SPRING 2021 READING CHALLENGE

[Dustin the wind Crazy little brown owl, Colorful Colorado]

I might have to ride on a broomstick at some point.
I'm still waiting on an audiobook from the library to experience Later by Stephen King.

[Rachel]

Janet wrote: "Finished and enjoyed Not going to be in my top 5 fav Stephen King's...but not bad.

Still plugging away at the Leonardo Da Vinci bio...read a few others in between...none..."

Thanks for the updates, Janet!
Glad you enjoy the author part of the challenge-I always love seeing which books everyone chooses (and adding to my own tbr :)

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts about the DaVinci book as well as . Hope you enjoy them.

Also looking forward to :D

[Rachel]

Dustin Crazy little brown owl wrote: "I might have to ride on a broomstick at some point.
I'm still waiting on an audiobook from the library to experience Later by Stephen King."

Thanks for the updates, Dustin! :D
I think you would enjoy it- definitely captures the 80’s vibe. Look forward to your thoughts if you decide to read it.
Enjoy !

[Dustin the wind Crazy little brown owl, Colorful Colorado]

Well, it might be a while on the broomsticks because an old school audiobook isn't available. These days the library has lots of ebooks and e - audiobooks, which I'm not ready to experience. I like to keep it old school and familiar, so I'll have to read the broomsticks in good old printed format, probably not before the end of the challenge in May, but I'm keeping it as a future possibility. Some of these new authors we're being introduced to kinda stick with me after the seasonal challenge. I think I will enjoy Broomsticks more than the author's She Weeps Each Time Your Born - I had thought I'd give that one three stars the whole time I was reading it, but as I was writing my review, found so many profound and curious passages I had marked that I just had to give it She Weeps Each Time You're Born four stars even though it's not one I intend to re-read.

People are really excited for 2 Stephen King new releases in one year.

[Janet]

Just finished Excellent memoir, though not written in the typical format (which I LOVED). This woman can write! My initial impression was 4 stars, but the last essay, based on her daughter, pushed it over the top to 5 for me. It gave me all the feels and a perspective (concerning severe allergies) that I hadn't considered.........not just peanuts in a dish...but the TONGs used to pick up a food item had previously picked up something with peanuts. Or if someone in the wading pool had used sunscreen with almond oil! Everyday life can be a terror.

This book of brushes with death made me think of my own near misses. Whew!

[Dustin the wind Crazy little brown owl, Colorful Colorado]

Thanks for the recommendation!
Maggie wasn't on my radar at all. I'll see if the library has I Am I Am.

[Rachel]

Dustin Crazy little brown owl wrote: "Well, it might be a while on the broomsticks because an old school audiobook isn't available. These days the library has lots of ebooks and e - audiobooks, which I'm not ready to experience. I like..."

I think when you’re ready to give e audiobooks a try, you won’t find too much difference between the two when it comes to the listening experience. Anyway that’s just my two cents-I respect that you’re old school. :D

[Rachel]

Today is independent book store day!

[Rachel]

Janet wrote: "Just finished Excellent memoir, though not written in the typical format (which I LOVED). This woman can write! My initial impres..."

It’s crazy how many products contain or come into contact with nuts. I guess all you can do is be vigilant.

Glad you enjoyed the book.

[Dustin the wind Crazy little brown owl, Colorful Colorado]

Yeah, I know the day will come, I just resist change. It was a big thing for me to switch from a portable CD Player to MP3 in 2016. I switched from flip phone to smart phone in 2017.

[Rachel]

Dustin Crazy little brown owl wrote: "Yeah, I know the day will come, I just resist change. It was a big thing for me to switch from a portable CD Player to MP3 in 2016. I switched from flip phone to smart phone in 2017."

I’m not a big fan of change either.
I also kind of miss those flip phones. :D

[Christine]

Hey Everyone! I just realized I haven't checked in here in over a month! No particular reason. I haven't gone anywhere, still playing it safe with Covid. I am getting my 2nd vaccine this week so I am hoping for a bit more freedom soon. I have been reading away. I have 2 books done for the challenge. Should finish another this week.

for a character with their life turned upside down, its a modern re-telling of Sense & Sensibility

I think I am one of the few who had not read Jenny Lawson until now. What an inspiring book on mental illness. I loved the part with Rory.

Rachel, thanks for reminding me to check in.

[Rachel]

Christine wrote: "Hey Everyone! I just realized I haven't checked in here in over a month! No particular reason. I haven't gone anywhere, still playing it safe with Covid. I am getting my 2nd vaccine this week so I ..."

So good to see you post, Christine! Missed you! :D
Glad you’re doing well. I just got my 2nd vaccine on the 22nd.

Thanks for the updates. I loved the part with Rory too.

[Rachel]

Okay everyone, I know it’s still early but I tend to plan the challenges in advance (or at least part of it). Anyway, I’m having a hard time deciding on a summer group read.

So a few questions:
Do you want a summer group read?
If so a new release or an older title?

Some possible titles I was thinking about:
Malibu Rising

Mother May I

The Plot


Please let me know your thoughts. I know these are all new releases but if we decide sooner rather than later, those getting the books from the library can get on the hold list early. Of course if you have suggestions for backlist titles, please let me know.

[Christine]

Wow! I can see why you are having a hard time picking one of those. I just got Mother May I on Libby so I will be reading it now. Joshilyn Jackson is a favorite author of mine so always a good choice. Her books are always an entertaining read but there's almost always something meaty to the story, good for discussion.
I also loved Daisy Jones & The Six, so Malibu Rising intrigues me. I will probably read it too.

Just an idea for a challenge task, something from fantasy or science fiction?????

[Rachel]

Christine wrote: "Wow! I can see why you are having a hard time picking one of those. I just got Mother May I on Libby so I will be reading it now. Joshilyn Jackson is a favorite author of mine so always a good choi..."

Look forward to hearing what you think of .

I love the idea of science fiction or fantasy novels being in the challenge. Thanks for the suggestion (and look for it in the summer challenge :)

[Franzi]

Hello everyone
Hope you’re enjoying the lovely spring weather ( well I hope you have nice warmer weather where you are).
I didn’t read much in April but finished book 6/7 for the challenge this morning and it was my absolute favourite- Hamnet by Maggie O Farrell. Wow!

I usually like fast paced books, a good plot . I initially only picked Hamnet for our challenge and because I’ve seen so many people read it lately... but oh how I love it! I didn’t want to pick this first as it said it’s very descriptive and I wasn’t sure I’m a fan of this type of book but I now know I am!
The description of how the plague was transmitted or how Agnes tried to cope with the loss on her child’s deathbed will stick with me for a long time. What a great read ❤️👍🏼

Now I have a month to finish my final choice „The Other Boleyn Girl“ which I have been reading for almost a year 😂🙈
I like it but it’s just veered slow and repetitive and doesn’t grab me

[Rachel]

Franzi wrote: "Hello everyone
Hope you’re enjoying the lovely spring weather ( well I hope you have nice warmer weather where you are).
I didn’t read much in April but finished book 6/7 for the challenge this m..."

Thanks for the update, Franzi! :D
Glad you enjoyed .

[Christine]

I have been hearing a lot of good things about

I just finished Its counts for WINE. It was really really good. I loved the main character even if she could be prickly. Its the surprises at the end that will blow you away!

[Rachel]

Christine wrote: "I have been hearing a lot of good things about

I just finished Its counts for WINE. It was really really good. I loved the main..."

Thanks for the update, Christine! :D

Glad to hear you enjoyed -will have to move that up on my tbr.

[Janet]

Franzi wrote: "Hello everyone
Hope you’re enjoying the lovely spring weather ( well I hope you have nice warmer weather where you are).
I didn’t read much in April but finished book 6/7 for the challenge this m..."

Glad to hear you loved Hamnet! I am now a fan of Maggie O'Farrell after reading I Am I Am I Am, and will be adding Hamnet to my tbr.

[Janet]

Rachel wrote: "Okay everyone, I know it’s still early but I tend to plan the challenges in advance (or at least part of it). Anyway, I’m having a hard time deciding on a summer group read.

So a few questions:
Do..."

Oh boy! Mother May I sounds so good! I really enjoyed Joshilyn Jackson's Never Have I Ever. The Plot sounds intriguing as well! Tough decisions...thanks for all the thought you put into these challenges!

[Janet]

Time for an update. Read (and LOVED)

Currently reading for our Task 5: Mental Health Month. I took some liberties with this choice, as it's not a memoir or essay collection. It's the story of a family from here in Colorado that consisted of twelve children (10 boys 2 girls), with six of the boys diagnosed with schizophrenia. It's a fascinating read so far.

Also listening to when out and about running errands

[Dustin the wind Crazy little brown owl, Colorful Colorado]

I finally got Later by Stephen King from the library today, so I'll be starting that one soon. I'm currently re-reading Furiously Happy by Jenny Lawson.

[Dustin the wind Crazy little brown owl, Colorful Colorado]

My library doesn't currently have an audio of The Plot on order, so that one might be harder for me to participate with. Mother May I sounds intriguing and Malibu Rising has a very high rating on Goodreads. I'd be willing to read either of those.

[Rachel]

Janet wrote: "Rachel wrote: "Okay everyone, I know it’s still early but I tend to plan the challenges in advance (or at least part of it). Anyway, I’m having a hard time deciding on a summer group read.

So a fe..."

Thanks Janet! :D

[Rachel]

Janet wrote: "Time for an update. Read (and LOVED)

Currently reading for our Task 5: Mental Hea..."

Thanks for the update, Janet! :D
I really enjoyed too.

[bookcover:Hidden Valley Road: Inside the Mind of an American Family|50088631 is actually perfect for the challenge- I just wanted to encourage nonfiction books that dealt with mental health. Look forward to hearing more of your thoughts about it when you finish it.

[Rachel]

Dustin Crazy little brown owl wrote: "I finally got Later by Stephen King from the library today, so I'll be starting that one soon. I'm currently re-reading Furiously Happy by Jenny Lawson.
[bookcover:Furiou..."

Thanks for the update, Dustin! :D
Hope you enjoy them.

[Rachel]

Dustin Crazy little brown owl wrote: "My library doesn't currently have an audio of The Plot on order, so that one might be harder for me to participate with. Mother May I sounds intriguing and Malibu Rising has a very high rating on G..."

Thanks Dustin! :)

[Rachel]

Thanks for the feedback, everyone! I think I’ll probably just feature 2 books for the summer group read.

Mother May I

and

Malibu Rising

[Dustin the wind Crazy little brown owl, Colorful Colorado]

Current movie recommendation: Limbo
This film is quite quirky. A story of refugees and trying to connect to family. Omar is from Syria and stuck in Limbo with other refugees on a remote Scottish Island. Recently broken his hand, Omar worries about his once promising skills as a musician.
At some points, mystical with the Northern Lights and other times a dark comedy drama with disturbing elements.
Limbo contains a chicken love interest which is reminiscent of The Muppets Gonzo/ Camilla the chicken relationship.
-------------------

I haven't stopped in here much lately because I'm currently working 7 days a week, but I'm still reading everyday and actually ahead of schedule on my reading goals (yearly and seasonal).

[Rachel]

Dustin the wind Crazy little brown owl wrote: "Current movie recommendation: Limbo
This film is quite quirky. A story of refugees and trying to connect to family. Omar is from Syria and stuck in Limbo with other refugees on a remote Scottish Is..."



It’s always good to see you post-I know you’ve been busy working extra hours. Thanks as always for the move recommendations! :D

I heard Minari got some Oscar love-hope to check it out soon. Enjoyed Nomadland.

[Janet]

Finished I first heard about this book on NPR and was intrigued by the Colorado connection. It's a good one for task 5!

This was a disturbing, yet fascinating read...a very in depth account of this unique family, interspersed with the history and science and studies of schizophrenia. 4.5 stars

I found myself angry at the parents, and part of this account made me think of the Duggars (20 children) and their oldest son's proclivity for molestation.

And finally, this book is heartbreaking...while significant progress has been made in the mental health arena over the decades, we've not come near far enough.

Will be reading my book club's choice next...I don't think it will fit any of our tasks

[Dustin the wind Crazy little brown owl, Colorful Colorado]

Thanks Janet marked that American Family as "to read". On a related topic, there was a film in theaters last fall that I really like, now available on DVD. "Words on Bathroom Walls", based on a book too I think as many films are.

[Dustin the wind Crazy little brown owl, Colorful Colorado]

Rachel, I really liked Minari. I liked Minari even more than Nomadland. Many of Oscar Nominees this year dealt with real issues like dementia, low income senior living, stroke, hardships, rape, revenge and bringing up past events. Some moviegoers had a difficult time dealing with the reality presented on screen after surviving 2020 and we heard many different reactions after people watched these films. Several people walked out of the Oscar nominated films - more than is typical.
The thing that impressed me most about Nomadland was the non-actor people who represented themselves and the lifestyle in the film.
Minari transports viewers back to the 1980s to rural American farmland and showcases the struggles of immigrants trying to live the American Dream. The relationship between family members is pivotal to the film. The lighting and instrumental soundtrack work well as does the addition of humor. Near the end of the film is when most of the tough issues really hit the audience.

[Rachel]

Janet wrote: "Finished I first heard about this book on NPR and was intrigued by the Colorado connection. It's a good one for task 5..."

Thanks for the update, Janet! :D
The book does sound fascinating but I think it might be too disturbing for me. Always appreciate hearing your thoughts.

Hope you enjoy .

[Rachel]

Dustin the wind Crazy little brown owl wrote: "Rachel, I really liked Minari. I liked Minari even more than Nomadland. Many of Oscar Nominees this year dealt with real issues like dementia, low income senior living, stroke, hardships, rape, rev..."

I get why people would want more escapist films after 2020 but you’d also think they would have figured out those movies would be sad based on the trailers.

I also really liked how real life nomads were an important part of the film-it was definitely a different perspective.

I just really love the trailer for Minari (which I checked out when you first recommended it). I’m hoping the humor balances out some of the sadness.

[Rachel]

I’m still listening/reading and .

I’m enjoying both of them-I’m just reading at a slower pace than usual-my attention span has just been short lately.

[Dustin the wind Crazy little brown owl, Colorful Colorado]

I'm still reading The Night Watchman too :-) Really enjoying the story so far. Also still reading Later by Stephen King. I'm currently reading over 10 books at the same time!
Finishing re-reading Furiously Happy by Jenny Lawson tonight.

[Dustin the wind Crazy little brown owl, Colorful Colorado]

One of the Spring Tasks is to read an underrated book. Earlier in the challenge I selected I Heard the Owl Call My Name.
Lately I've been on an Alexander Key Kick!
Other than Escape to Witch Mountain and The Forgotten Door, his books are underrated and out of print. I've been finding used copies on Amazon, Thrift Books and Abe Books. I've finished reading The Case of the Vanishing Boy. I'm currently reading The Preposterous Adventures of Swimmer and The Strange White Doves. Key's books are quite quirky and delightful. I'd definitely recommend them. While I love the Escape to Witch Mountain Disney movie, so far Escape to Witch Mountain is actually my least favorite Alexander Key book.
The Forgotten Door
The Preposterous Adventures of Swimmer
The Strange White Doves: True Mysteries of Nature
Jagger, the Dog from Elsewhere

[Rachel]

Thanks for the updates, Dustin! :D
Those books sound fun.

[Franzi]

I’ve finished the Challenge with my last book: The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory (prompt 2 - rivalry or feud between characters)
It was a slow read but I did like it in the end, even if she added many fictional details.

So that’s me done.

Summary

1) Hamnet - Maggie O Farrell 5/5
2) The Other Boleyn Girl - Philippa Gregory 4/5
3) Behind her Eyes - Sarah Pinborough 4/5
4) When we Believed in Mermaids - Barbara O‘Neal 3/5
5) The Man Who Couldn’t Stop - David Adam 3/5
6) Later by Stephen King 4/5
7) Family Jewels - Denise Grover Swank 5/5

Thanks so much for creating the challenge. I’m looking forward to the Summer Challenge already 🙂

[Rachel]

Franzi wrote: "I’ve finished the Challenge with my last book: The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory (prompt 2 - rivalry or feud between characters)
It was a slow read but I did like it in the end, even if sh..."

Congratulations on completing the challenge, Franzi!
Glad you enjoyed it. :D

[Janet]

Franzi wrote: "I’ve finished the Challenge with my last book: The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory (prompt 2 - rivalry or feud between characters)
It was a slow read but I did like it in the end, even if sh..."

Awesome!

[Janet]

Time for some more W I N E to finish up the challenge.

I started . Looking forward to a thriller...I've really enjoyed Karin Slaughter's other books in this series.

Dustin, have you seen Those Who Wish Me Dead yet? I really enjoyed the book it is based on! I might actually break my theater drought and go see this one...I haven't been to the movies since March 15th of last year, the day before the state shutdown. I used to go once or twice a month. I think it's time to do it.

[Rachel]

Janet wrote: "Time for some more W I N E to finish up the challenge.

I started . Looking forward to a thriller...I've really enjoyed Karin Slaughter's other books in this s..."

Thanks for the update, Janet! :D

[Rachel]

I finally saw Minari! Highly recommend.

Thanks for the recommendation, Dustin! :D

[Rachel]

Finished The Night Watchman . This is my 2nd book by this author and I’m officially a fan. Look forward to reading more of her books. I love how she blends so many different elements together to make such a multi layered story. The character of the night watchman was inspired by her grandfather and it’s a wonderful tribute. I feel like I learn a lot from her books while also just being engrossed in a great story. Recommend.

[Christine]

I did a re-read for my book that is underrated. Its a book from my childhood, written in the 1950s and probably one of the first sci-fi books I read. I was surprised that its held up as well as it has. The only thing I would do is add a girl to the adventure.


is my last book for the challenge. I started it last night and I am already hooked. Full disclosure, Stephen King is my favorite author, so why wouldn't I like it, lol

[Rachel]

Christine wrote: "I did a re-read for my book that is underrated. Its a book from my childhood, written in the 1950s and probably one of the first sci-fi books I read. I was surprised that its held up as well as it ..."

Thanks for the update, Christine! :D

Hope you enjoy! :D