L Y N N’s
Comments
(group member since Nov 10, 2018)
L Y N N’s
comments
from the Ultimate Popsugar Reading Challenge group.
Showing 61-80 of 4,907
So glad you're joining, Sasha! Sasha wrote: "1) According to Goodreads, this book is classified by readers as Science Fiction, Mystery, Fantasy, Fiction, Queer, Cozy, LBGT.
Would you typically choose to read a book with these classifications?
SF and queer/LGBT are two of my top categories. I don't read much fantasy, but I wouldn't really classify this as fantasy anyway. I read mysteries occasionally and am planning to explore some of the classics in that genre soon. I do probably tend towards the cozy end of the mystery spectrum."
I particularly enjoy "cozy" mysteries as well! The "thriller" books can be too gory and/or scary for me! (I'm a wuss!)
"2) Was this already on your TBR listing? Or have you chosen to read it to fulfill prompt #3 or simply because it was selected for this Monthly Group Read?
I chose it for the prompt, before it was selected as the monthly group read."
Well, that was fortuitous! Or prescient! Or both!
"3) Have you read either of Curtis's other books? Frontier was released in 2023 and the third book, Idolfire, was just released in March.
No, but Frontier seems like something I might enjoy in the right mood."
For me as well!
"4) Does the cover image speak to you in any way?
Yes, it was one of the things that attracted me to this book when I was looking for something to fill the prompt! I love those purples and blues and sweeping lines. I also found the title font quite evocative of a 1920s, Grand Hotel vibe."
Love your observation about the colors! And the sweeping lines attract me as well! That font is distinctive, IMO. The sweeping lines just kinda bring it all together, IMO!
Welcome to the wild and crazy month of May Group Read, Betty!!Betty wrote: "1) According to Goodreads, this book is classified by readers as Science Fiction, Mystery, Fantasy, Fiction, Queer, Cozy, LBGT.
Would you typically choose to read a book with these classifications?
* Yes, I read a lot of science fiction and fantasy so this is pretty typical for me."
Cool!
") Was this already on your TBR listing? Or have you chosen to read it to fulfill prompt #3 or simply because it was selected for this Monthly Group Read?
* It wasn’t on my TBR. I’m reading it to fill the Space Tourism prompt."
Great!
"3) Have you read either of Curtis's other books? Frontier was released in 2023 and the third book, Idolfire, was just released in March. (Note: Idolfire is about a "road trip," so would fulfill prompt #12)
* Nope - this is the only one of her books I read"
I imagine that may be the overall response...
"4) Does the cover image speak to you in any way?
* It’s a nice cover, but I didn’t feel like it was particularly special in any way."
That is my usual reaction as well! 👍
DeeRae wrote: "1) No, it was not. It was actually selected for my small town book club book for March."That's interesting! What were the book club members' reactions to it?
"2) No, but I was thinking about using it for happy dystopian."
I think it would fulfill that prompt, though, IMO, dystopian books by definition are not necessarily "happy"! 😉
"3) I did find it intriguing and not related how I might have mused."
I agree!
"4) Cover also did draw me in. It was interesting without being cluttered or weird looking."
Yes!
"5) Yes, I do. I have a side plague book quest. I find patient zero/plague outbreak stories interesting."
THAT is interesting! 🙂
"6) I thought I would, and I did!"
It sounds as if this book was "right up your alley," as we used to say! 👍
"We were asked what we’d put in the museum of civilization; maybe a mug or jewelry.
Did the story have a “main character”? -Maybe K?"
I used these as inspiration for a couple of the final questions! Thank you!!
I find Goodreads to be so frustrating! It refused to allow me to post any more than the first question initially. So, my answers are spread over 3 different posts! Ugh. And I tried refreshing multiple times, shutting down my laptop and retrying. Nothing worked! UGH! But finally this discussion is finished. I hope some others will contribute over the next few days and then I'll move it to the 2025 Monthly Group Reads folder where it should be! 😁
4) What do you think of Clark's Museum of Civilization? Is it a valuable contribution? Or meaningless/inane? What would you contribute to such a collection?I think anything that educates us about others is valuable. I also felt as if it might provide motivation to those left behind to keep striving to re-establish some form of civilization as it was in the past, yet hopefully way better! Uncertain what I might contribute. I guess it would mainly depend upon what I still 'owned' but anything could be considered pertinent, IMO.
5) Would you say the story has a “main character”/protagonist? If so, who would you name?
I believe Kirsten is the most obvious answer since she seems to lead the narrative. Though overall I felt many characters' contributions were very important to the story line. I believe the interconnectedness of characters makes the idea of a "protagonist" a bit less obvious or necessary.
6) Did you enjoy this book? What is your overall reaction?
Hmmm... I did, if you can consider a "dystopian" novel to be "enjoyable"! LOL What mainly appealed to me was the complex interconnectedness of characters. But for me, dystopia overall is not "enjoyable" since in the aftermath it typically feels depressing to me...
7) Would you recommend this book to other readers? Why or why not?
I would recommend it, but with disclaimers regarding the fact that I mostly appreciate the interconnectedness of the characters' lives and I feel this would be an excellent "book club" read as it should provide much fodder for discussion. Especially since we have now experienced a global pandemic in our "modern world." Though I also found it extremely thought-provoking just on an individual/personal level as well.
2) Did you have a clue as to the real-life identity of "The Prophet"?I did. I can't remember exactly where in my reading of the book I wondered if this crazed man wasn't Tyler. I think it was when his mother became so radical and they left with a cult group...
3) How do you think other's lives might have been changed if Arthur had lived?
Arthur fully intended to fly to join Elizabeth and Tyler, but then he died. I can only imagine that Tyler might well have been changed by sustained and more intimate contact with this father. Having been raised by a single mother who became rather cult-like in her religious beliefs the last 15-20 years of her life, I realize how easily a child can be influenced by a single parent. (Much to my mother's chagrin, I did not follow in her footsteps regarding her zealous beliefs...) I felt very sorry for Tyler as a result. Though not enough to absolve him of his many crimes. IMO, the world would have been much better off without him in it as an adult simply because of the harm to he caused others--death/murder/suicide, intimidation, etc. Although, Arthur didn't seem to be very good at following through on his intentions with regard to close relationships, so perhaps he would not have been a positive contributor to Tyler's life and development. (There are no guarantees...)
My answers...1) What are your thoughts regarding Miranda's "Station Eleven"?
It has been long enough I honestly don't remember much about this 'comic' other than I totally respected Miranda's efforts throughout the years and was extremely disappointed for her that (view spoiler)
And finally...1) What are your thoughts regarding Miranda's "Station Eleven"?
2) Did you have a clue as to the real-life identity of "The Prophet"?
3) How do you think other's lives might have been changed if Arthur had lived?
4) What do you think of Clark's Museum of Civilization? Is it a valuable contribution? Or meaningless/inane? What would you contribute to such a collection?
5) Would you say the story has a “main character”/protagonist? If so, who would you name?
6) Did you enjoy this book? What is your overall reaction?
7) Would you recommend this book to other readers? Why or why not?
We’ve had a tad of rain off and on, but much less than it sounds like you’ve been getting, Nadine! Our A/C has been fixed and is running, so I am very happy about that! (Especially since it did not cost nearly as much as I feared it might!) It looks as if temperatures will be in the 70s/80s this next week. A list from Goodreads! Readers' Favorite History, Memoir, and General Nonfiction of the Past Five Years (posted April 1, 2025)
The IRL book club I facilitate has just selected (by vote) our next 9 books to read throughout 2026! I always get so excited about this process!! We had 25 books nominated and I thought you might find it interesting to see the 9 selected…
1) After Life by Gayle Forman
2) The Crescent Moon Tearoom by Stacy Sivinski
3) East of Eden by John Steinbeck
4) Fundamentally by Nussaibah Younis
5) The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet (Wayfarers #1) by Becky Chambers
6) The Measure by Nikki Erlick
7) Orbital by Samantha Harvey
8) Somewhere Beyond the Sea (Cerulean Chronicles #2) by T.J. Klune
9) The Wedding People by Alison Espach
In addition to these, each member selects a book for the group to read during their birthday month. I added that in the aftermath of COVID once we began meeting IRL again. It has been a nice addition and seems to help each member feel more invested in the group overall.
ADMIN STUFF:
THE JULY MONTHLY GROUP READ FINAL SELECTION POLL IS LIVE!
This book could be used to fulfill prompt #5 A book with a snake on the cover or in the title
World Snake Day is July 16 2025 (I had no idea there was one of these!!)
There are five books from which to select:
The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (Hunger Games #0) by Suzanne Collins
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
A Snake Falls to Earth by ??
Stone Blind by ??
Sunrise on the Reaping (Hunger Games #0.5) by Suzanne Collins
VOTE HERE!
*** This poll will run through May 20th. ***
THE JUNE MONTHLY GROUP READ IS West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge!
This book could be used to fulfill prompt #12 A book about a road trip. Take a Road Trip Day is June 20, 2025!
West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge
Who is the "tricky traveler" willing to facilitate this discussion? Please message either Nadine or myself to volunteer!
I adore this book! And such an unknown bit of history. Unbelievable what was attempted…
THE MAY MONTHLY GROUP READ IS Floating Hotel by Grace Curtis This book could be used to fulfill prompt #3 A book about space tourism. National Space Day is May 2, 2025! https://www.calendarr.com/united-stat...
THE LISTING OF 2025 MONTHLY GROUP READ TOPICS IS HERE!
***
QUESTION OF THE WEEK:
Which 2025 publications are you still eagerly anticipating?
Oh, my. I have thus far read only one book released in 2025. That was Wooing the Witch Queen (Queens of Villainy #1) by Stephanie Burgis that I received free of charge and had a break in my reading schedule so read it as soon as I received it in January. Most books included below have already been released! But that doesn’t mean I have them yet! 😉
FROM THE INDY BOOK AUTHOR LUNCHEON EVENT APRIL 25:
*The Stolen Queen by Fiona Davis January 7
*Harlem Rhapsody by Victoria Christopher Murray February 4
*A Girl Like Us by Anna Sophia McLoughlin February 11
*The Queens of Crime by Marie Benedict February 11
*Jane and Dan at the End of the World by Colleen Oakley March 11
All the Water in the World--Eiren Caffall January 7
Homeseeking--Karissa Chen January 7
The Three Lives of Cate Kay--Kate Fagan January 7
**More or Less Maddy--Lisa Genova January 14
Genova is one of my all-time favorite authors!
Water Moon--Samantha Sotto Yambao January 14
**Death of the Author--Nnedi Okorafor January 14
I loved Orkorafor's Binti trilogy!
Too Soon--Betty Shamieh January 28
**Original Sins: The (Mis)education of Black and Native Children and the Construction of American Racism--Eve L. Ewing February 11
Oh, yeah...definitely one everyone should read, I imagine!
**Three Days in June--Anne Tyler February 11
Confession! I have yet to read an Anne Tyler book. It is time!
**We All Live Here--Jojo Moyes February 11
Another favorite author!
**Black Woods Blue Sky--Eowyn Ivey February 11
I adored The Snow Child!
**Famous Last Words--Gillian McAllister February 25
I keep meaning to tackle her backlist!
**Dream Count--Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie March 4
Another author I keep meaning to read!
**The Martian Contingency (Lady Astronaut #4)--Mary Robinette Kowal March 18
You can tell how busy and stressed I have been. I have yet to purchase and read this 4th installment of one of my favorite series!!
**Everything Is Tuberculosis: The History and Persistence of Our Deadliest Infection--John Green March 18
It's John Green!!
**When the Moon Hits Your Eye--John Scalzi March 25
I finally obtained a copy of The Kaiju Preservation Society, but have yet to read it!!
**The Maid's Secret (Molly the Maid #3)--Nita Prose April 3
Another favorite series!
**My Friends--Fredrik Backman May 20
Fredrik Backman! 'Nuff said!!
The Memory Collectors--Dete Meserve May 20
**Atmosphere: A Love Story--Taylor Jenkins Reid June 3
Three more to read from her backlist! I am convinced I'll inhale whatever she writes and want more!!
The River's Daughter--Bridget Crocker June 3
**The Homemade God: A Novel--Rachel Joyce June 24
Another favorite author!
**Murder at Somerset House (Wrexford & Sloane #9)--Andrea Penrose
I can guarantee that no matter how poor or short on time, I'll own and inhale this one immediately!!
2025 READING CHALLENGES:
Popsugar: 39/50
Around the Year (AtY): 51/52
AtY 2025 Anniversary List: 10/10 FINISHED
Read Harder: 16/24
52 Book Club: 42/52
2024 Popsugar: 47/50
FINISHED:
*The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBride ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ was just as enjoyable a read as I had anticipated! After having read his memoir The Color of Water, I assumed that I appreciated his writing style enough to enjoy virtually anything he would write. This book proved that assumption to be correct. Such well-defined and diverse characters! Along with a mystery and complex interactions among the characters who experienced trauma but also in some instances had relatively ‘happy’ endings… This is, IMO, an excellent example of “literary fiction” that is comprehensive, wide-ranging, and epic in its own way. Of our five book club members: two DNFd it very early, two enjoyed it, and I loved it! The use of other languages was confusing to all four of the other members and the two who enjoyed it wished they’d not had to “work so hard” to read it, though they didn’t feel there were too many characters. I just shrugged, ‘cause I didn’t have any negative reactions to it. (Upon reading Nadine’s review I was relatively assured of at least enjoying this, if not loving it! LOL That’s what is so lovely about reading and books! We each have our own unique reactions! No “right” or “wrong,” just unique and specific to each of us!)
POPSUGAR: #2, #6, #26, #28, #40, #43
ATY: #2, #3, #5, NEW #9, #15, #16, #23, #26, #32, #33, #37, #41, #44, #45, #48, #50
RHC: #5, NEW #8, #16, #21, #24
52 Book Club: #22, #33, #36, #43, #51-385 pages
CONTINUING:
*Floating Hotel by Grace Curtis for the Monthly Group Read
*The Dollhouse by Fiona Davis
*The Rabbit Hutch by Tess Gunty
*Hope in the Dark: The Untold History of People Power by RebeccaSolnit
PLANNED: (for the Indy Book Author event in April)
*Her Hidden Genius by Marie Benedict
*The Invisible Husband of Frick Island by Colleen Oakley
*The First Ladies by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
*The Mitford Affair by Marie Benedict
Let's get started!1) According to Goodreads, this book is classified by readers as Science Fiction, Mystery, Fantasy, Fiction, Queer, Cozy, LBGT.
Would you typically choose to read a book with these classifications?
Oh, yeah. This clicks alot of boxes for me and would definitely interest me!
2) Was this already on your TBR listing? Or have you chosen to read it to fulfill prompt #3 or simply because it was selected for this Monthly Group Read?
I had to look, but yes, this was added to my TBR listing in March 2024. I assumed I would enjoy reading it...
3) Have you read either of Curtis's other books? Frontier was released in 2023 and the third book, Idolfire, was just released in March. (Note: Idolfire is about a "road trip," so would fulfill prompt #12)
I have not. But each of them appeals to me, so if I enjoy this one, I would definitely be up for reading either/both of them!
4) Does the cover image speak to you in any way?
It does! I typically am not impressed either way with cover images--they just don't matter to me all that much. However, this one makes me think of truly 'getting away from it all' and/or vacationing in luxury. And all of that definitely appeals to me in many ways!!
To get us started:1) According to Goodreads, this book is classified by readers as Science Fiction, Mystery, Fantasy, Fiction, Queer, Cozy, LBGT.
Would you typically choose to read a book with these classifications?
2) Was this already on your TBR listing? Or have you chosen to read it to fulfill prompt #3 or simply because it was selected for this Monthly Group Read?
3) Have you read either of Curtis's other books? Frontier was released in 2023 and the third book, Idolfire, was just released in March. (Note: Idolfire is about a "road trip," so would fulfill prompt #12)
4) Does the cover image speak to you in any way?
I just read the first 12 pages tonight. Interesting start! I'll post some questions tomorrow.
Welcome to May! The temperatures have finally become rather consistently warm (and humid on certain days.) This day has been a much better day than I anticipated it might be! That’s a good thing. The result of finally having our A/C checked out was a much lower price than I had feared! Yay!! My arthritis just cannot tolerate the humidity in the house without it now that I am truly old! 😊I found this to be a very interesting NPR article: “Most Americans want to read more books. We just don’t.” (Though we know each of US does! LOL)
https://www.npr.org/2025/04/07/nx-s1-...
ADMIN STUFF:
THE JULY MONTHLY GROUP READ NOMINATION POLL IS LIVE!
This book could be used to fulfill prompt #5 A book with a snake on the cover or in the title
World Snake Day is July 16 2025 (I had no idea there was one of these!!)
If you would like to write-in a nomination, please check the book's eligibility first! Only books that have NOT been discussed within the past two years (2023-present) are eligible. Remember to consult the listing of these books that are NOT eligible for this month HERE before nominating! :) There is an alphabetized listing by title as well as a chronological listing.
There are currently 9 books nominated…go vote HERE!
*** This poll will run from April 22rd through May 6th. ***
THE JUNE MONTHLY GROUP READ IS West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge!
This book could be used to fulfill prompt #12 A book about a road trip. Take a Road Trip Day is June 20, 2025!
West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge
Who is the "tricky traveler" willing to facilitate this discussion? Please message either Nadine or myself to volunteer!
I adore this book! And such an unknown bit of history. Unbelievable what was attempted…
THE MAY MONTHLY GROUP READ IS Floating Hotel by Floating Hotel This book could be used to fulfill prompt #3 A book about space tourism. National Space Day is May 2, 2025! https://www.calendarr.com/united-stat... Surely we have a "fearless facilitator" out there to lead May's discussion! Please message either Nadine or myself to volunteer!
I have my copy! It looks as if no one has volunteered, so I’ll take a stab at posting some questions since I am curious to read this one!
THE APRIL MONTHLY GROUP READ SELECTION IS Before the Coffee Gets Cold (Before the Coffee Gets Cold, #1) by Toshikazu Kwaguchi, translated by Geoffrey Trousselot!
This book could be used to fulfill prompt #23 A book that is considered healing fiction
World Health Day is April 7, 2025: https://www.calendarr.com/united-stat...
Sasha Wolf is the "humble hero" who led this discussion! YAY!! Thank you so much, Sasha!
THE LISTING OF 2025 MONTHLY GROUP READ TOPICS IS HERE!
***
QUESTION OF THE WEEK:
Regarding the NPR article cited above(https://www.npr.org/2025/04/07/nx-s1-...)
Here is the listing of favored genres per the the reading poll results:
(1) Thriller/Crime/Mystery
(2) Historical Nonfiction
(3) Memoir/Biography/Autobiography
(4) Historical Fiction
(5) Fantasy
(6) Science Fiction
(7) Realistic/Literary Fiction
(8) Romance
(9) Self-Help
(10) Young Adult
(11) Graphic Novels
(12) Children’s Books
(13) Poetry
(14) Other
And finally, those who claim they do not have a favorite book genre
Is there anything that surprises you about this list?
I admit that I was a bit surprised. As the manager at the Borders store where I worked said several times, “Romance readers keep us open.” I did notice those customers who would return at regular intervals and purchase huge stacks (10-25 books) of paperbacks at a time—all romance! I was quite surprised by that since I had refused to even pickup a romance book at that time! Although I extensively screen them first, I do read romance books now. Not many, but some.
I admit to being surprised that Mystery, Thriller, and Crime (I assume they mean True Crime) are all three lumped together. Though I imagine that is just me being picky.
Then I wonder what people mean by “Other”…Erotica? Horror? What else?
As you may imagine, it would be extremely difficult for me to select only one genre, but I guess that would have to be “Mystery.” I was pleasantly surprised to see that the 2nd and 3rd categories were nonfiction. I think that’s cool!
2025 READING CHALLENGES:
Popsugar: 39/50
Around the Year (AtY): 50/52
AtY 2025 Anniversary List: 10/10 FINISHED
Read Harder: 15/24
52 Book Club: 42/52
2024 Popsugar: 47/50
FINISHED:
*Murder Your Employer (The McMasters Guide to Homicide #1) by Rupert Holmes ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ for an IRL book club meeting. Unusual for me, I had not finished reading this prior to the meeting, but only due to time limitations…due to too much “adulting”! LOL This was quite complex and thought-provoking. I ended up really enjoying it on many different levels. It proved to be much more than the ‘fun and games’ approach to murder I had expected…
POPSUGAR: #2, #6, #14, #20, #26
ATY: #1, #2, #5, #11, #13, #15, #16, #23, #24, #32, #37, #41, #45, #48
RHC: #4, #24
52 Book Club: #2, #3, #24, #25, #39, #51-395 pages
CONTINUING:
*The Dollhouse by Fiona Davis
*The Rabbit Hutch by Tess Gunty
*Hope in the Dark: The Untold History of People Power by RebeccaSolnit
PLANNED:
*Her Hidden Genius by Marie Benedict
*The Invisible Husband of Frick Island by Colleen Oakley
*The First Ladies by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
*The Mitford Affair by Marie Benedict
itford Affair|60604163] by Marie Benedict
Lilith wrote: "Happy Sunday all!It’s been a busy couple of weeks, with lots of events and meeting up with friends. An email went out on Friday the 12th, and a couple friends and I went to a protest on Cambridge..."
I am so jealous of your activism! Know that I am always out there in spirit even if I cannot make it in physical presence!!
"I Who Have Never Known Men I’m still working out whether I loved this, liked this, or just found it meh. It depends on the day and how I am interpreting the story. Jacqueline Harpman's writing is beautiful, so my responses are entirely my own challenge.
I’m somewhere between love and like, when I focus on themes of survival and creating culture. Some days, I feel a bit meh when I focus on the plot; it’s a slow, quiet novel, which I usually appreciate, but for me, this was not a page turner. I read this for the dystopian novel with a "happy"(hopeful) ending prompt. On better days, I felt that [ the MC survived! She developed her leadership, and created culture anew with a group of women! (hide spoiler)], and that feels hopeful. On sadder days, I feel [ exhausted that she worked so hard, only to never find out where she was, never met any other humans besides her group, and died with wishes unfulfilled (hide spoiler)]. I'm choosing to shift the weight to the better days and think this is a hopeful ending."
Ah. We discussed this not too long ago in one of my IRL book club meetings. We came to a consensus that (view spoiler)
I have had to do way too much adulting these past few weeks! Ugh. And more to come, unfortunately!ADMIN STUFF:
THE JULY MONTHLY GROUP READ NOMINATION POLL IS LIVE!
This book could be used to fulfill prompt #5 A book with a snake on the cover or in the title
World Snake Day is July 16 2025
If you would like to write-in a nomination, please check the book's eligibility first! Only books that have NOT been discussed within the past two years (2023-present) are eligible. Remember to consult the listing of these books that are NOT eligible for this month HERE before nominating! :) There is an alphabetized listing by title as well as a chronological listing.
There are currently 9 books nominated…go vote HERE!
*** This poll will run from April 22rd through May 6th. ***
THE JUNE MONTHLY GROUP READ IS West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge!
This book could be used to fulfill prompt #12 A book about a road trip. Take a Road Trip Day is June 20, 2025!
West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge
Who is the "tricky traveler" willing to facilitate this discussion? Please message either Nadine or myself to volunteer!
I adore this book! And such an unknown bit of history. Unbelievable what was attempted and accomplished…
THE MAY MONTHLY GROUP READ IS Floating Hotel by Floating Hotel This book could be used to fulfill prompt #3 A book about space tourism. National Space Day is May 2, 2025! https://www.calendarr.com/united-stat... Surely we have a "fearless facilitator" out there to lead May's discussion! Please message either Nadine or myself to volunteer!
I have my copy!
THE APRIL MONTHLY GROUP READ SELECTION IS Before the Coffee Gets Cold (Before the Coffee Gets Cold, #1) by Toshikazu Kwaguchi, translated by Geoffrey Trousselot!
This book could be used to fulfill prompt #23 A book that is considered healing fiction
World Health Day is April 7, 2025: https://www.calendarr.com/united-stat...
Sasha Wolf is the "humble hero" who has graciously volunteered to lead this discussion! YAY!! Thank you so much, Sasha!
THE LISTING OF 2025 MONTHLY GROUP READ TOPICS IS HERE!
***
QUESTION OF THE WEEK:
Are there any new books by Pacific Islander, Asian, or Asian-American authors that you would specifically recommend reading during the month of May in honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Appreciation Month?
Honestly, I’m terrible about tracking this for some reason… I dislike discussions (arguments?) about whether an author qualifies as “X”, “Y”, or “Z” category.
I gave A Magical Girl Retires 4 stars—written by Park Seolyeon, translated by Anton Hu, and illustrated by Kim Sanho. It was an okay read for me, but definitely not the type of prose I prefer... I think it would be a good fit for those who enjoy reading manga.
I enjoyed XOXO by Axie Oh enough that I fully intend to read ASAP. I think her upcoming release, The Floating World, looks like one I might also enjoy. I was a bit underwhelmed by The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea, but perhaps I just wasn’t in the mood for a mythical retelling at that time…
I don’t know if Premee Mohamed qualifies (“Indo-Caribbean”), but I found The Annual Migration of Clouds enjoyable enough that I intend to read the second installment We Speak Through the Mountain.
Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982: A Novel written by Cho Nam-Joo, translated by Jamie Chang was thought-provoking and great fodder for book club discussion.
2025 READING CHALLENGES:
Popsugar: 39/50
Around the Year (AtY): 50/52
AtY 2025 Anniversary List: 10/10 FINISHED
Read Harder: 15/24
52 Book Club: 42/52
2024 Popsugar: 47/50
FINISHED:
*No Two Persons by Erica Bauermeister ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ was just as enjoyable as I expected it to be. Perhaps a bit more maudlin than I anticipated, although, as all the book club members agreed, hopeful overall…
POPSUGAR: #2, #6, #20, #24, #26, NEW #47
ATY: #2, #5, #8, #15, #16, #23, #33, #34, #36, #37, #40, #45, #48
RHC: #4
52 Book Club: #2, #4, #33, #39, #41, #51
CONTINUING:
*Murder Your Employer (The McMasters Guide to Homicide #1) by Rupert Holmes for an IRL book club meeting
*The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBride
*The Dollhouse by Fiona Davis
*The Rabbit Hutch by Tess Gunty
*Hope in the Dark: The Untold History of People Power by RebeccaSolnit
PLANNED: (for the Indy Book Author event in April)
*Her Hidden Genius by Marie Benedict
*The Invisible Husband of Frick Island by Colleen Oakley
*The First Ladies by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
*The Mitford Affair by Marie Benedict
itford Affair|60604163] by Marie Benedict
honeyfolds wrote: "QOTW: Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus by Dusti Bowling. I do enjoy middle grade and this one is no exception. It is such a sweet story."One of my favorites!
As you know, I was an idiot as of last Thursday morning. I had two appointments and completely forgot about posting to begin the discussion. Ugh. Old age sucks sometimes! NPR article: 10 Emerging Writers Win Whiting Awards:
https://www.npr.org/2025/04/09/nx-s1-...
These names were all new to me!
Interesting listing provided by Penguin Random House of THE MOST CHECKED OUT LIBRARY BOOKS per the New York Public Library:
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/th...
I found this particularly interesting since I just finished reading The Lions of Fifth Avenue set in the NY Public Library. I know many of you read library books…
ADMIN STUFF:
THE JUNE MONTHLY GROUP READ FINAL SELECTON POLL IS LIVE!
This book could be used to fulfill prompt #12 A book about a road trip. Take a Road Trip Day is June 20, 2025!
These are the final three books from which to select (presented in alphabetical order):
Amy & Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson
The Hobbit, or There and Back Again by J.R.R. Tolkien
West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge
*** This poll will run from April 10th through April 22nd. *** You can vote HERE!
THE MAY MONTHLY GROUP READ IS Floating Hotel by Floating Hotel This book could be used to fulfill prompt #3 A book about space tourism. National Space Day is May 2, 2025! https://www.calendarr.com/united-stat... Surely we have a "fearless facilitator" out there to lead May's discussion! Please message either Nadine or myself to volunteer!
THE APRIL MONTHLY GROUP READ SELECTION IS Before the Coffee Gets Cold (Before the Coffee Gets Cold, #1) by Toshikazu Kwaguchi, translated by Geoffrey Trousselot!
This book could be used to fulfill prompt #23 A book that is considered healing fiction
World Health Day is April 7, 2025: https://www.calendarr.com/united-stat...
Sasha Wolf is the "humble hero" who has graciously volunteered to lead this discussion! YAY!! Thank you so much, Sasha!
THE LISTING OF 2025 MONTHLY GROUP READ TOPICS IS HERE!
***
QUESTION OF THE WEEK:
Have any of the 2025 prompts lead to an unexpectedly enjoyable read this year?
The first one that comes to mind is Running with Sherman by Christopher McDougall which I read to complete prompt #17 A book about a run club. It was such an excellent read!! And so much more informative and intriguing than you might imagine!
Then I read a book I got for free from one of my local used bookstores which unexpectedly was a perfect fit to fulfill prompt #21 A book where the main character is a politician—Wooing the Witch Queen (Queens of Villainy #1) by Stephanie Burgis. “Fabian” is actually the imperial archduke, though he is incognito upon arriving at Queen Saskia’s, accpeting a position to organize her library… So this is a romantasy option for that prompt!
Another book I unexpectedly really enjoyed was Furia by Yamile Saied Méndez to fulfill prompt #22 A book about soccer. This felt so very genuine for depicting the life of a female in Argentina, given the oppression of females, and those who refuse to be put in a box!
2025 READING CHALLENGES:
Popsugar: 38/50
Around the Year (AtY): 50/52
AtY 2025 Anniversary List: 10/10 FINISHED
Read Harder: 15/24
52 Book Club: 42/52
2024 Popsugar: 47/50
FINISHED:
Evidence of the Affair by Taylor Jenkins Reid ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ was a heartfelt rendering of two spouses connecting in the aftermath of learning of their respective spouses’ affair with each other. A bit mind-boggling, and yet quite believable and genuine-feeling. And that evidence! Wow…I would love to know what happened after this, but I think each of their lives will remain separate and yet forever linked in a way. I am gathering this was self-published on Amazon. Great start in what I term a superb writing career! It is a short story.
POPSUGAR: #6, #8-85 pages, #20, #24, #28
ATY: #2, #5, #7, #8, #15, #16, #19, #26, #37, #41, #46
RHC: #24
52 Book Club: #10, #33
*You Were There Too by Colleen Oakley ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ was such an enthralling read for me! I firmly believe our minds are capable of so much more than we can even imagine! Especially during sleep. I have such appreciation of Oakley’s ability to interweave these characters’ experiences and lives and the ending was unexpected and so satisfying with an appropriate mixture of sadness and hope for the future! So poignant overall!
POPSUGAR: #6, #20, #28, NEW #42
ATY: #2, #5, #15, #16, #23, #26, #34, #37, #40, #41, #45, #48
RHC: #4, #24
52 Book Club: #2, #33, #39, #48, #51
*The Only Woman in the Room by Marie Benedict ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ was fascinating! I had known that Hedy Lamarr was somehow involved in developing some basic technology that enabled “future”/current technology, and that she was somehow involved with Nazis during WW II, but no details or basic knowledge of these aspects of her life. She was a survivor! Of so many oppression and so much! But she never gave up…she only persevered! Regardless… It seemed this book hit the right balance for me. I highly recommend it!
POPSUGAR: #2, #6, #15, #25, #28, #31, #32, #50
ATY: #2, #3, #5, #15, #16, #23, #24, #30, #34, #37, #41, #44, #48
RHC: #4, #5, #17, #21
52 Book Club: #10, #33, #43, #48, NEW #50, #51
*The Lions of Fifth Avenue by Fiona Davis ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ was almost too realistic! Seriously. These characters depict the complexity of being human and the resulting effects of our behaviors and decisions. It was quite an enthralling read. I especially appreciated the diversity among the characters and their interrelationships. I kept wondering how this would all connect together, but I needn’t have worried! It was seamless! I adore historical fiction mystery novels!
POPSUGAR: #6, #20, #24, #25, #35
ATY: #1, #2, #5, #15, #16, #17, #19, #20, #36, #37, #41, #44, #48
RHC: #4, #5, #16, #21
52 Book Club: #5, #10, #33, #41, #43, #51
CONTINUING:
*No Two Persons by Erica Bauermeister
*The Dollhouse by Fiona Davis
*The Rabbit Hutch by Tess Gunty
*Hope in the Dark: The Untold History of People Power by RebeccaSolnit
PLANNED: (for the Indy Book Author event in April)
*The First Ladies by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
*The Invisible Husband of Frick Island by Colleen Oakley
*Her Hidden Genius by Marie Benedict
*The Mitford Affair by Marie Benedict
Well, folks! It is Sunday and I am finally getting around to posting for this last week. Weather has been good here. Lots of sunshine the past couple of days and springtime temperatures, so it suits me. These are very frustrating and depressing times, but I refuse to not be informed. Admittedly it is tough for me not to dwell on all the negative things being done to the United States, but I keep sending out positive energy for this to end…sooner rather than later! I trust all of you are holding up well and are able to deal with everything being thrown at you. Some days I just keep slogging along—one foot in front of the other and on other days I deliberately find things to excite me in a positive way. Fortunately, the books I am reading in preparation for the live author event later this month are all extremely enjoyable thus far. That is an amazing lift for me! May each of you have similar positive experiences!! Six Tales of Mystery and Mishap to Dive into this Weekend:
https://www.npr.org/2025/04/01/nx-s1-...
Ten Books We’re Looking Forward to this Spring:
https://www.npr.org/2025/04/02/nx-s1-...
ADMIN STUFF:
THE JUNE MONTHLY GROUP READ FINAL SELECTON POLL IS LIVE!
This book could be used to fulfill prompt #12 A book about a road trip. Take a Road Trip Day is June 20, 2025!
These are the final three books from which to select (presented in alphabetical order):
Amy & Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson
The Hobbit, or There and Back Again by J.R.R. Tolkien
West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge
*** This poll will run from April 10th through April 22nd. *** You can vote HERE!
THE MAY MONTHLY GROUP READ IS Floating Hotel by Floating Hotel This book could be used to fulfill prompt #3 A book about space tourism. National Space Day is May 2, 2025! https://www.calendarr.com/united-stat... Surely we have a "fearless facilitator" out there to lead May's discussion! Please message either Nadine or myself to volunteer!
THE APRIL MONTHLY GROUP READ SELECTION IS Before the Coffee Gets Cold (Before the Coffee Gets Cold, #1) by Toshikazu Kwaguchi, translated by Geoffrey Trousselot!
This book could be used to fulfill prompt #23 A book that is considered healing fiction
World Health Day is April 7, 2025: https://www.calendarr.com/united-stat...
Sasha Wolf is the "humble hero" who has graciously volunteered to lead this discussion! YAY!! Thank you so much, Sasha! Unfortunately, Sasha’s message didn’t appear in my inbox for a week! Ugh… At least it did finally arrive!
THE LISTING OF 2025 MONTHLY GROUP READ TOPICS IS HERE!
***
QUESTION OF THE WEEK:
How do you feel about reading classics? Do you normally fit one or two into your year's reading, or is this year's Challenge category ("A classic you've never read") pushing you to read something you'd never normally read?
I like to read classics and have been including at least 3-4 in my reading each of the past 5-6 years. I can’t say I always ENJOY them, but I am always glad to at least have a frame of reference for them in the future.
2025 READING CHALLENGES:
Popsugar: 37/50
Around the Year (AtY): 50/52
AtY 2025 Anniversary List: 10/10 FINISHED
Read Harder: 15/24
52 Book Club: 42/52
2024 Popsugar: 47/50
FINISHED:
*The Mostly True Story of Tanner and Louise by Colleen Oakley ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ was superb!! Cannot wait to meet the author later this month! Highly recommended. There is much going on here, but it is well organized and the characters makes it shine! I particularly appreciate the juxtaposition of generations so far removed from each other philosophically and experientially and yet, not so very far apart in the end! This is an excellent fit for #12 the road trip prompt!
POPSUGAR: #2, #6, NEW #12, #14, #20, #23, #28
ATY: #2, #3, #5, #13, #15, #16, #24, #26, #32, #37, #40, #41, #45, #48
RHC: #4
52 Book Club: #3, #5, #21, #33, #36, #38, #39, #47, #48, #51
*The Deep by Rivers Solomon ⭐⭐⭐ was a tough book for me to connect with. I think I really wasn’t in the mood for it. Yet another aspect of the kidnapping, enslavement, and oppression of African people that is absolutely abhorrent and, IMO, unbelievable—that humans could treat other humans so INHUMANELY! Ugh. I appreciate Solomon emphasizing this aspect of slavery. Also, Solomon has been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and is on the autism spectrum, so this book fulfills prompt #34! In addition, I consider it a match for prompt #50 regarding chronic pain since Yetu spends 20 years of her 34 years of life in chronic pain and suffering!
POPSUGAR: #6, #8, #16, #20, #28, #32, NEW #34, #44, NEW #50
ATY: #2, #4, #5, #14, #16, #18, #25, #26, #41, #43, #44, #46, #48
RHC: #6, #17, #19, #24
52 Book Club: #10, #13, #22, #33, #37, #39
*Stand Your Ground by Victoria Christopher Murray ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ was an excellent illustration of so many aspects of murder vs. self-defense, truth vs. loyalty, betrayal, infidelity, domestic abuse (physical and otherwise), and perhaps most importantly false narratives espousing lies and the manipulation of public opinion through media. Murray’s characters were well-defined and genuine, IMO. This would make an excellent book club book with much fodder for discussion. Is vigilantism valid? Necessary? Moral? Awwww…very thought-provoking to any reader, IMO. I am so anxious to talk with her later this month!
POPSUGAR: #6, #20
ATY: #2, #7, #15, #16, #24, #26, #41, #44, #45, #46, #48
RHC: #21, #24
52 Book Club: #10, #33
*The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ was amazing! What a story and what a life this woman led! A “colored” female passing as “white” in the early 20th Century. I cannot imagine the minute-by-minute stress she had to cope with and endure. But she hung in there and continued with the façade as she made herself and J.P. Morgan famous…as they acquired a truly remarkable collection in the Pierpoint Morgan Library which was acknowledged as one of the globally superior collections of manuscripts and art.
POPSUGAR: NEW #1, #4, #6, #20, #26, #28, #32
ATY: #2, #3, #5, #7, #16, #17, #23, #24, #26, #36, #37, #41, #45, #48
RHC: #4, #17
52 Book Club: #2, #10, #33, #43
CONTINUING:
*No Two Persons by Erica Bauermeister
*You Were There Too by Colleen Oakley
*The Lions of Fifth Avenue by Fiona Davis
*The Only Woman in the Room by Marie Benedict
*The Rabbit Hutch by Tess Gunty
*Hope in the Dark: The Untold History of People Power by RebeccaSolnit
PLANNED: (for the Indy Book Author event in April)
*The Dollhouse by Fiona Davis
*The First Ladies by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
*The Invisible Husband of Frick Island by Colleen Oakley
*Her Hidden Genius by Marie Benedict
*The Mitford Affair by Marie Benedict
Apr 11, 2025 12:31PM
1) Was this book already on your TBR list before this challenge/this Group Read selection?I have actually read this 3 times and look forward to rereading it for a 4th time and then continuing through the series while taking some notes. I have read the first 4 and want to read all 5 that have been translated into English. (Obviously, I really like this book/series!)
2) The website "K-Book Trends" defines healing fiction as "free of difficult or complex plot" with themes of "empathy, healing, comfort, courage and solidarity", often set amongst the customers of a store or similar everyday venue. It became popular as a genre in Korea and then spread to Japan and beyond. Is this a genre you have read in before?
I have read other books that would qualify and have loved them all!
3) The book's epigraph is If you could go back, who would you want to meet? What would be your answer?
Easy answer for me. My biological father whom I never had the opportunity to meet in real life before his death.
4) The book opens with a relationship map of the characters. Do you find this helpful? What kind of additional features do you like to see in a fiction book?
I love relationship maps because it is so helpful to me in remembering the interrelationships of the characters and that can be so beneficial in understanding the story overall. I have found maps to be helpful as well.
5) What language are you reading this book in? Given GR's demographics I'm guessing most of us have the English translation by Geoffrey Trousselot - but perhaps we have some other translations represented, or even someone who is able to read in the original Japanese?
Ugh. I am a typical mono-lingual American, so always English...
Carmen wrote: "L Y N N wrote: "There is a 6th installment in the Dan Brown’s Robert Langdon series due to be released September 9, 2025! The Secret of Secrets I have read all of his books, but The Da Vinci Code i...I have read them all, too! People can hate all they want, but you mentioning a new book coming in that series has me genuinely excited!! I guess I know what I'll be reading on the plane xD So fun, I read Inferno on holiday back then, and now I'll be doing the same!"
I guess I didn't know people "hate" Brown...
