Marie's 75 Book Challenge

2010 is here and I'm challenging myself to 75 books. I did the 50 Book Challenge for 2009, but think I can cram more reading in this year. (Funny that graduating let's you read more, not less!)

Please feel free to leave comments and recommendations! Thanks for stopping by!

Monthly Summaries:
January - March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December

Welcome to the group! We are glad to have you with us for 2010.

Welcome!

Thank you, thank you!

Welcome, and good luck!

1. Motherless Mothers by Hope Edelman

This may have been a sad book to begin the year with, but I had been wanting to read it ever since I read Motherless Daughters. I'm not a mother, but I lost mine and I was curious to see how women cope with it when they do have children. Very interesting and Edelman writes with such a soothing voice.

And hopefully I'm off to a good year of reading.

2. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

Fantastic!

Did you like The Book Thief? It was one of my favorites a couple years back.

I LOVED The Book Thief. I was completely caught up in it and was sad to finish it. The characters were completely lovable, even in all their shortcomings. Setting it in Nazi Germany from a little girl's perspective and Death as the narrator was genius and made it a unique reading experience.

mihess

What a wonderful way of describing this incredible book!

3. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

I seem to be on a YA kick for January and that's okay, because I'm still young right? Is there an age limit? Whatever the case may be, it's all about enjoying the literature and not the label, right? :)

#12: There are a lot of us in the group who are still 'young-at-heart' and enjoy YA books, so no worries about us carping on you about reading them!

I loved The Hunger Games when I read it last year. What did you think of it?

I actually got pretty sucked in to The Hunger Games. It's not something I'd normally read to be honest, but I've already started the sequel.

I think it's one of those books that you just need to find out how the author resolves it. She's set up a very compelling world in which brutality and murder are treated as a spectator sport. And at the center of it all, she's placed a reluctant hero who hasn't had it all that easy even before then. You can't help but root for her.

It's also something of a mind game because you never know whether someone is trustworthy or out for themselves and if they are an enemy, you can't really blame them.

I think it's a series I'll need to finish and so far the sequel, Catching Fire, is proving to be just as compelling.

I am holding off on reading Catching Fire until the third book is out (hopefully in August 2010).

You may be smart to do so. I guess I'll just have to endure the build up. :)

Hunger Games is already on my wishlist, I don't think I'd realised it was part of a .series though. Glad you're enjoying the sequel so far,

4. Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

...so, pretty much very awesome and can't wait for August.

#18: can't wait for August.

Neither can I!

5. Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

I've been trying to read through all of Jane Austen's novels, so I can finally determine which ones are my favorites. This one will be up there as I found it charming and often quite funny.

6. Rainbow Valley by Lucy Maud Montgomery

L.M. Montgomery is like the comfort food of books. I read them and feel all toasty and warm inside.

#18: Did you see that Mockingjay, the third book in the Hunger Games trilogy is now available for pre-order on Amazon?

Yes I did! I am quite thrilled at the name they chose. All during Catching Fire I kept wanting to shout, "Mockingjay means something! Hello!" And I was happy when Katniss got it.

7. My Life in France by Julia Child

Fascinating woman!

#24: How was that one? I have had it in the BlackHole for a while now.

#25: Take it out of the Black Hole! I read this book on a whim and quite enjoyed it. I knew nothing of Julia Child and nothing of French cooking before I picked it up and now I'm glad to say I do.

I'm a fan of memoirs and Julia's was well done. She led such a passionate life and her willingness to do whatever it took to become better at something is inspiring. Plus, her relationship with her husband Paul has many quiet "awww" moments. They really did do all they could to support one another's dreams.

I hope you read it and if you do, let me know what you think!

I am a fan of memoirs as well. I am heading to the library tomorrow and will see if they have the book.

8. Rilla of Ingleside by Lucy Maud Montgomery

Ah, such a good ending to the tale of Anne and her loved ones. I'm a little sad to see it go. (But of course I can always just pick her back up!)

Are you re-reading the Anne of Green Gables books or is this the first read for you? I remember thinking Rilla of Ingleside was just the most romantic book.

I've been an Anne of Green Gables fan for as long as I can remember, but for some reason I would always stop at Rainbow Valley. I guess I just didn't want the story to shift from Anne to her children. So, last year I told myself I would re-read the entire series and finally finish the last two novels.

I'm really glad I did. I quite enjoyed them both as soon as I resigned myself to Anne getting older. Her children, as well as the Manse children, were an entertaining bunch. Now I'm sad I've finished them all, so I'm going to move on to her other books. This includes the ones that inspired the TV series, Road to Avonlea. I used to eat those up as a kid and I can't wait to be introduced to Sara Stanley as a literary figure.

9. Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide by Nicholas Kristoff and Sheryl WuDunn

Startling, but very informative.

#31: I have heard a lot of good things about that book. What did you think of it, Marie?

Half the Sky is a book of statistics and stories. Personally, I would have liked to hear more stories, but the balance wasn't too far off. Perhaps also the numbers were so uncomprehendingly scary that it became hard to wrap my mind around.

I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to be aware of their world, even the horrible tragedies it contains. It most likely will depress and inspire you at the same time.

Thanks for the input!

10. The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown

11. Emma by Jane Austen

Ha ha, what an odd pairing of books to read simultaneously. (Jane Austen the better of the two.)

#35: (Jane Austen the better of the two.)

As if there was any doubt in that pairing!

12. Sweethearts by Sara Zarr

13. Story of a Girl by Sara Zarr

After reading two long books, I've found myself having an angsty teenage week with Sara Zarr's books. They were cute and quick. If I had to choose either one to recommend I would say Sweethearts was the one with a more interesting plot line.

14. The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff

A book that belonged to my mother and had been sitting on my shelf for a decade. While I didn't really get into the Tao part of it, it did make me want to pick up an A.A. Milne book.

15. Cat's Cradle by Kurt Vonnegut

16. Dear John by Nicholas Sparks

I seem to read books alongside each other that are total opposites. Cat's Cradle was almost frantic while Dear John was languid and...not particularly thought provoking. I mostly read it to see if I'd want watch the movie. (Maybe on DVD.)

#40: What did you think of Cat's Cradle, Marie? I have not yet read any Vonnegut and am wondering if it is a good place to begin.

Hi Stasia! I had not read any Vonnegut prior to Cat's Cradle either, so I will not claim to be an expert. I think though, that is can be a good place to being as I plan to read a few other's by him.

This book, and I suspect Vonnegut in general, is very clever. He's a very good writer and the voice he lends to his characters is both funny and slightly satirical.

#42: OK, thanks for the input. I will see if I can find a copy.

17. Barrel Fever: Stories and Essays by David Sedaris

18. Naked by David Sedaris

Going on a David Sedaris kick!

19. Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris

I seem to be going on week long binges of the same genre, author, etc. This week Mr. Sedaris has been cracking me up all week long. For fun I also downloaded a few of his live performances where he reads his stories to an audience.

I think this really works for Sedaris' stories because a lot of his pieces read like stand up comedy to me. Plus, he has a really interesting voice and it only enhances the experience.

Thanks for your comment on my Lady Susan review. :)

Re. Vonnegut, if you like short stories, Welcome to the Monkey House is amazing. (And a good intro to his style for anyone who hasn't read him.) My 2nd copy is almost ready to be replaced!

My favorites of his novels (I've read most, but not all) are Slapstick and Sirens of Titan, though I've gotten some raised eyebrows from other Vonnegut fans for those. I think most people would suggest Cat's Cradle or Slaughterhouse Five. In my opinion though, you can't go wrong with him whatever you choose.

20. Lady Susan by Jane Austen

Ah, Jane Austen at her most devious! I had a fun time reading this, though it was so short...oh well, I'll take any amount of Austen.

And thank you for the wonderful suggestions Shauna! I like the idea of a Vonnegut short story because, honestly, Cat's Cradle was a little overwhelming. But the writing was so zesty...so, I'd like to continue reading Vonnegut.

I can't recommend Welcome to the Monkey House enough. The stories can be dark or sweet or heartbreaking or absurd, but they're always smart and funny.

21. Dress Your Family In Corduroy And Denim by David Sedaris

It wasn't my intention to read all of Sedaris' work this year, but I can't seem to stop. Funny, yet poignant, I have become a fan.

He's addicting. I can't tell you how often I've read "The Santaland Diaries" from Holidays on Ice or "Jesus Shaves" from Me Talk Pretty One Day and they still crack me up every time. :)

Yes, both of those are good stories! (I read Holidays on Ice during the last holidays and found it to be excellent timing.) I also really like when David talks about his relationship with his boyfriend Hugh and their life in France. He just ends up in the most ridiculous situations and Hugh seems absolutely perfect for David. I'm reading When You Are Engulfed In Flames right now. Almost done!

22. Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

This book took me a long time to finish and so I felt invested in it, yet...I came away thinking, "Maybe I just wasn't the right audience for this memoir." I've never been married, divorced or rooted to a career and so Gilbert's reasons for leaving her life behind didn't particularly strike me. I felt sad for her, but I couldn't relate.

I did enjoy the majority of her journey, though her time in India dragged. I loved hearing about Italy and I found that being in Bali was my favorite part.

And now I have gypsy feet and just want to travel... :)

#52: now I have gypsy feet and just want to travel

Yeah, me too.

January

1. Motherless Mothers by Hope Edelman
2. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
3. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Favorite: It's a toss up, but I'm going to have to award it to The Book Thief. The Hunger Games was also really good, but The Book Thief was so spectacularly beautiful that I have to go with it.

Feburary

4. Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins
5. Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen
6. Rainbow Valley by Lucy Maud Montgomery
7. My Life in France by Julia Child
8. Rilla of Ingleside by Lucy Maud Montgomery
9. Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide by Nicholas Kristoff and Sheryl WuDunn

Favorite: Hard, because so many of Lucy Maud Montgomery's books are so dear to me, but I have to say that I found My Life in France very captivating and different from what I usually read.

March

10. The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown
11. Emma by Jane Austen
12. Sweethearts by Sara Zarr
13. Story of a Girl by Sara Zarr
14. The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff
15. Cat's Cradle by Kurt Vonnegut
16. Dear John by Nicholas Sparks
17. Barrel Fever: Stories and Essays by David Sedaris
18. Naked by David Sedaris
19. Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris
20. Lady Susan by Jane Austen
21. Dress Your Family In Corduroy And Denim
by David Sedaris
22. Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

Favorite: I went on a Davis Sedaris binge this month and so many of his stories overlap one another that it is hard to pick which book I liked the most. I'm going to go with Naked.

Twenty-two books in three months! I can't believe it's already April...

You had a busy March! :)

Well, it looks that way, but several of the Sedaris books were short and sweet. But I do seem to be reading more and more as the months go by... :)

Me too! I don't know how or why, but I'm glad I'm reading more as the months pass. And, I'm sure my groaning bookshelves are glad as well. Maybe one day I'll have neat, not overflowing, not-2-levels-deep shelves... sigh. Though I'm pretty sure that as long as I'm a part of this trouble-makin' website, that won't happen. Oh well!

We've got lots of books in common (Pride and Prescience will be in my "currently reading" pile in the next week or so), and it's always nice to hear that someone else does "author binges" too!

Congrats on doing so well with the 75 so far this year, and I'm looking forward to what you read next!

Thank you Laura and thank you for adding me to your 'interesting libraries'. We do seem to have a lot of books in common. :)

I am about 3/4 done with Pride and Prescience and so far so good. I would be interested to know what you think and if you'll be reading her series. I'm pretty sure I will as they are fun and satisfy my Austen cravings.

Looking forward to watching your thread!

23. When You are Engulfed in Flames by David Sedaris

Well, I think I've read everything Sedaris and now I have to wait for the next book he writes...

I really enjoyed this book, particularly his story about quitting smoking and living in Japan for three months.

Welcome to the group! I haven't read Sedaris (though I've liked him on NPR), but I read Augusten Burroughs You better not cry shortly after the holidays and thought it was hysterical.

You know, I've only tried one Augusten Burroughs book, (Running With Scissors), and haven't tried out any of his other books. For some reason I lump him in with James Fray and can't quite bring myself to believe his memoirs. It's probably unfair and I'm sure Sedaris stretches the truth too...but for some reason I'm a huge fan while Burroughs hasn't done it for me.

24. Something Borrowed by Emily Giffin

Sometimes chick lit can be really fun. It is usually light, breezy and leaves you feeling sort of warm inside if everyone ends up with the right person. This book is not that book. I spent the majority of the time feeling annoyed by the type cast characters and their fight over one man. I guess it could have been okay, except the guy wasn't even worth it. And to make things worse, the ending did not make me feel warm inside nor did I think the right people ended up with the right people. Not recommended.

#62: I think I will pass on that one. I hope your next read is better for you, Marie.

I had a similar reaction to Something Borrowed. It really bothered me that everyone was doing horrible things to each other, and the only reason we had to care about the heroine and think she was a decent person was because... what she was doing to her best friend was "less horrible" than what her best friend was doing to her. Uh... WHAT?!?!? In the end, I just hated everyone. Heh.

25. Pride and Prescience: Or, A Truth Universally Acknowledged by Carrie Bebris

This was a really cute book and an interesting spin on what happens to Elizabeth and Darcy after their wedding. The ending perhaps was a little too mystical for my usual taste, but the author was unapologetic about it and made it work. I look forward to reading the rest of Bebris' series.

26. The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay by Michael Chabon

Beautiful. This is my first Michael Chabon book and I know I will have to read more if this book is any indication of his writing.

#66: That one is probably my favorite of his, but I also liked Summerland - young adult; Gentlemen of the Road - kind of an old-time adventure; and The Final Solution - a short detective novel. Many people like his The Yiddish Policemen's Union which is an alternate history mystery. That should get you started, Marie!

Thank you! All will be added to my TBR pile - as if it weren't large enough! :)

#68: There is no such thing as having too many books (just not enough storage space!)

27. The Brontes Went to Woolworths by Rachel Ferguson

I received this from LT's Early Reviewers group and I'm really glad that I did. Unusual, but interesting and with fun language. The characters interchanged the word 'rum' for the expression, "That's crazy!" How rum!

>70 RosyLibrarian:: I read your review and then a few others and I'm intrigued. It sounds like an odd, fun little book. Onto the BookMooch list it goes!

#70: I enjoyed that one as well. I had forgotten about the 'rum' expression though.

Just caught up with your thread. You've been reading a lot of good books. Even though they don't go together at all, I'm a big Sedaris and Austen fan as well. There were several parts of Running With Scissors that are really disturbing. Sedaris had weird parents but they totally loved him. Wasn't the episode with his teacher and his mother discussing David's problem in licking everything just hilarious? No book has made me laugh more than Naked. Wasn't nearly as fond of When You're Engulfed in Flames though. Finally, I really liked The Yiddish Policeman's Union, though maybe not as much as The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay.

73: I love Sedaris' mother and was really sad when she passed away, though he did a good job of portraying how it happened. You can tell he's sad, but his narrative never lost that dry sense of humor he has and I think it was something he shared with his mother. When I think of her, I think, "Oh, Lou!"

I'm actually going to be seeing him on the first of May up in Scottsdale. I am beyond excited that he is going on tour. I think I will have him sign Naked as that is my favorite book of his as well.

It also looks like I need to get a Michael Chabon wishlist in order! :)

You know, if you like listening to Sedaris, you might also like Moth podcasts. They're true stories up to fifteen minutes long that are told to a live audience without notes. Many of the most popular stories are told by writers, but there are lots of every-day people who just have a good story to tell. One of my favorites is by Elna Baker: The Funny One. The very first one I heard is by Edward Gavagan, link here:

>74 RosyLibrarian:: Ooooh - I'm jealous! He's great in person and he doesn't seem to be coming to S.F. this time around. Hearing him read his own stories is even better than reading them yourself. (His "Six to Eight Black Men" will bring tears to my eyes from laughing every time.) Your post made me realize he must have a new book coming out though! V. excited, and the title, Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk, brings me to

>75 bonniebooks:: because he did an hysterical bizarre piece on This American Life years ago called "So a Chipmunk and a Squirrel Walk Into a Bar". You can download This American Life episodes (of which he's done many). So great for car trips. I've never heard of Moth podcasts but they sound similar and like something I'd really enjoy! Thanks Bonnie.

Voting that you add Wonder Boys to your Chabon wishlist.

I have a love for The Mysteries of Pittsburgh because I live here and know some of the real people the characters spring from, but it is very definitely his first novel so that one's recommendation is not as certain as Wonder Boys.

75: Thanks for the recommendation Bonnie! I spend about two hours commuting every day and I am always looking for something to listen to.

76: I had no idea he was coming out with a new book, though I thought he might be since he is touring so extensively. (And the Fall locations haven't come out yet, so maybe he'll swing by San Fran) Thank you so much for the link! Wishlisted! And yay, more podcasts! You guys are saving my soul, honestly. Commuting is the worst thing ever.

77. Consider it wishlisted! Thank you!

28. A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier by Ishmael Beah

Sad, but gripping. It got me very interested in Sierra Leone's civil war.

#79: I have had that one in the BlackHole for a while now. I need to get to it soon.

29. Time Among the Dead by Thomas Rayfiel

I received this from LibraryThing's Early Reviewers, but alas, it wasn't what I hoped it to be.

#81: Too bad about that one, Marie. I hope you enjoy your next read more.

30. The Tiger in the Well by Philip Pullman

Kind of SPOILER-y if you haven't read the second book!

I'm sorry I put so much time in between the second book to this series and this one. It took me awhile to get into it again and I'd have to quickly refer back to something, but once I got going, I loved this book. I think it was the best one of them all, even though half of the characters aren't in it (Jim on a trip, and poor Fred...)

I have to say though, that this book really stressed me out. I felt so miserable at Sally's situation that every time something went wrong again, I almost had to put it down. But that has to be a sign of a good book if you feel that strongly with a character! Philip Pullman does amazing things.

#83: that has to be a sign of a good book if you feel that strongly with a character

I agree. Sometimes a character draws you into a book far more than the actual writing.

found you and have now starred your thread.

31. Julie & Julia: 365 Days, 524 Recipes, 1 Tiny Apartment Kitchen by Julie Powell

To be clear, I read My Life in France first, watched Julie and Julia second and then finally picked up Julie Powell's book. Of the three closely connected stories, I really loved reading about Julia Child's life and I thought the movie was well done. I read a lot of movie reviews saying they didn't like the Julie Powell parts, but I thought it struck up a nice balance.

And now having rounded out my Julia Child experience, I am glad I finished it out with this book because I'm not sure I would have gone any further. I think you need to love and know Julia Child first before you embark on Julie Powell's year long journey of cooking.

On its own, this book is good, but not great. She has a very strong voice and sometimes it made things funny and other times it made you cringe. Sometimes I wanted to say, "Good lord woman, pull it together!" I am really glad for her success though, and ultimately it was an enjoyable experience.

#86: I want to read My Life in France and some time I will get around to it. I already own Julie and Julia, but have no desire to watch the film version of it. I will keep your advice in mind and read Child's book first.

32. Don't Know Much About World Myths by Kenneth C. Davis

I've kind of been slacking this week with my reading, but I did listen to this audio book while pushing paper at work. It was actually very satisfying to listen to mythology from around the globe. So many interesting facts are laced within myths. My favorites were from Greece and Africa.

Still reading Howl's Moving Castle and almost done! So far, very very cute.

#88: I will have to look for that one. While fairly familiar with Greek and Roman mythology, that is about as far as it goes. Thanks for the recommendation, Marie.

89: If you are already familiar with mythology, then you might want to check out Don't Know Much About Mythology by the same author. While I haven't read it, I get the feeling that it is more advanced then the book I just finished. In general, the 'Don't Know Much About' series seems to cover a broad range of topics and I'm glad to have stumbled across them. It makes me want to add more non-fiction to my reading list. :)

#90: My local library has Don't Know Much About Mythology, but not the other book. I actually thought they were one and the same.

91: I did too until I clicked on the one review for Don't Know Much About World Myths: http://www.intergalacticmedicineshow.com/cgi-bin/mag.cgi?do=columns&vol=adam...

And the reviewer is pretty much on the money. The book I listened to was really just a primer, but it did do the trick of making me want to know more.

#92: I am glad you cleared that up, although I really did not have any choice about it since my library only has the one book.

I've never bothered to go ahead with the third Sally book, after the end of the second one... the end of the second one upset me so much (ie. made me very angry) that I just couldn't pick up the next one. But, it's been a few years since then, so maybe I should give it a go now that I'm not so emotionally riled up! You certainly make it sound worthwhile :)

94: I know exactly what you mean about the second Sally book. I think it is safe to say that Philip Pullman has no qualms when it comes to killing off his main characters - the same happened in the His Dark Materials series.

But, I would recommend you finish up the Sally series. It really was fantastic and you get to see a side of Sally that didn't really come across in the first two books. I hope you'll like it! :)

April

23. When You are Engulfed in Flames by David Sedaris
24. Something Borrowed by Emily Giffin
25. Pride and Prescience: Or, A Truth Universally Acknowledged by Carrie Bebris
26. The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay by Michael Chabon
27. The Brontes Went to Woolworths by Rachel Ferguson
28. A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier by Ishmael Beah
29. Time Among the Dead by Thomas Rayfiel
30. The Tiger in the Well by Philip Pullman
31. Julie & Julia: 365 Days, 524 Recipes, 1 Tiny Apartment Kitchen by Julie Powell
32. Don't Know Much About World Myths by Kenneth C. Davis

Favorite: Hmmmm. It wasn't a bad month of reading, but nothing really stood out brilliantly. I want to choose David Sedaris again, but I know I'm only saying that because I met him last night and he signed my copy of Naked. He also read from his upcoming book and let me tell you, it is gonna be good. But aside from my crush on Sedaris, I would have to say that Chabon's book was probably my favorite read. It was different from a lot of things I tend to choose, but it ended up being a very good book.

It's a chilly, blustery day in Tucson so I am going to finish cleaning the apartment and then get crackin' on all the books I've started and haven't yet finished. Hope everyone is having a good weekend!

33. Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones

I read this as a recommendation from a friend. Actually, we were at Barnes and Nobles and she just took it off the bookshelf and added it to my pile. "Buy this." she said. And I'm glad I did. It's a very cute little story and now I'm going to have to rent the movie.

>>33 RosyLibrarian:: Loved the movie. Didn't realize it was a book. Hm ...

#97: I really enjoyed the book too, Marie. I am glad you did as well.

34. Assassination Vacation by Sarah Vowell

I have a new favorite author and her name is Sarah Vowell. I can't believe I had never heard of her before I was suggested this book. She's known for lending her voice as Violet in 'The Incredibles', and her appearances on NPR, but it's her books that are truly amazing.

Hilarious and smart, this book is about Vowell's travels around the eastern US, as she tells us about our assassinated presidents and their killers. It isn't a subject I had given much thought, but I was riveted. Full of interesting facts and made fascinating by Vowell's wry sense of humor, this book is a must read for anyone who loves their history.

#35>
10. The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown

11. Emma by Jane Austen

Ha ha, what an odd pairing of books to read simultaneously. (Jane Austen the better of the two.)
_________________________________

In the running for "Understatement of the Year Award," Literature Division.

Great reading list!

>97 RosyLibrarian:: AND you'll have to read the two sequels!

102: I saw that there were sequels, but a lot of reviews didn't seem to love them, but should I give it a go?

----

On another note, I just reviewed Tell Me Honey...2000 Questions for Couples
by Vikram Chandiramani as part of the Member Giveaway Program - my first win!

I am choosing not to include it for my 75 Book Challenge, because honestly it wasn't really a book, but rather a long, long list of questions. I wrote a review here.

>100 RosyLibrarian:: Sarah Vowell! Isn't it great when you discover an author you really like and they already have a bunch of books out?
I feel like I should have thought to recommend her to you when you were reading all the Sedaris. Besides both writing funny essays, they're totally connected in my brain because of "This American Life".

This site, I swear. I was just inspired by another thread to walk down the street to the used book store to see what Nabokov they have, and now I want to immediately read the two unread Sarah Vowells I have sitting here. Never mind that I have four other books going already ...

104: After I read up on her, I couldn't believe I had never even heard of her! You aren't hiding another genius from me, are you? :)

And yes, the double edged sword that is LT. Sometimes I'll finish all my books around the same time and sort of panic because now I actually have to choose from my TBR stack and how does one do that? It's a good kind of problem though. (And you should read the Sarah Vowell books you have sitting there, mwaha!)

#104: Never mind that I have four other books going already

I know exactly how that feels!

35. I Am the Messenger by Markus Zusak

I already know what my favorite book of May will be and it is I Am the Messenger. For fans of The Book Thief, you simply must check out this book. I have become quite a fan of Zusak's writing and imagination.

This book takes place in Zusak's native Australia and follows nineteen year old Ed, a cab driver. The book starts off with a bang as Ed finds himself in the middle of a bank robbery and after proving himself the hero of the event, Ed begins getting playing cards in the mail. Each card gives him a list of people he must do something for. The people Ed meets are diverse, but they all need something and it was a pleasure to follow Ed's journey.

Highly recommended!

#107: I Am the Messenger was one of my favorites a couple of years back. I am glad you enjoyed it, Marie!

>103 RosyLibrarian:: I've only read Castle in the Air and not House of Many Ways, but I really really liked Castle in the Air. It's not a direct sequel, more a companion story with familiar faces popping up here and there, but I thought it worked and it was a lot of fun. I've heard the third one is fun too... it's sitting on the coffee table right now, trying to entice me into picking it up... :)

I loved both The Book Thief and I am The Messenger. If you haven't read The Reader. I highly recommend it!

36. Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace . . . One School at a Time by Greg Mortenson

While this book is scattered with uplifting moments, it's a very real and stark look into the Middle East's problem of poverty and lack of education. It also scolds the US's response to these problems. Greg Mortenson, the man this book follows, is the ultimate story of what just one person can do to change not only his own destiny, but that of thousands of people. This book is not an easy read - and many point fingers to the actual writing of the author - but I think it is an important one.

I haven't read this yet.
Thanks for your description.

#111: Are you planning on reading Stones into Schools, Marie? I think it is the better of the books.

Stasia, I'm glad to hear that actually, because I was wondering if I should add it to the TBR pile. I liked Three Cups of Tea enough to want to continue to see how Greg and the organization has progressed. I've read that Stones Into Schools is actually written this time by Greg himself?

#114: Yes, there is no co-author this time around.

Oh I'm glad I found your thread (thx for the link).

>35 RosyLibrarian: LOL (Austen better than Brown) LOL

Hmmm... somehow missed Lady Susan, although now that I'm writing I think I realized this last year as well while reading threads here on LT.

>62 RosyLibrarian: Sometimes chick lit can be really fun. It is usually light, breezy and leaves you feeling sort of warm inside if everyone ends up with the right person. This book is not that book. GF you crack me up!!

I have no idea who Sedaris is (okay except, due to this thread, that he's a comic, and actually is comical, who writes), so I have no doubt, no doubt, that the idea which popped into my head doesn't truly 'follow.' Have you read Grisham's Skipping Christmas. I was dubious, to say the least, when I saw he'd written comedy. However, I found it to be absolutely hysterical. I also found it didn't work well as a read aloud. More's the pity!

I'll be back!

37. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

I think I'm the last person on Earth to get to this series, but here I am! I decided to give it a try when my boyfriend read the entire series in a week and the guy never reads anything so... All in all, it was cute. I think it's written for a younger age demographic and parts were a little predictable, but I get the appeal. The main characters were likable and I'll probably finish the series myself.

#117: I think the books improve from the first one on, Marie, so I hope you continue to enjoy them.

38. Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen

Jane Austen at her funniest! I loved the dialog in this one and the ending was just what I wanted it to be, even if it tied up rather quickly.

Going on vacation for the rest of the week so I hope to get some reading in on my drive up to the Grand Canyon! Have a great week everyone!

Have a wonderful trip to the Canyon, Marie!

I really like listening to Sarah Vowell on NPR. She has that funny, whiny little girl voice that's so recognizable, as is Sedaris's. As soon as I hear either voice, I know I'm going to hear a good story. Enjoying your comments about the books you're reading.

39. Over the Edge: Death in Grand Canyon by Michael P. Ghiglieri

I picked this book up in the gift shop at the Grand Canyon, and call me morbid, but I really enjoyed it. I'm just glad I read it AFTER I had left! Divided into sections on how people have ultimately met their demise at the Grand Canyon, this book is packed with interesting, historical and often grisly stories. The section on people accidentally falling over the edge was probably the worst for me, as often times their family members were standing right there. (I also have a slight fear of heights - probably made worse by this book!)

This book honestly isn't for the faint of heart, and a few times I had to turn the page because it was so sad, but the book stressed something very important, and that is that nature isn't Disneyland. You have to be smart and prepared. A lot of the deaths in the book could have been prevented if people had alerted someone to their plans, taken plenty of water and known their limits.

Sad, interesting, and a little macabre, but recommended.

#122: I flew over the Grand Canyon in a helicopter when I was 16 or so, and was just amazed at the majesty of the place. I will see if I can track down a copy of the book. Thanks for the recommendation, Marie - and I hope you enjoyed your trip!

Wow, that's an interesting topic for a book! I knew people had died hiking in the canyon but didn't realize multiple people had fallen over the edge. How terrifying.

123: Thanks, I really did enjoy myself! I would have loved to go up in a helicopter - how cool that you got to do that!

124: I didn't either, but a lot have gone over the edge - mostly trying to take pictures! It really made me think twice about getting close to the edge just for a snap shot. It listed a lot of other bizarre things like lightning striking a handful of people and of course, suicide. It said the year that 'Bonnie and Clyde' came out the amount of people driving their cars over the edge increased. Scary!

40. The Partly Cloudy Patriot by Sarah Vowell

"American history is a quagmire, and the more one knows, the quaggier the mire gets."

I love Sarah Vowell! She may be one of those authors that can do no wrong in my mind, even though others have said this is one her least cohesive books. I can see what they mean, as her topics seemingly shift around in this one, but dammit, she's funny and so I enjoyed this. :)

I also read and reviewed Were You Raised by Wolves?: And Seven Other Crucial Questions to Ask the One You Just Might Marry by Toben Heim today, but am choosing not to count it because honestly it read more like some sort of hand out rather than a book. If I hadn't received it through Early Reviewers I probably would have just tossed it out. I need to be pickier about what I try to win through them as I haven't had much luck recently.

"... the quaggier the mire gets"
LOVE Sarah Vowell. :)

"Over the Edge ..." sounds fascinating. I'll probably have to visit the Grand Canyon before I'll get a copy, but I'm putting it on my wishlist anyway.

#126: I still have not read anything by Sarah Vowell. One of these years . . .

May

33. Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones
34. Assassination Vacation by Sarah Vowell
35. I Am the Messenger by Markus Zusak
36. Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace . . . One School at a Time by Greg Mortenson
37. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
38. Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen
39. Over the Edge: Death in Grand Canyon by Michael P. Ghiglieri
40. The Partly Cloudy Patriot by Sarah Vowell

Favorite: I read some great books this month! After I finished I Am the Messenger, I swore it would be my favorite and it was maybe the most heartwarming...but man, tough to say! Mortenson's was important, and the Grand Canyon book was very interesting and of course I love Sarah Vowell, but Howl's Castle was so cute! Oh, I give up. I hope June is equally as thrilling!

I hope so too!

41. The Wordy Shipmates by Sarah Vowell

While I have been enjoying Vowell's work, this may be my least favorite to date. The middle got quite long and only towards the end - when she started talking about Anne Hutchinson - did I start to get interested again. It may be the subject matter as there is only so much humor you can inject into the Puritans. If you haven't tried Vowell yet, don't start here.

I brought home Vowell's Assassination Vacation from the library the other day and am hoping I like it. Unfortunately, it is the only one of Vowell's books my local library has.

I am sure you will love it! It's probably my favorite so far. Hope you enjoy!

I thought The Wordy Shipmates was her least successful work. I adored Assassination Vacation and second the recommendation to start there.

42. My Abandonment by Peter Rock

I picked this book up because the majority of it takes place in and around Portland, Oregon and I lived there right after high school. Based on a true story, the book follows a war veteran father and his daughter as they live outside of society and inside of a park. It's hard to give further details then that because so much happens so fast and I don't want to give away spoilers. This book is well written and you feel truly inside the head of the 13 year old daughter who loves her father, but is also curious about what normal is. The ending is a shock and at the same time I saw it coming and just hoped that it wasn't going to turn out like it did. Startling, but highly recommended.

Darn! The first Sarah Vowell I bought was The Wordy Shipmates. In spite of how much I like her on NPR, and however much I agree on her politics, I got tired of it and never finished it.

It is funny how you can like everything about an author and still not quite connect with a book of theirs. I suspect the subject of The Wordy Shipmates had a lot to do with my feeling 'meh' about it.

43. The Complete Maus: A Survivor's Tale by Art Spiegelman

This graphic novel lifted me out of a reading slump and I'm glad to have been recommended it. This book is absolutely amazing. The artist and writer did a fantastic job of capturing the relationship of his family today, as well as telling the story of his Jewish family's tragedies throughout World War II.

Reading about the Holocaust always makes you grateful for you have today and this book is no exception, but this book also has the unique perspective of placing these war victims in today's culture. The author's father deals with marital and health problems in the present day, and as bleak as this sounds, it really makes you think about the amount of suffering humans will always have to endure.

Highly, highly recommended. Thank you Shauna for bringing this book to my attention.

Wow, that was quick! V. glad you liked it. :)

I am glad you liked it too, Marie!

139: I devoured it! It's been slow at work so I spent a better part of the day pouring over it. :) I think too that it is one of those books you could go back over again and again and find little details you missed the first time - especially in regards to the artwork.

I keep seeing that book recommended in various threads but haven't added it to the list yet... so I'll do so now. I believe our library has a copy, so I'll take a look for it next time I'm there. :)

44. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

After hearing all the hype, I had to look into this series and I'm glad that I did. I need to admit that it took a while for the book to take off and finally did so half way through when the two main characters actually met. Until then the financial dialogue had me yawning. But, with good, clean and smart writing, I will continue on to the next one.

#143: I am glad you have joined in with the rest of us Larsson fans, Marie!

Thanks! I've already dived into The Girl Who Played With Fire and within 50 pages there's already been a couple of big BANGS in the plot line. I can already see how Larsson is expanding on Salander's back story, something I often thought about while reading the first book. Lovin' it!

Also on the plate is Stranger in a Strange Land, a book that sometimes has me saying, "What the grok?" But, overall, it has been enjoyable and it is a book, I think, that I'll love to review as there is so much to say about it.

#145: I am going to be re-reading at least book 2 over the summer as I prepare for reading book 3 for the first time.

45: Stranger In A Strange Land by Robert Heinlein

It's hard to explain my feelings about this book as half the time I was in awe of it and half the time I felt angry at it. Misogynistic and anti-homosexual? You betcha. Chalk full of interesting ideas about religion and the human condition? Very much so.

At the center of this story is the man from Mars. He is a human raised in martian culture and transported to Earth to learn our ways. He is pitched into the epicenter of politics, power and greed, but is helped along by an interesting cast of characters - the most notable a doctor/lawyer combination named Jubal, who tries to teach him truth.

Religion is a huge aspect of this book, especially as the plot line continues. At times it weighs almost too heavily on the reader. Never-the-less, it's a book to be carefully read, as it is brimming with food for thought.

Edited for spelling.

I read Stranger at the best of all possible times--in the late 60s as a teenager. And I grokked it completely. Not sure it has stood the test of time and am afraid to reread it now after reading comments from most who are reading it for the first time now.

148: What a cool time to have read Heinlein! Reading back over my thoughts on it, I should mention that there were things I really enjoyed about this book. The dialogue had a peppiness to it that I liked, when I wasn't cringing at what was being said. :)

---

Finishing up The Girl Who Played With Fire and finding it harder and harder to put down. I'm to the point where I just want to know all the answers! Also TRYING to get through American Gods but this book has taken me forever... It's not that I hate it...it's just...I haven't connected with it. Everything is dreary and the only thing getting me through it is my determination to finish things I start. Has anyone else had as much trouble with this book as me?

#149: Has anyone else had as much trouble with this book as me?

Yes. I started to read it last year and lost interest after about 100 pages. I picked it up again last month with dramatically different expectations for a TIOLI challenge and found it kind of fun. But Zoe read it for the same challenge & found it quite a slog. You are not alone!

I keep preaching--American Gods was only so-so for me, but I absolutely adore Anansi Boys by Gaiman. So don't let the one prevent you from reading the other.

150: I'll just have to persevere! :)

151: I actually started Anansi Boys and got about three chapters into it before I realized it was meant as a "sequel", so I stopped and started American Gods. I enjoyed those first three chapters way more and will take your advice and go back to it.

46: The Girl Who Played with Fire by Stieg Larsson

I have been enjoying this series for a number of reasons. First, it is set in Sweden and having visited there in 2008, I can just feel the beauty of the setting. It's also not a place I often read about so I love reading the Swedish names and towns. Second, it's not something I usually read. I seem to rarely lean towards thriller novels, but this one is fun, smart and in your face.

So for these reasons and more, I am liking the late author's books. The second book focuses on Lisbeth's past and I really enjoyed that aspect of it. I am anxious to see how it pans out in the last book.



(A picture I took in Stockholm!)

Edited to add the picture.

>149 RosyLibrarian:: A lot of people seem to have that reaction to American Gods. There was just someone in the 'Take It or Leave It' group who was talking about how long it took her to slog through it and many people agreed. I can see how it might be considered dense, but I really liked it. Glad to hear the thumbs ups on Anansi Boys since I recently found a copy.

Love your photo! I really want to read these Steig Larsson books now. I had no interest when Dragon Tattoo first blew up and I was working in a bookstore, but all the LT chatter intrigued me. I'm going to need to get off my *** and trek over to the library though, b/c I've never yet seen one available used.

154: 'Slog' is such an appropriate word for that book.

And thanks! Stockholm really is gorgeous, though I was there in the summer time and I've been told that makes a big difference. The LT chatter got to me too, but the series lives up to its name so far. I hope you'll enjoy it!

47. Water for Elephants: A Novel by Sara Gruen

Alternating between the twenty-three and ninety (or ninety-three, he couldn't remember) year old view point of Jacob, this book takes place in America's Great Depression. Orphaned, he takes a chance on joining the circus and finds himself on the craziest show I have ever read about.

Love, humor, murder and a likable protagonist, this book has a little bit of everything and makes for a great summer read. It's also being made into a film and I would be interested to see how it turns out.

POSSIBLE SPOILER!

This is a well crafted book, but the author had no qualms for adding depressing plot twists all throughout the book. I mean, really sad stuff. In fact, I was not ready to let go of some of the characters and looking back on it, did she have to get rid of them? Did it really help the story line?

48. Drink, Play, F@#k: One Man's Search for Anything Across Ireland, Las Vegas, and Thailand by Andrew Gottlieb

I laughed out loud when I read the title of this book and immediately knew I needed to check it out. I'm glad I did. For anyone who read Eat, Pray, Love and ended it feeling too "Gilberted" - this book is for you. It's quick. It's funny and it doesn't take itself too seriously, something I found overwhelming in Eat, Pray, Love. My one criticism is the ending, which felt a little too rushed, but all in all it's a cute read.

June

41. The Wordy Shipmates by Sarah Vowell
42. My Abandonment by Peter Rock
43. The Complete Maus: A Survivor's Tale by Art Spiegelman
44. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
45: Stranger In A Strange Land by Robert Heinlein
46: The Girl Who Played with Fire by Stieg Larsson
47. Water for Elephants: A Novel by Sara Gruen
48. Drink, Play, F@#k: One Man's Search for Anything Across Ireland, Las Vegas, and Thailand by Andrew Gottlieb

I probably won't finish any other books before June ends on Thursday, so here is my reading list for the month.

Favorite: Stranger in a Strange Land was probably the book I most wanted to read. I inherited my mother's copy and have always felt compelled to finish it for that reason. Maus was the most compelling. Stieg Larsson's books have been a great new series to find. I don't know why I try and pick a favorite...they all effect me in different ways and that is the beauty of reading!

Next up...finishing American Gods (finally!) and trying out some Bill Bryson. I thought I'd start with his memoir, but are there any other books any of you would recommend by him?

#158: I really like Bryson's books and do not think you can go far wrong with him. One of my personal favorites is A Walk in the Woods.

Hello, Marie! I'm trying to catch up on 75-Booker's threads, and I finally got to yours! What a treat! I really like your eclectic approach (I do that a lot) and how you (at times) focus on a particular author.

Good reading!

Karen O.

159: Thanks Stasia! I'll add that one to the wish list. I'm excited to dive into him. He's one of those authors I've heard a lot about and never followed through on.

161: Hi Karen! Thanks for stopping by. I'm glad you take the eclectic approach too. I think if you read what you're in the mood for, you'll just enjoy it more - and sometimes that means spending an entire month on one author. :D

158: Bryson is one of my favorite authors. I loved The Lost Continent (about traveling around mid-and-small-town America) and Neither Here Nor There (about retracing his post-college backpack trip around Europe) more than I loved A Walk in the Woods, though I have yet to read a book of his that I didn't love. I think I loved TLC and NHNT more because I've been to a lot of the places he mentioned and I could relate more.

Bill Bryson is always good for a belly laugh, so beware if you read these books in public! You may get crazy looks from strangers.

The only book of Bryson's that I recommend you not start with is A Short History of Nearly Everything.

Thanks Laura and Stasia! That was exactly the kind of advise I was looking for. I added TLC and NHNT to the wishlist and both of them sound wonderful. I can relate to small towns having been brought up in one, (Elko, Nevada, anyone?) and I did some college backpacking through Europe too. He sounds right up my alley. Thanks again!

I hope you enjoy your journey through Bryson's books, Marie!

The Mother Tongue is another one of Bryson's books that, like A Short History of Nearly Everything, is not a travel/memoir book. It's about the history of English. It's a fun read, but people with more knowledge of linguistics than I have questioned the accuracy of some of his information.

I've read all of Bill Bryson's travel narratives and agree you can't go wrong with any of them. In a Sunburned Country was my favorite. They're all interesting and funny and well-written, but I just found his info and stories about Australia especially fascinating.

Oh - I was glad to read your review of Water for Elephants. It's one of those I've had in the back of my mind as something I 'should' read. I know a lot of people who liked it, and I see it used quite a lot, but I had somehow formed the impression that it might be somewhat treacley. It sounds from your review like that's not at all the case.

Also liked your review of Drink, Play,F@#k. Adding both to my list.

167: Well written books make me interested in just about anything so I may have to add that to the list too. I know nothing of linguistics either so fun works for me! Thanks!

168/9: Oh man, maybe I should have asked which books not to read! I haven't read very many stories set in Australia so that could be interesting. I would love to visit some day...

As for WFE, I picked it because it had been getting some good reviews. I have to admit that I looked up what 'treacly' meant - LOL! But if it's what I think it means, then maybe parts of it are...The older version of the main character has some sentimental moments, but that makes sense from that perspective. His younger self is very raw and some very intense things happen. It made for a good balance actually.

DPF is a quick, poking-fun kind of read and I hope you'll enjoy it!

49: American Gods: A Novel by Neil Gaiman

There are so many things to say about this book, but the only word that comes to mind after spending several months reading it is "Hallelujah!" Thank God it's finished!

I didn't hate this book. In fact several times I caught myself thinking, "Oh Neil Gaiman, you write so well." Many, many times in fact. But there is something laborious about American Gods. Perhaps it's the windy plot line, the sheer size of it or maybe it was the characters themselves...I don't know. It's hard to pin point what exactly made the book a chore when most of the time I enjoyed Gaiman's writing style.

I'm glad I read this, but if I was being honest, it is more to say that I have.

On an unrelated note I went and saw The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo at the movie theatre last night. Oh my God! Please go see this film. It is beautiful and captures the book perfectly. I know they are talking about making an American version of this film, but the fact that it is set in Sweden, spoken in Swedish and played by Swedish actors makes it so authentic in a way I don't think an American version will be able to.

Hope everyone enjoyed their 4th of July! This week I'm going to start reading Marcel Proust's Swann's Way with a group on LT and hopefully dive into some more Bryson.

I am enjoying Swann's Way, Marie, so I hope you do too!

50. The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid: A Memoir by Bill Bryson

This is a fantastic book about Bryson's middle America childhood during the 1950's. He is very up front with the reader by explaining that nothing really happened to him, but I found that to be almost refreshing. I've read a lot of rebellious youth books and honestly it was nice change of pace. Sure, drugs and dysfunctional parents are interesting, but this book took me back to a place even more crazy - the fifties! This book convinced me I was born 35 years too late.

This is my first Bryson book, but it won't be my last. I love how genuine his writing is and his sense of humor is fantastic. Now I just have to pick from my long list of recommendations... :)

I am glad to hear that you enjoyed your first Bryson book!

I've been hearing from a few people lately that American Gods is a slog... guess I'll stick to his other books for the time being!

51. The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick

Phew, it's been a slow reading month for me. I've been trying my best with Swann's Way and even that isn't going so well.

But, anyways, this was a cute little book with great illustrations. I loved the blend of fiction with real life film pioneer Georges Méliès. I took a film class last year and we watched several of his films to learn about the techniques of early cinema. This book really captures that magical feel and pairs it with a engaging story full of youthful mystery. Recommended!

#51: I am glad you enjoyed that one, Marie!

Sorry I've been AWOL. RE: American Gods and slogging, LT helped me feel free to apply the '50 page' rule. If it hasn't grabbed me by then, forget it. Sometimes I continue on, but I'm still feeling free to put it down if it just isn't working for me.

Life's too short :) Read something you love. And still, I respect that you could slog through... But at least for now, I'm putting 'em down.

>176 RosyLibrarian:: I loved that book too! I'd love to read it again someday.

52. Neither Here nor There: Travels in Europe by Bill Bryson

I am enjoying Bill Bryson. His writing, while being funny, is also very charming. The subject matter for this one is his travels around Europe - something that interests me very much. Recommended and left me wanting to travel.

July

49: American Gods: A Novel by Neil Gaiman
50. The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid: A Memoir by Bill Bryson
51. The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
52. Neither Here nor There: Travels in Europe by Bill Bryson

Favorite: Bill Bryson's The Life and Times of Thunderbolt Kid. It was just a nice read and I mean that in the best way possible.

Man, I didn't have any ambition to read this month nor dive into LT. No reason why really, just enjoying a languid summer.

Next week my boyfriend and I are driving over to Disneyland so hopefully the time in the car will shift me into reading mode. Happy Friday everyone!

Summers are for enjoying, right? LT will still be here when you are ready for it.

#181 It looks like you read some good books in July and that's the important thing! I love Bill Bryson's books, they always make me smile :-)

American Gods is in my TBR pile but it's just so big... Lots of people in the group read in a few months ago and there were very mixed feelings about it so I'm a bit wary of reading it now!

I haven't posted at all this month because my grandmother passed away this week at the age of 93. If there is one person who has influenced my love of reading, it was her and I will miss her very much.

I think I have some comfort reading coming my way.

So sorry to hear about your loss. I hope she had a full and rewarding life, and died without a lot of pain and trauma. Definitely go for the comfort reads!

I'm very sorry to hear of your loss, Marie.

Take care of yourself and your family, I'm so sorry to hear about your Grandmother. You should most definitely have some Grandmother-influenced comfort reading time.

Comfort reading is definitely the order of the day. I know when my Grandmother died it helped me get through. I am so sorry for your loss, Marie.

Very sorry to hear about your grandmother, Marie. I hope the comfort reading is helpful.

Thank you for all the kind words. We had her funeral yesterday and it was absolutely beautiful. She lived an amazing life and witnessed some amazing moments in history. We were very close, even after I moved away for school, and I will miss her very much.

Again, thanks for all the thoughts.

On a book related note, I'm hoping to finish One Day on the flight back home today.

53. One Day by David Nicholls

One Day follows the lives of Dex and Emma, two star crossed lovers, as they navigate their twenties and thirties. This is a very truthful book and I marveled at it for that. The author portrayed relationships in a very real, and sometimes unflattering light. The format is also very interesting as each chapter is written about the same day, every year, from the 1980's up until about present day. It really made you think about how much happens in a year and how quickly life passes.

A word of caution. This book is actually very sad. Considering recent events I thought maybe I wouldn't want to finish this book, but the opposite was true. Sometimes being sad and reading sad things just makes you feel better.

#191: I already have One Day in the BlackHole.

I am glad you found it a good book for your right now, Marie.

Describe yourself: Story of a Girl
How do you feel: Sense and Sensibility
Describe where you currently live: Stranger In A Strange Land (I am not from Arizona and it really is a strange land.)
If you could go anywhere, where would you go: My Life in France
Your favorite form of transportation: Something Borrowed
Your best friend is: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
You and your friends are: The Wordy Shipmates
What’s the weather like: The Partly Cloudy Patriot
You fear: The Book Thief or Catching Fire!
What is the best advice you have to give: Drink, Play, F@#k (LOL! - It was either that or Eat, Pray, Love)
Thought for the day: Dress Your Family In Corduroy And Denim
How I would like to die: in Rainbow Valley
My soul’s present condition: The Hunger Games (I didn't eat breakfast...)

Fun! :)

54. The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest by Stieg Larsson

It's tragic that Steig Larsson passed away before he could continue with the Millennium series. There's so much to them that keeps you engaged and on the edge of your seat.

That being said, this was probably my least favorite of the series. I often just felt like too much was going on. Side plots came in and out of focus too often. There wasn't enough of the main characters for my liking.

Still, I enjoyed it and it had shinning moments. The trial at the end was brilliant and overall this would be a series I would gladly revisit at a later time.

I'm sorry for your loss and glad you enjoyed One Day. I love how sometimes the universe gives us the right book at the right time.

#194: I still need to read that one! *sigh*

*giggles at your quiz answers*

55. Winnie-the-Pooh by A. A. Milne
56. The House at Pooh Corner by A. A. Milne

I don't think it matters how old you are, Winnie-the-Pooh and his friends are always good for the soul. The older I get, the funnier his adventures are too. Always worth the read.

#198: Always worth the read.

Definitely!

#198: I just read the Pooh books last year and just loved them (I hadn't read them as a child). And I totally agree with you--they are good for the soul. (I might have to go find them at the library again--or, better yet! Get my own copies!)

Karen O.

The Pooh books! Aw, this makes me want to read them again too. How fantastic.

I like your quiz answers! Hmm, catching fire or book thieves . . . which is scarier?

202: Hmmm. That is a good question! I'd be sad if my books were stolen, but physical pain is no good either... ;)

57. Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater

I felt kind of 'meh' about this book. It's not fair, but I couldn't help but compare it to Twilight. Girl meets boy. Boy is a mythological being. Absent-minded parental figures. I couldn't really get excited about it, though I thought the writing was good and I enjoyed the different perspective of the two main characters, Sam and Grace. Linger is the sequel and I may get to it some day, but I'm not in a hurry.

#203: Sorry you did not enjoy Shiver more, Marie. I preferred it to Twilight (I never read beyond the first book in the series).

I hope your next read is more to your taste!

Thanks Stasia! I didn't not enjoy it...I just think I'm burned out on Vampires, Werewolves, etc. So really it is no fault of the author and I should have thought about that before I kept reading. I also thought she was a good writer and blew Stephanie Meyers out of the water. I think when I'm feeling less ambivalent about mythological creatures I'll return to Linger and hopefully enjoy it more. :)

August

53. One Day by David Nicholls
54. The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest by Stieg Larsson
55. Winnie-the-Pooh by A. A. Milne
56. The House at Pooh Corner by A. A. Milne
57. Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater

Favorite: While I love A. A. Milne, I think my favorite new book to read was One Day. It was just nice to read a book that wasn't part of a series.

#205: I understand what you mean about being burnt out on a subject. I do that to myself some times.

Woo hoo! I love checking my e-mail and finding out that I've won an Early Reviewers book. This month it is The Dissemblers by Liza Campbell. I keep winning art related books since two months ago I won Stealing the Mystic Lamb: The True Story of the World's Most Coveted Masterpiece by Noah Charney (which I have yet to finish and review - yikes!). I kind of wonder how much checking into your profile they do since I graduated with my BA in art history. Or maybe I'm just really lucky.

Hope everyone had good luck with it too. Happy Thursday!

Congratulations on the ER books! I feel lucky this month, too--I got Wolf Hall, which I never thought I'd win!

Ooo, nice! That one did look interesting. I'm a sucker for all things King Henry VIII - looking forward to the review!

Marie,

So sorry about your grandma. Guess I lost the last of my grandparents last year. But she didn't make it to 93 although her husband died at 94. I think about her often. Glad you got to go to the funeral - sounds like it was a celebration of her life. I'm glad.

{{hugs}}

Thanks for the thoughts and hugs Susan. I'm sorry for your loss too. Grandparents are such special people and I am glad I was so close to my grandmother. Doesn't living until your nineties just seem crazy? I can't even imagine all of the things they saw...hugs to you too!

58. The Good Man Jesus and the Scoundrel Christ by Philip Pullman

I love Philip Pullman and when I saw he had a new story, I jumped it to the top of my reading list. It reaffirmed why I love him as an author and it is simply because he knows how to tell a story. While this book is steeped in controversy, at the heart of it is an examination of how our history is told and accounted for through time.

59. Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Spoilers!

I hardly have to say I recommend this book because anyone who read The Hunger Games and Catching Fire will NEED to finish the series. For those who haven't, start reading these books because they are amazingly thought provoking and filled with characters you will come to have a strong attachment with.

I loved this last book for its truth. It didn't sugar coat what happens to people who have been through traumatic situations. Collins expertly portrayed the emotions of not just the main character, but those around her dealing with such a stark reality. The thing so captivating about these books has been how very dismal the world they live in is, but also how they overcome it. Thus the rebellion.

The rebellion itself was fascinating. It examined how wars and the ideology behind them work. I felt constantly on my toes trying to guess what would happen next, but I was never prepared and for that I felt it to be an exciting read.

The ending, in my opinion, was all I could hope for. I wondered who she would end up with and at several points in the series swapped my allegiance. I really thought Peeta wouldn't walk away from the last book, but the epilogue was so sweet and almost hopeful that I'm glad it was him.

Edited for a typo.

#214: Skipping the review of Mockingjay until I get to the book myself - which hopefully will be soon!

Today's the day I've been dreading. My significant other deployed this morning to the Middle East and will be gone until January. It's a fairly short deployment, but right over the holidays...

He's not much of a reader, but I sent him with a copy of Gulliver's Travels that we're supposed to read together - neither of us having read it.

So today, please keep our troops in your thoughts.

#216: Marie, I know how difficult this day is for you. My stepson did two tours of duty in Afghanistan and Iraq. I will keep you and your SO in my prayers.

((((Marie)))). Thinking of you both.

Marie, I can't imagine how hard this must be. Thinking of you both.

xox

Thanks for all the thoughts! He's somewhere over the Atlantic at the moment...so hopefully I get word in the next two days that he made it there safely.

On to book related things...

60. Stuffed: Adventures of a Restaurant Family by Patricia Volk

This book is very moving and highly recommended. Stuffed is the memoir of Patty and her close knit semi-Jewish restaurant-owning family living in New York City. She made me feel like a part of this larger than life family. Grandmothers, grandfathers, great aunts, cousins, parents, a sister, whoever, I felt like they were mine. I was homesick for people I will never meet.

I laughed with this book. I cried with this book. While it had no singular plot, it dived into the personal lives of those the author loved and I was entranced by their mannerisms and they way they all connected together. No one was perfect, but the author's love for them made them seem that way. You could just feel it radiating off the pages.

#221: I will have to look for that one. Thanks for the recommendation, Marie!

I hope you get word soon about your SO.

Thanks Stasia, he made it there safe!

61: Bonk by Mary Roach

I have been meaning to dive into Mary Roach for awhile now and her writing and research did not disappoint. Bonk is tasteful, interesting, well studied and organized. The best part, however, was Roach's sense of humor. Sometimes her work took her to some interesting places and I had to give her credit for diving right in with an almost sarcastic approach. While I recommend this book, I do have to say that I am glad to be done reading about human (and animal!) genitalia. My brain needs some good fiction...

I am going to be reading Roach's Stiff this month. I have never read anything of hers before, but have heard good things about her books.

Glad to hear that your SO has arrived safely!

Hey, I just finished Bonk too! I agree 100% with your review. Roach is funny, the book is interesting, and I needed a break too after finishing it. Honestly, I think Spook is her best, followed by Stiff, then Bonk. But that reflects my fascination with the subject of afterlife more than anything about the quality of the books, I suspect.

Stuffed looks like my kind of book!

224 & 225: I need to add Spook and Stiff to my wish list. Both sound fascinating and with her quality of research I imagine they are well done. Jim, I think Spook sounds right up my alley too. I'd love to read the unexplained...explained. :)

226: Yes! Please read this book and tell me what you think. I haven't rated a book that high in a long time. My review doesn't do it justice.

Edited for a spelling mistake - ack!

62. Pollyanna by Eleanor Porter

My stars and stockings, I am so GLAD I read this book! I am. I am.

(No, but seriously, it is a charming story. Now I need to re-watch the Haley Mills Disney version.)

#228: I love the Disney version. I think Jane Wyman was perfectly cast as Aunt Polly.

63. Lopsided: How Having Breast Cancer Can Be Really Distracting by Meredith Norton

The title to this book will give you a good idea what this book is about. It is the memoir of a woman who is diagnosed with breast cancer and battles it with a humorous approach. Don't get me wrong, it's not a funny book. The author is very honest about what a hard battle cancer is, but the way she wrote about it made the experience less sad and more authentic. I can't find any more books by this author and I don't think she has a career in writing, but I found her story to be well written and heartfelt.

September

58. The Good Man Jesus and the Scoundrel Christ by Philip Pullman
59. Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins
60. Stuffed: Adventures of a Restaurant Family by Patricia Volk
61: Bonk by Mary Roach
62. Pollyanna by Eleanor Porter
63. Lopsided: How Having Breast Cancer Can Be Really Distracting by Meredith Norton

Favorite: Stuffed by Patricia Volk. I can't recommend this book enough even though I'm a terrible reviewer. I actually seemed to have read a lot of memoirs this month...

64. Dear American Airlines: A Novel by Jonathan Miles

This book is a letter, penned by the main character Bennie Ford, to American Airlines that reads like a memoir. What starts off as an angry letter about his canceled flight to see his daughter's wedding turns into his life's story. For me, this was an effective approach and was a well written and fascinating, dark and sobering story. Recommended.

#64: Looks like my local library finally has that one. Thanks for the reminder about it.

It's good Stacia - dark, but ultimately uplifting I think.

65. Starclimber by Kenneth Oppel

I LOVE this cute little series. This is the third and final book of Matt Cruse and his adventurous friends. Highly satisfying and wonderful when listened to as an audio book due to its full cast of voice actors. It's one of those series where you end it and want to start all over again.

#234: I need to get back to that series. I have read the first couple.

Marie
I highly recommend Stiff. This well-written book contains a plethora of information given in a wonderfully humorous manner.

Thanks Linda - it's high on my list of books to watch out for. It has been a long time since I went to the book store...where I have credit... Dangerous! :)

66. The Looking Glass Wars by Frank Beddor

After seeing it so highly recommended on a couple of other threads, I thought I would try out my new phone and use my local library's audio book service to download The Looking Glass Wars on to it - for free! What an easy and effective way to borrow audio books from the library.

Anyways - on to the book itself. The Looking Glass Wars was an interesting fusion of the real story of Alice Liddell, the Alice in Wonderland books and the author's own plot devices.

Alyss Hart is the princess of Wonderland until her Aunt Redd takes over it by force and thus expels her niece into a version of the real life Victorian age. She is adopted and eventually her stories are turned into the Lewis Carroll version as we know it. But of course she is the rightful Queen of Wonderland and must return to take back her throne and so the adventure begins.

All in all, it's a satisfying read. Some of the ideas end up being a little cliche, but there are enough interesting characters to keep you wanting more. Hopefully I'll be able to read the sequel soon to see if Beddor keeps the momentum rolling.

#238: That one is on the way to me now. I hope I like it!

I hope so too Stacia! I try to keep up with your threads to see what you end up thinking of books, but by the time I get caught up...there's a new one! Ha ha :)

#240: but by the time I get caught up...there's a new one!

I know what you mean, Marie. I cannot keep caught up to me, either :)

67. The Boleyn Inheritance by Philippa Gregory

I am fascinated by all things Tudor, so I may be a bit biased in my recommendation of this book. The thing is that I know what happens to all of King Henry's poor wives and yet this book had me gripped until the end. Gregory makes us so sympathetic to the plights of these women that you hope for a different outcome.

An interesting inclusion was Jane Boleyn, the wife of George Boleyn and sister-in-law to Anne, King Henry VIII's second wife. Though I never thought of her as a good person in life, this book made me feel sorry for her in historical fiction. It's amazing what these kind of books do for historical figures.

So, in short, if you're a fan of Tudor England, give this book a try. For me, she is an engaging writer that always leaves me thinking about her portrayal of royal life for days.

Marie, do you have a non-fiction Tudor favorite? Every time I watch The Tudors or a movie set in that period it makes me want to read something about that time that's more historically accurate, but I somehow never get around to it.

That's a good question Shauna, and honestly I can't say that one comes to mind. Everything I know about that time period comes from college books or my time spent living in London. I do however have a book on my wishlist called Six Wives: The Queens of Henry VIII by David Starkey that was recommended to me and looks like it got good reviews.

Antonia Fraser's The Wives of Henry VIII is pretty awesome.

245: Wishlisted!

68. I Was Told There'd Be Cake by Sloane Crosley

I'm glad I ran across this book because I'm excited to see what else she writes. Crosley is often compared to David Sedaris in all the reviews I read and I think this is a great compliment because I am a huge Sedaris fan! Pick this up if you like funny, smart and insightful authors.

69: Talking to Girls About Duran Duran: One Young Man's Quest for True Love and a Cooler Haircut by Rob Sheffield

I'm afraid I was a little too young for this book, being born towards the latter part of the 80's, but this only serves as a testament to Rob Sheffield's writing skills because I still found it highly enjoyable.

Rob Sheffield is just cool. He just gets pop culture and how it influences all of us. I know of no other author that can write about a band and make me feel absolutely glued to his thoughts about them. I mean, I know next to nothing about Duran Duran in particular and now I want nothing more than to go google their music.

The other thing I like about Sheffield is his ability to relate music to his own life. The stories he ties together are captivating. If you haven't read anything by him yet, my suggestion would be to start with Love Is A Mixtape and get a feel for his life and come back to this book to hang out with an old friend, because that is what he will start to feel like.

#247: I have had Love Is a Mix Tape in the BlackHole for a while now. Thanks for the reminder, Marie. I will bump it up!

70: Guernica and Total War by Ian Patterson

My Grandmother who passed away in August was from the Basque country and lately I've felt the need to read more about my roots. I figured I would start with some non-fiction before continuing on with Guernica by Dave Boling.

The bombing of Guernica and Franco's rise to power was the reason my Grandmother immigrated to France and finally to the United States, so a lot of information in this book wasn't new to me. It was interesting though to read all the incorporated news articles from the time and how it was perceived world wide. I had no idea that the Germans formally denied any involvement until the 1990's.

The book covers a lot more then just the bombing of Guernica and that is where I found myself nodding off. It talks a lot about total warfare in general and it just wasn't what I was interested in, though this really isn't the fault of the author. I would recommend this as a starting point for anyone interested in the Spanish Civil War and warfare in general.

Note: Guernica is pronounced gare-knee-ka.

Part Two!