Tracey’s Comments (group member since Jul 17, 2016)

Tracey’s comments from the Sir Walter Scott Appreciation group.

Rosemarie wrote: "I generally found that Effie was not a convincing well-developed character. She changes from a foolish girl to elegant woman of the upper class- it doesn't work for me."

I agree that Effie was not developed as well as Jeanie. It was as if Scott put all his thoughts and efforts into Jeanie and Effie was an afterthought he had to cobble together.

Lori wrote: "I remember finding the accounts of Effie's son a bit tiring. And I was worried he would kill Jeannie's husband and was so worried because I really wanted a happy ending for them. I was relieved the..."

I found this part of the story the least satisfactory and wished Scott had reworked it.

Rosemarie wrote: "I really enjoyed The Pioneers but loved Doctor Thorne. It is one I am going to reread."

Yes Doctor Thorne and all the Basetshire chronicles are now on my shelves.

Lori wrote: "Thanks! We're staying with my mom right now and trying to get settled in."

When we first moved to Canada we stayed with a family for 6 weeks until our home was ready and we only knew them via the internet. (they homeschooled and I did and we went to the same church). They had 5 very gregarious girls, a husky dog, several cats and a pot bellied pig all on 1 acre of land. At the time I felt overwhelmed but looking back I remember it as one of the best times of my life. My 2 children certainly enjoyed it (aged 7 and 2 at the time). It appears to me that there is indeed a time and season for all things and that when changes occur, don't fight it or expect anything of anyone (most especially oneself) but just let it play out as it will.

My challenge is complete for the first, bronze, level. My favourites I think were The Pioneers and Doctor Thorne.
I read:
4 English authors
2 Scottish authors
1 Irish author
1 American author
1 French author
1 Russian author

Rosemarie wrote: "Jeanie continues to be a strong and resourceful person and her persistence has paid off. Her sister's life will be spared. Her journey back to Scotland is much calmer than the trip to London. The D..."

Reading about Jeanie made me stop and wonder what I would have done in her place. I want to be a person of integrity and truth but I am not sure I would have been as strong as Jeanie when my sister's life was on the line; for myself I may have but that of a loved one, I am not so sure. For me it would have been a subject of earnest prayer.

Rosemarie wrote: "The Queen impressed me during the encounter with Jeanie. At first Caroline was hesitant to grant her wish but Jeanie succeeded in convincing her. The money in the sewing kit was a nice touch."

From what I understand she was a remarkable sovereign and like all that are such, was capable of learning and adapting according to the needs of her people and country.

Lori wrote: "I think I remember hearing that Jeannie's character was based on a real person.

I wanted to go skim through this book again so I could participate in the discussions, but I don't think I'll be ab..."

Lori, good luck with your move. I understand international living having lived in the UK, Canada and the US and such upheavals do take time and energy. I read mainly children's books when I am undergoing stressful changes. Whenever you are ready I am sure your Goodreads friends will be glad to hear from you.

I finished the novel despite the 'distractions' and found solace within the written word. The very best of heroines is found in this story; Jeanie Deans. I loved this book and Scott did not disappoint me. Highly recommended to those who love novels of virtue and integrity.

Rosemarie wrote: "Tracey, that is not good at all!"

No it isn't and it has been a very stressful time. But like all adversity, I always learn the most about myself and who are my true friends and so it has not been a totally unproductive time :) ( this is me trying to be positive in the midst of it all lol).

Rosemarie wrote: "My goal this year is to read books from my own collection whenever possible."

When you have chosen one for the first decade I will post it on the bookshelf and anyone who wants to buddy read our choices can contact us.

I am sorry but I am way behind in my reading. I was flooded out of my apartment by a faulty washing machine that was stuck on rinse cycle and overflowing for 9 hours before it was discovered. I had to get all my things out and am staying with a friend for now. Everything is in boxes.

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At the close of this week's reading Jeanie meets Queen Caroline. From the story what is your opinion of the Queen?

http://royalcentral.co.uk/blogs/the-w...

Do you think Scott portrayed her well using the above as a reference?

Rosemarie wrote: "I am sure George was a very smooth talker always used to getting his own way, with little thoughts for others. I am sure he was also very charming and good looking, so the two girls didn't stand a ..."

I think in the story it says that he could be charming and generous when he wants and at other times selfish and thoughtless.

Rosemarie wrote: "I feel pity for Madge and revulsion for her mother. Madge has lost her mind due to the loss of her baby and abandonment by George.
I don't think Jeanie knew how far away London was in miles, only t..."

I also feel the same way about Madge and her mother. Her mother is almost a witch like figure in the story. I really don't think much of George. He is a philanderer who uses women and seems very dissolute by the life choices he has made.
Do you think the story is based on a true story of a woman called Helen Walker who did what Jeanie did to save her sister's life? Or is that a made up tale?

1. What is your opinion of George Staunton aka Robertson, after this week's reading?

2. What attraction could he have to 2 young women who were both seduced by him?

3. What do you think happened to Effie's baby and Madge's?

I have noticed the names Scott gives to his characters and reminds me very much of Dickens. For instance; Mr. Whackabairn the school master.

1. What do you think of the suggestion of Mr. Saddletree to ask for 1/2 day off for the school to go see the hanging of Effie?

2. Jeanie sets off on foot from Edinburgh to London which is approximately 670 miles. Could you imagine such a journey? Plot a journey from where you live to 670 miles or 417km and imagine doing this trip. This is a very courageous journey amidst unknown perils.

3. What do you feel for Madge Wildfire? Pity? Revulsion?

4. What is the difference between her and her mother?

5. What do you think of George Robertson after hearing Madge's tale?

Rosemarie wrote: "I don't remember the passages as being particularly long, since they didn't slow down my reading.
Compared to digressions by other authors of the 19th century, in particular Jules Verne, they were..."

They didn't slow me down as such, just I was not so sure they were necessary to the story which I have not found in his other works I have read. Maybe just me!