Author Topic: Non-Fiction (Read 438903 times)

Babi · « **Reply #560 on:** October 27, 2009, 08:47:08 AM »

TO NONFICTION BOOK TALK

What are you reading? Autobiographies, biographies, history, politics?

Tell us about the book; the good and the bad of it.

Let's talk books!

Discussion Leader: HaroldArnold

ELLA, I love stories about people who find new and interesting careers
after losing a job. Sometimes what seems like bad news turns out to
be the best thing that could have happened.

marcie · « **Reply #561 on:** October 27, 2009, 09:31:31 PM »

Hello, everyone. Some of you might be interested in a program that will be broadcast on PBS on October 28 in some areas. It's called Botany of Desire and is based on the nonfiction book by Michael Pollan. Has anyone here read the book?

The book explores the nature of domesticated plants from the dual perspective of humans and the plants themselves. Pollan presents case studies that mirror four types of human desires that are reflected in the way that we selectively grow, breed, and genetically engineer our plants. The apple reflects the desire of sweetness, the tulip beauty, marijuana intoxication, and the potato control. Learn and access more, including an 18-minute video, Perspectives from the Arts, Humanities and Sciences, in which a panel of professors from UC Berkeley discuss the importance various themes and technologies described in the book. See http://www.pbs.org/thebotanyofdesire. If any of you view it, we can talk about it in our PBS discussion at http://seniorlearn.org/forum/index.php?topic=918.0

Babi · « **Reply #562 on:** October 28, 2009, 08:31:31 AM »

This guy certainly know how to make a botany lesson appeal to the
masses.

Ella Gibbons · « **Reply #563 on:** October 28, 2009, 09:27:32 AM »

So, if you had only one choice of plant to put in your garden, which would you choose?

I think BEAUTY!

Ella Gibbons · « **Reply #564 on:** October 28, 2009, 09:33:10 AM »

Serena, I'm still reading the Harding book; I decided to skip over the every-other chapters about the female spy, finding that method of writing a book very confusing. It subtracts from the purpose of the book; the author could have substituted those chapters (if he needed to flesh out his book) by writing more of the period in which Harding lived and those around him in influential positions.

Ella Gibbons · « **Reply #565 on:** October 28, 2009, 09:43:32 AM »

A book by Douglas Preston (of Preston-Lincoln Child ) titled the MONSTER OF FLORENCE promises to be an interesting read. A true story.

Preston in 1969 spent a summer in Italy, became enchanted, later moving there with his family. In a cafe he met an Italian journalist by the name of Mario Spezi who told him of a series of murders that had never been solved in the area. WELL! Do I need to go on?

He and Spezi set out to uncover the mysteries and attempt to solve the murders - pictures of it all included in the book

I think we should read it together, don't you? All the nonfiction readers and mystery lovers together? A noted author?

It has the smell of success!

YOU CAN READ THE FIRST CHAPTER ONLINE HERE:

http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/LITTLems/monster_of_florence_chap_1.pdf

marcie · « **Reply #566 on:** October 28, 2009, 04:19:25 PM »

JoanK, I have enjoyed all of the fiction books written by Douglas Preston so I do plan on reading this non-fiction book although it sounds like there are some gruesome details in the murders. Hopefully, the book doesn't dwell on the methods of murder and mutilation.

There is an article about the book at http://www.tribune.ie/article/2009/apr/12/hunt-for-the-monster-of-florence. It looks like Tom Cruise has acquired the rights to produce (and maybe star) in a movie based on the book, focused on Preston and Mario Spezi, the Italian journalist who helped him investigate the crimes.

JoanK · « **Reply #567 on:** October 28, 2009, 08:15:32 PM »

You've got me hooked. Let's read it, and see if we think it would make a good discussion.

Ella Gibbons · « **Reply #568 on:** October 28, 2009, 09:52:16 PM »

Good, MARCIE AND JOANK!

Hahaaa, Joan. Let's do both at the same time, huh? And..................

don't read it before we discuss it!

So, I'll try and get a Proposal up for

?

I'll let you all know and meantime, spread the word - we'll have to post this in the Mystery folder and the Books around the World??

Should be a good crowd to discuss the book!

Ella Gibbons · « **Reply #569 on:** October 29, 2009, 11:27:18 AM »

This book has not arrived at my library yet, but I do want to check it out.

http://www.amazon.com/Ayn-Rand-World-She-Made/dp/0385513992/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1256829716&sr=8-1

It's just out, but if it is a good bio it will make the winter months go by smoothly, I hope, with no intervention of ice and snow outside.

CallieOK · « **Reply #570 on:** October 29, 2009, 11:30:24 AM »

Ella, I just read a review of the Ayn Rand bio last night. I remember reading "Atlas Shrugged" and thinking, "I don't blame him."

Also read and saw "The Fountainhead". I liked the book better than the movie (Patricia Neal and Gary Cooper?).

ANNIE · « **Reply #571 on:** October 29, 2009, 11:57:48 AM »

Hello to all here!
Here's a link to one of our proposed discussions which is scheduled for February.

http://seniorlearn.org/forum/index.php?board=75.0

Entitled "America's Prophet-Moses and the American Story," our author, Bruce Feiler, takes us on a tour of quotes and historical events referring to Moses who seems to be very important in the history of our country.

Do let us know if you will be joining us by posting at that site.

Ella Gibbons · « **Reply #572 on:** October 29, 2009, 12:11:48 PM »

Hi CALLIE: I didn't see the movie you mentioned. Truth be told, I never liked either Patricia Neal or Gary Cooper.

I've read both of Ayn Rand's novels, but it was many, many years ago, and have vague memories of them. I do remember she wrote a book, I believe, called WE, THE PEOPLE, or something like that, that I enjoyed very, very much, but it was never popular. It was about Russia as I recall.

I'll have to look that last book up, I'm not sure of it.

ANN: I have already posted in the American Prophet book. I will be there. We discussed an earlier book by Feiler and it was very good and this one looks as promising!

mrssherlock · « **Reply #573 on:** October 29, 2009, 01:14:47 PM »

I'm mostly a fiction reader but Florence and Jack-the-ripper is too good to pass up. Sign me up. Most nof the non-fiction I read is science related or has literary ties. Right now I'm reading Red moon rising : Sputnik and the hidden rivalries that ignited the Space Age / Matthew Brzezinski. My son was born Oct. 3 1957 and I didn't hear about Sputnik until the ride home from the hospital. This is a fascinatinbg account beginning with the development of the V2. Brzezinski is a good writer and he has a real story ntotell.

ALF43 · « **Reply #574 on:** October 29, 2009, 01:32:10 PM »

hmmm Ella that book by Preston sounds interesting indeed!

HaroldArnold · « **Reply #575 on:** October 29, 2009, 04:12:24 PM »

Did any of you catch the PBS show 8:00 – 10:00 PM central last night. This show was based on a book entitled “The Botany of Desire” by Michael Pollan. Our Seniornet/books had an interesting discussion of this title in January 2002. Click the following for the archive: http://www.seniorlearn.org/bookclubs/archives/nonfiction/BotanyofDesire.html

This book PBS presented an interesting discussion of the social impact of four plants, the apple, the tulip, marianna, and the potato. I have to admit I did not see the entire 2 hour show as I was constantly switching back and forth to and from the spurs opening night. Also I have to admit that I was a late arrival to the discussion seven years ago.. As I remember I was a late arrival in the discussion after it got off to a rather slow start. My contribution was principally my injection of the thought that the chocolate bean plant might have been a logical addition to the four that were included. I saw enough of the program to find it both interesting and enjoyable, and the spurs beat New Orleans rather soundly.

maryz · « **Reply #576 on:** October 29, 2009, 04:47:24 PM »

We watched the program, Harold - it was a good one.

JoanK · « **Reply #577 on:** October 29, 2009, 07:34:54 PM »

There are bits of chocolate history throughout my son-in-laws chocolate cookbook: "Chocolate on the Brain" by Kevin and Nancy Mills. Its history is fascinating.

I'm really sorry I missed the show -- was watching the Pheonix/Denver game and forgot.

marcie · « **Reply #578 on:** October 29, 2009, 08:49:12 PM »

Harold, I didn't realize that the book, Botany of Desire, was discussed. I'll read the posts in the archives. Thank you for pointing that out.

I loved the program. It was interesting and thought-provoking. The full video might be available online at http://vodpod.com/watch/2421491-full-length-program-botany-of-desire-pbs-video

ginny · « **Reply #579 on:** October 30, 2009, 09:19:07 AM »

I would read The Monster of Florence, depending on the amount of gore and detail, that is in the murders.

I found the article cited here about Douglas Preston's adventures in trying to write it fascinating in itself, and printed IT out. I think I would be in for that one if somebody decides to offer it. I'm quite fond of Preston and Childs, normally.

I finished up You'll Never Nanny in This Town Again and have started the "riveting" and "spellbinding" Mrs. Astor Regrets, about Brooke Astor and "the hidden betrayals of a family beyond reproach."

it's been in the news lately, how her son contrived to loot her estate and it's an incredible book, even Tom Brokaw says "it's all here."

Truth is so often stranger than fiction, and in this case apparently that was unhappily so. i was hooked in Barnes and Noble just reading Barbara Walters' account of how Brooke Astor moved through her garden and around town. REALLY well written, it's hard to put down, actually.

Ella Gibbons · « **Reply #580 on:** October 30, 2009, 09:32:06 AM »

I skimmed through and then read a couple of chapters, nay, more than a couple of the Preston book. It's not my "cup of tea" - it's stronger than tea!

Ginny, I know that you are a Preston reader, and Marcie, also, so I suggest that you two do the "honors" of presenting this book for discussion when you get time.

Have you traveled in Florence, Ginny? Have you, Marcie?

The book is divided into two parts, the first half written by Spezi. The the second half, written by Preston, is more appealing - to me, that is! And so much art history, it will be a delight!

However, the murders are gruesome and should be tackled lightly!

I think I am better off with biographies of people, rather than crime.

Back to finish Harding!

Ella Gibbons · « **Reply #581 on:** October 30, 2009, 09:34:05 AM »

Ginny, I have read the Brooke Astor book, interesting isn't it? I think the title may have come from the song, Mrs. Astor Regrets. Isn't there such a song? I vaguely recall. I'll go look it up!

ginny · « **Reply #582 on:** October 30, 2009, 09:38:05 AM »

hahaha Ella, have you noticed the number of posts under my name? If I did do the Preston I'd have to do it in August, 6 discussions/ classes per day is enough to occupy my time, but I could chirp along if Marcie would like to offer it.

Thank you for talking about what it's like. Yes I've been to Florence, several times. Brunelleschi's Dome is one of the best books on Florence I have read, now, with your comments, I am intrigued, I really do want to read the Preston.

IS Mrs. Astor Regrets a song!!?? I have never heard it, if so. ISN'T it well written, I love it. Wasn't there something in the news just last week on the court case?

ANNIE · « **Reply #583 on:** October 30, 2009, 10:02:21 AM »

JoanG has also been to Florence many times. She shared pictures with us when we discussed Bruneleschi's Dome back in the the olden days of SN.
I would think that this book you are talking about would get a good turnout. I think there was a lot interest in Florence then also.
I don't even remember your title but if I had time, I would join in also.

Ella Gibbons · « **Reply #584 on:** October 30, 2009, 10:08:31 AM »

Well, I had to look it up on some of my jazz CD's. The song was MRS. OTIS REGRETS and it is hilarious. I remember playing this for my daughter one time and she thought it was awful and then she smiled.

Miss Otis regrets she's unable to lunch today, Madam,
Miss Otis regrets she's unable to lunch today,
She's so sorry to be delayed,
But last evening down in Lover's Lane she strayed, Madam,
Miss Otis regrets she's unable to lunch today, madam,

When she woke up and found that her dream of love had gone, Madam,
She ran to the man who led her so far astray,
And from under her velvet gown,
She drew a forty-four pistol,
And she shot that dirty rascal down, Madam,
Now, Old Lady Otis regrets she's disabled and she can't lunch today.

And the moment before she died,
She lifted her lovely head and cried, "Oh, Madam,
Miss Otis regrets she's unable to lunch today."

There are more verses, but you get the idea

mrssherlock · « **Reply #585 on:** October 30, 2009, 11:24:01 AM »

When sung by the right singer Miss Otis Regrets can be a wry blues ballad and very moving.

marcie · « **Reply #586 on:** October 30, 2009, 12:32:33 PM »

Mrs. Otis Regrets... How fun, Ella. Cole Porter (and Noel Coward) could really write lyrics!

I think if you are turned off by the crime elements in The Monster of Florence, Ella, some others probably would be also. That would be a big consideration in offering a discussion of a book like that. I've never visited Florence.

Babi · « **Reply #587 on:** October 31, 2009, 08:44:34 AM »

I've never seen the lyrics to "Miss Otis Regrets" before. I thought the lines were "Miss Otis regrets she's unable to rise today". Now that I
think back, I believe that was a pun. It was a note posted on a non-operating Otis elevator.

Ella Gibbons · « **Reply #588 on:** October 31, 2009, 10:47:42 AM »

OH, BABI, THAT IS SO FUNNY!

Did you make that up or did you really see that in an Otis elevator?

Marcie, crime, true crime at that, is not for me. I do like a good mystery now and then, but the Preston/Spezi book was too gory by far, although I did participate in THE DEVIL IN THE WHITE CITY which was mild compared to this. That book had historical interest.

There are some elements in the book, undoubtedly, that are interesting. I briefly read about Preston moving his family there which included two children, ages 5 and 6 and he wrote about how easily they picked up the language. Children could do that. And I think the adjustment to a new culture for the whole family would be interesting.

Would you move halfway around the world and enroll two small children in a foreign school where English was not spoken? Something to think about.

I was in Rome for two weeks with an Elderhostel group and we learned a bit (and a lot about art which I have forgotten) but I have remembered some of the culture, e.g. all members of a family must go to Mama's for Sunday dinner and if not the whole family, then the son - the son! The sun rises and sets in the son!

JoanK · « **Reply #589 on:** October 31, 2009, 08:28:35 PM »

The Story of Civilization has been active as a discussion group for eight years. We are now talking and reading about Italy during the Renaissance years.

Things happen in this period of history that change the way of the world forever. They are happening again in our discussion.

Come share with us this discussion of one of the most significant periods in the history of the world. You'll be glad you came and you will gain in understanding why we are where we are today.

On Sunday, we will have a celebration of eight years of discussion, and of making our way in only eight years from living in caves to the glories of the Renaissance.

For Seniorlearn members, go to http://seniorlearn.org/forum/index.php?topic=64.360

If you’re not a member, go to http://seniorlearn.org/forum/index.php?action=help

Babi · « **Reply #590 on:** November 01, 2009, 07:28:03 AM »

I read about it, ELLA, and just assumed the quote from 'Miss Otis Regrets' was verbatim. But somebody was clever, weren't they?

It looks like the gory part that's putting people off was written by
that guy Spezi; the latter part of the book is Preston's, according to
one of the posts above. So I'll just avoid any Spezi books, and continue
to enjoy Preston.

maryz · « **Reply #591 on:** November 01, 2009, 08:51:05 AM »

I've read The Monster of Florence - given to me because I love mysteries and I'm an artist. The "gory parts" didn't bother me, I just didn't particularly care for the book - on any level.

Jonathan · « **Reply #592 on:** November 01, 2009, 12:00:51 PM »

How about George Eliot's ROMOLA as an alternative ticket to revisit Florence. I remember having it recommended to me by a very knowledgable paricipant in Story of Civilization when we were reading BRUNELLESCHI'S DOME. Eliot thought it her most satisfactory piece of writing.

Brian · « **Reply #593 on:** November 01, 2009, 12:12:03 PM »

The Story of Civilization has been active as a discussion group for eight years. We are
now talking and reading about Italy during the Renaissance years.

That period in history was launched by reports of the travels of Marco polo and the
reappearance of classical objects from antiquity. Early archeologists unearthed what once
was Rome and the Arabs of Spain brought Greek and Roman documents to 13th century
Italy. Genovese and Pisan trade with others around the Mediterranean basin brought new
Hellenic influences to the Italian peninsula. Artists were ready to break out of the
idealistic constrictions of the past and to push into more realistic areas of art expression.

Trade brought new wealth to Italian merchants and gave rise to a moneyed merchant
class. The new wealth found it's way to the Papacy and it encouraged dissipation among
the Popes of the period. This led to abuses and to conflict with European royalty and
dissension from within the Church.

Things happen in this period of history that change the way of the world forever. We can
never go back and it all happened here.

http://seniorlearn.org/forum/index.php?topic=64.new;topicseen#new

Come share with us this discussion of one of the most significant periods in the history of
the world. You'll be glad you came and you will gain in understanding why we are where
we are today.

Ella Gibbons · « **Reply #594 on:** November 01, 2009, 12:14:13 PM »

Hello, JONATHAN! I haven't heard from you in a long time. What are you reading?

Any good nonfiction, historical, biographical, anything like that?

I have made a vow to finish the Harding book although it is a tedious task at times. The author just made a reference to Teddy Roosevelt's journey to the River of Doubt which greatly impaired his health.

That was a recent book and a very good one - RIVER OF DOUBT!

JoanK · « **Reply #595 on:** November 01, 2009, 12:57:51 PM »

JONATHAN: we miss you in SOC.

Ella Gibbons · « **Reply #596 on:** November 01, 2009, 01:19:45 PM »

JOANK: I've often thought of joining all of you in SOC, but think if I get involved in that it will deduct from other books and other pleasures in reading.

The HARDING book can be very interesting at times, when the author forgets the love affairs; obviously he thinks that is why we want to read books and, also, he feels privileged to be the first person ever to have access to the love letters between Harding and his mistress.

Little items of interest. During the first World War the British blockaded shipments to Germany and Austria/Hungary which caused hundreds of thousands of civilians to die of starvation. We later joined in this blockade.

To put pressure on America to stop the British, the Germans came up with the idea of completely embargoing dyes which would throw 4 million Americans out of work. Our textile industry depended upon the dyes which German scientists, through advancement in chemistry, had invented. From their laboratories and their experiments with coal tar came, not only the dyes, but explosives (TNT) which originally was a yellow dye, and another product which went into the manufacture of aspirin - Bayer Aspirin.

Ella Gibbons · « **Reply #597 on:** November 01, 2009, 01:21:40 PM »

I know all the textile mills of yesterday have disappeared and New England suffered greatly from their loss.

So the question is: who, today, makes cloth? Who makes the dyes? I know the end process, the clothing, comes from all the world (look at labels), but who makes the cloth and the dyes.

marcie · « **Reply #598 on:** November 01, 2009, 04:29:29 PM »

Ella, that's a great question. I tried to find information on what countries make textiles. A lot of the data I could find mixes textiles and finished clothing. Here is a website that shows the top 10 countries in 2007 in pictures. Click the right arrow above the photo to go to the next one: http://www.forbes.com/2008/05/28/style-clothes-foreign-forbeslife-cx_ls_outsourcing08_0529offshore_slide2_2.html?thisSpeed=15000

marcie · « **Reply #599 on:** November 01, 2009, 04:29:58 PM »

The 1930s is a decade that has a lot of similarities with today. On Monday, my local PBS station will be showing "The Civilian Conservation Corps" as part of The American Experience series. See http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/ccc. It looks very interesting.

News:

Author Topic: Non-Fiction (Read 438903 times)