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    • 4 people found this helpful

    So much reading, but not a lot of time to post

    Posted by Ligeia, 4 years ago

    Haven't posted since September, because having six english classes definately keeps a reader reading. So busy in fact that I haven't read anything of my choosing.
    However, I have been reading.
    33. Othello - William Shakespeare- the first time I read this I didn't enjoy it. However, looking into the analysis of the characters and the interesting word use the play came to mean more. Not sure I will be able to read any of Shakespeares work again without reading it in duplicate.
    34. Howard's End- Forsters- When reading about Margeret and Helen my head was spinning. It is a book that has been on my to read list but it was a surprise when I didn't enjoy it. It seemed like things kept being cut off and then another direction was taken. However the constant metaphor of Howard's End being England made the story a question to be answered. I wanted to know who would get the house in the end.
    35. Sir Gawain and the Green Knight- I like these sorts of stories . They were incredably fascinating to me. Plus the ending makes everything about the story really mean that much more.
    36. Several poems by Blake, Wordsworth, Coleridge, Shelley. My favorite include the Song of Innocence and Experience (1789&94) and almost anything by Coleridge. These are the men who are the Romantic Poets, and the difference between their poems and others I have read are drastic but I prefer the abstracts of later on.
    37. The Canterbury Tales- Geoffrey Chaucer- these were my most complicated readings, as it was written pre-translations. First I had to translate it to something I could understand then read it. My favorite story was the first one (The Knight's Tale) and the least favorite was the last one (The parson's tale). It seems that each story was trying to make fun, or insult the last- or another person on the pilgrimage. I would recommend this one over all the other readings I've done. However, if you don't want to go through the business of translating they do have modern english versions of this- but sometimes you lose the double meanings that way.

    • 1 person found this helpful

    Books I Read In October

    Posted by Bookworm, 4 years ago

    76. Heartstopper by Joy Fielding (Audio Book)-4/5
    77. Two for the Dough by Janet Evanovich (Audio Book)-4/5
    78. Three to Get Ready by Janet Evanovich (Audio Book)-4/5
    79. Four to Score by Janet Evanovich (Audio Book)-4/5
    80. Five High by Janet Evanovich (Audio Book)-4/5
    81. Body Surfing by Anita Shreve (Audio Book)-4/5
    82. In the Company of the Courtesan by Sarah Dunant (Audio Book)-4/5
    83. The Husband by Dean Koontz (Audio Book)-4/5
    84. Thread of Fear by Laura Griffin - 4.5
    85. Holly by Jude Deveraux - 4/5
    86. Hot Six by Janet Evanovich (Audio Book)-4/5
    87. The Stupidest Angel by Christopher Moore - 2/5
    88. True Colors by Kristin Hannah (Audio Book)-5/5
    89. Have a Little Faith by Mitch Albom (Audio Book) 4/5
    90. The White Queen by Philippa Gregory (Audio Book) 5/5
    91. Falling Up by Shel Silverstein - 4/5

    • 2 people found this helpful

    Books 82 & 83 - Have A Little Faith by Mitch Albom & Stori Telling by Tori Spelling

    Posted by Unknown User, 4 years ago

    -Message Deleted-

    • 3 people found this helpful

    REST OF OCTOBER 77 - 80

    Posted by Christine L, 4 years ago

    77. ABSURDISTAN by Gary Shtyngart. This book is a satire about what is going on in the world today. Looking at terrible incidents which bear similarities to the World Trade Centre disaster and, the war in Afghanistan through the eyes of our Russian immigrant story teller, Misha. Fueled by alcohol and activan, Misha tells the story of his life with humourous vulgarity and somehow, deep insight. Misha is not a likeable character, but somehow the reader comes to like him. He is a lecherous drunk with a heart of gold. I listened to this book on audio, read by the super talented Arte Johnson (of Laugh-In fame) and I am sure his talent for accents and timing humour made the story come to life. Had I read the book I am sure I would have gotten through it, but not so sure I would have enjoyed it nearly as much. Well worth the listen!

    78. FRANKENSTEIN – DEAD AND ALIVE by Dean Koontz. The third installment of the author’s 21st century Frankenstein series. As with most series there is always the book that is “the set up” book for the next one. This book was “the next one”. The characters grew in this book, the action moved along at a very satisfying clip and the bad guy got his just rewards … sort of? I thought this was the last of the series, but apparently there is at least one more coming. Looking forward to it.

    79. SPANKING SHAKESPEARE by Jake Wizner. This YA book was one my daughter was reading, and accidentally left behind at Thanksgiving - that, of course, mom had to pick up. No such thing as an abandoned book at my house. Shakespeare Shapiro hates the name his unusual parents have burdened him with and blames the name for many of the miseries he has faced in his life. We meet him in high school as he is writing his senior year assignment of writing a memoir of his life so far. His memoir is the book. It is charming, insightful and witty, containing just enough touching moments to make it real. I can certainly see the appeal of this book for an older teen, but I liked it very much as well.

    80. THE MAN WHO LOVED BOOKS TOO MUCH by Allison Hoover Bartlett. The sub title on the book is The True Story of a Thief, a Detective, and a World of Literary Obsession. The book definitely lives up to its title. The true story of “bibliodick” Ken Sander, an antique book collector/seller, the author Allison Hoover Bartlett and the book thief John Gilkey. Interesting read with a lot of insight into the mind of a true bibliophile as well the world of book dealing.

    Some suggestions...for Hallowe'en

    Posted by Shanie [Raksha], 4 years ago

    Just a thought: I am re-reading & exploring some other Patterson works and noticed that screen adaptations of two Alex Cross novels will be on cable this weekend: Kiss the Girls & Along Came a Spider, so I will be reading & viewing! After the party of course - Happy All Hallows everyone!

  • Some graphic novels!

    Posted by Jamie Siddons, 4 years ago

    1000 experience points for reading this series!

    I'm not sure what number I am on at this point, but here are a bunch of graphic novels I have read over the last month or so...

    1) Books 1-5 of the Scott Pilgrim series by Bryan Lee O'Malley. Very charming and enjoyable. The story is set in Toronto and our protagonist Scott Pilgrim is trying to date this new girl in town. However, in order to continue dating her, he has to defeat her seven evil ex-boyfriends! The books are drawn in manga style and filled with hipster music and gamer references. There is one more book to come in 2010 where Scott must defeat the end boss Gideon. There is a movie being made based on this series starring Michael Cera. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

    2) The Bottomless Belly Button - Dash Shaw. This graphic novel was about a family gathering together after the parents announce they are getting a divorce after many years of marriage. I think it was basically about the complexity of familial life and how surprising people can be. It was OK.

    3) The Diary of a Wimpy Kid 4 - Dog Days by Jeff Kinney. I always read the Wimpy Kid books as soon as they come out because they are so enjoyable. I think I liked the last one better, but this was a solid chapter. Intended for the 9-12 age group.

    4) Stitches by David Small - This was quite an interesting graphic novel about a young man's relationship with his parents. A thoughtful story, and nicely illustrated.

    5) Asterios Polyp by David Mazzucchelli. I read this a while ago and I don't remember a whole lot about it other than thinking it was quite heavy handed. The protagonist, an academic, had a mid-life crisis freak out sort of thing, and took the bus to a town he had never heard of and started a new life with a quirky family. Almost a sitcom. Meh.

  • #'s 55 to 58-- One Great some just OK

    Posted by Joanna, 4 years ago

    I've a bit of catching up on postings

    #55 -- The Girl Who Played With Fire by Stieg Larsson -- I bought this sequil to the Girl With the ADragon Tattoo as soon as i could after I finished the first book. I enjoyed this second in the series as much as the first one. If you haven't read these two books I would suggest putting them on your to read list. I wonder if the movie will do the first book justice?

    I'm now wailing for the third book

    4.5*****

    #56 -- Maid of The Mist by Colin Bateman -- this is the second book I've read by this Irish author. An interesting mystery set in a Canadian locatio; I didn't find this one as funny as The Mystery Man but did enjoy the book.

    3.5***

    #57 -- All That Matters by Jan Goldstein - written in 2004 this is A light quick easy read story about a young woman on the verge of suicide who is pulled back into life by her feisty grandmother.

    2 1/2 **

    #58 -- Disobedience by Jane Hamilton -- This Novel (published in 2000) by the author of The Book of Ruth and A map of the World is about the Bonds which hold a Family together. 17yr old Henry has discovered his mother is having an affair and Henry is unable to tell anyone, we see how this has affected Henry and his relationships with his mother and the rest of the people in his life. Well worth reading!!

    4****

  • 47: One More ...

    Posted by Marion Abbott, 4 years ago

    Peril At Pier Nine - Penny Draper

    At the CNE this year, the fire house had a display of artifacts, photos and a video documentary about the tragedy of The Noronic - a huge boat that had caught fire in Toronto's harbour. After seeing this display, my mother (a school librarian) gave me this title, which is based on the tragic events as seen through a young boy's eyes. I believe it was also a part of the Silver Birch Reading program.

    The book is well-researched and contains so many fascinating historical details. I found the depiction of Island life (as in Wards Island, etc.) most interesting and enlightening. This book is part of a 'Disaster' series and I would highly recommend it to young readers, or to older readers looking for fictionalized accounts of Canadian events.

    • 2 people found this helpful

    38 to 46: Finally Posting!

    Posted by Marion Abbott, 4 years ago

    38 to 43: Harry Potter And The - Chamber Of Secrets, Prisoner of Azkaban, Goblet of Fire, Order Of The Phoenix, Half-Blood Prince, Deathly Hallows - J.K. Rowling

    *SPOILER ALERT!!!!* I thoroughly enjoyed re-reading the first five and finally reading the last two. I mourned Dobby, Fred, Lupin and Tonks greatly and for days afterward, I felt bereft. Again, I marvel at Rowling's contribution to literature and wish her every happiness for the gift of Harry she gave to us.

    44: The Quickie - James Patterson
    After Harry, I needed a fast read and Patterson never disappoints! However, I found it hard to deal with the 'sins' of the protagonist after routing for classic hero Potter ... As usual, great twists and easy to breeze through material.

    45: Twenties Girl - Sophia Kinsella
    A young woman is visited by the ghost of her great-aunt who helps her turn her life around. This book made me laugh out loud often! Not my favourite Kinsella, but definitely a fun, fun read and I loved the direction the story took - totally surprising and satisfying. ... and is it me? or does Kinsella describe kissing in a most delightful manner?! ;)

    46: Imagineering Legends And The Genesis Of The Disney Theme Park - Jeff Kurtiss
    I purchased this as a souvenir of my studio's first trip/performance in Disney World. It gives short bios, along with a myriad of great photos, of all the key imagineers that helped create DisneyLand. Loved it! Fascinating, fascinating accounts of how the various attractions were created and I loved how now matter how an artist had 'trained', working for Disney almost always resulted in them discovering a completely different gift. This book reiterated for me how much I want to work for the Disney Company someday!

    Phew! Still hoping to make it to 75 and hoping (praying!) that I'll be able to post more consistently. Happy Reading!

    • 4 people found this helpful

    #34 - 39 Far from the goal but still plugging

    Posted by Eileen, 4 years ago

    A Whole New Life - inspirational and moving

    I'm going to have to find some fast reads if I'm going to make fifty! Carrying on regardless..

    #34 A Whole New Life, An Illness and a Healing, Reynolds Price

    Lovely. Price is a successful novelist and is stricken with spinal cancer in his fifties which leaves him paraplegic. This memoir details his outer and inner struggle with his illness, coming to terms with what he is left with, and the various healing methods he used. Though the subject is serious, I did not find this depressing, but instead a moving depiction of struggle and triumph.

    #35 City of God, Beverly Swerling

    HIstorical fiction of the city of New York in the middle of the nineteenth century. The book follows several colourful characters' stories - a shipping magnate whose specialty is Chinese trade, his Chinese mistress, his put upon wife, a doctor who is interested in the leading research of the time and a widow who becomes enamoured with Catholicism. The book moves fast and illustrates the issues of the time, such as the ethnic and religious divisions of the city, very well. I enjoyed the read and felt like I'd learned a lot about the era.

    #36 End of an Era, Robert J. Sawyer

    Science fiction by one of Canada's best SF writers. A time machine has been discovered, and two anthropologists are sent back to the Mesozoic to find out in person what caused the end of the dinosaurs. They meet some unexpected life forms and the world is thrown into desperate danger. This was OK but not my favorite Sawyer. For some reason I lost interest towards the end - everything started to seem too unlikely to me.

    #37 Slumdog Millionaire, Vikas Swarup

    A tall tale of an impoverished young man in India who is the unlikely winner of a TV quiz show - Who Will Win A Billion. Subsequently arrested for fraud, the hero is rescued by a young lawyer, to whom he tells the tale of how his life has enabled him to answer the quiz questions correctly. The book differs in many details from the movie, though the main idea is the same. A colourful, enjoyable read.

    #38 Plan B, Further Thoughts on Faith, Anne Lamott

    Collected short pieces where Lamott muses on her life and her Christian faith. Never sanctimonious or preachy, I enjoyed Lamott's humour and her insights, even though I don't share her faith. Good writing about finding meaning which anyone can enjoy.

    #39 When Will There Be Good News, Kate Atkinson

    The third in a trio of novels featuring sometime detective Jackson, this one is as good as the others. The determined sixteen year old nanny of a doctor with a past mounts a search for her missing employer and eventually involves Jackson, who shows up half way through. Atkinson tells her tale from multiple view-points, with characters and their fate more important than the mystery. Excellent.

  • And One More #46 - Almost There

    Posted by Wendy Middleton, 4 years ago

    #46 Her Fearful Symmetry by Audrey Niffenegger
    Because I had enjoyed reading The Time Traveler’s Wife so much, I didn’t wait for Niffenegger’s new novel to be released in paperback either. Again I liked this book. I read recently that she seems to be writing a new genre of supernatural romance, although it wouldn’t have occurred to me to identify her two novels in that way. But Her Fearful Symmetry does involve two sets of identical twins, Highgate Cemetery in London, and ghosts. I read a review in The Globe and Mail a couple of weeks ago that gave away too much information, in my opinion. However, I don’t feel that what I have said would give away anything significant because all of these facts could be learned after reading the first few pages.
    Mirror twins, Julia and Valentina Poole arrive in London from their home in Chicago after their twenty-first birthdays to take over the flat left to them by their unknown late Aunt Elspeth, who was their mother’s identical twin. The flat overlooks Highgate Cemetery. Theirs is the second floor flat. On the ground floor lives Robert, Elspeth’s lover, who is writing a thesis on Highgate Cemetery, and works there as a guide (as did Niffenegger during her research). On the third floor lives Martin, an obsessive compulsive, who has been deserted by his wife, Marijke, who still loves him, but cannot live the way his illness demands anymore. Over the course of the novel, Valentina becomes interested in Robert and Julia tries to help Martin.
    Near the end, the novel becomes quite complex through a scheme launched by Valentina and Elspeth’s ghost. Although it was meant to be serious, I was reminded of the Steve Martin – Lily Tomlin comedy All of Me. The outcome just seemed to say to be careful what you wish for because it may come true. Some characters do end happily, but most could not have predicted what occurred.

    • 3 people found this helpful

    October Reading So Far #43 -45

    Posted by Wendy Middleton, 4 years ago

    #43 The Secret River by Kate Grenville
    A year ago I was in Australia, and this novel was recommended to me. I even picked it up in a bookstore in Sydney, but I ended up not buying it because it cost so much, and I knew that I could buy it cheaper at home, which I could and did. It seems wrong that I can buy an Australian novel cheaper here than I could there, but that situation occurred both in Australia and New Zealand.
    This novel resulted from Grenville’s research into her family history. Although she knew some facts, most of the novel is her fictional imagining about what it would have been like for her real ancestors to be deported from London to Australia as an alternative to hanging for theft. It reminded me of Canadian pioneer literature, especially in the treatment of the natives by the recent arrivals. One significant scene in particular reminded me of The Englishman’s Boy by Guy Vanderhaeghe.
    Early in the novel, I liked the fact that the woman that the main character eventually marries is called Middleton, my surname. I don’t imagine that I am related to Kate Grenville, but I liked seeing my name appear in a novel.

    #44 Death with Interruptions by Jose Saramago
    I have read several of Saramago’s novels now, and I like most of them. One type of novel he writes seems to begin with big “What if?” questions. Blindness is a question of ”What if a portion of the citizens of a city became blind quickly from a plague? How would the rest of the population treat them?” Blindness became very well known, and it was the first Saramago novel that I read. However, his later novel Seeing was so dense that I didn’t get very far with it. It begins with the question “What if a municipal election were held and no one voted?” In the novella Death with Interruptions, Saramago begins with the question “What if no one died for seven months in just one country?” Death with Interruptions is very detached like Seeing is for the first half, but in the second half, once Death has resumed her job, she becomes a character along with the man who won’t die. Perhaps because Death with Interruptions is only two hundred pages long, I was better able to tolerate the lack of characters and real plot for the first half. I prefer the more conventional Saramago novels, like All the Names, but this novella was okay.

    #45 Juliet, Naked by Nick Hornby
    I have been reading Hornby’s novels for only a couple of years, so this is the first time that one has come out in hardcover since I have been reading his work. Because Hornby’s novels are very easy to read, they are the type that I usually wait for in paperback. Some of Hornby’s works have been turned into movies, and he uses dialogue to propel the story usually. This time, however, I decided that I couldn’t wait for the paperback edition, and I enjoyed the work.
    Juliet, Naked is very much a story of 2009. The plot involves a website aimed at devoted fans of a rock musician who disappeared twenty years before. In the text of the novel, there are blogs and emails of the characters' thoughts. People upload music to their iPods. The title of the novel has nothing to do with Romeo and Juliet nor any real woman naked. The most admired album by the rock musician, Tucker Crowe, was called Juliet, and it was based on his relationship with a married woman called Julie. It was while Crowe was touring and promoting this album that he quit the music business and chose to live as a recluse.
    Twenty years later, someone decided to release the demo tapes of Juliet under the title Juliet, Naked. The new release becomes a source of disagreement between Duncan, the man who started and maintains the Tucker Crowe website, and his partner, Annie, who live in England. Duncan immediately posts his glowing review of Juliet, Naked. Annie, who has been the patient companion for Duncan’s Crowe obsession for fifteen years, does not agree that the demo tapes are an improvement over the original album and posts her own thoughts a few days later. She then receives an email from Tucker Crowe, who is living in the U.S., saying that he agrees with her. She keeps this contact with Tucker a secret from Duncan, and Annie and Duncan soon part ways. Of course Annie and Tucker meet eventually, and they seem to have more in common than Annie and Duncan ever did. Overall, I really liked this novel. Hornby does make one aspect very clear at the end; however, I wish that he had gone just a bit further in detailing the outcome of the main characters.

    24) Between Brothers

    Posted by Virtopia, 4 years ago

    This book took me quite awhile to get into . . . I brought it on vacation with me and only got in about 20 pages, but once I spent an afternoon really getting into the synopsis, there was no stopping it. It was a nice ending and I appreciated the realistic aspects of the story.

    • 2 people found this helpful

    Book 81 - Desert Flower by Waris Dirie

    Posted by Unknown User, 4 years ago

    -Message Deleted-

    • 1 person found this helpful

    Book 53 and 54

    Posted by Midnight Sunrise, 4 years ago

    53. Cirque du Freak the Manga Volume 3
    Great! I just love this manga! It's absolutely amazing and it follows the books almost perfectly. 5 stars!

    54. Maximum Ride the Manga Volume 2
    Another great manga series that follows the original James Patterson series of the mutant bird kids. Love it! 5 stars.

  • Still in a slump....

    Posted by Kay, 4 years ago

    so thought I would check out what other people are reading. I have gone out and purchased two new books this week thinking they would get me going again. They are now with my stack of books that I have started and not finished - up to ten now.
    I have never had a slump like this before and finding it a little unnerving.
    I always find it interesting to come and read all the postings. Any suggestions for something very light and that can be read over a weekend.......

  • 41/50

    Posted by Amanda Augustine, 4 years ago

    41. The Time Of My Life - Patrick Swayze and Lisa Niemi
    This is no where near the typical type of books I like to read, but few other autobiographies have ever peaked my interest. I was surprised to learn that Patrick was an extremely self-conscious man. He tells us that being "Swayze" meant that you had to strive to be better, even when you were the best there was always room to be better. He tells stories of been roughed around by bullies as a child, how he just had to make Lisa fall in love with him, the almost ending of their 30+ year marriage, to of course his final battle with cancer. Their story was an incredible journey to be taken on. The ups of his striving career and his battles with depression. Their beautiful dancing ability and the problems with his knee that ended his dancing career. His falling in love with Lisa, their spontaneous wedding, to the almost divorce of their 30+ year marriage. His cheating death on more than one occasion before his diagnosis. I have to admit the courage that they showed through his battle with cancer, the "this things never gonna get me attitude" at the end of the book, made me cry.

  • OCTOBER 72 - 76

    Posted by Christine L, 4 years ago

    Happy Hallowe'en all. October being the month of “ghoulies and ghosties”, and noticing two promising reads, I decided to revisit one of my favourite genres – the horror story. I have not read a really good ghost story since HEART SHAPED BOX and had high hopes for the first two books on my list, especially since one had been written by the author of the EXCORIST. Sometimes reputation is hard to live up to.

    72. ELSEWHERE by William Peter Blatty. The story of a haunted house on a remote island on the Hudson River. The real estate agent commissioned to sell the home hires a team of parapsychologists to clear out the ghosts. The book was described as “witty and intriguing”. It had it’s moments, but definitely lacked originality. In this familiar scenario THE HAUNTING OF HELL HOUSE is still the top contender in by opinion.

    73. THE BIRTHING HOUSE by Christopher Ransom. Another house, this time more “possessed” than haunted. It was a reasonably fresh idea, but I felt there was too much extraneous character development, some really interesting ideas that were presented and then not followed through and the whole bang of the story was in the last twenty five pages. By that time I almost didn’t care anymore.

    74. DANCE, DANCE, DANCE by Haruki Murakami. I enjoyed this book very much! That being said, it was a book with an identity crisis. I couldn’t place it into any specific genre … it contains supernatural elements, explores topics ranging from teenage angst to murder to psychological drama and trauma right through to personal and sexual relationships. All told in the first person, in a very entertaining way, by our hero Hiraku Makimura (interestingly enough an anagram of the author’s name).

    75. THE LOST SYMBOL by Dan Brown. In this much anticipated follow up to THE DAVINCI CODE we once again visit with Robert Langdon. In this book the conspiracy centers not around art or religion but rather the Masons and secret societies in Washington. This book is what it is … and entertaining romp with a lot of action, a lot of Washington history and monuments and a not so surprising twist at the end. Although he has taken a lot of flack from a lot of readers, I would continue reading Dan Brown because I enjoy the escape into Robert Langdon’s improbable world.

    76. FROSTBITTEN by Kelley Armstrong. Another in the WOMEN OF THE OTHERWORLD series bringing back Elena (the only female werewolf), her mate Clay and Jeremy and his entourage. This book introduces us to a new species of supernaturals, the “Shifters” and also gives a little glimpse in to where the series may be headed. Although I did enjoy the book and am a loyal follower of Ms. Armstrong and her books, for my personal taste this one had a little too much action and not enough meat in the story (no pun intended).

  • #40 Twilight by Stephanie Meyer

    Posted by Christine, 4 years ago

    A couple of years ago, when my daughter was in 10th grade, we were browsing in a book store and she mentioned this book which had white hands holding an apple on its cover. Many of her schoolmates were dragging it everywhere at school. We found it, and she loved it. I was somewhat curious to this story which seemed to have put a spell on her and her friends. I was a little leary at picking it up for I do have enough real life drama at home with my teenage daughter. I had to read it this month for it was our bookclub's book of the month (selected by our youngest member). I will not read the sequels. A coworker of mine read all four books and loved them. I did ask how the story developped and I was somewhat impressed by Meyer's imagination. I believe this series is geared more towards the young romantics at heart. The "Oh, he is so beautiful, and I love him sooooo much!!!" drama of teenage love drives me insane. I did enjoy the action in the ending of the story though.
    (thank God). 2/5

    Book 80 - The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown

    Posted by Unknown User, 4 years ago

    -Message Deleted-

    • 1 person found this helpful

    81 - 85

    Posted by Cathy, 4 years ago

    81. How Not to Murder Your Mother -by Stephanie Calman
    I have enjoyed all of Stephanie Calman’s collections of funny, true essays. About her relationship with her aging mother, this book was a little less appealing in spots (maybe because I can sympathize more with the mother), but how much she loves her mother shines through. I also enjoy Claire Calman’s novels, and like to read about her as a real person in the works of Stephanie (her sister).

    82. Something I’ve Been Meaning to Tell You -by Alice Munro
    Short stories aren’t my favorite thing to read, but Alice Munro does the short story well.

    83. Mom, Will This Chicken Give Me Man Boobs? -by Robyn Harding
    A funny memoir of a Vancouver mom doing her best be environmentally friendly, while maintaining her sanity in the morass of conflicting “green” information. I have also read one of Harding’s novels and enjoyed that too, although she does rely quite heavily on the exclamation point.

    84. Plum Spooky -by Janet Evanovich
    Not really spooky, but Evanovich is fun as usual.

    85. Say You’re One of Them -by Uwem Akpan
    I am glad I read this, Oprah’s latest book club selection. Though it was not an enjoyable read, it does broaden your world view and open your eyes to the plight of children in Africa (and confirm for me that Africa is not a tourist destination).

  • #39-Life Studies by Susan Vreeland

    Posted by Christine, 4 years ago

    This is a novel about art and artists which compels stories about how art has the power to transform someone. Each of the short stories is a fictional account of either an artist or a person whose life has changed through art. It is divided in three sections: Then, which covers the impressionist and post-impressionist periods and deals with the lives of the artists (Renoir, Monet,Morisot,Manet,VanGogh,Modigliani and Cezanne);Interlude, which is a story of two rustic Italians who travel Rome to experience art: and Now, which are stories of average people who are affected by art in extraordinary ways.
    Art is a big part of my life,and I'm loving it. 4.5/5

    #49 - Rumpole on Trial - John Mortimer 3.5 / 5

    Posted by Shanie [Raksha], 4 years ago

    Enjoy the "Eternal Triangle"...

    A collection of 7 short stories, some (3?) of which have been 'televised' on PBS - but Mortimer's stories are just so much more fun when read! Shared this one aloud with husband - CNIB couldn't supply it.

    • 2 people found this helpful

    #64 Labor Day

    Posted by Lisa Voss, 4 years ago

    This is the story of Henry and his mother and one fateful Labor Day weekend. I loved this book. It is emotional and had me crying. It also has a cover which seems to have no bearing on the story at all. This is one time to definitely NOT judge a book by it's cover.

    Although I don't usually rate books I would give this one a 5/5

    • 1 person found this helpful

    Book 52: Pride by Rachel Vincent

    Posted by Midnight Sunrise, 4 years ago

    The third book in Vincent's Werecats series, Pride was filled with action, suspence, romance, and more. Can't wait to get started on the fourth book, Prey! :) 4*

  • Wow is it really the middle of October? 37-40

    Posted by Amanda Augustine, 4 years ago

    With trying to pack up my belongings, and trying to renovate my grandparents home so that we can move into the house, the time is flying by so fast, I didn't even make a post in September. So these are my books for last month and this month. I hope I make 50, but once the house is done, my new reading library will be the perfect place to hit 100 next year!

    37. The Broken Window - Jeffery Deaver
    Eighth in the Rhyme series, this book takes us through the very scary world of identity theft via data miners. This was a god book but I'm finding that the suspense and trickery of his earlier books is waning. Maybe reading something else by him will bring that back.

    38. Manhattan Is My Beat - Jeffery Deaver
    Odd, very odd, but entertaining.

    39. True Detectives - Jonathan Kellerman
    I like that he's introduced 2 new characters and brought them into more than one book (the first time we meet them is in Bones). I hope that he keeps going with these 2 very opposite characters.

    40. Have A Little Faith - Mitch Albom
    Although I didn't know if I would like this book because it was all about religion, I picked this up because I loved Mitch's other books. This one is based on his own personal experience with his Rabbi and how, though Mitch has really shied away from his Jewish faith, he wants Mitch to give his eulogy. It also has a tie in with a convicted felon turned pastor. Reb's (that's what he calls his Rabbi) story of his faith in God, and his philosophies on life, were comical at times but very touching. And Pastor Henry's journey through the deep world of addiction finally brings him to stick with Christianity, and become a man of God. The two worlds yet so different by faith and custom, are so equally the same on the values of generosity and the love you can share with all. Which is what this book I believe is really about. Also Mitch has decided to give 10% of the profits from this book to charity including the Hole In The Roof Foundation. So a great read and you're supporting a great cause. To see more about Pastor Henry's cause and others like his visit www.aholeintheroof.com.

  • 61 - 63

    Posted by Lisa Voss, 4 years ago

    I seem to be on the same reading track as last year. I think I read about 75 books in total. I may get a few more this year although it depends on what I choose next. I have the new Diana Gabaldon in my pile which I think may take awhile.

    61. The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown. I thought it started a little slow, picked up wonderfully in the middle and almost lost me entirely by the end. A little too much talking, not enough action and are these people superhuman or what?

    62. The Elephant Keeper by Christopher Nicholson. A young man in18th century England becomes the caretaker of 2 elephants. I enjoyed this book to some extent. I thought the writing was very good and the tale, for the most part, entertaining. I can't imagine having an elephant on my estate (although for some reason my farm on Facebook's Farmville has several lol) It made me want to reread The White Bone by Barbara Gowdy which is comprised of only elephants and written from their perspective.

    63. Town House by Tish Cohen. I loved this book. A man with severe agoraphobia lives with his son in the Boston town house once owned by his late rock star father. The characters are wonderful and the story is enchanting. I don't often use that word in a sentence but I can't think of any other. I will definitely read Ms Cohen's Inside Out Girl.

    • 2 people found this helpful

    #27 and #28 I'm still plugging away...

    Posted by BookThia, 4 years ago

    #27 was Disgrace by JM Coetzee. A Booker-prize shortlisted novel that was deep and layered and difficult to read. But worthwhile.

    #28 In a Sunburned Country by Bill Bryson. I read this because my husband gets to go to Australia for business and I have to stay home. So I read about Australia instead... and now.... I'm even MORE jealous, LOL. Bryson is a great writer who goes beyond the "typical" when creating a travelogue.

  • Wonderful read...

    Posted by Shanie [Raksha], 4 years ago

    A wonderful read for everyone

    #48 - In Flanders Fields : the Story of the Poem 5 / 5 - in preparation for November.
    While rated as "4 - 6" was used for reluctant & ESL teen students. This is a terrific introduction to the poem that we hear on Remembrance Day - and should be read by all youngsters. I'd recommend this for 4 - 6 with parents; on its own for 7 - 9 yr olds, & always for ESL readers in conjuction with any school curriculum dealing with World War I. Should be in every Canadian household with children as the background of this poem is rarely taught these days. Altho' I knew & recited the poem, even I did not know the story until I used this with ESL students. Shame on us!

  • 7th OCTET

    Posted by Booktasia, 4 years ago

    Considering Kate – Nora Roberts – 3.5/5 – Chick lit

    Kate comes home from her career as a New York dancer to build her own school. However, her contractor Brody, is just the guy for her although he wants nothing to do with women. She tries to win him over with her wit and charm.

    The Collected Short Stories – Jeffrey Archer – 3.5/5 – Fiction

    Short works by Jeffrey Archer. A must read for his fans. I loved Christina Rosenthal and You’ll Never Live to Regret It.

    Any Known Blood - Lawrence Hill – 3.5/5 – Fiction

    The plight of negroes and the underground railway from the mid 1800’s to the mid 1900’s. Follow the Cane’s through time and witness first hand their trials and tribulations. Too much detail for me.

    I Capture the Castle – Dodie Smith - 3/5 – Fiction

    Cassandra Mortmain is 17. Her journal describes the weird and wonderful world in which she lives: housed in a crumbling castle, with her writer father (who is "blocked"), her beautiful older sister Rose, her brainy younger brother and her unconventional artist stepmother, Topaz. The sudden arrival of two handsome American strangers is the catalyst for this touching coming-of-age tale, which sees Cassandra taking her first forays in womanhood not without her fair share of grief and giggles. Written in a style similar to Jane Austen (in my opinion). The kids decide to lock the father in the dungeon so he can get back to writing. Interesting… kids putting the parents in the dungeon.

    The Romantic – Barbara Gowdy – 3.5/5 – Fiction

    For lovers of literary fiction, The Romantic is Barbara Gowdy’s utterly absorbing tale of love, longing, and loss. It is the story of Louise, whose former beautyqueen mother disappears one day, leaving a note that reads only and incorrectly that Louise knows how to work the washing machine. Louise does everything in her power to find her mother.

    The Film Club – David Gilmour - 3/5 – NON – Fiction

    From the 2005 winner of the Governor-General’s Award for Fiction and the former national film critic for CBC television comes a delightful and absorbing book about the agonies and joys of home-schooling a beloved son. Written in the spare elegant style he is known for, "The Film Club" is the true story about David Gilmour’s decision to let his 15-year-old son drop out of high school on the condition that the boy agrees to watch three films a week with him. It explores their relationship and the son’s relationship with others.

    The Colour of Magic – Terry Pratchett – 3.5/5 – Youth

    1st in the discworld series. On a world supported on the back of a giant turtle (sex unknown), a gleeful, explosive, wickedly eccentric expedition sets out. There''s an avaricious but inept wizard, a naive tourist whose luggage moves on hundreds of dear little legs, dragons who only exist if you believe in them, and of course THE EDGE of the planet... Something for everyone. Definitely kept my interest.

    Guards! Guards! – Terry Pratchett – 3.5/5 – Fiction
    Here there be dragons...and the denizens of Ankh-Morpork wish one huge firebreather would return from whence it came. Long believed extinct, a superb specimen of draco nobilis ("noble dragon" for those who don't understand italics) has appeared in Discworld's greatest city. Not only does this unwelcome visitor have a nasty habit of charbroiling everything in its path, in rather short order it is crowned King (it is a noble dragon, after all...).

  • #54 - - Do Onto Otters -- A Book About Manners

    Posted by Joanna, 4 years ago

    This wonderful book written and illustrated by Laurie Keller is a must for anyone with young children

    A humorous look at the Golden rule and manners.for all of us. "Mr. Rabbit’s new neighbors are the Otters. OTTERS! But he doesn’t know anything about otters. Will they get along? Will they be friends? Just treat otters the same way you’d like them to treat you, advises Mr. Owl." —simply follow the Golden Rule! The book not only teaches manners but does so in 5 languages. My 30 month old grandson loves this book and its funny look at Manners -- never tease "Sorry I called you a Snotter" is one of his favorites.

    5***** (as rated by a under 3)

    • 2 people found this helpful

    23) The Conversation

    Posted by Virtopia, 4 years ago

    Didn't disappoint at all . . .

    I'm a fan of Hill Harper and when I heard that he had a new book out about African American relationships, I had to run out and get it and it did not disappoint. It was a great read, with personal and friends' insight on the many facets that are involved in a relationship. It was a great read and I'll be recommending it near and far.

    Book 51: Rogue by Rachel Vincent

    Posted by Midnight Sunrise, 4 years ago

    A great sequel to her first book, Stray, Vincent has once again created another breathtaking and astounding read! 5 stars!

    • 3 people found this helpful

    #47 - George's Secret Key to the University 5+ / 5

    Posted by Shanie [Raksha], 4 years ago

    My best tween/teen read for 2009!

    I try to 'pre-read' most titles that I send to my grandsons and this one has to be the best for 2009! Everything that you wanted to know (but were afraid to admit your ignorance...) about the Universe logically packed into an INCREDIBLY great mystery! Could not put this down! Have bought 2 more copies for other Tweens/Teens as gifts. If you have an otherwise luke-warm science 'scholar', then get this title & the sequel - George's Cosmic Treasure Hunt - science teachers will thank you! I'll post my review on the latter sometime next week. We need higher Maple Leaf rankings...

  • #42 A Book of No Interest to Most People

    Posted by Wendy Middleton, 4 years ago

    Guide to the Quaker Parrot by Mattie Sue Athan

    #42 Guide to the Quaker Parrot by Mattie Sue Athan
    This is a very specific volume of interest to only a few, but having acquired a baby Quaker parrot two weeks ago, it was essential reading for me. Athan provides very good ideas for housing, feeding and training a Quaker parrot, many of which were echoed by my vet and vet tech during my visit with them. Having never had children, I have never turned to Dr. Spock and other baby guides, but I am sure that many new parents have the same fears and doubts that I have. On one hand, I appreciated what the author (and the vets) said, but when it comes to not giving your parrot power by allowing him to sit on your shoulder, I have to feel that it is impossible to spoil a baby parrot, just as it is impossible to spoil a human baby. Unfortunately his terrible twos arrive in just a few months, so I guess I will have to give up the lovely cuddling that I have been indulging him with so far. Athan has also written a Guide to the Well Behaved Parrot, which I have added to my Wish List.

    • This is my parrot, Mickey.

  • #39 - #41 - The Rest of September

    Posted by Wendy Middleton, 4 years ago

    #39 Company of Liars by Karen Maitland
    When I chose this novel, I was under the impression that it had something to do with Geoffrey Chaucer and the pilgrimage to Canterbury, but only the cover illustration came from Chaucer. However, that illustration was an appropriate choice since this novel is set during the 14th Century and involves a group of strangers travelling together. Since I read this story soon after World Without End, I felt at times that I was back reading Ken Follett’s novel, as once again the Black Death is the main enemy of this group. And again there is a wise healing woman, who is part of the group. However, she is the first of the company to die, so they do not get the advantage of her wisdom for long. In many ways this is a mystery novel because one by one various members of the group die in strange ways, but not from the plague. Each person in the group has a secret, hence the liar of the title, and as their secrets are revealed, each one loses his or her life. The story is told by Camelot, a seller of relics, whose secret is hinted at part way through the story, so it was no surprise to me when it was revealed at the end. The meanderings of the group seem to be influenced by a young girl, Narigorm, who sees the future and the truth through the rune stones that she carries. Overall this is a good story, which gives real insight into what life was like during this time period.

    #40 The Year of the Flood by Margaret Atwood
    I loved this novel and have written a more detailed review, which can be found on my profile page or at www.chapters.indigo.ca/books/The-Year-Of-The-Flood-Margaret-Atwood/9780771008443-item.html?ref=Search+Books%3a+%2527The+Year+of+the+Flood%2527
    I always admire Margaret Atwood’s writing, and I am amazed at her ability to write in so many styles and on so many subjects. However, there are times when I feel distanced from her work, appreciating the beauty of the language and style and the cleverness of her imagery and inventiveness, without really becoming involved with the characters of her work. At first I would have said the same thing about The Year of the Flood, but as I kept reading, all the various elements took over, and by the end, I was really involved with the story, which left me with many unanswered questions since this is the second book of a trilogy.
    The Flood of the title is actually a plague that affects most human beings on Earth, so once again I was reminded of the Black Plague that I had been reading about recently. Although The Year of the Flood is set somewhere in the near future, the attempts to survive are surprising similar, even though the means are quite different.
    We see the Flood approaching through the sermons and hymns of God’s Gardeners, a fringe group that tries to tread lightly on the Earth and honours all species, both surviving and extinct, and who uses the term “waterless flood” to describe the plague that they anticipate. We also learn of the time leading up to it through the flashbacks of two women who manage to survive the Flood. Both Toby and Ren have been members of God’s Gardeners in the past, and luck , plus their training with the Gardeners, has helped them to survive when most human beings do not.
    The breadth of Atwood’s imagination is shown in her creation of this future world that has resulted from our own, and through those sermons and hymns, which are as important to the narrative as Toby’s and Ren’s stories are. She has invented an entire host of saints for God’s Gardeners, drawn from contemporary environmentalists. My favourite was St. Farley of the Wolves.
    As I said in the title of my review, I can’t wait for the next book in this series to see where Atwood goes with her version of the future.

    #41 Oryx and Crake by Margaret Atwood
    Because characters from Atwood’s previous novel are involved in The Year of the Flood, as soon as I finished her new book, I wanted to re-read its predecessor to find more of the links. I had liked Oryx and Crake when I read it five years ago, but having just read The Year of the Flood, I have to admit that the newer book is far superior. In fact Oryx and Crake is very bleak in comparison, with the main character, Jimmy, feeling that he is left alone on the Earth with only a new race of simpler, more environmentally- friendly people for his companions. While Jimmy is the only surviving human character, he is not an admirable person.
    Much of the framework of the world that both novels inhabit is laid out in this first book, but the amusing and inventive ideas are really not developed fully until The Year of the Flood. Also I had forgotten how abruptly Oryx and Crake ended, leading right to the final scenes of The Year of the Flood. So we are going to need Atwood’s next volume to tie up all the loose ends and answer the questions of how she sees the future developing in this wonderfully imaginative world she has created.

  • Book 78 - Susannah's Garden by Debbie Macomber

    Posted by Unknown User, 4 years ago

    -Message Deleted-

  • #38-The Vinyl Cafe Unplugged by Stuart McLean

    Posted by Christine, 4 years ago

    I enjoy these light humourus short stories especially during coffee breaks at work. It alleviates the seriousness and stress from the workplace.
    Dave and Morley would no doubt tell you that life is what you make it. Unfortunately for them, that means a compilation tape of mistakes, miscues, misunderstandings and muddle. That's not to say there is anything particularly unusual about the family and friends at the Vinyl Cafe. Like the rest of us, Dave, Morley, Stephanie and Sam are just doing their best to respond to the challenges of modern life.
    After all, who hasn't started a small home fix-it job only to set fire to walls and destroy whole rooms? Who wouldn't try to toilet-train a cat? Who hasn't created mass hysteria and utter pandemonium at a school concert? Who hasn't lost an aging relative while visiting our nation's capital? Thanks again Stuart for all the belly laughs. 4.0

  • #37-The Girl Who Played with Fire by Stieg Larsson

    Posted by Christine, 4 years ago

    This book is the second novel in the million-selling Millennium Trilogy by Swedish writer Stieg Larsson. It was published posthumously in Swedish in 2006 and in English in January 2009.
    The book features many of the characters that appeared in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, among them Lisbeth Salander, the "Girl" of the title and a social misfit hacker, and Mikael Blomkvist, a leftist journalist and publisher of Millennium magazine.
    Widely seen as a critical success, The Girl Who Played with Fire was also (according to The Bookseller magazine) the first and only translated novel to be number one in the UK hardback chart.
    We get to learn about Lisbeth's younger life in this second book.

    The Girl Who Kicked the Hornets' Nest is the third and final novel in Larsson's Millinium Trilogy. It was published posthumously in Swedish in 2007 and was published in English in the UK in October 2009. The Swedish title literally means "The Air Castle that was blown up". Luftslott ("Air castle") is used in Swedish to designate a pipe dream. I can't wait to get my hands on it. I really like Lisbeth Salander's character. 4.5

    • 2 people found this helpful

    Book 77 - Songs For The Missing by Stewart O`Nan

    Posted by Unknown User, 4 years ago

    -Message Deleted-

  • Book 76 - Light A Penny Candle by Maeve Binchy

    Posted by Unknown User, 4 years ago

    -Message Deleted-

  • Book 75 - Hokus Pokus by Fern Michaels

    Posted by Unknown User, 4 years ago

    -Message Deleted-

  • Way Behind on Posting

    Posted by Denise Nielsen, 4 years ago

    Way behind with reviews, but I’ve been busy with my own blog/the kids going back to school/work/writing/harvest …etc. Apologies for the length of this one.

    57. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by Rowling – Re-reading, with my daughter
    58. Robin Hood – Reading aloud to Kids
    59. Tales of King Arthur – Reading aloud to Kids
    60. Domestic Goddess and Feast both by Nigella Lawson – we had a recipe book themed book club and I chose these because I love the way she writes. She cracked me up talking about Valentine’s Day and Christmas Puddings fit for the scarlet whore of Babylon
    61. The Weekend Man by Richard B Wright – underwhelmed, from a writer I’ve liked in the past. Why is so much modern literature so uneventful. Maybe it is just me?
    62. The Scream by Rohinton Mistry – Interesting, short, monologue by an old man. Probably wouldn’t read it again.
    63. Candide by Voltaire – a surprise snatch from the library and I got different things out of it than the last time I read it (20 years ago, I’d guess)
    64. The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy – I couldn’t get into this, though my understanding is that others have loved it. Be interested in your opinions if you have.
    65. Go Jump In The Pool by George Korman – book club friends were horrified at this perceived gap in my reading and introduced me to the works of this author. It’s very different reading kid books for the first time as an adult – I think half the magic comes from your own memories.
    66. Katherine by Anya Seton – As a fan of good historical fiction (as opposed to historic romances), I am only surprised it’s taken me this long to read this. Seton – along with Jean Plaidy – ruled this genre in the 1950-60’s and this story of John of Gaunt and his love for Katherine was captivating.
    67. Adrian Mole by Sue Townsend – enjoying another foray into kidlit with this classic.
    68. A Breath of Snow and Ashes by Diana Gabaldon – Been getting ready for the latest DG novel. I find the later novels don’t sustain the sheer delight of the first two in the Outlander series, but having said that, they’re still really, really fun to read.
    69. Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens – I was reading an article on Arts & Letters Daily (a favourite web site) about the demise of the “canon”. It may or may not be, but I like the “canon” and reading this one yet again, I know why: no matter how often you read great literature, you can always find something new to appreciate.

    • 4 people found this helpful

    45 - 48

    Posted by Kay, 4 years ago

    I am slowly approaching the 50 mark. I have been in such an off and on mode for reading these days. Updating my list with books read since mid September.

    45 - The Constant Princess by Philippa Gregory 4/5
    My daughter recommended this series and I am glad she did. I enjoyed this book (historical fiction) because it did provide a view of Katherine of Aragon. Looking forward to The Other Boleyn Girl.
    46 - The Devil's Door by Sharan Newman 4/5
    This book was not as good as the first but very enjoyable none the less. I will continue to read the series of Catherin LeVendeur (historical fiction).
    47 - Hide & Seek by Ian Rankin 4/5
    I find it hard to describe Rankin's writing. It brings uncomfortable images to mind but that is the purpose of this type of novel, is it not? Takes place in Scotland - murder, black magic and of course, Detective Rebus. I am definitely hooked on Rankin.
    48 - Circle of Quilters by Jennifer Chiaverini
    One more of the Elm Creek series. Some of the original members of the Elm Creek quilting group are moving on and replacements are needed. This book introduces you to the five serious contenders for the two positions. Only one of my choices was selected and it was interesting to compare why decisions were made. I find when reading these books I feel like I am catching up with good friends. non the less I will continue to read this series.

  • 2009 Giller Shortlist

    Posted by Shanie [Raksha], 4 years ago

    Shortlisted for 2009 Giller

    Just read the Giller Shortlist announcement - Winner to be named on Nov. 10/09. Here are the titles:
    The Winter Vault - Anne Michaels
    The Bishop's Man - Linden MacIntyre
    The Golden Mean - Annabel Lyon
    The Disappeared - Kim Echlin
    Fall - Colin McAdam

    Query - has anyone reviewed these in 50 Books as yet? Have I missed the posting? Is anyone currently reading any of the above?

  • #52 & 53 -- Two Mysteries -- two books well worth reading -- Both by ex Journalists

    Posted by Joanna, 4 years ago

    #52 -- The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson -- LOVED THIS BOOK --

    What a great mystery by a Swedish writer who died before any of his books were published. Larsson died in 2004 just after he delivered 3 manuscripts to his publisher. His first book has sold over 12,000,000 copies and is about to be made into a movie.

    I stayed up well into the night reading this mystery and would highly recommend it to all mystery lovers. I actually read it while the plane I was on had a small fire!!!

    This is the story of an investigative reporter who is charged with libel and has to serve jail time. Mikael resigns as publisher to Millennium magazine then takes on the Mystery of the Vanger family and a 16 yr old who went missing 40 years ago -- I won't spoil the story BUT I have to say that although I have piles of books at home I am buying the sequel as soon as I'm near a book store.

    5*****

    #53 Mystery Man by Collin Bateman -- My first book by this Irish writer and a laugh out loud novel as stated (by Ian Rankin) on the cover.

    The owner of a Mystery Book Store who is never named takes on the clients of the PI from next door, who has mysteriously gone missing. With the personality disorders and quirks of the man with no name this book is very funny.

    I've picked up another of Bateman's books which is strangely set in Niagara Falls (he must have some ties to Canada as The Toronto Star is mentioned in The Mystery man)

    4****

  • October Goodies (so far)

    Posted by Shanie [Raksha], 4 years ago

    4 out of 5, but another Hillerman winner!

    #41 - People of Darkness, Tony Hillerman 4 / 5
    Oil, mineral rights, witches, greed & murder - Sgt. Chee of the Navaho Tribal Police, is the central character in this one. You will be unhappy if you have to put this one down. Each Hillerman book makes me want to read ANOTHER!

    #42 - Backstage with Julia, by Nancy Verde Barr 4.5 / 5
    A bio of the relationship between Julia Child & the woman who became her Executive Chef for 18 years, as well as her friend for 24 years. This is well worth the read, not only for the insight into Julia Child, but also because of how Julia Child & her husband affected Ms. Barr. I thoroughly enjoyed it! Whether or not you enjoyed Julie & Julia, you will definitely enjoy reading about the reality of Julia's work in the US and its effect on others.

    #43 - The Saddlemaker's Wife, by Earlene Fowler 3.5 / 5
    A departure from her usual character, but her trademark strong & unintimated female character is the central person - deals with loss and friendship in unexpected places. This is a good 'light' read.

    #44 - I Love Yoga, by Ellen Schwartz 5 / 5
    Forget the age range listed. This is a great book on Yoga for any age group. Ms. Schwartz doesn't dumb down instructions, cautions, etc. Frankly, I enjoyed it - got me back into meditation. On the plus side, my daughter is now using it with the 3 grandkids ( 4, 8, & 13) and they, too, love it.

    #45 - Julia Child by Laura Shapiro 3.5 / 5
    A bio of Julia Child - wanted to read this as a results of our discussions around Julie & Julia. Part of the Penguin Lives Series. Not as "fun" as Backstage, but informative.

    #46 - Rumpole a la Carte, John Mortimer 5 / 5
    A re-read... a collection of 6 short stories about my favourite British barrister (btw Mortimer was the writer for the BBC's Brideshead Revisited). Irreverant, crusty, & a wit par excellence (married to 'She Who Must Be Obeyed!') - an excellent barrister for the 'everyman' in British society. Look for any of Mortimer's Rumpole books that you can find, you won't regret getting acquainted with him...

  • How far are you so far?

    Posted by Bookmason, 4 years ago

    Midnight Sunrise just made 50 books. I was wondering how many have made it, surpassed it or are still struggling towards it this year.

    Please respond to the poll so we can find out where we all are!

    • Poll 23 votes

      50 Books Yet?

      Have you made 50 books yet this year.? Are you close?

  • Book 50 (!): Stray by Rachel Vincent

    Posted by Midnight Sunrise, 4 years ago

    I MADE IT TO 50!!
    Okay, anyways...Wow. I absolutely loved Stray! It was an amazing book full of action, suspence and romance. Can't wait to get started on the next book! 5/5

  • #36-The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown

    Posted by Christine, 4 years ago

    I was very leary about my review on this book, for I'm afraid to come across as a literature snob. My first impulse was to say, "Don't waste your time and money" on this book, and I thought, "What is wrong with me? You should like it. It's so popular." But some of my guilt was lifted after reading some other reviews. Dan Brown's suspense writing tactic irked my nerve endings. The over-used "Oh My God!" approach at the end of most every chapter was too much for me. I lost interest half way through the book and quickly skimmed lightly and briefly through the rest in less than an hour. The New York Times praised the book as being "impossible to put down" and claimed Brown is "bringing sexy back to a genre that had been left for dead". Nevertheless, it noted the overuse of certain phrases and italics, as well as the lack of logic behind characters' motivations. Los Angeles Times said, "Brown's narrative moves rapidly, except for those clunky moments when people sound like encyclopedias." The subjects Brown touches are interesting and I'm thinking that maybe I should give it a second chance. I had never heard of Noetic sciences. Maybe I'll pick it up some other time. 2.5/5

  • LATE, BUT HERE GOES ... SEPTEMBER 65 - 71

    Posted by Christine L, 4 years ago

    65. THE ELEPHANT KEEPER by Christopher Nicholson. I seemed to fall into a little bit of a rut with elephant books in September. As a young boy Tom Page becomes “the elephant keeper” when two nearly dead Indian elephants are off loaded from a ship in Bristol England. In the late 18th century not a lot was known about elephants in England and Tom Page shares his learning experience with us in the pages of this book. A beautiful book … I loved it.

    66. WHEN ELEPHANTS WEEP: THE EMOTIONAL LIFE OF ANIMALS by Jeffrey Moussaief Masson. The book presents the argument that animals of all types have feelings, emotions, feel pain and heartache and can feel and express love. For me personally, having been pleasantly owned by pets my whole life, this book was not a stretch in believability. It is an entertaining and well presented argument for the positive.

    67. SOMETHING MI*SING by Matthew Dicks. A career burglar with OCD, Martin is the most unusual criminal I have yet to read about. He only takes things people will not miss (barbecue sauce, a tomato, a cup of laundry detergent or a roll of toilet paper) so he can revisit the homes of his “clients” over a period of years. He gets to know them and their habits through their diaries, pictures and events written on calendars. They become his friends. When he inadvertently “helps” one the snowball starts rolling and his orderly life becomes chaotic. Excellent read with a most original story concept.

    68. THE PERFECT SCENT – A YEAR INSIDE THE PERFUME INDUSTRY IN PARIS AND NEW YORK by Chandler Burr. As the very long title suggests this is a nonfiction account of the perfume industry discussing everything from the conception of the famous No. 5 to the process from beginning to end, of getting a perfume into the marketplace. It follows the new Sarah Jessica Parker fragrance. Despite the fact that some parts are very “chemist technical” I found the book an interesting read, with a few juicy tidbits of information thrown in about those famous fragrances (men’s and women’s) that we know so well.

    69. SCAVENGER by David Morrell. I discovered David Morell (who wrote First Blood) quite by accident and he has quickly become one of my favourite thriller writers. Although he began publishing before David Baldacci, it’s the only style I can compare it to. Scavenger lets revisit with Frank and Amanda (from Creepers) as they innocently get dragged into a real-life “video game”. The usual thrills with some humour thrown in, as well as some interesting facts about time capsules. I also got a little bit of THE WIZARD OF OZ dejavu happening as I read this … wondering if anyone else read it and had the same feeling?

    70. THE FIFTH PROFESSION by David Morell. A fast paced trip through, Japan, Europe and the U.S.A. with some good plot turns, interesting twists and lots of actions. The life of an “executive protector” is always interesting, but what do you do when everything you have known to be true turns out to be a lie. That’s the question facing Savage and Akira in novel.

    71. ALREADY DEAD by Charlie Huston. A strange “vyrus” is creating more zombies than is good for Manhatten. Enter the super sleuth vampire Joe Pitt. A non-traditional take on the vampire culture as lived in NYC. Interesting enough for a change of pace read.

  • Where did September go?

    Posted by ChrisM, 4 years ago

    I didn't make any headway in September with my reading...and work has been *so* busy instead of reading I've been marking and prepping so I've only got two books to add to my list.

    37. The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery
    You may recall that I tried to read this before...and gave up about half way through. Then my regular book club chose it and I felt I'd better give it another go. I managed to finish and I liked it better this time around, but I didn't LOVE it.

    38. Talking to the Dead by Helen Dunmore
    A beautifully written book (Dunmore writes nothing *but* beautiful books), but I didn't love it.

    Giveaway

    Posted by Nicchic, 4 years ago

    I have just posted a giveaway on my blog for three participants to each win one of the following: The Historian, Perfume: Story of a Murderer, and Shadow of the Wind. To win just comment on the post. Good luck!!!

    myobsessionwithbooks.blogspot.com/

    I'll be posting my next 20 reads soon. Its been a much slower year for me reading-wise. Hoping for a more prolific fall!

    • 1 person found this helpful

    Book 49: The Dangerous Days of Daniel X by James Patterson

    Posted by Midnight Sunrise, 4 years ago

    I found the writing style for this book a little childish. Not one of Patterson's best teen books, but the storyline was pretty good. 2.5/5

    • 1 person found this helpful

    Missed one in September

    Posted by Bookmason, 4 years ago

    Irreverant, shocking and hilarious. I'm running out of Chuck books quickly.

    Can't believe I missed a book since I've been reading so few lately.

    81 - Survivor by Chuck Paliniuk. Another he Chuck's strangely wonderful books. Don't know why I liked this one so much, a very unlikely story of a media messiah and his doomed last hours. Thoroughly enjoyed this and buzzed through last 100 pages in less then two hours. Only 2 or 3 Chuck books including Pygmy left to read and with most Lethem's read I'm going to have to search out another odd author or two.

  • Ack, where did summer go?

    Posted by Charity, 4 years ago

    I have been so busy I haven't had a chance to post what I've been reading! And now it's October?

    #45 J is for Johnson
    Everything Bad is Good for You by Steven Johnson
    This is an exploration how things like video games and television, which are supposedly bad for us are actually good learning tools. Johnson makes a few strong arguments, most remarkably about how television shows have evolved over the years and that video games help develop problem solving skills that are share a lot in common with complicated math equations that we find in school.

    #46 L is for Larsen
    The Selected Works of T.S. Spivet by Reif Larsen
    At first glance this book appears rather daunting. Larger than most hardcovers it includes margin notes and diagrams throughout the book. However the notes relate to the narrative of the story and frequently help you understand the thought process of the protagonist, Tecumeh Sparrow Spivet, a young man who finds himself on a journey across the United States in his quest to get to the Smithsonian. Very interesting read, especially if you enjoy more unique titles.

    #47 M is for Mazzucchelli (pronounce that!)
    Asterios Polyp by David Mazzucchelli
    This is a literary graphic novel centered around a man named Asterios Polyp. An architect on paper only (none of his designs have ever been built) Asterios is changing his life after fire forces him out of his home. Another strange read that leads you in unexpected directions as Asterios questions the decisions he has made in the past.

    #48 is Dark Entries by Ian Rankin
    I am not counting this title as part of my alphabet challenge due to the length of the read. This is another graphic novel, but unlike Asterios Polyp it was a fairly simple read. An enjoyable introduction to Ian Rankin's writing style as he examines what would happen if John Constantine (Hellblazer) were to take part in a reality show similiar to Big Brother. Of course, wherever Constantine goes, demonic trouble is likely to follow.

    #49 is The Tall Book by Adrianne Cohen
    I already fulfilled by C requirement, but as a 6'1" tall female, I couldn't resist this title. Cohen reveals how tall people make more money then their shorter counterparts, that they are on average smarter, and in most cases are generally in charge (most US presidents have been above average height). Yet in spite of this, tall people have trouble fitting in the world (most notably airplanes and clothes) and for years many taller children were treated with various drugs and hormones to stunt their growth. If you are above average height, this is definitely a great title to check out.

    So, that is where I am. So close to the 50 for the year, and ahead of last year. And only 9 letters left in the alphabet!

    • 2 people found this helpful

    Its Been A While...and a Few Books

    Posted by Lisa Voss, 4 years ago

    51. Deadly Slipper by Michelle Wan. Light mystery set in France. This is the first of a series. I will read the rest when I'm in the mood for something light.

    52. Wash the Blood from My Hands by Fred Vargas. Another mystery set between Sweden and Canada. Maybe it was the translation but I didn't like this very much.

    53. Twenties Girl by Sophie Kinsella. What can I say. Sophie makes me laugh. I liked this one better than Remember Me?.

    54. Angel's Tip by Alafair Burke. I was on a bit of mystery kick. This wasn't bad.

    55. The Wife's Tale by Lori Lansens. A wife's husband doesn't come home on their 25th anniversary. We learn about their history together while the wife goes on a journey (both literally and figuratively) looking for her husband. I enjoyed this immensely and would definitely recommend it.

    56. Exit Strategy by Kelley Armstrong. Not my favourite on this list. I've only read one other book by Ms. Armstrong (Bitten) which I enjoyed. I'm not sure if I will read any more in this particular series.

    57. Fear the Worst by Lynwood Barclay. I liked this one better then No Time for Goodbye but I did find it a little predictable. I would think something was going to happen and presto, it would.

    58. This is How by M.J. Hyland. This is the story of a young man who does something that totally derails his future. This was okay but not great.

    59. The Day the Falls Stood Still by Cathy Marie Buchanan. This is a love story and a history of Niagara Falls. The characters are likeable and the historical aspects are very informative. Its almost always enjoyable reading a book with a setting you're familiar with. I highly recommend this one.

    60. Evil At Heart by Chelsea Cain. Archie Sheridan and Gretchen Lowell are back in a somewhat gory mystery. Some of the stuff made my knees go weak but I enjoyed it and look forward to another.

  • Ireland, Scotland and a few good books

    Posted by Bookmason, 4 years ago

    Dark fantasy with a humourous edge.

    Haven't posted anything in a few weeks as I've been in Ireland and Scotland. If you've never been late September seems to be a good time to go, good weather, not too many poeple at all the sites. Spent my 50th birthday in Dublin at the Guiness Storehouse and a few pubs, St John Gogarty's is highly recommended. I visited the Morns and Giants Causeway as well as Belfast and other points in the north. Took a trip Edinburgh and toured the Isle of Skye in Scotland, stayed in a B&B in Portree that's view was the best I've had on any vacation. Tasted a few single malts and brought a bit home. Nice to be back but would go on a trip again anytime.

    77 - As She Climbed Across the Table - Lethem, Jonathan - May have Odd and compelling like all books Lethem. Finally a book that got me out of my August slump. Not my favourite Lethem, but thoroughly enjoyable from start to finish. 3.5

    78 Zoe's Tale - Scalzi, John - An expansion of the Old Man's War universe, another good Scalzi. Basically the story of The Last Colony told from a teenage girl's point of view. Highly recommended. 3.5

    79. Bauchelain and Korbal Broach: Three Short Novels of the Malazan Empire, Volume One - Erikson, Steven - Excellent, darkly funny at times, the third tale "The Healthy Dead" is wonderful. Highly recommend for fans of Erikson's Malazan books, but also for those who like fantasy with a bit of a twist. 4.0

    80 - Echo Park - Connelly, Michael - First book on my Ipod while in Ireland. Listen to most on flight back from Ireland, thorougly enjoyed this the first Harry Bosch I've read/listened. I have read non-Bosch Connelly and just never got into the Bosch books as there are so many. Intend to read them all now. 3.5

> Read more posts from: September 2009 or November 2009

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