You'll love this one...!! A book club & more discussion
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Think Outside Your Box and Expand Your Mind
❁Lisa Ann❃ wrote: "I am just joining in here so this will be my first toppler. Do we need to have our book choices pre-approved then? ..."Generally you don't need to have them approved unless you're not sure whether or not they will fit the criteria.
I'm glad you're taking the leap of faith and are going to try your first toppler.
Thanks, Janice. :-) I will wait to see what jaxnsmom says about Look Me in the Eye: My Life with Asperger's since I am unsure about that one.
Sarah wrote: "A lot of the topics included fall under the umbrella of discrimination for me. People are discriminated against for many reasons. Religion, Race, cultural traditions/differences, gender, sexuality,..."re: organ/blood donors
This is a discrimination I have never heard of. Do some people view donating blood and/or organs as a bad thing? Or is it that people who don't donate are discriminated against?
@KellyB, thanks for the info about the History Channel programs! I'll check the guide and see if they are coming on again so I can record them.
After some gophering I will probably settle for The Neanderthals Rediscovered: How Modern Science Is Rewriting Their Story, because it challenges the old belief people have had about Neanderthals being stupid and really primitive. A book about mental illness I was planning on reading anyway in February is The Lives They Left Behind: Suitcases from a State Hospital Attic. I would really like to read In the Land of Invisible Women: A Female Doctor's Journey in the Saudi Kingdom as well, but I think I will probably not manage, as it is quite long.
RE organ/blood donation - I guess I was thinking that those who do might look down on those who don't plus many in the medical profession think it selfish of those who don't and wish it were compulsory as there are often shortages and long donor waiting lists. in the UK it's an opt in thing. personally I think it should be compulsory but I don't look down on those who don't. I guess the compulsory view might be the controversy bit. I've given blood once but can't anymore because of my iron levels. I have mixed feelings about the fact I can't.
There is controversy about any attempt to make organ donation compulsory because it would go against the religious beliefs of many people.
Sarah wrote: "RE organ/blood donation - I guess I was thinking that those who do might look down on those who don't plus many in the medical profession think it selfish of those who don't and wish it were compul..."That makes sense. Are there any countries that have made organ donation compulsory? Some religions have very specific guidelines on the treatment and handling of the body after death, so it would be difficult to make donation an across-the-board requirement.
I could see how this would be controversial. I have voluntarily signed donor cards giving permission to use my body parts, but I don't want to be required to do so.
I suppose if I really wanted to think outside my box, I would read a book by Ann Coulter. But I can't go to that extreme, even for this great challenge.I can't read all of these, but possibilities so far:
Behind the Beautiful Forevers: Life, Death, and Hope in a Mumbai Undercity: many issues, including globalism, poverty, inequality, race, class, religion
Waking Up: A Guide to Spirituality Without Religion
My Name is Red: Islam
The Book of Unknown Americans: immigration
Stoned: A Doctor's Case for Medical Marijuana
Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies
The Japanese Lover: race, war, internment
Delicious Foods: human slavery
The Price of Salt: sexual orientation
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking: borderline, as it doesn't fall into a listed category, but it has the potential to expand my mind
Let me know if any of those won't qualify.
I am interested in at least two of the books in Sharon's list, so I am also eager to know if any of them do not qualify.
Caecilia wrote: ":) Looking forward to the challenge. Btw, is "sexual harrassment" also on the topic list? May we add it?"
As my fellow mods said, sexual harassment fits in.
Things to think about on this subject - who determines what constitutes sexual harassment? Does reporting harassment result in appropriate action being taken, or turn you into a pariah? A reprimand, note in personnel file, sensitivity class required, firing - when are these appropriate responses? Does wearing inappropriate clothing give the idea that you're looking for attention, and should expect comments (tight or sheer clothing on men and women, very low cut tops)? What about in situations other than the workplace?
Peggy wrote: "I got my copy of What is the What in the mail today. I didn't realize it's over 500 pages, so a bit too chunky for a toppler. I'll go for one of my other options."That's too bad. I listened to it and it really covers many of the challenge topics. At least you'll have it when you have more time :)
I was really looking forward to reading it. But I usually don't read 500 pages in a week and I would feel very bad if I didn't even finish one book during toppler week. I like to stick to the refugee theme though, and I'm now thinking of Little Bee. It seems to be fitting the toppler (a refugee finding her way in a new country) but I also read some reviews which say it's light and funny. I know many people read it, so any opinions on whether it fits the challenge?
Jmom - Do we have to stick to your topics posted or can we read other topics that we consider controversial? If yes, could a story based around rape culture be included?
❁Lisa Ann❃ wrote: "I am just joining in here so this will be my first toppler. Do we need to have our book choices pre-approved then? I was thinking The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks and if I have..."
Welcome to your first Toppler Lisa Ann! Look Me in the Eye: My Life with Asperger's qualifies. Asperger's is misunderstood by many people, and there are some that don't believe it's a real condition.
Sarah wrote: "RE organ/blood donation - I guess I was thinking that those who do might look down on those who don't plus many in the medical profession think it selfish of those who don't and wish it were compul..."I don't think blood and organ donation can realistically be made compulsory, and I don't think it should be. It would be wonderful if more people did donate, but there are many reasons why they don't. I'm O negative, so when I'm eligible the Red Cross starts calling. I know I should give more, but I've been frustrated so many times by poor management that I ended up leaving after a long wait (and I always make an appointment). I usually do a double red donation, and it takes an hour, so if they're running too far behind I can't wait. Watching the blood go out, and the plasma and platelets come back in my arm is fascinating. I took pictures one time and got some strange looks.
Sharon wrote: "I suppose if I really wanted to think outside my box, I would read a book by Ann Coulter. But I can't go to that extreme, even for this great challenge.I can't read all of these, but possibilitie..."
You've got some interesting books on your list. I'd say the only one that doesn't qualify is Quiet.
Peggy wrote: "I was really looking forward to reading it. But I usually don't read 500 pages in a week and I would feel very bad if I didn't even finish one book during toppler week. I like to stick to the ref..."
It fits. The story that takes place in Nigeria fits for even more topics.
Lynn wrote: "Jmom - Do we have to stick to your topics posted or can we read other topics that we consider controversial? If yes, could a story based around rape culture be included?"
Rape has been included in several of the topics, so that's fine. I'm always so frustrated/unbelieving at how raping women is considered part of the spoils of war.
That's because it is a guy thing, Jmom, women certainly do not consider it so!
jaxnsmom wrote: "Caecilia wrote: ":) Looking forward to the challenge. Btw, is "sexual harrassment" also on the topic list? May we add it?"
As my fellow mods said, sexual harassment fits in.
Things to think ab..."
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oh, thank you very much! ~ perfect.
the book I will be adding here is, krakauer's "missoula" work. the questions you have posted are very good ones :) and i am sure this topic can also bring up some interesting discussion ...
I didn't complete my post on the organ/blood donation as I hit post too soon (I was on my phone). I was going to mention the religious side of things and how those beliefs mean many people do not give or receive donation. Back in the 80s and 90s, I remember watching the TV medical dramas and quite often there was a Jehovah Witness on there who would be injured, yet they weren't allowed the transfusion and I guess I was thinking of the medical staff's reaction to this and their views on the parent for not allowing it. The prospect of letting your kid die when they could easily be kept alive and make a full recovery just seems very alien to me.Scotland have been voting on whether to adopt an opt out organ donor list rather than our opt in list. Not sure which other countries have opt out or compulsory. When writing my last post, I had in mind the opt out system as my preferred system not compulsory but I couldn't remember the term until I just did some googling :-)
Some stats for you: Here in the UK, only 4% of eligible donors, give blood, apparently there has been a 40% drop in blood donors in the past decade with young people not starting up. And apparently it's not just here that this is happening, it seems to be a global trend. Today, there are 6496 people waiting for an organ transplant in the UK. And just 30% of the UK population are on the organ donor list.
To add to the rape discussion, there are some countries still insist that a raped, woman must marry the very man that raped them!
Right I'm off to look at some fluffy bunnies. This talk is too serious for the first thing I do of the day ;-)
I think that I have my list narrowed to this:Science - How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming
Genetic Engineering - My Sister's Keeper
Mental Illness - All the Bright Places
Cloning - Never Let Me Go
Afghanistan - The Kite Runner
Immigrants/Refugees - Little Bee
Climate Change/Global Warming - Meltdown
What do you think jmom?
All the Bright Places is my (and Kristie) group BotM and I've been eagerly wanting to start it ..... but then saw the toppler and had to restrain myself. It's probably going to be my first read.
Almeta wrote: Genetic Engineering - My Sister's Keeper
you have not read it yet?
you'll love it. / it's one of my picoult favourites :)
I'm thinking of reading Inequality: What Everyone Needs to Know. It is a book about the economy and economics, but the solutions are driven by politics and political perspectives. While the existence of inequality is not controversial, whether it is good or bad, when it's a problem, and how to address it all are very controversial, especially here in the US.
KimeyDiann wrote: "re: organ/blood donorsThis is a discrimination I have never heard of. Do some people view donating blood and/or organs as a bad thing? "
JWs or Jehovah's Witnesses view these as a massive issue. They will can let themselves or their children die as it is against their religion to accept blood transfusions and/or organ donations. They believe this alters your soul, is my understanding, although that could be entirely over simplistic.
Sarah wrote: "RE organ/blood donation - I guess I was thinking that those who do might look down on those who don't plus many in the medical profession think it selfish of those who don't and wish it were compul..."Me too. It should be the default, but you can opt out for religious or what not reasons. Aus has a real issue with organ donations, and this would fix a real issue, as most people would they just haven't thought about it. Or are like me and I filled out 5 sets of forms before I finally got to a post box with them, and sent them in over about 6 years.
jaxnsmom wrote: "Rape has been included in several of the topics, so that's fine. I'm always so frustrated/unbelieving at how raping women is considered part of the spoils of war. "Not to mention just a gender issue. Rape culture as a part of gender relations is pretty huge here in Aus. Particularly highlighted by wonderful self styled "Pick Up Artists" who are trying to come into here and preaching that rape should be made legal as it's just a man's right. Thank goodness our Conservative gov had enough sense to ban or cancel their visas. Rare I grats them on anything ;)
Rusalka wrote: "Not to mention just a gender issue. Rape culture as a part of gender relations is pretty huge here in Aus. Particularly highlighted by wonderful self styled "Pick Up Artists" who are trying to come into here and preaching that rape should be made legal as it's just a man's right. Thank goodness our Conservative gov had enough sense to ban or cancel their visas. Rare I grats them on anything ;) "It is so hard to believe that their are still people out there that have those beliefs....crazy.
Lynn wrote: "All the Bright Places is my (and Kristie) group BotM and I've been eagerly wanting to start it ..... but then saw the toppler and had to restrain myself. It's probably going to be m..."I had planned to start it a little earlier, but put it aside for this challenge too. I'm hoping I can read it all in one week. It's a little longer than books that I usually read for topplers.
I like the idea of an opt-out policy instead of an opt-in. When my sister passed away a few years ago, I learned that in the US (or at least in Mississippi), it doesn't matter that you have registered to be an organ donor or that you have the little heart icon on your driver's license that means you want to be an organ donor, it is up to your family. My bro-in-law had to sign paperwork giving permission for donation of her organs. If he had decided at that moment that he didn't want that, her wishes would have been irrelevant. My sister had always been very adamant throughout her life that she did not want machines to keep her alive and that she wanted to be an organ donor when she died. Her husband honored her wishes on both counts and six people were given transplants that most likely saved their lives.
❁Lisa Ann❃ wrote: "I am just joining in here so this will be my first toppler. Do we need to have our book choices pre-approved then? I was thinking The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks and if I have..."
the first is definitely OK and if aspergers is 600 Hours of Edward was one i really enjoyed
Rusalka wrote: "Sarah wrote: "RE organ/blood donation - I guess I was thinking that those who do might look down on those who don't plus many in the medical profession think it selfish of those who don't and wish ..."I agree we should have an opt out policy I worked in ICU and saw the real difficulties
KimeyDiann wrote: "I like the idea of an opt-out policy instead of an opt-in. When my sister passed away a few years ago, I learned that in the US (or at least in Mississippi), it doesn't matter that you have regist..."
It is such an emotive time making big decisions like this are too difficult opt out is the only way forwards
Rusalka wrote: "...Or are like me and I filled out 5 sets of forms before I finally got to a post box with them, and sent them in over about 6 years. ..."I did a similar thing. Procrastinated on actually sending the forms. Then I finally sent the form, but neglected to sign it! Reading the book Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers made me get off the fence.
I am finally registered.
jaxnsmom wrote: "Caecilia wrote: ":) Looking forward to the challenge.
Btw, is "sexual harrassment" also on the topic list? May we add it?"
As my fellow mods said, sexual harassment fits in.
Things to think ab..."
I think harassment is more controversial on high school and college campuses than in the workplace. You are dealing with teens and young adults, drugs and/or alcohol. Then you hear of cover ups, pay offs. Sometimes teachers and professors are the harassers. And it always seems to be the argument that the girl "Asked for it because of the way she was dressed"
Btw, is "sexual harrassment" also on the topic list? May we add it?"
As my fellow mods said, sexual harassment fits in.
Things to think ab..."
I think harassment is more controversial on high school and college campuses than in the workplace. You are dealing with teens and young adults, drugs and/or alcohol. Then you hear of cover ups, pay offs. Sometimes teachers and professors are the harassers. And it always seems to be the argument that the girl "Asked for it because of the way she was dressed"
All the Bright Places was wonderful.Peggy, do read The Story of Beautiful Girl. It was amazing! I gave it 5 stars.
I'm an organ donor in all the countries I have lived: Uruguay, Brazil and US, so better if I die in one of them. In 2013 laws changed in Uruguay so now donations work in a opt out basis (only for adults). I think it's the best way.
I received a blood transfusion when I was 9, and always wanted to "give it back" when turning 18, but I never could. Out of the moments I haven't been pregnant or breastfeeding (that, believe me, adds up years!) I tried to donate 4 times, but couldn't because my blood pressure is too low. I agree with Sarah that it feels kind of bad not being able to do it.
Kimey, I'm sorry to hear about your sister. It was very thoughtful and kind of your brother in law to donate her organs. Such a hard decision in such a hard moment. And as you said, six people had a second chance thanks to them.
Sandra wrote: "Kimey, I'm sorry to hear about your sister. It was very thoughtful and kind of your brother in law to donate her organs. Such a hard decision in such a hard moment. And as you said, six people had a second chance thanks to them. "Thanks, Sandra. Umm. okay. I just had a slightly emotional moment typing that two word sentence due to this subject. My sister's name was Sandra... She went by Sandy. Thinking about her and then typing that sentence brought about a sort of surreal moment and I got a little misty. I'm good now though. :)
Okay, as I was going to say.... It is very important that your family knows your wishes if you live in the US. Even though my sister was registered as an organ donor, her husband had the final say when that time came. If the next of kin doesn't know that you feel strongly about donation one way or another, what you wanted may not matter.
Sorry Sandra & Kimey, as I feel I am interrupting your conversation about organ donation.
So, here is my revised reading list:
Medical Research: The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks (Will definitely read this one)
Mental Illness: (Time permitting, will also one of the following books)
Me Before You, Saving CeeCee Honeycutt or Lincoln's Melancholy: How Depression Challenged a President and Fueled His Greatness
I hope those are all acceptable. :-)
So, here is my revised reading list:
Medical Research: The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks (Will definitely read this one)
Mental Illness: (Time permitting, will also one of the following books)
Me Before You, Saving CeeCee Honeycutt or Lincoln's Melancholy: How Depression Challenged a President and Fueled His Greatness
I hope those are all acceptable. :-)
Emotional moment...My husband and I have talk about this many times, I think he knows which is my will. I hope he is strong enough.
Big virtual hug for you, Kimey.
Lisa Ann, don't worry. We have threads for this chit chat, but we always end chitchatting all over the place. :)
Almeta and Lynn - I listened to All the Bright Places and gave it 4 stars. I highly recommend it.Oh, all your books look good Almeta.
Lisa Ann - I hadn't even considered CeeCee Honeycutt. I have it on my TBR.
I can tell that we're going to end up having some interesting conversations during this toppler.Lisa Ann, don't worry about interrupting, especially when you're interrupting to address the thread's topic. We're a chatty bunch and do tend to go off topic from time to time. Eventually, it gets back to the topic of the thread. Sometimes, it needs a gentle shove to get it back on track. But it's all good.
Rusalka wrote: "Not to mention just a gender issue. Rape culture as a part of gender relations is pretty huge here in Aus. Particularly highlighted by wonderful self styled "Pick Up Artists" who are trying..."I wasn't ignoring it as a gender issue, thought I went off on that earlier :) Making rape legal?? Well, better get rid of the right to vote and own property first, and why not add that slavery and trafficking in women is legal too. Must calm down, I feel the big ball of rage that comes over me when I think about this type of thing.
You'll love this one...!! A book club & more
Books mentioned in this topic
Just Mercy (other topics)Your Heart Is a Muscle the Size of a Fist (other topics)
The Dry Grass of August (other topics)
Just Mercy (other topics)
The Dry Grass of August (other topics)
More...
Authors mentioned in this topic
Jodi Picoult (other topics)Jodi Picoult (other topics)
Harper Barnes (other topics)
David Levithan (other topics)
Khaled Hosseini (other topics)
I was thinking The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks and if I have time to fit in a second Look Me in the Eye: My Life with Asperger's. I am not certain if the latter book's subject is controversial enough though?