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

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

I have a challenge going on that I have to read 7 books for by July 31, so I'm adding those books. If I get lucky and can use them for anything other than a spell out, I'll add it for that. Not looking too promising though.

Carrie wrote: "The Sword of Kaigen

Thanks for the heads up. I grabbed it but I’m really hesitating because I’m intimidated by the extensive list of characters and words at the beginning of the book!"

Carrie, I hear ya! I had that same feeling but I have to agree with Jenny and Angie. The names because second nature and the plotline was really good. There are some action packed, intense scenes and I loved this one! If you decided to read it, I hope you enjoy it too.

DQ'S Day 3 Chapter 8 - Chapter 12

10. Mamoru is becoming more friends with Kwang Chul-Hee and seems to be rebelling more and finally has a fall out with his father. Do you think his father would have hit Mamoru again if Misaki wouldn't have accidentally interrupted?

That was a difficult scene for me to read. I most definitely think that he'd have gotten even more carried away and God knows what else he could've done in the moment. I felt like he snapped so thankfully they were interrupted. I don't care what era, culture, etc. his dad carried it way too far!

11. Are you understanding their powers and magic system more through these last few chapters and the fighting that has occurred. Which power would you want?

I think I understand mostly but I am not 100% sure that I could explain it with confidence. I guess I'm still in the "learning" phase. I don't know which one I would but when I read that Mamoru could control blood and he got a sheet of water from the air and ran it over Kwang's leg, I thought, "Wow! That would be cool to be able to do that," so I guess I'd want that power.

12. Misaki received a letter from her friend and told her to run and get out of town. With the Emperor keeping it a secret. Do you think anyone else knew war was coming? And why they are attacking such an isolated village?

Oh my gosh, that scene angered me SO much! So her husband just stood over her and watched her while she read it. How intimidating and invasive!

As for whether others knew, I think it's highly unlikely that many people outside the highest levels of government or military leadership knew. Misaki's friend who sent the letter is part of a hidden network with connections to truth-suppressing forces, if I understood correctly. The fact that the Emperor is keeping it a secret suggests it's not just about military strategy; it's about control and manipulation. Even the Matsudo family, who are known for their warrior strength and loyalty to the empire, are being kept in the dark. This is a huge red flag. To me, this implies that the government is deliberately sacrificing the Kaigenese coast, possibly because it doesn't want its most loyal fighters to know in case they might resist or tell others.

I think they attack the isolated village because of its strategic location: Kaigen's coastal location gives it military significance. If an enemy controls it, they might get a fooghold on the mainland. It would also weaken the Empire from within. If the attackers destroy a loyal warrior village, they'd undermine morale, reduce the Empire's military might, and it would it would cover up corruption.

So, I think the tragedy is that the villagers are completely unprepared for the betrayal that's about to hit them.

DQs Day 2
Chap 5 to 7

6. What do you think about the hierarchy of the villages and the Matsudos and Yukinos being the "rulers" of the mountain?

I don't think the mountain is just a geographic location. It's symbolic of strength, endurance, and I'd say tradition. And at the very top of that mountain both literally and socially is the Matsudo family, descended from the legendary sword-wielders of Kaigen. I think the village both revere and fear them. The yakinos also have a legacy, but Misaki married into the more prestigious Matsudo line.

7. We get to know the history of the relationship between the Matsudos and the Kotetsus. Do you think this relationship / the Kotetsu family will play an important role later on in the story? If so, how?

I think there's too much tension between the Matsudos and Kotetsus for it not to explode later. I think the Kotetsus family may become either a symbol of rebellion or a beacon of hope, depending on how things unfold. I also think Mamoru might be he bridge between the two. He's brilliant, curious and loyal but he's forced into a narrow warrior mold, but I think he'll challenge that and become a new kind of leader, blending tradition and intellect. Guess we'll see.

8. In chapter 6, we find out that Misaki was a real badass in her past. Was there anything that stuck out to you when getting to know her backstory? Something interesting, shocking, odd?

I was just surprised at just how well she was able to fight Texca. She's definitely a badass warrior. When she challenge Kinoro I thought she was going to kick his butt, but she didn't so I was surprised. But the master offering (demanding) to train her was a real surprise to me that he felt she needed it. So, he being the best of the best he knows what a great warrior needs so I guess she isn't really there yet!

9. The conversation between Misaki and Mamoru was heartwarming. Do you think we will see both of them side by side as warriors by the end of the book?

I absolutely think they will, especially because I think Mamoru will rise as a leader.

LOL I'm sorry for being a pest, but thank you both of you, Jenny and Angie. I was referring to Half Moon. :)

DQs Day 1
Ch 1 to 4

1.) Had you heard of this book before it was nominated for/was selected to be a BOM this month? Or read other books by the author? Any expectations going in?

No, in fact I hadn't heard of it until I saw it posted on our SS for the TT Challenge. I've never read a book by him nor heard of the author until seeing this book. I have no real expectations except based on the GR ratings, I assume it's be pretty good.

2.) How effective is the author at conveying the isolationist nature of Kaigen? And at the glimpses of what the rest of the world is really like? How do you think the Emperor has managed to do this so effectively?

I think the author is quite effective at conveying Kaigen's isolationist culture through detailed worldbuilding, cultural practices, and the strong emphasis on family and village loyalty.

3.) Misaki is an interesting character with a lot of repressed or hidden depths I think. I like that one of the main characters in an epic fantasy is not a 20 something who just happens to master everything in 5 pages. What are you most curious about her at the moment. Also, shout out to her friends, who seem like real women-friends. Yay!

What I'm most curious about is what exactly is she hiding about her past and why? She's obviously been trained herself so why hide it because she's obviously suppressing skills and instincts? And how did she end up in a pretty submissive and domestic role in an isolationist, patriarchal village?

4.) Tekure (husband/father) has managed to make me hate him without even popping up on page yet. Go him. Do you think we'll get a scene where Misaki does her version of 'down with the patriarchy' before the end of the book?

I fully expect a moment where Misaki reclaims her power publicly and breaks traditional expectations.

5.) What do you think of the magic system so far?

I like it so far and I think it's being beautifully restrained. They magic system isn't just cool, it's meaningful for the characters. The fact that it's passed down and practiced through generations of disciplined training gives it the feel of an ancient tradition. It feels both mystical and martial. It's also clear (to me) that skill, control, and mental focus are just as important as raw power.

I have a book that I read and it's on the mini-two traveling tab. There are two other unread books, so I'm not sure if mine was used/can be used etc. I know you two are on top of things though.

I don't have a midlevel book, but I'll find one!

I'm so happy that we maintained 1st place! I really want to win this one. I'm going to focus on a few country books and the next BOTM.

DQs Day 5
Chapters Fourteen - Seventeen

20. Well, I think we all knew that we were going to end up with Norma turning out to really be the lost girl and her being reunited with her biological family. Do you have any thoughts you'd like to share on that reunion? Or a comparison you'd like to venture between what we know of both of Norma's families?

There's something especially poignant in how understated the actual reunion is. I didn't find it to be a sweeping emotional crescendo, it's cautious and layered with confusion and grief. That made it more realistic because trauma doesn't evaporate the moment truth is uncovered. Norma (or Ruthie) has been shaped by the life she lived, just as her bio family has been shaped by her absence. They don't instantly fall into place like pieces of a puzzle.

The "adoptive family" is emotionally distant and reshaped her. They often withheld warmth, especially her mother figure. Lots of control, secrets and suppression.

The biological family felt deep grief, of course, but also were open. They never stopped searching or hoping. Their memories or Ruthie remain vivid, preserved, and they remember her real identity. When they realize who she is their reacion is full of love and devastation at the same time. They want to know her, not own her.

21. Aunt June stays true to her word. She promised to help find Norma's real family and she managed to find the article that would bring this family reunion about. Do you think the conflict between the two women was well handled? From the moment Norma gave in to her anger and yelled at June to the moment where June told her that going to meet her family was not something for her to intrude upon.

I thought it was well-handled because it seemed emotionally honest. Neither woman is reduced to a villain or a saint and their confilct reflects the very real tension that can exist bewteen loyalty, control, and gratitude. When Norma lashes out at June, it's not just about the moment, but it's about years of questions she wasn't allowed to ask and truths that were withheld. Her anger is raw and understandable.

What makes June's resolution so powerful is that she doesn't respond with more control or defensiveness. Instead she shows a level of self-awareness and humility. She steps back and lets go, even though I'm sure it hurt her. I think it actually shows growth on both women's parts.

Obvioulsy, the relationship between the two is complicated, just like real family bonds often are, especially ones formed through trauma and secrets.

23. All in all, were you satisfied with the book? The story - did you enjoy following along Norma's and Joe's lives? The writing - did you enjoy the way the words flowed over the page, painting a world and its landscapes without however overusing words? Or maybe that's just my opinion - that it flowed nicely and pulled the reader along like a boat gently rocking on water.

Yes, overall I did enjoy the book, the storyline, and the writing.

24. Would you read another book by this author? Do you maybe have recommendations for Native American literature that you'd like to share with the group?

I would read more by this author. I can't think of a book off the top of my head, but I know I've read some good ones. Blame it on my bad memory.

DAY 2 QUESTIONS - CHAPTERS 4-7

7. "But sometimes I think that sadness drilled down deep and some of it might just be there for good"
"now get lost and leave me to my book."
"There was love in that house but none of us really knew what to do with it."
In chapter four we learn more about Norma's parents and life in their house as she grew up. Does learning about Lenore's past make you more sympathetic to her? And how about their parenting style, I can't imagine ever telling my children or grandchildren "to get lost" because I wanted to read a book. (Ok, I'm sure all parents might have thought it at times, but saying it to a child is a definite no no in my book!)

Yes, but not in a way that excuses her actions. It does add context and depth that might make me feel a little sympathy or at least understand her better, but it also sharpens the tragedy of what she chose to do. Sympathy doesn't erase accountability. It doesn't justify taking a child and trying to rewrite her identity.

Her parenting style is emotionally controlling, rooted in guilt, fear, and a desire for possession rather than nurturing. She's overprotective to the point of suffocation. I believe she really loves Norma, but herl ove is performative. It's based on possession and fear, not empathy. Like she is trying to convince herself that their relationship is normal when it isn't.

8. In juxtaposition to Frank, Lenore and Norma, we have alternating chapters about family life from Joe's POV. Thoughts and why does the author structure the novel this way?

I think the alternating structure is essential to the emotional depth and message of the novel. It builds dramatic irony and emotional tension as well. Joe's chapters are filled with guilt, trauma, and a life warped by unresolved grief. Norma's chapters show a more subtle tragedy: a girl raised in privilege but emotionally disconnected and unsure of her place in the world.

9. Chapter 5 - the horrible incident with Frankie and Charlie. How did you feel reading about this injustice? Could anything been done to avert this tragedy? How does Amanda Peters' writing the scene add to the heartbreak?

Wow! 3 questions in 1. lol It was gut-wrenching to read for sure. Not only because of the violence but because of how unpredictable and preventable it was. I felt anger and helpless reading it. It wasn't just an act of cruelty, it was a moment that exposed how dehumanized and disposable indigenous boys were (and too often still are).

It could have been prevented if people viewed indigenous youth with the same humanity and concern as white children. I think overall it was the product of structural neglect and racialized violence and I hated it!

10. What you think of Aunty June and her role in the story? Why does she encourage Norma to interact with the Indian protesters only to pull her back when she is recognized as Ruthie?

Aunty June serves as a kind of bridge between the past and the present. She's a truth-holder, a cultural and familial anchor, and one of the only people who remains watchful over the tragedy of Ruthie's disappearance without completely giving in to despair.

I think June wants to give Norma an opportunity to connect and that's why she encourages her to join in. She pulls her back because someone recognizes Ruthie.

11. Joe seems to be a tragic figure as the story of his life is revealed. How he has responded to racism and trauma make you feel when reading this book? Are you enjoying the story or does it make for uncomfortable reading?

Joe is, in so many ways, the emotional core for the book. He carries layers of silent grief: seeing Ruthie last, the lifelong effects of racism, the weight of being overlooked, underestimated, and dismissed as an indigenous man in white-dominated spaces. It's how the loss isolated and hardened him that makes him such a tragic figure.

I'm an emotional reader, so it made me feel a deep ache for him, his family, and it made me angry how he's carried a burden (as so many have) and had nobody to really listen.

Enjoyable or uncomfortable? I've enjoyed the story, yes. It's beautifully written, emotionally honest, and it feels important to me. It gives a voice to people and stories we don't often see in mainstream fiction. But it also made mede me feel uncomfortable. Watching Joe slowly unravel under the weight of trauma, without anyone stepping in and saying, "This isn't your fault," is painful.

But isn't that discomfort the point? It's what makes the story matter. Amanda Peters doesn't want us to pity Jod; she wants us to SEE him., to understand what was taken from him and people like him, and to question what justice and healing might look like.

DQs for day 1

Some of these questions will lead to possible spoilers. Please be sure to hide any spoilers

1. What expectations do you have for the book based on the blurb or other description of the book?

To be honest, I usually don't read the blurb unless I feel I have a reason to do so. I am a cover freak and go by that, title, and author. That being said, I don't have any real expectations other than for it to be about berry pickers lol.

2. How reliable do you the think the 2 narrators are?

I don't think they're unreliable in the usual sense that I think of an unreliable narrator; however, being so young, both kids are likely to get some of the details confused. Actually, most "witnessed" do.

3. Chapter 1 opens with " The day Ruthie went missing the black flies seemed to be especially hungry...Indians made such good berry pickers...something sour in our blood kept the black flies away". How does this establish Joe's view of the relationship that exists between the whites and the Mi'kmaq?

It indicates that Joe sees the racism, lack of understanding of differences in cultures and people in general. So I think it establishes him as being insightful and cognizant of issues between the whites and the Mi'kmaq.

4. How much is Norma dreaming vs remembering? What do you think the dreams foreshadow?

I think they're a blend of both dreaming and remembering, though she probably doesn't realize it. I think they are foreshadowing the truth of her identity. I think she's actually Ruthie.

5. How do you explain Lenore's paranoia about Norma being out alone? How do you account for the incongruity of her insistence that Norma likes to play with baby dolls when she sees Norma choosing other playthings?

I think it is a reflection of her guilt and fear that Norma will somehow be taken away. I think Lenore's insistance that Norma play with baby dolls reflects her need to shape Norma;s identity, rather than accept her for who she truly is.

6. Why did Joe act so clingy when he returned from his first "guide" with his dad?

I think there were a lot of reasons: emotional vulnerability, fear of abandonment, and a desperate need for reassurance which are all rooted in the disappearance of Ruthie.

Angie ☯ wrote: "I'm crazy, Vicki! I read your question completely wrong.

Each book can be used in one of the Minis listed below and one Cheese spell-out.

Mini 1 - Novels/Itineraries
Mini 2 - Traveling
Mini 3 - ..."

Lol No worries! Thanks, I wrote it down this time so hopefully I'll remember to refer to it instead of asking you multiple more times.

Do we still need 3 (or any) midlevel books?

The Sun Was Electric Light

I FINALLY was able to get my book set in Guatemala and posted it, but can't recall if I used it for a country can I also use it for something else like a letter?

If the book is historical fiction set during a time when St. Petersburg was called Leningrad, would that still work?

Angie ☯ wrote: "

Round 2 will be ending in just over 9 days - July 17 @ 9am UTC!

Don't forget to pay attention to your book cap for the round!

If you would, please post a note and let us know how you are doing ..."

I have 13 books I can still read before I hit my cap. I don't know if that includes my reserved (lower page count) books. I will have time to read all 13 books for sure and they'll be the ones with over 300 pages.

Amy the book-bat wrote: "Jenny wrote: "What a pain in the ass! We will not send out the search party for you if we don't hear from you for a bit. I hope you get your tech back soon!"

the first available date for repairman..."

Amy, I am SO sorry to hear about this! We went through something similar about 6 months or so ago; however, we are blessed to have a tech guy in our family. My SIL has a daughter's husband has worked for school districts in their tech department, but he got tired of their shenanigans and now works for the government in their tech department. Anyway, he came over and HE couldn't fix our computer so we ended up getting another one. But we didn't have to wait for more than one day, so I feel for you. The ONE thing that I go crazy without is my computer...mainly because of GR. You can only do so much on your phone. Good luck!!!

Happy (belated) 4th to all those who celebrate(d) it! Our neighborhood sounded like a war zone there were so many illegal fireworks going off like machine guns! Thankfully it only went from about 8:00 until 11:30. Poor hubby had to get up at 4:00 for work so he is TIRED today, I'm sure!

DAY 3 DQ'S CHAPTERS 20-30

10. "Art is coincidence. Love is Chaos."
"Art is a small break from human despair."

Do you agree? Discuss these quotes in relation to the book and real life in general.

I think this is the quintessential Fredrik Backman! I agree with the quote because it speaks to the theme of the book. The smallest connections we make, whether it be through art, love, or something else can be life-saving. Art is coincidence - it doesn't begin as grand but sometimes it's "accidental." It can be simply the product of emotion or a fleeting experience. Love is chaos. In the book and in real life it's rarely "without chaos." It's emotional, reactive, impulsive at times like how it is in My Friends. Art is a breakdown from human despair. Absolutely! The book is full of trauma, grief, and loneliness. Art can give one a break for a moment in time from the pain of life and even give hope. Obviously art can't fix or erase our despair, but it can sure give us a moment to take a deep breath in the beauty and/or connection we feel with a piece of art.

11. We still don't know the artist's real name and now we find out he isn't even in the picture! What do you think is the author's intention in regards to the Artist's role throughout the novel? And how about the significance of the title of the picture, " The One of the Sea instead of the Artist's thoughts it should have been called, The Boys and Her?

Interesting question. I think that the title the given title is more symbolic. It's a paining of the four kids on the pier and not the ocean so much, so it's more about what we feel and not so much what we see, if that makes sense. I'm going to go symbolic here...The Sea is like people: unpredictable, sometimes gentle and sometimes violent, It swallows up things, such as people, pain, and even secrets. I think it's more of a painting of what those kids sadly couldn't hold onto. Not just a painting of four kids.

12. Louisa asks Ted, "Were you two a couple?" In light of how the relationship is written were you surprised by his answer?

No, not surprised at all. I felt like his answer was saying that they could've been couple but life just got in the way abd his type of love wasn't reciprocated.

13. This novel is full of big emotions, real life hardships, death and tragedy but connected and possibly redeemed by the beauty in meaningful and fragile human relationships. The Artist and his friends, Christian and the Artist, Ted and the Artist, Ali and Joar, Ted and Louisa, Fish and Louisa... Which relationship has made the most impression on you? Which one do you think is pivotal to the storyline?

This is an insightful question. My Friends is a tapestry of emotional relationships. I would say Louisa and Ted are the emotional anchor of the present-day narrative, so they impressed me the most. They've learned to trust each other and formed a close, tight-knit bond. Theirs is a transformational relationship, even for the readers (at least me). But I think the most pivotal to the story line is the Artist and the four.

14. Chapter 30 - Louisa leaves the picture then gets off the train when Ted is asleep. Did you see that happening, what do you think will happen next? Ted and Louisa reconnecting or big tragedy? (More tissues needed!)

I was definitely surprised! Her sneaking off the train speaks loudly as to her fear or the attachment they've made. Isn't that what happens to many people who've experienced trauma? Leave them before they leave you. I do think (and hope) they'll reconnect, but I think their relationship will be changed as will each of them.

Day 2 July 3
Chapter 12-19 18-37%

#5. Joar mentions that his mom thinks the best invention in the world are pockets. I have seen a Meme that says a woman, when complimented on her dress will reply “It has pockets.” I love a good pocket. How do you feel about pockets?

I rarely buy any clothing for myself that has pockets but it's not purposeful. If I do buy pants with pockets, I rarely use them. They're neither here nor there.

#6. I must admit I am confused and intrigued about the artist. Who do you think the artist is? What is his or her significance in the story?

Not sure who The Artist is, but I think the he might be the homeless man. The way they are bonding over art and how he seems to know and love art, it could be him. I think The Artist's significance is going to be the bonding over art itself and that the characters will find comfort in one another because they all seem to be grappling with depression over a life trauma of different sorts. They are what I'd call a Found Family.

#7. I am loving the banter between Louisa and Ted. Louisa is so precocious. What do you think of their relationship? Any ideas of what is to come between the two?

I love the kind of banter that occurs between them. It makes for a fun read. Ted seems more sharp and funny; whereas Louisa is more precocious, guarded and quick-witted. She's definitely trying to cover up her pain, and Ted is a bit patronizing. I think the main thing is they're going to become "healers" for each other by becoming friends who can commiserate with the other.

#8. In Chapter #19 we find more about the mentioned Ali. What is your impression of her? Any guesses on what happens next?

Ali is a little firecracker and she appears to me to be the boldest of the characters so far. I enjoy her sarcasm and how she is so transparent. I think she could somehow become the impetus for positive change in others. That seems to be her personality type.

#9. Fredrik Backman has a way of pulling at your heartstrings. In Chapter 19 I both cried and laughed. The children's stories are both heartbreaking and heartwarming. How are you feeling about the book so far? Are you enjoying it?

I am definitely enjoying the book so far and I agree that I've laughed and teared up / choked up. Hearing the stories of each one is so hard to hear (read about). I worry about Ali because she seems to come from the most unstable home, potentially unsafe home. I worry (but hope not) that she might die or something tragic will happen to her but I hope for a HEA.