Mark's Reading Place: Warble On #17

^Japanese cover art for Kafka on the Shore





- Mertim Gokalp

Audiobook:



Graphic:


Books Read So Far...

May:

56) Annihilation (Southern Reach Trilogy) by Jeff VanderMeer 4 stars (audio)
57) The Dark Horse: (A Longmire Mystery) by Craig Johnson 3.8 stars (audio)
58) The Accident by Chris Pavone 3.7 stars
59) Mad Mouse: A John Ceepak Mystery by Chris Grabenstein 3.6 stars (audio)
60) The Harlem Hellfighters by Max Brooks 4.4 stars GN
61) Hammered: Book Three by Kevin Hearne 4 stars (audio)
62) Pnin by Vladimir Nabokov 4.5 stars
63) The Purity of Vengeance: Dept. Q by Jussi Adler-Olsen 3.7 stars (audio)
64) The Farm by Tom Rob Smith 4.5 stars
65) Before I Go To Sleep by S. J. Watson 3.6 stars (audio)
66) The Confabulist by Steven Galloway 3.5 stars E.R.
67) Slash and Burn: A Dr. Siri Mystery by Colin Cotterill 4 stars (audio)
68) The Collected Stories of Eudora Welty by Eudora Welty 3.8 stars (Read the 1st 2 collections)
69) Midnight in Europe by Alan Furst 4.2 stars (E)
70) When We Were the Kennedys: A Memoir from Mexico, Maine by Monica Wood 4.6 stars
71) Burial Rites by Hannah Kent 4.4 stars (audio)

June:

72) Finn: A Novel by Jon Clinch 5 stars
73) A Symphony of Echoes (Chronicles of St Mary's) by Jodi Taylor 3.8 stars (audio)
74) Dust and Shadow: An Account of the Ripper Killings by Lyndsay Faye 4 stars (audio)
75) Airships by Barry Hannah 3.8 stars
76) Longbourn by Jo Baker 4.2 stars (audio)
77) Breakfast of Champions by Kurt Vonnegut 3.7 stars AAC
78) The Reluctant Fundamentalist by Mohsin Hamid 4 stars (audio)
79) The Rise & Fall of Great Powers by Tom Rachman 4.3 stars (E)
80) The Monuments Men by Robert M. Edsel 4.2 stars (audio)
81) My Accidental Jihad by Krista Bremer 4 stars Booktopia
82) The Reason I Jump by Naoki Higashida 3.8 stars (audio)
83) The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton 4.3 stars (audio/print)
84) Mother Night by Kurt Vonnegut 4.6 stars (audio) AAC
85) The Good Inn: An Illustrated Novel by Black Francis 3 stars
86) Border Songs by Jim Lynch 5 stars (audio)
87) Open City by Teju Cole 4.2 stars

July:

88) The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupery 3.7 stars
89) Redeployment by Phil Klay 4.7 stars (audio)
** The Bees by Laline Paull: DNF
90) The Snack Thief by Andrea Camilleri 4.2 stars (audio)
91) The Plover: A Novel by Brian Doyle 4.7 stars E.R.
92) The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain 4.2 stars (audio) AAC
93) Fishing the Sloe-Black River: Stories by Colum McCann 4.3 stars
94) The Wife, the Maid, and the Mistress by Ariel Lawhon 4 stars (audio) Booktopia
95) Tricked (Iron Druid Chronicles) by Kevin Hearne 4.2 stars (audio)
96) Middlemarch by George Eliot 5 stars (audio) G.R.

American Author Challenge 2014

Willa Cather- January
William Faulkner- February
Cormac McCarthy- March
Toni Morrison- April
Eudora Welty- May
Kurt Vonnegut- June
Mark Twain- July
Philip Roth- August
James Baldwin- September
Edith Wharton- October
John Updike- November
Larry Watson- December

Mark's picks:

Willa Cather- Death Comes for the Archbishop * Completed
William Faulkner- Light in August Completed
Cormac McCarthy- Suttree * Completed
Toni Morrison- Tar Baby * Completed
Eudora Welty- The Collected Stories * Completed Read the first 2 collections
Kurt Vonnegut- Mother Night* Breakfast of Champions Completed
Mark Twain- Life on the Mississippi- Thanks to RD * The Adventures of Tom Sawyer *
Philip Roth- The Plot Against America *
James Baldwin- Giovanni's Room- Thanks to Kerri *
Edith Wharton- The Custom of the Country
John Updike- Rabbit Run *
Larry Watson- Orchard or White Crosses or both. *

* On shelf

**If you are interested in the American Author Challenge, check out the main thread. This is shaping up to be a highlight of the year, IMHO:

http://www.librarything.com/topic/162960

I thought this would be a good idea, to keep track of what is coming up and to supply links when they are available.

July:

Mark Twain- American Author Challenge: http://www.librarything.com/topic/176689

Middlemarch Group Read: http://www.librarything.com/topic/177727#

August:

Philip Roth American Author Challenge: http://www.librarything.com/topic/178271

Asheville Booktopia

Safe to come in? Congrats on the new thread -- and reminding us there is a Happy Place to go to!

Happy new thread, Mark!

>5 michigantrumpet:- You are first, Marianne! Aren't you special?



>2 msf59:- Nothing wrong with second place, Mamie! Thanks!

I think you should get that poor dear up there a pillow for her neck. I worry about her.

Nice new nest!

^I WANT ONE!!

>8 Crazymamie:. Yes! I was thinking that, too!

Cheers to your new thread Mark!

>8 Crazymamie: >11 michigantrumpet:- A nice pillow might help but she does look content. And how about those boots?

>9 mckait:- Waves & Hugs!

>12 Carmenere:- Thanks, Lynda! Happy Weekend!

>10 msf59: Sweet! Have a great weekend Mark

>8 Crazymamie: - yes, that neck was way too bended...bent....what is it? Pillow is definitely needed, as well as a dictionary for me, or maybe a grammar.

I've been out watering in advance of the heat of the day. We have predictions of 90 degree weather for a couple few days. Whew.

I will go to the HOA library (air conditioning) and read while I have it open for others to find some cool place.

Speaking of a new route, how are the feet lately?

Mark, I'm sneaking in while your thread is new (and I'm sure that it will be a happy one!) to speak and to look back to see what you thought of Finn. I just got a copy from PBS on a whim, because I had an extra credit, and I'm thrilled to see that you gave it 5 stars. Off to see your comments!

Whew! I have been running errands for the last couple hours and it drizzled/rained nearly the whole time. They canceled the Taste of Chicago for the day. Hey, at least I am not working. Silver linings, folks.

We have a busy afternoon ahead of us. My goddaughter is having an engagement party and this will be at a Irish pub and then onto a graduation party, which is supposed to be outside. We will see. There are supposed to be heavier storms, moving in tonight.

>14 luvamystery65:- Waves & Hugs Ro! Hope you are having a great long weekend.

>15 maggie1944:- It sounds like you guys have been stuck in quite a warm pattern, Karen. We've been mercifully cooler, than normal. Happy Face.

>16 Morphidae: Thanks for asking, Morphy. My feet have been great. I just keep up with my foot stretches and wear my inserts and no issues. Happy Face again.

>17 LizzieD: Great to see you Lizzy. Thanks for stopping by. Sadly, I never reviewed Finn but I can say, it is a MUST READ!! And would be perfect addition for the Twain AAC.

Hi Mark, nice new thread. Happy weekend!!

I've got dinner with my bff's tonight and the Cubs game tomorrow but I figure to have plenty of reading time this weekend. Great game in Milwaukee last night. Brewers were up 6-0 over the Cardinals after 2 innings. Cards chipped away to tie it and then homered in the 9th to win it. Always tough to get out of the Miller Park lots. That, plus a near-4 hour game, meant I didn't get home til 1:30.

>10 msf59: I want one too! Where do I sign up?

Happy new thread, Mark!

Happy new thread!

Happy New Thread Mark! Love the Japanese cover art.

"'Hey. Atticus. Do you automatically feel more like a badass with a sword strapped across your back?'"

^A Oberon inquiry.

"They're sort of like zombies on Red Bull."

^Tricked

Question: What is a cockwaffle? A word used in this book. I stumbled on a right-wing website, while looking for a definition and they were using it to describe Obama. The bastards...

>19 lindapanzo:- Glad you had a good time at the Brewers game, Linda. Enjoy the rest of your weekend.

>20 BekkaJo:- I will let you know, when I find out, Bekka. LOL.

>21 katiekrug: >22 richardderus:- Waves & hugs to Katie & RD!

>23 Smiler69:- As soon as I saw that cover, Ilana, I knew I had to share it.

>24 msf59: - I had to look up cockwaffle on Urban Dictionary. It's just a generic insult. I will be adding it to my personal repertoire, of which my current favorite is ass hat.

Happy New Thread, Mark and happy party. :-D

Happy New Thread, Mark, and Happy Saturday!

Yay for no foot pain!

Happy Saturday! I hope the new route turns out to be a winner for you. And I would never accuse you of being a cockwaffle, just saying. Or an ass hat. LOL

Happy new thread, Mark!!

Hi Mark! Just dropping by to say while I am not doing so great at keeping up with LT, I am continuing my AAC reading this month with Twain's Life on the Mississippi. I believe our dear Richard recommended this one and it is super excellent so far.

Glad to hear your foot pain is improved!

Life on the Mississippi is one of my all-time favorite Twains. I have to say I'm struggling with Letters from the Earth, though.

I liked that dog, up there. Insults, not so much.

Richard, I thought Letters from the Earth was brilliant. I read it years ago. Twain's sarcasm shines in this one. Have you read The Mysterious Stranger? If not, you may want to give it a try.

>34 maggie1944: They aren't insults taken in context.

ETA: Er, if you are talking about the Oberon quotes.

I was referring to "cockwaffle", and "ass hat". I recognize they are intended to be funny but I just don't see the humor. There are some funny insults, and I am fond of some others such as "callow youth", "whippersnapper", really old ones, like those, and others which I can't remember, being a crabby old lady.

ETA: pusillanimous pussyfooters

supercilious, and so forth

>37 maggie1944: It's all subjective, surely? And since, by my reading, none of them were being flung in anyone's direction, surely it's moot???

Mark, are you going to benefit from this kooky summertime polar vortex? I was looking at some of the weather maps, and it seemed as if you'll be seeing HIGHS in the low 70s? Could this be right? If so, you may need to drag out your autumn gear for the next few days!

I really like that Murakami cover art up top. It's long past time that I read some of his fiction. I suppose part of the problem is that I just don't know where to start -- and I don't feel a strong compulsion to delve into it beyond the vague "ought to" feeling!

>10 msf59: oh yea. That jar is rad ;) (as they say)

The Murakami cover art perplexes me, I think it is the colour combination that irks me. Sheesh, you just can't please some people! I have yet to read any of his fiction (I think) and as Suzanne says, I can't get past the feeling that I should!

Happiest of new threads to you, my good man!

Morning, Mark! Happy Sunday!

Happy Sunday! Had a long day yesterday, of socializing and partying. I think today will be more kickback. House chores, alternated with R & R. Sounds like a plan!

>26 katiekrug: Thanks Katie! I had a feeling that was what cockwaffle meant. LOL. I am also a fan of ass hat. It just fits...sometimes.

>27 Ameise1: >28 Storeetllr: Waves & Hugs to Barb & Mary

>29 Morphidae: Thanks, Morphy! Hope it lasts.

>30 Berly: I will see tomorrow how the route goes. I think it will be just fine but I just do not understand why this was necessary at all. Thanks for not considering me a cockwaffle or ass hat. Much appreciated. LOL.

>32 Cobscook: Good to see you, Heidi. I am glad you are enjoying Life on the Mississippi. The folks currently reading it, all seem to like it. I am saving it for the end of the month.

>33 richardderus: Looks like Life on the Mississippi was an excellent recommendation, RD. Glad you are joining us for this month's AAC but sorry the Twain isn't cutting it. I am not familiar with that one.

>34 maggie1944: Glad you like the wolfhound, Karen. The Iron Druid series is a lot of fun and they are very consistent. I kind of like "pusillanimous pussyfooters". It has a certain ring to it.

>35 Whisper1: Big Waves to Linda!

>38 Chatterbox: It looks like we are going to be mostly in the 70s next week, which is actually ideal for me. I think this has been a perfect summer so far, let's hope the 2nd half is just as sweet.
Murakami is not for everyone but if he clicks for you, you are in for a treat. My first was Kafka on the Shore and it made me an instant fan. You could try that or After the Quake, his excellent story collection.

>39 LovingLit: You have a better artistic eye than I, Ms Megan! There is something about that cover art that I find appealing. I strongly recommend trying Murakami. If you try it and it doesn't work, then you can safely move on.

>40 scaifea: Morning Amber!!

>38 Chatterbox: - not intending to be argumentative, nor critical, I was just commenting on how preferences are different one person to another; I'm just not one for what might be called bathroom humor, more liking plays with words, I guess. No harm.

Seems as though Chicago and Seattle have switched summertime weather for a day or two. We continue to be unusually warm, and there are lots of people seeking cooling off. I had a very busy day yesterday, and look forward to spending most of today relaxing. And reading, of course.

^The Middlemarch Group Read thread is up. I hope we get some attendees and a few visitors:

http://www.librarything.com/topic/177727#

^ I also included it up there in Upcoming Events, for handy access.

>42 maggie1944: Pull my finger.

Hee hee.

Happy new thread Mark! I hope you have a great Sunday.

>42 maggie1944: No probs! The perils of cyberspace communication...

I'd love to revisit Middlemarch but *gulp* I have to read Dante this month for RL book circle.

Thanks for the Murakami rec, Mark. Maybe I can ponder that for later in the year... I just struggle with anything that feels like a "should", you know?

I already Middlemarched once this lifetime. Y'all have fun now! Don't forget to pack a lunch! And take your sweater, it gets really cold.

>44 Morphidae: Hey, no pulling fingers. Do that on your own thread.

>45 Thebookdiva: Waves & Hugs to Abby!

>46 Chatterbox: Of course, no one "should" have to read anything but you won't know until you give it a go! Like, I mentioned up there, he is not for everyone but, no question, he is a one-of-a-kind.

>47 richardderus: Thanks, RD! I always pack a lunch and I will make sure I bring a sweater. Giggles a little...

Nice new thread, Mark! I like the Murakami image in your first post as well. (Don't listen to that troublemaker Megan.) Could you please send some of that 70's summer weather down South? TYIA.

If Middlemarch isn't your cup of tea you could try War and Peace. Last night on BookTV I aw an author who has written a book about why and how W&P is a book for the ages and is so universal in meaning. His name was Andrew Kaufman and the book was Give War and Peace A Chance. It sounded very interesting.

To answer you question from the last thread - yes. Lou Diamond Phillips was the star of the Joe Leaphorn/Jimmy Chee PBS series. It sort of remade his career after his early successes as one of the Young Guns of Hollywood.

Regarding the Murakami artwork - all of his original publications in the U.S. had very distinctive artwork. Each title was different but still looked similar. I loved them and you could sure pick them out of the crowd. The cover artwork seemed to be ubiquitous in coffee shops. I am glad to see that the distinctive cover art tradition for Murakami works continues in Japan. The more recent U.S. publications don't have that distinctive look. (See cover of 1Q84)

I am not sure where my weekend went but it sure went in a hurry.

Mark, I saw this, and it made me think of you!

>49 kidzdoc: Hi, Darryl! Good to see you, sir. It sounds like you guys are getting some unusually warm weather. Boo! I hope that changes for you.

>50 benitastrnad: Have you read Middlemarch, Benita? I am considering kicking off the new year with War and Peace. I would do the audio/print approach. Have you read that one?

>51 Crazymamie: You know, I LOVE that image. Thanks! She looks a bit like Emma Stone.

I got to thinkin' about some of the unreviewed books I need to get to, and thinkin' about today's meme-prompt: Beautiful title...hmmm...well, nothing beats The Optimist's Daughter for euphony and for sheer exuberant positivity of the image evoked.

I got the review up in the Orphans thread...post #65.

I'm off to put the link in the old Miss Eu author thread, too.

>53 richardderus:- Thanks, RD! I have The Optimist's Daughter on my To-Read list and I have a couple more of her later story collections to get to. I prefer Flannery O'Connor, in that department but I will give them a go.

Hi Mark. I loved Middlemarch so much the first time when I listened last year, I'm very tempted to join, but don't know if it makes sense to reread it again quite so soon, especially since I've had The Mill on the Floss waiting on the tbr for a long time now.

I thought we'd already agree on starting the new year with War and Peace... isn't that a done deal?!

Hi Mark, I've been away from the computer, trying to stay cool as we are having a hot spell right now. One day away from LT and now scurrying like crazy to catch up. I would like to be standing beside that woman in >51 Crazymamie:, that looks like the perfect place to read!

Happy new thread, Mark. Hope the new route is good and I'm glad you have happy feet again.

“She gathered books like clouds and words poured down like rain”

― Marcus Zusak



- Kurt Solmssen

>55 Smiler69: I forgot that I had already mentioned tackling War and Peace in January. I think Joe and I were talking about it too. It's probably a good idea, to just knock it out first thing. I do like kicking off my new year with a chunkster and that is the King of Chunksters.

>56 DeltaQueen50: Great to see you Judy! I hope it cools off for you guys. We are going to be in the lovely 70s through the week. Yah!

>57 tymfos: Great to see you, Terri! So far my feet have definitely been on the happy side. Hope you had a wonderful weekend.

>52 msf59: The weather in Atlanta is exactly where it should be, Mark. The normal high for today is 89 degrees, and that was today's high temperature as well. I'm not a warm weather fan, though, and anything above 80 degrees is too hot for me.

That is so funny. The weather in Seattle was up near 89 recently. I'm not a fan of hot weather, either. It is one of my favorite recollections of Chicago and the reasons why I left.

>60 kidzdoc: Hope you had a good day, Darryl! Hope your work week goes smoothly.

>61 maggie1944: I am not a fan of hot weather either, especially the humid type, but this summer is looking mighty fine so far. Hope you have a nice week, Karen.

>62 msf59: That's a deliciously disturbing image.

Happy New thread, Mark! I just love both the quote and image you've posted in >58 msf59:!

Blue Monday! Reconfigured route. Heavy volume. Six day work week. Offset somewhat by books and good weather. I will persevere.

I did start, on audio, Aimless Love, which might be my very first poetry collection. It is lovely so far and perfectly accessible, plus it is narrated by Collins. I tried to finish up Tricked yesterday but I hope to wrap it up today, so I can move on to Middlemarch.

>63 laytonwoman3rd: Good to see you, Linda! Yes, that is a creepy image.

>64 TinaV95: What a nice surprise, Tina! Hope you had a great weekend.

>44 Morphidae: *SNORK!*

Morning, Mark! Wishing you a featherweight mail bag today on your new route!

Good luck out there today, Mark! LOVE that image in >62 msf59:!

Happy Monday Mark!

Best of luck with the new route and the long work week. I am sure you will soon have many new fans! Hope the poetry works out for you. : )

Congrats on the new thread, Mark!

I'm glad you're off to a good start with Aimless Love.

I starred the Middlemarch thread so I can follow along. I think you're going to have a good time with this one.

I got halfway through Guns in August, and halfway through War and Peace. Not sure what that says about me. I was just ready for something else with both of them, but also wanting to finish them. I'll try to do that before the end of the year.

OMG! What a cluster fu....!

Happy Bastille Day! It's the fourteenth day of following the Book-A-Day meme, honoring our favorite French novel, or novel set in or about France. I picked Susanne Alleyn's wonderful Dickens-inspired novel A Far Better Rest. Yes. You read that right. Go look at my review in my thread...post #71.

Hope the cluster unfu....!s soon.

>71 msf59: wha????

>71 msf59: I'm guessing the new route isn't going well?

Awww, poor Mark. Hope the afternoon of the new route is better than the morning sounds like it was.

Dropping this off for after work. Sounds like you're gonna need it. YOU poor, poor baby!

Poor Mark. Hang in there!

Ai-yi-yi, time for a beer!

Uh oh, hoping things got better Mark, as the day went on.

Sounds like your day didn't go so well, Mark. I hope you are able to enjoy a relaxing evening of family, books and beer.

Weary waves from the Midwest. At least the 2nd half of the day was better than the first and at least management gave me assistance again, which was another shock, otherwise I would have been out there until 6 pm. Now, the next step is to write down all the mistakes they made in the scheme and get corrections made. What a hassle! Of course, it cut into my reading time too, (I know, I know: POOR ME! LOL). I did not finish Tricked. WTH, but I am going to try again tonight, if I don't nod off. I probably won't be able to visit the threads tonight, like I hoped...

>66 scaifea: Learning residential is pretty easy but the new business section I received is a bit messy, so it's going to take me awhile to iron out the wrinkles.

>67 Crazymamie: >68 Whisper1: >69 Berly: Waves & Hugs to Mamie, Linda & Kim!!

>70 jnwelch: Hey Joe! I really liked Aimless Love, the audio is just fine but I think poetry might be best served in print, so you can reread lines and passages. I do have a library copy of the Collins book, so I will probably flip back through it.
Glad to see you reading Guns of August. Many LT pals have liked that one. I have it saved on audio, so maybe I can bookhorn it in, in the coming months.
Hey Mister, I thought we were reading War and Peace in January? The nerve...

>72 richardderus: Thanks RD, I will happily check out the review.

>73 maggie1944: >74 laytonwoman3rd: >75 lindapanzo: Hi Karen, Linda & Linda! The poor guy who did my route on Saturday, (with all the new & puzzling changes) had no idea what he was doing and brought back big chunks of the business mail, which I had to sort through and re-case. Ugh!

>76 Crazymamie:- Oooooooooooh, Dogfish Head. You sure know how to cheer a guy up, Mamie! Big HUG!!

>77 lauralkeet: Thanks, Laura! I did survive, just slightly wounded.

>78 jnwelch: Ooooooh, Levitation! You almost made up for War and Peace kerfuffle, with that. Smirks...

>79 brenzi: >80 DeltaQueen50: Thanks Bonnie & Judy! I am tired but I survived. I hope I have enough gas in the tank, to crack a book...

Hi, Mark ~ Sorry to hear the new route is so much trouble! Isn't that just like management, though? At least in my experience. Take a system that works perfectly well and muck around with it until it, well, doesn't! Hope you get a good night's sleep and that things will get straightened out soon so you can get back into a happy routine.

Sorry to hear work was a hassle.

that is the King of Chunksters

You're probably right about that. I've accumulated quite a few mega-books over the years and would be curious to see how they all compare to W&P as far as size goes. I'm sure there a function on LT for that.

Oh no!!! :(

Here's hoping that tomorrow is a better day!

Slept like a rock! A nice cool night too and only 69 today. Some may shiver and grumble, I am not one of those. Grins... I did not finish Tricked, although I gave it the old college try. I WILL finish it and I WILL start Middlemarch, on audio and later in print.

If you are on the fence about joining us for the G.R. of Middlemarch, jump on down, brush off your seat and come on down.

>82 Storeetllr: What is puzzling Mary, is many of the other routes were barely touched and a couple of the "slackers" that surround me, had a bit subtracted and that's it. WTH?

>83 Smiler69: Thanks, Ilana! I am sure there are bigger books than W & P but not many. I am so glad we have the audio/print option.

>84 TinaV95: Thanks, Tina! I am sure it will be get better each day but what a frustrating decision.

Oh, Mark, you're so adorable when you're sleeping! *snork!*
Best of luck out there today - at least you've got this amazing weather to enjoy!

>85 msf59: That's what you get for being the best. Ain't life grand?

Courage for the day! I'd kill for a low of 69° any night of the week!
SUPERCILLIOUS pusillanimous pussyfooters!!!! There.
And although the time for discussing it is gone, The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle was my first Murakami and still the best. Just as well jump in all the way all at once.

Better day today, mostly because of the light volume. It gives me a chance to get my bearings. Deliciously cool out here, with some sunny breaks.

>86 scaifea: Thanks, Amber! I thought I was the only one who thought I was cute, while sleeping.

>87 Morphidae: Ain't that the truth Morph!

>88 LizzieD: Yah, for loving The Wind Up Bird! I was a fan too but just slightly preferred 1Q84.
And yes, boo to pussyfooters!!

Hiya Mark! Deliciously cool here in Missouri, too. I love this global warming! Can not remember a more pleasant day in mid-July which is when we get those record high temps set around here. I guess I'll head on back to the porch swing and think of you listening to Middlemarch. I've read it twice so won't be joining you on this one -- except in spirit.

MARK!!!! I have no idea how, but I somehow lost you here. Apologies, my friend, and I'm finally here! Sorry to hear you lost your old route, and I'm glad that the new one seems to be going well. So far, at least. ;)

Truth & Beauty will be on its way to you in about an hour! Remind me, when you leave for Booktopia again? Can't remember, but I think it's soon, at least from what Katie's been talking about.

>88 LizzieD: Peggy, a high of 69 in Chicagoland today. I'm wearing long sleeves and brought a light jacket with me today. Feels like October. Low of 51 tonight, I think. Very unseasonably cool. Feels good but I keep thinking "but this is supposed to be the hottest week of the year."

War and Peace in January? Perfect! It helped a lot to have fellow sufferers readers for Anna Karenina. Somehow I missed/forgot the January plans. Thank goodness we had some Levitation on hand to make up for it a bit.

Lovely fall day out there. As someone said, good day to go watch a football game. Hope the route screwups have gotten straightened out and today is better than yesterday for you.

Keira Knightly was profiled on CBS's Sunday Morning last week. Reference was made to the fact that her character has died in 7 of the last 10 films she's done...accompanied by video of her falling to her doom in Anna Karenina. At which point, my husband said "Oh, swell, I guess there's no point in reading the book now!". I thought he was making a Clever, but apparently he really did not know how Anna Karenina ends... The things you can still learn about a spouse after 40-odd years.

I thought he was making a Clever, but apparently he really did not know how Anna Karenina ends... The things you can still learn about a spouse after 40-odd years.

:-)

I have read several Murakami books and here is how I rank the novels - (at this point in my life.)

1. Kafka on the Shore
2. 1Q84
3. Wind-up Bird Chronicle
4. Norwegian Wood

I am not sure how I would rank the short story volumes. In general, I am not much of a fan of short stories, but that doesn't mean I don't like Murakami's volumes of short stories either. I just don't think they are in the same league as his novels. I can't wait for the new one to come out. The next Murakami on my TBR list is Wild Sheep Chase. It has been on my list for a long time and later this fall I will get around to it.

I just knew they were messing with your route because you are so good, they wanted to give you some challenge, for fear that you will be bored!

Norwegian Wood. That is one I'd like to read. Yes, I am still talking about Murakami :)
Sorry about your cluster fu....Mark :)
SNAFU with the re-jigging of the routes? I hope it settles!

I am chasing my tail to catch up on threads after 2 days absence. Sick kids to care for (not mine) and a manic day of birthdays (Lenny is 3, can you believe it?), a few random last minute errands and my first class for the new subject. Plus, my newly insomniac father is staying. All this is starting to sound like a B movie plot. Gotsta go for now. Happy beer drinking, and reading :)

>94 laytonwoman3rd: WAIT. Anna dies?!! :)

>99 lauralkeet: ROTFL!

>96 benitastrnad: Thanks for the Murakami ranking -- that may be helpful...

“I don't know myself, what to do, where to go... I lie in the crack of a book for my comfort... it's what the world offers... please leave me alone to dream as I fancy. ” — William H. Gass



- Karin Jurick

I've never read or heard of William H. Gass. That quote is from Omensetter's Luck. Anyone familiar with him? He looks like my cuppa...

>90 Donna828: Hi Donna! Glad to see you are enjoying the cool weather too! I am already 10 chapters into Middlemarch and I love it. I had a feeling that if my LT pals were huge fans, then it was going to work for me too.

>91 LauraBrook: Laura made it! Laura made it! Hooray! It's always good to see you, my friend and as long as we can touch base occasionally, I am a happy camper.

>92 lindapanzo: It was exactly 69 on my way home, Linda! I love it. Keep it coming.

>93 jnwelch: Hi Joe! What are your thoughts on W & P? This is your second time around, right?

>94 laytonwoman3rd: I can not lie, Linda, but I just read Anna Karenina for the first time, about 2 years ago and I did not know the ending, but somehow a spoiler slipped out and it was divulged. I didn't like her character anyway, so it was no big deal. LOL.

>95 Smiler69: Waves & Hugs to Ilana!

>96 benitastrnad: Thanks for sharing the Murakami list, Benita. I think I might agree with you on the first 2. After the Quake might be 3rd.

I plan on reading Hard-Boiled Wonderland before the new one comes out.

>97 maggie1944: You might have a point there, Karen! It bugs me too, that so many other routes were not even touched. WTH?

>94 laytonwoman3rd: Linda: Well, poop. That's ruined it for me, too. *sigh*

>103 scaifea: You know I love ya, Amber. But really? There's such a thing as a spoiler for a 140 year old book?

I may be in the minority but I loved Anna Karenina (the book), but hated the movie with Keira Knightley.

>98 LovingLit: I think Kafka on the Shore or Norwegian Wood are good places to start, Megan.

Lenny is going to be 3?? Wow! That's my boy.

>99 lauralkeet: Good one, Laura!

>103 scaifea: It didn't ruin it for me, Amber, if that's any consolation.

>105 brenzi: I had issues with "Anna", but I am glad I finally read it. Did not see the Knightley version. Was afraid to.

BTW- We are talking about doing War and Peace in January. Interested?

>104 Morphidae: I actually just read it for the first time (okay, for the ONLY time) last year, and I was surprised by the ending, Morphy. Somehow I had remained in the dark.

Getting caught up on several days' absence:

>24 msf59: The bastards!

>48 msf59:. Love the graphic

Generally Murakami: only read the one short story collection After the Quake which was enough to put me searching for more.

Thanks for the discussion. I'll be keeping an eye out.

Re: spoilers:

>108 michigantrumpet: Lucy!

I still haven't read AK...

Sorry to hear about the upheaval at work, Mark, and hope things settle back down soon to their normal routine. Don't they realize you have audio books piling up?? :)

The Leftovers was much better this week, imo. We'll see.

Do you watch Justified? I was late getting into it and am only up to the middle of season 2 but I love it.

72 today, so the lovely cool temps continue...Ahhhhhh. It's only about Middlemarch right now. I read the first 9 chapters and have started the 10th. I fell in love with her strong, tidy prose immediately. My only problem is finding my place in my print copy, but the upside to that is, I find myself rereading large passages. Smiles...

I NEED to update my GN reading, which has continued, (there is a stack next to my reading chair). I will try to catch up tonight.

>107 Crazymamie: I was happily in the dark too, Mamie!

>108 michigantrumpet: Well, thanks Marianne! I guess there is no reason to watch Citizen Kane now. Funny, I was going to watch it this weekend...kidding of course.
Keep up the Murakami. He does become addictive.

>110 Copperskye: I wish you could have joined us on AK! We had a good time with it. Maybe you'll be up for W & P? Grins...

"The Leftovers was much better this week". I completely agree Joanne! What a great acting job by the clergyman. Maybe it will find it's rhythm.
I watched and loved the first 4 seasons of Justified. I did not watch this past season. Season 2 was terrific. Enjoy!

>104 Morphidae: Morphy: Well, I haven't read the book, nor have I seen a movie adaptation, so, uh, yeah, I didn't know the ending. Mind, I'm not complaining about the 'spoiler' - it *is* a classic, after all. Plus, I have such a terribly memory that when I do finally get round to reading it, I'll have forgotten all about this...

ETA: Morning, Mark!

LOVE Justified! And Timothy Olyphant!

Morning Mark! That cartoon with Linus and Lucy made me laugh - too funny! Enjoy that lovely weather you're experiencing. Hoping that your route goes more smoothly today.

>112 scaifea: I have such a terribly memory that when I do finally get round to reading it, I'll have forgotten all about this

Oh, maaaaaaaan. Tell me about it!

>114 Morphidae: Morphy: Tell you about what, now?

(See what I did there?)

>115 scaifea: I saw what you did there.

>116 Morphidae: Did what where, now?

(Okay, I'm stopping now.)

Mark

So sorry that work is so unfair right now!!! Like you, I'm on a treadmill that just doesn't slow. I envision the sound of splat as I fly off the treadmill.

It seems those of us who are employed are working harder than ever. I'm not sure what's happening in today's economy.

Mark, I'm really pleased to see you're loving Middlemarch. I started reading it as part of an online (but not LT) group read, where we read chunks every month or so. That worked well at first but once I got into her style, and got caught up in the characters' lives, I had to forge ahead on my own.

OooooooK then. I must tell my husband he's in very good company re Anna K, and I'm heartily sorry, Amber, to have let the cat out of the bag, even if you don't mind and won't remember. (Neither will he, probably, if he ever decides to read another Russian novel and it happens to be that one.)

>99 lauralkeet: I was tempted to say "No....No not really. It was all just a DREAM sequence." But then there was that other conversation about people not knowing how the book ended, and I decided not to say that. At all.

I like Benita's shortlist for Murakami in >96 benitastrnad:, too, Mark. Like you, I might substitute in After the Quake for Norwegian Wood, and I might also switch places for 1Q84 and The Windup Bird Chronicle. Much as I liked 1Q84, The Windup Bird Chronicle for me was a knock-out.

I have a soft spot for all of his books, but I'd add Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World as #5. Can't wait for the new one!

W & P - I've only read half of it, and want to finish it. I can wait until January '15, no prob.

Loved your "didn't like her anyway" reaction re Anna Karenina. Me either.

Cluster FU**: Part Deux! It is like an old I Love Lucy episode, minus the humor...

I'll be back at break...

ETA- It is gorgeous out here!

>122 msf59: Uh oh. Sorry to hear that Mark.

I read AK three times. I have issues with it, but then it was one of the first really serious 'adult' books I read when I was 12 years old and so I guess I have a sort of emotional attachment to it. I'm not fond of all the politics and social upheaval stuff in it, and AK herself... it is kind of a relief when she decides to do herself in, I must say (apologies to my 12-year-old self, who thought this was the worst tragedy, ever), but I'll probably reread it again eventually all the same.

Looking forward to seeing how War and Peace goes...

I really do kind of envy you discovering Middlemarch for the first time, Mark. It was a rather enchanting experience for me.

>101 msf59: William H. Gass wrote, early in his career, some game-changing books like Omensetter's Luck and In the Heart of the Heart of the Country. Then he sat back and did it again and again.

But there are many lovely lines in the books, and the stories are involving, and the style can be perfectly, lyrically matched to the stories.

So sorry about the chaos at work, I remember hating that.

>112 scaifea: Waves &Hugs to Amber! Another glorious day...weather-wise of course.

>113 Crazymamie: Howdy Mamie! I also loved Justified, I just did not watch this last season for whatever reason.
Were you also a fan of Deadwood? Fingers tightly crossed...

>114 Morphidae: >117 scaifea: I enjoyed watching the Morphy & Amber Show. Better than You Tube!

>118 Whisper1: I have my minor complaints, Linda but they are nothing compared to your issues. Hugs to my pal.

>119 lauralkeet: I loved your thoughts on Middlemarch, Laura. I am so glad I can read it at my own pace. It would drive me NUTS to drag it out for weeks or months.

>120 laytonwoman3rd: It is so difficult to avoid spoilers with the classics and it is hard to walk around on hot coals, while discussing or mentioning the old timers. We'll just do our best.

>121 jnwelch: We can't get enough of that Murakami, can we Joe?

>125 msf59: It was rather "Who's on First"-ish wasn't it? :D

I have to confess that I thought Anna's fate was well enough known to end up as one of the questions on Jeopardy under a Trains category. But then, my assumption also may firmly mark me as a member of an over-educated elite?? I dunno. But clearly not over-read since I've yet to read Murakami!

>105 brenzi: Bonnie, I wasn't a fan of the Keira Knightley film either. It was all very fancy and creative, but for want of a better phrase, over-stylized. At least, for my taste. Would it work better as a mini-series?

War and Peace is one of those books, like Bleak House, that I've started many times and never got very far into it. Maybe a group next year might be just the thing.

>what Lindapanzo said. Me, too. January seems a good bit into the future and hoping my overly committed too stressed life will have adjusted itself, and I might just be game.

^Legs for days...

>106 msf59: I have the new translation of War and Peace that I picked up as a Kindle Deal earlier this year so I could join you in January Mark. OTOH January is when I start my new babysitting duties so IDK that I will want to take on a chunkster of that size.

I'm not sure why, if you loved the first four seasons of Justified you wouldn't have watched the latest but you missed a good one.

>127 Chatterbox: Yes Suzanne, overstylized is perfect. I detested Knightley's portrayal in a way that I never did in the book. A mini-series might work(with a different director).

>123 Smiler69: We had similar feelings about Anna Karenina, Ilana! I am glad I finally read it but honestly, did not see what the big deal was. Usually, I am pretty impressed with the classics...
I still want to read War and Peace, so we will see how that goes.

Middlemarch is wonderful. Masterful storytelling.

>124 richardderus: Thanks for chiming in on Mr. Gass, RD! I want to get my mitts on Omensetter's Luck. I wonder why he isn't better known? I guess you can say that about a lot of great authors.

>126 Morphidae: Grins!

>127 Chatterbox: I agree with you, Suz, on the fate of Anna. Actually, I was hoping someone would throw her under something.

>128 lindapanzo: >129 maggie1944: I hope both of you put War and Peace on the schedule. We would LOVE to have you along and if you want to start a couple weeks early...Go for it!!

I'd never read AK until last year's challenge, but from general knowledge I knew she met a sticky end. ;)

That didn't prevent me from cheering when it finally happened... at HOW it finally happened.

I was NOT a fan of AK. ;)

Mark, I'm so sorry about the route screw up!! :(

>131 brenzi: We would love to have you tag along, on War and Peace, Bonnie! Plus, during all the baby-sitting you will be doing, there will be some down-time: Babies sleep....well, we hope so anyway.

I don't know what happened to Justified. For some reason my DVR didn't record the last season and I never followed up. I might still, wander back...

>133 TinaV95: Good to see you, Tina! So there will be no W & P in your future? Hmmmmmmm?

Stopping by with hellos and to let you know that I am all for joining a group read of War and Peace in January 2015.... and I have had a good chuckle over the Anna Karenina discussion going on here!

>130 msf59: That was me on Sunday. Although I was on a porch, not a lawn, I was wearing shorts, my legs don't look nearly as good and they were propped up on a railing rather than another chair. Oh, and I had a bottle of water instead of tea. But otherwise, yeah... :-)

>134 msf59: Good morning Mark. Ha, babies sleep.
Our youngest daughter didn't sleep much (from 2am til 7.30am and nothing during the day for the first 16 months). My hubster an me were sleeping shift. What a family life it was. *shudder*

Morning, Mark!

>137 Ameise1: Barbara: It sounds like your daughter and Charlie had the same sleeping schedules...*shudder* indeed...

3 days down, 3 to go. Chugging along. 78 today. Smiles! It's all about Middlemarch right now. Thankfully, I am being swept along with it. She is a helluva storyteller.

I snagged 3 audios last night:

The Blue Star- Yes, finally!
Landline- Rowell is HOT right now!
Wayfaring Stranger- A new stand-alone (I think) by JLB. This looks good.

>135 lkernagh: Glad you are considering W & P for January, Lori! Now, I do not want everywhere disappearing come December, like frightened mice. LOL.

>136 Chatterbox: Hey, reclining on the porch, with a book, is always a wonderful thing, despite the bottle of water, (really?) LOL.

>137 Ameise1: Hi Barb! I was waiting for Bonnie's response on that one. Hope your week is going well.

I'm joining in on the group read for War and Peace. I was planning on tackling it next anyway.

Morning Mark! Hoping that the route goes better today. At least there is Middlemarch, right?! And *deep, deep sigh* I might join you for War and Peace - I have a lovely translation that I made it exactly half way through about three years ago. No promises, but if I feel inclined to revisit it in January, I will join you guys.

The Blue Star - you're going to like it, I'm sure. Looking forward to your reaction to the new Rowell. I sure liked her young adult books.

I've started To The Lighthouse. Very good, but woo, it's dense and demands close reading. After flying through Tom Sawyer, I've got to sharpen my reading chops for this one.

Morning Mark! I hope today is a better mail day and glad you are enjoying MM so much. I am currently betwixt books, a problem which will not last long I am sure!

>140 Morphidae: >141 Crazymamie: Add Morphy & Mamie to the W & P list! We are going to have a nice group and it is 5 months away. Sweeeeeet!
I am having a good day, despite some frustration this morning.

>142 jnwelch: I have To the Lighthouse in the stacks. It looks like we will have plenty of company for W & P.

>143 Berly: It is going swell, Kimmers! Hope yours is doing the same.

^Not much pool activity in the Chicagoland area, lately, but since we do not own a pool and seldom swim, it is no big deal..I wonder what the dog is reading...Beowulf? He is smiling, so it may be something lighter. Any other guesses?

I predict the dog is reading The Rosie Project! The cat is only pretending to be reading; really, it is thinking about how to best attack the dog without getting wet.

It is rippin' hot here in the Okanagan Valley. No pool either, but many gorgeous beaches minutes from home, and they have been earning their keep.

>146 lit_chick: Nancy, I think the Rosie Project is an excellent choice for the dog! I think the cat is reading Pet Sematary...

Hope it cools off for you guys.

>139 msf59: Yes, really! I almost never drink, because of the migraines and related medications. And my favorite summer drink is sparkling water. Instead of pricey Perrier, I picked up on sale some six-packs of both lemon flavored and lime-flavored Poland Spring sparkling water, and that's my go-to alternative to diet soda. Ice cold out of the fridge; fizzy and refreshing. No calories, no hangover and no migraine.

Mark, are you planning a general Murakami themed read for August, or only a group read for his new book? I captured another on last Sunday and one today. Building up to owning all of them! My friends and family know how to make me smile.

Well, I am about 300 pages into Middlemarch and in my edition, that is about a 1/3 in. This is a Big Boy, fortunately her story-telling is exquisite and keeps those pages turning. If I was only reading print, this could take me the rest of the summer...

Happy Friday, for those of you who are wrapping up the week. I am not included in that...Long Face.

>148 Chatterbox: "No calories, no hangover and no migraine." Sounds reasonable to me, Suz. Have a great weekend.

>149 AuntieClio: Can't get enough of that Murakami love, Stephanie! Nothing planned for August. If we do a Group Read of the new one, that won't be until October or so. Everyone will have to track a copy down first. That is one I will probably pre-order.

Glad you are liking Middlemarch. I plan to start it next week.

>150 msf59: How are you getting past the purple prose? I could only bear a few chapters of it.

Despite the trials & tribulations of work, it has been such a gorgeous week, weather-wise. Very Happy Camper!

>151 banjo123: Looking forward to your thoughts on Middlemarch, Rhonda!

>152 Morphidae: That will have to be another one, we will disagree on, Morphy. I find nothing "purple" about her prose. Her writing is strong and deft. She might also, be one of the smartest writers I have read.
That said, it's not always a smooth read, she gets "heavy" sometimes, so it might not be for everyone but if you lock in, you are rewarded endlessly.
Hugs to my pal!

We're talking about the book that starts with this paragraph, right?

"Miss Brooke had that kind of beauty which seems to be thrown into relief by poor dress. Her hand and wrist were so finely formed that she could wear sleeves not less bare of style than those in which the Blessed Virgin appeared to Italian painters; and her profile as well as her stature and bearing seemed to gain the more dignity from her plain garments, which by the side of provincial fashion gave her the impressiveness of a fine quotation from the Bible,--or from one of our elder poets,--in a paragraph of to-day's newspaper. She was usually spoken of as being remarkably clever, but with the addition that her sister Celia had more common-sense. Nevertheless, Celia wore scarcely more trimmings; and it was only to close observers that her dress differed from her sister's, and had a shade of coquetry in its arrangements; for Miss Brooke's plain dressing was due to mixed conditions, in most of which her sister shared. The pride of being ladies had something to do with it: the Brooke connections, though not exactly aristocratic, were unquestionably "good:" if you inquired backward for a generation or two, you would not find any yard-measuring or parcel-tying forefathers--anything lower than an admiral or a clergyman; and there was even an ancestor discernible as a Puritan gentleman who served under Cromwell, but afterwards conformed, and managed to come out of all political troubles as the proprietor of a respectable family estate. Young women of such birth, living in a quiet country-house, and attending a village church hardly larger than a parlor, naturally regarded frippery as the ambition of a huckster's daughter. Then there was well-bred economy, which in those days made show in dress the first item to be deducted from, when any margin was required for expenses more distinctive of rank. Such reasons would have been enough to account for plain dress, quite apart from religious feeling; but in Miss Brooke's case, religion alone would have determined it; and Celia mildly acquiesced in all her sister's sentiments, only infusing them with that common-sense which is able to accept momentous doctrines without any eccentric agitation. Dorothea knew many passages of Pascal's Pensees and of Jeremy Taylor by heart; and to her the destinies of mankind, seen by the light of Christianity, made the solicitudes of feminine fashion appear an occupation for Bedlam. She could not reconcile the anxieties of a spiritual life involving eternal consequences, with a keen interest in gimp and artificial protrusions of drapery. Her mind was theoretic, and yearned by its nature after some lofty conception of the world which might frankly include the parish of Tipton and her own rule of conduct there; she was enamoured of intensity and greatness, and rash in embracing whatever seemed to her to have those aspects; likely to seek martyrdom, to make retractations, and then to incur martyrdom after all in a quarter where she had not sought it. Certainly such elements in the character of a marriageable girl tended to interfere with her lot, and hinder it from being decided according to custom, by good looks, vanity, and merely canine affection. With all this, she, the elder of the sisters, was not yet twenty, and they had both been educated, since they were about twelve years old and had lost their parents, on plans at once narrow and promiscuous, first in an English family and afterwards in a Swiss family at Lausanne, their bachelor uncle and guardian trying in this way to remedy the disadvantages of their orphaned condition."

I got to the end of that paragraph just now and could not tell you what it was about other than something about clothes and that there are two orphan sisters. Does the writing get any clearer?

>154 Morphidae: I'm with Mark on this one, Morphy. That paragraph reminds me how much I love that book, and Dorothea is such a great character! The writing style can be challenging, but to me it's so beautiful. As Mark says, "if you lock in, you're rewarded endlessly".

And good morning, Mark! You've got more wonderful weather to enjoy today. I'm getting out in it soon for a lunchtime stroll. Sorry that you're working tomorrow, but on the other hand, you'll be out in more of this weather before it passes us by.

Well, you two must be smarter than me then because I've read that paragraph three times now and only get about two-thirds of it. I'd have to Google or ask someone about the rest.

ETA: I'm not arguing with you all. I'm just frustrated. I WANT to join the group read and I can't because of the inability to "get" the writing.

I think I'll fall between the guys and you Morphy. It would not be a book I would be happy reading currently with my very busy life. I had to slow myself down to read the paragraph. But I could see myself loving it on long summer days, when all I really needed to do was to eat a bite here and then, and afterwards read for long relaxing hours. That paragraph could transport me to a different place, and a different time. And I could stay for quite a bit, maybe all the way through the book.

But now, I've got to get up and get going. Therefore, the books in my life are suffering from neglect.

Morphy, I kind of agree with both sides of this argument. I think George Eliot writes fantastic stories, but her writing is very difficult to get through. It's quite heavy.

So sorry your Friday isn't a *Friday*. Wishing you happy reading nevertheless, Mark!

"Dense" is the word I would use for George Eliot's prose. Not purple, because that implies excessively flowery, fraught with overblown emotion. Lots of words doesn't necessarily mean purple prose. As Karen says, I have to be in the right mood and circumstances to enjoy a read like that, but when it's what I want, I love it.

Could someone explain this sentence to me? This is the one that made me thing "purple prose." It's overwrought. Maybe because I simply don't understand it.

"Her mind was theoretic, and yearned by its nature after some lofty conception of the world which might frankly include the parish of Tipton and her own rule of conduct there; she was enamoured of intensity and greatness, and rash in embracing whatever seemed to her to have those aspects; likely to seek martyrdom, to make retractations, and then to incur martyrdom after all in a quarter where she had not sought it."

-Jeffrey T. Larson

^What a gorgeous summer painting! And hey look: No busty babes or beer love! See! I can flex my cultural pecs now and then...

>154 Morphidae: You do a fine job presenting your case, Morphy! LOL. That would have taken me an hour to type. I LOVE that passage and unfortunately I am not smart or articulate enough to break it down. I wish I was an English Major, with a silver tongue! It just sweeps me along, is all I can say and I am all thumbs trying to explain it.

>161 Morphidae: That passage is particularly dense, I agree. The author is deeply intellectual and some of it goes over my head too, but I move on and savor something else. Her skillful storytelling skills can not be denied.

I understand your frustration, Morphy. I have read stuff that is beyond my grasp, I just accept the fact, bookmark it to try again or jettison it and move on to the multitudes of books, I WILL ENJOY!

^ I stopped at Whole Foods on the way home and saw this: Victory Dirt Wolf Double IPA and thought: I want to try that. I LOVE Double IPAs!! It's pretty good. 6.7 out of 10.

Victory Brewery Company is located in Downington PA!

Hey Mark, Downingtown is just up the road from me, maybe 30-45min ... In case you're thinking of visiting that brewery!

Maybe THIS THREAD will help you decipher Middlemarch. When I read it in 2010, Becky and Lucy did an amazing job conducting the GR. It was more like a tutored read and was incredibly valuable for me as I made my way through the book. It may be my favorite book ever.

All this talk about Middlemarch makes me think that there is a group read going in this thread. I will join Karen and say that this kind of book is good, but it is the type of book I just don't want to take the time to read right now.

I am still working on the second volume of David Copperfield. That is not a bad book, but it just takes too much effort to read.

>163 msf59: That would have taken me an hour to type.

Lots of places have it online. I think I got it from Gutenberg.

>156 Morphidae:, >157 maggie1944: But I could see myself loving it on long summer days, when all I really needed to do was to eat a bite here and then, and afterwards read for long relaxing hours. That paragraph could transport me to a different place, and a different time. And I could stay for quite a bit, maybe all the way through the book.

I could see it transporting me right to sleep. Sorry, I'm with Morphy on this ~ I tried reading it awhile back and got maybe about 50 pages in, but I didn't like the characters who seemed TSTL, and thought the writing soporific, and that's all the patience I had for it. Perhaps someday, but probably not.

I would be amenable to having Middlemarch lovers try and convince me otherwise.

ETA that I just love the pic in >162 msf59:!

>161 Morphidae: "She dreamed big dreams, sought big ideas, and made bold gestures that usually backfired on her big time."

>162 msf59: Beautiful! Love the volume in the rocks and water and trees...feels very *present* to me.

Happy Saturday! I wrap up my work week today and can look forward to the next 2 days off. 81, mostly sunny. Should be a good one. I hope to end the day, in the 2nd half of Middlemarch.

>155 jnwelch: Morning Joe! It looks like we are having more issues with Middlemarch than Tolstoy. You never know, right? Fortunately, it is working for me.

>157 maggie1944: I can understand having to be in the right frame of mind, for Middlemarch but once I am in, I like to stay put and finish it.

>158 The_Hibernator: Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Rachel. Fortunately her more "dense" passages are relatively brief and she moves on. LOL.

>159 michigantrumpet: At least today is my Friday, Marianne! LOL. And I am off Monday! Sweet!

>160 laytonwoman3rd: Excellent explanation, Linda! I do not find any of her prose flowery.

>165 lauralkeet: If I ever make it through that part of PA, I surely will. You are not a big beer drinker are you, Laura?

>166 brenzi: That would have been the best way to read through, Middlemarch, Bonnie. Personally, I am having no problems with the narrative but a tutored read would have enriched the experience.

>167 benitastrnad: Great point, Benita! This Middlemarch discussion should be happening over there. You are still reading DC? LOL!

>168 Morphidae: And I was picturing you grinding away on your keyboard, Morphy. LOL.

>169 Storeetllr: At least you gave Middlemarch a try, Mary. That is really all you can do. I can try to convince you to read it, but if it is not "your thing", well, it's not "your thing". Maybe, you could pick it up again, down the road.

>170 richardderus: See, RD? You nailed it, in a few brief words. My little mind does not work like that. LOL.

Just checking in :) I seem to have finally hit a bit of a roll with Connecticut Yankee, though it's put me off reading anything Arthurian for a while since it would all seem parody... About 100 pages left but it's no longer grinding me down and I'm sort of enjoying it.

Already thinking about August Roth - I haven't read any of his so it'll all be the first of the American Author challenge authors who is wholly new to me.

>171 msf59: no, not a big beer drinker at all, actually! Wine's more my thing, but I can enjoy the occasional beer.

>170 richardderus: yes, and yes! Richard, that was brilliant.

A tutored read of Middlemarch is a great idea. You're going to want a breather after finishing it, Mark, but down the road, I'd re-read it for that. I've loved the Austen tutored reads and the one for Shakespeare's Sonnets.

There's probably a good annotated Middlemarch out there, too.

We're just lazing here at Casa Welch after going to the Farmer's Market and getting coffee and chai. Hope your last working day of the week is okay, and then you can kick back.

>161 Morphidae: You are a tough one, Morphy! Thank goodness we have >170 richardderus: to help us all out. Otherwise, I might have had to concede this point to you! Maybe I just will anyway. I'm always eager to encourage people to read things outside their comfort zones (especially when the "things" are favorites of mine), but I'm also a strong proponent of reading what you want to read, and not what you feel you "ought" to read. When I urge others to give a particular book a chance, it's because I really feel they could enjoy the experience, not that I feel it would be "good for them" to do so.

Mark, I wish you a fabulous weekend.

My Saturday work days are not bad, with many of my business stops closed and the volume generally lighter. I have to space out my time and being an old pro, I can usually handle that.

>172 BekkaJo: Good to see you Bekka and glad to see you knocked out your Twain. I have not read much Roth but I will try The Plot Against America. He seems to be another polarizing author, so this should be interesting.

>173 lauralkeet: Hopefully, if I ever make it through your part of PA, you'll be ready for that occasional beer. LOL!

>175 jnwelch: Morning Joe! Glad to see you have a kickback day, at the Casa Welch. I would love to see an annotated copy of Middlemarch. Why couldn't I have thought of that before?

>176 laytonwoman3rd: I really enjoyed your Morphy comments, Linda!

>177 Ameise1: Love the gorgeous sunflowers, Barb! Have a great day.

>163 msf59: some of it goes over my head too, but I move on and savor something else

This might be one of my issues. I'm just a bit (HA!) compulsive and must understand *everything* I read. Just the first few pages would have taken me at least an hour while I looked up words and read and re-read until I understood it and asked people what certain sentences meant.*

>170 richardderus: *Thanks, RD. After I read what you wrote, I can see what was meant. But I couldn't get there on my own. Maybe I could do Middlemarch if I had a Richard Derus translation!

>176 laytonwoman3rd: There's challenges and then there's, "Oh dear heavens, this will take me years!" LOL. I do take pride in that I am reading Great Expectations and am enjoying it when I detested it in 6th grade since it was the book (or rather the teacher that had us read and "analyze" it) that put me off classics for two decades.

>179 Morphidae: *shudder* I'd be long dead and cold in my grave before I'd take that one on.

And Morphy dearest, do not ever so much as pick up The Faerie Queene. You will combust.

>180 richardderus: So we can't count on you to host a tutored read of The Faerie Queens, Richard the dearest?

>181 msf59: Sooner I would die, thank you please.

I had a feeling that might be your response. LOL!

It never occurred to me that George Elliot's prose was convoluted in Middlemarch until today. I listened to the audiobook narrated by Juliet Stevenson and to be frank, I didn't read past the first sentence in the paragraph Morphy posted in >154 Morphidae: because of a migraine which makes reading lots of text on the screen a painful experience, but I do think that audiobooks are great for making dense text that much more easier to grasp, something which I would never have expected until I became a regular listener.

Happy Saturday, Mark!! That paragraph clinches it -- Middlemarch is out for me right now. I am too frazzled with RL; I currently do not have the patience to allow her prose in. But don't let me stop your warbling. ;)

>180 richardderus: Ha! That made me laugh.

>184 Smiler69: That might be a good idea in the future. I may give audio a try.

That paragraph of Middlemarch is making me regret not joining your group read, Mark, but I just can't fit it in right now. But it's definitely on the TBR list.

Thanks for coming to visit the invalid's thread this past week. I am desperately trying to catch up everywhere, and I'm sorry to hear your new route has thrown a few bumps in your path. I join you in rejoicing in this completely uncharacteristic weather — so lovely to have the windows open without the A/C humming!

>184 Smiler69: I think you have a great point, Ilana! Listening to the audio or switching back in forth, like I am doing, sure makes it flow easier. Over 540 pages so far and no complaining out of me.

>185 Berly: >187 rosalita: Yes, Middlemarch is a commitment and yes it is long and sometimes challenging but I am very glad I finally picked it up. It's revered status, shines through for me. Of course, it might not be your cuppa, but you should know that within the first 50 pages.

>186 Morphidae: Finding an annotated edition, like Joe suggested, would also come in handy. I wish I would have thought of it.

>187 rosalita: I hope the invalid, is back up and running. We miss our pals, when they are in hiding. BTW- Thanks again for the nudge to experiment with Spotify. I've been sampling it a lot lately.

**I think I found another MSF Feature: Marky-Mark's Chunky Classics! Sounds catchy, doesn't it? Next up: War and Peace- Jan 2015.

^I am a beer bottle kind of guy, from way back, but the past couple of years, many of my favorite brews are coming in cans, so I have learned to adjust. Hey, it's what is in the container, that counts, right? This is Two Brothers Sidekick. Light & crisp, slightly hoppy. Perfect summer fare. Two Brothers is located in Warrenville IL, about 20 minutes west of here. They have a nice restaurant there too, with good chow.

We are going out to our Wii bowling event, where the bowling is an after-thought but the beer and the socializing are not. It looks like another beautiful evening.

I finally reviewed The Goldfinch in my thread...post #193.

^Happy Sunday morning!!

>190 richardderus: Thanks, RD! I will check it out...

Hope you're enjoying your weekend, Mark. Middlemarch on!

Alex Ada Volume 1 by Jonathan Luna 4.2 stars

Alex is a twenty-something business professional. Still reeling from a failed relationship, he is lonely and despondent. On his birthday, his grandmother presents him with Ada, an X5, a top of the line, android. She is beautiful and subservient but Alex wants more out of a companion, which leads him into taking some risky and dangerous measures...
The artwork here is gorgeous and the writing is smart and fluid. This is the first volume and I am looking forward to following Alex & Ada, on their further adventures. Highly recommended.



**I received this through NetGalley. It will not be released until the end of the month.

>193 msf59: You've got me intrigued, Mark! Amazon doesn't have it available yet - how did you get your copy?

I like Two Brothers Sidekick a lot. I first tried it when I asked the store's beer steward (well, dedicated professional beer consumer behind the counter) to recommend a "citrus-y" one for the warm weather. This was it. Very tasty.

Hope you had a good time at the bowling get-together.

>192 Smiler69: I got my outside chores done, Ilana, now it is time for some R & R. While I am at home, I am going to read my Penguin edition of Middlemarch. It's a beauty.
I hope you are having a good one too.

>194 jnwelch: I should have mentioned it, in my mini-review for Alex + Ada Volume One, I received this through NetGalley and it won't be released for another week or so. It's a keeper though.
Sidekick is a good "starter" beer, before moving on to something heavier. I've also been enjoying Capital "Lake House", which is also in cans, light and citrusy. You would like it.

Popping in with my Sunday hello!

Sunday Movie Night:



^The Lego Movie was sooooooooooo good!! If you want to watch a fun, fast 90 minutes, check this one out. I dare you to stop smiling...

>196 Berly: Waves & Hugs to Kimmers!

Wait...how old are your kids? Mine refuse to go. They are just old enough that this movie would just not be cool.

>197 msf59: LOL! My wife and I watched it on DVD. It was a blast. My son and his girlfriend are watching it now. There are so many cool old movie and culture references, from superheroes to Hans Solo and Gandalf.

>145 msf59: LOL the dog....reading Beowulf.....oh Mark.

I liked the Lego movie too Mark! The political underover tones were fantastic.

- Angela Moulton

Happy Monday! I only say this on my day off! Yah, me! I am going to go for a bike ride early, before it heats up, then food shopping and a couple other errands. And then hopefully, my afternoon, or a good chunk of it, will be with Middlemarch. I am over the 600 page mark now. There is daylight, even if it is only a sliver.

>200 LovingLit: There is nothing better than watching a fun, fresh, entertaining little film. This could be up there with the Toy Story movies. Okay, maybe not, but in the same ballpark. Hope you had a good weekend, Megan.

Enjoy your day off! Such a delightful part of the week!

Man, we're on the same psychic wavelength, Mark, or maybe it's the proximity to Lake Michigan. We watched The Lego Movie last night, too, and got a big kick out of it. It rocketed along, and had that subversive humor we'd heard about. Who would've guessed? A lego movie had such potential to be a straight to video throwaway, seems like.

Hope you have a great first day off. Hotter, but still a nice one out there.

One movie critic said that this movie was made for adults - not kids, as kids wouldn't get the humor in it. Was he right?

Okay, bike ride done, (good workout) and now onto the store...

>202 maggie1944: Morning Karen! Monday is always my favorite day off, better than Saturday and then Tuesday is generally our lightest day. Win, Win!

>203 jnwelch: Like minds, my friends! I remember reading a glowing review of The Lego Movie when it first came out and have wanted to see it ever since. It did not disappoint. Wasn't Batman, (Will Arnett) a hoot?
I just closed the house up and turned on the air. It looks like this HOT stretch will be brief, just like I like 'em.

>204 benitastrnad: The non-stop gab in the movie is definitely geared for the adults but the fast-paced, nonstop action will please the kiddies. And no cheap jokes either, which I admired. It's a keeper.

Enjoy your day off, Mark. Looks like it's going to be a hot one. We've got our ice cream social at work today.

I hunted around and pulled out my copy of Burial Rites. I don't know if I will get to it this summer, but I will try to bookhorn it in for the fall.

Happy new week, Mark.

Have you started on Afterlife with Archie yet? I was so tempted to get it yesterday when I was a the bookstore, but I was so afraid I'd cry. I grew up reading Archie and I cannot bear to think of his not only having grown up a little but also his death.

“Life is a lot more fragile than we think. So you should treat others in a way that leaves no regrets. Fairly, and if possible, sincerely.”

― Haruki Murakami, Dance Dance Dance



^ETA_ I have not read this yet. WTH??

Public service announcement:



Downpour audiobook service is offering the audio of Of Mice and Men for 5.95. It's a steal:

http://www.downpour.com/downpour-deals

^If you have not read this Steinbeck classic, Tell No One and get yourself a copy quick.

I like the "if possible"...be fair, though, even if you can't be sincere!

>206 lindapanzo: Thanks Linda! Trying to spend the rest of the afternoon with Middlemarch. I hope you enjoy the ice cream social.

>207 benitastrnad: I loved Burial Rites, Benita and I see no reason why you shouldn't either. At least you have a copy and now I have heard it will developed into a film.

>208 cameling: Happy week to you, Caro! Yes, I knocked out Afterlife with Archie in one or 2 sittings. It was a lot of fun, but also dark, creepy and spooky.

>210 laytonwoman3rd: I like that part too, Linda!

I have to read another Murakami! And watch the Lego movie. So many things to do....

>212 Berly: ... so little time ;-)

Morning! Hot & humid today, but it looks fleeting and the comfortable stuff will return tomorrow. I am happy with this arrangement.

I am having iPod/iTunes issues, so it looks like I will be not be able to continue Middlemarch on audio, (BOO!!). Fortunately, I am on the homestretch, with about 200 pages left. I might switch (on audio) to Life on the Mississippi, since that was up next.

>212 Berly: >213 AuntieClio: Waves & Hugs to Kimmers & Stephanie! Yes, we definitely need an extra day tacked on...

not caught up.... just a quick hello ....

Mark - thanks for your visits to my place during my extended absences. Just about caught up buddy and very impressed that you're on the cusp of 100 books read already and with some weighty tomes included too.
Hope that it is not too stifling walking around the windy city today.

Just finished reading Spice Necklace, a travel book about the eastern Caribbean. This one provided me with some easy reading moments before dropping off to sleep at night. It wasn't boring, but was pleasant and full of pleasant thoughts about people and far away places. A Goodnight Moon for a grown-up sliding off to sleep. I will start Ysabel tonight. I have been wanting to read another Guy Gavriel Kay book and this one was available in the library so I nabbed it.

Midday check in: Very warm but not oppressive...at least not yet. A breeze helps.

>215 mckait: Good to see you Kath! Thanks for checking in.

>216 PaulCranswick: Good to see you, Paul. Thanks for finding time in your busy schedule to stop by and say hi.

>217 benitastrnad: Thanks for the book update. Looking forward to your thoughts on the Kay. I NEED to read more of his work.

What a shame to have the Middlemarch audio punk out on you so close to the end, Mark! Although I loved reading it in print.

I'm in the home stretch with To the Lighthouse. This has been a read of respect rather than love. Beautiful writing, but makes me think of Proust, with not a whole lot happening. Still, she does a remarkable job of giving the interior perspectives of a multitude of characters.

The 9th Longmire was another gripping one, although Walt plays awfully fast and loose with the legal requirements, much more so than in previous volumes. Now I've got to find out what happens in the next one with the ongoing storylines. Oh, he's a clever guy, this Craig Johnson.

>214 msf59: I would be devastated with the audio issues. Hope they work themselves through. Had a problem downloading an audiobook from the library a couple weeks ago and was in a funk for a week.

I was going to ask you if you're enjoying Dance Dance Dance, Mark. Have you started it yet? I haven't read this one either but I do have it in my obese wish list.

>219 jnwelch: Beautiful writing, but makes me think of Proust, with not a whole lot happening.
Huh. I hadn't made that connection, Joe. I've read To the Lighthouse, and I just finished the second volume of Proust. I agree there are stylistic similarities. The one thing Woolf's book has going for it though: it's short!

>222 lauralkeet: LOL! Proust ain't, Laura, that's for sure. Kudos to you for finishing two volumes. I've waked around the bottom of that mountain, but haven't climbed it yet.

I am jealous of your weather. It is hot and humid here. The forecast was for rain, but it just keeps holding off instead of letting loose with the raindrops. At least it is cloudy.

*still talking about Lego movie*
I cracked up laughing when Emmet went into the generic chain coffee shop (ie Starbucks) and ordered a coffee, the smiley assistant said, that'll be $35 thanks! And he replied "that's awesome", in happy acceptance of the inflated price.

And, I still walk around the house here saying in *that voice* Lennnnnyyyyy....wheeere are my (insert item I am looking for here- not usually pants). Eta: and this is always followed by an eye-roll from Wilbur, who says "mum, I know what you are really saying". LOL!

Skimming through to catch up... Lego Movie!! We love it here at Scaife Manor. Everything Is Awesome is sort of our motto, really...

Of course, I have slowed down considerably on Middlemarch, since only relying on print, but the book continues to engage and that is all that matters. It is a master-course on storytelling. There are 8 parts to this book and I am on 7.

On audio, I switched to Life on the Mississippi and managed to listen to a healthy chunk. It has some dry spots but it is still very good and his time piloting a steamboat on the Mighty Miss, is highly enjoyable.

>219 jnwelch: What was freaky about the iPod debacle, was that I was listening to it on a borrowed iPod and Middlemarch froze up and I could not continue and then my everyday iPod is not working with iTunes, so I can't add anything to it. Is it a conspiracy or what? Come on, I am lovable guy, right?
I'll still have to give To the Lighthouse a try one of these days.

>220 michigantrumpet: You can see my comments to Joe up there, Marianne. It is very frustrating. Fortunately I have several audiobooks loaded on my regular player, so I should be good, until I get this sorted out.

>221 cameling: Sadly, I have not read Dance Dance Dance, Caro and worst yet, I don't own a copy. WTH? I saw the quote on FB and HAD to share it.

>222 lauralkeet: No Proust for me yet, Laura! Opinion seems to be divided...

>224 benitastrnad: Today was hot and uncomfortable but tomorrow will be only 75. Can you say: BLISS??

>225 LovingLit: I LOVE your thoughts on Lego the Movie and Wilbur's eye-rolling. LOL. What a treat that film is, just as fun for adults as kids.

>226 scaifea: More LEGO MOVIE LOVE! More LEGO MOVIE LOVE! Was Charlie able to follow most of it? I know most of that nonstop chatter would zoom right past most kids.

“True, he had dreamy visions of possibilities: there is no human being who having both passions and thoughts does not think in consequence of his passions - does not find images rising in his mind which soothe the passion with hope or sting it with dread.”

- Middlemarch

Okay, after tinkering and trouble-shooting, last night, I did get my issues with my iPod resolved, so I am back in the game. I can't return to my original audio version of Middlemarch but was able to find a digital one through my library. This one pales next to Juliet Stevenson's version but what can one do? I will put aside the Twain for a day or 2 and finish this up.

After a hot & muggy day, it will be cool and 74 today. Big Ass Smile!!

>229 msf59: Ha! That's quite a Big Ass smile! Try being gloomy with that guy around!

I finished and reviewed To the Lighthouse, so you can see what I thought of it, Mark. I'm now on Gathering Blue, the second in the Giver quartet. Debbi loved each and every one, and highly recommends them. I also read a shorty Longmire called "Christmas n Absaroka County" which had four good short stories pieced together. Now I've got Tattoo: A Pepe Carvalho Mystery teed up on the Kindle, a Spanish mystery from the series that inspired Camilleri to write his Montalbano series.

Having an okay time with the gn Seconds, but still waiting for it to take off like the Scott Pilgrim books did.

What a knockout day out there! Enjoy it, compadre.

Hi Joe! I've been meaning to get to Gathering Blue also. I might reread the first one, before the film comes out.
Tattoo sounds interesting.
I should be wrapping up Middlemarch soon. It is amazing.

Morning Mark!!! Glad you got the audible issue resolved. Home stretch with Middlemarch--have fun!

Oh, I'm sorry you had to downgrade from La Stevenson, Mark. Of course no one compares to her. I've picked up countless books just because she's the one narrating them. I'm even considering picking up recordings of French translations she does, again, just because it's her, though on principle I don't read/listen to French books in translation because it doesn't make sense to read my mother tongue in translation, does it? Anyway, I sympathise. But good going on Middlemarch, you really ploughed through it!

Hot hot hot hot here too. OOf! Attic room becoming a problem for sleep :/

Glad you are enjoying Middlemarch - I enjoyed it too.

My hubby is becoming a Lego movie nag - it's not that I don't want to watch it, I do! It's just that by the time we sit down to watch a film I'll prob fall asleep before the end! But everything is Awesome...

>228 msf59: It was the first (and only so far) movie that Charlie has seen in a movie theater, and he was enraptured with it. We, of course, bought it the second it came out on DVD, and he has large chunks of the dialogue memorized. Lots of it is over his head, though, of course, but those are the parts that make it so very watchable for the non-kids... I have to admit, though, that my own favorite parts are not terribly wordy or 'adult' - Emmett in the Wild West busting into the tavern and shouting, "shoot shoot bullet bullet gun!" and pretty much anything Batman says, but especially his, "First try!" after taking forever to hit a target. *snork!*)

Mark, I am slowly building up a lovely Murakami collection. Received Norwegian wood yesterday as part of a gift.

#230
I have all of the Pepe Carvalho mysteries. I ordered them last Christmas when Mellville House had a giant fire sale on their international mysteries. I also picked up all of the Jacob Arjouni mysteries at the same time. I think I got 10 books for $50.00. It was great. Now I just have to read them.

Both of these authors were discussed in that BBC podcast series called "Foreign Bodies: An Investigations Into European Detectives." That darn series of podcasts hit me with some big book bullets.

>162 msf59:, Mark, you and Joe find such interesting art work images!

^ I finished Middlemarch! I finished Middlemarch! This is such a great book. Yes, it is a commitment but it is so worth it. Nothing like reading a beloved classic and it completely measures up. I know you've been dead for over a 130 years, but good job, Mary Ann Evans!!

>232 Berly: Hi Kimmers! Yes, without my audio copy, it would have taken me another couple of days to finish Middlemarch.

>233 Smiler69: Hi Ilana! At least I was able to listen to the majority of Middlemarch, helmed by Juliet Stevenson. The 2nd reader wasn't bad though, just not quite as strong.

>234 BekkaJo: Hope it cools off for you Bekka! It was absolutely delicious here today. Sorry, to rub it in. And yes, WATCH The Lego Movie! It is a blast!

>235 scaifea: Sounds like Charlie is a sharp little guy. I am glad he enjoyed it. That one will go down as a classic.

>236 AuntieClio: Can't get enough of that Murakami love, Stephanie! I loved Norwegian Wood and I have a keeper copy. I plan on reading, at least 2 more this year, including his new one, which comes out this fall.

>237 benitastrnad: I'll have to try one of the Pepe Carvalho mysteries and see if I would like it. You haven't read one yet, have you?

Did you finally open up all your ALA books?

>238 Whisper1: Great to see you, Linda! I also LOVE the painting in #162!!

I'm glad you were able to finish Middlemarch and that it continued to be a hit for you. I'm looking forward to reading it someday, since I have it waiting patiently on my e-reader.

And hooray for nice weather returning, eh? It was quite livable out there today.

I'm waiting for the heatwave out my way to break ... it's getting so that it's almost too hot to read.

Yay for Middlemarch! So glad you enjoyed it.

>240 rosalita: I think Middlemarch is a Must Read, Julia. If tackling it in print is to daunting, try print/audio. It worked like a dream.

>241 cameling: We had a one day heat wave and now it is back in the 70s. Yes, I am smiling.
Hope it cools off for you.

>242 lauralkeet: Thanks, Laura! It was a nearly flawless classic. Sure you could have trimmed a bit here and there, but she kept you turning the pages, right until the end.

Congratulations on finishing the beast!! Glad you thought the effort was well worth it. : )

WooHoo for Middlemarch! I'll get there someday...

^I think that would would make a nice name for our library/pub, don't you think so?

Sunny & 75 today. Keep 'em coming, weather gods...

I will continue the audio of Life on the Mississippi, my 2nd Twain of the month. I will also start the Lobster Kings, an E.R. I received and one that I heard a very glowing review on. Stay tuned...

>244 Berly: Thanks, Kimmers! Yes, I climbed that biblio-mountain and I am quite pleased with myself. LOL.

Yes, Sweet Thursday is a great name for a good hang out place. I'm delighted you are having so much fun with your reading, and books, and audio. I'm getting a taste of the reading while working world. Had another "shift" with Instacart, sitting in the grocery store parking lot, reading my book, and listening to a new audio. The audio was perfect when the light began to fade at the end of my shift, and there really was not enough light for reading. The whole thing reminded me of some of my "good ole days" sitting in the line for the ferry when I lived on Vashon Island. We could have well over an hour of waiting many days, and it was great reading time.

I am ready to start book 3 of Pat Barker's Regeneration trilogy.

>243 msf59: Tackling Middlemarch in print is not at all daunting. I simply don't have time to devote to it right now. I'm sure I will someday.

Hi Mark! Just stopping by to see what you're up to. Congratulations on completing Middlemarch!

Sweet Thursday is a great name for a pub. It always feels like we can make it (for those of us with Monday through Friday gigs) once we get this far. I hate wishing my life away but getting to Friday each week is SO great.

We are getting some much-needed rain yesterday and today. Yesterday it was a steady hard rain for much of the day, today it's a more classing Pacific Northwest drizzle. Whatever. If it soaks the gardens and helps control some of the horrific fires we're having in the central part of the state, I'm fine with getting my shoes a bit damp.

I realize that I need to remind myself who we're reading in August for the AAC. I am skipping July but I think I was planning to participate for the remaining months of 2014.

You certainly seem to be enjoying your reading and listening these days, Mark! That is way cool. :-)

Good morning, Mark! Sweet Thursday is really sweet this week, isn't it? Don't pinch me; I want to keep dreaming in this weather.

Congrats on finishing Middlemarch! What a great reading experience, eh? Mary Ann had the goods, all right.

I know nada about The Lobster Kings, so I'll look forward to your comments on that one. I'm liking very much the second Giver book, Gathering Blue. Nice change of pace with the simple YA language after the challenging To the Lighthouse.

Sunshine. Nice breeze. Good books. Big smile.

>247 maggie1944: I am torn between Sweet Thursday or The Warbler. Both would make perfect biblio-pub monikers.
Glad you are enjoying the Barker trilogy. I will have to get back to those.

>248 rosalita: Some of the narrative is a bit dense and she does get gabby at times but the rewards easily make up for these minor lapses. I hope you get to it some day, Julia.

>249 EBT1002: Great to see you, Ellen. Glad things have cooled off and you are getting some rain.
Philip Roth will be our August author and I hope to get the thread up and running tonight, if I do not get distracted.
Any plans on visiting Chicago?

>250 jnwelch: We sure love our Sweet Thursday, don't we, Joe? I think I am going to love The Lobster Kings. I could tell in the opening few sentences.
Hope you get out for lunch.

Slightly off-piste I think that The Lobster Kings is a great name for our companion restaurant/library ;)

>251 msf59: Yes, I've read Eliot before.

>251 msf59: Sweet Thursday's Warbler

Hi Mark! Getting caught up is hopeless, so I skim.

Your Middlemarch enthusiasm is delightful! That's one I hadn't really considered, but it obviously has many rabid fans who are sensible people.

Oh, and I finally watched the film version of Blue is the Warmest Color (well, a couple months ago) and actually loved it (LOVED. IT.), although I admit there are flaws. I have many thoughts. I want to see it again and have been trying to get Joe to watch it, but we're so caught up in our TV shows for TV time. Oh well.

To the Postie with the Mostie - HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BUDDY!!!!

Don't you love that feeling, when you start a book and get just a few sentences in and KNOW, this is going to be just my CUPPA? This might be one of my favorite moments in my reading life and I felt that way about The Lobster Kings, barely a couple paragraphs in. Smiles...



>252 BekkaJo: Another good biblio/pub name! Thanks, Bekka!

>253 rosalita: What other Eliot titles do you love, Julia? I know Silas Marner gets mixed reviews.

>254 AuntieClio: "Sweet Thursday's Warbler"? Not shabby, Stephanie!

>255 DorsVenabili: Kerri made it! Kerri made it! Be still, my furiously beating heart! I adored Middlemarch. You'll know within 50 pages if it is going to work for you and then you can hunker down and ENJOY!

I had problems with the film version of Blue is the Warmest Color. It felt like it when on FOREVER. My cousin loved the film too and it was an award winner. Maybe, it was me.

>256 PaulCranswick: Thanks mate! Hope you are having a good week.

I know I've read Adam Bede and I think I might have read The Mill on the Floss in high school. I liked them both. I don't know how I never got to Middlemarch, though, especially since I own it.

^The Philip Roth AAC thread is up: http://www.librarything.com/topic/178271

^Come on down!!

>258 rosalita: Thanks, Julia! I have never even heard of those Eliot titles. Bad Mark!

But now that you know you like her writing, I'm sure you'll check them out! The best part about the AAC.

Glad to hear that you had a good cool day. It looks like we will have one tomorrow. That makes me happy, because we are planning a library ladies lunch on the island at kelly's saloon :) yay! It's a tradition. I plan to go early and have a nice spicy bloody Mary. I am reading another YA, hope to finish it to pass on to Bernie tomorrow.

Happy, happy birthday, Mark!!

Happy, happy Mark and many, many more! And yay for Middlemarch. I have Daniel Deronda sitting on my shelf and i'd like to read it soonish with all the talk about Eliot.

I don't post as often as I should, Mark, but I will delurk to wish you a Happy Birthday!🎈 I'm so glad it was a cool day for you. Our heat comes back with a vengeance this weekend...and then back down in the low 80s. I am loving the "dips" in this crazy roller coaster ride.

Congratulations on finishing Middlemarch. It was a great book. I am doing the reading/listening thing with The Innocents Abroad. I'm glad somebody thought of that!

Hello Mark and Happy almost Friday!

I will definitely participate in reading Roth in August. I have American Pastoral on the TBR shelf and will use this as an opportunity to (finally) read it.

And I'll be in Chicago in November 7-12 for my annual conference. It's always a busy time and I'll be connecting with friends from all over the country but I will make a point of letting you know the dates. I would love to get together even if it's just for a quick half (ha).

Happy Birthday, Mark!! I hope it's the best one yet!

Happy Friday! I will be continuing The Lobster Kings & Life on the Mississippi. It looks like I will be closing out another terrific reading month.

>260 rosalita: Good point, Julia! Are you trying Roth?

>261 mckait: Yah, for Kelly's Saloon! enjoy your lunch, Kath!

>262 Copperskye: Thanks, Joanne! Hugs & Waves!

>263 brenzi: Thanks, Bonnie! I can't believe how much I liked Middlemarch. Smiles.

>264 Donna828: Thanks, Donna! I like it when you delurk. You are one of my favorite LT pals.

>265 EBT1002: Howdy, Ellen! Glad you'll be joining us on the Roth AAC. Please let us know, when you hit town ,even if it is for a quick meal.

>266 scaifea: Thanks, Amber! Hugs!

Happy Birthday Mark!

Happiest of happies, Mark!

Stopping in to wish you a birthday full of happy.

Hey it's your birthday?! Woo hoo! Have a happy one Mark!

And MANY moooooore!

Happy Birthday!! and many happy returns of the day.

Did you remember that The Entire Universe Danced a Happy Jig on the Day You were Born?

I'd say happy birthday here, too, but I'm afraid you'd get confused. After all, that happens a lot to people at your time of life.

:-P

Have a great day, buddy!

Happy birthday!!

Wow! So many great birthday wishes and look at all the beer! I'll have to save 'em for after work.

Thanks everyone!

>275 richardderus: LOL! Not quite that bad yet.

Happy birthday to one of the nicest guys around!

And happy Friday too Mark.

Well. Happy birthday!

Happy birthday Mark!!

Happy birthday Mark! I think the picture of Marilyn Monroe blowing out your candle says it all. ;-)

>267 msf59: Definitely going to tackle Roth!

>282 AuntieClio: I think the picture of Marilyn Monroe blowing out your candle says it all.
And if that phrase wasn't just made to be a euphemism I don't know what a euphemism is.

>283 rosalita: Julia, oh oooops caught me ;-P

Happy Birthday Mark. I might have to hang out in the queue for the Juliet Stevenson audio of middlemarch after reading all the praise for her in the posts above. I do have another version lined up for my next audiobook but might do the waiting game on this one.

I've now read 2 Pepe Carvalho books, #2 & #20, both were good and I'll be continuing with them as my library has most.

- Fernando Botero



Thanks for the birthday wishes, everyone! You guys sure are the best. I am never shy about calling this place my second home.

Hugs & High-Fives!!

>282 AuntieClio: >283 rosalita: "I think the picture of Marilyn Monroe blowing out your candle says it all." You both know me so well, don't you? Grins..

>285 avatiakh: Good to see you, Kerry! Yes, try to track down the Juliet Stevenson audio version of Middlemarch. She does a stellar job. I think that is the only one I've heard by her but Ilana has heard her do other things and they are all of the same high quality.

I've been seeing some LT buzz on the Pepe Carvalho books, I better check them out.

Happy Birthday my friend.

>239 msf59: yay, you finished Middlemarch! GO you. But Middlesex? No, not me for either of them ;)

>281 michigantrumpet: lol! That one is SO Mark :)

Happy birthday Mark (belated by now surely)

Muddling along here, looking forward to tonight as me and the lovely O are heading out for Thai food followed by a cocktail. That last part was at my insistence, I have developed a taste.....

I did get all the ALA books unpacked and sorted. It was truly a Cransickian haul. I added 142 titles to my list here on LT. I got some really good books and some that I probably will never read and end up giving away, but in the meantime I will have plenty to choose from. I sorted out the books I will give to my sisters, mother, and nieces and have them boxed and ready for labeling and mailing come Thanksgiving and time to send them on as Christmas presents. It was a good conference. Bad city for a conference, but a good conference. Chicago was much better as a host city.

>288 luvamystery65: >289 Ameise1: thanks Ro & Barb! Hugs!

>290 LovingLit: Middlemarch and Middlesex! What perfect biblio- bookends!! I loved them both! I had Thai for lunch yesterday. I have a place on my route now. Smiles.
Hope you have a great weekend.

>291 benitastrnad: 142 titles?? Did I read that right? I know it's very early in the morning right now, so my vision might be a bit fuzzy. Wowza!! Do you have a specific TBR shelf or shelves?

^Warble over...