora. I enjoyed that one too.

She is a good writer.

writen in the seventies by Nelson De Mille an exce;lent one day read. of course my eyes are falling out now. The UN still involved with the peace process between israel and Palestine

Just finished listening to Accordion Crimes by Annie Proulx.. Really did not like it.. but then I did not like Shipping News either. Need to cross her off my list of readables.

Winsum I need to see if I have that book. Nelson DeMille is one of my favorite authors.

I have been reading a lot lately, it is the only thing that takes my mind off Miss Martha.

I enjoyed Don't look now by Linda Lapel Miller, a great read and it took place in Cave Creek Arizona which is one of my favorite places in the world.

Also Forget Me Not by Marliss Melton. Great story about Navy Seals and memory loss kept me glued.

Last Darkest Fear by Harlan Coben. I don't know where I have been for years but I never heard of this author before. He is funny with a great main character called Myron. I loved this book. I saw a new one the other day and bought it immediatley and am nearly through with it.Its called The Innocent.

Judy,

I am glad to hear from you. You went through quite an experience.

google as always provides and here is the first page of the exerpt.

nice writing. . . a grabber to begin with

claire

Judy, You are in for a treat. Harlan Cobin has written a lot of books. A whole series on Myron, but also some stand alones that are great.

Many of you are wondering about what happened to Miss Martha. Ginny you in particular. Yes we have a huge fenced yard and I thought Miss Martha was out there she was last time I glanced. She had gone in the garage with my husband Don. He did not have the guard he built in the garage door in thinking he could keep an eye on her. Let me tell you you could not keep an eye on Martha. He glanced away, she ran and was hit by a car. I believe she was dead when he brought her in but in true Judy fashion I panicked had Billy on the phone and raced to the vet at the bottom of the hill where they did every procedure but she was gone.

The pain was unlike anything I had experienced before as I have never lost a pet or a person to anything but old age or as with Buddy cancer. We suffered and still continue. Don tells me he wakes up and sees Martha's eyes. Not good.

The consensus of opinion between family and friends was we get a new dog as soon as possible so a week late came Miss Emma. She is the sweetest dog and much different personality than Martha. Martha is greatly missed and Miss Emma is greatly loved. So we all continue on. We received flowers, plants and card for Martha it was amazing how many people she effected in such a short period of time.

Judy Laird
these pictures will allow you to meet Miss Emma.

Miss Emma is a delight for sure. I have had dogs my entire life and sometimes a particular dog will stay with you, no matter what. I lost Nancy ( in dog circles referred to as my heart dog) in 1978 and the pain still comes upon occasion. I just ride out the tears and know we loved one another for all of the time she had on earth. I believe in the rainbow bridge where she is young and healthy and waiting patiently for me to come for her.

I had dogs growing up. I feel one dog is missing. Each pet is special. They are always remembered. Each pet is so unique.

1.Buttons 2.Toe-Joe 3.Princess 4.Miss Polly 5.Duke 6.Tammy

I have my last dear old lab, Sissey, under my rose bush where I speak to her each morning.....I do for sure love my dogs more than some people....I make no apologies for that.....I have two sweet dogs now and usually have two at a time......love the pictures of Miss Emma and understand the grieving done for the lost pet........ I finished Anne Tyler's new book, "Digging to America".....Enjoyed it very much....a good quick read and thought provoking.......

Oh, I can't wait to read "Digging to America."

Hats, me to. I like Anne Tyler and the subject sounds interesting.

cutie pie of a dog - what kind of dog is Miss Emma

Hi Barbara Miss Emma is a shit tzu

well if I ever get to the point where I do not have to work [my hours are so erratic] so that I can take care of an animal for sure it will be a shit tzu that I will find - what a cutie... For now the wild deer that graze in my yard and the fawns who spend the night in my yard are my pets - I leave them water but no longer feed them... they keep coming though - this time of year my yard is the nursery while the adults go off and graze.

Uh...I think it's a shi tzu. You don't want to get caught by the language patrol!

Actually It's shih tzu. I have one, too!

They are so cute. 'look like toys but I've been told that the males are fussy, apt to nip. Of course we've been discussing females. . .

Scoots is right and I am not going to spell it again. That must have been a brain f--------. She is a doll she went to the vet today and checks out find except he thinks she is even younger than we were told so she is going to take some special care for the next couple of weeks. Going to get her some goat milk tommorow.

Went to the dentist today because I broke off a crown and he used to raise westie's and gave me a lot of helpful hints.

My house is torn to piece's as I am having me bedroom re-done. Its one huge screw up after another and both my son's are lucky they are leaving tommorow because I may have to kill them. All the wall paper is off and sealed now and tommorow they texture, paint on Friday and Saturday if all goes according to plan which so far it hasn't in fact everything that could go wrong has. Then next week tear out part of the entertainment center and have a big screen TV and media center installed. There is my trip to Montreal in a nut shell. Actually the bedroom is Mothers day from # 3 son so no cost there. I didn't even know that # 1 son would have to get involved, I thought just take off the paper and paint how big a deal could it be? Well I am finding out just how big a deal it is. I wish I had never started.

The males are not fussy- I have a male and he's as sweet as can be. You really can't make a huge generalization about any breed- each dog has it's own personality. Shih tzu are bred to be companions, and their temperament is docile. Should be anyhoo, if it's bred properly.

Sounds like you have a lot of your plate, Judy. A pup is tons of work. Hope it calms down soon for you.

Btw- Your Miss Emma looks just like my Colby.

There are 51 holds on Anne Tyler's new book, "Digging To America" , so I guess it will be awhile before I get my hands on it!

If we discuss "Grendel" by John Gardner will we need to re-read Beowulf, Malryn? I have only a hazy memory of Grendel as a violent creature.

Will definitely try "Don't look now" by Linda Lael Miller, Judy Laird. We visited Cave Creek, Arizona, some 20 years ago when it was just a dusty little town with old buildings in need of repair and dirt roads. We dubbed it Hard Times, because of its proximity to Carefree, and wished we had the money to buy some of the property, figuring the property values would soar. When we visited again a couple of years ago, we didn't recognize the place.

In searching the library catalog for books about Santa Fe, I came across a biography. Miriam Sagan is a poet and the book, "Searching For A Mustard Seed", is about her struggles with widowhood. They were both Jewish until her husband became a Zen priest, and his long periods away from the family to study at a Zen monastery had created quite a strain on the family. Then he developed cancer. It is short but extremely well written and is an engrossing story.

Another good book by Hilma Wolitzer......."Docter's Daughter.....below is a review for you...... Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly A keen observer of the drama inherent in family dynamics, Wolitzer (Ending; Hearts; etc.) returns after a 12-year hiatus with this novel about Alice Brill, a 51-year-old wife, mother, frustrated writer and "book doctor" who wakes one morning with a disturbing pressure behind her sternum. The daughter of a once renowned but now senile surgeon, Alice initially thinks her symptom might be a sign of breast cancer, which took her mother's life 30 years before. Or could it be psychological: a reaction to being downsized as senior editor at a book publisher? or a premonition that the recent squabbling with her husband, Everett, signals a point of no return in an often competitive marriage? Is it unfulfilled creative impulse? In her attempt to diagnose her symptom, Alice scours her childhood relationship with her then imperious father, her mother's poetry, Everett's motivations for harshly disciplining their youngest son, and her own unexpectedly erotic response to a talented new writer who comes to her for advice on his first novel. With her customary grace and perspicacity, Wolitzer reveals her characters' humanity as they alternately flirt with and shun the very truth they seek about themselves, until escalating complications force them to choose to grow or be left behind. (Feb. 28) Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Well, for a couple of reasons, I've just finished The Yearling. Man, talk about old fiction. I really enjoyed it.

Speaking of older fiction, I read "Wherever She Goes" by Richard Scowcroft, published in 1966. I never heard of him, but I found the book on the Free Shelf at the Library. I read them and put them back. It is nice to have a few around that don't have due dates! I did look Scowcroft up in the catalog and his two other titles are in the local history special collection, so must be about the San Francisco Bay Area.

"Wherever She Goes", on the other hand, is based in Madrid. Andy is the maverick of a small town family, the only one to ever move away. He is vegetating in a cheap hotel, recovering from the death of his wife, until his outgoing older sister visits while on a grand tour of Europe following the death of her elderly, rich husband. Good descriptions of the city, the Prado, and Andy's journey back to life.

Hilma Wolitzer: I remember reading "Hearts", way back in the 1980's, and absolutely LOVED it. Then I heard that Jane Fonda had purchased the movie rights to the book and was going to both produce and direct. But, as far as I know, it never happened? Wolitzer wrote a sequel to "Hearts", and I read it, but was disappointed. (Can't remember the name?) Sequels never live up to the original. I'm anxious to read "Doctor's Daughter", and hope to get ahold of it as soon as possible.

I finished "Motherless Brooklyn", by Jonathan Lethem. It's about four young men who were abandoned as kids, and grew up together in a Catholic boy's orphanage, in modern day Brooklyn. But the story does not dwell on their childhoods or unknown past. They are now in their 30's and are working together for a man who runs a 'would be', detective agency. The main character, and the one who narrates the story is afflicted with Tourette's Syndrome. So the dialogue is intersperced constantly with his uncontrollable Tourette's outbursts. Believe me, it's a different type of novel, but one that is well worth reading. It sure gives you an up close understanding of Tourette's, without being at all preachy or clinical about it. I just loved Lionel, the young man with the syndrome. The story is sometimes very funny, but is also hopelessly sad.

Marilyn that sounds like a good book. I read a book a while back about some boys in NY that lived by their wits on the streets during the early 1900's I think it was called The Boys of New York but not sure. It was a totally good book. I remember that the boys would go to the dump and catch lives rats and put them in a bag and sell them too bad I can't remember who they sold them to.

If you are anyplace this Memorial Day but Washington state consider yourself lucky. This is so bad its not just raining but its dumping has been for hours, flood warnings everywhere I really hate it. I just drove out to the oldest sons house to check it out and check the pool which has a cover, everything was allright but I went into all the rooms on the lower level just to make sure.

My remodeling is coming along slow. I am going to call #3 son tommorow and see if he can send in a crew of painters Tuesday morning , this one guy is not working out. I'll be dead before he finishes and now he tells me he can only come Wed but off and on because he has to go to the dentist. I am sure Randy doesn't know anything about this. He like all the others is gone but I will call him tommorow, he'll be mad because I am sure he thinks its done and that will be good because then he will get something going.

GRIPE GRIPE

Pacific Lutheran Univ. They stream great jazz and on Saturday and Sunday nights they play blues, do you know it? It's also a PBS and NPR station. Turn it on, maybe it will make your remodeling less stressful.....LOL.....I can see you now, dancing around w/ a hammer in one hand and a paint brush in the other.......music always makes life more fun ....jean

Well Jean we have never met but your picture of me is some what off. haha

I don't have a hammer or a paint brush in my hand. I haave a phone in my hand screeching at #1 #2 #3 #4 son, which ever one is at fault. I talked to Randy this morning and he was horrified as I knew he would be and I will have a crew here tommorow morning and it will be done tommorow. You know if I had a hammer or brush in my hand that would mean I would actually have to do some work, isn't that what kids are for??? hehe

I rarely listen to radio but that sounds like some cool stations. I have XM radio that came with me rig and I am really loving it. I knew nothing about it til I got my new Tahoe and it was installed in it, its wonderful.

This is the web site for a bookstore here in Redmond Wa and I think it is quite nice, I thought maybe some of you would like to check it out.

http://soulfood.booksense.com/NASApp/store/IndexJsp

Put the kids to work! If that's not possible, hired help works too. TeeHeeTeeHee.......jean

"Beast" by Peter Benchley has been sitting around on my 'unread' bookshelf for a long time and I finally got around to reading it. The most interesting parts were about the 100 foot Giant Squid, which is called The Monster and not identified until past the middle of the book. Apart from the death of people and destruction of boats, the main thrust of the book is the overfishing of the waters around Bermuda, the setting, which turns the Giant Squid into a people-eater because its normal food sources are gone. The book also illustrates the distructiveness of large fish traps. Not only do they catch and kill all sizes and types of fish, but if they are lost, they fall to the bottom and continue to kill fish who keep entering to eat the dead fish inside and become prey themselves. Not a pretty picture. The plot line was almost an afterthought.

Hi all - I have just returned from a fabulous volunteer experience in Brasil. Someone here several months ago recommended Snow Flower and the Secret Fan. I have to give this person a a huge thank you! Without a doubt this is one of the best books that I have ever read. Talk about a captivating story of 2 young Chinese girls and their lives. Well-written, indeed. Frankly the writing is far superior to Reading Lolita in Tehran which I am trying to plow through right now.

Snow Flower goes on my all-time favorite books list! I even brought the book back with me to share with my friends.

Kathy

Hi, just wondering if you got a copy of my book, THE RICHEST SEASON. I just had my book launch party and the feedback has been thrilling.It seems to appeal to everyone, in particular to older readers.And so far, no one wants it to end. I would love to get your take on it, Marilyne, since you like southern books. Maryann McFadden, www.maryannmcfadden.com PS. I'm a northerner, but I love the south, too.

Maryann McFadden - YES, over the weekend I ordered The Richest Season, from Amazon, and it should be here by tomorrow. I'm looking forward to reading it, and will definitely report back when I'm finished. I may email you if that's OK?

I ordered your book and it came yesterday. Haven't had a chance to read it yet, but will report back.

Mary in TX

Marilyne & redbud73086, I am so excited! I cant wait for your responses to the book. Yes, please e-mail me. Most thrilling of all is that I am scheduled to do a book signing down in SC, in the Pawley's Island area, so if any of you are down there, I'd love to say thanks in person. Maryann McFadden www.maryannmcfadden.com

Maryanne I am ordering your book today. I am a huge fan of the south and go there at every opportunity. Thanks

Judy, I love the south, too, particularly the low country. We have sat watch at loggerhead turtle nests and there's nothing more magical than sitting on a beach under the moonlight on a summer night, with a sky full of stars. That is heaven. Writing the book brought that all back for me. I've had comparisons to Pat Conroy and Anne Rivers Siddons, and I can't tell you what a compliment that was! You ladies are the best! Thanks for supporting a new author. Maryann McFadden www.maryannmcfadden.com

Maryann I do not know if you are aware of it but our senior net book club stayed a week on The Isle of Palms and we loved it. I think there were 16 of us. We had Mary Alice Monroe as our author guest and she gave us much information on the logger head turtles. She is of the group that sits out on the beach at night to protect the turtles, I believe we are all devoted fans. No one is a more devoted fan of the south than myself. I spent 4 weeks at Christmas time in the Savannah area for the second time in one year.

I keep saying I am going to move from this Seattle area but have been told that I had better go there in the summer before I move. Probably not a bad idea.

Kathy, How interesting that you mentioned Snow Flower and the Secret Fan. My FTF book group is reading that book currently. I started it this evening and couldn`t put it down. I had never even heard of it until recently. I can`t believe how they bound those little girls` feet....... I know it will be a good discussion too.

Did you enjoy Brazil? I was down there several times too--my daughter lived in Brasilia for three years. I spent an entire summer down there. It was very interesting. We did a lot of traveling around S. A. too.

Hi Twistymaisie - Snow Flower is the ultimate book club book. I am glad that you are hooked on it. Isn't it interesting?

Yes, I did enjoy Brasil. This was my 2nd visit to the same site. I was in a rural area in the interior of the state of Sao Paulo. I love the people. What was your daughter doing? How special that you got to spend some quality time in Brasil and in SA.

Kathy

Judy Laird, I've been to SC in August and it's hot, but no worse than a bad Jersey heat wave. I would move there in a heartbeat if I could! Your trip to Isle Of Palms must have been wonderful. I sat turtle watches for loggerhead hatchlings several times, but never saw a nest hatch, unfortunately. Maryann McFadden www.maryannmcfadden.com

Kathy, you've certainly piqued my interest . Who wrote it? Will want to read it also.

I'm in The Wind Chill Factor by Thomas Gifford. Not so great but interesting since it takes place in Minnesota during the winter. It's his first novel.

June

June - the author of Snow Flower is Lisa See.

Kathy

Thank you, Kathy, that will become my next read!

June

Are there any Rosamunde Pilcher fans here? I've been gorging myself on her books, Shell Seekers, Coming Home, September, and Winter Solstice. Also, Barbara Delinsky's Coast Road was a great read. It takes place in Big Sur, with Carmel and Monterey also figuring large. The principal character is a woman who is in a coma; her best friend is a breast cancer survivor. quite an engaging read.

I've read only Shell Seekers and read something that made me think that the others may be sequels, is that true? I liked Delinsky's Vineyard better than the Coast Road, but i enjoyed it too. I might have liked Vineyard because it was the first of hers that i read. Do any you find it true that sometimes you like the first book of an author better the the succeeding ones you read? Guess our expectations are higher for the succeeding ones?......jean

Maryann McFadden - Congratulations on your first book, "The Richest Season"! Good job! I finished it this morning, and I plan to write you an email about it later today.

Rosamunde Pilcher is one of my all time favorite authors. I used to want to write in her style because I enjoyed it so much. Jean I don't think she wrote sequels to her books. You may be thinking of Maeve Binchy.

Barbara Delinsky's UPLIFT: Secrets from the Sisterhood of Breast Cancer Survivors is a great Handbook of tips from survivors. I own a copy and remember reading it during my BC treatments.

First, thanks Marilyne for your beautiful feedback on THE RICHEST SEASON. I'm so glad you liked it. And for all you Rosamunde Pilcher fans out there, what a coincidence! Several readers have compared this book to her SHELL SEEKERS! So you might want to give THE RICHEST SEASON a try. You can read an excerpt at therichestseason.com or maryannmcfadden.com If you like books that take place at the beach, I think you'll like this. Maryann McFadden www.maryannmcfadden.com

is currently my favorite historical fiction writer. I'm just ito THE FAVORED CHILD which is enormous. have read three others beginning with THE OTHER BOLYEN GIRL, AND THE QUEEN'S FOOL. She's a lovely writer and her characters live. . . Claire

Claire I have had an interest in the Elizabethan Renaissance for quite some time. One of the pages of my home page contains a list of authors with some of their books. It is a bit out of date but has authors you may be interested in reading.

Elizabethan Fiction

I am so excited. I recieved my copy of the Richest Season today and it looks wonderful. I intend to start it just as soon as I finish what I am currently reading. I had better get to it as I ordered some of the books that have been mentioned here earlier just yesterday. Some Coben and Five Smooth Stones and I forget what else. Isn't it fun when they come??

by Kurt Vonnegut . . .I think it's supposed to be a mystery in the end but with him you never know. . .so far very very . . . .amusing

Judy Laird, I am in Cape Cod and just logged in to see you've gotten my book! I am so excited, too. I love to hear what readers think and as an unknown author, I hope if you like it you will spread the word far and wide! Maryann McFadden, www.maryannmcfadden.com

Judy Laird, Isn't Five Smooth Stones an oldie? I loved that book, read it years ago. Maryann Mcfadden, www.maryannmcfadden.com

Five Smooth Stones.. Wasnt it by somebody Fairbarn? I know I read it, but it was a long long time ago.

Is it "Anne?"

Maryanne your book is terrific I didn't finish the book I was reading which is a no no in my house. I started your book and read far into the night, its a wonderful book. I was wondering how many people besides myself would just get in the car and take off. Its a wonderful story and I love Grace. I believe you are the kind of author we need to have to come to one of our books gatherings.

Now Five Smooth stones is by Ann Fairbairn. I have no idea what it is about but on some folder they were talking about it and loved it. I went to my book store and couldn't find it but found one by her called That Man Cartwright, I am enjoying it. I wonder why when books are really well written they take longer to read??? Is it just because I am so dumb haha

How many of us have finished Maryanne's book???

Yes, Five Smooth Stones was loaned to me for a read by a co worker in the late '60s. It WAS a good story. Another of the same era, but a different type subject was The Sand Pebbles. Recently the movie was on American Movie Classics and I was reminded.

I have just finished the first of a trilogy by Nora Roberts, set in Memphis, TN and centered around a Garden Center run and staffed by the characters, called the In The Garden Trilogy. For me these are just a BIT happy ever after novels, but good light people stories with just a little ghost story entwined. More books passed on by my darling daughter.

Nora Roberts is a favorite author. Haven't read her Garden Trilogy yet. I like to read her when I don't want something heavy.

I like Nora Roberts too. Some of her bigger books like Northern Lights and Birthright, The Reef are pretty suspenseful.

I like Nora's J.D. Robb persona, and way back, I liked an Irish one called, Born in Fire, Born in Ice and forgot the last one, but it was Born in? I would like her more if some of her heroines, etc, were ordinary,, not pretty, not the best. Ann Fairbarn wrote a few things and I remember reading each and every one. Was a big fan.. Also there was an author Arona McHugh. She wrote two books on the same people many many years ago. It was from the 60's. They lived in Boston and they were so interesting. Our generation and their problems. I still have them, but they are probably out of print.

Good point about being perfect.

Any comments here on The Poisonwood Bible?? Read it a while back...should say got through it. Lots of different comments from friends who also read it.

I have read "The Poisonwood Bible." I liked how Barbara Kingsolver made each daughter in the family so unique. I could feel the sorrow of the mother at the death of one daughter. I think she prepared her daughter for burial. That takes a lot of strength. It's been awhile since I read the book.

macou33and Hats: I love to comment on "The Poisonwood Bible" - always on my list of Top Ten favorite novels of all time. I've read it at least four times over the years. Whenever there's nothing around here to read that peaks my interest, I get out my worn copy of "Poisonwood" and enjoy it all over again.

Well this is Not a New author however, I am curious has anyone read Utopia by Sir Thomas More later Saint More, killed by the order of Henry the VIII - if you have read it could you fill me in - is it a difficult read - some of the early author's way of phrasing things and word choices make reading a challenge - also the ideas that are in the book - are they important enough that they would enlighten us to what we mean today when we refer to a Utopian world?

Barbara,I have heard of "Utopia." Could you lead a discussion on it? That would help us understand it. Could you give a brief description of the book too?

Marilyne, you make me want to reread "The Poisonwood Bible."

Barbara,How difficult is "Utopia?" Would you tell us more about it? I would like to read "1984" and/or "Brave New World."

Macou, I couldn't agree more with Marilyne - I've read the Poisonwood Bible at least 3 times, I just LOVE that book. ~JudyS (on the way to try to catch up on our Don Quioxite discussion)

Hats, I have never read Utopia - but I am curious - the bit I read about it is on Amazon. com - let me get the link and see what you think - hats it would take at least 3 additional readers interested to get a conversation going - and so with you it would only make 2 - however, lets see if there is anyone who has read it who can give us some feedback and in the meantime if you are like me and curious if you know of anyone else who may like to read it would you email them - I am going to hold off a bit before I put anything out there but I could easily do it in September -

here is the link to Utopia

Barnes and Noble show a page of different publications for Utopia B&N

August would be a push because I may go out of town for the first week of August - we could start the week the children are back to school though - but September to me would be a safer month. - but let's see first if there are others who are curious about this book.

Hi Barbara,

Thanks for the links. I had forgotten. In September there is Poe's Shadow. I think that is going to be rather involved. The author, Matthew Pearl, is going to be here too. I would like to give most of my time to that discussion.

Besides, I looked inside the book "Utopia." I think "Utopia" is too difficult for me. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and bookie hospitality. Probably someone else here is interested.

but if you breathe as you read . . . forget it. one sentence takes up six lines of type. . . utopia. . . it swings along though almost poetic. It makes me smile. .

Utopia exerpt

I imagine it's available to read on line. I would hope so in that I need to blow it up for these eyes to take it in. claire

WinsumI am going to relax and breathe and read it again. Here goes. Well, the first page is easy to read. I might have been frightened. I am going to read the reviews too. I didn't do that yet.

You are so right Winsom it is on the internet - here is one version - Utopia

Book one I copied and pasted on Word to see how many pages - 26 pages - where as Book 2 and the other chapters are all either 1, 2 or 3 pages long. And it is wordy - the slow boat to figuring out what Sir Thomas More is trying to say... Hats, it reminds me of the slow seeing that our poet Pablo Neruda shared in the poem Anna copied today...

a license for a large slow-moving eye,
the inscription on the nails of the almond tree

Book one of Utopia seems to be laying out the times which must be then used as the counter to what this traveler from Antwerp is sharing about the Utopia he found and is then described in all the subsequent chapters.

hmmm this sounds interesting - this is what MonkeyNotes says about the book

"Protagonist: Utopia elucidates a thesis about ideal socia l conditions and therefore lacks a plot. Also, characters are not important, although one could make an argument that Raphael Hythloday is the protagonist. A learned mariner, he has accompanied Amerigo Vespucci, the Pilot Major, on his voyages. In the fourth and last voyage, Hythloday and a few of his companions, set out on adventures of their own. In the course of their wanderings, the party came upon Utopia, an ideal state, and spent some time there.

By the time the readers meet him, Hythloday is fairly old ("well stricken in years" as More describes him). Physically, he is a salty mariner whom one would have come across on any day in Bristol or Cadiz or Antwerp during the latter part of the sixteenth century. But Hythloday is different from these typical mariners as he has seen ideal conditions exist in Utopia and would like to impose that life on Europeans. Hythloday is a Renaissance voyager -- knowledgeable, well read, observant, objective. He genuinely believes that Utopia conditions should be established elsewhere in the world.

Hythloday is totally objective and his account is free from the instruction and preaching that are often the undoing of Utopia tales. But he is also a disillusioned man, he has seen perfection exist, yet he cannot convince the world that such a place exists. For the most part, Hythloday is used as a figure or device that spearheads the discussion among the three men of what makes an ideal society. He can be seen as the mouthpiece of the author who may have held similar views as Hythloday but feared repercussions if he were to make such exhortations about English society himself.

Antogonist There is no antagonist. Utopia is a forum of discussion for creating an ideal state and does not have any drama or development of plot. Climax: The same holds true for climax, also. Utopia is an exposition of ideas rather than a narrative and therefore does not have a climax.

Outcome: The ending of the book is bittersweet. After his long treatise about the ideal social conditions in Utopia, Hythloday wants to impose the same conditions in Europe, but he cannot convince his hearers to accept his beliefs. His final diatribe against pride as "the mother of mischief" is the voice of a disillusioned man. He is happy that at least one country -- Utopia -- has achieved perfection. The note ends on a note of hope, but with a suspicion that this hope may be mislaid."

Sounds like reading this could lead to a conversation of what we think would be the ideal country - or what parts of societies, as we know them, we find are ideal. hmmmm this may be interesting - could we get past the "slow-moving eye" read though...

Barbara,You know how much I am enjoying Pablo Neruda. Already, I have gotten one surprise. "Utopia" means "No place." I thought it mean a place of total well being and happiness.

That is very interesting reading. I just am not ready to commit yet. I don't want to make promises.

I'm with you Hats I thought utopia was a beautiful place kind of like heaven. You guys are way over my head.

Marilyne and Redbud did you finish The Richest Season by Maryann McFadden? I finished last night and I loved the book. You have it all there middle aged woman doing something she has dreamed of and an old woman at the end of her life, great reading. There was a great deal about the Loggerhead turtles and sitting the night watch absolutely fascinating. It made me want to go back to the beach. How about another beach gathering with Maryann, MaryAlice, Anne Rivers Siddon and Pat Conroy now there would be a group. Hi Maryann!!!!!!!!! BTW Maryanne how did you come to pick the topic of the turtles in your book??

Judy and Maryann, life has gotten in the way and I haven't had a chance to get to book yet Hope things will calm down by the weekend, so I can read it.

Mary

Utopia
This discussion reminded me of a book I started long ago, but didn't finish. I've intended to get it from the library and pick up where I left off. It was called A Creed for the Third Millenium by Colleen McCullough. Sort of a sci fi about a time when population growth would be strickly enforced , the N.E. of the country would be almost uninhabitable because of energy and resource shortage and the government would control a lottery system for persons allowed to move to the sunbelt states. I read part of this book about 20 years ago and since then have seen and heard things that point to the fact that it might not be so far out. Not exactly Utopia but interesting thoughts.

Judy Laird - I'm glad that you also enjoyed, The Richest Season. I felt that Maryann did a great job, her first time out! I left her a short message of congratualations in this discussion, and then emailed her about the story and about the different characters. Right now my daughter-in-law is reading the book, and when she finishes it, I plan to pass it along to someone else.

A new Curious Minds discussion has started. It is about antiques and classics and, if you would care to join in, please use the link below

ANTIQUES

Bill H

Julia Glass, author of "The Three Junes" which I liked very, very , much latest novel, "The Whole World Over" is a good long read filled with many interesting characters.....and something of course I love it is filled with food talk as the central character is a pastry chef! Following is a review....................... The many readers who embraced Glass' National Book Award-winning debut, three Junes (2002), will be pleased to learn that one of the novel's central characters, New York city bookstore owner Fenno McLeod, plays a role in her follow-up. In the same neighborhood as Fenno's store, Greenie Duquette, a young wife and mother, labors over her rich pastries, which, thanks to her friend Walter, catch the notice of New Mexico governor Ray McCrae. Ray offers Greenie the chance to be his personal chef, so she and her young son, George, head to New Mexico, leaving behind her therapist husband, Alan, with a dwindling practice. Alan befriends Saga, a young woman whose sense of purpose in life was taken away when an accident affected her appearance and memory. Meanwhile, Walter is embroiled in an affair with a man who recently separated from his lover but might not be so ready to move on. As the characters grapple with change and uncertainty in their lives, Glass gracefully builds up to the traumatic event that will affect them all, deftly exploring the sacrifices, compromises, and leaps of faith that accompany love. Kristine Huntley Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

I'm trying to remember the name of a book I read a number of years ago - I thought it was by Anne Tyler - or maybe Anne Rivers Siddons. It was about an elderly women living alone in a house in need of repairs. I believe she has 2 or 3 sons. She hires a young woman to do odd jobs (garden work, carpentry, etc) I think it might take place in Baltimore. I know this isn't much to go on but perhaps one of you folks will recognize it. I've searched the net with no luck. Sound familiar?? Niecie

Niecie... I'm an Anne Tyler fan from way back. It sounds as if you are describing one of her first novels...the Clock Winder. I thought the woman who hired the other to do the odd jobs was younger, rather than elderly. Maybe it's a different story. Check it out. Hope this helps.

Joan - thank you, thank you. It is the Clock Winder. I don't know why I started thinking about it but it's just been on my mind and I could not think of the name. I'm going to the library tomorrow (darn, they're not open on Sunday) so I'll have to wait till Monday and see if they have it so I can read it again. I wonder why I thought about after so many years. Wish I had as good a memory as you do. Niecie

Amazing. I thought I had read all of Anne Tyler, but dont remember that one. Will check it out on Amazon.

That title was a surprise to me. I think that Accidental Tourist was the first one for me.

Does anyone here enjoy Alice Hoffman as much as I do? I really like her books.

JoanP< I love Anne Tyler too. I haven't read "The Clock Winder." Since I am not Niecie, I don't know whether to answer your question or invitation.

Niecie, I am glad you caused us to bring up Anne Tyler's name and you introduced me to a new book title. Thank you.

I found that The Clock Winder is available in one of our local libraries and that it was published again in 1997. Originally it came out in 1972.

I love Alice Hoffman. One of my favorites is HERE ON EARTH, which is like a modern day WUTHERING HEIGHTS. A bit dark, but delicious. Anyone else read it? I love the bit of magic or mysticism in a lot of her books. There's a scene in my novel, THE RICHEST SEASON, where I dove in and used a bit of that. Nearly cut the scene out, but then decided: I like it! Seems the readers do, too. Has anyone read a book called THE WHITE ROSE? That was one of my very favorites last year. Maryann McFadden

I like the sounmd of Clock Winder. Put me down in the Aye column. I just bought my first Anne Tyler, The Amateur Marriage, also bought Three Junes (Julia Glass) and The Intelligencer Leslie Silbert); this last is a QE I story about Kit Marlowe, a spy for the Queen, and a modern day search for history's secrets by a PI who had almost completed her PhD but threw it all over to become a PI for a CIA-like agency. Has anyone read any of these?

The idea of the Clock Winder sounds fun,,, if we can find the book. I do like Anne Tyler and grew up close enough to Baltimore to like her takes on the city. Alice Hoffman.. I think I have read them all. I like her very much.

I loved "Amateur Marriage" by Anne Tyler. I don't think AT can write a bad book. I am anxious to read her new book too.

Joan - my library has a copy of the Clock Winder and I plan to get it later this week. I've never joined in a book discussion before but I'll jump in for this one. Hats, I too loved Amateur Marriage but I recommended it to a friend who found it just so-so. I'm just starting Digging to America. I'm so lucky - the library is right next door to my apt building and if they don't have a book I want they can usually get it from another library in the county. Can't beat that! Niecie

Niecie I would love living that close to a library. You have a piece of heaven next door to you. Please tell us what you think of "Digging to America."

Well, the last comment made me very upset. I felt like shaking the woman. In my view, Anne Tyler writes with humour while giving a clear view of human nature. The title "The Clock Winder" tells me to look for a double entendre (I hope that's the right word to use).

Anyway, if you can't get it yourself the publisher gives Anne Tyler's message to you.

FROM THE PUBLISHER Mrs. Pamela Evans lives a lonely new widowhood outside of Baltimore, with only a house full of ticking clocks for company. Then she hires eccentric Elizabeth Abbott as a handyman and both discover that parts don't have to be a perfect match to work.

"Parts don't have to be a perfect match to work," is the message in most of Anne Tyler's books, I think. This is what makes her books "tick." She knows what makes people "tick." Well, I am getting carried away with the "ticking and clock" metaphor. I better stop while ahead.

The two people in the book, The Clock Winder, are particularly different. In some way, they will find something in common. The widow's life will become renewed. The other woman will find a new path in her life too. That is my take on the book I haven't read but now can't wait to read.

MrsSherlock I have to find the title of a book about Phillip Marlow that you may be interested in reading.

Here is a list of some of the historical mysteries I have read.

The Shining Edge of Death: Who Killed Christopher Marlowe? By Judith Cook

To Shield The Queen: A Mystery at Queen Elizabeth's Court featuring Ursula Blanchard by Fiona Buckley

The Triumph of Evil by Karen Harper (Elizabeth solves the crime)

A Shrine of Murders: Being the First of the Canterbury Tales by C. L. S. Stone Mystery of Kathryn Swenbrooke, Leech & Physician

Hi Maryann and welcome.

The book about the Wild Rose sounds good can you tell me the author's name?? As you know I loved The Richest Season I sure envy you getting to go to Pauley's Island this week.

You told mew you read Five Smooth Stone's a long time ago can you remember what the story was??

I received a book today from an author Ann Bauer, the Title is A WILD RIDE UP THE CUPBOARDS. I hope too start it tonight. " Edward is nearly four years old when he begin's his slow painful withdrawal from this world. For those who love him-his father Jack his pregnant mother, Rachael; his younger brother, Matt-the transformation of this happy, firstborn into a sleepless, feral stranger is a devastating blow, one that will send shock waves through every nook and cranny of family life."

This book has many good reviews. "this is a phenomenal first novel, a story of mother love...told with delicacy and humor" Garrison Keeler.

Yes I believe so

Judy, sounds like a fascinating book. I love books about children with that sort of problems. Autism is a strange strange problem Went to Barnes and Nobel with a coupon today.. Got the Matthew Pearl for the September discussion, but also found a reprint of the ClockWinder, so bought that one as well as a book called something like.."The Hot Flash Club" which is appropriate for me since at 68, those things have been coming and going for 20 years now and I am sick of them.. Found two audio tapes on sale.. got a book on moving for my 10 year old granddaughter who is moving in two weeks.. Then my husband prowled the hardbacks on sale and got four for 5.98 each.. He was thrilled.. Oh well, we always go wild in bookstores.

they're almost gone and I've got ten years on you. my doc says we go on making estrogen forever and as we slowly stop the body does it's hotflash routine. . .have fun.

Claire,, Cant be too soon, I do hate the never knowing what temperature it really is.

Hi Judy, The book The White Rose is by Jennifer Hanf Korelitz (Hope I spelled it right). Clever, great characters, twists and turns, very well written. A favorite of mine last year. I remember Five Smooth Stones from the seventies, I think, about an interracial relationships. And a book I thought would become a classic it is so good. I leave for Pawley's Island on Saturday and I'm doing signings for The Richest Season there and in Georgetown. This is going to be surreal for me. I am already getting great buzz down there with the booksellers, who predict it'll be a "local winner." Let's hope they're right. I'm hoping to hook up with some book clubs there, too. I'll be thinking of you and raising a glass in a toast to you lovely people here at seniornet who've taken me into the fold. Thanks everyone ! Maryann McFadden

Maryann McFadden I wish you great success.

Three Junes by Julia Glass is a very satisfying read. I believe it was redcommended here. Thank you.

"Snow Flower And The Secret Fan by Lisa See is a must read book. I have read a few fiction books with China as the setting. Lisa See's book tops all of the other books.

"Snow Flower and the Secret Fan" was an excelllent book, Hats, with wonderful background information about one small group of Chinese people. I know so little of China's history that I'm not sure just how this group -- the Yaos -- fit into the overall picture. At times it was difficult to read because there was so much pain and hurt involved. When on thinks about what the women had to endure.

Five titles, five countries, and three contininents so far, among the nominations at Read Around the World. Nominations are open to all who are interested, through Wednesday, June 28.

The Hamilton Case by Michelle de Kretser -- set in colonial Ceylon, just before it became Sri Lanka
The Map of Love by Ahdaf Souief -- about two Western women, one at the beginning of the 20th century and one at the end, who find themselves in love with men who have strong ties to Egypt.
Four Letters of Love by Niall Williams -- a first novel about Irish life that merges the tragedies and loves of two families.
Cry, the Beloved Country by Alan Paton -- South Africa in the early days of apartheid.
Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie -- set in Nigeria, depicting a country and a family in the midst of turmoil

Pedln, it is a very sad story.

Sandra Dallas' Buster Midnight's Cafe is an engrossing read about small town kids forming alliances that see them throubh their lives as fate takes them to: Divinity School, WWI North Africa, Hollywood. boxing recognition. They are named: Pink, Chick, Pig Face, Buster, Anna May, Whippy Bird, Effa Commander. It's hard to puit it down.

remind me of a book I have, probably my dad's called IN THE CASTLE OF MY SKIN with some of the same kind of names in it and the theme is how the kids in north africa, I think, get together. . .I haven't read the whole thing yet. the language is beautiful and distracting. . .some of it downright poetic. the author? I'd have to go get the book and look. . . claire

I love Sandra Dallas. I would love to read all of her books. I have read "The Persian Pickle Club" by Sandra Dallas. It involves the friendship between women and a murder mystery. Mrs. Sherlock I have "Buster's Midnight Cafe" on my reading list.

Claire,I like the title of that book. It does have a poetic sound, "In The Castle of My Skin."

I am reading "Things Fall Apart" by Achebe. It is wonderful. I don't know what took me so long to read it. Some parts will bring tears to your eyes. Other parts of the book just make me think. I can't imagine being one of three wives. It must take an open spirit to share one husband. In "Snow Flower and the Secret Fan there are concubines. It's fun and interesting to learn about different customs.

in an ordinary suburb with each wife having her own house. the husband visited them in their own space. I forget how it worked out.

in the castle is about black kids in south africa. Ithink I said north. . .and I'm not even sure of that by now. the descriptive passages are pure poetry.

Have been reading like crazy and have taken so many of you suggestions I am now drowning in books.

I enjoyed A Wild Ride Up The Cupboards by Ann Bauer very much. I wanted to read it before I recommended it and its very good. I know nothing about autisium but when I see those children I always think God Bless those Moms, I can't even imagine how they do it. If you go to Ann Alden's site about new authors and go to post 309 she will send you a copy of tier book. This is especially for you Sue.

I have waiting to be read and you will see how your suggestions help. South Carolina by Lehman, Motherless Brooklyn,The Devil Wears Prada, Pawley's Island by D.B. Frank Tell No one by Coben and I have kind of started but can't read at night Mountains by Mountains, lots of big words for me. Am reading Luanne Rice Summer of Roses.

Just finished Blaze my Joann Ross which I loved and was in the Low Country. Also Linda Lael Miller The Last Chance Cafe. WOW I have having serious trouble with my shoulder and took a bad fall yesterday right of course on my shoulder, hip, and side of my leg.

The Golden Years my A-----

What are you all doing with your lives and what are you reading??

Judy, I am very sorry to hear about your fall. I hope the pain and bruises disappear quickly. Did you need to go to the doctor or the emergency room?

I love Luanne Rice. I haven't read "Summer of Roses" yet. I loved "Silver Bells" by Luanne Rice and Cloud Nine.

still here although complicated by the slow breaking down of capacities and the logistics involved with dealing with them. Now the book I'm reading is very small and it's still unfinished because I've been busy making computer art and chatting with people on line. .the garden discussion here is full of beautiful pictures. the computer art discussion is my home base since I'm supposed to be co hosting it with emma. I'm just not reading very much now but am keeping a file on anything that looks interesting. so . .that's my life.. .claire

No Hats I didn't go to the emergency room just got up and said stupid a---- and went to work. Today its much more painful but that is to be expected. Gave up the dr ordered massage as it is not helping.

Nice to hear from you Claire. I need to go over to the computer art site I would love to do some of that. I can't even put my picture's on the photo site without help.

I love your dealing with by the slow breaking down of capacities and the logistics involved with dealing with them. I am not sure what that means but I think its probably what a great many of us are doing at this time in our lives. I know I'm breaking down all over the place but its not so slow. hehe

thanks to someone recomending it on SN. Am now reading The Beekeeper's Apprentice, also rec'd here. .....love you all for your great recommendations.

Judy - agree whole heartedly on your comment re: golden years .....jean

Claire, I would love to learn Computer Art. I am going to try and find my way to that folder today. Sometimes I get lost in these folders.

I haven't read "Blue Moon." I will write it down.

I like Luann Rice.She has a certain sweetness in her writing. A change from some of the authors I read. Oh Judy, becareful.. Seems more and more that falls will reallyhurt us as we grow older..We went and retrieved our motorcoach today. Our younger son has been using it as a place to live since his job transfer, but they are closing on their new place tomorrow and moving in. He will stay with his older brother until then. They are all excited about the move. Just finished reading.."Hot Flash Club" by Nancy Thayer. Not a thinker kind of book, but I loved it.. Makes me reassured that others have the same sort of discussions with themselves, that I do.

some of those most rewarding conversations I have are with myself. . .a kind of intellectual masterbation? ah well, we do what we can. . .Claire

Nancy Thayer writes fairly light books that are relevant to women.. Not romance, but more like life transitions of various types. As you can imagine the Hot Flash Club strikes home, although she is speaking of women in their late 50's, early 60's.. Still I like the discussions in the book about making peace with your body type, etc. I have so many problems with how to not worry quite so much about gaining some weight as I get older. Not huge, but not thin any more either.

and now it's a major health hazard. I have a list as long as both arms of physical problems which have accompanied that. just dumped five lbs of water with a diuretic which makes me sick so I avoid it, but the heart etc etc. etc. I'm 78 oh to be fifty or sixty again. . .Claire

78 is old? I thought you weren't old until 95 or 100.

"Inside every older person is a younger person -- wondering what the H___ happened."

until this shell I inhabit began to fall apart. I could use a new one about now. . .claire

It is the shell falling to pieces with me too. I've had to replace both shoulders and a hip. Just waiting for the other hip to fall apart.

In all the time I've known you . . .years now I never knew what you were doing. I just visited your home page and I love the wood stuff. I love wood itself and it's great what you can do with it. . . claire

Claire and Pat I enjoy not only talking about books but seeing how we are all doing and how we are coping. At our age I believe everyone is coping.

Back to my Luanne Rice and then on to The Devil Wears Prada.

Have a great day

Pat how do you make your posts bold??

Judy -- use bold tags around the words you want bold.

Example: <B>text you want bold </B>

Makes this: text you want bold

I just finished Marley and Me by John Grogan and sniffed and cried thru the last few chapters.

It was a great book and he is an awsome writer. We are and have always been dog lovers and had one (lab/shephard mix) who reminded me of Marley Sunny was also expelled from obedience school, ate everything under the sun including the black plastic bumper guard off the car when she was locked in the garage one time

Mary

Our Max looks a lot like Marley. He is a 20 month old yellow lab. They can stay in puppyhood until they are 3 years old. I have started Marley and Me and need to finish it so I can get it back to the library.

I loved that book and could hardly finish it for crying my eyes out!

No wonder it's been on the NYT bestseller list for so many weeks. It's such a good story - written with lots of humor and love. If you've ever loved any dog, you're going to enjoy this book, but especially if you've ever had a Labrador Retriever. Grogan really captured the essence of the Lab personality.

We lived on a section line road in the country and a purebred (we were told) black lab was dumped in front of our house. We adopted him and he was a great dog. Our vet said he was about two years old and was over the "puppy" stage.

Mary

He was such a good dog, wonderful watch dog; barked at everyone walking down the street, but loved anyone who was in the house. Of course, everyone in town tho't he MIGHT be a dangerous dog, which was wonderful security. Only our friends and acquintances knew he was a loving, cuddly softy - especially if you might have a biscuit for him.I think I'll have to wait awhile to read Marley.........jean

{{{{{{{jean}}}}}}} Losing a pet is the same as losing a human member of your family, because they are family.

Thanks ginnyann......jean

Mabel.....my sweet old black lab, "Sissey" is buried out under my rose bush......I speak to her most every day...........

Oh Jean, losing a beloved pet is so very very hard. The Rainbow bridge story does tend to comfort us all.. Just think of your dog as going to a loving country over a rainbow bridge. They can play and run and enjoy cookies and treats. There they wait patiently until someday they hear the voice of their beloved master and then joyfully greet them.. Makes me cry every time, but helps me think of them waiting for me. Since I have never been without a dog, there are a whole lot of dogs waiting for me.

So sorry to hear about your beloved pet. They are members of the family and it is so hard. Don't be afraid to grieve regardless of what some people say. He was part of your family for so long.

{{{{Mary]]]]

Mabel, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your pet. Our pets, I truly believe, are like family members. I am thinking about you. Take care.

I've cried enough over my various pets. I always keep them for their life times and they just don't live long enough. . .claire

I feel such empathy from you.........jean

Mable please accempt my condolences on the death of your dear dog. I know how it is to lost a older dog and also a new one. I don't think it makes any difference the pain is terrible. Please know it will get better.

Theres 2 scools of thought about losing a pet. One mourn for a while two get another one right away. I am in the second catagory. Miss Emma is smoothing the way for me.

Last summer, we lost our Corgi, Rosie, my favorite of the four we had up to that point. After several months of grieving, we found another Corgi, Caila. She doesn't replace Rosie, being of a very different personality, but she does keep the house from being empty and she makes us laugh every day. My condolences to all who have lost pets. It is indeed painful.

I came across Mary Shelley's Frankenstein and decided to read it. It is very different from the movie versions, and I was disgusted with Frankenstein for his weakness and lack of foresight. If a monster says he will "be there on your wedding night", you don't wander the halls of the inn, wringing your hands and leaving your bride alone!

Having lost two black labs, I sympathize with all who have lost a beloved pet. There will never be another Shadow. Her ashes are buried near her sister at the side of our house.

Currently I am reading a Robert B.Parker novel. I love his short chapters. He doesn't 'waste words' but his stories aren't sparse.

We had a lot of company this past four days and everyone was cooking and we had a lot of children who were eating everywhere - the most common comment about Choco - the dog - not being there was, "oh! choco's not here to eat that food off the floor, we'll have to clean that up!" and we all laughed remembering Choco and that we would have previously said," Choco will get it" when the cheerios - or whatever hit the floor. Thanks for all your kind sentiments......we will get another dog, not sure how soon.......jean

Oh Perkie, did not know you had lost Rosie.. Corgis are so very special to all of us who own them. My Bridget at 11 and a half is slowing down a lot this summer. She has problems with the heat. I dread the slow downhill, but she can still make me laugh and each morning she greets me at 5:30 am with a jump on the bed and a delicate air kiss on my nose.. So I rejoice in her aging and loving behavior.

Anyone read "Ellen Foster" by Faye Gibbons? I ran across this in the online book club from our community library service. It reads like an autobiography, though fiction. Different and interesting. There is a sequel called The World All Around Us. I have reserved that at the library and am waiting to see if I want to read on when this is finished. At the same trip to the library I picked up another called Storming Heaven, a novel by Denise Giardina. It is about an actual event that happened in the early 1920s when 10,000 coal miners in WV and Ky threatened to overthrow the governments of two counties. It is a story dear to my heart as I have always had compassion for the situation of the miners and their families.

Macou, I loved "Ellen Foster." I didn't know about the sequel. Thanks for mentioning it.

Was at a recent family reunion/50th Anniv celebration, and met one of the grand/niece's chocolate lab, Marley. What a sweet dog she is..... at first I thought they meant to say Marlee, as in Marlee Matalin, but Marley is a good name for a girl dog, too. Everyone loved her - and every so often, she would make a charming chortling sound, as if she could not stand all the fun she was having. Was well-behaved, too - having a good young mistress, Kim, who took wonderful care of her. isak

I read Ellen Foster a long time ago. Did not know about the sequel either. Will look for it.

I've read some wonderful hard hitting books in the past couple of weeks. I'll start with the one I just finished last night - "A Wild Ride Up The Cupboards", by Ann Bauer.

This is a realistic look at how a family struggles, and how a marriage suffers over the years, when one of the children is autistic. Besides the ongoing story line, there is a secondary story that delves into the background of the mother, as she researches her family - trying to find genetic clues or answers to her sons autism.

I think you will really like all the main characters in this story. I was totally in sync with the family, and liked each and every member. The grandparents (the woman's parents), were sometimes critical, but always loving and dependable, and willing to step up and help out in yet another crisis. Lots of reality in this book. The author must have had first hand experinece, to be able to write like she did.

The only thing I didn't like was her choice of a title. Although it has some significance to the story, I think she could have chosen a better one that would draw in more readers. It's such an odd title, that it might discourage people from picking up the book in a library or bookstore.

When I was looking up "Ellen Foster" I found that there is a movie starring Jena Malone, Ted Levine, Julie Harris, Glynnis O'Connor, Debra Monk, Barbara Garrick, Kate Burton, Zeljko Ivanek, Lynne Moody, & Bill Nunn. I placed a hold on it. I read the book some time ago but don't remember it very well.

I just finished "The Highest Tide" by Jim Lynch. It is fiction but reads like an autobiographical account of a 13-year-old boy's summer on the Washington coast near Olympia. Miles is out on the tidal flats every night, harvesting clams for a local restaurant and other sea life for aquariums. He makes some rare finds and becomes famous, with all of fame's attendant problems. It is well written and I almost feel like I have been out there with Miles.

Marilyne I also finished Wild Ride Up The Cupboards and I know I have commented before but I really enjoyed it.

BTW I just finished last night. The Devil Wears Prada. I thought it was kind of silly but I finished it. If things like that really goes on and a employer can treat an emplyee as she did I can't believe it in this day and age. Also the person that allows herself to be treated in such a shameful way deserves what she gets.

Of course I can't say here what I would have told her after about the first 10 minutes haha

I have been racing through all the Sandra Dallas books I can find. I can't get enough of her writing. Hope she write forever. So far I've read Buster Midnight's Cafe, Chili Queen, Mattie Sempson's Diary, Persian Pickle Club. Thank you whoever recommended her. I've got to improve my notes so I kinow who to thank. I've been merely writing author and title, not the source. If you haven't read her, you are missing out on a great read.

JudyLaird - So it was you who recommended "Cupboard"! Thank you! I knew that someone had mentioned it in this discussion, which is how I happened to order it. I was instantly intrigued when I read your comments, because I have an autistic granddaughter, plus Asperger's syndrome in another family member. I really loved the book, and thought it was so very realistic and true to life.
I also read "The Devil Wears Prada" last week. It was entertaining, but completely unrealistic, IMO. I felt the same way you did about Miranda - no way would I last even one day in her employ! I do plan to see the movie, because I like Merle Streep, and I'm curious as to how she plays the part. But I'm not in a big hurry so will likely wait for the DVD.

MrsSherlock - Tomorrow I plan to start reading "Buster's Midnight Cafe". I'll let you know how I like it.

Devil Wears Prada. The movie was sort of fun, mostly becaue Meryl Streep is fantastic, but I felt the same way a bout the book and the movie. Why would anyone let themselves be put down that way. I like some of what they call Chic Lit, but not that particular one. I have a note on the autistic child and family book, but have never yet gotten the book. Time.. never enough..

The movie , The Devil Wears Prada, was a good way to spend a couple of hours on a Sat. afternoon......Meryl Streep was just great as she usually is in any movie she plays in.............

I had something to say this morning and my keyboard quit after I typed a long post. I bought a new one on my way home and came in here to install it and the old one is fine. P.S. I forgot what I had to say.

)=

Judy, what a day! And you have survived to tell about it too. What is )=

Later, you might remember what you wanted to tell us.

and I'm waiting out a case of the RUNS. . . can't sleep until it's all over and I've had six imodium AD's and Two tylonal codeines and it's not done yet. I wish I had someone to talk with though. the runs are very boring.and no I don't want to read. I suppose there are people at one of the chats. might do that. bye all.

Hi Claire, I would have talked to you. I didn't know you were over here.

Oh Claire, I wasnt up, but I do know that feeling. Seems like the world is asleep except for you. I listen to audio tapes, so found that was a good answer for me when ill in the night.

I emphathize with you, Claire. I had a similar night a couple of weeks ago. Mostly I just lay down and waited for the next trip! Hope you are feeling better now.

I made a valiant attempt to read "The Dream of Scipio" by Iain Pears. I read "An Instance of the Fingerpost" and was able to follow the plot, although I found it slow-moving. I found "The Dream of Scipio" to be so confusing that after 70 pages I had no idea what the plot was supposed to be and could not keep track of the characters. Oh, well.

I did read most of "Blackberry Winter", an autobiography by Margaret Mead. I loved the first part when she was telling stories about her family and the last part when she told about her daughter and grand-daughter. In the middle, during her three marriages and her struggles in New Guinea and Bali while doing field research, I skipped a lot. All in all, I am glad I read it. Hers was and is a family of strong, intelligent women.

maybe we should have a discussion called NIGHT-OWLS so that people who are up know where to go to find company. . .just a thought. . .claire

Claire, that's a good idea.

Claire - What a great idea! A discussion called Night Owls sounds good to me. I'm often up during the night for a couple of hours, and would love a place to post my sleepless thoughts. I have visited the SN chat room in the middle of the night, but it's been many years ago. Seemed like either there was no one in there at all, or if there was it was usually a few people who were already connected and had personal conversations going.

in the suggestion discussion which seems to be an extension of an old one but full of people who are familiar to me. I mentioned my experience with hats. . .we missed each other.

the chat people are usually very light hearted and not interested in the subjects that we find interesting. also they come and go pretty fast. it's mostly hello how's the weather and gotta go now. bye. We can do better than that. . .Claire

Night Owls - I hope it works out.

we're designing it right now at the discussion for suggestions and comments. yours would be helpful. . . claire

I hope Mrs. Sherlock is a night owl too.

Perkie,, Blackberry was and is one of my favorite autobiographies. Her experience with men was sort of off and on, but her vision of life and her family was great. I am not a night owl unless ill, but the nightowl sounds great for people who are awake.

http://tinyurl.com/kzulx

and both of us can use a little laughter. . .claire

Steph in this day and age I thought you were talking about a "Blackberry" cell phone thingy. Something things are taking on new meaning Use a blackberry eat a blackberry and read a blackberry.

The nithgt owl things sounds great for you people up late for one or more reasons. I may have bad nights but I am way to lazy to get out of the bed, just grab a book.

Maybe Ginny will see this and start something for you guys. Goosness knows she loves new folders hahaha

Also, i don't know if i posted this before or not, but anyone who has experience w/ a person who has autism would probably like reading "Song of the Gorilla Nation" I'll check on an author, don't have the name in my head. It's an autobio by a woman who is autistic and the experiences of her life, very interesting. My f2f read it about a year ago.......jean

I am a night owl. Many time I post after midnight. Most of the time I read after turning off the pc.

GinnyAnn, I like to read at night too.

Judy,, aha.. never thought of the blackberry as anything other than a book and a wonderful jam. Used to have blackberry bushes and they have the most massive thorn arrangement in creation. But oh, I do love them. The gadget that is the blackberry is certainly talked about all the time, but am not quite sure I have seen one. We just ordered a GPS...Garmen 2720 and something tells me that is going to be the gadget I am learning for the next few months. Plan on using it in our coach on trips.

GPS is a great thing Stephanie you will have fun learning it. Some say turn left at the next corner, wooops you missed the corner would you like an alternate route.

My sons are glued to the blackerry's

The advent of the inexpensive GPS device has spun off a great leisure activity known as Geo Cacheing. Cryptic clues are avaible for a cache and the seeker must deduce the location using the clues and the GPS reading., To document successful completion of the task there is a sign-up sheet in the cache. Counting caches is the object, so he who has the most caches wins. My son, who live in Silicon Valley, the capital of geo cacheing, is an avid fan.

I have been hearing about geocaching, but it is more of a midwestern and western thing. The east tends to be crowded and touchy about crossing private property..

I have an idea. Why don't all you late nighter' just come here and say is any one else up and then you can char. I just read Ann Alden was up at 4:3o this morning. If your up you could just check here.

I rarely have trouble sleeping, but when I do, I don's sleep all night. So I will be checking in when I'm around in the wee small hours. I'm neither a lark nor an owl.

Ok the fiction group will be aware anyway. That's helpful. I turned out to be a pretty uncomfortable owl last nite. . .one with the runs. yuck.

Winsum. is it time to check with your MD? Sounds like more than a simple case of rums.

I'm an insomniac and I have a sleeping pill Halcion for it that can create this condition. a single does will make me slightly loose and although two are proscribed I usually avoid doing that for good reason. Well . . . I did that and then two monster salads two days in a row. I think I did to myself. It happened once before.

One way to control it is the Tylonal codeine that I occassionally take for arthritis etc. and this time I held off wondering if it was going to help anyway. I should have used it sooner because this morning I finally did take it and it really helped with pain and usually can makee you constipated which it tried. . . and that's helpful.

Chemistry was never a choice for me as an art/psych major but I've used it within my ceramic operations and archestrating meds to keep the amount as small as possible.

I did become addicted to the codeine and had to go through a nasty five month period of withdrawal to kick it.

there. but thanks for your concern and no more monster salads although sometime in the future I might need two halcion pills. I'd rather come here and socialize.

so now a little goofy from all of that and no food and no coffee I only have a little nausea to deal with and can be distracted from that. . .HERE. Claire

I'm one who always takes half the prescription until i see whats going to happen, and usually half works fine - we're just sensitive types, uh?

Marni and i are often up late talking to each other when we're in a common book discussion. Of course, we're both east coast people, so it wouldn't be as late for some of you, but you'll find me here often.....jean

the real culprit. THE NUTS.

lots of them in almost every salad I make and in these two days of lots of pine nuts cashes almonds because they were what I had. TRADER JOES a specialty market specializes in nuts and so do I.

usually have pecans and peanuts . . .all unsalted sometime raisens to make own trail mix and variations as offered there, and this time I unloaded without measuring a fist full of pine nuts etc. and almonds and cachews smaller there.

the salads are huge, a meal in themselves twice over. two meals those days and the whole head of romaine hearts before they can wilt.avocado goes well and is tolerated but hard to find a good now. I love salads. my mom used to say "don't put everything in the salad claire". which is just what I do.

talk about sensitive. I really did challenge my system.

I love nuts claire

Claire, how much difference it makes to know the cause. Glad it's something you have control over. And that you are getting back to normal. I've always been afraid of addiction; alcoholism runs in my family and I was married rto an alcoholic for over 20 years so my children got it from both sides. Still, I was taking megadoses of ibufprofen for my arthritis until i discovered glucosamine. Never touch Vitamin I now! It's so comforting to be able to let our little scerets out, isn't it? Alcoholics' children learn early to keep personal things hidden and secret.

I even dream up things to do with it while waiting for sleep. It would be better to talk about it I guess I should sign up for one of the food discussions. You know I'm a painter etc. I do the same thing with planning food. and cook that way too. never knowing what I'm going to do until I do. AND THEN I EAT IT ALLLLL. because I live alone.

secrets . . .I guess I don't have many. we could have a TELL ALL FOLDER. I wonder if anyone would come.

Ah, what a quandry. Reveal secrets to get them off our chests or read others secrets to gloat. Somehow I don't care what other's keep secret. But revealing mine is risky because I fear that others will think less of me. I am fixated on food, too. But I read recipes instead of actually cooking. I allow myself to experiment when I go out to dine, but at home it is always something quick. Maybe we should have a discussion for foodies who don't want to eat too much. Sort of, what am I obsessing about now, is chocolate calling my name again? How can I turn down the volume without eating a whole pan of fudge?

heaven and would make me so sick. my secrets have to do with personal grooming etc. and I really don't care what people think of me anymore. the time for that is long gone I can't change so why bother. Chocolate is part of my home made trail mix. thos little chips tht you use for cookies. I think why make the cookie whan I just want the chocolate. so a few of those will suffice as well.

a good idea we have an over eaters group that never meets. last time i was there a year or so ago it hadn't. but foodahalics actually have to be discouraged from thinking about it all the time. sooooo. back to books. I have lots of cook books LOL.

looking for the night owls?? Are you all eating fudge and can't talk? Claire must be sleeping better tonight. Hurray!

Guess i'll go pick up the Nora Robts i bo't on our trip to Georgia last week. I don't often buy books, we have such a good library, but we were away for a week and i knew i didn't bring enough reading material, so grabbed an N.R and a Fern Michaels at a CVS, never heard of FM, but it was enjoyable, about a group of women who reek revenge on people who aren't getting their just rewards in the justice system. It was a little unrealistic - they beat up the National Security Advisor to the President of the US, who was a wife beater, and they got away w/ it!??! Need a little unreality now and again.....jean

Hi Everybody,

Now that I am here I can't keep up with the conversation. There are a hundred posts, well, almost a hundred.

slept a couple of hours.arthitis woke me up and this chair likes me so here I am. and now to read the two posts before me .claire

I don't even remember who that is now theyve been playing musical jobs up there on DC. so what to talk about. . .is anone still around. I guess I'll hit my subscriptions and if there is that will bring me back. ssya soon . . . maybe claire

Claire where is your arthritis? My lower back hurts. I think it's arthritis.

hi hats

i's all over but especcially iin the spine and hips I just dosed up to go back to sleep but it'll take a while so what's with you.

it could be just beginning

lower back or lumbar section gets it most people most of the time. which just keeps marching on. I remember all those parts from the life classes at ucla when we drew the spine vertebre by each and all the other bones as well. I even knew their names for a while.

arther is common with young/old people like my kids in their fifties. I'm off to bed now. seeya tomorrow?

I might come here some of the time, not all of the time. It cuts into my reading time. Sorry. Besides, it seems like it's more fit for the discussion area.

All the night owls are prowling. I am up, but it is 8:30 am on Saturday. One son, his wife and two grandchildren are here. The four year old gives new meaning to terror. His new trick is a full throated scream when he is thwarted. In a townhouse, this is not a good thing. I may not make it through the day.

I thought this is where fiction is discussed.

But physical complaints aren't fiction. Have you tried the Health Matters folder?

Hi, Lucy, what are you reading? I've been browsing through Maeve Binchy's Dublin, all the inter-connected stories: Scarlet Feather, Tara Road, Evening Classes and the one about the restaurant. I like that type, not a true series, but filling in bits about characters that may be minor in one book and major in another. BTW, as in a f2f book club, we are friends here and we talk about more than books.

I've enjoyed the Maeve Binchey stories too....think the restaurant one was Quinlans?? Anyway it was another good one of hers.
A while back I mentioned a book called Storming Heaven by Denise Giardina. Being a slow reader, I am about half way through and it is as good as the review sounded. The characters are mountain folk in WV and KY who came through the huge change from their independence as farm folk to the work in the mines and all that happened to their lives and families. It's an interesting historical work as well as a good people story.

Sorry to hear of all the physical trouble among this group, but I suppose in this Sr. Net we are prone to some of these, if not more. Interesting little discussion about letting our little personal foibles out to the public. We sure do all have them and maybe there is just a bit of relief in airing them and learning that others do indeed have some of the same. Maybe this isn't really the correct place, but then we share our love of books, so can't we just digress a little on another topic?

I like novels/mysteries about the by-gone monarchs of England. "The Daughter of Time" by Josephine Tey (real name - Elizabeth MacKintosh) is about the villainous Richard III murdering his nephews. She has written several books with Inspector Alan Grant as the hero.

She also wrote plays under the name - Gordon Daviot.

-I just survived 11 days with 10 kids- 17 down to 6 yrs. old. Seems like they all scream.

to see who is around when it's late. since there is only the cafe designated I end up talking to others about things that come up. it may not be the intended thread which was why I suggested that the nite owls br sent to their own folder. instead the cafe was set up for that but there are currently problems there and no one was there last night.

as for physical problems. Old people have em and now and then they become a subject for discussion.

that's awful how long will they be there . and short of hitting him you just ignore I guess. too bad he's not a dog the dog whisperer would have a solution. national geographic has a series on him.

Lucy yes we discuss books here we are also friends and can mention an ailment from time to time. If some people are up in the middle of the night they are welcome to discuss books here and if something personal should come well so what.

Macou I enjoyed your post.

I too have trouble sleeping not so much sleeping but if I do get there and then wake up look out. I usually reach for a book. But those little pills are mighty handy also.

My thoughts go out to those of you entertaining grandchildren. They can be delightful and also terrifying...to say the least. Last week-end we had our son and DIL from NC here, not with grandchildren, but with "Grand Dog". He is a loveable little fellow but when they decided that it was best he stay at home out of the heat while we had our big 80th birthday celebration for my husband, he got a little nervous and ripped up the casing of our sliding door and I see his cute little nail marks in the sheers. They were upset....as we were, but tried not to make too much of it. These family get togethers don't happen that often. We sanded and stained the wood after they were gone and no one will see the snagged sheers but me. Our grandchildren are way past the tantram stage so I guess a little togetherness with grandpuppy is not so bad.

I guess it wouldn't work with children, but when my cats get out-of-line, they get squirted in the face with a spray bottle of water. Works every time.

Mrs. Sherlock.. The mental vision of squirting the grandson will make my day for the next week. I use the squirt for my dogs if they bark since we live in a Townhouse and I dont want extra noise.. Josephine Tey.. had a wonderful book in Daughter of Time, and wrote a lot of other good stuff. I have been listening to fantasy's about early early England. specifically Marion Zimmer Bradley's Avalon trilogy. Unfortunately I did the middle one first, but I will survive.. Next I am doing the last and finally, since I just got the tape, I will do the first one.. They are fun.. All fantasy about the magic island of Avalon, the druids and the priestesses of the Goddess and the enlargement of christianity..I think listening is more fun than reading this particular works.

The reading schedule for "The Dupin Tales" has been posted. You can use the following link to easily guide you to the schedule.

The Dupin Tales

Bill H

At a time when many of us are searching for meaning, Layne Maheu's extraordinary debut novel asks us to linger in a masterfully rendered ancient world just long enough to ponder the unsettled state of things. Through a truly poetic sense of language, he has created a lyrical meditation on the relationship between humanity and the heavens. Song of the Crow is a provocative portrait of the reasons for human fear and of the role that free will always plays when we struggle, not just to make sense of things, but to endure. Recalling both the magical imagination of Richard Adams's Watership Down and the spiritual richness of Anita Diamant's The Red Tent, Layne Maheu's Song of the Crow is a soaring debut.

I have been invited to go meet this author saturday afternoon should be interesting.

Judy, I will look for this book.

which I'm still reading. a very complex extensivee and well written thriller.

also THE EXILE and THE MACHIAVELLI COVENANT now to call the used book store.

by Lorna Landvik author of Angry Housewives Eating Bon-bons"?

The next to the last chapter is narrated by "Darcy" and it's about the 3 teen-age girls having a night of running naked in the snow and eating junk food and discussing the events of their recent lives. But what was it really about??? I have a strong sense that Darcy was not quite comfortable, but the author never "ends' it for us....oh i hope some one has read it......jean

Have read several Lorna books, but dont recall that one. She is an interesting writer. She goes from surface everyday things to startling you with an insight of how women really think in a flash.

jean I have not read that one by her (yet). Here is a link to discussion questions from the publisher http://www.readinggroupguides.com/guides3/your_oasis_flame_lake1.asp

I thought the plot of "Your Oasis on Flame Lake", by Lorna Landvik, sounded familiar, so I checked my list and, yes, I have already read it. I really like Lorna Landvik, but I don't remember enough about it to discuss it. Sorry. Sieve-brain syndrome strikes again.

There was some discussion here recently about a sequel to "Ellen Foster" by Kaye Gibbons. It is "The life all around me by Ellen Foster", in which Ellen is now 15. Library Journal's review includes the following:

The plot is minimal; the pleasure for fans will be in Ellen's idiosyncratic worldview and signature syntax ("The rhythm of the world out here picks up when the farmer across the road begins plowing.... Crossing the wide ditch and walking... as the ground's being turned over to expose arrowheads, which you may find one or several of, I was getting dirty in the good clothes I shouldn't have been over there in").

I liked Ellen Foster, but am not sure I am up for a sequel.

Agreed Stephanie, I did enjoy Ellen Foster, but took the sequel back without reading it.....just couldn't go for another whole book of her.

Thanks so much to whoever (whomever?) recommended these three books! The messages move so fast in the book discussions, that I've learned to quickly write down the name of any book that sounds like it might be something I would enjoy. But unfortunately I've neglected to include the name of the persons who recommended the books. I'm going to remember to do that from here on out.

The first one was mentioned back a couple of months ago: "Juniper Tree Burning", by Goldberry Long. I was hooked on it instantly, when I realized it was about a girl and her brother, who were raised in a hippy type commune/family in New Mexico. I have first hand knowledge of how this effects a child, because my sister in law left my brother and went to live in a commune in NM with my niece, in the late 60's and through the 70's. Believe me, it's a lifestyle that's incredibly hard on children, as I found out in later years from my niece. Goldberry Long captures those feelings, which makes me pretty sure that she was raised like the girl in the story. This is her first novel, and I don't see how she will ever be able to write another that could be as good as this. I'm anxious to know who else in here has read this book, and what they thought of it?

The second book was "Buster Midnight's Cafe", by Sandra Dallas. This story was good, with a writing style very similar to Fanny Flagg. It follows the lives of three friends, from the time they are little girls in the 1920's up until now. Some of it may be a bit unbelievable, but it's still a good story. Both funny and serious.

The third book I finished last night, and I hated to have it end! "Your Oasis on Flame Lake", by Lorna Landvik. Just an EXCELLENT family story, written with lots of humor, but with plenty of drama too! I predict that everyone will love the two families in this book, and their three daughters. This is the kind of book I like the most - full of characters that seem real. {{{I loved it!}}}

You made all three books sound wonderful. Wrote them down and will look them up. I have read most of Landviks, but that title is unfamiliar.

Just finished a first novel by Kate Brallier. If she doesn't become a first rate author I will miss my bet.

The book is Seal Island and takes place in Maine and is a terrific book.

Some great sounding books mentioned here today. I've put them on my library list. Meanwhile I've just started another by Phillip Gulley who wrote Home to Harmony. Light and easy reading for hot summer days. At the same time I picked up another novel of the south by Elizabeth Berg called We Are All Welcome Here. I'll let you know about that one. Storming Heaven that I mentioned a bit ago turned out to be a sad but true and shocking novel written from life experiences in the coming of the United Mine Workers to the mines of WV and KY.

My favorite Sandra Dallas book is Chili Queen. All the other books except Buster Midnight's Cafe have characters which turn up, maybe not a leading character, but at least a mention. Makes it fun to tie the stories together that way. Since Buster was the first I read, I'll have to re-read it to see if there are ties to the other books there as well. Chili Queen is a hoot and a half.

Thanks for the mentions of new (to me) authors. I'll need them as I'm reading up all the ones I can find which are already on my list. Keep 'em coming, folks!

I've been in the hospital and haven't been in in a week to catch up.....the questions were interesting. Maybe i'll suggest this book for my f2f group......jean

Mabel, I am so glad you are back. Take care.

Found the Lorna Landvik and the book on growing up hippie in my paperback exchange, so ordered them. Looking forward to reading them. Since Sandra Dallas wrote a lot of stuff, thought I would go to the store and look at her stuff and decide what to start with.

I had "Chili Queen." I can't find it. I wanted to start it.

I have Chili Queen. I have my copy. I am going to start it later today.

Hate, read it carefully to the last word on the lasy page.

Mrs. Sherlock, I have started it. I have met Addie on the train. I have heard about Welcome. I have not met her yet.

You two really have my curiosity going as to "Chili Queen"! It sounds good. Now I'm going to have to find it ASAP!

I am deep into Robertson Davies' The Deptford Trilogy these days. It is a deep story,told on three levels. First, Fifth Business, is the story of a man whose beginnings were in the small Canadian town of Deptford. He tells about his involvement with the townsfolk, specifically a boyhood rivalk, and a younger boy who suffered a difficult birth because of a snowball thrown at him by the rival; it hit a young wife, seven months pregnant, and precipitated her into premature labor and birth. The protagnist' life and the lives of the other two boys develop in wonderous ways. The Manticore, book two, is a deeplu detailed study of a Jungian analysis which is connected to the rival. It was so fascinating that I could hardly put the book down. Book three, World of Wonders, is turning into a denouement of the third boy's life, and a truly wonder full story it is. This is very satisfying reading for it has characters whose actions tantalize and amaze, prose which is beautiful and complex, and enough foreigness to keep one's interest from flagging. Thanks to the bookie who recommended this book. I am most grateful for the experience.

Thanks to the bookie who recommended this book. I am most grateful for the experience.

You're welcome! So glad someone else discovered Davies. He's (was)a genius.

Cathie! So glad you saw my message. Have you read other books by Davies? Lots of titles at the library. There is a Cornish trilogy, I don't remember the rest.

No, I have never quite gotten up the nerve, since they are all so long. I bet they're all great, though.

I loved FIFTH BUSINESS and the last book, but didn't care for the middle one too well. Where are you in the book?

two and a half years ago I moved in here but never did move into the office/den whatever properly and I can't find a thing. so be seeing you. I just finished Allan Folsoms THE EXILE. He develop[es such good characters each time you'de think he'd do them in series but so far he hasn't. I actually prefer it this way but he left us up in the air with the ending of this one and he has a new one coming out next year so maybe. . . .I'll have the den in shape by then? maybe. . .

I was the one who first mentioned "Juniper Tree Burning", Marilyne, in #80. If you click on SEARCH in the row of buttons at the top of the first message and type in "Juniper Tree Burning", including the quotation marks, you will see your message and mine. I was glad to see your assessment. I can see that having a relative that lived through a similar situation, it would have a greater impact for you.

I, too, became deeply involved with Robertson Davies' Deptford trilogy, Mrs. Sherlock. When I finished, I just moved on to other of his works because I wasn't ready to give up his writing style. Another one I liked was "Murther and Walking Spirits".

I read the first in the Shopaholic series by Sophie Kinsella. It is light and breezy, and while I got a little tired of moaning about her debts and then running out to shop again, I was caught up enough to keep going and am glad I did. Becky does some growing up along the way and it ends satisfactorily. She knows so much about clothes, it is too bad that she doesn't have a job somewhere in the fashion industry.

I am waiting for Juniper Tree Burning.. Also Buster Midnights Cafe.. all from the paperback exchange. I just finished a second book by a Canadian author. It is funny, even though English is our common language. Every once in a while in the books, they use a common slang and it takes me forever to figure out what is happening.

Stephanie........thanks for the tip on the paperback exchange web site......I have been very busy with it!

It has been a year since Marilyne recommended "Empire Falls", by Richard Russo and I finally listened to the Recorded Book. I was fascinated by the way the present and the past were interwoven to tell the story of the main characters and how their lives were orchestrated by Mrs. Whiting who owned most of the property in the town. The narration by Ron McLarty added to my enjoyment. He made each person distinct by changes in tone and accent. To make a movie, there must have been a lot of editing. I can almost imagine Ed Harris as Miles, but am having trouble picturing Paul Newman as Max!

Perkie - So glad that you liked the narration of Empire Falls! The book itself is right near the top of my list of favorites books over the past 5 years. When or if you see the movie, you will see that Paul Newman was a perfect Max! And his wife, Joanne Woodward was excellent as Mrs. Whiting However, that said, and as much as I loved the book, I was disappointed in the movie. Something was missing, but I'm not sure what it was? Maybe I wa expecting too much? The parts were well cast all the way around, but it didn't seem to come together like the book did. I would be curious as to what you think?

I'm sorry that you didn't want to finish "Juniper Tree Burning". I know it certainly wasn't a happy story but so true to what real life was like for kids who were raised under those bizarre conditions. Yes, "Junie" was self destructive when she grew up, but that was typical of so many of the children who survived that strange movement in history. Please, don't think it was exaggerated. My dear departed niece was a sad example of how desolate life was for so many dislocated children of the hippy generation. Lots of young, innocent lives were badly scarred, and many of them were never able to fit into "normal" society.

I loved the movie but hadn't and haven't read the book. It's hard to know what to do first. . .claire

I loved the book. I didn't know about the movie. I can't wait to look at it.

The book Every Move She Makes by Beverly Barton turned out to be very good, could hardly put it down waiting to see who-dun-it

and you are cetainly well versed in that as well as writing, but what do you know about MAKING ART. That's what I do and have done for a lifetime. I live the woman in the mans world of art and have the problem in my world if I seek it's approbation. I have had show but I no longer bother.

I do exhibit it on a web page and now and then on my blog. I want people to see it and now and then someone sends me remarks and they are always kind.

As long as I'm not trying to SELL it or make a REPUTATION IN THE ART WORLD. I don't suffer. But if that were to be my prime focus I would feel rejected and frustrated and it would interfere with the making of art . Early on I did visit galleries and had showings and realized that men own this art world and that even with the women who run it, it's a business.

It has almost nothing to do with the art itself.

I would like to review your book from this standpoint if you would like to send me a review copy. Claire read

see web page here under title and blog. And e-mail address

Maryann McFadden - I'm truly happy for you, and hope that this review by Dr. Linquist will call people's attention to your book. Just a mention on Oprah's show, or in reference to Oprah, is usually a guarantee of a best seller. I gave my copy of your book to my daughter-in-law, who enjoyed it very much and then passed it along to her best friend. They belong to a book club, so maybe it will get discussed there?

Best of luck and good wishes going out to you and your book in the future!

Authors who wish to publicize/promote their own books are asked to please post in the Author's Corner. SeniorNet, as a nonprofit organization, does not permit the posting of commercial ventures. SeniorNet has made an exception for authors by allowing them to post in the Author's Corner.

I have moved the two posts by two authors promoting their own works to the Author's Corner and those wishing to read about those can do so by clicking HERE

jane

I didn't think Junie's story in "Juniper Tree Burning" was exaggerated, Marilyne. That's why it was so hard for me to read about it.

Wendy Lesser's "The Pagoda in the Garden" is subtitled 'a novel in three parts'. Book one is in 1901/1926, Book two is in 1956, and Book three is in 1973-1975. I made the mistake of thinking there would be some connection between the books, which caused me more confusion than was necessary. I kept losing my place, finding my mind wandering, and re-reading numerous paragraphs. Apparently I was getting something from the stories, because I finished all three books. The pagoda was mentioned briefly at the ends of books one and three, but otherwise had no bearing on the stories.

I liked Anita Shreve's "Light on Snow" a lot more. It is narrated by a 12-year-old girl who is living in New Hampshire with her father. Her mother and baby sister had been killed in an auto accident, and they moved to a secluded farm to heal. On a snowshoe walk, they find a baby abandoned in a sleeping bag in the snow. The rest of the story is their struggle between what is right legally and what is right for them morally. It is written with a lot of feeling, and I was touched by it.

I bogged down, however, on Melissa Bank's "The Wonder Spot". I wish I liked it as much as the reviewer for Library Journal did. I was listening to it on an audio book, and wished I had the book so I could skip some of the kvetching. Oh, well.

Well.......just let me say I cried on and off throughout the book...I believe this this is the author's first nove......I liked it very much.......she reminds me of Elizabeth Berg whom we all know writes wonderfully about women's feelings, family's etc........A two day read and I think you will like it................

I have Juniper Tree and am looking forward to reading it, since we are off in the coach, I only take light stuff. Usually too tired to concentrate at night.

You are right, Marilyne. Paul Newman is an excellent Max in "Empire Falls" I have watched the first half of the movie, it is on 2 DVDs, and the actors are all well cast with the possible exception of Zach Minty. He seems a bit baby-faced for the role. The screenplay follows the book closely, with the use of Miles Roby as narrator. I'm glad I read the book first.

I loved "Empire Falls" by Russo. I am going to put the movie in my queue. I like Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward.

The book was so "big", with so much going on, that it was pretty hard to do it justice in a movie. But they did an admirable job, and I thought the casting was just about perfect. Not only the main characters, but also the secondary ones were good too. Dennis Farina did a great job of playing Walt Comeau, and Phillip Seymour Hoffman was a good Charlie Mayne/Whiting. (He's the actor who won the Oscar this year for "Capote".) Also the young girl who played Tick, was excellent. Perkie, I hardly remember Zach Minty, in the movie, so he must not have made an impression on me either.

The actor who plays the young Max Roby, is Josh Lucas. I've seen him in lots of movies lately, and I'm really starting to like him alot. He played the sheriff in "An Unfinished Life", and had a big role in the movie "Around the Bend", with Michael Caine and Christopher Walken. That was sure a good movie, I thought.

I want to thank the person who (several months ago) recommended Snow Flower and the Secret Fan. I just got around to reading it and it was wonderful. I can't believe I had never heard of it before.

I have a question for those who read the book and saw the movie. In the book, did Miles Roby really overcome his fear of heights? I was surprised when he climbed to the top of the ladder in the movie and stood looking around. I didn't feel it was necessary as a benchmark to show Miles' beginning independence from Mrs. Whiting.

For those of you who read all things southern.....Bobbie Ann Mason has a new book out......."Nancy Culpepper".......You will remember her book "Spence + Lila".....this is another good read with lots of "southern flavor"....

Perkie, I'm trying to remember the significance of the "fear of heights" thing, in Empire Falls. All I can recall is when Miles was afraid to climb the ladder to paint the church, but Max scrambled right up there. Then toward the end Miles was still shakey but did go all the way up. Funny, but I remember it in the book, but can't picture either scene in the movie.

I also liked "Light on Snow", by Anita Shreve. It's probably the best of her recent books. I also read her newest, "A Wedding in December", but I don't think I even bothered to mention it in here. It was good enough to finish, but too predictable and very forgettable. She writes too many books I think.

Tigerlily, thanks for the tip-off about Bobbie Ann Mason. I have enjoyed other books by her -- In Country (and the movie, also) and Feather Crowns -- about quintuplets born to a pioneer family. I haven't read Spence and Lila.

I had so much fun----------I came across a book called Luck of the Draw by Carolina Garcia-Aguilera and was it fun, I couldn't put it down part comedy part mystery and just plain fun.

Also discovered Beverley Barton, Close Enough to Kill and am enjoying her books.

In "Empire Falls", the movie, near the beginning, Miles climbs shakily up the ladder to paint the church and has to ask Father Mark to talk him down. Then toward the end, he climbs up near the top, scrapes some of the old paint off, glances up, and climbs to the top and looks around with a big smile on his face. The scene shifts to Miles walking toward the bridge, as he had done as a boy when his mother went to Mrs. Whiting to confess her affair with C.B. Whiting. He stands on the bridge and looks toward the gazebo and meets Mrs. Whiting's eye. That is the best I can do to help jog your memory, Marilyne. I hope it helps. Obviously it was much more impressive, to me, in the movie that in the book.

I read most of "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson. It is the story of the Chicago World's Fair in 1893 and of a serial killer who preyed on young women away from home for the first time. The parts I skipped were mostly the struggles to get the Fair built. I can only handle so many disasters at a time. The book is well written, and there were many things I liked. The first Ferris Wheel was built for the fair and had 36 cars large enough to hold 50 passengers each. It was 264 feet tall and was supposed to out-Eiffel the Eiffel Tower. For a picture, try:

http://www.hydeparkhistory.org/newsletter.html

The public was introduced to zippers, Juicy Fruit gum, Cracker Jacks, and shredded wheat, as well as to the midway and to the enormous white buildings that held the exhibits. It took a couple of weeks, going every day, to see everything. I was impressed.

Perkie - It's been over a year since I've seen the movie, and a couple of years since I read the book. But I do have the book - so now you've given me a good excuse to read it over again. Since Empire Falls is one of my Top Ten favorites over the past decade or so, it will be a pleasure. I just remembered that you said you had listened to the recorded version. I think I might like that, so will check and see if they have it at my library.

I have read several of the Caroline Aguilera books. They are fun, although a bit too too cuban in spots.

I bought two hard cover books yesterday I am still wondering why??

Well they looked good. Between Georgia by Joshilyn Jackson and Water For Elephants which looks really good. Now when will I read them??

I assume you will read your two hard cover books when your arms are feeling strong, Judy Laird! Actually, I read a lot of hard cover books because that is what I find in the library. They make quite a clunk when they jump out of my hands and land on the floor, sometimes in the middle of a word! My hands know when I am going to sleep before my eyes do.

You will probably read "Water For Elephants", by Sara Gruen, before I do. There are 50 holds on 24 copies at our library!

I have a better chance at "Between, Georgia", by Joshilyn Jackson, since it is on audio cassette and supposedly on the shelf. I didn't believe that it is a real town until I looked it up on MapQuest and ePodunk. It has an elevation of 961 feet and a population of 148. It lies between Atlanta and Athens. I lived just outside of Atlanta when I was in high school and attended the University of Georgia in Athens. There are two main highways to Athens, and we always used the other one, so never drove through Between.

A couple of years ago, I read "Snow Falling on Cedars", by David Guterson, and remember liking it a lot. I finally caught up with the movie. I know I should probably be in the Books into Movies Discussion List, but I have enough trouble keeping up with mysteries and fiction. Anyway, even though there was such a long hiatus between reading and watching, I am glad I did them in that order. There were a lot of scenes that seemed to wander off into a dream-like state, but overall it was well done and I am glad I saw it. That fear can be such an ugly emotion is reinforced by this story.

loved em both. . .claire

I must confess that I dont like hard cover either. I buy them sometimes on sale, but prefer paperback very very much.

Can't read hard cover books because I read in bed, but someday when I am old I shall read all my hard cover books. Finished FATAL BURN by Lisa Jackson or I should say it finished me wow what an exciting book now I have to go find her others.

Now I am the opposite. Can't stand to read a paper back. Fact for reading in bed I have gone to Large Prints. Most books that become popular come out in Large Print. Can read reg. print but find these easier on eyes.

JeanneP

I just wish that the bindings of paperbacks was better. The larger ones tend to fall apart in your hands. Very annoying.

Enjoyable. Never have heard of her before, picked up the book at the library book sale. Has anybody read her triology on a Calif town?....jean

Just finished Buster Midnights Cafe..by Sandra Dallas. I have the Persian Pickle club coming, Not sure she will be a heavy favorite of mine. A nice sort of low key change perhaps.

Buster Midnight's Cafe is not exactly representative of her work. My favorite is The Chili Queen.

NO SAFE PLACE by richard north patterson. a very long complex and well done political novel,

I have an early Lorna Landviks' that I am reading just now.. along with James Lee Burkes latest in paperback. He is so intense that the Landvik helps me to relax after reading some of the Burke. I love him, but oh me, he loves violence. I am also struggling through the Poe book for the September book discussion. Not liking it as much as I wanted to. Moves sort of slowly.

Just finished The Pilots Wife....good story, kind of familiar with a little different twist. Good! Now have just started The Oasis on Flame Lake. You are right, in that it is easy reading and enjoyable. I'll stay with the easy readers for the warm weather then look for something longer and more involved for the fall. Too many other things to take my attention just now.

I am reading the Tall Pine Polka.. but this is a double book and the Flame lake is the second one in there.

I just returned The Lincoln Lawyer, by Michael Connelly. It was fun, an easy read and a great beach book.

I'm listening to Robin Cook's Marker on cassette(s).

I just got into Fanny Flagg and sure would like some more of er books. Does anyone know how mamny she has written. Hope to find some. Thanks

I love Fannie Flagg too. My favorite is Welcome to the World, Baby Girl and Redbird Christmas. I love her take on small town life.

Baby Girl is fun and so are most of hers. Never looked up how many, but know I have read all of them She has quite a way of dragging you into a totally foreign life style and making you wish you were there.

just got an e-mail from the library that a copy of Marley and Me is waiting for me. Can't wait to read it as I've read such wonderful reviews. Have any of you read it? Maybe I'll look for a Fanny Flagg book also - have never read any of hers.

YANKEE75 "Fried Green Tomatoes" was Flagg's first book I think..Great..It was made into a movie..

We read Marley and Me and loved it. We cried in parts of it but we treat our animals like part of the family, and this is how they treated Marley.

About a month ago, someone dumped a six week black lab puppy on us. He is precious and we love him dearly but sometimes he shows Marley characteristics and we call him "Devil Dog"

Mary in TX

I wrote glowing reviews in here about, "Your Oasis on Flame Lake". Something about the characters and the story line I just loved. I should have left it at that, and waited for awhile to read other books by Lorna Landvik. I am usually disappointed when I read one book after another of the same author, and should have known better. But instead, I went to the library and got "Patty Jane's House of Curl", and "Angry Housewives Eating Bon Bons". I read "Bon Bons" first, and liked it OK, but I wasn't crazy about it.

I just finished "Patty Jane", and was really disappointed. A totally unrealistic story, and too TOO predictable. It was good enough to finish, but I wouldn't recommend it. However, I'm still curious about the other Landvik books that are out there that I havn't read?? "The Tall Pine Polka" and "All My Stars" sound good but I've lost interest in her books for now, and will wait for a long while before I read anything else of hers.

Marilyn, I have found the same thing. Others have said here that one ook by an author will be a real winner and others just so-so. Like The Secret Life of Bees....a super story but some of her other books just OK. Can't win 'em all I'm sure. I'm in the midst of reading Oasis on Flame Lake and it is an easy and entertaining read, but don't think I could take more than one in succession.

macou - I'll be curious to hear how you rate "Flame Lake", when you finish it? I liked it mainly because the characters seemed real, to me - but it was strictly a lightweight book, and not anything that will make a lasting impression. Much better than the other two that I mentioned, however.

It is interesting how a best selling author seems to churn out books at a breakneck pace. I think I remember reading in here, or somewhere on line, that the popular authors, (such as the ones on Oprah's original list) are REQUIRED by the publisher to write a certain number of books? I think it was one a year? I would love to know if this is true or not?

Marilyn, That could very well be true. Just look at the bookshelves at the super market or any popular place for new books. Note that many of the well known authors are showing new titles at a rather breakneck pace. My feeling on this is that I don't believe that anyone can really come up with a good new story or even do the research required for a good book at that rate. I'll take an author that puts out a fair number of really good stories over a period of years anyday. When I read something that keeps my interest I always think of how much digging that person had to do in order to sound authentic on a subject.

Tall Pine Polka was full of cliches, but did have some interesting characters. I liked The House of Beauty and I have Flame Lake, but have not started it.

One of the best books I have read in a very long time....it is not only about the dog Marley but the whole family and their travails...I laughed, I cried, I could barely read the end of it........I think even if you were not a dog lover which I am, one would love this book.....great writing too...........

Thanks for the reminder of Marley and Me. Recently I scanned a copy and thought it would be a good gift for our Grandson and his fiancee who will be married in October. They adopted a blonde lab puppy just a couple months ago and already he is a solid part of their family along with an older Doxie.

Our thoughts and prayers are with families of those who were on the Comair plane that went down in KY this morning.

I'm looking for someone who in real life knew SHORTHAND and might still remember it. My fathers papers are important to some historians and some of them are in shorthand. It isn't taught anymore in the secretarial environment. There is paid work here for someone who remembers how and would like to help out in this regard.

claire. just contact me with an e-mail if you're interested.

Claire, when I was in high school, we were taught typing and shorthand. The typing took but the shorthand did not. However, it might be possible to locate a retired teacher, through your local high school or vocational school, who would like to earn a little extra money. Or you might look into: http://www.netcom-me.com/secretarialtraining.htm since they still seem to be teaching Pitman's shorthand.

I finally found a copy of "Snow Flower and the Secret Fan", Hats, and agree with you. It is so well written and the description and detail of their lives was vivid. I feel like I lived her life along with her, except that I didn't have to have my feet bound. I can't even fathom the excruciating pain those Chinese women endured.

Perkie I agree. The book, Snow Flower and the Secret Fan, is unforgettable. I had never heard of or read about the deep meaning of friendship between the women of China. I am glad you liked the book too.

Several of you have mentioned Elizabeth Berg. The first of her novels that I read was "Until the Real Thing Comes Along". It was such a pleasure to read a first person novel about a single woman bemoaning her single status without once whining. It is written earnestly and with feeling but still had a sort of lightness about it. I enjoyed it.

one of my favorites she invents real people and uses them to explore modern women and their challenges. . .claire

I love Elizabeth Berg too.

I read Elizabeth Berg off and on. She has sometimes interesting works, but some of them go on a bit further than I want. Am reading Juniper Tree Burning just now. I can only read a bit at a time. A little confusing with the time switches.. All of the anger is overwhelming at best.

The discussion of The Murders in the Rue Morgue is open for your posts. Follow this link to the discussion.

The Murders in the Rue Morgue

Bill H

I came across an interesting little book at the library. It is "The Inheritance" by Louisa May Alcott. It was found by a pair of biographers going through her papers and was a hand-written MS in a red notebook. Inside was a note in Alcott's writing, indicating that it was her first novel written in 1849 when she was 17. It is perported to be the novel that "Jo" wrote in "Little Women" but was never published. It seems realistic to the time period and the age of the author, full of unrequited love, honor, grace and loyalty, tears and crimson cheeks. It passed a few pleasant hours but will probably never be very popular.

Perkie, The Inheritance sounds like a treasure or a rare book find. I have never heard of the title.

I have a most wonderful old "paperback",..published in 1906..,by F.M. Lupton..City Hall Place, NewYork..There are 24 "complete Novels, Novelettes and Stories"..One by ..Mrs. Jane G. Austin.,..one by... A. Conan Doyle,..one by...Mark Twain,...and one by Louisa M. Alcott..It is titled,.."The Mummy's Curse", and was copywrited by F.M.Lupton in 1905...

Just finished reading The Chili Queen this morning. I'm still smiling!! It would make a great movie if it wasn't spoiled in the making. A great read and kept you wondering right to the last page.

Just read that Charlaine Harriss's vampire series is being optioned by the man who did Six Feet Under. I would guess that means HBO for it, but I do love the series.

Stephanie, I can't wait to see how they do "Bubba"!

Oh now that made my day. I will think on Bubba and who and how they will portray him. So funny to contemplate.

I just finished Debbie Macomber's latest Cedar Grove book 6 Rainier Drive. It was good as usual and I hate to have to wait a year for the next one. I have been a fan of hers since she first started writing for Harlequin/Silhouette 20+ years ago and she is one of my favorite authors.

Mary

Those address books are so good.

just finished a Andrea Kane book I'll Be Watching You and what a page turner that was I really enjoyed it. Just the thing for what will hopefully be the last heat of the fall.

We have had like no rain for over 3 months and its dry as tinder. Forest fires burn banns. Oh please come back rain I will never complain again.

redbud73086 I have read Debbie Macomber's books, but none lately. There is a discussion of Romance Books. Marjorie is host. Romance

I am going to have to check out Charlaine Harriss's vampire series. Currently I am reading Shrrilyn Kenyon's Dark Side of the Moon. Her books are wonderful Paranormal books. She is one of my favorite authors.

What a fun read this book was. I passed it on to my husband who rarely read a book, but he is an animal lover. He loved it too.

Read The Ferryman Will Be There by Rosemary Aubert and really enjoyed it. I think I will look for some more of her books.

Judy, A new author for me. What type of books does she write? Mystery.. dozy..... hometown...romance....

I don't pick out many books from the non-fiction new book shelves, but occasionally one will catch my eye. The latest was "Two Cats and the Woman They Own, or Lessons I Learned from My Cats," by Patti Davis. It is very short, but humorous. It tells of her adoption by a homeless cat after her dog died, and her adjustment from being a dog person to being a cat person. There are 12 Life Lessons.

Life Lesson 1

It's true that love can lead to sorrow and hurt, but avoiding love is never a good solution. Hearts are meant to be open and full, not kept safe behind walls. Pascal said, "When one does not love too much, one does not love enough."

so true and so sad and so frustrating and so so. . . vbg claire

I read a wide variety of books and literature from around the world. While studying at university I fell in love with the writings of Flannery O'Conner,Eudora Welty,William Faulkner,and Zora Neale Hurston.

Currently, I enjoy reading the work of John Dufresne.His book, Louisiana Power& Light, is a feast of all that makes this genre so appealing. Also enjoyed his, Deep Shade in Paradise.

One of the reasons I enjoy this kind of writing so much is its intense focus on mood and character - wherein the very setting becomes a character in itself.

When I went back to complete enough credits to get my degree, I decided to be an English major. As an nontradidtional age student going to classes with traditional age students, I feel I got a more rounded education than I would have gotten with night classes or weekend classes. For one class we read Flannery O'Conner,Eudora Welty,and William Faulkner. They were enjoyable to read, but I didn't continue to pursue their work.

I did however, read Hemmingway's The Old Man and the Sea out of curiosity. After reading it, I found that it had so much to say about the human condition, that I can see why it is a classic.

ABC makes no bones about it. when asked not to air it because of all the inacuracies etc. it claimed that it really was ONLY A WORK OF FICTION AFTERALl. so be it.

here is a blog about the situation that sums it up. It's been in the news for a week or so and I watched it last night without remembering all that and was convinced that everything was true. Well a lot of very crucial stuff, which turned out to have political ramificaions, wasn't. see it here it's really not real at all. JUST FICTION.

Read Message



http://tinyurl.com/syeyf

SPeaking of southern writers reminds me of A Confederacy of Dunces which a dear friend had recommendcd to me. (She was a native of New Orleans; lucky she dud not live to see the horror of Katrina.) Has anyone else read this classic?

Read it years ago.. It is a tough read.. At least I thought so. Not sure if I ever decided I liked it..

I read Confederacy of Dunces and have it on my bookshel. Need to go back and read again. It is a wonderful insight about New Orleans AT THE TIME (before Katrina). I live in Baton Rouge. JOY

I've had my name on the waiting list at the library for the new Fanny Flagg book, "Can't Wait To Get To Heaven". Finally got my notice that it's in, so I'll be picking it up today, and look forward to reading it. I need something light and happy to read for a change, and anything by Flagg is always a mood enhancer! I've read some excellent books in the past month, but all have been serious, sad, deep, etc. It will be refreshing to take a break with Fanny, and her always likeable and charming characters.

I notice that we share a liking for Southern writers. Do you enjoy Carson McCullers work, as well. The Mortgaged Heart, Ballad of the Sad Cafe, Member of the Wedding...come to mind. If I had to select only one? Ballad of the Sad Cafe would win.

Are you familiar with Lee Smith's books at all? You might enjoy them.

Mad4Reading

I read Confederacy of Dunces many years ago... what really intrigued me was the way it finally got published! (The author's mother found the manuscript after John Kennedy O'Toole had died... she sent it one of his former professors... he finally succeeded where the writer himself had failed).

Now, whenever I see the title somewhere, and since I live so close to Washington, DC, I always think it would be an apt name for the current White House administration...A Confederacy of Dunces, indeed!

In my opinion, of course... would not attempt to dissuade any of W's followers....

Carson McCullers work, as well. The Mortgaged Heart, Ballad of the Sad Cafe, yes a long time ago.

very nice writer although I don't remember much. the trouble with getting this old is that EVERYTHING is a "long time ago". vbg

Thanks all for the new/old author names. I'll be checking them out. Currently reading Alice's Tulips by Sandra Dallas. Different and interesting book. I didn't think I'd finish at the start, but I'm into it now and can't stop. I do enjoy the books set in the south, but this one is another favorite....mid west in the 1800s. I do enjoy my history in this form.

Sandra Dallas is one good story teller. Try The Chili Queen.

Mad4reading: Yes, I love almost all books with a Southern theme. Have not read (or heard of) Lee Smith----will check it out. I think it was you who suggested Louisiana Power & Light. Got it from the library and am enjoying it immensely. May try get another of Dufresne's books---Deep Shade in Paradise. Are you acquainted w/James Lee Burke---am sure you are. JOY

Mad4reading----I agree--Confederacy of Dunces could surely refer to the administration in Washington!!!!! Joy

Mrs.Sherlock, Just finished The Chili Queen. That lead me to others by Sandra Dallas, but that one was the best! I'm still smiling about that yarn. Mary

So glad you liked it!

I finished Persian Pickle Queen and enjoyed it. But must confess as an easterner that the life style was totally foreign to me.. Were people once that insular??

I see that this book was discussed on SN about 5 years ago. I'm so impressed with it, after reading it twice, that I plan to delve into the archives, and find out what you all had to say about it back then?

I would definitely recommend this book, but I hasten to say that it is NOT light reading! It takes a real committment, but is really worth making the effort. Once you get into the rhythm of the two separate stories, you'll get hooked. First time around I skimmed the secondary "Blind Assassin" story, which was intersperced throughout the actual story. So when I was finished with the book, I realized I had missed alot, and went back immediately and reread the whole book over again. The second time around was even better than the first.

The story is being told by Iris, an 83 year old woman, looking back on her life, and the choices that she felt she had to make when she was young. Choices that resulted in the suicide of her younger sister. (Not a spoiler: you learn that fact at the very beginning of the book.) Some of the comments made by Iris, about growing old, are absolutely brilliant! I don't know how old Margaret Atwood is in reality, but she must be getting on in years to be able to have so much insight as to the thoughts and feelings of an aging woman. Her comments are amazingly right-on, I thought.

Now, time to read something much lighter - "Can't Wait To Get To Heaven", by Fannie Flagg.

I like Margaret Atwood very much.. But she is truly not a light read. She does however have true things to say, especially about aging.

I read in the paper today that 8 of Agatha Christie's mystery stories will be publlished at a price of $12 each.

This is a new novel by Steve Yarbrough..It is set in Mississippi and for those of you who love stories set in the south and southern authors , here's a good one for you.........

From Publishers Weekly Yarbrough returns to Loring, Miss. (setting of his acclaimed Prisoners of War and Visible Spirits), to examine the intersecting lives of two contemporary family men in this sensitive but powerful smalltown portrait of sex, religion and other human passions. Following an explosive sex scandal, successful physician Pete Barrington flees California, with wife Angela and their teenage daughter in tow, for the Southern town he left 25 years before. There he encounters Alan Depoyster, another native son, now managing a Piggly Wiggly and caring for a wife and teenager of his own. Alan, a devout Christian, holds a grudge from their high school days, when Alan's mother carried on an affair with Pete. Shortly thereafter, Alan's dad deserted them, and Pete escaped Loring on a Fresno State football scholarship. As circumstances bring the Barringtons and Depoysters closer, and evidence of Pete and Angela's continuing sexual indiscretions come to light, rage and jealousy lead Alan to shocking measures, setting up the book's suspenseful, shattering second half. Yarbrough gives each character in his slow-burning drama the complex emotional scars of broken marriage and, more importantly, the space and voice with which to explore them. (June) Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Marilyne: I found Blind Assassin to be a thoroughly absorbing read - have read it a couple of times and still have unfinished business with it - Next time will read it together with the archived discussion on SN

If you enjoy Attwood would might also like her Alias Grace - different from the Assassin but just as absorbing.

gumtree - I'm always pleased to hear from someone who feels the same way I do about a book. (or a movie.) I took a quick look at the archives, and it appears that there weren't very many readers who participated in the "Blind Assassin" discussion. Of those who did, the comments were mixed, and they didn't seem to be in agreement on certain points - especially the relationship between the two sisters and the two men. (Alex and Richard).

I'm curious as to whether you liked "The Poisonwood Bible", by Barbara Kingsolver? That's another book that needs to be read more than once, and gets better with each reading. Something new is revealed to me every time I read it.

Marilyne I've not read Poisonwood Bible or anything at all by Kingsolver - maybe I'll find time over the coming summer.

My friends here are quite divided over Blind Assassin, some couldn't finish it and hated the interpolated 'Assassin' story or had strong feelings against one or other of the main characters. I must say that I was somewhat confronted by the'Assassin' story and yet it is so important to the overall construction of the novel and contains much allegorical material. I will definitely read it again one of these days.

The Attwood story I found most disturbing is, of course, 'The Handmaid's Tale' which holds such dire warnings for us all and illustrates just how easily a group (in this case, women) can be disenfranchised and how quickly fear overtakes a community so that no-one will stand and help.- She is a brilliant writer.

Alias Grace is one of my all time favorite novels. Have reread it several times. For some reason it sets up a bong inside my body.. Very few novels do that.

Yes this is certainly a book to keep. I read somewhere that Atwood had previously written about Grace Marks - poetry and then a TV script which were based on the journals of Susanna Moodie who had visited Grace in prison - Apparently the first scene of the book came to Atwood suddenly out of the blue (so to speak) and then she had to find a character to fit -and decided upon a book about Grace Marks. Atwood made the joking remark to the effect that Grace had been very dissatisfied with Atwood's previous efforts and wanted her to have another go at this story.

I read most of Atwood,, not all. There have been a few I just did not like, but Grace is wonderful and the Handmaiden is haunting. Living in a red state, I sometimes think that this is what they have in mind for us..

The Poe novella of The Mystery of Marie Roget will begin Sunday, October 1st.

Pat explained that she will use the same heading that was used for The Murders in the Rue Morgue, which ended with post #154

Pat will be mentioning this novella in the Book Bytes. We both will be providing a link for you to follow.

Bill H

Thanks for the heads up about Fanny Flagg's new book, "Can't Wait To Get To Heaven", Marilyne. Have you read "Standing in the Rainbow", written in 2002, about the same small Missouri town? I hope Neighbor Dorothy is back.

I just finished a finely crafted book by Elizabeth Cox, "The Slow Moon". The title is taken from Tennyson's "Ulysses": ' The long day wanes: the slow moon climbs: the deep moans round with many voices. Come, my friends, 'tis not too late to seek a newer world.' The quote was instantly recognizable, as I made a valiant attempt to memorize the whole poem when I was in high school!

Cox's book takes place in South Pittsburgh, Tennessee and is the story of a brutal rape and the impact it had on the people of the town. The characters are introduced, and then we are taken carefully through each life so that we come to understand how the individual became the person who played the part she/he did. I was completely engrossed from the first sentence.

On a much lighter note, I love The Cottage Tales of Beatrix Potter by Susan Wittig Albert. The latest is "The Tale of Cuckoo Brow Wood", and again Beatrix Potter solves the mystery and endears herself to the people of Far Sawtry. I get a kick out of the animals, many of whom can read and write and love to sit in front of their hearths with a cheerful fire and a cup of tea. Fairies and dwelves (half dwarf and half elf) play a major role, also. A fun read.

Perkie : Hi - The slow moon - As you say, instantly recognisable. Like you I memorised 'Ulysses' as a child and can still rattle it off. I love that poem and have found it can be very soothing to run through it in my mind especially when I'm agitated or upset about something - seems to have a calming effect on me.

gumtree: I do that also - read something or recite something to myself when I'm upset or agitated. In recent years, when things are looking particularly bleak, I get out my copy of "The Hours", and read the last two pages in the book. Something about those final paragraphs are very uplifting. I love that book, the movie, and the music. I often put on the soundtrack CD when I go to bed at night. It's very soothing.

Perkie: Yes, Neighbor Dorothy does make a brief appearance in "Can't Wait to Get to Heaven"! It's a good book, but I didn't like it as much as "Standing in the Rainbow". "Rainbow" took me back to a simpler time and place. Definitely a nostalgic feel-good book.

Marilyne: You made me get out 'The Hours' to read those last pages. and I ended up browsing the book for quite a while. I haven't read it for quite a while - thought the film was brilliant - for me Marianne Moore and Ed Harris stole the show along with Phillip Glass' music.

I watched the movie of "Contact" with Jodie Foster about a year ago, then recently noticed the audio book and tried that. As well as I can remember, the movie was faithful to the main story. The book was able to flesh out Eleanor Arroway's life. It also had a lot more about the technical parts of astronomy, physics and mathematics than I ever wanted to know. All in all, however, I am glad I listened.

Cynthia Harrod-Eagles writes a nice crime series about London police detectives. She also has written a series which follows a fictional family from the 1400's. The first, The Founding, takes place in York. The Morelands establish a dynasty and are caught up in the political upheavals of England's kings. Here are Plantagenets, Woodvilles, etc. She explains the Richard III story in a way that is new to me. Royal bastards come and go, heads roll, battles wage, the Morelands contrive. The next volume gives us Henry VIII.

I am just finishing up a terrific book while trying to create a new computer. I believe Rosie had this author on the View a couple of weeks ago. It is called the Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls. This is a true story and if I had the time I would have read it in one sitting absolutely mind boggling. I would strongly recommend it.

I have enjoyed reading Cynthia Harrod-Eagles.

Orchestrated Death ©1991 I finished reading it on on April 23, 1993. It is A Bill Slider Mystery that I rated Very Good.

Death Watch I finished reading it on July 15, 1993. I don't have a rating or © for it.

I like her Bill SLider books although the brits seem to be very slow to follow up leads. They'll get a clue and three days later they're knocking on the door. Other than that the characters are engaging and she has some sly puns that can slip right past me if I'm not on my toes.

Judy Laird - I also really enjoyed "The Glass Castle". I praised it in this discussion about a year ago, but never saw anyone else mention reading it until now. That was long before Jeannette Walls was a guest on Oprah. After that the book took off and became a bestseller. It deserves to be! I got hooked on the very first page, where the now adult Jeannette, is sitting in a taxi in NYC, on her way to a fancy event, and she looks out the window and sees her mother "rooting through a dumpster"!

gumtree - I know that "The Hours" will always be high up on my list of favorite books and movies (and CD's). Something about it really gets to me every time I read or see it. Although the movie was changed slightly in a few parts, it pretty much stayed true to the book. I just loved the way the screenplay coordinated the three stories so perfectly. I agree with you, that Julianne Moore and Ed Harris were awesome! They were both nominated for supporting Oscars, but didn't receive them. I was also impressed with Merle Streep, and thought she was perfect, as was Nicole Kidman as Virginia Woolf. Of the three stories, I liked the Woolf story the least, but it was still great.

Glass Castle sounds interesting.

Stephanie I guarantee knowing you a little from the Isle of Palms if you get The Glass Castle you would read it in one sitting. I finished it last night and am thinking about reading it over again. It defiantly will stay in my library.

"The Glass Castle", by Jeannette Walls, has a string of holds on it already, so it will be awhile before I can get my hands on it. It sounds like it is worth the wait.

Anne Tyler is one of my favorite authors, and she didn't let me down with "Digging to America". It is the story of two families in Baltimore who adopt Korean infant girls who arrive at the airport on the same day. The two families, though very different, are drawn together through their daughters and the interrelationships are complex and fascinating. One day the girls are 'digging to China' in the back yard and want to know if Chinese girls like to 'dig to America', hence the title.

I love Anne Tyler and will get Digging when it comes out in paper.. She is close to my heart since I was born and brought up in Delaware and Baltimore used to be an old haunt of mine.

"A Spot of Bother" by Mark Haddon.........He is the author of "the curious incident of the dog in the night time"......This story is funny, and sad at the same time......worth your reading I think......

The Dog in the Night was really fascinating reading. There is so much research these days into autism. Temple Grandin is a well know autistic author (Thinking in Pictures and Animals in Transition) who has helped the rest of us appreciate the skewed world autistic victims have to live in. Haddon's new book is going on my list.

"The Hatbox Baby" by Carrie Brown is a wonderful book. The story takes place during the 1933 Chicago World's Fair. The Fan dancer draws the biggest crowd at the fair. The Infantorium comes in second for attracting the most people. Carrie Brown, the author, writes a heartfelt story. In that time, the early or middle twentieth century, the medical world didn't know how to treat very tiny babies born before their time. Thankfully, for babies and parents, times have changed. The medical world continues to learn how to protect and save the tiniest baby.

The Hatbox Baby

Mrs. Sherlock, I loved The Curious Dog in The Night-time by Mark Haddon. Do you think this new book is going to be good too. I hope so.

Hats.......I have read the book and it is very good in my opinion...I didn't say much about it as don't want to ruin it for those of you who may want to read it.......very clever writing.....goes fast......

Thanks Tigerlily, It's very hard to put down. It raises a lot of questions too.

I am in somewhat of a quandary about the Miss Julia series by Ann B. Ross. I just finished the second one, for me and in the series, "Miss Julia Takes Over". The stories are light, well paced and well written, but I hate Miss Julia. She is so sure that she is right all of the time, so bossy, and so snobbish. At the end, there seemed to be some indication that she would start to loosen up, so maybe I will give her another try in a few months. It reminds me of the Mary Tyler Moore show. I loved the show and hated Mary Tyler Moore, I know Miss Julia and Mary Tyler Moore are supposed to be humorous, but not to me.

I've read two of them and am stuck on the third. she seems to be coming around a bit but I can't wait for it to happen. we are both too old. I don't like her either.

so off to the the used paperback book exchange for something, well just something. . . .claire

I guess Miss Julia is funny to me because she hates so much the know-it-all attitude in others. She tries so hard to be always right, always in charge, but her heart gets in her way and she winds up being a tub of butter. She "doth protest too much" methinks.

Perkie, I love Miss Julie's books. I left off with the wedding one. I never have trouble reading a whole Miss Julie book.

I like Miss Julia because she's not afraid to get involved. She makes bumbling mistakes. Still, she does have a good heart. Miss Julia wants everyone to be happy. I guess some people might call her meddlesome. In the first book, I wasn't sure about liking her. Then, I began to like her.

Hello, I am an Italian writer and published a book in Italian and English (http://www.lulu.com/content/441991).

Wish I could have other people' opinions about it.

Here is a short summary of the book,hope you will find it interesting:

"This is the short trip of an Artist within his own life-story,looking for his dormant talent and for the strong emotions that change human beings.

The story contains excerpts of old poems (most of which won first place in domestic and international poetry competitions) that serve as windows, using which is possible to look at the past and recover old feelings.

During this trip, that will lead the protagonist to explore himself, his value as a human being and the value of his life mission, the man will remember the sense of emptiness that surprises an artist after he creates something; the limits and merits of talent, which is seen as a backwash you can walk on.

He will travel over again the brief encounters that "carve a niche for themselves in the soul" and stay there for ever; the traumatic mental crossing from childhood to adulthood, the ancient sensation that his scream is "nothing within the silence".

The three stops of "Train of Thought" tell about the protagonist's journey "within the visible and not visible", celebrating the beauty of life, of the individual, and the caducity of certainties, thrown away by fault of or thanks to that small, slight pain that someday in the past reached him and changed his horizons".

Thank you and sorry if I am doing a sort of "self-promotion" here. It's quite hard for a new author to be taken into consideration!

Elisabetta elisabetta_benedetti@virgilio.it

(www.elisabettabenedetti.com)

Elisabetta: Your book sounds interesting. Are you an artist? Have you undergone such a journey, literal or figurative? I wish you success and will look for your book.

Elisben, just your post is beautifully written. I bet the story you tell is fantastic. I will try to get to your website.

Thank you to both of you for saying that! Yes, I am a poet but had a period in my life when I suddendly stopped writing.Guess this is because in some situations words seem not to be enough to express your feelings. It is a figurative journey,the protagonist travels through different phases of his own life. Let me know if you want to have a read - will be happy to send you the file

Elisabetta

Somewhere here I read mention of Alias Grace by Margaret Atwood. Well, I have just finished this book and it moved me profoundly yet on an intellectual rather than an emotional level. Was there a discussion here about it? If not, I think it deserves to be discussed. (As if we are running out of books to discuss!)

Mrs Sherlock can you tell us a little bit about the book?? Thanks Judy

Grace was a sixteen year old domestic, immigrant from Ireland. She had worked in Toronto, getting her training keeping house, when she was hired to go to a remote rural house. Within three weeks of her arrival, the master of the house and his paramour housekeeper were dead and she was fleeing with the hired hand to the US. The story is about her conviction as a murderess who was condemned to be hanged but her sentence was commuted to life in prison. Atwood takes the bare bones of this real crime and constructs a remarkable story of what Grace's life might have been. She tells it in such a way that this reader was never able to predict where the tale was going. And these characters are very vivid so I'm sure that they will be with me for quite some time before they get shoved back in my memory and forgotten.

Grace was a real person and ended up in the US actually. I loved the book and would participate in the discussion. An interesting book.. But then Margaret Atwood does that. She sort of sucks you in and then turns you upside down. Fun.

Thanks I will have to send to that book.

I am late in reading this wonderful book by Khaled Hosseini.....It may be one of the best, if not the best book I have read this year......It was the "one read" selection of our library last year but I just never got around to reading it.........I could not put it down......treat yourselves , those of you who have not read this book.......

I certainly agree, Kite runner is a classic.

The Kiterunner is a classic. I agree.

I finished Mary Mary by Patterson yesterday and enjoyed it. I miss Milo tho.

Then read Maggie Shayne Darker Then Midnight it was a page turner.

_The Hatbox Baby_ was recently recommended here. I finished it a few days ago. Talk about a fast read with an interesting plot. Thanks for the recommendation.

Kathy

I picked up a book off of the New Books shelf because it looked interesting. It is called "You're Not You", a first novel by Michelle Wildgen. It is the story of a college woman who is tired of working as a waitress to help put herself through school and tries being a caregiver for a woman with ALS, Lou Gerhig disease. The student ends up giving good care but getting much more from her employer, including learning how to cook. Well written, and a bit of a tear-jerker towards the end but finishes on an upbeat note.

A completely different kind of book is "The Monkey Wrench Gang" by Edward Abbey. If you can overlook the foul language and scenes I can only describe as earthy, it is an excellent commentary on the destruction of the Western landscape by miners. The Monkey Wrench Gang of four people tries to halt 'progress' by blowing up bridges and wrecking large machines. Their efforts come to naught, but they gave all they had for awhile and I couldn't help pulling for them even while knowing it was hopeless.

by T.C. Boyle.......this book was the pick for the one read program from our library for this summer........It is a page turner....another one you might not want to miss.........very disturbing in a way, sad in another. a book about the haves and the have not's........

I have never read a book by T.C. Boyle. I will definitely get this one from the library.

Hats.....these books that make me re-think old positions are very disturbing!!!!!!!!!!!! ( tongue in cheek)

TigerLily, I know what you mean. I like the books you pick. If books don't change us in some way, are they worth reading? I like having my thoughts shook up and tossed around.

Dear Hats......you are so right........go to non fiction and look at what I have posted about my latest read over there......lol....these wonderful books and the internet have changed much of my thinking over the past several years..........

so off to the nonfiction department. It's an easy read so far and in line with my political position so I'm happy. . . .claire

I see that Naslund, the author of _Ahab's Wife_ has a new book out - _Abundance: A Novel of Marie Antoinette_.

Kathy

I loved Ahabs wife, so have the new one on my to be read list. I am reading a light light thing called "If you lived here, I would know you". Its by a NPR columnist. She lives in Haines, Alaska, which is a tiny litle town that has to be gotten to by plane or boat. Fun and remarkably similar in many ways to the teeny little town I grew up in.. My teeny little town is now a suburb of a nearby city, but when I was growing up.. WE had one policeman ( all the kids had to do was know his routine in the car), all volunteer fireman and the fireladies auxiliary did all of the helping the families after a fire. We always had lots of church and fire suppers and generally knew everyone in town. No more for me, but she still lives where you can do this..No idea how much is real and how much is sort of stretched.

Hi Shirley - I have not read Heather Lende's book, but am a faithful reader of her weekly column in the Anchorage Daily News. My guess is that not much is stretched, as that is life in a small town.

I, too, liked Ahab's Wife. Actually Naslund has written a number of books.

Kathy

Kathy,, dont you live in Homer? Is that small or large? We were in Alaska about 10 years ago on the inner passage, but did not stop in Haines. I honestly thought that you couldnt, but maybe you can now.

Hi Stephanie - yes, I do live in Homer, a city of about 5,000 serving an outside area of about another 5,000. It is a great place to live. I love it. Re: Haines. I don't think the cruise ships go there, but the ferryboat does, Haines is well-known for its massive gathering of the bad eagle. It is a little place.

Kathy

Liked it very much. It talks about the trauma that can be placed on a private citizen when an errant reporter decides to make up a story about her "relationship" w/ a newly appointed Cardinal. Altho it's not a new book, it certainly is appropos our current media situation. Delinsky does a great job of talking about family relationships and fleshing out the characters of her books. I've been able to relate to almost all of her stories......jean

Did you ever read "Between, Georgia", Judy Laird? I just finished the audio book version. I found it to be an interesting story, even though the only character I liked was the deaf and blind doll maker. The book was full of anger and revenge, which became tiresome and when it was somewhat dissipated at the end, I didn't really care. I did like the references to Athens and Atlanta, which Between is actually between. I must have passed it on my way from Atlanta to the University in Athens some 60 years ago, but do not remember it. I read somewhere that the author, Joshilyn Jackson, has never been to Between!

Just coming down to the finish of "Welcome to the World Baby Girl" by Fanny Flagg. I have so enjoyed her books, but started this one with some doubts as to whether or not I could get into it.....I have and it's another winner. Just picked up The Glass Castle and am eager to start. As I read the summary, I couldn't help but compare the situation between this book and Dena, in Welcome to the World......children with a hard start in life.

Macou33, I loved "Welcome to the Real World, Baby Girl." Rarely do I see other readers mention it. I am glad you loved it too.

I like Fannie Flag.. She is interesting although not being a midwesterner my childhood was a lot different.

I think I mentioned in this discussion that I read and enjoyed Fannie Flagg's newest book, Can't Wait to Get to Heaven? It was an enjoyable story, with some of her regular characters, returning again. I didn't like it as much as "Standing in the Rainbow", but both are uplifting and leave you feeling good. The only book of hers that I havn't read is "Welcome to the World Baby Girl", which I plan to read soon.

Speaking of babies! I'm just starting "The Hatbox Baby", and looks like it's going to be a good one.

I'm not a midwesterner either but did live in a small town and do now. I suppose that is why I so enjoy the stories of the southern small towns.

I know I saw Elizabeth Berg's books mentioned here. I read Until the Real Thing Comes Along and loved it. What else by her is good? I'm also reading Dorothea Benton Frank and loving her books also; Sullivan's Island and Isle of Palms (I like Palms better). Any reccommendations? Thanks.

BTW, I've read so many good books after they were mentioned here. Keep the reviews coming!

I just finished reading "We Are All Welcome Here", by Elizabeth Berg. IMO, it was GREAT-----I could not put it down after starting it. Of course, I am a Southerner and very familiar w/the locale of the book. I think you will also enjoy it. JOY

is wonderful I've loved what I've read and I haven't read those two. thanks for the heads up. . .claire

Winsum, I agree. Elizabeth Berg is wonderful. I think my favorite one by her is "Never Change."

Thanks, I've put them on reserve.

the list currently of liz berg novels. I think I've read four or five of them.

 
elizabeth berg books 

Novels 
Durable Goods (1993) 
Talk Before Sleep (1994) this one read 
Range of Motion (1995)this one read 
Pull of the Moon (1996)this one read 
Joy School (1997) 
What We Keep (1998) 
Until the Real Thing Comes Along (1999) 
Open House (2000)this one read 
Never Change (2001) 
True to Form (2002) 
Say When (2003) 
The Art of Mending (2004) 
The Year of Pleasures (2005) 
We Are All Welcome Here (2006) 
The Handmaid and the Carpenter (2006) 
Dream When You're Feeling Blue (2007) 

Mrs. Sherlock, Were you here when we talked about Anita Shreve's books. I read "Sea Glass", "The Pilot's Wife" and "Resistance" and enjoyed all immensely. If you Google her name you can link to reviews of each.

I too enjoyed E. Berg's stories.

Thank you, I had forgotten about Sea Glass. I am in the mood to read that one. I haven't read it yet.

macou33: Thanks. I've put those on my list.

I liked Shreves.. The Pilots wife, but did not like several of the others.. Oh well. I do like some of Berg as well. The ARt of Mending was quite nice, but a little strange to me. I grew up in a small town, but thank heaven, not a Fannie Flagg town. Could not bear that sort of close scrutiny..

Perkie I have started Between Georgia and am enjoying it. It is a hard cover so can't read it in bed but it seem to be good.

I have a whole list of southern authors to look for, too many books and to little time.

JUdy, Lee Child is one of the best southern writers around. As well s Sharon McCrumb, who writes mysteries but very very southern ones..

Judy said, ".... too many books and to little time". So true Judy. My motto is "one book at a time", though just now I have both Welcome to the World Baby Girl and The Glass Castle going at the same time. The Glass Castle is paper back and more portable than the other. Seems to me that "Welcome to the World.." has a powerful message tossed into the later part of the book and THE GLASS CASTLE!!!! WOW. How very lucky some of us have been to have just the run of the mill and just a little disfunctional families....I say that with tongue in cheek. How do kids like these ever make it out alive??

I had to put "The Glass Castle" on hold at my library.

I just finished The Hat Box Baby, and really enjoyed it! The only problem I had was the ending. It seemed unclear to me, in that nothing was resolved? I don't mind whether a book has a sad or a happy ending, just so I know exactly what happened to all the characters! In this case, it seemed kinda murky?? Anyone else?

A couple of months ago, I read The Memory Keeper's Daughter, by Kim Edwards, but neglected to ever comment on it in here. I kept waiting for enough time to write about it and give it the accolades that it deserves! But now I'm about 10 books further along, and can't remember the details too well. I do want to say that I thought the story was very different and very touching. I still have the book, and plan to read it over again when I have nothing else on tap. It has been on the NYT Bestseller List for many months now.

The third book is called The Highest Tide, by Jim Lynch. Both my husband and I read it, and he liked it as much as I did! It's what reviewers call a "coming of age story". The main character, Miles, is a young teenage boy, living in Tacoma Washington, with his still married but unhappy/dysfunctional parents. They both love him, but have a difficult time understanding or relating to his unique personality. Besides being a good story, there is fascinating information about sea life, tides, the ocean, etc. in this book. Miles, is obsessed with Rachel Carson, author of "The Sea Around Us". I had forgotten about that old book, but realized that I still have it around here somewhere, and plan to find it and read it again. I'm sure I'll appreciate it much more at my age, than I did when it came out back in the 60's.

Interesting concept of writing using the letters home and the journal to tell the "runaway wife's" story. So much of what she talks about i can identify with.....husbands' not paying attention, their getting to make the final decision most of the time, the 'fear,' wondering what the dgt thinks, etc. I think i like the stream of consciousness writing, but i have to think about it......I've enjoyed the three or four others of hers that i've read......jean

I put a hold on "The Memory Keeper's Daughter", by Kim Edwards, Marilyne. The review in Publisher's Weekly was not totally favorable, but it sounds interesting and with your interest in it, I will wait impatiently while the 24 ahead of me read the 15 copies in the library system.

I thoroughly enjoyed "The Highest Tide", by Jim Lynch. I liked the boy, Miles O'Malley, and since I have always been interested in tidal life, his trips onto the tidelands was fascinating, as was his observations of the people around him.

My latest book was a parody on "Gone With The Wind" titled "The Wind Done Gone". It was narrated by a woman who was supposedly the daughter of Mammy and Scarlett's father, born at the same time as Scarlett so Mammy could act as Scarlett's wet nurse. In the parody, Scarlett was called Other, Mr. O'Hara was Planter and owned Cotton Farm and the house Tata. Mrs. O'Hara was Lady. Ashley was Dreamy Gentleman from Twelve Slaves Strong as Oaks, and Melanie was Mealy Mouth. It is told in journal form and jumps around a bit. It was mildly interesting.

This should be an interesting read right now. Yesterday's paper had a short article about the threat of the Asian Carp on the fisheries of the great lakes and even beyond.

Is this where we were talking about Southern writers? I saw the name "Lee Child" so I picked up one at the library. Must be some mistake as this is a thriller about a mysterious kidnap of an FBI agent in Chicago; she winds up in Montana with a right-wing milita. Very exciting but not one whiff of southern. Where did I go wrong?

Author Lee Child's Official Website: Information on best-selling writer Lee Child's novels, tour schedule and more. http://www.leechild.com/ – 11k –

Oops.. Southern writer would be Lee Smith.. One of those senior moments.

Thanks for answering my question. Lee Child is now on my list for thrillers. A big plus: I've got a new author for southern. I'm way ahead!

I just bookmarked Lee Smith's Homepage.
www.leesmith.com/
You can listen to her read from one of her books! A new author for me.

GinnyAnn, thank you.

New novel from Claire Messud........All of her books have been up for awards and listed as "most notable' in the N.Y. Times Book Review....It's a book about three friends and how their lives are intertwined......disturbing in some ways but a really good read.......long........of course I love long novels with lots of good characters............

I have never read one of her books. Thank you for mentioning a new author, at least for me.

Hats.......thanks for posting that link......I have lost my tiny URL link.......will have to get it back..........

Tigerlily, you are welcome.

I love Maureen Corrigan's reviews. Thanks, Tigerlily3 and Hats, I;ve put it on my list. BTW, Ahab's Wife was mentioned here and the library came through. I must say it is compelling and very unusual. Never can predict where the narrative is going so full of surprises. Great atmosphere, great characterization. What a writer is Sena Nasland.

Mrs. Sherlock, Sena Naslund has written another book titled Four Spirits. I want to read "Ahab's Wife" and "Four Spirits."

Four Spirits

And, Naslund has a brand new book out - Abundance: a Novel of Marie Antoinette.

Kathy

Marie Antoinette is EVERYWHERE!! Books, movies, and magazines..

Kathy, thank you. I didn't know about that one.

Abundance

Putney, I know. A lot of people are even masquerading as Marie Antoinette for Halloween. People are very interested in her life.

Vanity Fair, the one with George Clooney on the cover, has an excerpt from the latest by Erik Larson who wrote the Cevil in the White City. It's called Thunderstruck; it's about a sea captain's suspicion that one of his passengers was Dr. Crippen who was attempting to escape to Canada after killing his wife. My library hasn't received it yet so I've ordered Isaac's Storm: A man, a time and the deadliest storm in history.

Mrs Sherlock that sounds like a good book another for my list. Tigerlilly thanks for your suggestion about the Emporers Children. I can't even begin to keep up. Am now working almost full time and just finsihed a big task for the office here at h ome that took me 6 hours. Yuck

I got carried away yesterday doing clickables. Thank goodness that mood is gone for awhile. I am on to something else.

Tigerlily, I love the photo of you and your pet. My cat is black and white.

Oh Hats if you only knew how sweet she is! Boston Terrier and her sister is Jack Russel terrier not quite so sweet!

Oh, I bet she is as sweet as pie. What would we do without our pet??? They are family.

Speaking of pets, my 1 yr-old indoor black cat, Beast, got out Thurs. night. It was dark but we searched for hours, calling. Took his favorite mousie and squeaked; neighboring dog got excited cause that's his anthem, too. Made posters, etc. 25 hours later he meows outside my window. I've never been so bereft or so happy. He's a scamp!

My cat is black and white. Her name is Boots. Boy, she knows how to make every wish known. I just moved a pile of books because she couldn't get up in the window.

Alexander Poe's novella "The Purloined Letter" will begin Wednesday, November 1st.

You can read the story on line if you wish by clicking the link below.

The Purloined letter

The graphic is Poe. Not me.

Bill H

I am deeply moved by Elizabeth Berg's Never Change. Can't wait to read another by this author.

I read 2 Eliz. Berg books this weekend. "We are all welcome here" and "Year of Pleasures" Both good. Have about 4 more of here on order. Really like her.

JeanneP

I loved "Year of Pleasures" too. I am reading "Chili Queen" on the side. I am really enjoying it. Mrs. Sherlock thank you for recommending it. I will have to look for "We Are All Welcome Here." I don't want to miss an Elizabeth Berg title. Her books are small. It's unbelievable how much empathy and meaning she can pack in her books. I love Elizabeth Berg.

Me too Hat's.......have read them all....she is one of the few who write many books and still have fresh things to say..........

The discussion of Edgar Allan Poe's "The Purloined Letter" is now opened for comments from the readers. If you wish to participate in this discussion the link below will take you the forum.

The Purloined Letter Forum

Bill H

Purely by chance I read Elizabeth Berg's Never Change and Dorothea Benton Frank's Full of Grace back to back. Each has the same devastating medical condition at its core. Berg's book may have spoiled me for Frank's but there was a world of difference between the two treatments (pardon the pun). The result is that Berg has risen higher in my estimation and Frank has fallen. Anyone else read both these books? I'm curious to see if my reaction is only mine.

I enjoyed "Sullivan Island" by Dorothea Benton Frank. Then, I read "Shem Creek." I really, really loved "Shem Creek. I could smell the water and see the trees, taste the restaurant food. I could feel South Carolina's atmosphere all around me. Yes, "Shem Creek" is my favorite book by Dorothea Benton Frank.

Hats: I haven't read Shem Creek; I'll put it on my library reserve list today. thanks.

Mrs. Sherlock, I loved it.

Hi! Bill, a great discussion "A Purloined Letter" should be, good luck.

After you are through you should come and join us in the December one: DEPTHS OF GLORY by Irving Stone. It is a biographical novel about the life and work of Camille Pissarro, the French Impressionist. If you like to discuss about art and about France this is your chance.

Everybody is invited to join us. The book was first published in 1985, so it should be easy to find.

Éloïse

Someone somewhere here on Senior Net recommended "Me Emma" by Elizabeth Flock, which I read on her recommendation. Definitely worthwhile read. Has anyone here read it?

Dennis Lehane has a collection of short stories titled "Coronado" (a Southern town not the explorer). They are interesting but not compelling with many not-so-nice characters and some rough language.

Today I went to my bookstore and brought home Susan Wiggs Summer at Willow Lake. Also many people have been speaking of Elizabeth Berg and I was sure I had read her books now I am thinking not. I got The Year of Pleasures,Opem House and What We Keep. As I know refer to the great stupid computer crash of Sept 2006 and aquiring EX Professional I lost among other things my software where I kept track for at least 8 years everybook I read. Now it is gone. I still have many of my keepers here and it will take a lot of time to put them back on the list.

So much rain and so many leaves, why do I have all these trees??

Spomeone mentioned http://www.librarything.com/ I looked at it and its well worth pursuing if you are interested in finding books cataglouging your books or most anything else.

This particularly was of interest to me as I spent a good part of the weekend re-cataloging all my favorite books and the keeper I have here in my house. You know I had the great crash haha It was quite a trip, one book brought back memories, a signed by the author copy of Up Island by Siddons, it was sent to be as a gift many years ago by Ginny. Then there was books given to me by my husband in St Croix then there were MAM's books and my most favorite Peachtree Road by Siddon's. I have all her books also all of Belva Plain's book. Then we got to Heilbert, May Sarton and the list goes on.

Whats your favorite book of all time.

Stephanie whats the authors name that wrote the mystery books in the canals in Venice.?? They must go on my list.

Judy Laird - About Peachtree Road ... I'm wondering if that's the Siddons book that I read and liked so much about 15 years ago? It took place in Atlanta, in the Buckhead neighborhood? The storyline was about a wealthy family there, whose poor relatives come to live with them? The main characters were the wealthy young man, and his wild and illfated girl cousin?

Gosh--so many books, so many favorites. It would be hard to pick "one" favorite, but there are three books in the past five years or so that I have enjoyed so much that I have given to several other people...

1) Bill Bryson's "The Mother Tongue." Who knew etymology could be such fun?

2) "Tuesdays with Morey" (I am assuming everyone has read or at least knows this book)

3) David Gerrold's "The Martian Child," about a science fiction writer adopting a young boy. I don't know if I like this book so much because David is a friend or if it's really that good--but everyone I have given it to has been moved by it.

At various former times in my life favorite books have been "Marjorie Morningstar" (until I grew up and had my own romantic relationships), and Hawaii (which I haven't read in a long time, but I've read it several times)

Marilyne Peachtree Roadcame out in 1988. The book says that Peachtree Road is Siddon's love letter to Atlanta. Your right about the story I think its about time for me to read it again. I believe its the first time that I knew anything about polution of rivers ect. I just opened the book and the print is so small it scared me WOW

Bev I like your list. One of my alltime books is Don't stop the Carnival by Herman Woulk. Most people don't seem to know it, but if you have spent anytime in the carribien or lived there its the greatest book

Judy L Sure was a good book,..and so TRUE..I spent a few years islanding back when there wasn't a single stop light on St Croix..I loved it..

Not familiar with "Don't Stop the Carnival," but I really enjoy Woulk's other works. I will have to look for it.

Putney I am trying to think but I don't think there was any stop lights when I lived there. I do remember the nightmare highway coming out of the airport with people in rental cars driving on the wrong side of the road. Frank that owned Frank's resturant was seriously injured as I remember on that road in a car going the wrong way.

Harriet ARnow's The Dollmaker - her writing of that Applachian dialect was so good. Jane Fonda did a tv movie of it (on TBS after she married Ted Turner, maybe that's why she married him - TIC)

The other is "The Prince of Tides" by Pat Conroy - sooooo southern and so complicated. Nick Nolte was perfect in the movie, but Barbra S didn't make it as the psychiatrist for me.......jean

Oh I forgot "Prince of Tides." So beautifully written. The only other book I've read which made me go "wow" just about the actual writing was Steinbeck's "East of Eden."

My favorite books are ones that I've read at least two times, and often three or more times! Over the decades, there are probably about 10 books that fall into that category for me. I can't say which one I like the best, just that I want them to always be there for me to enjoy over and over again.

I was a teenager when I first read A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, and Gone With the Wind for the first time. I loved them then and I love them now! I never tire of either one, and likely have read both at least 10 times over the past 60 years. Two others are To Kill a Mockingbird and The Grapes of Wrath. I always get something new out of both of those.

The Prince of Tides, also falls into that category. I think Pat Conroy reached his peak with "Tides", and hasn't done anything of much quality since. I still read his new books when they're released, but can't say I have been impressed.

My recent favorites are, The Poisonwood Bible, another one that gets better with every reading. Also The Hours, and Empire Falls.

When were you in St Croix?

I agree with you on Pat Conroy, Marilyne. I was so blown away by Prince of Tides and haven't read anything of his that meets that level of writing since.

Putney I lived there from 1984 to 1989

That's a new title for me too. I will try to find it at the library. For some reason, I like the title.

My library does have ...Carnival. I have put it on hold. I read an excerpt on Amazon. I enjoyed reading the excerpt. Thank you.

I lived there,..Fredriksted, for almost a year, in '66..There was REALLY nothing there then..Again in '71-73,Christiansted, and twice more, '80 and '82 on dive trips..

Putney I loved that big tree in Frederickstad.

There was also a voodoo lady that cooked dinners in her house I wish I could remember her name she was a trip.

For those of you who are planning to read Carnival this is falling down funny if you have ever lived there and owned a business, I did and if he wasn't writing about St Croix, he even has a little island off the shore a few feet which I believe in St Croix was little Cay.

Did you ever eat at the Persian Virgin? I had a great little apt. over it..Very interesting..Thanks for the spelling correction !Frederickstad..Where was your business?

Judy.. Donna Leoni( spelling is probably off) writes about Venice and a policeman there. I am not fond of her, but she is quite popular. I loved Carnival.. Had forgotten all about it until just now.. That was a fun fun book. The Dollmaker was a great book. Movie was so so, but oh, the book.. To be that strong.. what a gift.

I haven't read The Dollmaker. I did see the movie. I will write The Dollmaker on my list.

I've read Dollmaker several times. What a great storyteller was Arnow.

Arnow was very powerful in this book, but I dont believe I ever read anything else by her.. Did she write other things?

Thanks Stephanie I knew you would come through, I on the other hand have lost my mind.

Harriet Arnow wrote several books; I have read one other, Hunter's Horn. Here is a brief bio and a list of her books: http://athena.english.vt.edu/~appalach/writersA/arnow.html

Mrs. Sherlock, thank you.

Someone mentioned Me & Emma, by Elizabeth Flock, so I reserved it. Well, I just finished it. What a powerful story. My dakughter, three years her brother's junior, always said "me&Willie" as if it were one word so the title attracted me. I will never forget Me & Emma.

Hunters Horn?? Good heavens, I read that many years ago and did not realize that Arnow wrote it and I should have. Same sort of characters.

Wasn't that ("Me and Emma") an amazing book? I'm so grateful someone here suggested it or it was one I never would have known about, much less read. Great read.

"Peachtree Road" by Anne Rivers Siddons, sounds great. Several of you recommended it, and my library has it. The setting is interesting, as I lived near Atlanta when I was in high school, back in the 1950's, and we used to drive through Buckhead to look at the houses of the rich and powerful. Mostly all we saw were glimpses through gates and shrubbery or up extensive lawns to white pillars.

On the audio book shelf, I found "Our Lady of the Forest" by David Guterson. Set in the rainforest of Washington State, it is the story of a runaway 16-year-old girl who has visions of the Virgin Mary while in the woods picking mushrooms. It depicts the descent of Marian followers and conflict with the lumber company who owns the woods and tries to stop the trespassing on their land. The ending has an interesting, almost O"Henry, twist.

I have a very interesting book that I bought just because of the title. Its called East of the Mountains by David Gutterson. All of my sons have homes "east of the mountains" and I know every part of the country Gutterson talks about. Its a wonderful book, I thought its probably not "our" east of the mountains but it is.

I agree ...I loved the book....as well as his first one....."Snow Falling On Mountain?"

Maybe it was "Snow Falling on Cedars?"......in a hurry or would put up the correct title.......I am sure it was on the best seller list

The Dollmaker was made into a wonderful movie- can't remember if it had been Jane Fonda in the cast-- might be found through Netflix or one of those online DVD rental companies- worth watching as well as the book a wonderful read.

Has anyone read any works by Knut Hamsun. I was introduced to his writings when I did volunteer work at a hospice and an elderly Norwegian woman would talk about his novels as if she were living them.

I have not heard of Knut Hamsum but his books sound interesting.

I have been on my library list for some time for this book, by Irene Nemirovsky, and finally was able to get it today. I heard about it on another book board, in which it was HIGHLY recommended. Anyone in here read it???? JOY

I finished "For One More Day" by Mitch Albom. It made me think about if I could turn back the clock to be with a loved one, what would I say? In the book the main character gets the chance to see and speak with his mother after she has died. In other words, the main character gets the chance to finish unfinished business. One warning, it is a tear jerker.

Lajoy sorry. I have not read Suite Francaise.

I haven't read "Five People in Heaven." Now, I want to read that one too.

Yes, YiLiLin, Jane Fonda did play the dollmaker in the movie of the same name. I enjoyed the book and the movie equally, not something that happens very often.

I was happy to see another in the series of Elm Creek Quilters by Jennifer Chiaverini. In this one, "The Circle of Quilters", two of the teachers are leaving and the Quilters are interviewing replacements. The background and current life of several of the applicants, plus their interview, are rich in detail and by the end I was pulling for all of them, but was satisfied with the selections.

By all means, read "Five People." Really lovely book. I want to get his new one, but think I'll wait till after Christmas (not that I think anybody will get it for me, but I won't feel so bad spending something on myself then!)

BevSykes, thanks for the recommendation. I have put "Five People..." on my list.

Just heard someone this weekend say the five people was one of the best books she's read in a long time.

I'm only now reading A Time to Love and a Time to Die- intrigued by how actual 'writing' changes with each generation. At first I was not too enthusiastic with the straightforward prose, but now relish how these simple no bells or whistles sentences create compelling scenes. NOt to mention a reminder that war is war is war is war....

After only three years, I finally located a copy of "One Vacant Chair", Howzat. Thank you, thank you for recommending it. I rarely laugh out loud when reading a book, but I did several times. It is not that the book is comic, but Joe Coomer's descriptions are. He has such an ability to bring characters and places to life. One of my favorite lines is part of the description of the minister:

Nearing ninety, his coal black toupee fit his head like a single sock drying on a tin mailbox.

And the other is while driving in Scotland:

Down through Duirinish, we fell into Plockton from a high ridge as if dropped there by a bird.

Such wonderful images! The book is set in Fort Worth, Texas, and Scotland. It deals with death and loss, but there is a lot of love and support for each other.

I usually don't care for fables or any story that is not rooted in reality. But this little book is the BIG exception! I absolutely loved it, and feel that it has some important things to say to everyone, especially older people. It only takes a couple of hours to read, but you won't soon forget it, and will likely read it over again as I did.

The basic theme is that all of us are here on earth for a reason, but most of us don't yet know what the reason is. Even though we seem to have accomplished nothing of significance in our lifetime, someday we will learn the answers to why we were here and what our purpose in life was.

The book is NOT religious or preachy ... just a new and different take on the meaning of life. (After I finished it, I couldn't help thinking ... if only!)

I've read three of his novels. 'love his stuff. claire

Marilyne, you really have increased my interest in "Five People..." Thank you.

It's interesting that someone should mention Knut Hamsun. His Growth of the Soil was on one of the bookshelves when I was growing up. A thick book -- I never read it and I don't know if anyone else in the family did either, but since we came from a long line of Norwegians it was only fitting that we had it. I don't know when it was published or what else he has written.

But it is available online, provided by the University of Adelaide.

Growth of the Soil by Knut Hamsun

Strange thoughts wander into my mind when I am walking the dog. The morning, I remembered a book that I loved as a child. I don't know the name, and the book is long gone. The only line I remember is, "Laugh and grow fat", said Murphy, the Irish Potato. I can vaguely envision a potato with stick arms and legs and a bowler hat. Does anyone else have any memory of this book?

Perkie, does this help?

Murphy, the Irish Potato

RARE BOXED SET OF 6 ALGONQUIN/VOLLAND BOOKS

476. VOLLAND. SIX SUNNY BOOKS. NY: Algonquin (Chicago: Volland various dates 1920's). This is a fabulous set of 6 Sunny books republished by Algonquin from Volland originals. Each is bound in pictorial boards and all are in fine condition, housed in the original pictorial box that opens like a book. Includes the following titles and illustrators: Dinky Ducklings - Lang Campbell, Merry Murphy (the Irish Potato) - Lang Campbell, Honey Bear - Maginel Wright Barney [Engright], Sunny Bunny - Johnny Gruelle, Grasshopper Green and the Meadow Mice - John Rae and Little Slam Bang - Fletcher Cransom. A wonderful Volland item, extremely rare. $1000.00

Google shows two Lang Campbells. One is an NFL player. The other is Lansing "Lang" Campbell, and he appears to have written at least some of the Uncle Wiggly series.

since it's on line and readily available, I went to look and I'm hooked already into twelve chapters of it. beautiful job of translating or else he wrote that way anyhow. I can see why it may be a classic. an intimate portrate of a man growing a life.

Pedin were you the person who referenced it to us. thank you

claire

I finished a great book. The title is "Wickett's Remedy" by Myla Goldberg. It is historical fiction. I had to keep reminding myself that it wasn't a nonfiction book. The book is about the influenza epidemic of 1918. This book is unforgettable. I congratulate the author for doing so much research.

Research, research research. The Devil in the White City, the research resulted in a vastly richer tale. Georgette Heyer's research for her regency romances was so meticulous that Sandhurst, the British West Point, used her work for their study of Waterloo. This is why I love historical fiction; I learn! Thanks, Hats, for the recommendation. BTW, Cynthia Harrod-Eagles' Morland family tales continues with The Black Rose AKA Anne Bolyne(?) and her tragic match with Henry VIII. Sometimes it feels as if I am almost there.

Mrs. Sherlock I am looking forward to reading Cynthia Harrod-Eagle. I have never read one of her books.

This is a quote from "Wickett's Remedy" by Myla Goldberg.

"The 1918 influenza epidemic--whose cause is still a matter of debate--killed more Americans in ten months than died in all twentieth-century wars combined, and killed well over 20 million people worldwide."

We had a big discussion of "Bee Season" by Myla Goldberg. Ginny led the discussion. I missed that discussion. I intend to read "Bee Seaon" and read the discussion's archived posts as well. Of course, this is one of my goals for a later time.

Hats: Have you seen or read Akeelah and the Bee? First a movie now a children's book, it is about one child's efforts to get to the national spelling bee contest. Should make a good pairing with Bee Season.

Oh yes, Mrs. Sherlock I loved, loved "Akeelah and the Bee." It is a great movie.

Mrs. Sherlock, that's interesting about Akeelah and the Bee now a children's book.I'm glad to hear it. I thoroughly enjoyed the movie, but still think that the documentary Spellbound, also about the National Bee, is the best. As for Bee Season, when I read it I thought it a very depressing book about a most dysfunctional family. I have the movie on my Netflix que, but keep bypassing it with other films I think I will enjoy more.

That's it exactly, Pedlin. I looked at the picture of "Merry Murphy, the Irish Potato", and that is the illustration I remember. I'm afraid $1,000. is too costly for me to pursue, but I'm glad to have the information. Thank you. Too bad I didn't keep our copy!

It has been years since I read "Gulliver's Travels". At the time, I was still under the influence of Disney's version of Gulliver's visit to Lilliput and didn't really appreciate the book. When I saw it on the audio book shelf, I decided to give it another try, and I am glad I did. The thing I found the most interesting was Gulliver's ability to adapt to the new situations - tiny people, giants, flying islands, and horses - but had a lot of trouble adjusting back to the world where he had lived his whole life up to the beginning of the first travel.

I am reading a wonderful book that I find hard to put in any genre. It is Ghost Riders by Sharyn McCrumb. On the cover it calls it a novel. It isn't a mystery in the true sense of genre mysteries or a romance but has elements of both. McCrumb knows Appalachia and conveys it in a way that makes you want to live on the top of one of the mountains.

I love Sharon McCrumb stories. She has written about Appalachia, as you say, in a very compelling way. Here is a website which lists her books. http://www.stopyourekillingme.com/M_Authors/McCrumb_Sharyn.html Mostly she writes mysteries.

I loved "The Songcatcher." I haven't read the other ones. Mrs. Sherlock, thank you for the link.

Pedin thanks for finding Growth of the Soil and posting- getting other exposed to Hamsum as well. Growth is a good introduction, Hunger is a better read after you've become a fan.

I was surprised when I saw how many translated works out public library has for circulation, but these are old editions, and I wonder if his work will become less and less accessible over time.

Do you or anyone else know of any college's literature curriculum that includes him? Perhaps as a prelude to Kafka.

Sharon McCrumb writes beautifully. She makes you long to go to North Carolina and visit all of the people, especially Norah.. I love the part of North Carolina she writes about and try to visit at least once a year. She has also written two hysterically funny sort of mysteries very early in her writing career.. Try Zombies of the Gene Pool and the companion. Truly silly and fun.

I love Sharyn McCrumb's series about Nora Bonesteel and her life in the Appalachian Mountains. I have never liked McCrumb's series about Elizabeth MacPherson nor the Bimbos and Zombies trilogy. I find it fascinating when an author can write one series so differently from another! Oh, and I liked "If Ever I Return, Pretty Peggy-O" which is a stand-alone mystery.

Last week I found "A Memory Keeper's Daughter" waiting for me on the hold shelf, Marilyne, and immediately read it. It is an interesting theme. A doctor delivers his wife and his twins at his clinic on a snowy night. The first twin is a healthy boy, but the second is a Down's Syndrome girl. He is so appalled that he gives the girl to the nurse and orders her to take the baby to an institution that specializes in the mentally retarded and tells his wife she was born dead. The nurse finds the institution so run down, that she keeps the baby and moves to a different state. The book goes back and forth between the two families, and the impact of the doctor's actions, mostly on his own family and mostly adverse, and wearing on this reader. Fortunately, the nurse and daughter had a fulfilling life, and the daughter grew into a happy, confident woman, which kept me going.

Perkie, I have just gotten Memory Keeper's Daughter. I haven't looked at it yet. I hear a lot of talk about that book, all good talk.

I had to give up on Daughter. Too depressing for me to find what merit it may have had.

Oh no!

Mrs. Sherlock - Give it another try! I didn't think it was depressing, but seemed more like real life. The decisions that we sometimes make while under stress, can haunt us for a lifetime. Seems like all the really good fiction has a certain element of sadness, along with an uplifting feeling as well.

Right now I'm reading "The Kite Runner", and it seems to fit in that category too. I don't know how it's going to end yet, but those of you who have read it know that the main character makes a choice when he is young, that colors or impacts his entire life.

"The Kite Runner" is a wonderful book and gave me a better understanding of the Afghani culture and how Afganistan got to where it is today. Terrible, the things people do to each other.

Am reading the third Billie Letts book. Loved the first two and dived right into this one. The premise of your mother being murdered and you abducted at 10 months and now years later finding out.. Hmm. I can see his confusion..

Stephanie, what is the title?

the book exchange here is often ful of good things. the trouble is I have too many waiting for me right now. so stopped subscribing bit I got this one there. it's also a movie with merl streep. must see that one of these days too. very amusing.

Stephanie, I'll echo Hats' question. I loved the first one, book and film. Letts lived here for a while. A student, I believe, and her husband taught at the university.

Winsum, the DVD for Devil is coming out this month, and it's on my list. But I want to read the book first.

I have found a new author to like a lot. Ron Rash is a poet and writes his prose with poetic turns of phrase. "Saints at the River" is the story of a 12 year old girl who drowns in the river that forms part of the boundry between South Carolina and Georgia. The river has Wild and Scenic River status, and the girl's body is trapped by the current under a boulder. The story is about the conflict between the people who want to get her out at any cost and those who have fought developers for years to keep the river pristine and don't want any precedent that might give the developers an opportunity to weaken the status. It is also about the conflict between the old ways and modern 'progress'. I plan to look for other works by this excellent writer.

The Billie Letts book is "Shoot the Moon" and I have already finished it. I loved it. The premise is odd, but she does some neat turns and twists in it. I do like her as a writer. She always tends to surprise you.

Stephanie, thank you for the title. I bet you did enjoy it. I am glad you wrote about it here.

dI've reserved Shoot the Moon. Thanks, Stephanie.

Perkie I have that book Saints at the River and I loved it. I can even remember most of it and thats good for me, it must have been a really good book.

The Kite Runner, one of the best books I've read this year. I was in a reading slump, nothing seemed right . . . what is a kite runner anyway. I was running out of time at the library so quickly picked it up and checked it out. Well, when I got started I couldn't stop. Wonderful book.

I said the same thing about kite Runner........it was a one read selection of our library here........

Certainly do agree about Kite Runner !

Same here - "Kite Runner" was a true quality book! I just finished reading it and found it to be a real pageturner. My husband is reading it right now, and feels the same way.

I'm new to this site and am just learning my way around. tigerlily said that Kite Runner was a selection of the library here. Excuse my ignorance but what is the current selection? I need to get familiar with SeniorNet because it looks like a great place to be. Thanks. jazzlover

Jazzlover........not a selection of senior net.....my public library has a program called "One Read" which selects a book and the entire community of those interested read that selection.......that is what I meant......welcome to senior net.........if you love books you will love these book discussions............

Jazzlover: Welcome! This is the place for lovers of books and reading. We call ourselves "Bookies". We have many discussions here. Mystery, Science Fiction, Romance, Fiction Old and New, Books into Movies and The Book Nook are mostly of the type where we discuss what we are reading, making mention of new authors we have found, etc. We also have currently four discussions ongoing about specific books. Books which may be discussed in the future are listed; we need a leader and three others to skustain a discussion. There's much more to SeniorNet Books than this so please poke around til you find what you like; I'm sure its here. It's kind of like an old, dusty, used book store with bunches of readers siting here and there, avidly nattering on. Here is the link to the main directory: http://discussions.seniornet.org/cgi-bin/WebX?14@@.ee6eef3#CurrentDiscussions Just introduce yourself and watch what happens! So glad you dropped in and be sure to come by often!

Thank you both for the info. MrsSherlock, I love your description of SeniorNet Books, sounds like my favorite bookstore in Madison, CT, but it's not a used bookstore, just very old world and bookie. I can't think of a better place or people to spend time than with other bookies. Thanks for the welcome. jazzlover

All you need to say is: "I'm new" and you will get help and welcomes. Explore. You'll find what fits. Speaking of Kite Runner, we had a discussion on it here and it was a really fine discussion, one of the best I've ever been in. It is in the archives so you can follow it along as you read the book if you like.

Hi Everyone, It's been a long time since i've been here. I'm thinking maybe 2 years. Hope you are all doing well and are enjoying the holidays

Vanessa

I read my first Elizabeth Berg book this week. I went to the library and checked out three of her books, because I couldn't recall which ones had been recommended in here. Open House, is the name of the one I just finished. It was a quick read, and well written with humor and nice characters. The problem is that I have met them all before, and I've read this same story so many times that I knew what the outcome would be after the first few pages.

Synopsis: Blissfully contented wife, madly in love with her husband, enjoys being a housewife, has a perfect 12 year old son, and expects life to continue on in that vain forever. Hubby shocks her by telling her he wants a divorce and he abruptly moves out. She is left to cope with her feelings, her son, and her constant hope that hubby will "see the light" and return.

The rest of the characters are as expected: Incredibly supportive girlfriend who drops everything to dispense advice and encouragement. A darling uncomplicated 12 year old son. A kooky, eccentric mother, whom she is learning to appreciate after years of misunderstandings. A gay hairdresser, guy friend, who is funny and helpful. And of course the new man in her life, who is "just a friend", because she is still in love with hubby!

The ending is so formula, that I'm sure you all can guess it without me telling you. The same basic story was written by Lorna Landvik and many other female authors.

Not sure if I'll read the other two Berg books that I still have out. They are, "Never Change" and "We Are All Welcome Here". Do you all think I will like those better?

You should read the 2 you have out. I found them quite good. Have read most of her books. They are a fast read. Some are better than others.

JeanneP

Jeanne - Last night I started reading, "Never Change", and so far I like it very much! The story is not at all trite, and the characters are interesting.

I hope I didn't offend anyone by complaining about "Open House". It seems that some authors churn out books as fast as they can write them, and as a result they're not all going to be good. Other authors besides Berg, who have a long list of books after their names are Ann Tyler, Anita Shreve, Sandra Dallas, Jodi Picoult and Lorna Landvik. Some of their books I love, and others are very forgettable and not worth reading. I think I liked it better decades ago, when an author only wrote a new book about every 5 years.

I'm glad you found that Elizabeth Berg's writing is worth while. Maybe writing is like cooking; sometimes the inspiration isn't there and everything is blah. I liked Never Change.

those of you who like Elizabeth Berg may also like Anna Quinlans new book "Rise and Shine".........

Have not seen a new book out by her in ages. Will try to find it.

JeanneP

Jeanne P.....the title is "Rise and Shine"

I like most of Quinlin.

Was it Berg who wrote the one about an old lover who comes back and the female character cares for until he dies?

Okay the first of two amazing books I've read I think you all discussed in the discussion folder- A Fine Balance- a fantastic read especially when anyone feels sorry for his/her condition here in US in these times. Interesting that in some passages about The Emergency (In India) you'd think you were reading about now, here.

The other book not yet finished is my first reading of Sigrid Nunez-- "The Last of Her Kind"-- the writing is excellent. Good thing this is Saturday and a day off from work, I put the book down but then gravitate right back wanting to 'be there' in the book. Some depending on political/personal beliefs during the late 60's and 70's will either like or not the various scenes. For any who became estranged from family during those years an interesting insight into perhaps why- and for me, though fiction, a major sociological statement.

this novel is by Sara Gruen......tells the story of a circus in the depression but is much more than that.....at first I thought I wouldn't be interested but was I ever wrong....it's funny, sad, and very gripping.........I especially liked the ending.........

Just before Christmas I picked up from the seasonal shelf in our library a little book by Richard Paul Evans called Finding Noel. It is a gripping little story.

I thought that I read someplace that they had now made a Movie of it.

I like to read the books first.. Have it ordered.

JeanneP

I also have it at home to read. I think it will be a good book.

Subtitle: Seasons of Life in the Southwest.The author Sharman Apt Russell has written a lovely little book (160 pages). The fluteplayer of the books title is Koklopelli a pre-historic hunchbacked fluteplayer drawn on pottery and scratched on walls through out the southwest. One of the books reviews sums up my feelings as well:" A lovely little book. To be kept and read and read again."- Tony Hillerman

when I was making ceramics studied with a master and learned how to make them the way the southwest Indians did. the designs are my own, but I love the shapes which are organic, not so when wheel thrown. there are a couple of pics on my site which is available here under my handle.

Claire

winsum, lovely web site. I know Dana Point well. My favorite area of the west coast is Big Sur and Bodega bay to the north. I research prehistoric pottery designs reducing the designs to structural design elements then basic design elements. The Late Woodland phase ( 900 A.D. to 1550 A.D.)I have been studying is coil construction with grit temper. You would enjoy the book " Songs of the Flute Player" the author is very talented. Stories take place in Mimbres Valley. The Mimbres people were quite talented potters.

Claire, I envy your ability with pots and clay. I took a course several years ago at John Campbell and discovered that I was not cut out to be a potter. I can do a lot of things, but throw pots????NOOOOO>

I can't work in clay anyore having moved to a condo with no proper space for it and aging hands . . well aging. but I loved doing it. steph these are not thrown they are coil built and burnished not glazed. It's something I could do in the patio with a little more space but they have to be carefully fired at around fourten to fifteen hundred degrees F or you lose the shine. Tthe Indians fired them in pits with dung.

JUst not able potsherd, and I miss it. I will like the book I'm sure. thanks for mentioning it.

Claire

Hmm,.Maybe a coil would work for me. We used a wood fired kiln for the weeks work, but the school has electric, gas, wood and then do a lot of the stuff with ashes and pails ( forgot the name). The class used natural dyes and they turned out quite muddy actually. It was interesting to learn the technique, but found out for a potter, I am a good basket maker.. I am hoping this year to take a class in how to make glass beads,etc. Watched it done last year at a demo and loved the thought. Still playing with fire is a bit tricky, I suspect

I have laughed and laughed and....after reading Blue Christmas by Mary Kay Andrews. I know the season is ending. This book is worth reading in the middle of July. It's just wonderfully humorous about family and friends. If you like reading about antiques, Weezie is a picker. Weezie owns an antique shop full of goodies I can't afford. It's fun to pretend.

Hats - Thanks for the recommendation! I used to be an antiques dealer, so I'm sure I'll love Blue Christmas! I might even get it today, as our library is open on Sunday. Sounds like a good way to start the New Year.

Marilyne, enjoy! I have never know a "real" antique dealer. I feel proud to know you.

Hats - I had to go on the waiting list for "Blue Christmas". I'm guessing that it was a popular book for the holiday season.
My antiques and collections were not the expensive beautiful things that you see on Antique Roadshow. I specialized in dinnerware, and kitchen stuff from the 1930's, 40's and 50's. It's affordable, and was fun to search for, collect or sell. I never made much money - it was more like a hobby.

do people actually collect that kind of thing. I have some that belonged to my mother that I use now and then. odds and ends.

claire

Marilyne ~ I have many pieces of Depression Glass. In fact I have it and dishes from both of my grandmothers. Would like to sell the Depression Glass, but I think it has peaked in price.

Remember the books about an antique dealer in England? Moonspender: A Lovejoy Novel of Suspense by Jonathan Gash. I stopped them when some of the stuff written about disgusted me more than I could take. However, it was fun learning stuff about the English antique world.

Everything goes in cycles..Hang on to your Depression ware !!

I love Jonathon Gash ( which is a false name) and his stories of English antiques etc. I would love to know the real author, but it is someone who is a professor and does not want anyone to catch him or her writing novels.. That is all I now about the author. Have read most of the stuff and laugh and laugh. Nothing like a small time cheerful crook.

Pseudonym of John Grant. He was head of the Bacteriology Unit at London's School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine from 1971 to 1988. After that, he has been a private consultant on infectious diseases. In 1977, he created 'Lovejoy', antique dealer and rogue.

http://www.xs4all.nl/~embden11/Engels5/gash.htm

Pat.. Thanks so much. I tried years ago and got nothing on Gash.. I think LOvejoy is a hoot.. His trials with women are too much and the children who adore him have a point..

I didn't realize that the Lovejoy series on TV was based on books by Johathan Gash! Those of you who have read the books, have you seen the TV series? If so, how do they compare?

I read a very strange book, translated from the Japanese by my cousin. If he weren't living in Spain, I would ask him about it. Anyway, the book is "A Wild Sheep Chase" by Haruki Murakami and is apparently very popular in Japan. I have the feeling that there is deep existential meaning in the book, but it went over my head. On a shallower level, I did find it interesting enough to read to the end. I am thankful that I have never had my life taken over by a sheep with a star on its back.

A sheep? Oh me, the japanese do like odd things. Since I have corgi, am always interested in sheep as a herd animal. Have seen some really neat work done with a determined corgi and uncooperative sheep.

I received this as a Christmas gift and it is truly superb. The title is 'Julius' and it is written - very grippingly - by an English author called Brian Allen Levine. The story holds you from the first page - an English actor in pre-war London who is offered a large amount of money to star in a film in Germany and whose world is turned upside down from that moment. The novel does not let up for a moment and some of the writing is a miracle of conciseness. I recommend this strongly as a historical thriller that keeps you guessing until the end.

Julius sounds like a good read but my library doesn't have it.

Just finished The Handmaid and the Carpenter by Elizabeth Berg. This was a interesting little story especially good for this season. At the same time I picked up Joy School also by E. Berg.

I'm reading WHITE SHELL WOMAN by James D. Doss something like the Hillerman books only more so. Its got me GRIPPED. Claire

I have searched under Brian Allen Levine. for this book. Nothing shows in the library system. Now is his name shown as. Levine,Brian Allen. or Brian Allen Levine. Can you give just as on the book.

Sounds like a good read.

JeanneP

This author, Kim Edwards, has written a wonderful story that looks at how just one decision can effect the lives of many people. A doctor delivers his own twins, a boy and a girl, one snowy night. He realizes that the little girl has Downs syndrome and asks the nurse to place her in an institution. He then tells his wife that their daughter died immeadiately after her birth. The nurse raises the child and the Dr.'s decision has far reaching repercussions. A very good Novel!

I tried to read Memory Keeper's Daughter but it was too depressing for me.

The Passion of Artemisia by Susan Vreeland. Interesting reading along w/ the Pisarro book and Story of Civilization discussion on the Renaissance. It's a fictional account of a woman artist of the post-renaissance period and includes an account of her friendship w/ Galileo and his problems w/ the church......interesting. And i just heard on the history channel that their was a Persian ship captain named Artemisia who survivied the naval battle w/ the Greeks when most of the Persian navy was destroyed.......two new interesting REAL women of history for me......jean

hold sway over Kathy Riech and Scott Tubrow That James D. Doss person can really write . . . Claire

Mabel, I really enjoyed The Passion of Artemesia. I like the way Susan Vreeland writes too.

I just started White Shell Woman by James Doss. So far, I'm really enjoying it.

Mary

farmgirl - I read "The Memory Keepers Daughter", and thought it was a wonderful story with unique characters. I gave it to my daughter in law after I finished it, and she loved it too.

Marilyn - I guess the book did have some depressing elements but I liked the ending!

Marilyne and farmgirl I can't wait to read The Memory Keeper's Daughter.

hats - I think you'll like it. I didn't find it at all depressing, but more like uplifting?

farmgirl - Don't know if you have already read these books or not, but you might also like; "Blessings" by Anna Quindlen, "The Hat Box Baby" by Carrie Brown and "We Are All Welcome Here" - Elizabeth Berg.

That's another one I would like to read, Blessings by Anna Quinlain.

Farmgirl, I like the thesis of The Memory Keeper's Daughter -- how one decision can affect the lives of many. That sounds like it would be a good one.

I've just finished Anne Tyler's Digging to America, about the relationships between two families -- American and Iranian-American -- each of which have adopted a baby girl from Korea. It's probably not as complex as some of her other novels, but easily read, an interesting mix of characters, touches of humor and not at all depressing. It says a lot about culture, heritage, and how we look at and understand those who differ from us, offering some profound statements and giving much to think about.

I like Anne Tyler and have read most of her stuff. Digging to America is on my list,just have not found it yet in my travels except new.. I tend to like to get used books.

been without computer for awhile but re-read posts- winsum could you re post link to your pottery- i too dabbled in pottery and now have a wheel and electric kiln for sale! but did enjoy handbuilding- then i discovered weaving which is both my passion and the medium that apparently is in synch with my skills-

today finished Jumping Over Fire for those of you who like novels that explore mixed culture challenges.

hi,

check out my web page. The url is here under my handle and the table of contents as a link to pottery as well as everything else. It's only the handbuilt stuff.

I've been reading James D Doss books about the contemporary Ute Indians in mystery story formatt and I lovem. ON my third the others were WHITE SHELL WOMAN and THe SHAMaNS BONES The current one is something about NIGHT. 'terrible memory for words,

got the url for you. here

http://www.geocities.com/artetal/pottery.html

think mostly in images.

Is JUMPING OVER FIRE about ???? what kind of ethnic group. . . .Claire

I'm so glad I found this website -- I read a lot and love to find books that others reccommend. Since I'm new here I don't know if anyone has brought this book up. It was on the New York times best seller list -- a novel about two young boys in Afghanistan. I think this was one of the best book I have read.

Where is Mrs. Sherlock? I miss her.

hello farmgirl........yes we have talked a little about "The Kite Runner" .....I too thought it was one of the best books I read all year......If you have time you might want want to read some of the old posts and you will pick up some good titles of books.............tell us some of the books you have liked this year....

Hi Farmgirl welcome to Fiction Old and New. Yes the sesnior net book club did Kite Runner. If you go to archives and look it up you can read the posts about that book and what everone's opinion was.

We have snow and freezing temps now for about 5 or 6t days. I believe its 20 degrees and the snow just sits there. We are used to having a small amount of snow but its so cold this just sticks around.

Farmgirl wahat kind of books do you usually read?? My husband is watching the clock as the Sea Hawks play in a few minutes and he wants to see every second.

Hi, Hats. I've been battling a nasty virus since 12/24. Still don't feel human; I get all snarly and nastier than usual when I'm sick. Plus we are having verrry cold weather here so I can't get out and about. But I started my Shakespeare Project (at last) with Richard III. Got the Olivier version from Netflix. What a hoot! He is a characture of a villian, leering, sneaking, pulling strings 'til everyone dances to his tune. But the language is sublime. Richard tells Anne, I did not kill (your husband) and she replies, "Then he is alive" as she gazes at the face in the casket. I've ordered Ian McKellan's Richard. It's apparently in modern dress. Bloom says his is the best he's seen Of the commentaries, Bloom is a waste. Azimov (how I love that man) is wonderful, absolutely nails Shakespeare. This is going to be more fun than I thought.

Hi- I signed off after I typed that message! I did read read previous posts and have a long list of good books now. I really read a variety and look forward to seeing what everyone else likes. Thanks.

Mrs. Sherlock, I hope you get well soon. I am glad Shakespeare is keeping you company. I couldn't get into the Bloom book. Are you saying Azimov is a good one? When you feel up to it, give me the title please. I am going to step lightly by starting with Romeo and Juliet. What do you think? I missed you.

The pots are wonderful! Makes me almost (only almost) rethink trying to sell the kiln and wheel...I really must begin to clean house.

Jumping Over Fire is an Iranian man married to American woman, story moves from Iran to America and back to Iran-- interesting in that it covers several perspectives. However, one element of sibling incest that evolves might turn off some readers- it is handled maturely. For these times, though, an interesting though not in depth view of a young man's motivation to join the Iranian army.

I'm just beginning this author, Nahid Rachlin's other novel The Heart's Desire which in the first few pages suggests similar feelings of displacement will be addressed.

I have a friend or did. . It's been a long time. her name is Fari. . .accent on the i and she and her husband lived in Tehran. . . and knew the shaw )sp) as an upper class girl she was well educated, but the university didn't teach the arts as they were considered to be frivolous. There was parental objection to her marriage to he boyfriend as his family had a health history . . .kidney disease . . .that was considered to be unacceptable. The young couple ran away to the US and had been here twenty years when I me them.

They had one child a boy about eleven. The family was still worried about health and the man did have problems. However they had done very well for themselves she in psychology and he in foreign car maintenance. The rule was , to use only other members of the Persian community when hiring help or making large purchases. In every other way they were well Americanized. I've lost touch which is too bad .

There may have been such sexual practices in the Persian community which could result in the likelihood of passing on such illness's and which could account for the family's objections. wondering. . .

Claire

Using Mozilla Firefox. It seems to be loading better today. Tonight will be the test.

We have a cold misty rain right now. A grey, grey day. Our creek sounds like a river. Just got in from taking Max for a short walk. My back was sore when I woke up this morning. The weather is probably the cause.

This year the jet streams have sure been producing wacky weather. We have been getting lots of rain and little snow and areas that don't usually get snow are seeing it again and again.

Take care and stay warm (Margret stay comfortable).

Hats: R&J is a good one to start with. I'm finding the experience enriched by seeing it as well as reading it. There are several good movie versions of R&J plus, of course, West Side Story. Asimov's Guide to Shakespeare is the title, subtitled A guide to understanding and enjoying the works of Shakespeare. R&J has 24 pages. Robbie's discussion on the Renaissance alludes to the warring factions in Italy at the time of the story, the Ghibellines and Guelphs, the "real" Montagues and Capulets.

Richard has 60 pages; he wastes no time in pointing out the historical errors in Richard's timeline. All the characters foibles are revealed. It becomes entirely new when the alliances are revealed. I can "see" the audience hooting and throwing things at Richard, hammi9ng it up as he reveals his nefarious plans.

Throughout Asimov intersperses the play's dialogue with his descriptions of the characters and their places in the dance of the feud. Heady stuff.

Mrs. Sherlock, your excitement is contagious. I enjoyed your post. Thank you for giving such "heady" stuff in a delightful way. Thanks again. I can tell you are having lots of fun.

is a delightful film with emma Thompson. I would look for more of those. claire

Claire I hope it's alright for me to answer. You might have been posting Mrs. Sherlock. Anyway, I will look for it. Thank you. I have added it to my queue too.

Mrs Sherlock: You must shake off that nasty virus and get yourself well - you need all your strength to read Sh. - Bloom is right - the McKellan Richard is the best - I saw it three times at the movies (Big screen and all that!) It's amazing how Shakespeare still speaks to us today - Have you seen Frank Kermode's book on Sh. Language? - He has some interesting theories to explain puzzling aspects of Sh. language and Shakespeare's revolutionary use of his 'wild and whirling words

Hats: hope you enjoy Romeo and Juliet

As ever I seem to be snowed under with other things and not reading much -too many projects pressing at the moment - though I am lurking around Woman in White and gazing longingly at my Shakespeare shelf.

gumtree - Good to see you back with us!

Mrs. Sherlock - Hope you're feeling better soon. It's hard to shake a virus in this seemingly endless West Coast cold snap.

Speaking of "The Kite Runner" - the movie version has been completed and will be in theaters soon! I'm looking forward to it. I hope they do a good job of transferring the book to the big screen. As we all know, Hollywood is famous for ruining a good book. I didn't like the movie of, "The DaVinci Code".

Winsum: The recommendation of Emma Thompson's As You Like It added to the multitude of R&J filmes has decided me to continue to seek the film/movie pairings as far as it will take me. I watch the DVDs on my computer which provides a lovely intimacy between the action and me. Let's see how NetFlix responds to the prompt "Shakespeare".

anything I ever post in public is for EVERYONE who may be interested. I have reading problems now so would enjoy the films more. Mrs. Sherlock do you have a list of films available on tape? is there still such a thing. I have an old TV which will not allow me to hook up the DVD my daughter gave me and the old tape player at the same time. Since I don't have any DVD's. . .will it's obvious isn't it. so I'm techologically as well as physilcogically challenged when it comes to Shakespear.

Emma T. rendition is rapid fire muchine gun as her character requires and charming.

Much Ado About Nothing not As YOU like it. . . .

I can't spell and dislike spellchecks that don't know my words either so pleave use your imaginations.

I suppose I could google for films. . .Claire

Claire, I love using my imagination.

Claire, I am returning the HUGGLES. Thank you. I love, love HUGGLES.

Hi everyone - I am teaching a friend to use SeniorNet. I am presently reading Shreve's Light in the Snow. Quite a book!

Kathy

Hi Kathy, Tell your friend to register here at SeniorNet, and then come and join us in Books.

ANOTHER ONE!

Another great read by Sigrid Nunez- the first book I'd read by her, the Last of her Kind was intriguing, now I just finished Rouenna-- I'm still not sure how this author did it, got from those first pages into Rouenna's story- but it is a remarkable book.

Rouenna's story evolves from her year in Viet Nam as a combat nurse.

Just ran across a new author (to me) and took a chance on her. The title of the book I picked up is "The Summer We Got Saved" by Pat Cunningham Devoto. It is the story of the lives of three people in the changing South in the 1960s. I wasn't sure at first, but it is turning out to be a good story.

Oh Boy another book about the south. Just finished Anne Rivers Siddon book called Sweetwater and enjoyed it.

I will look for Sweetwater- first book I'd read by Siddons was Outer Banks and enjoyed, but I remember another one, forget title, was amazing, set in Maine and the ending and what the mother had done to sacrifice her son to save or continue the charade of her marriage was quite a shock but made for a good read.

I can'tput it down. my eyes hurt my back hurts I keep having to get out of the recliner and stretch and walk but I keep reading. lots of information which is new to me keeps me going. . . claire

Claire Cross Bones - what is it about?

Kathy Reichs has a whole series and they are quite wonderful. You learn a lot of truly odd things in the process. She is a good writer.

Odd things? Like what, for example?

In this cas the possibiltyt hat certain bones caused many murders and political mayhem fo rleading to the possibility that they were the bones of Jesus Christ and I won't give away anymore of it, but there is action and politics all the way from Montreal to Israel with good writing and lots of interesting information.

claire

still reading only my eyes hurt so I won't for a while.

do those big bags of books have any more by her Kathy Reichs and do you want to keep them or would you consider sending them this way and giving the sn exchange the credit. smiles . . .claire

I found a Lovejoy book, "The California Game" but found it was not nearly as interesting as the TV series. The plot just seems far-fetched and violent. I'm 2/3s of the way through and still don't know what the California game is supposed to be!

Claire,, Only one I found was Cross Bones. I have read all of her books that are in paperback. If you want this one.. email me privately and I will send it off to you. Steph

but it works pretty well. . . Claire

Hi All,

I am new to the book section. I think Kathy Reichs is a very interesting authoress. Must look out for Cross Bones. A very clever lady.

Cross Bones just came in for me at the Library. Looking forward to reading it.

JeanneP

Just finished Light on Snow by Anita Shreve. A great story....I would recommend it.

Macou - I finished it a week ago. It is a good read. I was travelling and it was the perfect plane/airport read. As a matter of fact I gave my copy to a stranger in Seattle and she started it and later told me that she was hooked.

Kathy

Ah Kathy, am glad to hear someone else does my old trick. When we travel, I leave books as I finish them in hotel rooms for the maid, in airports on a counter, trains and planes and automobiles,etc. Try hard to spread the joy of reading. In the rv, it is fascinating that most rv parks have a small lending library.. Take what you want,, leave what you want and I always try to leave a few.. But I sometimes wonder.. The rv parks library has a bunch of the numbered romances.. Do you suppose people actually take them out? They just seem to mount up.. I know that the local thrift stores generally end up throwing them away. They say they get them by the dozen and noonse ever buys them.. I know in my store with a few exceptions ( mostly famous authors who also write romance), the numbered books did not resell well at all.

I'm in the middle of Shreve's "Fortunes' Rock" I'm still deciding if i like it or not......I'm pretty tired of stories w/ pregnancies being the center of the story, it's just too easy and there have been too many - true on the soaps also. If there weren't affairs and pregnancies, thousands of stories would never have been written - but i've had enough, think up another story authors!!!.......jean

Speaking if pregnancies, I just finished Margaret Frazer's latest Dame Frevisse: The Sempster's Tale. I am addicted to these tales. This one takes place in 1450's London featuring a mimi rebellion (Jack Cade), an extremely pregnant lady, and jews, of which there were none in England for 200 years. The Dame is in London on business for her convent when...

Sorry, I forgot where I was posting. I thought this was Mystery.

Mabel, I just finished Sea Glass by Shreves. I really enjoyed it. The story takes place in New Hampshire during 1929-1930. Each chapter is told from a different person's perspective. I quickly chose whom I would like and whom I would dislike. It's a quiet story, it seems, then, all of a sudden there is a talked about strike, communism vs. capitalism, long work hours, low pay, child labor. The story starts off quietly like a parachute rising up in the sky. Then, zoooooooom, the parachute opens and.....

I think it is an unforgettable story, if it fits your mood.

I had never seen or heard of "sea glass." So, I had to look for it on the net. To some people it is beach trash. To other people, like Honora, it is beauty in colors of blue, green, yellow, etc.

Sea Glass

I really enjoyed Sea Glass too hats and liked the bit of history about the industrial revolution that was woven into it. I do like getting my history that way.

Macou, I do too.

Back to the subject of fiction set in the south, have we talked about the author Robert Inman here? These are some that I read a while back and had to go back searching for the author's name. Dairy Queen Days and Home Fires Burning were two that I enjoyed. Old Dogs and Children is another of his. He is a good story teller.

Macou, thank you for a new author.

I am reading Light on Snow now and like it.

Just finished In Silence by Erica Spindler and it was GOOD. Kept me on my seat.

I'll have to look for Home Fires Burning cause I like Inman's writing. Thanks

A friend just gave me a copy of "Snow in April" by Rosamunde Pilcher. Never read any of her stuff before and I have to admit I was surprised — two young people on a deserted road in a growing snowstorm, have an accident, manage to find a deserted mansion down a lonely road, learn that the telephone lines are down and the roads to town are all closed.....

....and no crime takes place!

I was surprised to find it a romance novel with slight overtones of bodice ripper. Enjoyable, but Pilcher probably won't become one of my "must read" authors.

A physological drama about two sisters ......the different way as adults they view their childhood.........most interesting......I will probably read her other two novels as well.......the author is Suzanne Berne

Rosamund Pilcher is one of my favorite writers. She is retired now. Some of her books are better than others, but all are such enjoyable reads.

The book was definitely enjoyable, just a totally different genre from what I usually read.

Hats - i tried to listen to Sea Glass while on the treadmill, the house in that story is the same setting as the house in Fortune's Rock. I think i had two things going against me - i don't do well w/ books on tape, for some reason it doesn't penetrate my brain as well as when i read it off the page and i have to keep reminding myself of what i had already heard, and the fact that she was using three voices just exaggerated that. My dislike of Fortune's Rock carried over into Sea Glass, i guess....... i also think i am not in the mood at the moment for period stories.....the winter doldrums has got a hold of me.....i'm going to the library to look for something light and easy today......anybody got some suggestions???......Could we do a list of "humorous/fun" books on SN?.....I seem to need them a couple times a year...... ......jean

I happened to pick up one of Janet Evonavich romances. She wrote those back in the nineties and they are being revisited. They are cute and light and even have some ocassional psychological insights . There are nine of them. too light for me right now but sometime? probably. . .Claire

Jean, I suffer from that "syndrome" periodically and usually hit the library for something light. It gets me over those feelings. A while back I read a couple books of a series that fit that description to a tee. Look for Jeanne Ray's books. Step Ball Change, Julie and Romeo will get you started. Light and funny. Mary

The funniest books that I know are the P. G. Wodehouse stories about Bertie Wooster who is a real dimwit and Jeeves, his savvy butler. They are laugh-out-loud funny. Also funny are some of the Donald E Westlake crime novels, for example, The Busy Body about some real lame brains trying to get rid of a stiff, i.e., dead body. It is hilarious.

Mary Kay Andrews writes funny books. And what's the name of the author who wrote the Shopaholic series??? I haven't read those yet. I sure want to read each one. I will have to look up the author's name. I have forgotten it. Sophie.....

Sophie Kinsella

I can't believe it. I remember Ginny mentioning The Domestic Goddess. This is the same author. I didn't know it until this moment.

The Shopoholic series just drives me up the walls. I know they are supposed to be funny, but all I can think of is how the rest of the world has to revolve around this absolute horrible girl.. Not funny for me. Funny is Stephanie Plum for me.. Janet Evanovich writes a funny series..But only the Plum books. Terry Pratchett is very very funny if you like fantasy stuff..Very very off the wall. The ones on Death as a character are just really really hysterical. I think Fannie Flag is sort of funny and laid back at the same time. Nice gentle type stories. Rita Mae Brown is also quite funny.. The Sneakie Pie are mysteries, but she has also written some novels on the same area, as well as the small fox series.

Stephanie, I have to agree about the Janet Evanovich series. I am on number five in the Evanovich series. I haven't read the Shopaholic series. I do want to try it. I might end up agreeing with you.

Do any of you remember Topper? Topper was a tv series. It was funny. Is Topper a series of books? I would like to know.

Cheaper by the Dozen is funny, I think.

Thanks everybody, i'm off to the library for some "fun" reading....i'll let you know what i come up with......Evanovich's Stephanie Plum series is my favorite.....i just LOL while reading them, i've read them all and am re-reading them now.....but i'll look for your recommendations......SN is the best site for getting answers....LOL......you are all so helpful and generous.......jean

read everything he wrote in my teens? was it that long ago.

Stephene plum eats cars. . I like her sidekick too. What is the latest book? I got through 12.

claire

Winsum, thank you.

Claire - 12 is the latest Plum book. They have typically come out in June. It's a bittersweet moment for me because i wait anxiously and then read it in a day or two and know that i have another whole year to wait for the next one. i haven't liked her other books nearly as well......jean

Charlotte MacLeod's Peter Shandy series is quite funny. Peter is a professor at an agricultural college in Maine; he is famous for the development of an advanced rutabaga. I have to reread these every few years, after I have forgotten how funny they are. The first, God Rest You Merry, finds Perer succumbing to the entreaties of his neighbors and fellow faculty members to join in the decorating frenzy surrounding the Christmas holidays.

I also enjoyed "Light on Snow" by Anita Shreve, Macau33, and would recommend it.

While I was browsing the books on tape section of the library, I happened across "Pudd'nhead Wilson" by Mark Twain. I had never read it, so checked it out, and was glad I did. I wonder if it is the first murder solved by the use of fingerprints in literature. Very light and entertaining in spite of the greed and slavery issues. As the blurb on the back says, it alternates between comedy and tragedy, irony and gravity.

Before we leave the "light fiction" subject, last evening I came across another author that is an easy and light read. Peter Gulley. I believe he is a Quaker himself and writes about a fictional congregation in a small town called Harmony. It's easy to see and smile about ourselves and others that we know and love among his parishioners.

Mark Twain's The Diaries of Adam and Eve is hilarious.

Thorne Smith,, Oh me, that brings back memories. I had an Aunt who considered him very very racy and she was truly upset when she found me reading one at about 12. My parents were of the opinion, that if you are old enough to read it,,, go ahead.. Which I loved. He was funny. Will look for Peter Gulley.. Sounds interesting indeed. Charlotte McLeod.. I like her Boston series and read most of them years ago.. Max as I remember who was enormously rich and his well connected wife who was not rich, but had very very funny relatives.

MacLeod wrote another series, as Alisa Craig, about some wacky Canadians in a small town. The Grub and Stackers. Each member of the town was an archer and would draw their bows on the slightest provocation. Also, under the Craig nom de plume, she wrote about a tonedeaf Canadian Mounty from Wales whose family was composed of world famous musicians. I've read every one of hers I couold get my hands on and she never repeats herself, is always funny and is never boring.

Some years ago I read a book which seemed like a collection of tales about people living in a small Alaskan town. The one that stands out in my mind is the story of their getting a new fire truck. A committee was selected to go to somewhere in the lower states to pick up the truck. On this mission they were directed to visit various family members of folks living in their town and the story included tales about how they were fed at each place (the fatted calf was killed each time ) Can anyone help me with the name of the book or author? I've racked my brain for days now trying to think of it.

Macou - go to Amazon.com and do a search for Tom Bodett, an author. I think the book you have in mind is The End of the Road. Tom used to live here in Homer, Alaska, and wrote about life in this crazy, but interesting area.

Kathy

Oh thank you Kathy!!! I'm sure thats it. Tom Bodett was somewhere out there in the far reaches of this brain, but I couldn't draw him back into current memory. I thought of you when I posted and felt sure you would know it. I do recommend that book for light reading. Didn't he also do commercials for a hotel chain? "I'll leave the light on for you!!" Mary

Hi Mary - glad to help you out. Yes, Motel 6 is the ad. His booka are great. They are a wonderful picture of life in this part of Alaska.

Kathy

Hi Kathy, I just went to his website, which I've saved. He has had an interesting career. When I read his bio, I remembered how I came to read his book. He was from Sturgis, MI and a friend of mine came from there and recommended the books to me. Funny how things go around isn't it? Mary

I just sent that link to my son the journalist realtor who lives with his wife on an island in the georgia straits in BC. life styles are interesting.

claire

Ah, the connections in our world. How wonderful. I will have to go to his website!

Kathy

I didn't know that Tom Bodett was an author. I wonder if I will hear his voice in my head when I read "End of the Road"! I've always loved his Motel 6 commercials.

I just finished "Between the Flowers" by Harriette Simpson Arnow, who wrote "The Dollmaker". It is the story of a restless woman in the hills of Kentucky in the early part of the 20th century, when the auto is just coming into use. She marries a oilman partly because she thinks they will move around from oil field to oil field and she will get to see more of the world. Alas, he just wants to be a farmer and she goes no more than 30 miles from home. He succeeds through long hard hours of intense labor by both of them, but loses her as she moves away from him mentally and emotionally. Very well written. I can almost see their farm on the edge of the Cumberland River.

Harriet Simpson Arnow... only wrote a few, but oh boy are they choice. I too can see her images so clearly in my minds eye. What a gift to make you think you know these people so well.. Very human indeed.

My library has it! I put it on reserve. There are two others I haven't read, The Weedkiller's Daughter and The Kentucky Trace. I read Hunter's Horn years ago. Arnow is a gifted writer.

I loved Hunters Horn and the Dollmaker the most of all of her books, but she surely had a gift for making you see the lives and people so clearly.

I like the way Arnow writes the dialect, Dollmaker is my favorite, i could just hear those voices as i read......jean

Is Rick Mofina familiar to any of you? His book Every Fear was in a bunch of books from Candi and I tell you I was up half the night trying to figure out who was who. Anyone who loves a good thriller I would recomend Every Fear

New name for me Judy...Will make a note. The paperback swap exchange has been great in that I can score books by authors that I have never heard of and read one to see if I like the author.

I do that too. she is now carrying some hardbacks too which means I can get rid of some . . .there is always the library but it's a large area and I don't navigate all that well. the bookstore is smaller with good parking when it's available. that's another thing. I go bye and only stop when it is although the owner says that the apartment parking right in back is probably ok for the few minutes I'm there. . .besides I've got that blue disabled sticker. who would be so mean as to tow me? but you never know. life gets pretty complicated sometimes.

I have a huge sack full of books SOMEWHERE to take in but where. . .maybe I did??? now that is complicated. . .nope they a re on the floor by the tea cart int he dining room sheesh. . .CLAIRE

sometimes has books that interest me but it's loaded with romance and stuff I've read and besides I only pay the lady at the paperback place sixty cents postage for an ordinary paperback is 1.78 or was. and not so immediate. sigh. there is always Amazon used, but the dealers that work with them aren't always dependable. . . especially the Amazon in the UK which lost a book that was a new one and a present for my son who lives in BC. They sent it to Florida. ..It took a couple of months to straighten that out.

Claire

My latest audio book was "The Story of My Disappearance" by Paul Watkins. It tells of an former East German engineering student who served his compulsory army service as a spy in a camp, looking for drug trafficking. At the time of the story, he is on the East Coast of the US, working on a fishing boat and ferrying laundered money to and from submarines. There are some gruesome details, but the story is an interesting mix of current times and flashbacks. It is quite short, only six cassettes.

My paperback exchange that I love is on the web. You post at least 10 books and then people request them.. You can print out the mailer, etc. 1.59 postage and what I do is buy 1.00 stams and .10 cent stamps and the regular .39... then I dont have to do anything but wrap up the book and send it off without doing the post office thing. You get a point a book and two points for audio tapes.. They have a huge selection and you request and off it goes. You pay for your books and they pay for theirs. It works out about equal and there is no additional charge. A really really wide variety is available.. I have been able to find mystery authors that I have looked for in vain for a long long time. Great fun.

It's good to plug into a system like that. No trips to the post office? how does that work and what's the url of this lovely place.

Ihave trouble even keeping up with my bills though. the mailbox is a good hundred fifty feet down the fire road and I'm not all that mobile so it's part of the picture.

I'm experimenting with the aqua oils now which keeps me enthralled. Have to learn how to make these eyes work in reverse. I used to squint to see it from a distance. now must look up close with reading glasses to really see what I've done. Can't stop "doing it" though.

The story of civilization discussion which promised renaissance art is a disappointment but it took a while for me to realize that Durant is a fake historian and only likes lists and dates of wars and popes and princes, focused on the nobility and politics of the day and so do the adherents. it's a club loosely strung together around these eleven unfinished volumes by Will and Ariel Durant and hosted by Robby..

doing the research for artists on the lists and their links kept me busy but others were unresponsive and uninterested. . .a big waste of time except for what I learned by myself. Now I know what SILVER POINT DRAWING is. . .also gold point and the evolutions of lead point into the pencil. The history and evolution of GESSO which probably doesn't interest anyone here but 've wondered involved the use of ground up chicken bones and ash from Vesuvius in Italy. fascinating.

Back to the mess on my desk . . sigh. . .Claire

perkie thanks for post on between the flowers-- i;ve been 'betweeen books' of late and you've certainly encouraged me to get that one. i read the dollmaker years ago and enjoyed it.

winsum- the georgia straits? tell more if this is not the forum please direct me to where it's okay to post that kind of follow up.

Claire ~ I enjoyed your links at the Will and Ariel Durant discussion. I am eclectic in my tastes, so skim over a lot that discussion looking for kernels of interesting new information.

thankyou. No one else has noticed and I've given up on them. . Robby is moving on although Justin suggests he slow down.

now yililin the Georgia straits are between Vancouver Island and the BC mainland and specifically Texada Island a ferry boat ride from Powell River. I would ave e-mailed yo but there's something wrong with the cox service at the moment. They are on line as a Realtor's web page if you want to kow more. Tom keeps a journal going there too.

http://www.texadarealestate.com/

claire

Claire, paperbackswap.com is the site I use.. I go to the post office or mail off a check to them in their order form. Then I just put the 1.59 postage on the printed out addressed form that I can print out. That way I just put these in the mail drop when I am requested. So no standing in line, unless I go about every 60 days or so.. Easy for me. Our townhouses have a maildrop and postal box behind each of our units. We have about 5-7 townhouses in each unit. Very convenient.

I'll check on it. mailing isn'tas conveiet here, but they may have books not available elsewhere.

claire

The theme of "Bee Season" by Myla Goldberg is ostensibly about a young girl, previously overshadowed by her over-achieving brother, winning spelling bees up to the nationals. The father switches his intense attention from the brother to the girl, and triggers the disintegration of the entire family. It is a fascinating study in family dynamics that almost reads like a case history in psychology. I can't honestly say I liked it, but it certainly riveted my attention.

For a discussion of Bee Season here on Senior Net click Here.

Sometime's I forget how much I enjoy Barbara Delinsky. Just finished her book The Summer I Dared. Its about lobstering in New England and I loved it.

I'm talking to myself in here. Where is everyone?? Another good book Judith McNaught Someone To Watch Over Me

Judy, we are on the road in the coach. Am listening to a Jane Smile audio.. Very nice indeed. I like Delinsky as well, but only once in a while

Judy, I'm here in Western NY. I've been reading a new novel from Library call The Owl and the Moon Cafe. It's a good story but drags a little mid stream. I'll finish now just to see how it all turns out, but for my taste the story bogs down with small talk in the middle. Maybe it's because I don't read enough at one time to skim through it, but anyway, I'm here and that's where I'm at with the books. Another book by Robert Inman called Captain Saturday is waiting on the shelf but this one was due back first! Mary

Judy, I'm not familiar with either Delinsky or McNaught, but I sure do need something that really "grabs" me, because I'm not really caught up in anything right now. A friend lent me Bittersweet by Neveda Barr -- not one of her mysteries, more historical, alternative life style -- it's okay, but not something to rush to everyday. Ditto for the Greg Illes mystery I'm reading -- Blood Memory.

I have an Elizabeth Berg here from the library -- We Are All Welcome Here. Maybe that will be the one to keep me in a cosy chair.

I listened to "The Owl and Moon Café" on an audio book, and was not bothered by too much small talk. I'm always surprised by how much more tolerant I am with audio books, although occasionally I will skip to the last cassette or CD and if I am not surprised by the ending, don't go back. Actually, I thought I had seen the movie version, but I can't find any reference to their being one, so I guess the audio tape made good mental images for me!

I listened to "The Amber Room" by Steve Berry and was fascinated by it. His style is very similar to Dan Brown in their love of hidden clues, anagrams, etc. I read the book form of "The Templar Legacy" and found it dragged a bit, especially toward the end when I wanted to get on with the story and everyone was still philosophizing endlessly. I would have skipped, but was afraid I would miss something. It is very well written, exciting in places, full of discussion about discrepancies in the books Matthew, Mark, Luke and John in others. It also explained some of the Gnostic gospels. I have heard of the Gnostic Bible, but have never seen it. All in all, a good book for those who like theology and history.

Pedln - We Are All Welcome Here is my favorite Elizabeth Berg book. That wonderful young mother, stuck in the iron lung, and her dear 13 year old daughter. I just loved them both - and also the attendant/friend was perfect too. The fact that it is based on a true story, made it all the better and especially poignant.

I too enjoyed We Are All Welcome Here. You won't be disappointed in that one.

Macou - are you inundated w/ snow?.......we're getting some tomorrow, i'm looking forward to spending the day reading fiction. I got my first Diana Gabaldon Breathe of Snow and Ashes. Someone here mentioned it was set in colonial NC, so i picked it up today, but the librarian suggested i should have read the previous ones in the series before reading this one.....what do you think? ....jean

Hi Jean, No, the heavy snow fell on the east end of Lake Ontario.(Oswego and Watertown) We are on the Niagara Falls NY end. Often when Buffalo and places east and south of Lake Erie get hit hard, we miss it. I would say we have 6-8 inches on the ground. Today and tomorrow might be a different story. A snow day for reading sounds nice!!

I picked up this book on the NEW BOOKS SHELF at our local library this week. It is by Joanna Trollope. Have any of you read it? I have never read anything by this author. JOY

No Joy, that's a new author for me, but the review of the book sounds like a good read. I should recommend that one to our son and DIL. They are at that point and could appreciate it I am sure.

Joanna Trollope is a good writer. She writes about contemporary women and men. That title is not one I have read, but I would read anything she has written.

Read it last month, very good. She is a British writer. I read everything that she writes. Always enjoy.

JeanneP

Jeanne and Mrs. S------Thanks for the input. Haven't gotten to start the book yet. JOY

Just finished Acts of Love by Judith Michael, a wife/husband writing team. Very informative about the world of Theater. He's a top director who was raised by his grandmother, a world-class actress; she's the g'mother's protegee who has equaled if not surpassed her. Then, the worm shows up in the apple half. I really enjoyed it. It was an easy read, perfect antidote to the intensity of The Woman in White (I missed the discussion but read it anyway a month late.) Enjoying the archived discussiion of WIW. Wish I had been there...

I have listened to several Joanna Trollop novels. They make good audio books and one, "The Choir" was an excellent mini-series on TV with the beautiful voice of a boy soprano who, at the time in 1995, sang at the St. Paul's Cathedral Choir School in London.

I happened to start with the second of the Harmony series by Philip Gulley, "Just Shy of Harmony". Harmony is a town in Indiana and the main characters are members of the Harmony Quaker Meeting. The setting and interaction of the people reminds me a little of Mitford in the series by Jan Karon. I don't think Gulley is as good a writer as Karon, but he is not far behind. It is written in a light tone, with some gentle tongue-in-cheek comments about the goals of the Elders. I plan to read the first volume, "Home to Harmony" next.

I have loved the Phillip Gulley books. They feel like "going home" and in the members of the congregation you can see yourself and many friends and helps you understand what Pastors have to deal with.

I am listening to Disobedience by Jane Smiley.. I just love it..I love her books and find that tape is good as well. Good writer..

Read a couple of books over the weekend. One was a fast read but I liked it a lot. Never read Kristin Hannah before. She is quite young I believe as not many books listed. This one call Comfort and Joy. I just now requested Her new book for 2006 called "Magic Hour". This is her 5th book I believe. Think I will be able to get out to the Library today.

JeanneP

Jeanne I can't get enough of Kristin Hannah. A really good one as I remeber (haha) was Angel Falls

Yes, She is really good. I just reserved about 4 of her books. Now I thought was a new writer but saw that she has been writing a long time.Now reading. "Once in every life".

JeanneP

Liked Hannah's "the things we do for love" and someone on SN had recommended Siddon's "sweetwater creek" which i just finished - very good......jean

If you're a mystery lover or just enjoy a great, entertaining read, we hope you get on board with this book. It's original, refreshingly offbeat. No sociopaths or mega-evil serial killers here. But an engrossing plot and characters who stay with you long after you've finished the book.

WE'D LOVE TO HEAR WHAT YOU THINK! Everyone who's read it so far is very impressed. See the reviews on amazon.com where the book is available as a high-quality trade paperback for the newly reduced price of $13.95.

It's about a high-tech theft of a huge lottery jackpot and its aftermath. But it's not what you think. There's a lot going on in this story. Keeps you guessing and the fun is in the reading, of course.

Go to the website: www.powerball310.com to download chapters and excerpts for free, see a photo-quiz about book, read an interview with the author, and see some lottery-related humor.

We want to hear from everyone on SeniorNet.

I've read Berg books but not that one, so now I know what to look for. Am I repeating myself?...have I already posted about Sigrid Nunez- for Rowenna and the Last of Her Kind? For those who want an EXCELLENTLY written novel set in the times of Viet Nam and the 70's issues those are the books.

Never heard of Powerball 310 and suspect that someone is touting an unknown book. If you are the author, you are only supposed to post in one area..

Stephanie, I had the same feeling. Wrong place. Wrong time. There is a place for new authors listed among the other book offerings. I am not good at giving directions. Sorry.

Aren't you people being a little tough. This lady just doesn't know where to post. Maybe we could give her a hand.

Judy, you are both kind and right. She emailed me and I told her to look in books and she would find the right category. I have forgotten what it is called.

Thanks Stepanie I think sometimes we get too hung up on our "rules" here. Personally at the stage of life I am now I don't have any "rules"

I purchased a book titled "Memories of a Cherry Blossom Tree" by the author Fletcher Johnson Jr. It had a lot of good stuff in it. It told a story about children who were abused and how this lady took care of them. I really became emotional when reading this book. It's a good pick to read.

I am not overfond of rules, but I do enjoy the freedom of senior net in that we are not bugged to buy or sell anything.

My taste in books doesn't run into the "heavy" stuff. I simply like good books, such as John Irving's A Prayer for Owen Meany. I read this several years ago, but was reminded of it when I was led to the movie Simon Burch. The movie was entertaining but covered only the first chapter at best. Does any of you share my enthusiasm for Owen Meany?

JimNT: Welcome to the Bookies at SeniorNet. I've put Owen Meany on reserve and I have SImon Burch on my NetFlix queue. Thanks for the recommendations.

MrsSherlock: You won't be dissappointed in either, although as one would expect, a screenplay simply cannot capture the total essence of the book.

I just finished reading Alexandra Ripley's Scarlett; a sequel to the great novel Gone With the Wind. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and think that Margaret Mitchell would have been pleased with Ms. Ripley's sequel. Any thoughts?

I read Scarlett a year or so ago and enjoyed the book. Also about that time I read Chesapeake by Michener. It had it's heroine as well who seemed like Scarlett to be somewhat of a wonder woman at getting what and where she wanted. I suppose there are those people who can do and who dare to do, and it makes for interesting reading. Welcome to this site JimNT.....that doesn't stand for North Tonawanda, does it?? Mary from Western NY

No, Mary. I'm also a bridge enthusiast who is striving to achieve mediocrity. Thus, NT is "no trump". Thanks for the Michener tip. He writes such tomes but I'll manage if I find it interesting.

Stephanie, in my library catalog I find Jane Smiley but no "Disobedience" and also find "Disobedience" by Jane Hamilton. Is my library missing a title?

I finally caught up with "Kite Runner" and after reading the book, I don't think I want to see the movie. The book is extremely well-written, but it was so painful to read about the trials that Afganistan has suffered, through the story of Amir and Hassan, that I don't want to watch it, also.

OK, Jim, ty....we play euchre and there always is a trump. N.Tonwanda is a city near us and on the Internet, you just never know.

Regarding Chesapeake, you are right that it is a big read. I started that one fall and decided that I would get through it. I thoroughly enjoy it once I got into it and learned a great deal about a part of the country that has interested me. A few years ago we took a camping trip from south Jersey by ferry to Del., then all the way down to Crisfield, MD and meandered our way back up through the old towns along the bay. The Michener book really brought to life that area.

Perkie - "Disobedience" by Jane Hamilton is an excellent book. It's a family story where all the characters are likeable, but far from perfect. They all seemed very real to me. I liked it very much and would recommend it.

I would like to read Disobedience by Jane Hamilton. I did read The Book of Ruth by Jane Hamilton. It's about a family too, very sad. I have never read any book by Jane Smiley. I would also like to read Jane Smiley's The All-True Travels and Adventures of Lidie Newton. Have any of you read it? Is it good???

These two Janes can get me all mixed up. If anyone knows about Jane Smiley books, I would like to have some recommendations.

macou33 What a beautiful part of the country in which to camp. I'm sure you have great memories. I subscribe to Bookmarks, a most informative magazine devoted to books. Are you familiar with it? Based on one of its reviews, I purchased and just received the subject book which I intend to begin this p.m. Being a Texan and just experiencing Kinky Friedman's run for the Governorship, I thought it only fitting to read a couple of his mystery novels. They were fun but I don't recommend them for serious readers.

Wow. Short term memory doing me in again. Yes it is Jane Hamilton.. I have read every single thing of hers, but not the one just out. Disobedience is strange. Done first person in the son on the tape. She captures the selfish "I am" of teens perfectly. I hated Scarlet.. but loved Gone with the Wind. It has been a long time since Owen Meany. I do like most of his books though. Again the hole in the memory is not giving me the authors name and I am too lazy to google. Jane Hamilton wrote one about horses that was magnificent. I listened to it and like it so much went out and got the book..

I loved Gone with the Wind. I didn't care for Scarlett either. One day I might try Scarlett again, maybe.

Gone With The Wind is my most favorite book of all time and I have probably seen the movie a half a dozen time I read Scarlett and saw the movie (even have it on tape), but I didn't care for it.

Mary in TX

redbud73068 GWTW is also on my list of all-time favorites. I didn't know that Scarlett was made into a movie. I suppose it's available at Blockbuster. I enjoyed Scarlett. Alexandra Ripley had some large shoes to fill and I think she fitted rather well. Incidentally, I'm a neighbor in Hurst.

JimNT, No I haven't seen Bookmarks but do pick up a little newpaper in the library that comes out about once a month with new books and short write-ups about them. It has been a good source of new titles for me.

Regarding Scarlett, it just seemed to me that she was a little overboard....a little too much fantasy world. Sort of like a Jackie O story.

Howdy, neighbor

I can't remember now if it was a theatre movie or a "made for TV" movie. It's packed away in a box - will have to dig it out.

Macou, I agree Scarlett was a little too much fantasy for me. Margaret Mitchell would be a very hard act to follow for any writer.

Mary

Chesapeake is my favorite James Michener book, maybe because i live near the area, but i also loved the history of it.

Hats - my favorite Jane Smiley book is A Thousand Acres, i grew up in a rural area and could identify with the farm environment. The characters were well drawn. It has been compared w/ - aahhh, my brain has left me ..... the Shakespearean play about the father and dgts? I know someone here will be able to fill in that title .......jean

Thousand Acres is based on King Lear. The new one about Hollywood is based on The Decameron(?).

I knew my SN pals would come thru......jean

Mabel and Jean then, I will try A Thousand Acres. Thank you. Boy, there are so many good books.

Has anyone tried Brilliant; a mystery worth reading. More than an airplane read.

Captain Saturday by Robert Morgan??? Anyone? I'm well into it and it is a good read. It's been a while for me since Dairy Queen Days and Home Fires Burning, both good by same author. Yes, there are SO many good books. I can't wait to check out Jane Smiley.

I loved A Thousand Acres the book. The movie as usual IMO wasn't as good, but decent.

Hah.. I finally got it straight. I like both Jane Smiley and Jane Hamilton.. Jane Smiley did the book on Horses incidently and I liked it as much as Thousand Acres. I have heard not very nice things about her new one however. Will have to consider what to do. The Jane Hamilton Disobedience is interesting. I keep wanting to shake the boy ( It is actually the adult son who is remembering a year).

Stephanie - The story must have seemed different on tape than it did just reading the printed page? The son also "narrated" the story in the book, but I didn't get the feeling that you did about him. I really liked him. When he accidently discovered his mom's secret, he continued to track her on her email. However, he didn't let on, or tell his dad or anyone else. I actually thought he seemed like a very typical teenager. Much more so than his sister. I liked the book so much that I read it twice!

Just finished a new PB called THE WIDOW'S WAR by Sally Gunning. It will make an excellent book club discussion book. This is a vivid portrait of pre- revolutionary America, set in the Cape Cod area...... captures the heart of colonial women's lives......how difficult it was, especially if widowed. Pursuit of happiness was not for the faint of heart.

Marilyne, I would guess that because I am a privacy freak, I was appalled at a son tracking his Mothers email and on the tapes, he did in fact tell his sister. The sister was just flat out nuts from my point of view. But the son on the tape anyway, just did not seem to understand anyone elses point of view.. Just his own.. And he certaily was condemning all others. I just got to the point where the reenactors found out about ElVernon..and he sees it as so harmless and it was so terribly dangerous. He simply did not see the womens point of view at all. Just too superior. I love the tape and will probably get the book so I can see how it differs.

I've just begun this one. Has anyone read it? Great reviews, not always a true indicator, but I like the author's record.

Vivian, Widow's War sounds like a good read. I like American history.
I just read a review of The Bastard of Istanbul and that has all the makings of a real mind stretcher. I might look it up later. Let us know how you are liking it Jim as you get further into the story.

Macou33, my former father-in-law was born and raised in Tonawanda. I think there are still relatives there, but I never met any of them.

I grew up near Annapolis, on South River, an arm of the Chesapeake. When Michener's book came out, I eagerly tried to read it, but bogged down and never finished it. I loved swimming in the river until the jelly fish floated in during late August.

I had a friend whose father grew up on the Eastern Shore and loved baked bean sandwiches. She hated them and they never appealed to me either. I think it is an acquired taste.

I just finished a short novel by Meg Wolitzer, "The Wife". It is narrated by the wife, and is the story of her affair with a married professor, who divorces his first wife and marries the wife of the story. It is an interesting tale of dependence and exploitation. Very well written.

Hi Perkie,

Tonawanda is a short distance from us. Strange how it goes. A few years ago our Grandson came for a visit to us and his Dad from Oregon. His travelling companion was a young woman who had gone to school in Tonawanda.

I would recommend trying Chesapeake again. It does tend to bog down in places as does many heavy novels...., but is worth the read if you are at all interested in the history of the area....which I was. We visited Chestertown on our trip and later friends from this area went there for their retirement location. A very pretty revolutionary town!!

Many years ago we travelled to DC and on our trip visited in the Chesapeake. When we found a public beach for swimming on a very hot day, we learned with our children about the jellyfish!!!

macou33 You've piqued my interest in Chesapeake, although Ralph gave up on it. I'll add it to my ever expanding reading list which is at 337 at the moment. I'll let you know about Istanbul. Of course Chesapeake has personal appeal to you and that area is a far cry from the arid state of Texas. I started my career in Washington, D.C. and had occasion to fish the bay and camp on Skyline Drive, but that was a ton of years ago. Great memories.

JimNT I used to keep a numbered 'to read' list but since coming to seniornet the interesting books come too thick and fast. So many good books out there...

M ichener.. I read Alaska, Hawaii, Texas and of course Chesapeake, since I was born and brought up in Delaware. The Eastern shore is and always has been a most peculiar place with lots of water everywhere and waterfowl and a very independent frame of mind. Chesapeake was interesting although personally the long gun part of the book escaped me. All of my friends from childhood( male) tended toward duck hunting and rented marshes over closer in Maryland, but never heard of the long gun at all. Still it was interesting as were most of his books.

gumtree You're absolutely right. My book list is completely unrealistic and I know, as do you, I'll hardly dent the list in this lifetime. Jung would say it's an ego matter and I'd be hard pressed to disagree. But it is fun to scroll the list occasionally and see all the titles and authors with which one would like to acquaint.

I'M READING "PRINCE OF TIDES", I have read "LOrd's of Disciple", and Beach Music"< by Conroy, but I think the Prince is best. I love his use of language.

Hi Evelyn - "The Prince of Tides" has been on my list of top ten favorites for at least 20 years now! I love that book ... but too bad they had to ruin the movie by allowing Streisand to change the story to suit herself. It could have been a great movie.

I think my favorite was Conrack-The water is wide.. It was Conroy's first book and is somewhat autobiographical. Fun to read about.

My son thinks I'm shy a brick for having two or more books in progress at any given time. I'm reading The Bastard of Istanbul, Prestige, and a Kinky Friedman nut job titled Elvis, Jesus, and Coca-Cola. I reach for the one that suits my mood and might change to another a few hours later. Are there others out there that enjoy the same habit?

I have been know to read more than one book at a time, especially if I am working on a long and more difficult one.

Hi there. I am new to the group and read with interest your comments on Patrick Conroy's writings. The Water is Wide is one of my favorites as well. How about the Great Santini? That one is also semi-biographical. I do enjoy his writing. I did enjoy the movie Prince of Tides...but then I am a huge Barbra Streisand fan..lol..so what can I say. From what I read in his book Winning Season, he did make amends with his father before his father's death. Sounds like they both had a pretty tortured life. I think this is a great site and vessel for communication. Thanks again.

With regard to reading more than one book at a time, isn't that what we're supposed to do? lol Otherwise I'll NEVER even get a chance at reading all I'd like to read before I die. lol Not that there's a chance of that happening, anyway, but I bore easily, so reading more than one book at a time has always been my habit. I guess I could be classified as a quitter, too, because generally speaking, I give a book 100 pages and if it hasn't made it by then, I'm done with it. I know many, many people who cannot stop once they start a book, but it doesn't bother me. I just finished two books that I thought were among some of the worst I've ever read, lol, so I guess I should have followed my 100 page rule. :O)

Welcome Irishmom and good to have your view on the books and authors we talk about here, and others when you have them. I've come to the same conclusion as you about finishing a book....that is if it doesn't really get my interest PDQ, it's gone. I don't have time to struggle through just because I started.
I picked up a book by Anita Shreve at a library book sale last week to take with me on vacation. It is December Wedding. I've started it, but it is slow going so far. One of the reviews said that it was a page turner, but so far???? Maybe it's because I'm distracted by so much preparation for our trip. I hope so because I find it harder to concentrate on reading when I'm away from home and want to have a real good story.

Thanks, macou, and I agree with your time assessment. Regarding Anita Shreve, I've never read her, but her books move well in our store. She's one of those authors I've always intended to read, but haven't gotten around to it. Another really good author to read for fun is Jeanne Ray. Two of her books I really enjoyed are Julie and Romeo and Julie and Romeo Get Lucky. They're easy and fast to read and most enjoyable. I hope you have a good vacation. I just returned from a short trip to Las Vegas with my sister and brother-in-law. It was a great time. Unfortunately, I don't have any more money now than I did when I left...less actually. :O)

I used to have a fiction book and a nonfiction book going at the same time. Right now I have 2 fiction, well maybe 3 if I count the book I put down a few days ago to read something else. lol I still have my marker in it and time will tell if I ever finish it. Nonfiction is on a back burner right now.
GinnyAnn

I only read one book at a time. I like to concentrate on and savor a single story, and finish it before starting something else. Then when I'm finished, I like to think about the story for a couple of days before I start a new one.

Right now I'm almost finished with an especially enjoyable book - Citizen Vince, by Jess Walter. It's a great story about a former small time crook, who's now in the witness protection program. Through a strange set of circumstances, he finds himself back in NYC, attempting to make amends to the Mafia "wise guys" that he ratted on. It's part hilarious, and part serious. Kind of a cross between a Karl Hiasson book and The Godfather! The characters are just wonderfully written.

I always have several books going. Generally a light mystery and the something else..Right now since we are getting ready for the Island discussion, that is my heavier book..And I just finished another Philip R. Craige last night..so that was my light. I agree that life is too short for reading a boring book, so I give it between 50 and 75 and then.. boom.. gone.

Regarding the almost unanimous comments about setting aside boring books before one finishes it, I cannot set aside a book despite how awful it might be. I'm at Chapter 42 of the Kinky Friedman diatribe, Elvis, Jesus & Coca Cola, and am fully aware that it is pure drivel but I must finish it. Some higher power demands it be so. I love The Bastard of Istanbul and, to a lesser degree, Prestige, but I'm determined to find out the fate of Uptown Judy before stowing it away. Not that I really care, but the urge to complete it is overwhelming.

Jim..that made me laugh out loud. I've wondered what that Kinky Friedman book was about. It came into our store and I haven't known anyone who has read it. May you be the first. lol I applaud all of you who are determined and patient enough to muddle through a less than desirable read. Patience is one of the virtues I've never possessed. I often wonder how I had the patience to muddle through child bearing. hahahahaha

I read more than one at a time partly because I'll start one at work, and have one going at home, and one in the car, (for when my mother is shopping and I'm waiting..I hate to shop), and before you know it, the pattern is set. lol I listen to a lot of audio books as I travel 45 minutes each way to work. It kills a couple of birds with one stone. My local library has a wonderful selection of audio books and I utilize it as often as I can. Please let me take this opportunity to tell you how friendly you all are and how much I am enjoying this site.

Irishmom, Several of us here have read Jeanne Ray and as for myself, I have thoroughly enjoyed her books. My daughter and I have traded those back and forth. Have you read Rococo by Adriana Trigiani? Very light and fun reading. Sandra Dallas is another one that order who is an easy and entertaining read. I especially enjoyed The Chili Queen.

Thanks again for the information. No, I haven't read Rococo, but I have read Queen of the Big Time and Lucia, Lucia. Both excellent. Just nice, light reading. I read Big Stone Gap by her as well, and am awaiting the audio book of Return to Big Stone Gap which is her latest title. I often recommend those to women who are going on vacation. The story lines are interesting, but you can put the book down and continue with it the next time you feel like it without a tremendous sense of urgency. lol

I use audio tapes in the gym and have just finished Disobedience by Jane Hamilton . Interesting tape, and I may just look for the book as well since I wonder what may have been left out. Just finished Muder on Nob Hill.. Got it through Paperbackswap.com and it was offered by the authors daughter and she got her Mom to sign the hardback, which was nice. First book and done well. Sort of similar to others in the era, but nicely completed.

Several of you have referred to "easy reads". I again recommend Brilliant. You won't be disappointed.

Jim, who is the author of Brilliant?

So glad you asked. She's a native of Denver, educated in Paris and Rome, with the strong name of Marne Davis Kellogg. She's written six other novels, none of which I've read, but I intend to give one or two a try.

Thanks, Jim. I'll check on it when I go back to work Monday. I checked the title in the store today, but couldn't find anything, so now I have the author. That'll work.

Has anyone read this? It is written by Julia Glass. She did a follow-up, recently, called The World All Over, and it was good, but not as good as Three Junes. I loved that story so much and would love to discuss it. It was a National Book Award winner a few years back. Thanks.

Thanks, irishmom46 I'll put it on my ever growing book list but will designate with an asterisk denoting MUST READS.

I don't think you'll be disappointed. It's interesting..I read a lot, but am not often totally moved..this one moved me. Good family saga.

I always have three books going at a time: one by my bed, one in the tape player in the kitchen, and one in the car. The latter is the one that goes into the doctor's office or anywhere I might have to wait. And sometimes I will have two by my bed so I can alternate when one of them bogs me down but I still want to finish it.

My last audio book was "The Summer I Dared" by Barbara Delinsky. It is a pleasant story about a woman who goes to visit an aunt on an island off the coast of Maine. Their little passenger ferry, in thick fog, is hit full throttle by a racing boat and sunk. The woman and a male islander, a lobsterman, were in the bow and thrown clear. The rest were killed. The story is about the effect of the tragedy on those two and their families. Lots about lobstering and island life. I am not sure what the title is supposed to suggest. The year I dared to survive? The year I decided to change my life and learn to do things I want to do for a change?

I can never decide about Delinsky. Some I like, but others I pick up, read the synopsis and decide.. no.. too too mushy.. So she is a sort of sometimes author for me. I like Maeve Binchy better, although she does not write very fast at all and loves to do short stories..

Maeve Binchey's new book - Whitethorn Woods - was just released this week. It's in the mail so I haven't had it in my hands yet. Mary

I met two women last night who were disucssing the book, "Shipping News," by Annie Proulx. One women said that it was her favorite book, the other was a newspaper columnist who hated the book so much that she ran a contest in her column for who could come up with the most original way to destroy it (the winner suggested cutting it into tiny pieces, putting it in a bucket and peeing on it).

Made me wonder if anybody here had read it and if the opinions are as diverse! (I have not read it)

We read it in '01, but I don't remember any real like or dislike of the book.

"Shipping News ~ E. Annie Proulx ~ 11/01 ~ Books into Movies"

Interesting. There certainly was a hotly contested opinion last night!

I read the book, Shipping News, and think Annie's one of the top novelist and can only surmise that the woman wanting to cut the book into little pieces was either illiterate or inebriated. I also liked Alice Hoffman's River King, and Margaret Atwood's Alias Grace, not to mention anything Cormac McCarthy's ever written. But my most recent discovery of Owen Meany (A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving) has given me many moments of reminiscent joy wondering what Owen would do in a particular situation in which I was confronted. How I managed to miss this book years after it was published is beyond me. Don't let this happen to you.

Shipping News was so good I've had to read it three times.

I liked the shipping news very much. A good story, with fascinating characters. I also thought the movie was excellent, and that Kevin Spacey did a credible job as Quoyle. All others seemed to fit their characters really well ... Judi Dench, Julianne Moore and Cate Blanchett.

I disliked Shipping News, but then I dont like her writing anyway.. I love John Irving..Margaret Atwood, etc. Still like Cider House Rules of Irvings more than any other. Its sort of funny. Ginny was challenging us to remember the worst book we ever read just recently on Book Nook,, and I am still working on it. But Shipping News was not the worst..

I am a huge Jonathan Kellerman fan but just finished a book of his Sirvival of the Fittest and I could hardly wait for it to be over surely not one of his finest. I see the copywright is 1997 so its an older one.

Read The Lake of Dead Languages by Carol Goodman. It was about a latin professor and a private school. It was different but very good. I may send it to Ginny.

JimNT- my daughter and I both share your love for Owen Meany. It is one of the few books that I have read three times. Each time I read it, I experience something that leans towards "enlightenment." the movie, I enjoyed as well. I am not usually a big Irving fan but that book is priceless.

I'm a first time poster-just read B. Delinsky's Family Ties, her newest book. I've never read one of her books before. It was good but not great. I just started J. Picoult's Nineteen Minutes. I have loved all her books.

Has anyone read Maeve Binchy's new - just out - book, Whitethorn Woods? The library here won't even take "holds" on it, so I assume that it is THAT popular, since I have never had that happen before. I would like someone's opinion before I buy it, something I never do with fiction books. JOY

The worst book, of any note, that I've ever read is Ulysses. Ironically, it was chosen by some recognized group of which I can't remember, as the best novel written in the 20th century. So much for my pedestrian taste in literature.

Incidentally, Alf, it was good to read your favorable comments on Owen Meany.

I just went into my library and I am number one on the list for Large Print. They must not have it yet. I love her books.

JeanneP

Someone suggested High Plains Tango by Robt Waller for our book group to read......has anyone read it? What did you think?......jean

I like Maeve Binchy. She has a gift for people you would probably like to meet. Her only mistake from my point of view was the Echo Lake one.. Just had no sympathy for the woman at all..

"At the Villa of Reduced Circumstances" , by Alexander McCall Smith, has Professor Von Igelfeld spending time as a visiting scholar in Cambridge and then going to Columbia to receive a visiting fellowship and getting caught up in a revolution. I like the rather droll writing in this series. Now I am looking for the first one in the series, "Portuguese Irregular Verbs", having read "The Finer Point of Sausage Dogs". I love the titles!

Someone recommended the Author Elizabeth Berg -- Thanks so much! I have now read 5 of her books and have enjoyed them all. I really liked JOY SCHOOL. Thanks again.

Congrats on your new book. I am also an author and know the thrill of getting that first book published. I'll be looking for your book in May. All best, Lynn Sholes www.lynnsholes.com

Finally got around to Sullivans Island by Dorothea Benton Frank and loved it. Have found Shem Creek , another one of hers at the swap exchange and am waiting for that one. Good writer with a fine eye for Charleston and surroundings.

Kathy Reichs' star, who spends half her time in the Carolinas, featured Shem Creek's eateries and Sullivan's Island in her latest, Break No Bones. I felt like I knew them myself from reading Frank's books!

Read "the Lake of Dead Languages" last year and also enjoyed it very much. Love the literary mystery/suspense. Also her book "Seduction of Water" was very good. Didn't much care for the "Orchids" one, though.

My favorite "recent ones" have been "Time Traveler's Wife" and "Life of Pi."

Am pretty much of a mystery fan, but like nonfiction, too. Just started Helen Thomas's book, "Watchdogs of Democracy?"

Scarecrow: I loved Time Traveller's Wife!

Scarecrow - I finished a month ago Thomas's Front Row in the White House. I really enjoyed it. It was so interesting to get her perspective on the various presidents and times in history. She is quite the woman.

Kathy

Just started Cherry by Mary Karr.. Sort of a between real and fiction account of her life earlier. I loved her first book about her childhood.. Grim but fascinating.

I just finished Nineteen Minutes-Jodi Picoult's latest. I have read all her books and liked most of them. This book is particularly powerful. She's certainly not afraid to tackle difficult subjects-this novel is about a Columbine type shooting incident. Wonderfully written and recommended.

I, too, just finished 19 Minutes. It was a powerful book. It was not so much the school shooting part, but the insight and interaction between parents and teenagers that was so striking for me. Not an "easy" book to read, but parents with high school age children really ought to read this. I couldn't put the book down, and was up till all hours two nights in a row in order to finish. Unfortunately, I had already figured out the "twist" ending. But, most people won't. I recommend this book.

Just finished Casino; interrupted a much more engrossing book because my oldest son insisted that I read this "masterpiece". Now he wants me to start Wiseguys which I will refuse. I don't find these underworld types as leading fascinating lives. Each chapter is like seeing reruns of Law & Order. Enough already!

Finished reading Karen Robards book Superstition while I was in Vegas and it was really a fun book. Some humor along with the thrills.

I am reading Susan Isaacs latest book. Not as much fun as her early ones, but still enjoying it. Her mysteries were really fun. This is a straight forward novel.

I went to her website and it is really interesting. 2 new books and one of them is a children's book.

"WELCOME TO A TURTLE SUMMER ! Dear Reader,

My new novel, SWIMMING LESSONS --the sequel to THE BEACH HOUSE—will be on sale March 27th. I’m also proud to be releasing my first children’s book, and companion to the novel, TURTLE SUMMER: A Journal for my Daughter. Come to my website http://www.maryalicemonroe.com to see the fabulous video book trailers!

About the novel~ I had been assisting at the sea turtle hospital of the South Carolina Aquarium and participated in the release of an enormous, gorgeous and gleaming sea turtle, Big Girl. Ah, she was magnificent. When I stood knee deep in the warm waters of the Atlantic and witnessed the emotional journey of this big mama sea turtle fearlessly making her way back home to the sea. I knew I had my story. SWIMMING LESSONS is an emotional journey of healing and self discovery as it explores the bonds of mothers and daughters.

About the picture book~ TURTLE SUMMER, A Journal for my Daughter is a picture book of photographs and artist’s sketches telling the tale of a summer spent tending sea turtles. I wrote the children’s book for all who ever dreamed of witnessing a nest of hatchlings scramble to the sea or wanted to share that experience with their child or grandchild.

About Turtle Summer Website Starting in June, my website will begin an exciting, active page of current blogs, podcasts, photos—all kinds of current and fun info about our turtle season here on Isle of Palms. Now you, too, can be an honorary turtle team member!

Join me in the beauty and magic of a TURTLE SUMMER!

Mary Alice Monroe

For more information on these books, to read an excerpt, enter contests and enjoy video book trailers, visit the website at http://www.maryalicemonroe.com "

Has anyone read this new book, The Double Bind ????I just picked it up at the library (had a hold on it). Haven't gotten into it yet, but the print is mighty small for old eyes. JOY

"Portuguese Irregular Verbs", by Alexander McCall Smith, is a collection of short stories, which introduce Professor Dr Moritz-Maria von Igelfeld and his collegues. I don't like von Igelfeld very much. He is a pompous coward, always so afraid of doing the wrong thing that he paralyzes himself and makes himself look foolish, which is what he wants to avoid. In spite of his stortcomings, the stories are interesting, but come nowhere near his "No. 1 Detective Agency" stories.

If you haven't read Prestige, you should; if for no other reason than to learn the word "prestidigitator". Christopher Priest wrote a very entertaining novel with an unusual plot.

Everyone likes Alexander McCall Smith except me. I tried the African one.. nooooo. Tried the Scottish ones..I loved Edinburgh, so the description was fun, but the characters...no... So I have given him up. Dont even look at the stuff in the stores.

Our f2f book group is planning to read Ahab's Wife for our May selection. I just noticed on one of my book sites that it is 688 pages long. Has anyone here read it? And if so, is it worth that long a read? We may be able to substitute some other book if it is not a "great read".

But Ahab's Wife is a great read! I got quite caught up with the story line and the characters. Look in the archives here - there may have been a discussion on it. Pat West will verify this! I think that author has a new book out now, can't remember the name.

Kathy

if I like the selection I go on reading by myself and if I don't . . .well I stop. so I can't do book clubs. but the selections are added to my list.

claire

I loved Ahabs wife.. REally really loved it. Dont think we had a discussion or I would have been in it. She is an excellent writer indeed.

I can't not finish a book regardless of how unreadable I might find it. My family is convinced that I'm completely mad, but I nonetheless prod on. One example is a book about a mystery in which there are children who have been genetically produced with wings and they soar throughout the narrative. A truly terrible book that took some three weeks for me to read in its entirety, but I met the challenge. Are there other nuts out there who have the same compulsion?

Yur compulsion could be mine only I resist. as in why am I still reading this thing It is boring. . ,.and I quit. . . feeling a little guilty afterwards.

Claire

For years I had the same compulsion and finished every book I started Then one day I asked myself why!!!! Why was I wasting my time reading something I didn't enjoy or even like?

Now I read the first 75 or 100 pages and if I don't like it or it doesn't hold my interest, I put it down and start another one. I am enjoying reading again whereas before, it sometimes became a chore.

Friends of ours belong to a book club, and recently gave us a large box of hard cover books. Unfortunately they are all action, crime or courtroom stories - not the style of books that I would ever pick to read. However I figured there had to be something in the box that would capture my interest. I started with "Beach Road" by James Patterson, but after a couple of chapters I gave it up. Too many dead bodies, plus, I'm not a fan of pro basketball. Then I tried one by Robt. Ludlum and another by Patricia Cornwell. Just not the type of books that I want to spend my time reading. However, my husband is looking forward to reading each and every one! Oh yes - there was a Carl Hiaasen book in the box, but he grabbed that one first and is reading it right now. I do get a kick out of Hiaasen's humor, so will probably read it when he's finished.

hardbacks are heavy to hold up where I need them to be. so I don't often read them.

I did spend and hour or so with a small Harvard paper back I didn't know I had. It must have been in that group I got from the woman who was opening a store and didn't want them This is poetry by T.S. Elliot with Wasteland and others. I like his early stuff best.

Claire

To the person interested in his latest book, he is an excellent writer and has 8 - 10 books to his credit, all have been very successful. I believe his latest one is on the top 10 list. I live in Vermont, only about 25 miles from his home base, so, I have read all his works and have met him at book signings etc. Give it a go, you will be pleased, I am sure.

Gail/Vermont

Right now I have at least 3 books that I started, found I wasn't in the mood for then set them down. There is a bookmark in each for when I come back to it. When I am in what do I want to read next mood, I look at the books I have started and put down for later reading. Sometime I will stop a book because a book came in from the library that I can't renew, giving it priority.

Yesterday, I returned from the library and sat right down to read The Memory Keeper's Daughter, by Kim Edwards. I loved it!!

It begins with a doctor delivering his own twins when he realizes the one child is born with Down's syndrome. He asks his nurse to take her to an institution that admits such children. The nurse instead raises the child as her own. What an incredible story. The writing is superb, the author fills the story full of human parallels and emotion. It is one of the best stories I have read in a long time. You begin to understand, if not agree, but at least understand how one act such as that can alter the lives of everyone connected to this night. I highly recommend this extraordinary book of love, redemption and devastating secrets.

Am Reading a new Lee Smith.. On Agate Hill. Oh I do love it. Lee Smith is a terrific southern writer and I have read all of her stuff. This one is a really remarkable story thus far. Found it in a library book sale and it is a 2006 publish hard cover, so a new book indeed.

I am reading The Buffalo Soldier by Chris Bohjalian. It's really great. I am sure some of you have already read it.

Hats - both my husband and I read "The Buffalo Soldier", and loved it!

ALF - I also liked "The Memory Keeper's Daughter", very much.

The huge box of hard cover books that were given to us last week, will go to waste as far as I'm concerned. (mentioned a few messages back.) It will take hubby all summer to wade through them, but he likes action, and police/private I drama and solving mysteries, and I don't.

I went to B & N yesterday and bought a few of the sale books on the display table. One is called "Specimen Days", by Michael Cunningham. He wrote one of my all time favorite books - "The Hours". So I'm anxious to see if "Specimen" is anywhere near as good.

I am now reading the Loves of King Louis XIV.

I am also reading "On Agate Hill". It is terrific. I am not all that far into it, as I was trying to finish something else, which I have done (today) and will get back to "Agate". I just checked mine out of the library, but wish I had found such a bargain at a book sale.

I finished the Lee Smith and I swear would like to turn around and read it again. Did not want the story to end. She has a gift of making you care deeply about her people. Nice book.. Shows what happened after the civil war to the widows and orphans of the south. Scary indeed.

You have made On Agate Hill sound so good that I had to research Lee Smith. I found that I had read Black Mountain Breakdown some time ago as well as Family Linen. I didn't pursue her writing, but now will look for this new one and The Last Girls. Thanks for bringing L. Smith up once again. I finished December Wedding while we were away, then ran into Walmart one evening looking for something else. There was nothing new except the series (that are so much alike) so bought a non-fiction called Tipping Point. It is too slow....I'm quitting on it and going back to fiction.

Lee Smith,like Sharon McCrumb and others is an intensely southern writer..Mostly North Carolina actually. I like southern writers and look for them..

I am not quite through with Agate Hill yet. Stayed awake till 1:00 this morning, but finally had to get some sleep. It is, indeed, a wonderful book, and I will read others by Lee Smith shortly.

Another good rendering about the South, Civil War period, (which I may have mentioned here previously) is The Widow of the South, which is a "factionalized" story of one widow, and her efforts and successes in getting Civil War dead buried properly. She was a real person, but the author has added some fictionalized characters, to make the story more readable, I suppose. It is not a very long book, but certainly worth the reading time.

I read one years ago about the Last Confederate Widow.. fiction, but really fun.

Finished "Agate" yesterday. It was really, really wonderful! "The Widow of the South" is entirely different from the Last Confederate Widow. I think you would enjoy it.

Will look for The Widow of the South. Sounds like my kind of book.

Have you seen the movie of "The Prestige, JimNT ? It has Hugh Jackman, Christian Bale, Michael Caine. I wonder how it compares with the book.

I'm the same as you, Redbud. I used to feel that if I started something I had to finish it. Left over from school days when I had to finish so many boring textbooks, perhaps. Anyway, I decided I no longer had time to waste when there are so many books I will love out there waiting for me! Occasionally there will be a book that I want to finish for some reason or other, so will intersperse it with a light, fun book and can then go back and read more.

I completely agree with you, ALF, about " The Memory Keeper's Daughter", by Kim Edwards. Very well written, and the motivations of each character are explored in such a way that I understood why they acted as they did, even when I didn't approve. The one I felt sorriest for was the doctor's wife.

Perkie: Yes, I've seen the movie and I thought it very entertaining. Per ususal, however, the book is a joy to read, much more comprehensive, and Priest does a masterful job of presenting the plot. I would recommend both the book and the movie. One would hardly recognize that the movie portrays the book.

My website: www.rainsmurder.com describes my self-publishing effort entitled "It Rains MURDER Sometimes in Juneau," a work of fiction that has sold almost 1,000 copies to a Juneau, Alaska population of 30,000 in a period of just six months. Am hoping to get input from possible readers in Eastern U.S. states as to whether a murder thriller that takes place in Alaska has marketability potential nationwide.

I enjoy a good thriller whether in Juneau or Fort Worth. I'll take a look at your website and get back with you.

I just finished her latest book in the Covington series The Unexpected Family. This one is basically Amelia's story.

I enjoy her books as they are a easy, relaxing quick read and don't require alot of thinking or having to follow a specific plot.

Mary

Sometimes you run across a book by accident that you want never to end and never to put down. I got one of those this week and loved it. Its called Endless Chain by Emilie Richards and is A Shenandoah Album Novel. I hope you that can will read it.

this is SPAM

claire

It looked that way to me too Claire.

I'm just finishing Eden Close by Anita Shreve. It has been a very different book. I thought for a while that I wouldn't finish, but then got into it more and now it is about over.

What the heck was that and why do we get these weird people who think they can use us for advertising.

The podcast post has been moved to the Authors' Corner.

jane

I treat those posts just as I do the pesky phone solicitors that hit you with taped messages when you pick up your phone...."CLICK"

I do, but find it silly that they find senior net and then think we will let them do as they want with it. Weird.

Some of you mentioned Susan Issacs After All These Years. I picked it up with some others of hers and I loved it thanks for the suggestion

I liked the early Susan Isaacs much more than the current writing. Her first two were very funny indeed.

Compromising positions by Susan Isaacs was my first of her great books. My library system says this about it.
"As they would murmur at his funeral, Dr. M. Bruce Fleckstein was one of the finest periodontists on Long Island. And so good-looking. But as he turned his muscular, white-coated back for the last time, he had no notion that he had shot his final wad of Novocaine, probed his ultimate gumhellip; Judith Singer sinks her teeth into her very first case in Compromising Positions -the million copy bestseller that launched Susan Isaacs to stardomhellip;and became the delicious comedy starring Susan Sarandon and Raul Julia.

If you've missed this read, you've missed a special treat. Amy and Asya are characters that will lodge in your memory for some time.

I finished a tiny book titled "Pobby and Dingan" by Ben Rice. This is Ben Rice's first book. The story takes place in Australia. Kellyanne is a little girl with two imaginary playmates named Pobby and Dingan. It is a wonderful story. By the end, I realized imaginary friendships are not really odd. The most sane, mature person at one time or another might lean on an unseen friend for security, comfort or love. It's a great book. I look forward to reading more books by this author.

I seem to have a run of good luck lately with the books I am finding. Taste of Honey by Eileen Goudge was a good book. Hit a little to close to home in some places beging its about a woman who gives up a baby at birth. But it was a great story.

Fans of Anne Tyler will not be disappointed with her recent book!

"Flawed Light" by Clare Curzon, a new author to me, is about psychic phenomenon. It is written as a diary by Olive, then carried on by her cousin-in-law in letters and a diary. The following quote is from Library Journal: Something of a confession, this tale shows what happens when Olive Minton meets the people who have bought her family home. After the new owner's wife dies under mysterious circumstances, Olive marries the widower. Hmmm. Solid British psychological suspense from a master (e.g., The Body of a Woman).

The middle sentence is totally false! I wonder if the review is from an advance copy, and if so, why the drastic change. Very well written and introspective with a touch of witchcraft. I was completely caught up in it.

I had never read "You Can't Go Home Again" by Thomas Wolfe, so when I found a paperback copy on the library sale shelf, I decided to try it. It took awhile, and I interspersed it with a few lighter books and skipped many paragraphs that were just saying the same thing repeatedly. It was like reading a thesaurus. I feel like I didn't understand most of what is there, but philosophy was never my strong subject and there are many philosophical discussions. In spite of all the negative remarks, I am glad I read it and hope I did get something out of it.

The parts that had the most impact on me were the summer of 1936 when George Webber (the main character) visited Germany and learned, in whispers behind closed doors, what was happening under the Nazi regime. It was sandwiched between scenes of the abject poverty of so many American homeless people in New York City.

Perkie ~ You Can't Go Home Again was required reading in one of my classes when I went back to college. Wolf sent it to his editor in a box with his hand written pages. The final book was edited by his very patient editor.

You cant go home again was a requirement for me at college. Three of us were in the same class and did it together. That helped on all of the over and over stuff. Wow.. that was a long winded man. Some of it was extraordinary, but ohhhhhh l ong.

This author is good. Someone out there must have read her Bastard of Istanbul. Please give me your comments.

My son is a huge Stephen King fan. He has all 40+ of King's first edition publications. He insists that I give this series a try and I've begun Volume I. The Gunslinger has just riden into Tull so you King fans know I haven't progressed very far. Has anyone completed several or all the volumes and do you have any comments? Based on the Volume I Introduction, King seems to be very proud of his "epic". I'll soon know if I share his enthusiasm.

Jim - I never met a Stephen King book that I liked, so I quit even trying. Seems like we're either King enthusiasts - or we can't stand the guys books or movies. I know I'm in the minority, as most people love his stuff. Just not my reading style. Another popular writer that I do not like at all is Ann Rice.

I just remembered that there was one, and only ONE book and movie by King that I really loved ... Stand By Me. It's actually a true story of an incident that happened when he was a kid. I always enjoy watching it when it plays on the movie channels.

JimNT My son is a keen fan of stephen King as well - he has all his books but I don't think they're first editions - apart from the few I've given him. He has tried to get me interested and I tried - believe me, I tried - I guess King is speaking to a different generation...

I loved Shawshank Redemption, but most of the rest sort of got me. Too many villains and no heroes..

Some readers might enjoy Philip Roth's prizewinner, EVERY MAN. I did. First of all, it's quite short (sometimes a blessing, these days), and second of all, it deals quite fiercely with a condition most fiction tends to avoid, namely, old age.

I could not put the little book down until I finished it. Negatives: be prepared for a "dark" read with little sunshine. Also, be prepared for some gratuitous (I thought) sex. Positive: a deeply thought-out, honest, heart-wrenching look at one man's declining years. Gorgeous writing.

Happiest1 - Thanks for the suggestion. Philip Roth has a way with words! I'm going to the library this weekend, and will definitely put it on my list.

Just finished Mitch Albom's For One More Day. This to me was much more meaningful and moving than his earlier books. I've waited since January for this book from the library and it was well worth the wait.

Just finished Debbie Macomber's book Susannah's Garden and it was a great read.

Hi Book Folks: new to this discussion and Seniornet tho have been posting to the Mystery section of the Books discussion.

So many books to read, to talk about. I read a book last year and am actually planning to buy it and pay full price! I rarely do that; books are just too expensive and I cen get what I want at my local library. If I do buy, it's at book sales or yard sales.

Anyway, the book is Peace Like A River by Leif Enger. His first publication but I truly hope he is planning another. I did not want this book to end. Beautifully written, the writing flowed, the story filled my mind and heart. Awesome.

Philip Roth is a no read for me. I tried , but gave up years ago.. Sex for everyman and hate all women and all of this..ME ME ME.. Just cannot do it.

We've hit the 1000 post mark, so time to move to a new area...

jane, "---Fiction: Old / New / Best Sellers ~ New" #1, 8 May 2007 5:45 am