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 161-180 of 4,993
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...
Happy Thursday! Sorry this is so late! Thank goodness Nadine texted me! I want to take the time to give a shout-out to all of you for your very kind and compassionate replies to my spewing all my trauma at you! I debated whether to do that, but truly, it was a cathartic release. And just thank you for being so gracious and supportive. Truly, it means a lot… Throughout my life I have met in person with several people whom I met and developed a relationship with online, and we are even closer as a result. That’s how I envision all of you! If we met face-to-face I feel as if it would simple strengthen our relationship. Thank you again!
A list! Six Tales of Mystery and Mishap—all hitting book stores on April Fools’ Day! (I realize that was this past Tuesday, but still…) 😊
https://www.npr.org/2025/04/01/nx-s1-...
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 is definitely my favorite!
ADMIN STUFF:
THE JUNE MONTHLY GROUP READ NOMINATION 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!
Thus far, nine books have been nominated:
West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge
Detour (Transportation #1) by Reesa Herberth
American Gods by Neil Gaiman
Annie Freeman's Fabulous Traveling Funeral by Kris Radish
Travels with Charley: In Search of America by John Steinbeck
When Life Gives You Lemons, Make Peach Pie (Peach Pie Experiment #1) by Erin Soderberg Downing
The Hobbit, or There and Back Again by J.R.R. Tolkien
Amy & Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson
VenCo by Cherie Dimaline
If you do not see the title you would like to nominate, please write it in. 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 HERE before nominating! :) There is an alphabetized listing by title as well as a chronological listing.
NOTE: This is the NOMINATION round, which is step one. We will select the top results from this round to create a new poll for a Final Vote to select ONE book for the June 2025 group read.
*** This poll will run from March 26th through April 8th. *** 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...
THE LISTING OF 2025 MONTHLY GROUP READ TOPICS IS HERE!
***
QUESTION OF THE WEEK:
Are you an arrive 15 minutes early or an arrive right on time person or an arrive 5-10 minutes late person?
I ask because I totally spaced today was Thursday and hence, this posting is really late for today. It got me wondering about your typical arrival time. Are you usually early? Right-on-time? Or late? 😊
Today, I am definitely late!
2025 READING CHALLENGES:
Popsugar: 33/50
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 Chelsea Girls by Fiona Davis ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ was absolutely amazing! Wow! I am so anxious to meet her in April! Very unfortunate that this book reflects much of what is now occurring in the U.S. Perhaps in different ways, but it is that same oppressive prejudice and discrimination pervasive in the current leadership. This book has it all! Spies and espionage. Check! Romance. Check! Betrayal. Check! Relationships, relationships, relationships! Check! Check! Check! Really loved this one!
POPSUGAR: #6, #20, #26, #28, #40
ATY: #2, #3, #13, #15, #16, #19, #23, #24, #37, #41, #48
52 Book Club: #2, #22, #32, #33, #36, #39, #41, #51-400 pages
CONTINUING:
*Stand Your Ground by Victoria Christopher Murray
*The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
*The Mostly True Story of Tanner and Louise by Colleen Oakley
*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 Mostly True Story of Tanner and Louise by Colleen Oakley
*The Only Woman in the Room by Marie Benedict
*The Lions of Fifth Avenue by Fiona Davis
*The Dollhouse by Fiona Davis
*The First Ladies by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
*You Were There Too by Colleen Oakley
*The Invisible Husband of Frick Island by Colleen Oakley
*Her Hidden Genius by Marie Benedict
*The Mitford Affair by Marie Benedict
Apologies for my delay. Hoping to have the time tomorrow, Wednesday, April 2, to finalize this.
Ron wrote: "I wish I could say 'happy Friday' but it's not. If anything I've just been distracting myself all day. Got some bad news yesterday. Got kicked out of the program I was in to get my education certificate. I failed a class and if you have this particular grade they automatically drop you. I could appeal it, but there's really no point since it's my own fault.I knew I was failing the class and rather than do anything to fix it, I got in my black hole that I get in sometimes and didn't ask for help until it was too late."
Ah. But. In my experience working in higher education and being a student, most programs will genuinely consider an appeal if you are honest with them about this. Especially if this is the first failing grade you've received. I will mention they may require you to undergo some testing for academic accommodations that could be used to aide you, and/or documentation of diagnosis/treatment regarding your 'black hole'. I have witnessed students being given a second chance so many times for just such a reason. However, with that said, it could be that this is one door closing so another one will open up for you. Perhaps this represents an opportunity to explore further for something that may work better for you and/or be a better fit? Personally, I think you would be an excellent teacher. But I could also imagine you excelling as a bookseller/bookstore employee. Your immense knowledge of and enthusiasm for nonfiction would probably fit a niche that is unfilled in most stores. Library work might be another possibility. After realizing I couldn't wait for a full-time teaching position and working as a staff person in higher education for 25+ years, you just never know what opportunities may arise. Be open to possibilities if you do not choose to appeal your grade. Any place you end up should be grateful to have you, IMO! You appear to be sincere, earnest, and very knowledgeable. I always enjoy your posts! Take it one day at a time...
"In the mean time I'm trying to take my sister's advice. She said that she and my parents don't beat me up in the literal sense (or physical fyi) so why should I do that to myself? Guess she kind of has a point so I'm trying not to get to my dark place."
EXACTLY!! It's tough to pull ourselves out of a bad place sometimes, but I have faith in your ability to do so...just give yourself grace and time. This situation does not define you! You are worthy and talented!
"Thankfully the weekend is coming up so I'm just going to focus on some reading. I'm planning at least 3 books for tomorrow since they're short books that can be done in a day or two."
I hear you!! YAY for books!! 😁
"Into the Wild - Another re-read but it came up on my wrapped TBR and it's one of my favorite books of all time."
I have yet to read this one.
"A Son of the Forest: The Experience of William Apes - Got this book for Christmas last year. Have no idea what it's about but it's a short read so I figure I'll go for it."
Wow. That looks to be awesome! It was first published January 1, 1829! Anxious to see what you think!
"Unmasking for Life: The Autistic Person's Guide to Connecting, Loving, and Living Authentically - I read Devon's book, 'Unmasking Autism' a couple of years ago and it was a life changer! This follow up is what to do once you embrace your autistic self and how to live a life unmasked and on your own terms."
That's so great that you found inspiration from the other book. I hope this one does that as well!
Dubhease wrote: "Lynn:I'm so sorry to hear about your son.
What a horrible week with the car and the cat too."
Everybody experiences those days when you just feel as if you've been beaten up, thrown down, and abandoned. But there's nothing for it but to get right back up and continue... Fortunately, I've learned to take one day at a time. (No, not as AA directs you to do...) Just as a matter of appreciating each and every day for what it brings. Some are more enjoyable than others though! Thank you, Dubhease!
Lilith wrote: "I hope everyone is staying as happy and healthy as is possible. It seems like so many people here are going through grief, loss and disappointments. May your roads be smoother, and your burdens lighter."Beautiful words!
"I have finished lots of Stupid Human Tricks to satisfy unemployment’s latest hurdles. This did cut into my heavy protesting schedule. Friday and yesterday, I made up for lost time! It was so worth it, and I have been running into new friends, which has been wonderful. We seem to be having an effect, and we enjoy being featured on Rachel Maddow's program."
Ooohhh, I am so jealous of your protesting! YAY for you!! Sending you protesting energy! 😁🪄🪄🪄🪄
"I also got some pepper plants, and hope to be getting more vegetable plants. I'll have to be a porch gardener. Excited to be cultivating lovely beings, and since I got denied benefits (I make $10 too much per week), these green darlings may be very helpful."
I miss farming and gardening so much. Ugh. I realize there must be cutoffs, but how disappointing! I wish I had extra money to help you, but retiring earlier than planned has not been helpful financially. I also spent 13 years out of the workforce, staying home with my three sons until they were all in school. But it is what it is. I'm just sorry the help wasn't given to you!
"The Secret History of the Rape Kit: A True Crime Story The title sounds heavy, and the reading can be intense, but it’s so fascinating. Martha Goddard ( she preferred Marty) is such an uplifting hera. She went through enough of her own trauma, and worked hard as a bridge between law enforcement and medical settings to create the rape kit which would assist both systems and help survivors. A woman overlooked by history, and may she be remembered now forever."
Count on you to find such an amazing book!
"Things You May Find Hidden in My Ear: Poems from Gaza Poetry reaches me in a way that novels and non-fiction don’t, and this collection wrecked me, educated me, and put me back together again. I highly recommend if you are even remotely interested in the people of Gaza and what they endured and continue to endure."
I read very little poetry, but I'm recommending this for the store's Bite-Sized Book Club. I think it would be amazing!
"Into the Uncut GrassI see a book by Trevor Noah, I pick it up and read it. This is a beautifully illustrated parable for any age, and an uplift when life and/or reading is getting heavy."
I still have yet to read Born a Crime: Stories From a South African Childhood.
"The Kamogawa Food Detectives If you loved Before the Coffee Gets Cold, you will likely enjoy this too. Healing fiction, big-time style-y. Instead of time travelling, you can have a desired dish that has significance for you created. The characters go through similar emotional and spiritual transformations. Japan and cats, sign me up."
Yes to Japan and cats! This book definitely looks like one I would enjoy!
"QOTW:
I loooove the number 13! It’s cultural for us, 13 moons in a year, other cycles based on 13. It’s very much reverence for feminine energy for us. I don’t look for the number, but if I encounter it, it makes me very happy."
I notice the number 13 often and I like to mention it to others just to see some people squirm. Superstitious beliefs are an interesting human phenomenon!
LeahS wrote: "Lynne, so sorry to hear of your troubles. Much sympathy for the loss of Sissy. I hope things improve for your son. You sound a very strong person, but take things as easy as is possible. Glad the reading is a support to you."Thank you so much, Leah! If positive energy has any impact at all, he should be improving very rapidly! 😊 I have always felt the toughest part of parenting is once they reach adulthood... At least he has begun to accept help. That is progress. He began doing that later the very same evening I visited with him, so although he couldn't really communicate very well, perhaps that helped convince him to be more cooperative. All you can do is love them.
Lilith wrote: "Nadine in NY wrote: "I grew up with dogs, cats, mice, turtles, guinea pigs, chickens, snakes... I am sure I am forgetting someone. I miss all of them!"Oh, my! You made me remember when my middle son (who is now hospitalized and 45 years old) was age 8 and asked if he could get a snake. We had rabbits, a dog and cats outside (due to allergies), and an aquarium with fish. And they raised 4H hogs.
I put my arm around his shoulders and said, "Sure honey! Let's see you are 8 years old now, so only 10 more years until you turn 18 and can live on your own and have as many snakes as you want!" He didn't particularly appreciate my sarcasm. 😉 Sorry, but I had to draw the line at snakes.
Lilith wrote: "@Ron - I'm so sorry to hear about your Friday news. It's a heck of a gut punch. But it's good that you have an option to appeal.You always sounded excited about teaching, and with your love of non..."
I must read your posting, Ron. I haven't gotten to it yet. You are such a gem of a person and I'm sure you would excel as a teacher. (Takes one to know one! LOL 😉)
Lilith wrote: "@L Y N N - I am so sorry to hear about all that you are going through! You and Sissy shared such a special life and love, and I wish you good memories, peace and comfort. Losing a loved one who gives unconditional love is such a journey. And to be dealing with the challenges ahead that your son is facing.... ain't got nothin' but hugs for you. Sending positive vibes that your road may be smoother!"You all have no idea how much you help me at times. And this is definitely one of those times. Thanks so much. Lilith!
Theresa wrote: "@L Y N N - sending you love, strength, and hugs."Thank you, Theresa! I need all of that!!
Carmen wrote: "Oh Lynn, my tears for your loss <333 What you did for Sissy was amazing, and I am so glad she got to live such a good life with you!My deepest sympathies for everything going on with your son as well <3"
Thank you so much! Fingers crossed for more positive experiences soon!
Jennifer W wrote: "Lynn, I'm so sorry to hear of your Sissy passing, but you are right, 15 years is a long time for a kitty who had such a tough start to life. I hope your son gets the help he needs for his mental health and substance abuse. Either one of those is difficult to deal with on its own, together, they're exponentially more painful. And then car problems on top of it all- ugh!! Sometimes, it just feels like the universe is out to get you.."That is true, although you made me laugh! One of my favorite lines is "the Universe aligned"! I think one of the last times I used that was when I managed to avoid involvement in a multi-vehicle pileup on the Interstate as I drove home from the gym late at night on icy/slushy roads. So I should be grateful just to be here and relatively unharmed! Thanks for that inadvertent reminder! I sure hope this is the literal bottom and it can only go up from here!!
Bea wrote: "L Y N N, my heart goes out to you as you deal with the loss of your special fur-baby...and as you deal with the life of your son. So much grief and loss is hard to deal with alone. I am glad you have such a good support network."Thanks much, Bea! This group provides much support and I'm grateful for that!
Part 2!2025 READING CHALLENGES:
Popsugar: 33/50
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:
Just a note about two books I have not yet quite finished, but feel compelled to comment on this week since I may encounter even more emotionally traumatic events in the near future…so may not finish reading any book by next Thursday, let alone these two!
The first is The Rabbit Hutch by Tess Gunty. Let me first say I would NEVER had selected this book to read if not for a book club selection for one of the two IRL books clubs held at a local used bookstore. That said, this was as strange as I expected it to be and I literally am about ¾ of the way finished with it. However, as often happens when I am not exactly thrilled with a book, hearing others’ perspectives and reactions encourages me to either finish reading it and/or have more appreciation for it. I plan to finish it now since I feel as if will be worthwhile to do so and add to my understanding…
Next is The Chelsea Girls by Fiona Davis who is one of the authors participating in the Indy Book Author event I plan to attend with one of my besties in April. I absolutely adore this book thus far and am anxious to read more of Davis’ writing. It is extremely unfortunate that this is set in the McCarthyism era of 1950 when those involved in the arts were being blacklisted for supposed Communist connections and yet, reflects the same type of prejudice and oppression being enacted in the U.S. right now. I have just gotten to the main betrayal in the story line and am anxious to finish it. Hopefully today or tomorrow… And I had no idea that Richard Nixon (a freshman Congressman at the time) was a member of the HUAC (House Un-American Activities Community)! Huh…rather ironic, isn’t it?
*Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ was an enjoyable reading experience for me. Admittedly, dystopia is not my favorite genre/subgenre, especially with how depressing and upsetting our world is right now and my own personal world is currently…but with that said, I would definitely read more of Mandel’s writing. I particularly enjoyed the positive aspects of this dystopian world as well as the interconnectedness of characters. I’m finishing up some final questions, etc., in the group discussion which is HERE! Please feel free to jump in or just lurk and enjoy Ron and DeeRae’s reactions and observations!
POPSUGAR: #6, #7, #14, #24, #25, #31, #40, #49
ATY: #1, #2, #3, #5, #13, #14, #15, #16, #18, #23, #26, #32, #37, #41, #44, #45, #48, #50
RHC: #4, #5, #11, #24
52 Book Club: #2, #18, #22, #33, #38, #42, #43, #51
*The Cat Sitter's Pajamas (Dixie Hemingway #7) by Blaize Clement ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ was a spur-of-the-moment pick-up-a-book-I-think-will-be-highly-entertaining simply to escape my current reality. And it did just that! This series is new-to-me (Yes, I am really into those hyphenated compound phrases/words today!) and I did enjoy this installment and would definitely read more in the series. (Beginning with #1, please!) Though it wasn’t quite as “cozy” as I usually prefer. The complex and complicated character of Dixie is definitely a motive to continue the series! And you know me! Well-defined characterization, please!! The interconnectedness of the criminal characters proved to be unique and compelling for me as well! Clement incorporated complexities involving trans characters, and illegal manufacture and marketing of designer “knock-offs.”
POPSUGAR: #2, #6, #16, #20, #28
ATY: #1-trees, #2, #5, #15, #16, #19, #20, #24, #25, #31, #32, #37, #41, #45, #48
RHC: #24
52 Book Club: #1, #29
I have edited my CONTINUING AND PLANNED listings to reflect books I really want to read prior to the Indy Book Author event in April! I retained those lists, just not here! ‘Cause I always PLAN to read WAY more books than I ever can! LOL I guess there are worse obsessions…
CONTINUING:
*The Chelsea Girls by Fiona Davis
*The Rabbit Hutch by Tess Gunty for an IRL book club meeting this past Sunday.
*Hope in the Dark: The Untold History of People Power by RebeccaSolnit
PLANNED: (for the Indy Book Author event in April)
*Stand Your Ground by Victoria Christopher Murray
*The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
*The Mostly True Story of Tanner and Louise by Colleen Oakley
*The Only Woman in the Room by Marie Benedict
*The Lions of Fifth Avenue by Fiona Davis
*The Dollhouse by Fiona Davis
*The First Ladies by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
*You Were There Too by Colleen Oakley
*The Invisible Husband of Frick Island by Colleen Oakley
*Her Hidden Genius by Marie Benedict
*The Mitford Affair by Marie Benedict
