A challenge of relative ease and merriment 2017 discussion
Progress
Pocki: Thanks for the recommendation :) I'll add it to my reading list.
Mod
Death's Acre: Inside the Legendary Forensic Lab the Body Farm Where the Dead Do Tell Tales by Bill Bass and Jon Jefferon for non-fiction. If you're interested in forensics or murders, read it. I thought it was great. I read a lot of non-fiction but I think this one gets to be the challenge one for this year.
Starfall by Melissa Landers for the Young Adult category. A little bit better than the previous book in the series, but nothing spectacular. I'll be reading more YA for sure. It always happens. So might switch this out for the final results.
Star Wars Propaganda: A History of Persuasive Art in the Galaxy by Pablo Hidalgo for the media tie-in. I didn't want to count this really cause it's so heavy on the pictures. But it did take me a while to read for some reason and I haven't read another one, yet. So I thought I'd count this meanwhile. I will however switch it out if something better comes along, which I definitely think it will (I want to read some Star Wars novels)
And finally, Salt: A World History by Mark Kurlansky for the food category. I started a book about cannibalism that I kinda want to count instead, but I didn't get very far before gettign distracted by other things, and this book about salt has been my audiobook for the past week or so. And I tend to finish the audiobooks I start in earnest since I always listen when going to and from work and then there's nothing to distract me. This is one of those classic "social histories of one thing", or (sort of mislabeled, see discussions in last years challenge group) microhistories, which I love. So I thought I should finally read it. And if you like this sort of thing, it's good! If you don't, it will probably be boring. Cause it's pretty long!
So that's halfway for me! 10/20!
The two books I'm about to start (one audio and one regular) won't count for the challenge for me, cause those categories are already filled.
Progress so far: 7/20 complete.a book released in 2017
Convict Heart by Lena Dowling 04/04/17 ****
Released March 15th/17. A really good historical romance with an interesting plot and engaging characters. Recommended. Could be used for the "not first in series" category as well and can be read as a standalone.
a kids book
The Lucky Leprechaun: Astro's Adventures by Susan Day 04/14/17
Entertaining. Talking dogs and cats are the protagonists. Could also be used for the "not first in series" category and can be read as a standalone. Good for ages 7-12.
a book of fantastical fiction (fantasy/scifi/paranormal)
Michael's Passion by Joel Crofoot 04/14/17 *****
Paranormal Romance (graphic). An excellent read, great characters. Angels and demons in a whole new light.
a cozy mystery
Murder in White Lace by Karen Sue Walker 04/01/17 ***
First in the series. A pretty good start with interesting characters. The mystery aspect was somewhat predictable though.
a debut novel
Schooled for Murder by Cindy Muir 03/28/17 **
Didn't particularly enjoy and wouldn't recommend this one. Rather poorly written.
an LGBTQIA* book
True Colors by Anyta Sunday 04/09/17 ***
An good read overall. Somewhat inconsistent and could have used better editing. I did like both main characters, some of the dialogue between them was excellent and the ending was heartfelt and genuine.
a book that is part of a series but not the first book (could be a later released prequel though)
Stop Press Murder by Peter Bartram 03/25/17 ****
I really enjoyed this one and would recommend it, it's the second in the series. It would also work for the cozy mystery category.
20/20 - Challenge completed.a book released in 2017: Norse Mythology
a book written before 1900: A Christmas Carol
a non-fiction book: How It Ends: From You to the Universe
a kids book: Oh, wie schön ist Panama
a YA novel: Spelkortsmysteriet
a book of fantastical fiction (fantasy/scifi/paranormal): Våran hud, vårat blod, våra ben
a cozy mystery: Kan man dö två gånger?
a debut novel: Saker min son behöver veta om världen
a book of poetry or drama (that is to say a play, not just ~dramatic~): Den poetiska Eddan
a biography/autobiography/memoir: De oroliga
a book written by someone under the age of 30: Främlingen
a media tie-in (clarification in a thread): The Simpsons and Their Mathematical Secrets
an LGBTQIA* book: Brokeback Mountain
a book about food: The Vegetarian
a scary/creepy book: Det svenska hatet: en berättelse om vår tid
a book that is part of a series but not the first book (could be a later released prequel though): The Story of the Lost Child
a Goodreads Choice Awards winner (any year, any category): Ljuset vi inte ser
a book with an animal on the cover: Nortons filosofiska memoarer
a book mostly set in the desert: Alkemisten
a book that was adapted into a movie: Breakfast at Tiffany's
BONUS: watch a movie that was based on a book! (maybe make it the same as #20) : Hugo Cabret based on The Invention of Hugo Cabret
a book released in 2017-Everything You Want Me to Be-01/29/17a book written before 1900
a non-fiction book Illusion of Justice: Inside Making a Murderer and America's Broken System-03/16/17
a kids book
a YA novel
a book of fantastical fiction (fantasy/scifi/paranormal)-End of Watch-03/31/17
a cozy mystery The Last Word-02/07/17
a debut novel
a book of poetry or drama (that is to say a play, not just ~dramatic~)
a biography/autobiography/memoir Talking as Fast as I Can: From Gilmore Girls to Gilmore Girls, and Everything in Between-01/31/17
a book written by someone under the age of 30
a media tie-in (clarification in a thread)
an LGBTQIA* book
a book about food
a scary/creepy book
a book that is part of a series but not the first book (could be a later released prequel though) The Body in the Kelp-01/05/17
a Goodreads Choice Awards winner (any year, any category)
a book with an animal on the cover 101 Amazing Things About Dog Lovers-02/20/17
a book mostly set in the desert
a book that was adapted into a movie
a book released in 2017✔️a book written before 1900 - Ruth
✔️ a non-fiction book - The Year of Living Danishly: My Twelve Months Unearthing the Secrets of the World's Happiest Country
✔️ a kids book - A Little Princess
a YA novel
a book of fantastical fiction (fantasy/scifi/paranormal)
a cozy mystery
✔️ a debut novel - Ninefox Gambit
✔️ a book of poetry or drama (that is to say a play, not just ~dramatic~) - The Crucible
a biography/autobiography/memoir -
a book written by someone under the age of 30
a media tie-in (clarification in a thread)
✔️ an LGBTQIA* book - The Eagle's Heir
a book about food
a scary/creepy book
✔️ a book that is part of a series but not the first book (could be a later released prequel though) - Behold a Pale Horse
a Goodreads Choice Awards winner (any year, any category)
a book with an animal on the cover
a book mostly set in the desert
a book that was adapted into a movie
Progress so far: 5/20 complete.a book released in 2017
Convict Heart by Lena Dowling 04/04/17 ****
Released March 15th/17. A really good historical romance with an interesting plot and engaging characters. Recommended. Could be used for the "not first in series" category as well and can be read as a standalone.
a cozy mystery
Murder in White Lace by Karen Sue Walker 04/01/17 ***
First in the series. A pretty good start with interesting characters. The mystery aspect was somewhat predictable though.
a debut novel
Schooled for Murder by Cindy Muir 03/28/17 **
Didn't particularly enjoy and wouldn't recommend this one. Rather poorly written.
an LGBTQIA* book
True Colors by Anyta Sunday 04/09/17 ***
An good read overall. Somewhat inconsistent and could have used better editing. I did like both main characters, some of the dialogue between them was excellent and the ending was heartfelt and genuine.
a book that is part of a series but not the first book (could be a later released prequel though)
Stop Press Murder by Peter Bartram 03/25/17 ****
I really enjoyed this one and would recommend it, it's the second in the series. It would also work for the cozy mystery category.
Edited post #5614/20 completed
Non-fiction book: How It Ends: From You to the Universe
Interesting book on death in its various form. A bit to chatty to my taste, though.
It's been a while since my last update, here are the books I have read since then for the challenge:
A book released in 2017: Difficult Women by Roxane Gay was not what I expected. It was a tough read in the sense that the women in the stories led very hard and challenging lives.
A scary/creepy book: Det svenska hatet by Gellert Tamas is a must read for anyone who knows Swedish, particularly at a time like this when racism is flourishing in Sweden.
Read 12/20
Edited post #56So far 15/20 completed
Media tie-in: The Simpsons and Their Mathematical Secrets
Wonderful book, but you probably have to know some mathematics to fully appreciate it.
Rebecka wrote: "It's been a while since my last update, here are the books I have read since then for the challenge:
[bookcover:Det..."Fully agree, Rebecka. Det svenska hatet is the scariest book I've read in like ... ever.
20/20 completed!a book released in 2017-
a book written before 1900 -
a non-fiction book -
a kids book -
a YA novel -
a book of fantastical fiction (fantasy/scifi/paranormal): -
a cozy mystery : -
a debut novel: -
a book of poetry or drama (that is to say a play, not just ~dramatic~): -
a biography/autobiography/memoir -
a book written by someone under the age of 30 -
a media tie-in (clarification in a thread) -
an LGBTQIA* book -
a book about food -
a scary/creepy book -
a book that is part of a series but not the first book (could be a later released prequel though) -
a Goodreads Choice Awards winner (any year, any category) -
a book with an animal on the cover -
a book mostly set in the desert -
a book that was adapted into a movie -
(I also watched the movie, but the book was sooooo much better).
My five favourite reads from the challenge has been:
De kommer att drunkna i sina mödrars tårar
Teaching My Mother How to Give Birth
The Bricks that Built the Houses
Cities of Salt
Orientalism
Edited post #56So far 17/20
YA-novel: Spelkortsmysteriet
Debut novel: Saker min son behöver veta om världen
Mod
Within the Sanctuary of Wings by Marie Brennan is my book that's not first in a series, as it is in fact the fifth and last book in The Memoirs of Lady Trent. I have been waiting for this book for a year, and when I looked at the categories for the challenge I knew I wanted to use this book for this category. Oh man this series is so good! If you like dragons, or natural history, or victorian style fantasy, this is a series for you! My favourite is the third book, but they're all good. And they make really good audiobooks too!
Dead Wake: The Last Crossing of the Lusitania by Erik Larson was the 2015 Goodreads Choice Awards winner in History & Biography. Pretty good, and a story I wasn't super familiar with actually. Erik Larson does write very compelling stories of historical events (you might've heard of The Devil In The White City?) and this is no exception.
The Extreme Life of the Sea by Stephen and Anthony Palumbi, I have later realised has animals on the cover! I will possibly switch this out for something else for the final list at the end of the year but for now it's good. It's a pretty decent book, and was a very interesting lecture when I went to it a few years ago. Non-fiction about sea creatures (and a bit about conservation or what's happening to the ocean).
Rebecka - I know this may be me being pedantic, but I honestly don't think that And Then There Were None is a cozy mystery. I mean, Christie certainly wrote cozies - the Miss Marple books are some of the earliest cozies written! - but that particular book doesn't seem to hit the perimeters of what a cozy is.Cozy mysteries are a sub-genre that feature amateur sleuths, minimal violence & sex, and usually take place in a small and relatively tightly knit community setting - like a village or small town. Typically they feature a significant cast of supporting characters, and often those supporting characters provide comedic relief.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cozy_my...
And Then There Were None, while an excellent mystery and a cracking good read, is far more grim than cozy!
(And now I've written the word "cozy" so many times in this very short comment that it has stopped making sense!)
Bunny, I never read cozy mysteries so I honestly don't know the criteria. I googled lists of cozy mystery books, and kept finding And Then There Were None on most of the lists I went through. But if you don't think it counts as a cozy mystery then I will remove it from my list. In that case I'd love suggestions of cozy mystery books that will be accepted for this challenge, as I don't want to keep reading books that I think fit the category and then don't. Mystery or cozy mystery aren't really genres that interest me.
I was in And Then There Were None in high school!
Rebecka, I can certainly do that! I just scanned through your goodreads reviews/rankings and I get the sense that you tend to prefer more serious and literary books. As such, I'm mostly going to steer clear of the many, many twee and cute cozy mystery series out there. Some of these recommendations fall smack dab in the middle of the "cozy" category, and some of them are a bit more on the edge - but they all hit several of the defining criteria.1, You've already dipped your toe into Dame Agatha's works, and if you enjoyed her writing style you might very well want to try her best known cozy series and go for something from The Complete Miss Marple Collection, which are all very good. (That said, my favorite of hers is The Secret of Chimneys, which isn't properly any part of a series.)
2. Murder With Peacocks is somehow both the epitome of a cozy mystery and also less a mystery and more of a screwball comedy with some beats that could be lifted straight from a 1930s film with Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant. It may not be to your tastes, but it's very near and dear to my heart and I couldn't not include it here.
3. A Nun in the Closet is very possibly my Grandmother's favorite book of all time and is one that left me crying with laughter the first time I read it. First published in 1975 it very much reflects the era in which it was written in the best way possible and the characters are just fantastic.
4. And now we stray just slightly to the outskirts of the cozy category with The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency. Precious Ramotswe may be a professional lady detective working in Botswana, but she's very clearly the literary and spiritual descendant of the Miss Marples of the mystery universe. This series is fantastic and has won a significant amount of critical and literary acclaim since this book was released in 1998.
5, Finally, I give you Crocodile on the Sandbank. Another older book (I know, I have a weakness) from the 70s (but set in the 1890s), this series centers itself around Amelia Peabody, a strong-willed, sarcastic, self-proclaimed spinster, with a passion for Egyptology. Amelia is a fantastic character (more interesting than likable, which is how I like them!) and the author had a Ph.D. in Egyptology from the University of Chicago - and believe me, you can tell that she loves the subject as much as her characters do.
I do hope this helps! If nothing here sounds interesting I can try again. :)
Well, April was almost as bad as March for me and I spent most of it dealing with dental issues and sleeping. >.< That said, I did manage to tick off a few more categories - including Media Tie-in, which I had been struggling with!a media tie-in - The X-Files: Year Zero isn't something I would normally ever read, but it was certainly quick to get through (5 floppies = slim trade) and I do love me some Dana Scully.
a book that is part of a series but not the first book - A Symphony of Echoes is the second book in the Chronicles of St. Mary's, a series that takes place at a historical institute dedicated to time travel. It's sort of reminiscent of Connie Willis's Oxford Time Travel series, but lacking in her distinctive tone and humor. I'm enjoying them well enough to continue on to the next book, but I'm also hoping that the author scales back the relationship misunderstandings and dramatics. I'm much more interested in time travel hijinks than arguments between lovers!
11/20 done and dusted
Okay, I am finally coming to give my update! I have discovered audiobooks and my "reading" has exploded since then. Also, I am doing a personal challenge of reading at least one biography, memoir, or autobiography a month, so I am a bit heavy on those types of books.A book released in 2017 - Still working on that one!
A book written before 1900 - Dracula
I can't believe I never read it! I know I've seen the movie - the one with Gary Oldman and Winona Ryder. I LOVED IT. I do not usually like books like Wuthering Heights, Jane Austen books, etc., so I was a bit worried but I adored Dracula.
a non-fiction book - The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics
An excellent book! I loved the mix of biographical details, historical background, and information about rowing. I learned a ton and enjoyed every minute.
a kids book - Marvelous Cornelius: Hurricane Katrina and the Spirit of New Orleans
I have two kids, so I read several kids books EACH DAY. This was just the first I read. My daughter and I loved it!
a YA novel - A Wrinkle in Time
I am reading this to my daughter at night before bed. It's only like the 20th time I've read it :)
a book of fantastical fiction - 11/22/63
Highly recommend this book! Fascinating!
a cozy mystery - The Darling Dahlias and the Cucumber Tree
Not my usual kind of book but it was an okay change of pace.
a debut novel - Ready Player One
I enjoyed it, especially because my husband read it with me and we could talk about it. Not terribly memorable, though.
a book of poetry or drama - Really just need to find a book of poetry and make myself read it! Any suggestions?
a biography/autobiography/memoir - Born a Crime: Stories From a South African Childhood
Again, I loved it. My husband also read this one with me!
a book written by someone under the age of 30 - Open to suggestions!
a media tie-in (clarification in a thread) - I plan to read the book about the Princess Bride. I think that is okay?
an LGBTQIA* book - I am going to start this one next: Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic
a book about food - My Life in France
It started out GREAT but I was ready for it to be over by the end. It got a bit slow. Still, I am glad I read it!
a scary/creepy book - Divided Kingdom
More creepy than scary. I only gave it two or three stars. The premise is great but it tried WAY TOO HARD to be mysterious and weird.
a book that is part of a series but not the first book - A Fatal Grace
I read Still Life and A Fatal Grace just to meet this requirement :) Meh, they are okay. Mysteries are just not my thing, I guess. I don't feel the need to read more.
a Goodreads Choice Awards winner - The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE this book! Highly recommend it!
a book with an animal on the cover - Hmmmm... Still need to find one!
a book mostly set in the desert - The Dry
See, this was a mystery I did enjoy. The setting and the characters were very enjoyable. I checked it out while we were on vacation from the library there, so I power-read it in like two days... which is impressive when you have two kids!
a book that was adapted into a movie - Hidden Figures: The Untold True Story of Four African-American Women Who Helped Launch Our Nation into Space
I enjoyed it... but not as much as I thought I would. I will want to see the movie eventually.
Been awhile since my last update. So far I'm 9/20. Here's what I've read so far and what I plan to read:a book released in 2017 (plan to read: Lillian Boxfish Takes a Walk)
a book written before 1900 (In Progress: The Treasure of the City of Ladies, or The Book of Three Virtues)
✔️a non-fiction book The Art of Forgery: The Minds, Motives and Methods of Master Forgers
✔️a kids book The Lonely Book
✔️a YA novel Gathering Blue
✔️a book of fantastical fiction (fantasy/scifi/paranormal) 11/22/63
✔️a cozy mystery Have His Carcase
a debut novel (plan to read: The Stones of Summer)
a book of poetry or drama (plan to read: The Dream of a Common Language)
✔️a biography/autobiography/memoir As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride
a book written by someone under the age of 30 (plan to read: Hyperbole and a Half: Unfortunate Situations, Flawed Coping Mechanisms, Mayhem, and Other Things That Happened
✔️a media tie-in The Angel's Kiss: A Melody Malone Mystery (Doctor Who tie-in)
an LGBTQIA* book (plan to read: How to Survive a Plague: The Inside Story of How Citizens and Science Tamed AIDS
a book about food (In Progress: The Food Section: Newspaper Women and the Culinary Community)
a scary/creepy book (plan to read: Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers)
✔️a book that is part of a series but not the first book (could be a later released prequel though) Trunk Music (Harry Bosch #5)
a Goodreads Choice Awards winner (any year, any category) (plan to read: The Underground Railroad)
a book with an animal on the cover (plan to read: Unusual Uses for Olive Oil)
✔️a book mostly set in the desert A Canticle for Leibowitz
a book that was adapted into a movie (plan to read: Marathon Man)
BONUS: watch a movie that was based on a book! (maybe make it the same as #20) I saw Hidden Figures, based on:
Bunny, thanks for the suggestions. My library has three of the books you suggested, so I will read whichever I can get my hand on first :)And I might was well update my progess:
A kids book: UppfinnarJohanna & skrämselmaskinen by Ann-Christine Magnusson
This is a lovely book for children. It is about a girl named Johanna who is an inventor, and in this particular book she invents a scary machine. I love the publisher Olika, because they go beyond gender stereotypes and they don't reinforce the predominance of "white" main characters and/or heroes. I wish this publisher had been around when I was a child!
A media tie-in: Doctor Who: Tales of Trenzalore: The Eleventh Doctor's Last Stand
This is the first media tie-in I have ever read. As a huge Doctor Who fan I had to go with something related to Doctor Who. I found this book a bit uneven, but I think it is only natural since there are four stories written by four different authors. Overall, I enjoyed my read.
Read 14/20
It's also been a while since I've checked in so decided to do an update. a book released in 2017: read A Line Made by Walking
a book written before 1900: read The Awakening
a non-fiction book: read The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World
a kids book: not sure yet
a YA novel: plan to read Asking For It
a book of fantastical fiction (fantasy/scifi/paranormal): read The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay
a cozy mystery: read The Murder of Roger Ackroyd
a debut novel: not sure yet
a book of poetry or drama (that is to say a play, not just ~dramatic~): not sure yet
a biography/autobiography/memoir: read When Breath Becomes Air
a book written by someone under the age of 30: read The Visitor
a media tie-in (clarification in a thread): read The Bricks that Built the Houses
an LGBTQIA* book: not sure yet (thinking aboutUnder the Udala Trees, but any other suggestions or recommendations appreciated)
a book about food: read The Vegetarian
a scary/creepy book: read Eileen
a book that is part of a series but not the first book (could be a later released prequel though): plan to read: Mother's Milk
a Goodreads Choice Awards winner (any year, any category): plan to read: My Name Is Lucy Barton
a book with an animal on the cover: read The Guest Cat
a book mostly set in the desert: plan to read Le Petit Prince
a book that was adapted into a movie: read Hotel du Lac
So, so far that is 13 out of the 20. I am currently reading a book that was given to me by a friend, but it is outside the remaining categories, so once I finish that, I will get back on track.
Progress so far: 7/20 complete.a book released in 2017
Convict Heart by Lena Dowling 04/04/17 ****
Released March 15th/17. A really good historical romance with an interesting plot and engaging characters. Recommended. Could be used for the "not first in series" category as well and can be read as a standalone.
a kids book
The Lucky Leprechaun: Astro's Adventures by Susan Day 04/14/17
Entertaining. Talking dogs and cats are the protagonists. Could also be used for the "not first in series" category and can be read as a standalone. Good for ages 7-12.
a book of fantastical fiction (fantasy/scifi/paranormal)
Michael's Passion by Joel Crofoot 04/14/17 *****
Paranormal Romance (graphic). An excellent read, great characters. Angels and demons in a whole new light.
a cozy mystery
Murder in White Lace by Karen Sue Walker 04/01/17 ***
First in the series. A pretty good start with interesting characters. The mystery aspect was somewhat predictable though.
a debut novel
Schooled for Murder by Cindy Muir 03/28/17 **
Didn't particularly enjoy and wouldn't recommend this one. Rather poorly written.
an LGBTQIA* book
True Colors by Anyta Sunday 04/09/17 ***
An good read overall. Somewhat inconsistent and could have used better editing. I did like both main characters, some of the dialogue between them was excellent and the ending was heartfelt and genuine.
a book that is part of a series but not the first book (could be a later released prequel though)
Stop Press Murder by Peter Bartram 03/25/17 ****
I really enjoyed this one and would recommend it, it's the second in the series. It would also work for the cozy mystery category.
Here is my progress -- not very much so far, only four!A book written before 1900 - Madame de Villeneuve's The Story of the Beauty and the Beast: The Original Classic French Fairytale (from 1740)
A non-fiction book - Grejen med substantiv och pronomen by Sara Lövestam
A book of fantastical fiction (fantasy/scifi/paranormal) - Dawn by Octavia Butler
A debut novel - En man som heter Ove by Fredrik Backman (I might move this one to "book that was adapted into a movie" later, though)
I have some books lined up for other categories, but not so far for the cozy mystery, LGBTQIA*, food, and kids book categories. I'll be sure to check the recommendations you lot have posted here!
Well I just joined so thought I would throw my list out there and see what sticks LOL. I already feel slow and behind with so many of you almost finished with the challenge.a book released in 2017
a book written before 1900 Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave
a non-fiction book Remembering Paradise Park: Tourism and Segregation at Silver Springs
a kids book - Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!
a YA novel The Inquisition
a book of fantastical fiction (fantasy/scifi/paranormal)
a cozy mystery - Presumed Puzzled
a debut novel
a book of poetry or drama (that is to say a play, not just ~dramatic~)
a biography/autobiography/memoir Little Princes: One Man's Promise to Bring Home the Lost Children of Nepal
a book written by someone under the age of 30 - The Novice
a media tie-in (clarification in a thread)
an LGBTQIA* book
a book about food Back Pocket Pasta: Inspired Dinners to Cook on the Fly
a scary/creepy book The Scarlet Gospels
a book that is part of a series but not the first book (could be a later released prequel though) - The Treatment
a Goodreads Choice Awards winner (any year, any category)
a book with an animal on the cover Song of the Lion
a book mostly set in the desert - Rock with Wings
a book that was adapted into a movie
So Far Read 12/20 - updates to follow :) ( as of 9/29)
Another Update! I included reviews of my most recent additions.A book released in 2017 - Pedal Power: How One Community Became the Bicycle Capital of the World A cute book and I feel like my daughter and I both learned something from it! 4 stars
A book written before 1900 - Dracula 4 stars
a non-fiction book - The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics 4.5 stars
a kids book - Marvelous Cornelius: Hurricane Katrina and the Spirit of New Orleans 4.5 stars
a YA novel - A Wrinkle in Time 5 stars
a book of fantastical fiction - 11/22/63 4.5 stars
a cozy mystery - The Darling Dahlias and the Cucumber Tree 3.5 stars
a debut novel - Ready Player One 3.5 stars
a book of poetry or drama - Really just need to find a book of poetry and make myself read it! Any suggestions?
a biography/autobiography/memoir - Born a Crime: Stories From a South African Childhood 4 stars
a book written by someone under the age of 30 - The Mothers An amazing debut novel. I can't wait to her future books! 4 stars
a media tie-in (clarification in a thread) - I plan to read the book about the Princess Bride. I think that is okay?
an LGBTQIA* book - Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic 4 stars
a book about food - My Life in France 3.5 stars
a scary/creepy book - Divided Kingdom 2.5 stars
a book that is part of a series but not the first book - A Fatal Grace 3.5 stars
a Goodreads Choice Awards winner - The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks 5 stars!!
a book with an animal on the cover - Still need to find one!
a book mostly set in the desert - The Dry 4 stars
a book that was adapted into a movie - Hidden Figures: The Untold True Story of Four African-American Women Who Helped Launch Our Nation into Space 3.5 stars
My progress: 17/20! :)
Berit wrote: "YAY! Challenge completed. 20/20Updated post #56.
A biography/autobiography/memoir: De oroliga"
Congrats!!!!
Nancy wrote: "Berit wrote: "YAY! Challenge completed. 20/20Updated post #56.
A biography/autobiography/memoir: De oroliga"
Congrats!!!!"
Thanks, Nancy!
I have completed the challenge!! I have been very fortunate to have plenty of reading time this year, and the challenge also focused me more, making me more determined to read different types of books and pushing me to complete them. I was very lucky in my selections as I think I enjoyed all of the books I read, though some, clearly, more than others. I wrote a review on all of the books I read, which can be found in my profile page.So the 7 categories that were left since my last update were as follows:
Kid's book: Little Women
YA book: Lies my Girlfriend told me.
Book of poetry or drama: Translations
LGBTQIA book: Invisible Furies of the Heart
Book that is part of a series, but not the first: Mother's Milk
Goodreads Choice Award Winner: My name is Lucy Barton
Book mostly set in the desert: Le Petit Prince.
Berit and Martha.O.S, well done for completing the challenge! :)Which of the books that you read for this challenge is your favourite?
For me I would say "A Line made by Walking" by Sara Baume. Such a beautifully written book, and one that stayed with me a long time. So many echoes of truth that hit hard, but also grounded were grounded in reflections of beauty and hope.
Sorry, there's actually one category that I inadvertently left out earlier. That is:Debut novel: The Strays by Emily Bitto,
Also incidentally up there among my favourites. Looking forward to hearing about all other updates on progress and seeing the range of books chosen for each of the categories. 😊
I read Sara Baume's Spill Simmer Falter Wither which I enjoyed very much so I can imagine that A Line made by Walking is wonderful. It is on my to read list :)
Defo you should read it. She is a wonderful writer and I really enjoyed "Spill Summer Falter Wither" also but identified even more with Frankie, the narrator in "A Line Made by Walking", though there was something very appealing and sort of melancholic about the human-dog relationship in her first book that touches something really deep. I think if you enjoyed Sara Baume's first book, you will definitely enjoy this one also. Hopefully there are lots more great things to come from this writer.
Another Update! I included reviews of my most recent additions. Only one more to go!A book released in 2017 - Pedal Power: How One Community Became the Bicycle Capital of the World 4 stars
A book written before 1900 - Dracula4 stars
a non-fiction book -The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics 4.5 stars
a kids book - Marvelous Cornelius: Hurricane Katrina and the Spirit of New Orleans 4.5 stars
a YA novel - A Wrinkle in Time 5 stars (Also reading
Wonder right now and enjoying it!
a book of fantastical fiction - 11/22/63 4.5 stars
a cozy mystery - The Darling Dahlias and the Cucumber Tree 3.5 stars
a debut novel - Ready Player One 3.5 stars
a book of poetry or drama - One Last Word: Wisdom from the Harlem Renaissance 5 BIG STARS!
To be honest, I started a few books of poetry for this challenge but could not seem to finish them. This one I could not put down! Grimes includes classic poems from the Harlem Renaissance, some of which were new to me and others that I was very happy to revisit. Then she cleverly reimagined them for current times. They were all beautiful. I shared a few with my 6-year-old daughter just because I had to read them out loud to someone.
I never buy books - I love my public library too much - but this is one I am seriously considering buying. The cover is gorgeous and I may very well want to revisit some of these poems again.
I highly recommend this book, even if you don not usually like poetry!
a biography/autobiography/memoir - Born a Crime: Stories From a South African Childhood 4 stars
a book written by someone under the age of 30 - The Mothers 4 stars
a media tie-in (clarification in a thread) - As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride Reading this one next! And then I am DONE! :)
an LGBTQIA* book - Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic 4 stars
a book about food - My Life in France 3.5 stars
a scary/creepy book - Divided Kingdom 2.5 stars
a book that is part of a series but not the first book - A Fatal Grace 3.5 stars
a Goodreads Choice Awards winner - The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks 5 stars!!
a book with an animal on the cover - A Big Guy Took My Ball! Yes, I am cheating on this one by including a children's book. I have two kids. I read lots of kids books :) 4 stars because Piggy and Elephant are the best!
a book mostly set in the desert - The Dry 4 stars
a book that was adapted into a movie - Hidden Figures: The Untold True Story of Four African-American Women Who Helped Launch Our Nation into Space 3.5 stars
Overall progress: 19/20 yay!!! And I have #20 checked out and ready to go!
Well done Carly!! Nearly there on your 20. And a great choice of books! Your recommendation of the Grimes poetry book is great. I feel like I really want to check it out!
I've finished the challenge, here is the complete list of what I have read:a book released in 2017: Difficult Women by Roxane Gay
a book written before 1900: The Awakening by Kate Chopin
a non-fiction book: The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel A. van der Kolk
a kids book:UppfinnarJohanna & skrämselmaskinen by Ann-Christine Magnusson
a YA novel:Ash by Malinda Lo
a book of fantastical fiction (fantasy/scifi/paranormal):Blackout by Connie Willis
a cozy mystery:The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith
a debut novel:Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi
a book of poetry or drama:Falling Awake by Alice Oswald
a biography/autobiography/memoir:Rosalie Lightning: A Graphic Memoir by Tom Hart
a book written by someone under the age of 30: Lyssna till ditt hjärta by Johannes Hinrich von Borstel
a media tie-in: Doctor Who: Tales of Trenzalore: The Eleventh Doctor's Last Stand
an LGBTQIA* book:Under the Udala Trees by Chinelo Okparanta
a book about food:Mat för hormonell balans by
Mia Lundin
a scary/creepy book:Det svenska hatet: en berättelse om vår tid by Gellert Tamas
a book that is part of a series but not the first book (could be a later released prequel though):Ha'penny by Jo Walton
a Goodreads Choice Awards winner: The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman
a book with an animal on the cover:Lily and the Octopus by Steven Rowley
a book mostly set in the desert:Cities of Salt by Abdul Rahman Munif
a book that was adapted into a movie:Hidden Figures: The Untold True Story of Four African-American Women Who Helped Launch Our Nation into Space by Margot Lee Shetterly
Rebecka wrote: "Berit and Martha.O.S, well done for completing the challenge! :)Which of the books that you read for this challenge is your favourite?"
Martha.O.S wrote: "I have completed the challenge!! I have been very fortunate to have plenty of reading time this year, and the challenge also focused me more, making me more determined to read different types of bo..."
Thanks, Rebecka. Congrats to you, too. I have two favourites: Ljuset vi inte ser and De oroliga.
And done!Another Update! I included reviews of my most recent additions. Only one more to go!
A book released in 2017 - Pedal Power: How One Community Became the Bicycle Capital of the World 4 stars
A book written before 1900 - Dracula4 stars
a non-fiction book -The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics 4.5 stars
a kids book - Marvelous Cornelius: Hurricane Katrina and the Spirit of New Orleans 4.5 stars
a YA novel - A Wrinkle in Time 5 stars (Also reading
Wonder right now and enjoying it!
a book of fantastical fiction - 11/22/63 4.5 stars
a cozy mystery - The Darling Dahlias and the Cucumber Tree 3.5 stars
a debut novel - Ready Player One 3.5 stars
a book of poetry or drama - One Last Word: Wisdom from the Harlem Renaissance 5 BIG STARS!
To be honest, I started a few books of poetry for this challenge but could not seem to finish them. This one I could not put down! Grimes includes classic poems from the Harlem Renaissance, some of which were new to me and others that I was very happy to revisit. Then she cleverly reimagined them for current times. They were all beautiful. I shared a few with my 6-year-old daughter just because I had to read them out loud to someone.
I never buy books - I love my public library too much - but this is one I am seriously considering buying. The cover is gorgeous and I may very well want to revisit some of these poems again.
I highly recommend this book, even if you don not usually like poetry!
a biography/autobiography/memoir - Born a Crime: Stories From a South African Childhood 4 stars
a book written by someone under the age of 30 - The Mothers 4 stars
a media tie-in (clarification in a thread) - As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride 3.5 stars
an LGBTQIA* book - Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic 4 stars
a book about food - My Life in France 3.5 stars
a scary/creepy book - Divided Kingdom 2.5 stars
a book that is part of a series but not the first book - A Fatal Grace 3.5 stars
a Goodreads Choice Awards winner - The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks 5 stars!!
a book with an animal on the cover - H is for Hawk 3.5 stars
a book mostly set in the desert - The Dry 4 stars
a book that was adapted into a movie - Hidden Figures: The Untold True Story of Four African-American Women Who Helped Launch Our Nation into Space 3.5 stars
Thank you for SUCH a fun reading challenge. It was the first reading challenge I have done and I really enjoyed it!
Any suggestions on other fun, no-pressure reading challenges like this?
Well, since April I've dusted off 3 more categories, bringing me to 14/20 done. I have been reading but most of the things I've been consuming don't fit the challenges! *shakes fist* I'll get there though! :D✔️01. a book released in 2017 - Etched in Bone
02. a book written before 1900
✔️03. a non-fiction book. - Reflections: On the Magic of Writing ::NEW::
04. a kids book
✔️05. a YA novel - Newt's Emerald
✔️06. a book of fantastical fiction - Crosstalk
✔️07. a cozy mystery - Murder With Peacocks
✔️08. a debut novel - Sofia Khan Is Not Obliged
09. a book of poetry or drama
✔️10. a biography/autobiography/memoir - The Princess Diarist
11. a book written by someone under the age of 30
✔️12. a media tie-in - The X-Files: Year Zero
✔️ 13. an LGBTQIA* book - When the Moon Was Ours ::NEW::
14. a book about food
✔️15. a scary/creepy book - Harrow County, Vol. 1: Countless Haints
✔️16. a book that is part of a series but not the first book - A Symphony of Echoes
✔️17. a Goodreads Choice Awards winner - The Martian
18. a book with an animal on the cover
✔️19. a book mostly set in the desert - Stranger ::NEW::
✔️20. a book that was adapted into a movie - Hidden Figures: The Untold True Story of Four African-American Women Who Helped Launch Our Nation into Space
✔️a book released in 2017 - The Marshal's Lover✔️a book written before 1900 - Ruth
✔️ a non-fiction book - The Year of Living Danishly: My Twelve Months Unearthing the Secrets of the World's Happiest Country
✔️ a kids book - A Little Princess
✔️a YA novel - Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
✔️a book of fantastical fiction (fantasy/scifi/paranormal) The Hundredth Queen
✔️a cozy mystery - The Toll-Gate
✔️ a debut novel - Ninefox Gambit
✔️ a book of poetry or drama (that is to say a play, not just ~dramatic~) - The Crucible
a biography/autobiography/memoir -
a book written by someone under the age of 30
a media tie-in (clarification in a thread)
✔️ an LGBTQIA* book - The Eagle's Heir
✔️a book about food - The Christmas Chronicles: Notes, Stories and 100 Essential Recipes for Midwinter
✔️a scary/creepy book - The Yellow Wallpaper
✔️ a book that is part of a series but not the first book (could be a later released prequel though) - Behold a Pale Horse
✔️a Goodreads Choice Awards winner (any year, any category) - The Book of Life
✔️a book with an animal on the cover - The Crow Road
a book mostly set in the desert
✔️a book that was adapted into a movie - Charlotte Gray
Making progress! I'm at 16/20. Here's my updated list.a book released in 2017 (plan to read: Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI)
✔️a book written before 1900 The Treasure of the City of Ladies, or The Book of Three Virtues
✔️a non-fiction book The Art of Forgery: The Minds, Motives and Methods of Master Forgers
✔️a kids book The Lonely Book
✔️a YA novel Gathering Blue
✔️a book of fantastical fiction (fantasy/scifi/paranormal) 11/22/63
✔️a cozy mystery Have His Carcase Have His Carcase
✔️a debut novel The Outsiders
✔️a book of poetry or drama The Dream of a Common Language: Poems, 1974-1977
✔️a biography/autobiography/memoir As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride
✔️a book written by someone under the age of 30 Hyperbole and a Half: Unfortunate Situations, Flawed Coping Mechanisms, Mayhem, and Other Things That Happened
✔️a media tie-in Doctor Who: The Angel's Kiss (Doctor Who tie-in)
✔️an LGBTQIA* book Annie on My Mind
✔️a book about food The Food Section: Newspaper Women and the Culinary Community
a scary/creepy book (plan to read: Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers)
✔️a book that is part of a series but not the first book (could be a later released prequel though) Trunk Music (Harry Bosch #5)
a Goodreads Choice Awards winner (any year, any category) (plan to read: The Underground Railroad)
✔️a book with an animal on the cover Unusual Uses for Olive Oil
✔️a book mostly set in the desert Crocodile on the Sandbank
a book that was adapted into a movie (In Progress: Marathon Man)
BONUS: watch a movie that was based on a book! (maybe make it the same as #20)
I saw Hidden Figures, based on: Hidden Figures: The Untold True Story of Four African-American Women Who Helped Launch Our Nation into Space
Nancy wrote: "Well I just joined so thought I would throw my list out there and see what sticks LOL. I already feel slow and behind with so many of you almost finished with the challenge.a book released in 201..."
Well the hurricane gave me time to catch up on a lot of reading. Unfortunately nothing that adds to my challenge list LOL.
Mod
The Girl from Everywhere by Heidi Heilig will be my entry for debut novel. It was pretty nice and I read the sequel as well. Easy YA but not the same as so many of the other ones I've read (it isn't post apocalyptic haha). Interesting premise as well.
The First Fifteen Lives of Harry August by Claire North who wrote it when under 30 (she might still be? I dunno). Thanks to whoever suggested that one! Took a while to get into but it gained some momentum and turned out to be quite fascinating.
And finally, Venturess by Betsy Cornwell for the LGBTQIA* category. I am home sick from work and thought I could just as well finish this one. Unless I read something even more obviously queer this is what I'll go with. It features a clear poly relationship, and the main character is bi or pan I assume (she is in love with, and in a relationship with, both a man and a woman after all) Really good book. If you haven't read the first book in the duology you should. It's called Mechanica and is a feminist steampunk Cinderella.
I'm not gonna lie, I spent a lot of time this summer watching old episodes of CSI instead of reading. Whoops. >.>I'm up to 16/20 though, and I'm in progress on a book written before 1900 - which was a real worry for me, as I find most of the classics to be incredibly boring - and I'm hoping to be done by the end of October!
✔️01. a book released in 2017 - Etched in Bone
02. a book written before 1900
✔️03. a non-fiction book. - Reflections: On the Magic of Writing
04. a kids book
✔️05. a YA novel - Newt's Emerald
✔️06. a book of fantastical fiction - Crosstalk
✔️07. a cozy mystery - Murder With Peacocks
✔️08. a debut novel - Sofia Khan Is Not Obliged
✔️09. a book of poetry or drama - Horoscopes for the Dead ::NEW::
✔️10. a biography/autobiography/memoir - The Princess Diarist
✔️11. a book written by someone under the age of 30 - Dumplin' ::NEW::
✔️12. a media tie-in - The X-Files: Year Zero
✔️13. an LGBTQIA* book - When the Moon Was Ours
14. a book about food
✔️15. a scary/creepy book - The Haunting of Hill House
✔️16. a book that is part of a series but not the first book - A Symphony of Echoes
✔️17. a Goodreads Choice Awards winner - The Martian
18. a book with an animal on the cover
✔️19. a book mostly set in the desert - Stranger
✔️20. a book that was adapted into a movie - Hidden Figures: The Untold True Story of Four African-American Women Who Helped Launch Our Nation into pace
A challenge of relative ease and merriment 2017
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Rebecka: I'm so glad you enjoyed The Ocean At The End Of The Lane! May I recommend Neil Gaiman's short story Collections? Those are by far my favourite books of his. Especially Smoke and Mirrors: Short Fiction and Illusions