fuzzi's "DOUBLE OR NOTHING" 150 Book Challenge Thread!

I met my 75 book challenge so quickly this year, I thought "Why not go double or nothing, try for 150 books?" I've never read that many as long as I've been counting them.

So, here it is.

Here's my 2016 ticker:




And here's a link to my "Reading Register":

http://www.librarything.com/topic/207892

One of the things I'm trying to do this year is really get those dusty unread books read, and off the shelves. So I'm concentrating on my ROOT books (Read Our Own Tomes). Here's the separate ticker for my goal of 66 ROOT books:




And a link to my ROOT progress thread:

https://www.librarything.com/topic/208949#5380836

And one more post, with a baby picture!



Ruth Elizabeth

Happy new thread! 150! That's ambitious. We're here to cheer you on. Cute pic of Ruth Elizabeth - why is she wearing a 2?

Great job and good luck with your further reading!

>4 Familyhistorian: she was two months old in that picture. I've seen those numbers on pictures of babies on Facebook, so it must be a new "thing".

I usually get past 100 books read in a year, but I've been determined this year to get all those dusty unread books finally read, and (usually) re-homed! So, I've been pushing myself, and it shows.

Of course, while we are visiting Elizabeth, I won't be reading much...except to her!

>5 mstrust: thank you!

Happy New Thread!

Happy new thread!!

>7 leahbird: >8 scaifea: thank you!

>3 fuzzi: See that Ruth Elizabeth is wearing the number 2 in support of your second thread, Fuzzi.

Happy new thread. xx

>10 PaulCranswick: cute! :D

Ruth Elizabeth is beautiful! Will this be your first visit with her?

>12 streamsong: yes! I am counting down the days...nine days until I get to hold her.

Second Quarter Best Reads (April - June 2016)

I had a lot of reads this quarter, but only three . In no particular order:

A Cold Red Sunrise by Stuart M. Kaminsky
Caliban's War by James S. A. Corey
Joy in the Morning by Betty Smith

Hmm. One mystery, one SciFi, one novel about a newlywed couple in the early 1900s.

Eclectic reads, anyone?

Happy new thread!
Wow, aiming for double 75 :-)

Congraz on 75. Good luck with the double!

>18 PaulCranswick: thank you, back atcha!

>3 fuzzi: Ohmygoodness how sweet! I hear you about counting down the days to holding her... I do that with my niece, too.

Happy new thread and good luck in your attempt at 150!

>20 bell7: thank you!

We leave Wednesday, and will arrive on Friday. Saturday I plan to hold Ruthie as long as my arms hold out...

Good luck doubling that 75!

>22 The_Hibernator: thanks! Unfortunately, I have not read any in the last four days...



Ruth Elizabeth "Ruthie"

Finally read one!

#80 The Last Little Cat by Meindert DeJong
I bought this book on impulse, and I am glad I did! The author tells the story of a little kitten that is last, and unwanted, and lonely. DeJong uses a sing-song style of writing that is pleasant to read. I'm keeping this one.

#81 Seabiscuit vs. War Admiral: the Greatest Horse Race in History by Kat Shehata, illustrated by Jo McElwee

Many of us are familiar with the true story about the match race between Seabiscuit and War Admiral, perhaps from watching the movie about Seabiscuit, or from reading the excellent book about him written by Laura Hillenbrand. However, while this book is telling the story of the race between champions, it also helps younger readers, or adults unfamiliar with the topic, understand more about the sport of kings, and it does so without insulting their intelligence.

The illustrations are bright, colorful, with some more abstract, and some more realistic. I enjoyed examining the illustrator's different styles as well as reading the story again. There is also a glossary at the end of the book.

I liked reading Seabiscuit vs. War Admiral, and look forward to reading it to my granddaughter in the future.

#82 On the Night You Were Born by Nancy Tillman

A delightfully illustrated and written book, aimed at young children.

#83 Cold is the Sea by Edward L. Beach

As I read this third book in Edward L. Beach's Run Silent, Run Deep series, I thought it was a little bit predictable, not as well-written as the previous two novels. But when I picked it up last night, to read "just a few pages" before I fell asleep, I got sucked into a thrilling final 100 or so pages, and could not go to sleep until I finished it.

Started slow, finished fantastic, definitely recommended.

>27 fuzzi: That sounds good! I'll have to look for those books.

>3 fuzzi: & >23 fuzzi: Ruthie is adorable. Thanks for sharing her with us.

>29 MDGentleReader: thank you. I'm in looooooooooove....

>28 harrygbutler: very good series, yes. Do read them in order if at all possible. I don't think you have to, but as the characters are featured in all three books, it's easier if you already "know" them.

One more in the chute!

#84 After Many Days by L.M. Montgomery

This is a nice collection of short stories by the author of Anne of Green Gables. As with many of L.M. Montgomery's other works, the plots are often predictable, but the tales are sweet, or bittersweet, giving us a view of people from a century ago, with all their faults, foibles, and strengths.

Under the wire, by a nose, we have

#85 The Seabiscuit Story by John McEvoy

While browsing at the public library, I noticed on the shelves another book about the champion racehorse, Seabiscuit, with a recommendation by Laura Hillenbrand splashed across the cover, so why not give it a try?

And I'm glad I did.

The Seabiscuit Story is composed mainly of original articles published in The Blood Horse, with brief synopses and addenda by the editor, and including some rare photographs from the 1930s to add jam to the bread of the stories.

Racing fans should love this book, as should most people interested in the sport, or in the story of the little thoroughbred racer that could, and did, during the years of the Great Depression. It is a well-done addition to racing's history books.

And I have yet another Seabiscuit book under my belt.

And one more!

#86 Tillie Pierce by Tanya Anderson

An interesting and informative book about an eyewitness to the battle of Gettysburg. In simplifying the narrative, though, the author appears to project a bias, though it might have been unintentional.

#87 Appaloosa by Robert B. Parker

I liked the characters, the situations, the dialogue, and that the story flowed right along. Despite a bit of profanity, I enjoyed it, and I plan to read more books by this author.

I see a pattern developing...

#88 Forego by Bill Heller

This is a thorough (no pun intended) but not bloated biography of the three-time Horse of the Year, champion racehorse, Forego. The author includes parts of this thoroughbred's life that were not in the news, or published, but were more personal reminisces from those who knew Forego best. I remember watching him race when I was a teen, and this bio brought me back to the excitement and anticipation before and during each race. A keeper.

Another "horse" book...

#89 Runaway Stallion by Walt Morey

An entertaining story of a young man and a huge "runaway" thoroughbred, as well as the issues and trials of a small town, circa, 1915. Not just for "horse" fans, but is appropriate for adult or adolescent read.

And one more "horse" book...

#90 Winter Pony by Jean Slaughter Doty

A nice little story about a young lady and her first pony. It's well-written, with information about handling and training horses that is instructive to the novice, but without seeming to do so. I liked it well enough to now look for the first book in the series.

Shall we go for five "horse" books in a row? And six of the last seven reads???

#91 The Mustang and Other Stories by Barbara Corcoran

This book, consisting of three stories, did not read like a juvenile book, but more like an older volume: one that can be enjoyed by any age. I liked all three stories more than I thought I would, and would recommend this for anyone who likes nature and/or animals, or even believable stories about adolescents' interaction with wildlife.

Following your "horse"-readings, sadly none of them is available in Dutch....

>39 FAMeulstee: I am so sorry.

I decided to keep the "horse" marathon going, and started Come Home, Brumby last night. It's another book that has been on my shelves for a while.

#92 Come Home Brumby by Mary Elwyn Patchett

A few years have passed, and both Joey and his horse Brumby have grown up. But now Brumby and his herd are missing, so Joey resolves to search for them, and for Brumby's son, Florian, who is also missing. Taking only a couple horses and his two dogs, fifteen year old Joey sets out to find the animals that are part of his future, the basis for a breeding operation.

Authentic, believable, well-written tale of the wilds of Australia, and those that survive there.

Since I'm in a "double or nothing" mood, I think I'll keep reading equine books.

Next up, Six Ponies.

How long can I continue? Stay tuned...

I'm still in the saddle...

#93 Six Ponies by Josephine Pullein-Thompson

A fun romp through the fields and lanes with the pony club kids, their siblings, and quirks, all mounted upon green-broke ponies they are trying to train.

I'll be looking for more of these books.

You must really love horses. I've never been able to read so many animal books. I often don't like the way they end.

>44 The_Hibernator: I've loved reading animal stories since I first picked up an abridged version of The Call of the Wild, when I was about 6. Growing up, I read most of the books about animals stocked at our public library, but as an adult I can find the books the library did not have, mainly online.

At this time I have quite a backlog of books to read!

I don't like it when the animals die, and I avoid most of those books, with very few exceptions.

#94 Rimrunners by C.J. Cherryh

Bet Yeager has been marooned on a dying space station, looking for any berth out of there, but when she signs on with an unknown spaceship, the Loki, not only is she _targeted for persecution, but her secret past is threatened with exposure.

I love Bet, and love the author's ability to create a tough-as-nails yet vulnerable female protagonist. Recommended.

#95 Summer of My German Soldier by Bette Greene

After a slow start, I really enjoyed this World War II story, of a young Jewish girl finding a friend in an escaped German POW, but close to the end, the story felt contrived, and lost its way.

#96 Dragonsinger by Anne McCaffrey

While trying to escape almost certain death, Menolly has been rescued by dragon and rider, and finds herself where she's wanted to be for a long time: the Harper Hall. But not everything goes well, as petty jealousies and vindictive acts abound, from those who attempt to make her stay unpleasant, or even worse, very short-lived. Her main source of emotional support comes from her nine fire lizards, a "half-wit" kitchen drudge, and a young troublemaker.

Of all Anne McCaffrey's works, I am most fond of the Harper Hall series, and especially this second volume of Menolly's tale. It's aimed at all ages, and worthy of a read, whether by an adolescent, or a granny, like me.

#97 The People of Pern by Robin Wood

A collection of portraits of the characters from Anne McCaffrey's Pern novels, lovingly and superbly rendered by artist Robin Wood. Each drawing or painting is paired with a short bio of the character. A must-read for any fan of Pern.

#98 Hestia by C.J. Cherryh

A colony, far from the Earth and desperate to survive, finds itself fighting against a native populace. The natives turn out to be more intelligent and resourceful than thought, and start to figure out how to turn the more advanced settlers' tools against them. Interesting premise, worthy of a read, but not C.J. Cherryh at her best.

#99 Education of a Wandering Man by Louis L'Amour

Not strictly an autobiography, this is an interesting set of memoirs from the author: he relates tales of his youth, and how his experiences and the books he read helped to educate him and turn him into a writer. Good read.

50 more to go...

#100 Science and the Bible by Henry Morris

A brief yet fairly thorough look at how science can be used to prove the accuracy of the Bible. It gave me much to ponder. Recommended.

>52 fuzzi: Congrats on 100!

>53 harrygbutler: thanks!

I just zipped through Force 10 from Navarone and found it an excellent adventure. Thanks for recommending it a while back!

Great! I have enjoyed every Alistair MacLean I've read, so far.

#101: Dragondrums by Anne McCaffrey

I like this third book in the Harper Hall trilogy, a lot, though not as much as its predecessor, Dragonsinger. Still, it's a "ripping good yarn", from the perspective of Piemur, the apprentice who is always getting into trouble. How he adjusts to a change in his position and status at Fort Hold is a fun read, and an engaging story.

#102 The First Mountain Man: Preacher by William W. Johnstone

A fairly good, though formula western, about a young man who leaves home in order to see the world. He manages to survive, and eventually becomes a mountain man: a trapper of early 1800's America. Worth a read, maybe a re-read.

#103 Cetaganda by Lois McMaster Bujold

Miles and Ivan are sent as Barrayaran ambassadors to a state funeral on Cetaganda. But trouble and intrigue rush in as soon as the airlock opens, and increase as the cousins try to navigate the treacherous waters of Cetagandan society. Interesting, amusing, and enjoyable.

#104 The First Mountain Man by William W. Johnstone

Preacher is a mountain man, a wanderer, trapper, and a fighter as the need arises. When he finds himself in charge of a wagon train of clueless eastern pilgrims, he must put all his cunning, knowledge, and experience into play, in order to keep himself and his charges from dying at the hands of renegade Blackfeet and murdering outlaws.

I enjoyed this story, and look forward to reading another in the series.

#105 Ethan of Athos by Lois McMaster Bujold

When a shipment of necessary genetic material does not arrive on Athos, a planet inhabited only by males, Dr. Ethan Urquhart goes in search of a new source of biologics necessary for his planet's existence. On Kline Station Ethan lands in the middle of intrigue, espionage, and violence, all areas of humanity's characteristics with which he has no experience. Good story, with plenty of plot twists to keep you guessing until the end.

Science and the Bible looks good!

>62 The_Hibernator: thanks, I agree.

#106 The Boy Who Would Not Go To School by Munro Leaf

Robert Francis Weatherbee decides he's not going to go to school, and then discovers that reading, writing, and 'rithmatic would make his life better.

I recall liking this little book as a child...and I still like it, as an adult. It's a simple tale, with simple illustrations.

#107 Mr. Revere and I by Robert Lawson

A thoroughly amusing and enjoyable memoir of the early years of the American Revolution, as told by Paul Revere's horse. The humor is dry, and the illustrations are marvelous. Recommended for all ages.

#108 Royal Red by Jack O'Brien

Peter Thorne, nephew of Jim Thorne, and with the grandson of Silver Chief by his side, investigates problems with an Indian settlement near Athabasca.

This story was completed posthumously by friends of the author, and while it's not a bad read, it's not of the same caliber as the Silver Chief books.

#109 In Trump: The Art of the Deal, Donald Trump first takes us through a typical week of his busy life (around 1987), then shifts the focus back to his childhood, where helping his father run the family business prepared young Trump for when he later went out on his own. Additionally, we read about a number of projects Trump tackled, with details about how one acquires property, or builds massive skyscrapers.

I was pleasantly surprised upon reading this book. You would think that an autobiography of a extremely successful and ambitious man would be a slog, but I found myself smiling at the author's quips, his thoughts on government waste, his impatience with anything but doing the best one can do.

I knew virtually nothing about Donald Trump before he began his campaign for President of the US, but after reading this book, I think I understand the man and what makes him "tick" much, much better.

Highly recommended, no matter who you plan to vote for.

Have you read Bujold's fantasy books starting with The Curse of Chalion? It's one of my favorites.

>67 Morphidae: no, I was just recently introduced to her works with the Vorkosigan series, but I'll take that bullet from you... :wink:

The White Stag by Kate Seredy

I enjoyed another book by this author, but after reading one chapter of this work, I was so upset by what happened that I decided I did not want to finish it.

>68 fuzzi: You are in for a delight!

>70 Morphidae: the public library has a copy, and it's waiting for me! I'm going to pick it up after work today.

What I especially like is the world-building as far as religion is concerned. Not a lot of authors do that. Most just copy an Earth religion.

>72 Morphidae: C.J. Cherryh does that, she creates entire histories, political systems, cultures, etc.

Curse has the usual medieval-style monarchies. So nothing different there.

>74 Morphidae: Though The Hallowed Hunt has some interesting variations...

>75 jjmcgaffey: I didn't like The Hallowed Hunt so I've read it only once. The Curse of Chalion and Paladin of Souls have been read multiple times, especially Curse.

Huh. I actually like Hunt best, I think - it's such a weird situation, I find it fascinating. So I've read that three or four times, and the first two two or three times each. And now the Penric novellas - so nice to get more in that world!

#110 Joust by Mercedes Lackey

A young serf is taken from a cruel master, to serve as a page/squire for a dragon-riding warrior, a Jouster. As Vetch learns his new duties, and grows to care for his new, kind master, he finds himself in a quandry about how to escape, if he should escape, to return to his own people, the enemies of his rescuer. And then a way presents itself, in a dragon's egg, with more than a dragon of his own "hatching".

This is one of the author's better books, on a par with the best of her Valdemar works.

>66 fuzzi: Originally my plan was to read something by each of the candidates in October...but that was before the candidates were chosen. But I don't really want to read something by Trump. I'll admit a bias and say that every quip he makes will make me cringe just because I know who the author is, lol. Not proud to admit bias, but there it is.

>79 The_Hibernator: you might be surprised if you gave it a try. Check out the reviews posted years before his candidacy. They're not biased nor political.

My bias, as there is, is against the established political machines, like the Clintons and the Bushes. Oh well.

I'm not going to count this as read, since I only got part of the way through:

Into the Wild by Erin Hunter

I usually enjoy children/youth books, and this had been on my shelves for a while, so I decided to jump in and enjoy it as much as the other reviewers here.

I read about 50 pages and thought "Why am I wasting my time? I'm not getting any pleasure from reading this".

The plot isn't much, the characters aren't very interesting, and it's rather predictable. I think a younger child might enjoy this book, but I'm done.

#111 Labyrinth by Lois McMaster Bujold

A smile-inducing short adventure of Miles as he and his team tackle corruption at Jackson's Whole while on a "routine" mission.

#112 Breed of Giants by Joyce Stranger

This is another entry in a series of books about the inhabitants of Bruton-Under-the-Water, a small village in England, post World War II, and the surrounding area. We come to know and care for the people, their sorrows and triumphs, and the animals, both wild and domesticated, that live in close proximity.

A keeper, and highly recommended.

#113 Black Star, Bright Dawn by Scott O'Dell

A young Eskimo girl and her dog team enter the Iditarod dogsled race, but it is not just about the race, but about her heritage, her family, and her beliefs. Nicely written, with enough action to keep the reader's interest.

#114 Sarah Bishop by Scott O'Dell

A disappointing read by a well-known author, based upon a true story from the Revolutionary War of the late 1700s. As this was published about the time of Scott O'Dell's death, I can't help but wonder if someone "finished" the book for him. Not recommended.

#115 The Everlasting Hills by Irene Hunt

Jeremy is "slow" due to an accident during his birth, and he endures teasing because of it. But his own father's contempt for his only remaining son turns Jeremy's fear into hate as he becomes a young man.

This is a superb read, by an author whose books I love. There is nothing contrived about her characters or the situations, nothing cheap, forced, or manipulative about her stories. She writes about real people, with real issues, but in a way that draws you to them, despite their faults, and helps you to understand their actions, even if you can't condone or forgive them. Highly, highly recommended.

I had a bunch of 4 star reads July - September, so I decided for my "Best of Q3" to only list books that were rated higher...and here they are:

Trump: The Art of the Deal by Donald Trump
Breed of Giants by Joyce Stranger
The People of Pern by Robin Wood

But my best NEW read of this quarter is

The Everlasting Hills by Irene Hunt

Happy October, fuzzi!

>88 The_Hibernator: happy October backatcha!

>67 Morphidae: I love The Curse of Chalion, and yes, it does remind me of C.J. Cherryh's worlds, like her "Fortress" series.

I just put in a hold for the second book, Paladin of Souls...what have you done to me???

>90 fuzzi: Bwhahahaha.

ETA: Okay, I checked your library and you just might also like The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison. It's a stand alone so you won't get caught up in a series.

#116 The Curse of Chalion by Lois McMaster Bujold

An involving tale of a simple soldier, an unlanded lord, who finds himself employed in a royal household gripped by madness, betrayal, and ambition, and with the impression that he has been chosen by deity for a greater purpose. Very good read.

We have had severe weather, and muddled through the after-effects of a hurricane, so my reading has stalled, but I did manage to get one more done:

#117 I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith

An amusing and thoughtful "journal" by a 17 year old living in genteel poverty post WWI in England. Lots to think about after reading this unpredictable story of a young girl and her eccentric family.

#118 A Dog Like Sam by Edward Van de Vendel

Told from a nine year old boy's point of view, this is the story of a large white dog that appears in a family's yard one day, shy, yet in need of love and attention. The author does a good job of conveying the narrator's thoughts and feelings, and making the characters "real". Good read, even for an adult.

>94 fuzzi: A dog like Sam sounds good, I have some other books by Edward van de Vendel, but not this one. Maybe I can find it at the library tomorrow :-)

>93 fuzzi: I'm glad you've come through it okay!

>95 FAMeulstee: I'll look up other books by Edward Van de Vendel, I enjoyed it that much.

>96 mstrust: thank you! We were very blessed: other people had damage, or flooding, or were without power for a week, but we were fine. We did have one tree come down, but it was on the edge of the property and fell into the woods next door, an undeveloped lot. I just have another section of chain link fence to replace, but that's nothing compared to most people in the area.

#119 Alta by Mercedes Lackey

While, in my opinion, this is not as good as the first book in the series, I nevertheless did enjoy this continuation of Joust, the story of Vetch and his dragon. I plan to find and read the next book, Sanctuary.

>94 fuzzi: I must admit to not having heard of Edward Van de Vendel but we used to have a dog called Sam so that must be sufficient reason to go and look him up.

Have a lovely weekend.

>99 PaulCranswick: he's a new author to me, too. I received the book through Early Reviewers. :)

You have a good weekend, too.

#120 Borders of Infinity by Lois McMaster Bujold

Miles is interred in a Cetagandan POW camp, in search of a war hero, but finds himself using his wits and powers of persuasion to not only survive, but to take charge of the situation. Good read.

>101 fuzzi: Mmm. Bujold. I'm also slowly making my way through a re-read of the Miles saga as well.

>101 fuzzi: I am reading the Miles' saga for the first time, thanks to some LT peeps who recommended her to me. :)

#121 Death of a Russian Priest by Stuart Kaminsky

Another good entry in the Rostnikov mystery series, though not a standout addition. The author adds a few new characters, and introduces us to post-Soviet Russia and the headaches and frustrations that accompanied the change from socialism/communism to democracy, or at least the appearance of that switch. Recommended.

#122 Mudshark by Gary Paulsen

A silly, fanciful, and fun book about a boy who thinks all the time, and remembers where to find lost items.

#123 Brothers in Arms by Lois McMaster Bujold

Miles continues to successfully juggle his dual roles until a familiar face causes all sorts of problems...including deadly ones.

I liked this installment of the Miles Vorkosigan series, especially the family aspect (I hesitate to spoil the tale with more details than this).

#124 Hard Currency by Stuart M. Kaminsky

In this ninth book of the Rostnikov detective series we find The Washtub enroute to Cuba with Elena Timofeyeva, a new addition to the team. Their assignment is to confirm the guilt of a Russian citizen who has been accused of murder. Meanwhile, Karpo and Tkach are investigating what appears to be another installment in a series of grisly killings.

The settings in both Cuba and Russia feel authentic, and I like how the author does not adhere to two-dimensional characters, but has them grow, adapt, and change. I enjoyed this installment and look forward to reading the next book.

I loved Capture the Castle

>108 The_Hibernator: it's a keeper for sure.

#125 The Door Into Summer by Robert Heinlein

This book was written and published almost 60 years ago, and unfortunately it does show its age. While the author does a fairly decent job of fleshing out characters, this story doesn't have the depth and feel of later works, and has a bit of a "rushed" feel to it.

I still love how Robert Heinlein describes situations (especially with cats), often with his tongue firmly in cheek, but I can't rate this more than a "pretty good" read, and recommended for those who like older sci-fi, or those who enjoy Heinlein.

#126 At Wit's End is Erma Bombeck's first published book, one that preceded many other volumes, columns, and movies. She was of the same generation as my parents, and a favorite author of my mother, who had several of her books on the shelves as I was growing up. But I'd not read this particular book before today.

For me, Erma's a combination of humorist, social commentator, and reminiscencer (is that a word?). Much of her work might be considered dated, as she describes her life as a mother and housewife from post World War 2 America. However, her humor transcends generations: men and women haven't changed that much, and children are about the same, sans electronics. A younger reader should still see the humor in much of what Bombeck has written.

But where Erma shines, in my opinion, is her remembrances of her own grandmother, her children's experiences (first day of school, etc.), and other events that should pull at the heartstrings of any human with a shred of feeling. What, indeed, do we recall about our own mothers, the lack of fingerprints on the refrigerator door, or the homemade cookies hot from the oven?

You don't have to be old enough to remember this author to appreciate her look at life. I'm sorry we lost her so young. Recommended.

#127 Asterix the Gaul by Rene Goscinny and Albert Uderzo

I read a French language version of this book about 40 years ago, in French class, and loved it although I did not understand all the puns and jokes.

Now, having read it in English (my native language), I have to say there's a lot more I enjoyed. The artwork is fantastic, the word-play and puns are superb. A keeper, and recommended.

#128 Blood and Rubles by Stuart Kaminsky

This addition to the Rostnikov series of mysteries is a little darker than previous books, and leaves one more contemplative at the end. But as usual, the characters are well-drawn, changing as they age and experience the worst of society, as they attempt to apprehend the dregs and bottom-feeders of post-Soviet Union Russia. A good component in the Rostnikov stories, which should be read in order.

>111 fuzzi: That's a name you don't hear too often now. I briefly worked with one of Bombeck's sons many years ago. He didn't seem to have inherited her sense of humor. : )

>114 mstrust: and that's a shame, that we don't hear her name much. She really was gifted in humor and insight.

>111 fuzzi: I don't recall reading any of Erma Bombeck's books, though I may have, but I do recall reading her in the newspaper occasionally and enjoying that.

>112 fuzzi: The one or two Asterix books I tried when I was younger didn't really charm me, but it may be time to give them another try.

>112 fuzzi: I love Asterix - I read him (in English) as a kid, over and over. I don't have many of the books now, though I hung on to my ?Spanish?Portuguese? version of Asterix Legionnario - oh, all right, Asterix the Legionary. Yes, it's utterly full of puns - most of the names and many of the place names are puns (the ones that aren't actual historical sites). Which is really impressive, since that means the translators had to not only understand the puns in French but find equivalent English (German, Spanish, etc.) ones that still fit in the language and the speech bubbles. Multi-linguals are always impressive, but this level of punnery is especially so. And some of the puns are multi-lingual - I can't remember any offhand, but I know there were a couple where the joke worked best if you knew some Latin (or at least, some Latin tags).

The stories are more than a little repetitive - not something to binge-read. But every once in a while...and now I want to read some Asterix!

>117 jjmcgaffey: it is amazing how they kept the puns, through translation. What I especially love, though, is the artwork, the range of emotions revealed with just a few strokes of a pen.

#129 Tarnished Icons by Stuart Kaminsky

It's been about a year since we last visited with Rostnikov and his team of detectives in post-Soviet Russia. In this latest book, the cases include hunting down a serial rapist called "The Shy One", neutralizing a "mad bomber" who creates sophisticated items of destruction, and locating someone who is _targeting members of a newly organized synagogue for permanent elimination. Good addition to the series.

#130 An Excellent Mystery by Ellis Peters

Most of the mysteries in this series that I have read are about a murder that needs to be solved. An Excellent Mystery is different, and takes its time to get "to the point", but it's still a good read. There are some twists and turns in the plot, so don't think you've solved the mystery halfway through, as I did. It's a good read, worth reading. Recommended.

Twenty books to read to reach 150 in 2016, and I have 39 days left...but I also have work, and family, and holidays.

Can I do it???

Fingers crossed for you!

>121 fuzzi: Good luck!

>122 mstrust: >123 harrygbutler: thanks!

I removed 16 more books from my shelves, for a total of 37 re-homed in November...but I did bring home 4 more...

#131 Chitty Chitty Bang Bang by Ian Fleming

A childhood favorite that just doesn't work as well as an adult read.

>127 The_Hibernator: love it!

#132 Asterix and Cleopatra by Rene Goscinny

Cleopatra orders her servant, Edifis, to create a palace in three months, so he calls upon his druid friend, Getafix, to help him build it in time. It's a Road Trip to Alexandria for Getafix, Asterix, Obelix, and their puppy, Dogmatix.

Puns abound, artwork is great, what's not to love?

>129 fuzzi: That has always been my favourite Asterix book :-)

>130 FAMeulstee: do you think Cleopatra has a cute nose?? Hahaha!

>131 fuzzi: Of course! LOL

#133 Grub Line Rider by Louis L'Amour

This is a new edition of Louis L'Amour short stories, including one of my favorites, War Party. It's a good collection, not a bum steer in the bunch!

#134 Blue Willow by Doris Gates

This is a sweet story of a young migrant girl living in California during the 1930s. The author has done a wonderful job of bringing her characters to life, and presenting a believable narrative in a style similar but not exactly like Lois Lenski or Laura Ingalls Wilder. Appropriate for grammar school children or adults, a nice read. Recommended.

I've 33 days til the end of the year, and 16 books to read to reach 150 for the year!

I think I can, I think I can...

>135 fuzzi: Good luck!

>136 harrygbutler: thank you!

>135 fuzzi: I think you can ;-)

>135 fuzzi: You can do it!

I'll need to read one book every other day...

>140 fuzzi: With one of those books being a chunkster, I hope you can make it ;-)

>141 FAMeulstee: hahaha! I did it "to myself" with that challenge, didn't I? :)

#135 Moon of Three Rings by Andre Norton

An interesting story of a spaceman on an alien world, in the style of both SciFi and Fantasy, due to the natives' magical abilities being on display. It's a slow-starting tale that is both predictable and not: I guessed correctly about how one situation would be resolved, but was also surprised by other elements within the story. Although it was published 50 years ago, unlike a recent read of a book by Heinlein, from the same era, this one is not dated at all. Overall, I enjoyed my read, and I plan to seek out the next book in the series.

#136 Bible Numerics by Peter S. Ruckman

An extremely interesting little study about the use of numbers in the Bible, and what each number "stands for". I liked how the author used cross-references to show how he came to his conclusions, and also did not claim to be an authority, either. Satisfying read, very informative, and highly recommended.

I've not read this book in a decade or more, but remember that it was an excellent read. Considering today is the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, you might consider giving this book a try:


Day of Infamy

The author, Walter Lord, also wrote the excellent Titanic story, A Night To Remember.

#137 Eye of Cat by Roger Zelazny

This book is a work that is hard to define, with much mystical and spiritual observances by the protagonist, a Navaho who hunts aliens. Billy enlists the assistance of "Cat", a shapechanger, to find another alien loose on Earth. Cat is a extraterrestrial creature Billy successfully hunted years before, who agrees to assist but for a deadly price.

I liked quite a bit of this story, especially the game between Cat and Billy, but the mystical interludes dragged it down for me.

#138 Blade Runner by Phillip K. Dick

If you saw the movie Blade Runner, I should warn you: the book is quite different. There are some surreal scenes where it is unclear if what is happening is real or some sort of hallucination. Worth a read, but I don't plan to read it again.

#139 Around the Year by Tasha Tudor

A nostalgic picture book about the months and seasons, and suitable for young and old.

#140 Asterix the Legionary by Rene Goscinny

This is another lighthearted romp through Roman-occupied Gaul with our two favorite warriors, Asterix and his best friend Obelix. This time our heroes join the Roman army in order to locate a missing Gaulois, and Obelix learns how to be "polite", hahaha. Funny, clever, and recommended.

>149 fuzzi: After Asterix and Cleopatra, I think this is the next best of the series :-)

Wouldn't it be nice if 2017 was a year of peace and goodwill.
A year where people set aside their religious and racial differences.
A year where intolerance is given short shrift.
A year where hatred is replaced by, at the very least, respect.
A year where those in need are not looked upon as a burden but as a blessing.
A year where the commonality of man and woman rises up against those who would seek to subvert and divide.
A year without bombs, or shootings, or beheadings, or rape, or abuse, or spite.

2017.

Festive Greetings and a few wishes from Malaysia!

>151 PaulCranswick: I would love that.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=DKk9rv2hUfA

"And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

Merry Christmas, fuzzi!

>152 fuzzi: considering my hertiage, I wish you and ALL: Fröhliche Weihnachten! Glædelig Jul! Nadolig Llawen! God Jul! Nollaig Shona Dhuit! Joyeux Noel! Merry Christmas!

#141 Father's Road by Ji-yun Jang

This is the story of a young man who gets to accompany his father on a trading journey, traveling on the Silk Road. Overall I enjoyed the narrative, and the illustrations, especially the expressions on many of the faces. I could have done without most of the glossary in the back, which seemed to be aimed at an older student rather than the book's age group. Good read, recommended.

#142 Here Be Dragons by Sharon Kay Penman

One of the things I like about Sharon Kay Penman is her ability to write about history in a clarifying way, without making it confusing. I also appreciate her skill in fleshing out the characters of our past, making them much like people we know today.

Here Be Dragons is one of this author's first works, written about 30 years ago, and it's a keeper. In this first of a trilogy (they can be read separately), we are immersed in the Angevin dynasty politics and intrigue, based mostly in 12th and 13th century England, Normandy, France, and Wales, and come to know the powerful people of that time. At first, King John is a somewhat sympathetic character, as Penman paints his picture through the eyes of his illegitimate daughter, Joanna. After a marriage of political benefit to a prince of Wales, Llewellyn, Joanna's eyes are opened more to the differences between the Norman conquerors and the Welsh, whose ideas of marriage and inheritance appeal to her.

Riveting, a hard-to-put-it-down book of more than 700 pages, though it does not read as a typical "chunkster". Highly, highly recommended.

>156 fuzzi: Glad to know it's so good as it's on my TBR Someday list.

>156 fuzzi:, >157 Morphidae: it's on my TBR, too.

>157 Morphidae: >158 MDGentleReader: yes! Read!

I read the second book, Falls the Shadow a couple years ago, not realizing it was part of a trilogy. It, too, was excellent.

EDIT: I read it over five years ago, not "a couple"!

#143 Thumbelina by Hans Christian Andersen, illustrated by Adrienne Adams

This is a lovely retelling of the classic tale, with magical yet sweet illustrations by Adrienne Adams. I remember reading this particular edition from my childhood, but was enthralled anew reading it as an adult. A delightful book.

#144 Play Ball, Snoopy by Charles Schulz

A good collection of Peanuts cartoons, some from the early 1970's. Most of the collection is about Snoopy, but Woodstock, Marcie, and Peppermint Patty also join the fun.

>160 fuzzi: I think we got most of our fairy tales from the Reader's Digest anthology The World's Best Fairy Tales.

>161 fuzzi: I used to pick up the Peanuts books whenever I'd come across them at used book sales and yard sales, but I haven't been seeing them around much recently. Generally there are some funny and even some wise strips. Fantagraphics has just wrapped up a complete reprinting of the whole run (in black and white) and is partway through a color reprint series of the Sundays. I may read those once I finish up the Prince Valiants.

>162 harrygbutler: I've been finding the Peanuts books in the local used book store and the public library discard sales. I enjoy the philosophy in many of the strips: some are rather profound.

#145 Asterix in Switzerland by René Goscinny

Witty, and funny, it must be Asterix and Obelix! This time our warriors are on a quest to find Edelweiss, needed by Getafix for a healing potion.

Lots of good sight gags in this volume, too.

A very belated merry Christmas! Hope you had a good one

>165 eclecticdodo: nice to see you! Happy New Year back to you.

Can I complete five books in 30 hours???

I'm going to use this marathon to help me try to reach my goal of 150: https://www.librarything.com/topic/244595#

Good luck!

Thanks, four more to go...

#146 Amberwell by D.E. Stevenson

A delightful story of an eccentric family living in post WWI Scotland, with emphasis on the lives of the children as they grow into adulthood. It reminded me of several RF Delderfield novels, and is both entertaining and enthralling. Recommended.

#147 Donald Trump Election Special: 45th President of the United States by TIME Magazine

This is a collection of articles by Time magazine authors, some written months before election day 2016. Unfortunately the bias of Time shows: oft-repeated yet still inaccurate DNC talking points are touted as fact, and are evidence of lazy journalism. A puff piece on the next POTUS was not needed, nor expected, but a more balanced approach would have been appreciated. Nice photos and some new information about Trump's family genealogy upped my rating.

Looking forward to your continued company in 2017.
Happy New Year, Fuzzi

Good luck finishing the last three books!

#148 Hook Em, Snotty! by Gary Paulsen

City cousin comes to visit with cowgirl cousin, and the sparks fly until the two girls unite for a common cause.

An amusing read for younger audiences.

#149 The Dark Canoe by Scott O'Dell

Told from the point of view of a young cabin boy, this is the story of a salvage ship searching for a fortune in whale oil and ambergris, sunken beneath the waves in a storm years before. However, it is also a story of delusion, as one man risks the safety of the crew and voyage based upon parallels he sees between their situation and the book Moby Dick.

This was an extremely interesting read, and recommended.

#150 Body, Soul, and Spirit by Peter S. Ruckman

A small work detailing what the Bible teaches about a person's body, soul, and spirit. It's a fairly quick read, yet is quite meaty in its topic.

Congratulations on hitting 150!

>176 harrygbutler: thanks! I was reading #151, but won't finish before midnight. Still...

Congratulations on reaching your goal!

Congrats on reaching 150!