Bob’s Comments (group member since Jun 22, 2011)

Bob’s comments from the Catching up on Classics (and lots more!) group.

Terris wrote: "Lynn wrote: "I bought Peyton Place last year and put it on one of my challenge lists, but never read it. It might be in my future too! I like Balzac. I read both [book:Letters of Two Brides|1991721..."

I look forward to reading what you two think about Peyton Place. I read it several years ago, I gave it four stars, I should have given it five.

Sara wrote: "Sorry if this is not the right place to put this, but while seeking out my "Second Place" books, I realized The Power of One is on that list. For anyone here who has not read it--Highly ..."

This is the place for general information and discussion. I didn't make a thread for each challenge as last year, that may be a mistake, but I'm hoping it's cleaner.

As for The Power of One, I'd bet a little money, not a lot, that I'm guilty of nominating it a few years ago. It really is a good book.

The 1866 half is full of prime time authors, but I'm ignorant on most of the titles. It should turn out OK.

Congratulations! Looks like a really good selection of books. Now on to next year.

Enjoy your challenge. I finished reading Cousin Bette last week, it's interesting.

The A-Z's always get me, this year I'm leaving them on the serving table. Good luck!

Planning is the fun part, hopefully next year goes better than this one. Enjoy your challenges.

So many of your books are unknown to me. As we move through the year your reviews are always something to look forward to.

Katy wrote: "No, I won't be doing ALL of the challenges, but haven't decided which ones I will do and wanted to save a spot before a conversation gets started.

I always try the A-Z challenges, but haven't qui..."

I'm planning on dieting this year too. Several are just to good to pass up, I guess that is why my past diets fail. Oh well.

Welcome Sara!!

Lynn, I think challenge #3 is going to be a winner. Since you are going to concentrate on it first, I’ll tell you I have read five of your choices and alternates. Without any detail I can say I liked The Sea Wolf and Where Angels Fear to Tread the best. These two are followed by Captains Courageous and The Red Badge of Courage. Lastly is The Kreutaer Sonata, not because it isn’t good, but because the subject is a little rough.

Have fun, enjoy.

Janelle, I hope you enjoy your challenge. Of the books you have selected so far I’ve only read one> I will be looking forward to anything you have to say about your reads as the year goes forward.

I’m glad you like challenge #3. Your homework will save me tons of time, thanks!

Sue, I like your restraint. It’s a buffet and you can always go back for seconds. I will also be on a diet this year. Have fun.

Vesna wrote: "I really love #3 second or lower.

A quick question: One of the books for long reads which didn't make it in the past long read poll looks like it might win (so far) in the current poll for 2021. ..."

b>Challenge #3 - Second Place or Worse

Go back through the groups past polls and select seven (7) total books that are of interest to you but lost the poll and never made it to our group bookshelf.

In my mind I think yes it's disqualified. If it has lost in past polls but wins a poll before the beginning of the challenge it is not eligible.

Terry I didn't check to see if you have read these, but here are a few novellas I think are worth while.
The Country of the Pointed Firs by Sarah Orne Jewett, 88 pages
The Game by Jack London, 102 pages
Goodbye, Mr. Chips by James Hilton, 115 pages
Liza of Lambeth by W. Somerset Maugham, 128 pages
Horseman, Pass By by Larry McMurtry, 192 pages

You have put together a great challenge. I especially like what you have done with #5 & #8.

Congratulations on finishing your century challenge Anne. Not starting till September, I think you did great. Now on to next year.

Julie wrote: "As always you make me push myself - awesome challenges Bob!"

Philina wrote: "Thank you for the great buffet, Bob! The 2nd places and the new to you author are exceptionally good ideas, I think."

Thanks!

Shannon wrote: "And may one use one book for more than one challenge?"

Yes, the same book can be used in different challenges. I don't know how many different books it would take to not have any duplicates, but it is way more than I could read i a single year,