Vicki’s Comments (group member since May 01, 2018)

Vicki’s comments from the Nothing But Reading Challenges group.

Overall I adored this book! I gave it 4 stars but contemplated 5. Had I read the entire physical copy instead of listened to a lot it on the road while driving, I probably would have connected even more. Either way, it's a really good book!

I was so angry with Jude when I found out that she (view spoiler)[hadn't mailed in his application. I never had that type of jealousy or thoughts of hurting each other in my family. I have 3 siblings and never experienced anything but support from them so I can't relate. But it really upset me that Jude did that. (hide spoiler)]

Cathy M. wrote: "Slowing getting thru this :) Hating how these chapters are SOOOOO long & not broken up more.

Thru 64% - 2nd Jude Age 16 -

Loved the addition of Brian... until that stupid game messed everything ..."

I must say that it disturbed me that Jude (view spoiler)[did that to Noah. It was obvious and well-known to her that Noah liked Brian, so I felt like it was purposeful to get at him for some reason. I never felt like it was "innocent" or because she really liked Brian too and "all's fair in love and war." Siblings should NEVER EVER do that to each other! Even though Jude and Brian didn't really do anything, Noah didn't know that and she didn't even try to tell him they didn't. (hide spoiler)]

Cathy M. wrote: "Haven't been able to read too much of this one yet but am at 15% (after 1st Judy Age 16) -

Interesting that this book is written in 2 different timelines (starts with them at 13, then 3 years lat..."

I was also literally sickened (view spoiler)[when I read the bullying scene, especially because I KNOW it is realistic and happens far too often in this life. I used to teach a class that included discussing at length "tolerance." One thing I learned is that the MOST COMMON crime committed against another person for "no reason" is physical crimes committed against people in the gay community. All they have to do is be or appear to be gay. So terribly sad and ignorant! (hide spoiler)]

Grandma (view spoiler)[ I was curious too about her ghost and at first confused because I was driving all day and listening to some of the book without reading (which I do not like to do) and at first I thought the ghost was their mother.) But it makes sense to me because I think a lot of people talk to deceased people. I wonder if she literally saw her because (if I remember correctly) Noah never did. I feel like she helped Jude. (hide spoiler)]

JanEyre9 wrote: "Vicki wrote: "I just started this one so I’ll join! I’m on Team Hermione Granger. :)"

How do you like it so far Vicki?"

I loved this one! I'm sorry I didn't see your message until now. I totally forgot we had this buddy read until someone reminded me. LOL Ugh...that horrible forgetfulness disease!

Elen wrote: "Vicki wrote: "I finished my SUN book for the classes! FINALLY! LOL

finished 6/28 (but was on vacation without a PC) and I just got home and posted it rig..."

Absolutely! I didn't realize we had a buddy read for this one. Thanks!

Completion Post

Book Title: Caught Up in Us
Author: Lauren Blakely
Date read: 7/03/18
Number of pages: 252
BOM/BR: No
Character Names: Bryan Leighton, Kat Harper, Professor Oliver, Jill, Wilko, Nate
Letters: B, H, J, K, L, N, O, W

Erin ☕ *Proud Book Hoarder* wrote: "Vicki wrote: "I finished my SUN book for the classes! FINALLY! LOL

finished 6/28 (but was on vacation without a PC) and I just got home and posted it rig..."

No problem. Sorry it took me so long.

Book Title: Accidentally Married
Author: Victorine E. Lieske
Date read: 7/02/18
Number of pages: 314
BOM/BR: No
Character Names: Annie, Carrie, Darlene, Madison Nichols, Jared, Patricia, Irene, Shelly, Zachary, Pastor Ryan, Veronica
Letters: A, C, D, I, J, M, N, P, R, S, V, Z

Book Title: Leah on the Offbeat
Author: Becky Albertalli
Date read: 7/01/18
Number of pages: 343
BOM/BR: Yes, BOM Link to BOM Thread
Character Names: Leah Burke, Simon Spier, Anna, Morgan, Taylor, Nora, Red, Cal, Abby Suso, Bram, Garrett, Jessica Keane, Wells, Eisner, Patti, Victoria
Letters: A, B, C, E, G, J, K, L, M, N, P, R, S, T, V, W

Discussion Questions // Chapters 29-35 // June 8 & 9

19. Leah and her mom discuss the idea of the "perfect prom night." Her mom has fond memories of her own prom night, but Leah thinks the perfect prom night is a cliche. Where do you fall in this discussion?

I agree with Leah! Nothing in life is truly perfect but it can be perfect in the eyes of an individual.

20. There are several royal references in this section of the book - Leah's mom being into Prince William (I have to admit, I always thought Harry was the cuter prince) and Taylor's dress looking like Kate Middleton's wedding dress. Do you follow the royal family?

I don't follow any royalty or celebrity. The closest I come is following authors' new books.

21. Leah finally spends a little time with Wells and they have a little bit of a bonding moment over the fact that he didn't have a lot of money growing up either. I love how this conversation parallels the idea that Leah feels guilty over her mom purchasing the dress and wish we had seen a bit more of Wells - he seems like a good guy. What do you think of him?

I think he's trying really hard in a difficult situation. The shopping for a bra was a bit too uncomfortable for Leah and probably Wells too. I'd die! I haven't seen anything to really have reason to dislike him.

22. Morgan apologizes to Leah about the Abby comment but Leah isn't sure how to deal with "secondhand forgiveness" and whether she should forgive Morgan because Abby's forgiven her. What are your thoughts on this, I definitely agree that it's messy!

I believe that we are all imperfect, so there are times I've needed forgiveness. I would like to hope that we all can and do forgive. It would be different if Morgan said things all the time instead of just making one comment when she was upset/jealous.

23. This isn't really a question, but I couldn't get through these questions without making a point of the American Girl Bistro they ended up having their pre-prom dinner at. Poor Garrett, he means to well! I'm glad the group made the best of it - did your prom have any strange mix-ups?

LOL I have NO idea! My prom was 40 years ago and I only remember what I wore and that's probably because I have pictures.

24. When faced with the reality that Abby is into her, Leah turns practical on the whole situation and insists that they need to wait - worried about the effects it would have on Nick, Garrett, and the tenuous threads holding their friend group together. She then realizes that isn't what she wants, and runs back for her cliche prom kiss. Do you think Leah spent so much time worrying about other people's happiness that she didn't give her own any attention?

I think that happens quite often. I think she gave her own happiness attention but that she was conflicted much of the story.

25. What did you think of the book overall? If you haven't read Simon vs The Homosapien Agenda, do you think you'll be reading it now? Any other final thoughts?

I did read book 1 and I honestly liked it a bit more.

DQs Day 3 6 & 7 June

13. There are several references to ‘dog-earing’ books. What are your thoughts on this practice?

I totally hate dog-earing whether it's me (but I don't) or someone else. Like if I get a library book and there are pages that had been dog-eared it upsets me.

14. Abby is reading Harry Potter, one of Leah’s favorite series. She comments on how much she loves her art and says she ‘would pay for it’. Do you think Abby is being truthful or just trying to impress Leah? Have you ever done something like this and how did it turn out for you good or bad?

I think that Abby is most likely being honest; however, she could like the art work partly because of who did it. Like a mother would love her child's artwork even though it's not artistic from the standpoint of the quality of art. I haven't done that.

15. Leah and Abby attend a college party during their spring break ‘road trip’. Leah has some success with playing the drums for the group gathered there. She really downplays how well she did and she downplays herself quite a bit in when she’s with Abby. Why do you think she’s doing this…to me anyway, she seemed a lot more confident at the start of this book?

My first inclination was to say that we often downplay ourselves because of a lack of confidence unless we have a specific reason. I assume maybe it's her confidence she needs more of.

16. Since Abby ‘stole’ Leah’s first kiss things have taken a significant turn in their relationship. Abby has admitted to somewhat ‘coming out’ with cousins. Leah is offended by this but hasn’t really ‘come out’ with her friends. Do you believe Leah is being fair with Abby? What are your thoughts on her continued reluctance to at least come out with her best friend Simon? What about Nick…what would you do considering Nick’s recent relationship with Abby?

I don't think Leah is being fair. I think one's sexuality/sexual orientation is very, very personal and it's no one's business unless and until you want to or feel the need to tell someone. I don't go around telling people I'm straight. But I think since Leah hasn't tole anyone but her mother (and I'm glad she could do that), that she should understand Abby more.

17. What are your thoughts about Leah asking Garrett to prom and the conflicting budding relationship she’s having with Abby? Is she being fair to Garrett and if not, what should she be doing?

I think it's quite understandable that she ask Garrett to the prom. I don't know. She claims to be bi-sexual but it seems like she's fighting her feelings for Abby. I don't think she should be straight with Garrett so he doesn't feel led on. But I understand that she's conflicted and she's a teenager in high school, so I get it.

18. Leah loves ‘the dress’. But she has a tremendous amount of guilt about her mother purchasing it for her. What are your thoughts about this guilt? If you don’t mind sharing, tell us about a personal prom dress experience.

I don't think she should feel guilty. My mom was a hair dresser, so she or my dad (he was a hair dresser too) always did my hair for prom and Mom let me use her white fox fur. I felt beautiful at prom but don't remember too much since I'm a lot older now. I just know I loved going and dressing up.

Discussion Questions Chapter 10-18 4 & 5 June

8. So, Abby seems to be an annoying type of girl who will talk your ear off. How do you feel about Abby and how the other girls treat her? How do you feel when Leah invites Abby on the road trip?

I think Abby is just outgoing and trying to make friends. I like her as of now. It was Abby who invited Leah on a road trip. I thought it was another attempt to make friends or more than friends. I don't see any problem with it.

9. In chapter 13, we catch a glimpse of her mom. Do you like it when moms are so overprotective and want to do everything for their daughter together?

Absolutely NOT! As difficult as it is to "let go" as a mother, I believe that children need to learn to be dependent and that they become more self-confident. I do think it's good that her mother likes to be involved but she shouldn't go over the top.

10. How do you feel about Abby flirting with Leah? Do you think that they could have a relationship and it last?

I think her flirting is fine. She must have an indication that Leah is bi-sexual or have hopes of it. Whether they can have a relationship that will last can't be known but it's certainly possible.

11. How do you feel about Morgan being racist. What would you do in this situation?

I have been known to speak up to racist people because it's terribly ignorant and/or coming from someone who thinks he/she is superior. I don't believe ANY race is superior simply due to the color of their skin. STUPID! So I'd put her in her place.

12. My feelings definitely changed for Abby. Have your feeling changed towards Abby? If so, then what changed and why?

I've liked Abby from the get-go and I still do, so my feelings haven't changed for her as of now.

Discussion questions Chapters 1-9 2 & 3 May:

1. Have you read Simon vs The Homo Sapiens Agenda? Maybe seen the Movie yet? (I haven't, it is not out in The Netherlands yet) Did you like the book/movie? For me it was a while since I read Simon, but some of the characters stuck in my mind so for me it helps with the dynamics of Leah's group of friends.

Yes, I read Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda in April 2015 and gave it 5 stars. I haven't seen the movie, but I'd like to see it.

2. From what I've read so far I love the references to fandoms, fanfiction and reading. A quote for the Slytherins among us: "I'm basically your resident fat Slytherin Rory Gilmore.", Do you think this describes Leah?

I loved all of the allusions! I do think that this reference describes Leah pretty well.

3. I love the friendship between Simon and Leah. Did you have a friendship like theirs in high school?

I can't say that I did. I honestly didn't know any openly gay people in my teen years; however, I did have friends that I was close to and could be myself.

4. "Imagine going about your day knowing someone's carrying you in their mind. That has to be the best part of being in love - the feeling of having a home in someone else's brain. What's the best of being in love for you? Do you agree with Leah?

I think the best part of love is knowing that someone is always there to care about your needs, passions, good/bad days, and that they always carry you in their heart and mind.

5. Do you read fanfiction like Leah does? Or make fanart like she is making? Do you post art or pictures you make on Instagram or Tumblr? Do you maybe write fanfiction, if you do what kind and which fandom?

NO, I am so not talented artistically! I use Facebook and am just now learning to use Instagram. I don't know what Tumblr is. Does that date me? LOL

6. What do you think of Leah's group of friends? Do you like them?

I like most of them and most of how they are. I like that they are imperfect and so typical, I think, of their age group.

7. Will Morgan's rejection letter break up the group of friends? What did you think of her reaction as to why she did not get in to the university? Do you agree with Leah's reaction?

I think they might "break up" simply due to becoming adults and going off to college. It wouldn't be feasible to follow each other and lasting relationships from high school throughout college years is difficult to include them all. I thought her reaction was somewhat typical (I taught high school and saw this) in that she had to blame something/someone other than herself. Students definitely don't understand whey so-and-so got in when they were "better students" GPA wise, but they might not understand all that goes into selections. However, I thought that Morgan's reaction to it and her comments were totally uncalled for, racist, and perhaps indicative of a lack of character.

Book Title: Red Fox
Author: Karina Halle
Date read: 6/29/18
Number of pages: 324
BOM/BR: No
Character Names: Dex Foray, Will, Sarah, Perry Palomino, Bird, Rudy, Maximuss
Letters: B, D, F, G, M, P, R, S

✿ Claire ✿ ~ Foxgard wrote: "Hooray for Gryffindor !!!!

"

WOOT! WOOT! GOOOOOOOOOOO Gryffinder!

I finished my SUN book for the classes! FINALLY! LOL

finished 6/28 (but was on vacation without a PC) and I just got home and posted it right away.

Book Title: I'll Give You the Sun
Author: Jandy Nelson
Date read: 6/28/18
Number of pages: 371
BOM/BR: Yes Link to BR
Character Names: Noah, Jude, Brian, Courtney, Zephyr, Fry, Heather, Dexter, Guillermo
Letters: B, C, D, F, G, H, J, N, Z

Morgan, I’ll read For Finlay and Wonder with you. I’ve read the others but not sure about the Assassin one. I’ll figure it out when I’m not on my phone.

Book Title: Complicate Me
Author: M. Robinson
Date Read: 6/24/18
Number of pages: 397
BOM/BR: No
Character Names: Alex Collins, Lucas Ryder, Savannah, Nathaniel, Dylan McGraw, McKenzie, Austin Taylor, Hunter, Jacob Foster, Lee, Ginger
Letters: A, C, D, F, G, H, J, K, L, M, N, R, S, T