fuzzi's "Six Bits" Reading Challenge for 2019

I've returned for another year of reading and reviewing!

For those who haven't followed my threads before, I'll just mention that my reading is eclectic, and I review EVERY book I read. EVERY BOOK. NO KIDDING!

I don't "spoil" either, so read my reviews without fear!

Here's my ticker:




My Reading Register for 2019 is here: https://www.librarything.com/topic/301181#

Welcome back, fuzzi! Looking forward to seeing what your reading year brings.

Looking forward to your thread and some shared reads!

>2 alcottacre: >3 harrygbutler: glad to see both of you here!

Welcome back!

Happy New Year fuzzi!

Happy reading in 2019, fuzzi!

Wishing you lots of good reading, gardening, birding, etc. in 2019!

And away we go...

I was disappointed with how badly I failed at reading my Bible last year, so I decided to start the new year right by reading Matthew first...and since everyone else slept late, I finished it!


#1 Matthew (King James Bible)

Matthew, the first book of the New Testament, is full of familiar tales of Jesus’ ministry, beginning before His birth. The retelling of Herod’s mass murder of innocents is located here, as well as the Beatitudes, two instances of feeding the masses, and Jesus’ denunciation of the religious leaders of the day.

>9 fuzzi: A great way to start the year!

Happy 2019
A year full of books
A year full of friends
A year full of all your wishes realised

I look forward to keeping up with you, Fuzzi, this year.

Off to a good start with one Bible book down!

Happy New Year and happy new thread! I look forward to following your reading this year. Any plans to tackle more classics?

Happy New Year Fuzzi! And happy new thread!



Wishing you and your family the best for 2019.

Happy New Year!

Happy 2019!

#2 The Sanctuary Sparrow by Ellis Peters

Another entertaining story in this series. I did not guess whodunit until very close to the end of the book, which I liked.

#3 The Children on Troublemaker Street by Astrid Lindgren

This is a story of three young children, siblings, and what trouble they get into on a regular basis. I enjoyed the read, but felt the author’s Noisy Village series was better.

Happy reading in 2019 fuzzi

I should add this to my goals for the year as well. I haven't made an attempt to read the Bible in its entirety or even specific books in a few years. And you did it January 1, well done!

>21 originalslicey: thank you. I've read the Bible through a number of times, but haven't in a while.

This year, though...

>20 calm: you too!

#4 Happy Times in Noisy Village by Astrid Lindgren

Noisy Village is the name given to a group of three farm houses due to the ruckus created by the six children who live there. Lisa, who is nine years old, narrates the fun and adventures she and her brothers and friends have all throughout the year. Woven within the story are a number of Swedish traditions such as dancing around the Mid-summer Eve pole. I first read this as a child but still loved the humor of situations and the personalities of the children upon reading it as an adult.

#5 Mark (King James Bible)

Mark is the second book of the New Testament, and is a shorter retelling of many of the same events in Matthew, including the two instances of feeding the masses (5000 and 4000 respectively). One of Jesus’ strongest “hellfire” sermons can be found in this book as well.

#6 The Daybreakers by Louis L’Amour

Tye and Orrin Sackett head west from the Tennessee hills, to make their fortune as well as find a home for their ma. They have their share of trials with herding longhorns, fighting Utes, and standing up to lawless gunmen.

This was the first published book about the Sackett family, and I think it’s one of the best. The situations are genuine, the characters are fleshed-out, real, and it was a great pleasure to spend time with them and their riding partners again for this reread.

You have had a great start to your reading year, fuzzi. Congratulations!

>26 alcottacre: thank you! Last year I was in a slump at this time.

>25 fuzzi: I'll probably get to The Daybreakers next week. I started to pull it off the shelf a couple days ago but had other books I wanted to get going with first.

#7 Luke (King James Bible)

The third book of the New Testament, Luke is more detailed than the previous two books, plus it has the very familiar story of the shepherds abiding in the fields, who go see the baby Jesu in the manger.

#8 Rocket Ship Galileo by Robert A. Heinlein

I've been valiantly attempting to finish this book, but at the halfway point I've given up, and admitting that I'm not interested in what happens. The story is not engaging at all, and the writing isn't up to par with this author's other works, including his other early "juvenile" books I've read.

Hi Fuzzi! I'm late making my rounds this year, but I'm glad to have found you. Happy 2019!

Wow - Eight books already - good for you!

I'm slow getting books done this year. I'm reading Lonesome Dove and really enjoying it. I should easily finish it for my RLBC meeting the last day of January - but its length is taking a tole on my January numbers; especially as I've joined the group read These Truths; A History of the United States, another 800 pager.

Asher Lev will be up next after LD. I think I remember you liking that one.

>31 streamsong: so glad you stopped by!

I'm doing so much better than last year at this time...let's see if I can keep up the pace.

Lonesome Dove was good, though I don't think I will be doing a reread anytime soon.

Asher Lev was a 5 star read for me, and I recommend it highly.

This week I've been putting off starting my nonfiction choice for the Chaim Potok challenge, as I have to take my dog to the vet for the last time, today. I have not felt like reading anything dreary or depressing right now.

"All go unto one place; all are of the dust, and all turn to dust again. Who knoweth the spirit of man that goeth upward, and the spirit of the beast that goeth downward to the earth?"

>32 fuzzi: I am sorry to hear that -- a sad and difficult task.

>32 fuzzi: So sorry, it is the hardest kind thing to do :'(

>33 foggidawn: >34 FAMeulstee: thank you.

From ElfQuest 2

>32 fuzzi: My sympathies in this difficult time. Wishing you comfort and consolation.

Happy New Year, fuzzi!

My sympathies, too. Parting with a beloved furry friend is one of life's toughest times. Hugs from Chicago.

>37 harrygbutler: and >38 jnwelch: thank you for your kindness.

I posted some photos of Tirzah in my reading register thread, here: https://www.librarything.com/topic/301181#6699843

So sorry to hear of the loss of your wonderful friend and the Tirzah shaped hole in your heart. (((Hugs))).

>39 fuzzi: Tirzah was a beautiful dog. Thank you for sharing the photos.

fuzzi, stopping by to say hello and star your thread, though I suspect I won't be able to keep up with you. Very sorry to hear about the loss of your pupper. Always hard to lose a loved one. I hope you're able to take time off to mourn her passing.

>40 streamsong: >41 harrygbutler: >42 justchris: I appreciate your sentiments, thank you.

No dog can replace Tirzah, but we are actively looking for her successor. There are so many adult dogs in need of a family, and we are in need of some furry therapy to assist with the grieving process. We visited with a Sharpei mix yesterday, and plan to meet a GSD today.

justchris thanks for the follow. Stop by when you can, and feel free to comment. :)

So sorry for your loss. I remember the pain of losing my old cat and then shortly after, the young barn cat that I was going to bring in was hit in the road. I was so grateful that when I found Peppa, she turned out to be a perfect fit into the household at the time. I hope your search for your next dog goes as well, and be sure to post pictures.

I'm a firm believer in animal souls, so I know that you'll be reunited with Tirzah when the time comes.

#9 Finity's End by CJ Cherryh (reread)

It's been almost 7 years to the day that I read this book, and it's even better than I recalled. I'm upping it to .

Here's my review from January 16, 2012:
I enjoyed this book tremendously as a reread this year. It's a little bit of a "growing up" sort of book, as the main character does a lot of that within the pages, but it's also a very good science fiction novel.

Highly recommended.

>32 fuzzi: I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your Tirzah. We lost our Skittles in June of last year and I still miss her.

>45 fuzzi: I am really going to have to give Cherryh a serious go at some point. My science fiction reading is woefully inadequate.

>46 alcottacre: thank you for your kind words. In my main thread I've posted photos, and information about Tirzah's successor, Cleo.

CJ Cherryh is my favorite Sci-fi author. She doesn't get graphic, but concentrates on developing worlds, political schemes, and her characters. There's lots of talk but action too. My favorites remain the Chanur series.

Hi, fuzzi. Finally out and visiting the threads. I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of Tirzah. It's so difficult to lose a pet. Cleo sounds like a wonderful dog - especially in that she is good with your cats.

Cleo is healing our hearts, what a sweetie:

>49 fuzzi: I am happy you and Cleo found eachother, enjoy!

Oh, Cleo is adorable! Big hugs to you and to her, for all sorts of reasons.

Look at that big old puppy-dog grin! What a cutie! :) And I've always had a soft spot for dogs with one upright and one floppy ear.

#10 Alliance Rising by CJ Cherryh

Cherryh has done it again. In Alliance Rising she has given us a deep, interesting, and satisfying prequel to her Hugo award winning Alliance universe books, full of three-dimensional characters and the usual political intrigue. I'll be anxiously awaiting the next book in this new series.

>53 fuzzi: I sure hope whoever is in the hold queue ahead of me gets through this quickly!

>54 quondame: I'm returning mine to the library tomorrow...too bad you don't live close by...

#11 John (King James Bible)

John is the fourth book of the New Testament, and starts with the same words as Genesis ("In the beginning"), then skips over Jesus' birth, going instead straight into John the Baptist's ministry. The first miracle is found in chapter 2, the verse often referenced at sporting events "John 3:16" is in chapter 3, the woman at the well story is found in chapter 4, and the Good Shepherd attributes are described in chapter 10. This is also considered one of the first books any new Christian should read, for various reasons.

#12 Old Men at Midnight by Chaim Potok

I've read other works by this author, loving the characters surrounded by an authenticity that settled deep, putting me in the stories. In the three novellas contained within the covers of Old Men at Midnight I found myself, again, within the stories, immersed to the exclusion of outside distractions...but I had a hard time finding something to like about the people within his tales. Four stars for execution, three stars for likability.

>49 fuzzi: What a happy puppy! I wish I could meet her. I hope Cleo brings you much comfort and joy.

>45 fuzzi: and >53 fuzzi:: Two Cherryh books I haven't read!

>56 fuzzi: Good to know about John. I've never been very successful with the Bible. Every now and then I make an attempt, then put it down again after a book or maybe two.

>58 justchris: Cleo brings joy to everyone. I took her with me to Petsmart this morning, and she loved on everyone, but especially with a four year old whose mother said was recently diagnosed with ADHD. Cleo might do well as a therapy dog.

Both of those books by CJ Cherryh were about the same ship but decades apart in time. Both are recommended.

Have I asked you what is your favorite Cherryh book?

One book of the Bible at a time is good. Years ago a gentleman at our church suggested I read one chapter of Proverbs each day, to finish it once a month. I did that for several years...it's easy enough, and there's always something new each time I read it.

>59 fuzzi: Serpent's Reach is my favorite, closely followed by Wave Without a Shore, and Chanur is my favorite series.

I can't remember if Proverbs is one I read. I know I read Ruth and Job and Ecclesiastes. And I tried Genesis but got bogged down in all the "begats."

>60 justchris: some of the OT books can be a challenge. I'm reminded of the Greek plays I read in high school English class, in which the Chorus would go on and on and on...modern readers aren't as used to that.

Ruth is lovely, but Esther is too. So much of Psalms can be comforting, or beautiful. And most of the New Testament is a fairly short read.

I'm putting Wave Without a Shore on my short list to read, thanks. Chanur is my favorite series as well, with the Morgaine books a close second. And I really liked The Faded Sun trilogy, too.

#13 Double or Quit by Joyce Stranger

In this final book of the series, author Joyce Stranger has to make a decision: to double her "pack" by adding another dog, or quit field trial and obedience work altogether due to her dog Chita's advancing age. She takes on Josse, a young dog who with issues due to having several owners within a few months. Josse needs help adjusting, and how Joyce brings him closer to "normalcy" makes for an interesting and enjoyable story.

I wish there were more books about Josse.

I'm doing another read-thru this year. I'm following the "Eat This Book" plan on YouVersion and using the Tree of Life Version this year which is a Messianic Jewish translation. It's interesting because it inserts Hebrew terms for several concepts. I've used the Eat This Book plan before with another translation and enjoyed it.

>63 thornton37814: thanks! I'm just using my plain King James bible as usual, but I know there are other options available. :)

Technically my NT reads are with a Gideon's NT, which is light and easy to hold as opposed to my main Bible.

>49 fuzzi: Look at that doggie grin! Who could not fall in love with that?

>65 alcottacre: and there's a lot of snuggle and tongue with that grin...our hearts were stolen from the first.

#14 Little Otter is Missing by Kenneth Grahame (abridged)
Decent retelling of a chapter from The Wind in the Willows, but the illustrations are both good and awful.


#15 The Wild Wood by Kenneth Graham (abridged)
Well-done retelling of a chapter from The Wind in the Willows, and the illustrations are good, for the most part.

Both of these are headed for my granddaughter!

#16 Acts (King James Bible)

Acts (of the Apostles) is the 5th book in the New Testament. It is believed that the author of Acts is Luke, Apostle Paul's friend, a physician, who also wrote the book of Luke. Acts reads more like a traditional "story", with very little doctrine but mostly "he went here and did this" sort of narrative.

My "comfort" reread last night, review from 2013 included:


#17 A Horse Called Mystery by Marjorie Reynolds

Owlie is lame, wears glasses, and has a deaf mute mother, which makes him the object of taunts and bullying. He spends his spare time with his dog or visiting the worn down horses for hire in town. When one of the horses is slated to be sold for slaughter because it is lame, Owlie acts upon impulse and buys it, even though he has never ridden before. How he grows and matures while caring for Mystery is believable and enjoyable.

The story is aimed at adolescents but is a good read for adults who don't mind a "happy" ending.

>69 fuzzi: That does sound enjoyable. I'll have to remember if I should run across it at a library sale.

>67 fuzzi: I like how the illustrations are both "good and awful" at the same time; a little clarification, please? What did you like and what didn't you like?

>71 CassieBash: let's just say they were uneven. The nature pictures of flowers, trees, and most animals, were good, but the faces of the main characters like Ratty and Mole were...weird, didn't fit.

>70 harrygbutler: I have a spare copy...

Marjorie Reynolds wrote several books about horses and teens who were in less than Sunnybrook Farm type situations, but the tales were so well-written as to be enjoyable. Some authors manipulate the reader but she just tells her stories. I like all her works.

#18 Can I Keep Him? by Steven Kellogg

I kept laughing over this short story about a young boy who keeps begging his mother for a pet. The illustrations are classic Kellogg, with lots going on in the background and margins. This one is heading straight to my granddaughter!

>73 fuzzi: It was a sweet and funny book. I did the same when I was young: bringing home stray dogs and cats, I wasn't allowed to keep them eithr...

#19 Lando by Louis L'Amour

As a child Lando is left in the care of a faithless neighbor, but within a few years strikes out on his own, heading west. His travels take him eventually to Texas and Mexico, competing with outlaws and relatives on a quest for gold. Standard but enjoyable fare from this author.

>74 FAMeulstee: as a child I wanted to bring home stray animals, but knew I wouldn't be able to keep them, so I didn't.

Happy Sunday, fuzzi!

>77 alcottacre: happy end-of-the-weekend!

>73 fuzzi: Kellogg has been one of my favorite illustrators since childhood.

>72 fuzzi: I'm in no rush to read it, but if you'd like to set the extra copy aside for me, I'd be glad to get it sometime.

>75 fuzzi: I have my copy sitting by my main reading chair, and I expect it will be the next book I start.

Wow! You are really racking up the book numbers this year - congratulations! And also congrats for keeping up with your reviews. I vow to do better with mine this year.

>57 fuzzi: I need to read more Potok, but this sounds like one I can skip for a while.

>72 fuzzi: Ah, facial issues. Got it. Some artists do have issues with expressions and anthropomorphic illustrations.

>80 harrygbutler: I think you meant >72 fuzzi:. The polar vortex has garbled the numbers! :D

>82 CassieBash: Yep, that's right! :-) Thanks!

#20 Wave Without a Shore by CJ Cherryh

Wow. Just wow. In this short novel Cherryh does what she usually does in her stories, creates a world, and culture, both alien and familiar...but this time it's on a scale that even she rarely attains. With virtually no fighting or other actions so common in SciFi, she hurls the reader along in this story of an artist who went too far and threatened a society conditioned to be blind to reality. Superb.

>79 foggidawn: I recall Kellogg from my children's library books, will have to find more.

>80 harrygbutler: I'll keep it for you.

>81 streamsong: thank you. What a difference from last year when I was stuck in a reading slump until mid-January!

I've read The Chosen, The Promise, and Asher Lev, all were good, very good.

>82 CassieBash: some of the faces just, well, SUCKED.

>84 fuzzi: That volume always leave me feeling like I'm floating outside a space station.

>69 fuzzi: and >73 fuzzi: sound lovely. Somehow, I didn't find these authors when I was in my animal-mad childhood and devouring all the animal stories I could find. I read a bunch of the Jim Kjelgaard stories, The Call of the Wild, wild animal stories like Vulpes the Red Fox and Bubo the Great Horned Owl and Fifteen Rabbits but not that many kid and animal stories beyond what Black Stallion books I could get my hands on and Where the Red Fern Grows. Also, some anthropomorphized animal stories like the classic you referenced above, plus Mrs Frisbee and the Rats of NIMH, Odyssey from River Bend, Rabbit Hill, stuff like that. I guess I was way more focused on wild animals.

>85 fuzzi: Thanks!

>84 fuzzi: I am currently reading Cherryh's Downbelow Station. I will have to give that one a go next. Thanks for the BB, fuzzi!

Happy Wednesday!

>87 justchris: another Kjelgaard fan, woo!

For more animal books suitable for both child and adult reading try Glenn Balch and Thomas Hinkle for horse/dog stories, Jack O'Brien's first three Silver Chief books, and any number of Albert Payson Terhune books about collies.

James Oliver Curwood wrote Kazan, Baree, and The Bear, the last which was made into a move a few years ago.

Rutherford Montgomery and Joseph Wharton Lippincott also wrote about both domesticated and wild animals.

I recall Vulpes, and there was a book by the same author about a mink. Jean George was also the writer of the My Side of the Mountain series, though the first was the best.

I also read a lot of stories by Ernest Thompson Seton, but I'm too tender-hearted now to go back to them. I hate it when an animal dies at the end. :(

If a book had an animal on the cover, I would pick it up and attempt to read it. Back when I was about 9 I saw a hardback displayed at the public library with a black and white collie on the cover. It was in the adult section of the library but the lovely librarians allowed me to borrow it. The story of a boy and a wild puppy, Rex, introduced me to a fantastic author, Joyce Stranger. She wrote numerous books about animals, suitable for adolescents but with deeper insights for her adult audience. My most favorite is probably The Running Foxes. If you've never read anything of hers, I highly, HIGHLY, recommend her works.

>88 harrygbutler: you are most welcome.

>89 alcottacre: excellent. Don't let the complexities of that one slow you down. I've likened Cherryh's stories to a roller coaster ride: slow start, then a rush the rest of the way, with no way of getting off!

>90 fuzzi: Wow, that is certainly a lot of potential books to read among all of them! Looking through their listings, one or two titles look familiar, so I may have read some of them in the past, but clearly not enough or I would have remembered them.

>92 justchris: I was an avid reader as a child, and to a certain extent, still am one. :)

#21 Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

Somewhat entertaining read. I did get a little weary of the repeated moral preaching by adults.

>94 fuzzi: Fair summary of Little Women, I think, Fuzzi.

>95 PaulCranswick: I loved Five Little Peppers as a child, and The Bobbsey Twins, but had a hard time with rereads years later for similar reasons. But some books like Anne of Green Gables transition from childhood to an adult read just fine.

Yeah, there is a surprising amount of preaching in Little Women. Like you, I still enjoyed it.

>97 jnwelch: ::waves::

#22 The Marriage of Mary Russell by Laurie R King

This was a thoroughly enjoyable romp with two of my favorite characters. A must for fans of the author's Russell & Holmes series, but also worth a read for those new to these books.

#23 Mary Russell's War by Laurie R King

This is a collection of short stories in the Russell-Holmes universe. Some I'd read before, but all were entertaining and worth perusal.

#24 How To Give Your Cat a Bath in Five Easy Steps by Nicola Winstanley and John Martz

HAHAHA! I loved this book as an adult for the humor, and can't wait to read it to a child who will love the little details on each page. Well done!

>101 fuzzi: LOL My boys say they bathe one another so I don't need to do it.

>102 thornton37814: that's kind of the point of the book, but it takes the little girl a while to "get it". Very, very funny, well-written and illustrated book for all ages.

#25 Christmas in Noisy Village by Astrid Lindgren

Delightful picture book story from the Noisy Village series. The illustrations are so whimsical, I could spend hours pouring over each page, and the Swedish holiday traditions within are similar to those of my own family.

Happy Valentine's Day!! ❤️💚💗💙

>105 ChelleBearss: thank you!

#26 Texas Vendetta by Elmer Kelton

I believe this was my first read by author Elmer Kelton, but it won't be my last. In this tale from the late 1800s we see a glimpse of Texas Rangers' jobs, and also the lives of those they were sworn to capture. Never sensational, but believable, this book was entertaining. The characters were well-written, and the violence was not graphic. Recommended for anyone wanting a "good story".

Now to find the rest of the books in the series...

>53 fuzzi: As glad as I am to have another C.J. Cherryh Alliance-Union book, I'm not quite as thrilled as you are by Alliance Rising. Good reading, but more place holding than impression making.

>108 quondame: different impressions. One thing demonstrated on LT is how one person's 5 star read is only a 1 star for another.

I wasn't impressed by Little Women, but others adore it.

>109 fuzzi: Little Women is much less likely to go down easy in this era than in the mid-20th when I first read, and had my own fledgling issues with it. But it comes from a time when books overwhelmingly put women into second place actors in their own life when granted any autonomy at all. I certainly never held it as a childhood favorite, but could easily relate to the depression era generation who raised me, who found a great deal of value in it's insistent messaging.

>110 quondame: yet I love Jane Eyre, Anne of Green Gables, Pride and Prejudice, and others of earlier times where women had fewer freedoms and options.

Maybe sanctimonious might be a better description for my impression of Little Women.

>111 fuzzi: I judge the three you've mentioned all celebrate what is unusual in their protagonists, while LW is way more focused on conventional good behavior and is preachy where none of those are. Yes, consequences are noted, but that is considered sufficient for the alert. But preachy doesn't turn off all readers, though I have a pretty low tolerance level.

#27 1 Thessalonians (King James Bible)
#28 2 Thessalonians (King James Bible)

These two short books in the New Testament are probably the oldest of the Pauline epistles, letters written around 50AD to a young (new) church located in Thessalonica.

One of the descriptions of the rapture of the Church is contained in these writings, as well as some prophetic information.

Each of these books is a simple yet informative read, and especially helpful to a new Christian.

#29 The Good Old Boys by Elmer Kelton

This is not a western.

To clarify, this is a really good story about people living in Texas in 1906. Changes are coming in the form of the automobile, and the old way of the cowboy is waning.

It's good, very good, and recommended.

#30 There's an Alligator Under My Bed by Mercer Mayer

When my children were small we owned a similar book, There's a Nightmare in My Closet, but this one is good, too. The small boy in this tale has an alligator living under his bed, but when his parents check they never see it. How is he supposed to handle the situation? Told with funny illustrations.

---

#31 The Tale of Tom Kitten by Beatrix Potter

I have only read one other book by this author before reading The Tale of Tom Kitten. The pictures are adorable, the story is cute, and I think younger children and their parents would enjoy reading about the naughty deeds of the three kittens in the story.

#32 Little Farm in the Ozarks by Roger Lea MacBride

Nice follow-up to the first book in the series about Rose, the daughter of Laura from the Little House books. I'll be reading the next book, and possibly the others as well.

#33 An Old Woman's Reflections by Peig Sayers

An interesting collection of stories from an Irish "story-teller" who lived most of her life on an isolated island. It's translated from Gaelic into English, but much of the original lyrical prose is still evident. Worth reading.

Thank you MrsLee for sharing this one with me.

>115 fuzzi: There's an Alligator Under my Bed is Nate's childhood fave and he reads it to Chloe often. :)

>118 ChelleBearss: awww. How cute!


#34 Sackett by Louis L'Amour

In this book we meet William Tell Sackett, older brother to Ty and Orrin who we first met in The Daybreakers. Tell has been drifting since the War, and decides it's time to do something with his life. He stumbles upon gold, and a girl, and trouble, as usual.

I love Tell and his laid back attitude. He's prefers to use humor to confuse and confound those who are spoiling for a fight, and I found myself laughing at times as I reread Sackett. This story remains a favorite of mine.

#35 In the Presence of My Enemies by Gracia Burnham

Satisfactory read about a missionary couple kidnapped and held for ransom in the Philippines for over a year. The flashbacks were distracting from the survival story, which was actually interesting.

>119 fuzzi: L'Amour always delivered didn't he?

The missionaries had some hair-raising stories, didn't they? A favorite of mine was Captive of the Simbas, which I reread several times, but not for quite a few years.

>121 PaulCranswick: yes he did, and still does!

>122 streamsong: they are braver than me!

#36 Romans (King James Bible)

This is probably Paul's best known epistle (letter) to the believers in Rome. In this book of the New Testament are many doctrinal concepts explained by the former Pharisee and persecutor of Christians. There are several verses and/or concepts within that are familiar to even the youngest Bible-believer, as well as the verses referred to as the "Roman Road", through which many a person has been led to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. There's also quite a bit of stronger meat, doctrine, which may not be understood immediately. One of the best books to study imo.

#37 Princess Puffybottom and Darryl by Susin Nielsen and Olivia Chin Mueller

The three stars is for the cute premise and some of the illustrations, only. Maybe I am old fashioned, but having vomit and cat feces and a dog urinating prominently featured in a book for young children is unnecessary and unfortunate, in my opinion.

#38 Middlemarch by George Eliot

A thoughtful yet entertaining read about the people and customs of an English town from the earlier part of the 19th century. The characters are very well drawn, their personalities are not superficial, and I was willingly dragged into the story, something I expect a very well-written book should do. This tale is never boring, but as the sentences often have deeper meanings one needs to take time to read this work slowly, unhurried, and without distraction. Quite good and worth the time and effort. Solid.

<126 Oh good, fuzzi. I'm a fan of Middlemarch, and that's a lovely description of it. Go Dorothea!

>126 fuzzi: I liked Middlemarch too, which was unexpected as I did not think I was into that kind of story. The characters were excellent.

#39 Prince Valiant: Volume 6 by Hal Foster

Val follows a kidnapped Aleta across the Atlantic Ocean and has adventures in the Americas. Sounds far-fetched, but it's done in a deft manner that makes the storyline believable. Excellent art as usual, and lots of "extras" about the artist.

#40 Midnight is a Place by Joan Aiken

The author has a writing style that appealed to me as a child, but as an adult it still has me turning the pages of her books with alacrity, wondering how each situation will be resolved. There is only a little foreshadowing, too, though the younger reader might miss subtle references altogether. Good characters, twisty plots, and enough descriptions to illustrate the tale without bogging it down.

#41 Mojave Crossing by Louis L'Amour

Tell Sackett finds himself "saddled" with a lady-in-distress who might not be either! Enjoyable tale, with lots of action and less contemplation. Recommended, but try to read the earlier books in the Sackett series in order.

#42 Woods Runner by Gary Paulsen

Of all the books that I have read by this author there was only one I did not care for...and this one isn't it!

Woods Runner is a good tale of a 13 year old boy growing up on the western Pennsylvania frontier of the late 1700s. While most of the people in the settlement like their neighbors and bucolic lifestyle, young Samuel takes to the woods where he is most comfortable, disappearing for days while exploring, as well as hunting for the community.

But while he is on one of his trips a force of British troops and Hessian mercenaries attack and destroy the settlement, massacring most of the people yet taking a few as prisoners...including Samuel's parents.

This one is a page-turner, a book I could not put down until I found out how things turned out. While categorized as a youth book, it also is a fine adult read.

#43 Bristlenoses: Catfish With Character by Kathy Jinkings

Entertaining and highly informative book about a popular variety of "suckermouth" catfish kept by hobbyists. There's some anecdotal aspects about the species, but also plenty of technical information that wasn't overwhelming to the amateur fish-keeper. There are a lot of photos and diagrams taken from scientific studies, too. Recommended for anyone interested in freshwater tropical fish.

>133 fuzzi: I love suckermouth catfish--but I don't have a good way to keep fish (except for the outside pond).

>134 CassieBash: if you were closer I'd give you my spare 20g tank. It's sitting in the shed as I found a 29g at a yard sale that I now use.

Waving hello. It looks like you're continuing to read a wide variety of books. Great reviews!

Waving back! Thanks. I try to make each review interesting.

Wishing you a lovely Sunday, Fuzzi.

>138 PaulCranswick: thank you! It's finally sunny, and warm, 75-80F. We're going to cook hamburgers and brats on the grill.

>135 fuzzi: I don't have much overall luck with fish, not even goldfish, unless they're living in the pond where they can pretty much do their thing without much need for human intervention. Thanks, but if you gave me a 20g tank, I'd probably use it for caterpillars. (I'm picturing how many red admirals or swallowtails I could fit in a 20g tank now....) :)

>140 CassieBash: bwahahahaha!

If we were driving past your area...naw, the boys would object to me carrying a 20g in the trunk during a trip, ha.

>141 fuzzi: Yeah, that would take up a bit of room.... :))

#44 Buckskin Line by Elmer Kelton

In this, the first book of the Texas Rangers series by Elmer Kelton, we find ourselves in the midst of a Comanche raid on homesteaders in 1840s Texas. A red-headed toddler is both prized and despised by the war party who kills his family. His story, as well as the Comanche who wants to keep him for his own, are interspersed throughout this tale. Good, engrossing read, and recommended.

Meant to do this sooner...

First Quarter Best Reads (and Worst): January to March 2019

4 Star Reads

There's an Alligator Under My Bed by Mercer Mayer
Can I Keep Him? by Steven Kellogg
Christmas in Noisy Village by Astrid Lindgren
The Marriage of Mary Russell by Laurie R King
How To Give a Cat a Bath by Nicola Winstanley (Early Reviewer)
Prince Valiant Vol 6 by Hal Foster

4 Star Rereads

The Daybreakers by Louis L'Amour
Sackett by Louis L'Amour

4.5 Star Reads

Alliance Rising by CJ Cherryh
The Good Old Boys by Elmer Kelton
Middlemarch by George Eliot

4.5 Star Rereads

Finity's End by CJ Cherryh

5 Star Reads

Wave Without a Shore by CJ Cherryh

5 Star Rereads

Books from the King James Bible: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts, Romans, I & II Thessalonians

Stinkers

Little Otter is Missing by Jane Carruth
Rocket Ship Galileo by Robert Heinlein

#45 The Black Shrike by Alistair MacLean

This is one of the best books I've read (so far!) by Alistair MacLean. It's cold war counter espionage stuff from about 60 years ago, so is a little dated, but it holds up well.

What I really liked, apart from the twisty plot, is the humanity and fallibility of the main character. He might be an agent, but he's no James Bond, though a bit more like MacGyver!

This one is definitely a keeper.

#46 The Iliad by Gareth Hinds

I cannot comment on the accuracy of this adaption as I have never read the Iliad, and am unfamiliar with the story. I felt that the illustrations ranged from excellent to fair; some were a bit "graphic" (one frame depicted a warrior's eyes falling out). I liked and appreciated the cast of characters depicted at the front of the book, and the map and author's notes at the end. Despite the violent nature of the story, I did like this illustrated version.

Happy Easter, Lor!

I've finally started your rec The Lone Winter. It's a nice change from the book about Columbine that I just finished for.my Real Life Book Club.

I think I needed to.wait until winter was.over.to start this one.

>147 streamsong: Happy Easter backatcha!

I recall as I was reading The Lone Winter that I kept expecting to see snow whenever I looked outside. I love how the author puts you in her situation. Enjoy.

Spring is coming...it's already here in NC although it's been chillier than average. We'll be hitting 80s again later in the week, but no real warm weather.

#47 The Collected Short Stories of Louis L'Amour, Volume 1: Frontier Stories
by Louis L'Amour

Excellent collection of stories about the west by one of the best sources of the genre, Louis L'Amour. It includes my favorites "One For the Pot" and "War Party" as well as others. One of the best in this volume is "The Gift of Cochise", which was later extended into the novel Hondo.

#48 The Sackett Brand by Louis L'Amour

Tell Sackett is hunted by the hired guns of a cattle baron who is trying to cover up a crime. Can Tell survive until other Sacketts arrive to join the fray? Or will he handle them all on his own?

Good entry in the Sackett series, in which we also meet other members of the author's fictional family.

#49 Cicada by Shaun Tan

Another thought-provoking fun book by this author and artist.

#50 Llano River by Elmer Kelton

Another good story by this author, with depth to the characters and a storyline with a twist. Read and enjoyed, and back on the shelves for a later reread!

#51 The Winter Room by Gary Paulsen

The seasons of the year, as told first-person through the perspective of an eleven year old boy, living on a farm in northern Minnesota.The descriptions of what he associates with each season are not typical; several times I paused and thought over his view of what might be considered mundane tasks. Caution: he does describe the slaughter of farm animals for food in a slightly graphic manner, but did not revel in it. As tender-hearted as I am, I was able to handle it. Good read.

#52 Prince Valiant, Vol. 7: 1949-1950 by Hal Foster

In this volume Prince Val has more adventures: some glamorous, some mundane, and some humorous. I love how the artist adds little everyday scenes within the stories of derring do. Thoroughly enjoyable, and the artwork is superb as always.

#53 Barry: the Story of a Wolf Dog by Thomas C Hinkle

An adequate story by an author whose other books I have enjoyed more. The characters were two-dimensional, and I never felt drawn into the story. Not my favorite by Thomas C. Hinkle, but worth finishing.

#54 First Corinthians (King James Bible)

Paul the apostle writes words of advice to a church that is caught up in unimportant things, and is forgetting about Jesus.

#55 Mermaid Dreams by Kate Pugsley

Maya goes to the beach with her parents, but is too shy to introduce herself to one of the many children playing in the sand. But then she discovers a place of mystery, and perhaps a friend as well?

Cute story, simple colorful pictures. This one heads for my granddaughter's bookshelves.

#56 Irish Red by Jim Kjelgaard (reread)

Still my favorite of all this author's books, and suitable for all ages.

#57 Second Corinthians (King James Bible)

Paul's second letter to the church at Corinth, with lots of wisdom and excellent advice for that young congregation.

You are coming along well on your Bible reading. My plan has me finishing up Psalms for the first time this year and Song of Solomon today. It's a plan where you read through the entire Bible once and the book of Psalms twice.

>160 thornton37814: thanks. I started with the NT this year since I only got through most of the OT in 2018...so I'm still not as far along as I'd like.

I've seen your reading plan before though I've not tried it myself. Enjoy!

Jenn has posted a link for free online copies of all of Schmitz' work in those Baen compilations on the group read thread!
https://www.librarything.com/topic/307199#6833006

>162 ronincats: thanks!

#58 Bear's Book by Claire Freedman

I adore this simple and sweet tale of a bear who loves books. The illustrations are whimsical, and the narrative is just right for a young child's story-time. This one is going to my granddaughter!

#59 Bertha and the Frog Choir by Luc Foccroulle

Delightful tale of frogs just wanting to be themselves, even if it isn't what others expect.

#60 God's Secretaries: the Making of the King James Bible by Adam Nicolson

This is not a Christian work. It is a history of the people and the times surrounding the translation and publication of the world's best-selling book. And it is an engaging account, with only a little bit of bias exhibited in the writing.

The author used and credited the research of others, expanding it whenever possible with recent discoveries from the ancient libraries of England. Unfortunately the majority of documentation was lost over the centuries, especially in the Great Fire of London in 1666, and the full history is hidden. The people involved in the making of the King James Bible are not vilified (for the most part), but are shown for what they were: flawed but mainly sincere men from religious and non-religious vocations within seventeenth century Britain.

Having already read about the religious persecutions of the time, I was disappointed in what I perceived as a recurring bias against the Puritan and Separatist movements, but the author did a good job recounting the history of the group that would later land in the new world and be known as the Pilgrims. I was also disappointed that he repeated the oft-told but disputable claims of some regarding manuscript evidence, but for most readers it won't matter.

Overall, a good though flawed history.

#61 The Big Wave by Pearl S Buck

Short, poignant story of two Japanese youths and how a natural disaster affects their lives. Apparently intended for a younger audience but a nice read for adults as well.

#62 The Sky-liners by Louis L'Amour

Flagan and Galloway Sackett are brothers who head west with an reluctant rescue, pursued by a gang determined to recapture the young lady and kill the Sacketts in the process. More action, less retrospection and self-examination in this volume, which I liked.

>166 fuzzi: I really should read that one sometime.

#63 The Big Book of Favorite Horse Stories, Twenty-Five Outstanding Stories By Distinguished Authors by Sam Savitt

I've read my share of short story collections, and most were mediocre. However, this book of "favorite" stories is definitely above average, with some recognizable classics (chapters from My Friend Flicka, Black Beauty) and others that were new to me. The only story I skipped was one I despised from my childhood, The Gift (aka The Red Pony).

This is not a child's book of pony tales, but works that encompass adult and young readers alike. Enjoy.

#64 Dark Horse by Jean Slaughter Doty

Better than average story of a mistreated horse, told in first-person by a teen who loves horses. It's not a formula tale of a horse being retrained into a world-class champion, but is more sober, based in reality. Definitely keeping this one for a future reread.

>171 fuzzi: Jean Slaughter Doty is a great horse author; as you said, her stories are based in reality rather than being a Cinderella-type thing, where the horse becomes world-famous for something. (not saying it can't happen; The Story of Snowman is proof of that it does, but it's not an everyday occurence). I recommend Summer Pony, about a girl who rents a starving pony for the summer from a man who has one of those pony ride attractions you see at carnivals and events. Apparently, she wrote a sequel (which I haven't read) called Winter Pony.

>172 CassieBash: I have read Winter Pony and liked it. At the used book sale I recalled this author's name and loved the cover so I brought Dark Horse home.

#65 Legacy by James H Schmitz

Fairly standard scifi work with two-dimensional characters. There were some interesting plot twists, and a strong female lead. Entertaining.

#66 Galatians (King James Bible)

One of the earliest books of the NT, this epistle is written to a fairly new church in Galatia. Paul's letter is aimed at a group of young believers being deceived by people with ulterior motives and an agenda of control. It's a fairly simple work, full of doctrines of grace and faith versus those of works and law.

#67 Badger Boy by Elmer Kelton

Engaging follow-up to the first in this author's "Ranger" series. The Civil War is ending, the rangers are being disbanded, and a young Texan heads home to an uncertain future as a young white captive Comanche is headed for trouble in his eagerness to be as good as the non-white Comanches in his tribe. Good read.

#68 Arthur, For the Very First Time by Patricia MacLachlan

Arthur's parents are having problems, so he winds up at his great-aunt and uncle's farm for the summer. He meets a chicken that responds to commands in French, sees a pregnant pig that likes being serenaded in song by Arthur's great-uncle, meets a neighborhood girl who calls him "Mouse".

And then things get interesting.

Cute story, with Arthur learning more about himself than he ever though of before.

#69 Cassie Binegar by Patricia MacLachlan

Cassie has an eccentric family that embarrasses her. She wishes they would be more like the "perfect" family of her best friend. And she wants a place of her own, away from the maddening crowd around her.

I was disappointed with this tale by an author whose other works I have thoroughly enjoyed. I never felt engaged, nor did I care much about the people in the story.

#70 Ephesians (King James Bible)

#71 Philippians (King James Bible)

#72 Colossians (King James Bible)

#73 The Voyage of the Frog by Gary Paulsen

A riveting tale of a young man who takes his deceased uncle's sailing boat out beyond sight of the land, in order to fulfill a promise, and meets more than he ever imagined.

I'm tempted to give this one four stars.

#74 The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall

What a fun read! This is the story of sisters who act like real children: they argue, have misadventures, make friends, and all this without any taint of schmaltz or pretension, a tale that an adult can read and enjoy. Thanks to whoever on LT who recommended this book. Now, on to book #2!

You're getting very close to the magic 75th book!

>181 fuzzi: I’ll take the credit, as I’m always pushing that series! So glad you liked it.

>182 thornton37814: I am, thanks! If I weren't on vacation I'd probably be there by now.

>183 foggidawn: I think it was in one of your threads that I read about The Penderwicks, thank you!

#75 Brian the Brave by Paul Stewart and Jane Porter

Fairly standard retelling of the main-character-ostracized-for-outer-appearances-but-who-becomes-a-hero-in-the-end tale. I liked the illustrations, which reminded me of Leo Lionni's work.

Congratulations for hitting 75 aready, Fuzzi.

Have a great weekend.

>185 fuzzi: Yay on #75!

Congratulations on 75 fuzzi!

I've just discovered that I haven't visited you since the beginning of the year. Lots of interesting books, including the ones going to your granddaughter. Unfortunately my kids are too old to give me an excuse to buy them. :0)

Congrats on reaching 75!

Congrats!

>186 PaulCranswick: >187 quondame: >188 humouress: >189 thornton37814: >190 drneutron: thank you, all!

Just got back from vacation and am catching up on LT.

>188 humouress: the library might have copies... ;)

Congrats on 75!

Adding my congratulations on reaching 75, fuzzi!

Yes, congrats on 75! Looking forward to hearing about your vacation adventures.

Belated congratulations on reaching 75, fuzzi!

#76 The Lonely Men by Louis L'Amour

Good solid entry in the Sackett series about Tell Sackett being sent into Mexico to locate and rescue a child taken captive by an Apache tribe. Enjoyable.

>192 CassieBash: >193 jnwelch: >194 streamsong: >195 FAMeulstee: thanks all.

July is going to probably be one of my weakest months, so it's good to be ahead for the year!

Congratulations on passing 75 books for the year!

#77 The Way of the Coyote by Elmer Kelton

Andy, aka Badger Boy, is growing up, and still trying to adjust to white men's ways. Sadistic law officers have infiltrated Texas, and are using their official positions to steal land and possessions from any settlers who they claim are Confederate. And if things weren't confusing enough, some from Andy's Comanche family raid his white family, stealing away a young child. How can this former captive balance his white heritage with his Indian upbringing? Good continuation of this author's Texas Ranger series.

>198 harrygbutler: thank you! Slow and steady...

#78 The Magic Finger by Roald Dahl

A story of payback for those who make you see red...love the illustrations!

Holds up well as an adult read.

and


#79 The Enormous Crocodile by Roald Dahl

Very creative story, wonderful illustrations...kids and adults with a sense of humor should enjoy!

#80 The Serpent Never Sleeps by Scott O'Dell

A well-researched story about early 1600s England and the colony of Jamestown, but somewhat disjointed, with no "heart", and lacking something to make me care about the people or the situations.

#81 The Cookcamp by Gary Paulsen

Gary Paulsen has written many coming-of-age stories about boys, but this tale of a five year old boy away from his mother for the first time is special. His father is away from home, fighting overseas, while his mother works at a factory. Impulsively she sends her son by train to her mother, who is working in a cookcamp deep within the Minnesota woods.

I love how the boy sees the world around him, the growing relationship with his grandmother, and the bond that is formed between him and the older truckers, men building a road through the wilderness. A gem.

#82 Appalling Stories 2: More Appalling Tales of Social Injustice by Various Authors

Mixed bag of stories about political correctness run amuck. While I agree with most of the views contained within, a couple of the authors seemed to try too hard to present their position. However, one of the tales, "Angel of Death", was quite good, the reason the book was gifted to me. Skip the ones that seem contrived and enjoy the remainder of the entries.

#83 I Heard the Owl Call My Name by Margaret Craven

Touching story of a priest sent to live with a native American tribe, and how he came to be one with them. Not maudlin or melodramatic, just a gentle tale of friendship.

>205 fuzzi: I've been wanting to read that one for awhile, and >202 fuzzi: looks good, too. I'll have to check out both (eventually!). :)

>206 CassieBash: the title was familiar, but the story was not, glad I came across it on the thrift store's bookshelves.

#84 The Menace From Earth by Robert Heinlein

This is another good collection of short stories by Robert Heinlein, most written in the 1940s and 1950s. The dated aspect of some of the technology mentioned is easily overlooked for the intriguing plots and interesting characters of each tale. Definitely recommended, and not just for fans of this author.

Wishing you a lovely weekend, Fuzzi

Oh, that Paulsen is new to me. I've enjoyed a bunch of his books now, and I'm sure you got me going on some of them. This will go onto the WL.

I loved I Heard the Owl Call My Name when I was a kid. It was also one of my mother's favorites, so it was good to share that.

>209 PaulCranswick: thank you! My dad and I installed a ceiling fan...he's 91 and supplied the know-how, I provided the extra hands.

>210 jnwelch: I keep finding Paulsen books at the used bookstore. There's only one of his works that I disliked.

#85 Mustang Man by Louis L'Amour

In this installment of the Sackett series our protagonist is Nolan Sackett, one of a set of twins, and a member of the Clinch Mountain Sackett families. He's big, rough and tough, but with a soft heart for a pretty young lady who needs a knight in shining armor...or does she? Good read, highly enjoyable.

>202 fuzzi: I liked O'Dell's Island of the Blue Dolphins, though it's been a while and it's the only one of his books that I've read.

>213 humouress: Island of the Blue Dolphins was my childhood introduction to Scott O'Dell, and I loved it. There's a sequel to that book, Zia, which I read a couple years ago and liked.

Now I'm wanting to re-read Island of the Blue Dolphins. I haven't read it in 30 years or longer.

>215 thornton37814: *dusts hands off* ;0)

#86 The Devil's Novice by Ellis Peters

The latest addition to the abbey is a young man with night terrors...what sins has he committed in order to act this way? Brother Cadfael works out the clues as usual. I thought I knew the murderer this time, but the motive was not apparent until the end. Good read, as always.

#87 A Gathering of Old Men by Ernest J. Gaines

A well-drawn and balanced tale of fundamental changes in a society and of the people who either choose to adapt or not, both suffering consequences of perceived progress. I found myself immersed in the story, as told in first-person by those present, and never felt that I was being manipulated emotionally by the author. Nicely written.

#88 Aquatic Gardens Ponds, Streams, Waterfalls & Fountains: Volume 1. Design & Construction & Maintenance (Or the World According to Carp) by Robert Fenner

Not a "How To...For Dummies" book, but a comprehensive guide for the more serious-minded water garden enthusiast. There are diagrams as well as instructions from A to Z, including directions to create concrete water features, though only a brief mention of preform pond liners. This would be a worthwhile read for someone who wants to create a pond that will last.

#89 Ice Station Zebra by Alistair MacLean

A slow-starting but very satisfying tale of rescue and espionage in the Arctic. While slightly dated, the Cold War references shouldn't keep the reader from enjoying this adventure.

#90 The Wild Heart by Helen Griffiths

I recall reading a portion of this story in a grade school textbook, but until recently never found a copy of the entire book to find out how everything ended. Here's my review:

This is a realistic yet not terribly graphic tale of a hard luck horse of the Pampas. The author immerses us in the life of an ugly yet swift mare, called by the natives "La Bruja" (the witch) for her willingness to fight against any man trying to catch and tame her. I loved reading about her indomitable spirit as a pre-teen, and again as an adult. I would have given this book a higher rating but for a less than satisfactory ending. Still recommended.

>219 fuzzi: Ours is still going strong; I should post some pics when I get more time. How's your pond project coming? I know you had wanted to put one in.

>222 CassieBash: thanks for asking. As the weather here is hot and humid well into September, we'll probably not do anything physical until October...but that gives me time to think, and plan!

I've been slack with my Bible reading, but have recently read four more books of the New Testament.


#91 1 Timothy (King James Bible)
#92 2 Timothy (King James Bible)
#93 Titus (King James Bible)
#94 Philemon (King James Bible)

The books of Timothy contain useful advice for a young man going into "the ministry", and have some verses that may be familiar even with those who have not read these books. Most of the information is practical, and applicable even today.

Titus is a short letter to a young Christian, also full of advice about running a church.

Philemon is an interesting short letter/book, addressed to a friend and concerning the friend's servant who ran away from his contract, met Paul, and accepted Christ. Paul asks Philemon to forgive the servant, and take him back but not just as a servant, but also as his new brother.

>220 fuzzi: I read this in high school, it was my first "thriller", and it really impressed me. Of course, the Cold War was still going on at that time (mid 1960s).

>225 ronincats: it holds up well, considering when it was written. Sometimes books of that era are too dated to appreciate, but not this one.

>221 fuzzi: I loved all books by Helen Griffiths in my youth. After re-reading in the last years only a few still held up.
I rather liked the ending The wild heart.

>227 FAMeulstee: thanks for sharing your impressions. I guess I felt that the ending was not logical as even though the mare was no longer fast she could have been captured and bred to produce more fast offspring

>221 fuzzi: >227 FAMeulstee: >228 fuzzi: Well I haven’t read it so I’m guessing but maybe her remaining free was the point?

>228 fuzzi: But then being captured she would never be happy

>229 humouress: Right!

#95 The Man Called Noon by Louis L'Amour (reread)

This remains one of my favorite L'Amour stories, about a man with amnesia, trying to find out who he is before those who do know his identity find him, and kill him. Not formula, good story.

#96 Now? Not Yet! by Gina Perry

Peanut and Moe are back, and on a camping trip. Peanut wants to go swimming, but Moe is too busy doing other activities. Bright and colorful pictures, and busy backgrounds make this a fun book to look at, and the story is suitable for a young child who does not understand why they have to wait!

#97 Donkey-donkey by Roger Duvoisin

This is the story of a donkey who is unhappy with his ears, and asks all the other farm animals for their opinions. There are plenty of simple pictures of other animals for a young reader to recognize, and the "just be yourself" moral is gently taught.

#98 Galloway by Louis L'Amour

Flagan and his brother Galloway Sackett plan to settle permanently near a town called Shalako. But their endeavors to start a ranch are opposed by a cattle rustling family. Good entry in the series.

#99 Pony Farm by Paul Brown

A charming book about two youngsters who live next door to a pony farm. While the book was written about seventy years ago, it's not dated at all. And the illustrations are unbelievable, simply lovely representations of our equine friends. Good read for elementary school age, and even adults who have an interest in ponies, or art.

#100 The Incredible Journey by Sheila Burnford

Last night I felt like a comfort read, so I pulled this favorite off the shelves and took a trip back to my childhood.

This story of three pets heading home across the Canadian wilderness is an engaging tale for all ages. It works well as an adult read: I appreciated more of the descriptive passages that I'd not noticed with previous readings. Never boring or unbelievable, this story grabs the heart as well as any book I've read.

#101 Prince Valiant, Vol. 8: 1951-1952 by Hal Foster

Prince Valiant meets with more adventures and avoids sudden death miraculously in this installment of the classic comics. I can't praise the artist enough for his wonderful detailed illustrations that capture his characters' emotions with minimal strokes of the pen. As always, recommended.

#102 Dead Man's Ransom by Ellis Peters

Adequate entry in this entertaining series, and I didn't guess the culprit before it was revealed.

>238 fuzzi: I started a re-read of that series a couple years ago but didn't get very far. At least I know where I am in the re-read. I really couldn't remember which ones I'd read and which I hadn't.

>239 thornton37814: I'm reading them for the first time, but rehoming as I go. If I want a reread in the future they are fairly easy to obtain.

#103 Ride a Dark Horse by Lynn Hall

Predictable mystery story for the younger horsey set.

#104 The Beasts of Bethlehem by X J Kennedy

I began reading this book with high hopes, but after a few pages I became confused as to the _target audience. While I wasn't expecting a Disney-type of fluff, I was a little surprised to see some things that were less appropriate for children, such as a predator talking about his previous meals/victims. It just ... seemed ... wrong. Nice illustrations, though.

#105 Hiboy: Young Devil Horse by Justin F Denzel

Nice little story about an adolescent girl's determination to gentle and train a young racehorse, despite his refusal to submit to other horsemen on the farm. Wonderful illustrations, too.

#106 Fear is the Key by Alistair MacLean

Nice twisty tale of a sadistic killer hired to recover underwater treasure...but don't assume anything. This one did surprise me and had me guessing to the end.

#107 Hebrews (King James Bible)

Hebrews is always a challenging read for me, there's so much there, and in a format that requires strict attention. Most of the book compares the old with the new, such as the frequent sacrifices necessary to cover sins versus the one-time sacrifice of Jesus Christ. There's quite a lot about faith, too. This is a book that should be read more than once, preferably studied.

>245 fuzzi: I always love Hebrews because of its "Jewishness." I really enjoy our pastor because he can bring out the Jewishness in other places throughout the Bible too.

#108 Fall of a Cosmonaut by Stuart Kaminsky

Enjoyable entry in the series, with yet more insight into the characters we've come to know. Oh, and there's also three murders, at least, that need solving. Well done.

What a reading slump...


#109 Treasure Mountain by Louis L'Amour (reread)

Sackett brothers Tell and Orrin head to New Orleans to follow the last trail of their missing father. Clues lead them back to New Mexico, and possibly an answer to a twenty-year mystery. Standard but enjoyable.

#110 Georgia ABC's by Chris Jespersen and Josie Toney

Nice idea, but an editor limiting two towns per alphabet letter might have helped make this a more enjoyable read. The illustrations were primitive, more like a grade-school child's rendering. Just okay.

>249 fuzzi: Maybe I'm glad I didn't win that one.

>249 fuzzi: hahaha!

I passed it on to a coworker who is from Georgia and is going to read it to her grandson.

#111 Roadmarks by Roger Zelazny

Pure Zelazny: a story that keeps you guessing until the end. I found myself turning back a chapter or two several times during my read to clarify, and even started reading it again once I'd finished. Definitely recommended for fans of this author, and for those who want something that challenges the reader.

Reread x ? I love this book!

Previous review below:


#112 Dragonsong by Anne McCaffrey

I really enjoyed the Harper Hall books better than any other of McCaffrey's works. Some might say that the Harper Hall series is more juvenile, but I found the story line fun to read, and I liked the characters more than any other 'Pern' series.

>253 fuzzi: Agreed. I love most of the Pern books, but after Anne died and her series was picked up by her son, I didn't care for them much. Something about the writing style, I think. The Harper Hall books and Moreta are my favorites, though "Moreta" always makes me cry, no matter how often I read it. (Just like Charlotte's Web, lol!)

>252 fuzzi: So great to see a Zelazny book featured, fuzzi. I enjoyed that one, too. I ate up everything he wrote when I was young, and it's probably time to start revisiting ones like Roadmarks.

>254 CassieBash: I started to lose interest with the Pern books after Dragonsdawn and The Renegades of Pern, stopped reading after All the Weyrs of Pern, the series just seemed to have lost something.

Have you read The People of Pern?

>255 jnwelch: I'm still reading Zelazny books as I can find them, they're scarce! Ebay has been a good source.

>256 fuzzi: As I recall that's about where I stopped, too. I think it started going too far to science fiction and away from the fantasy elements, like the emphasis switched away from the dragons and more to the tech. I haven't read "The People of Pern", though I do own a copy of The Dragonlover's Guide to Pern and I can tell you that the bubbly pie recipe is wonderful with wild black raspberries.

>257 CassieBash: I found my copy of The People of Pern online, in very good used condition. I'll keep an eye out for that other guide.

#113 Ride the Dark Trail by Louis L'Amour

Logan Sackett has nothing but his guns, unwavering determination, and a name for being tough. When he comes upon a distant relative being hounded off her own land he does what he's good at: pushing back with no regard for the odds.

I admit it, I like the main character, a lot, and it's the primary reason I love this entry in the Sackett series.

(original review from 2015, reread 2019)


#114 Long Ride Home by Louis L'Amour

This book consists of a good group of short stories, written by the master of the Western genre, Louis L'Amour. Recommended, and worthy of a re-read.

#115 Sunday Silence: Racing's Hard Luck Hero by Ray Paulick

A well-written work about an overlooked and underappreciated race horse that not only won the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes but was also Horse of the Year in 1989. The author provides lots of information about the people involved, but not overwhelmingly so. I'm keeping this one.

Reread #?


#116 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.

#117 The Tale of the Good Cat Jupie by Neely McCoy

An tale of a cat who lives by himself in a tiny red house, until one day he finds a roommate. It's a bit slow by today's standards, old fashioned, but I did enjoy it. Note: skip the preface.

>263 fuzzi: I don't recall ever reading that one. I googled and discovered it on HathiTrust's full view so I read it!

>264 thornton37814: great! Did you like it?

There are two sequels, which I have waiting on the shelf.

#118 A Dog Year: Twelve Months, Four Dogs, and Me by Jon Katz

This is a reflection of the author's life with a new "rescue" dog, over the course of a year. Devon is a neurotic Border collie that Jon is determined to help transition from obedience dropout to a loving family companion. The author lays out his thoughts and actions, whether seen as right or wrong, and so shares with his audience how the relationship between him and Devon progresses. I have read other books by this author, and rank this near the top of his works.

How funny! I'm actually reading Sunday Silence right now too. I'm enjoying it because he's one of my all-time favorite racehorses :)

>267 DFED: super!

His offspring are burning up the racetracks in Japan.

>265 fuzzi: I see you dropped by and read my review!

>263 fuzzi: Glad to see you got around to it. I still have to read Jupie and the Wise Old Owl, and we still need to track down a copy of Jupie Follows His Tale.

>270 harrygbutler: I found a copy of Jupie Follows His Tale on Ebay, not expensive.

There isn't one there now, but put in a search and wait.

Bookfinder has about three copies but they're more than $30 each. I got mine for $9.

They are indeed!

Great reading and great numbers, fuzzi!

I'll keep an eye out for A Dog Year: Twelve Months, Four Dogs, and Me. It's been a year since I lost my old girl and it's time to start seriously thinking about a new canine in my life.

#119 The Dogs of Bedlam Farm: An Adventure with Sixteen Sheep, Three Dogs, Two Donkeys, and Me by Jon Katz

A sequel to the author's first book in a series about his life and dogs, this time detailing his first winter on a rundown farm in Vermont. Katz also adds his personal thoughts and philosophies to the narrative without slowing down the pace.

>273 streamsong: Katz' books should be fairly easy to find. He loves his dogs, and other animals, but he's also realistic about doing what's best for his charges. And I like how he reveals how his personal growth is due to his interactions with his dogs.

>260 fuzzi: Nice to see that one again! L'Amour is always readable isn't he?

Have a great weekend.

>276 PaulCranswick: yep! L'Amour is my top choice for reread/comfort reads.

Hope you had a nice weekend.

>273 streamsong:, >275 fuzzi: If you like Katz, you might also be interested in his blog (bedlamfarm.com) I enjoy it and the photos he posts there.

>278 markon: thanks! I discovered it recently. I love his photos, too.

I've read several of Katz' books before this marathon starting with The Second-Chance Dog, which I saw at the library on the new books shelf back in 2013.

Happy Thanksgiving!

>280 quondame: thank you, love your picture.

#120 Dog Days: Dispatches From Bedlam Farm by Jon Katz

Good entry into the Bedlam Farm series, though more of a journal than a series of consecutive events.

#121 Ranger's Trail by Elmer Kelton

Another good installment in this series. The writing is engaging, and the plot isn't predictable. I love the characters, too, especially impulsive Andy and loquacious Len Tanner. On to the next!

#122 The First Dog by Adam Cassell

Story of early man and how a wolf became the first dog. I wasn't impressed, the plot has been done previously and much better by Jim Kjelgaard in Fire-Hunter.

>275 fuzzi: >278 markon: Thanks for the addy for bedlamfarm.com I think I'll have to visit it regularly!

I've also requested A Dog Year: Twelve Months, Four Dogs, and Me from the interlibrary loan.

>285 streamsong: yippee! I hope you enjoy it.

Rose in a Storm arrived today...

#123 James (King James Bible)

The book of James is addressed to "the twelve (Jewish) tribes scattered abroad", and is possibly intended for those living in the end times (future). Some doctrine found elsewhere in the NT appears to be contradicted in James, so rightly dividing is imperative when reading this book.

#124 First Peter (King James Bible)

This first epistle by the apostle Peter goes into trials and temptations of any follower of Christ, and offers encouragement. He also reiterates the best ways for all Christians to live in peace with each other.

I was still sort of hoping for a second thread in 2019, Fuzzi - What do yer think?

Have a lovely weekend.

>289 PaulCranswick: hey! By the time I realized how long this thread had gotten, I felt it was silly to start another.

Three weeks til 2020...hard to believe.

#125 Lonely on the Mountain by Louis L'Amour

When one Sackett is in trouble, they all come "a running", that's the family tradition. So when Logan gets a message to his cousins that he needs cattle in a mining camp, they assemble a herd and head into Canada, towards British Columbia. But someone doesn't want them to succeed.

It's a good story, and about my favorite Sackett, William Tell. Sorry it's the last in the series.

#126 Just For You by Mercer Mayer

An adorable and funny look at how a youngster wants to help...with usually disastrous results. A favorite of my children, and now hopefully of my grandchildren!

---

#127 The New Baby by Mercer Mayer

A humorous look at becoming a big brother to a noisy, smelly baby. The illustrations are laugh-inducing, and the words describe the situation perfectly.

#128 Riding For the Brand by Louis L'Amour

This is one of my favorite collections of L'Amour's short stories. There's a forward by the author, and notes prior to each story. This book includes tales of cattle rustling, homesteading, man-hunting, and even one of someone taking the name and reputation of a murdered man. Good reads.

#129 Celia's House by D.E. Stevenson

This was a thoroughly enjoyable and gentle look at a family living on an old estate in Scotland in the early to mid 1900s. The characters are not shallow, but well developed, and I found myself getting involved in their trials, decisions, all the while wondering how the story would end. Recommended.

>294 fuzzi: Nice goat cart; you don't see too many of those on book covers, lol!

>295 CassieBash: and there was no mention of a goat or cart in the story... 🤣

#130 The Brave Riders by Glenn Balch

Interesting, believable, straightforward tale of Pawnee teens on their first spiritual quest. The characters are not stereotypical, and include one youth who is silently critical of the leadership. Fine for preteens as the violence is not graphic.

Have a comfy, caring, and very

Merry Christmas!

Have a great holiday, fuzzi.

>298 quondame: >299 jnwelch: thank you.

Merry Christmas back atcha!

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas from Montana!



Just For You is such a great book! My kids and I loved it and I have it packed away in a special box for sharing in the future (no grandkids yet)

>301 harrygbutler: thank you!

>302 streamsong: so beautiful, is it yours or just a snagged image?

Hope everyone is having a lovely holiday.

>303 fuzzi: It's a special ornament for sure, Lor. I have a cousin, Helen Brown, who is an artist. This is one of her creations. There are a couple more examples of her ornaments on my thread.

Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Solstice, some other tradition or none at all, this is what I wish for you!

Thank you for keeping me company in 2019.......onward to 2020.

#131 Farmer in the Sky by Robert Heinlein

Interesting story of a teen going to one of Jupiter's moons in order to homestead. There's enough science to make the narrative believable, but not so much as to bore the reader. I liked it quite a bit, and am keeping my copy for a future reread.

>305 ronincats: >306 PaulCranswick: thank you SO much!

And after that last and decent read from Heinlein, I follow with one of that author's books that I can't get past page 35 after two attempts. Out, out it goes!


The Day After Tomorrow by Robert Heinlein

Struggled twice to read this, but now I'm giving up. I won't even blame my inability to get involved in the story to how dated it is. None of the characters are likable, and the plot isn't believable. (no stars, and won't count toward 2019 books read total)

P.S. If anyone actually likes The Day After Tomorrow and wants my almost pristine paperback from 1949, just PM me.

#132 A Child's Calendar by John Updike and Trina Schart Hyman

A lovely book about the months of the year with poems that should appeal to grade school children, and illustrations that will delight older readers. The marvelous watercolor illustrations are what bumped this up to a four-star read for me.

#133 Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes by Eric Litwin and James Dean

Cute book about a cat who likes his sneakers no matter what color they are. Good read for young children, with appealing pictures.

#134 Sing a Song of Piglets by Eve Bunting and Emily Arnold McCully

Amusing book about the months of the year as told in simple rhyme and cute pig pictures. Smaller children will probably love the "poems" that are based upon Mother Goose's "Sing a Song of Sixpence".

Hope you had a merry Christmas and wishing you the best for the new year!

>314 CassieBash: thank you! May 2020 treat you better than 2019.

>311 fuzzi: Trina Schart Hyman is one of my very favorite illustrators.

>312 fuzzi: I'm partial to Pete (and most cats)!

>294 fuzzi: I just finished Celia's House--did you catch the parallels to Austen's Mansfield Park?

>318 kac522: it had been so long since I'd read Mansfield Park that I didn't note the similarity.

>319 fuzzi: I didn't catch it until the young people decide to put on a play (Midsummer Night's Dream), and all the hullabaloo around it reminded me of "Lover's Vows" in Mansfield Park. Which led me to figure out that Deb, the adopted distant cousin in Celia's House is a poor young cousin, just like Fannie Price. And Deb and Mark go on long walks with the dogs (instead of Edmund & Fannie on horses in MP). Humphrey (the father in CH) is like Sir Thomas Bertram, in that he also is away from home for months at a time in the Navy. When the play is sorted out, Deb ends up sewing the costumes, instead of participating, just like Fannie. And the 2 sisters in Celia's House, Edith and Joyce, fight over Oliver, just like Maria & Julia fight over Henry Crawford. And of course Tessa is the perfect Mary Crawford.

Anyway, once I figured it out, it was fun to finish up the story to find the parallels. Of course there are differences (no young Celia to inherit in MP), but there are many similarities. I thought Stevenson did a splendid job of taking the basics and updating it to early 20th century Scotland.

>320 kac522: now that you went into particulars, I do see similarities. It's been over eight years since I read Mansfield Park, which would explain why I didn't recall much.