Tina ❣’s Comments (group member since Mar 09, 2016)

Tina ❣’s comments from the Nothing But Reading Challenges group.

Devann wrote: "here's a few things that are on my shortlist for august since the challenge got officially extended!

[bookcover:Sandman Slim|5776788..."

I'm keen to read Catwoman provided I can get a copy!

Haha all good Nicole!

Okay. I sat down and finished reading this tonight. I did enjoy it!

I found the mannerisms in the way that they speak to be refreshing to read, honestly.

I agree with you guys that this wasn't the best of Agatha Christie, but I haven't read her books that much. I think I'll start to read more of hers after Tower Teams ends.

I really did like Mrs. Oliver in this book. I think I'll read the one's you've said she's in, Cat.

As always, Poirot is awesome. Love his work.

Mrs Buxton-Cox was indeed not a nice lady. I'm glad Desmond realised that.

Did we find out what happened to Edward? Celia's brother? Maybe I missed it

Nicole - I added your buddy read for Crooked Kingdom into the spreadsheets. Let me know if I have any detail incorrect

Let us know how you go! It was a bit challenging for most of us

Looking good team!

Zee - I’m listening to the Tattooist of Auschwitz via audiobook and it’s quite good. Some bits have left me a bit shocked though. Definitely not a light read

DQ 3: Chapters 18 - 28

14. After sharing his theory and brainstorming, Jazz totally manipulated Connie and Howie to get them to go with him to look for evidence instead of calling the Sheriff. (And we've seen him manipulate a lot of people, especially women, before.) What do you think about this behavior?

It's not good. But he is aware of it. I think he'll eventually learn to not use it or to use it wisely (on killers). I don't think it's that bad. I think we are all a bit manipulative. We just have to consider what we're doing, when and why and any consequences. I think people will disagree with me on this but that's okay.

15. Jazz spends a lot of time taking care of his Grandmother, and she is awfully toxic. Why do you think he is so determined to stay with her instead of going to a foster home? Is Melissa right to decide to move him out?

She's family. He get a sense of normalcy there and it's his home. Objectively, yes. It is right to move him out of there.

16. Wow the scene with Ginny was very intense. What did it make you think of with regards to Jazz - his feelings of pleasure conflicting with trying to help? Do you like him any less or more?

No. Anyone could freeze when they seeing someone dying. It's a difficult situation to do something right in it. He is only 17 after all.

17. Erickson keeps showing up and being pretty abusive? Is he a red herring or something more? (Ha I guess don't answer this if you have read this book before - unless you remember what you thought at the time.)

I thought he was the baddie

18. How did the Impressionist know about Jazz's room (or did he?)? Do you think he is going to interact even more with
Jazz now, even though it is against orders?

I have no idea. I want to know whose order's he is following

19. The scene with the dog and learning not to cry was really horrific. I think that interposed with the scene where he cries when talking to Connie are important. Any thoughts?

Yeah damn. That bit left me horrified. I immediately though of my dog and was grateful I could hear her in my home. I'm glad he has Connie and that he talked to her about everything.

20. Speaking of Connie, what do you think about what she said to Jazz in Chapter 28?

Good on her!

21. Is it right for the Sheriff to have Jazz help in the investigation?

No. Jazz shouldn't be involved with the police. But he does help them catch the baddie whoever it is. Jazz can handle it. So I guess it's sort of okay for Jazz to help in order to prevent deaths.

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DQs 4: Chapter 28 - Epilogue

22. Jazz made a shocking decision to go visit Billy after no contact with him. He asks G William to help him get in quickly. Why do you think Jazz finally made the decision to visit Billy? Would you trust what Billy tells you?

I think he wanted answers and help to find the Impressionist. I wouldn't trust everything he said 100%

23. Why do you think Billy’s request to Jazz about moving the birdbath signified? Do you believe it was a signal? Or just another way to mess with Jazz's head?

I think it was a signal for someone to get him out. Smart though

24. The Impressionist tells Jasper that he was never supposed to talk to him or see him, which leads me to believe he was taking orders from someone. Do you think Billy was telling the truth about not having contact with him? Do you have any theories of who is pulling his strings?

No. I don't. I think he had contact directly or through someone else

25. The Impressionist has a pretty terrifying trophy in his finger belt! What do you think is the significance of the dual “L-O-V-E” and “F-E-A-R” tattoos?

He and Billy have something going on

26. “Sure you are. You just ain’t killed no one yet.” Do you think Jazz killed his mother? Or is Billy messing with his head with the note?

I don't think so. I think it would destroy him if he did. I read the plot for the next books so I sort of know the answer

27. Final thoughts of the book and overall rating? Are you intrigued enough to continue on with the series?

I'm glad I nominated this book as July's BOM and happy that it was chosen! It was quite a good read. I think I will. I going to give it a break unless someone wants to buddy read the second one with me in August?

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS - Chapters 7-14 || Day 3

9. First of all, most of us probably have been taught about the Holocaust in school. Do you still remember how you felt when you first heard about it, did it even feel real or important to you at that time? Do you think it is still relevant to learn about today?

My first Holocaust book was Elli: Coming of Age in the Holocaust read in year 8. It was a challenging book. The Holocaust will always be relevant. History will always be relevant.

10. After first encountering Gita Lale couldn't stop thinking about her. He knew she was the one. What do you think has drawn the both of them to each other and why is it so easy for them to trust each other while not knowing what their future holds?

I have no idea what drew them together. Maybe I missed it - I miss things when I'm driving and listening to an audiobook. I think faith and hope held it together for them. Also Gita's friends.

11. The Romani and Lale also seem to have been very quick to trust each other even though Lale has been worried about his 'treasures' when the Romani first were moved into their block. Why do you think they weren't more suspicious of each other? Should Lale generally be more careful about who to trust and what he's doing?

They were all prisoners in the camp. Better to trust each other than the SS. I thought Lale was pretty careful

12. In the beginning of chapter 13 we get to see a couple of different perspectives, not just Lale's, and more of Gita's. Do you like the different perspectives or would you prefer only hearing from Lale's point of view?

I do like the different perspectives. I would have been fine with just Lale's but I'm glad we got to see the others too. I think it was balanced well.

13. It was to be suspected that Gita's family like so many others didn't make it. Lale went to the camp thinking he can protect his family that way. Do you think he already knows/has a feeling about what's actually going on, or does he still have hope that he was able to keep his family from getting taken away too?

I think he had some hope but knew what was most likely to happen

14. Lale immediately felt uneasy around Doktor Mengele before even first properly meeting him. Even the doctor's whistling made him shudder. "A doctor, Lale suspects, who will cause more pain than he eases. (...) He must always be wary of this man whose soul is colder than his scalpel."
Why do you think Lale knew right away that Doktor Mengele would be causing a threat to him? Did you think we would get to see Leon again?

Sometimes you just get a vibe that someone isn't right. That they're bad to you. I think we might

15. Cilka still had this beautiful long hair when Gita first met her, while Gita's and all of the other girls' heads were being shaved regularly. After getting raped by the Senior Commandant Schwarzhuber Cilka's appearance has changed. Even Lale notices her pallor. Do you think anything else is going on?

I was thinking she was pregnant. But she wouldn't be healthy enough to carry. I think it's the trauma

16. After meeting Lale Sokolov in 2003, Heather Morris originally wrote The Tattooist of Auschwitz as a screenplay. She entered the screenplay into several international screenwriting competitions, winning the International Independent Film Awards competition in 2016 and highly placing in several others, including the ISA (International Screenwriters’ Association) and Final Draft competitions.
Would you have preferred or still like to see The Tattooist being made into a movie or come to our screens in one way or another?

I didn't know that! It's pretty interesting. Movies are always good. I haven't been to many plays, so I'm not sure

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS - PROLOGUE - CHAPTER 7 . DAY 1

1. The Tattooist of Auschwitz is a retelling of real life events that happened in one of the darkest periods of human history. Several well known Australians have recommended it including Graeme Simison, author of The Rosie Project who described it as "Extraordinary - moving, confronting and uplifting.. a story about extremes of human behaviour: calculated brutality alongside impulsive and selfless acts of love." I find when I read about this subject I have to mentally prepare myself for a myriad of emotions including anger, indignation and heart wrenching sadness. What expectations do you have as you prepare to start this book?

As sad and angering as it is to read Holocaust books, I also find it educating. I read so I can learn about them and remember them and pass on their stories to those who I know.

2. The Prologue describes the first meeting of Lale and Gita. It is not the beginning of the story and is repeated further on. Why do you think the author starts with this scene?

To give a sense of what we are to expect?

3. Initial impressions of Lale - the life he had and the horror of where he is transported to?

I like Lale. I think it would have been wonderful to know him. It seems like he took in his surroundings quite well. I don't know how much he glimpsed at the concentration camp of the horrors that went one. I feel like now the story telling is about Lale and Gita. Fair enough. I am actually enjoying it. I haven't read many Holocaust books where there's a love interest that starts in a place like that

4. This story has many examples of the best and worst of humanity. What do you think of Pepan's and then Lale's rationale of becoming tattooists? "If you don't take the job someone with less soul than you will and hurt these people more. Working for the Kapo is not the same as defiling hundreds of innocent people."

I see where he is coming from. I definitely agree that it's better for Lale to do it than someone who is mean

5. "To save one is to save the world." What is your interpretation of what this means and how important is it to the prisoners of Auschwitz?

This is the first time I'm hearing the quote. I think it's referring to helping others can lead to a better world. I think it's a wonderful quote to know whilst being there. It's a thought that can give them hope and strength

6. What do you think happened to Pepan and how will this affect Lale going forward.?

I think he was murdered. It wasn't entirely clear. I think Lale moves on but still remembers Pepan.

7. First impressions of Gita? Why do you think her attitude is different from Lale?. Would she have survived if she hadn't met Lale?

She seems nice. You do what you can to survive in a place like that. I think you would have been lucky to have friends in high places. She definitely would have died.

8. Victor and Yuri paint an interesting picture of civilians caught up in war just trying to survive. Thoughts on their different attitudes to the situation and how they are trying to help Lale?

I think Yuri thought he was higher above the Jews but Victor could see past the picture and see what was happening. It was brave of them to sneak food and other things in. I hope they don't get caught.

Yup. It's been officially announced that there's an extension to August 31st.

If anyone cannot play until then, please let the captains know ASAP.

The triwizard tournament will be played in August.

DQ set 2: Chapters 9-17

8. "If I catch killers, then maybe that means I'm not a killer," says Jazz. Howie then goes on to give a great reason why Jazz isn't a killer (love Howie)...are you seeing killer tendencies in Jazz?
No. I just see the thoughts. He was taught how to think like one but it doesn't make him one. It's hard though. I think there will always be a possibility but I don't think he will. It scares him though, understandably.

9. Jazz has another interaction with Jeff Fulton, do you think that Jazz should share information about Billy Dent's victims with their families? If so, how would that impact his mental health?
Yes and no. It shouldn't be Jazz though. I think it's the police's responsibility to answer those questions. And I don't think Fulton has a right to go and find Jazz and ask him. He's still a minor. He should have asked the police to get into contact with Jazz's Gramma and have her permission. Then ask Jazz. But, Gramma's mental health isn't healthy.

10. We see vulnerability in Jazz through the dreams he is having of cutting flesh, that he believes is his mom...and thinking that he killed her. Do you think these are really flashbacks? If so, why?
Ohhhhh I must have missed that it was his mum. I don't know if they were. I hope not D:

11. Enter Office Erikson once again, he comes from the town that one of the ladies was killed lived in, and we saw his behavior when he picked up Jazz from the high school. Why do you think G Williams isn't doing anything about this abnormal behavior and potential connections to the victim?
Probably because they do not think of police as wrong-doers. He wouldn't suspect the newbie. G Williams is/was in denial about the serial killers and evidence is still being gathered.

12. EDIT: Question removed

13. I've read this series and love it, it was actually one of my first book about serial killers (was scared to read them before). Are there other series that you recommend in this genre?
About serial killers, no. I haven't read much of thrillers and murder mystery.
I did read The Seven Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle which was really good! I'm currently reading Elephants Can Remember which is good so far!
I want to read Kathy Reich's book as I love the TV series Bones

I don't remember a Ravenclaw and Gryffindor class either. I was actively looking out for when it's mentioned but it wasn't!

I was wondering which classes the Gryff's are on their own and which they aren't.

I feel like they would have done Charms with the Ravenclaw's as Flitwick is the House Head. It's how it was for Potions and Herbology.

Daniela - I definitely agree with you about Fleur. Mrs Weasley was harsh. I don't fully understand why as she's quite nice most of the time haha

Yes definitely! Fito as role model!

The Georgia Nicholson is written by Louise Rennison. There's 10 books and the first one is
The 1st and 2nd books were made into a movie.
It's basically about a teenage in England, her friends, her family, her boy obsession and hilarity

I'm a bit late to start but I'm liking it so far!

Set 1: Prologue to chapter 5

1. What strikes me is the heartlessness of the fae, or perhaps a better way to say it is their lack of humanity. That curse was so cruel: October was spelled into becoming a fish, and the spell stuck for 14 years, twice the length a human is held in the fae hollow hills. Do you think there is any relevance to the amount of time the spell lasted? Why do you think October calls the 6 months after she emerges from the spell her penance?
There probably is but I'm not sure. I think she calls it her penance as she feels she was doing something wrong... spying on the fae

2. The daughter's name is Gilly and her mother was turned into a fish? Seems like someone should have seen that coming. Ok, the question: If Gilly is a quarter fae, doesn't that make her a changeling as well? If 14 years has passed, it seems she didn't need to make the choice, or she chose human - do you think the choice has been made? What do you think about a daughter not wanting to see her mother - even with just a quarter fae, wouldn't there be some things that are strange in her life? Wouldn't she want some answers?
I don't think so but I'm not sure how a 1/4 of being something works in this book. I think she'd have minor fae abilities that could still be passable as human.
Fair enough, 14 years with out a mother. Gilly probably thought she was abandoned or forgotten. It would take time for Gilly to accept her mum is back and to realise that she would want to see Toby.

3. I laughed at the comparison of cats to Sidhe, "...where both sides said, "I don't need you," and both answered, "You'll still stay." How many cat caretakers (as one never OWNS a cat) out there agree? (Non-cat people: feel free to chime in. ;)
I love cats. I wish I had one but 3 of the 5 family members are allergic and we have a dog and a rabbit already.
Cats love company and I love their independence as well.

4. In these few opening chapters, we are introduced to two characters, Tybalt and Evening, both of whom October seems to have a hate/love or love/hate relationship with, while there is still some sort of a bond. Do you think this typical of the fae, or just October?
I think it's typical. I feel like every book describe Fae a little differently. They're definitely a harsh specie but they can still love... or like

5. After 5 chapters, I am having a hard time understanding October. I know she is a changling and so only half human, but I don't understand why she doesn't go to her child. I am hoping there is more context about her pre-fish years so I have a better view on why she makes the choices she makes. What is your take on October?
I think she doesn't want to push it. If her hubby hung up on October, he's not happy with her and wouldn't want Gilly to see October. She's probably still figuring out how to be human again and get herself together.

6. When October relives Evening's death, she hears Evening say about her: "...she'll find what's been left for her to find, she'll end this mockery at last." What are your guesses about what the "mockery" is? Do you think it has something to do with why the Queen of Mists won’t help find Evening’s killer?
No idea! We shall see!

DQ set 1: Chapters 1 - 8

1. What are your first impressions of Jazz? What is his motivation for spying on the crime scene and requesting to help investigate?
I like Jazz. I feel for him. I hope he saw a therapist about what he's been through. I think it's him wanting to do good in the world... the opposite of his dad.

2. "Ever since arresting Dear Old Dad four years ago, G. William had kept in touch with Jazz...". How would you characterize the relationship between Jazz and G. William? Why is the sheriff so adament about one body not meaning a serial killer? Is he trying to protect Jazz, himself, or both?
Probably both. Jazz is still in school and I think William wants him to stay in school and focus on it. Not on crime and murder. I think he's still trying to make Jazz be a normal kid

3. Howie has been the only friend who stayed with Jaspar after his father's exposure. Jaspar claims that he needs Howie to keep him "close to the line of safety and legality". Do you think Howie realizes what Jazz needs from him? Why doesn't he get angry when Jazz gets him into trouble?
Yeah I do. I think Howie probably wants to escape his illness and Jazz might be the only one who treats him normally... Not sure as we don't know a lot about Howie yet. They're good friends.

4. Deputy Erikson has caught Jazz's attention twice now with his behavior at the crime scene and his unexplained appearance at the morgue. Do you agree with Jazz's assessment of the deputy, or do you think there is a reasonable explanation for his actions?
I agree with Jazz's assessment

5. The Impressionist states he "had been given a rule" not to interact with or harm Jaspar. Who do you think might have given him that rule and why?
Oh man it's creepy. I think someone's told him to do this. The body could be a message for Jazz from his father. He might have hired someone to kill and his dad knew Jazz would investigate and therefore hidden a message in it. Probably not though.

6. Jazz has the mantra, "People matter. People are real.", as a screensaver and pictures of all his father's victims in his room? Do you think this actually helps or hurts him? Is Connie right about letting go of the past?
Probably both. It's a difficult thing to move on from. I can't even imagine what he'd have gone through. She's right, but it's easier said than done

7. "His upbringing... told him that women were simultaneously special and useless." How do the three women in his life (Connie, Melissa, and Gramma) match with what he has been taught? Do they reinforce or challenge the idea? What kind of influence are they on Jazz?
No one is useless. His dad is just twisted mentally. I think Connie is a great influence on Jazz. Probably the best. I'm glad he is with her

I did think it was funny when Sal mentioned to his dad that Sam taught him that! I kept thinking... (view spoiler)['okay here it comes, the secret romance that Sal has for Sam'. But nope! (hide spoiler)]

Parents - (view spoiler)[That's what I thought. I found it interesting that the three had dead mothers and inadequate biological fathers (Fito's dad was okay, at least he tried). They sort of adopted each other as well. (hide spoiler)]

And yes! I actually really love how Sáenz addressed Sal's anger. I think it would help a lot of teenagers understand themselves and learn how to deal with it. I don't think anger is talked much about in high schools and I think it should be.

Vincente - Good points! (view spoiler)[I think how Vincente came to accept Marcos' apology and explanation was done realistically. The acceptance of him into the family as well.
I think it's important to read books where the characters are realistic, relatable, and possible to use as a role model. I know when I was in my young teens, the books I read helped shape who I am today (mainly Harry Potter and the Georgia Nicholson series). I think it would help teenagers relatable to Fito know that there's good in the world and help available. (hide spoiler)]

But yeah! I definitely want to read Aristotle and Dante. Hopefully in August.

**AUGUST BOOK OF THE MONTH

Hi all,

I hope everyone's reading has been going well this week.

The August book of the month have been released.

1. The Adult book is by Paula Hawkins
Starts August 2nd

2. The YA book is by Wendy Spinale
Starts August 16th

3. The mods have taken over the BOM again with by Ilona Andrews - Book 10 in the Kate Daniels series
Starts August 28th

I've signed up for Discussion Questions for books 1 and 2. Let's hope Team Tonks gets one in August!

I'm in for DQ's for Team Tonks

This sounds interesting! I'm in for DQ's for Team Tonks

Zee - I'll leave it at 512

Thanks for pointing it out Karishma. I've fixed it up.

And your BOM is all sorted too Teri.