THE JAMES MASON COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB discussion
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WHAT ARE YOU READING AND WHY!!
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Barbara
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Jan 13, 2011 06:47AM
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I'm reading "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn," which I downloaded months ago on my Kindle. I haven't read it since I was in junior high school forty years ago, so I've forgotten most of it. I also downnloaded Twain's autobiography and felt I'd appreciate it more if I had a fresh memory of his most famous work. I'd already started it before the controversy over the sanitized version with all the "n-words" changed to "slave" erupted, but that issue makes it all the more interesting.
"Life" - Keith Richards. I grabbed it because I've long been fascinated with how great song concepts - the licks and the lyrics - are hatched. Drugs? Sure. But he also wrote one riff in his sleep.Never expected to laugh out loud this much while reading a rock autobio. Deviously funny. Grounded. Yet such a smart book.
I've started reading "Breathing the Page: Reading the Act of Writing" by Betsy Warland, because it was highly recommended by one of my editors. So far, it's an amazing book that's helped me look at writing (mine and others) in a different way. Really good stuff.
Barbara wrote: "I started listening to the audio of Rules of Vengeance by Christopher Reich."
I am reading his new book- Rules of Betrayal - excellant book!
I am also reading Member Rickey Bray's novel- Rendezvous Rock - also a terrific read!!!
I am reading his new book- Rules of Betrayal - excellant book!
I am also reading Member Rickey Bray's novel- Rendezvous Rock - also a terrific read!!!
Bill wrote: ""Life" - Keith Richards. I grabbed it because I've long been fascinated with how great song concepts - the licks and the lyrics - are hatched. Drugs? Sure. But he also wrote one riff in his sleep...."
I'm glad you wrote this, because I'm not much of a bio/autobio girl, but was intrigued by this one. Sounds like I'd like it, so I'm adding it to the list. Thanks!
Just finished Infinity by Sherrilyn Kenyon, now reading Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare and finishing up Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld. I've got several books on hold at the library; I'll be having surgery in less than two weeks and will have plenty to read (including sci-fi such as Across the Universe by Beth Revis and Hull Zero Three by Greg Bear, Baltimore: Or The Steadfast Tin Soldier and the Vampire by Mike Mignola, Blameless by Gail Carriger, and Iron Man by Peter David.) There's more, but I'll stop now! :)
I'm currently reading The Painted Boyby Charles De Lint. De Lint's fantasies often deal with contemporary issues. This one deals with the effect of gangs.
Shomeret wrote: "I'm currently reading The Painted Boyby Charles De Lint. De Lint's fantasies often deal with contemporary issues. This one deals with the effect of gangs."
new author for me- need to check him out!!
new author for me- need to check him out!!
Good question. I'm reading several books:1. Sherwin Nuland's biography of Maimonides
2. David Aaronovitch's Voodoo Histories: The Role of Conspiracy Theory In Shaping Modern History
3. The Nativity: History and Legend by Geza Vermes
If you ever get bored. check out my book blog:
http://maphead.wordpress.com/
Maphead wrote: "Good question. I'm reading several books:
1. Sherwin Nuland's biography of Maimonides
2. David Aaronovitch's Voodoo Histories: The Role of Conspiracy Theory In Shaping Modern History
3. The Nativit..."
Sherwin Nuland is the brother in law of a good friend of my mother, who she (my Mom) worked with for years in NY. His late brother was her friend Loretta's husband
1. Sherwin Nuland's biography of Maimonides
2. David Aaronovitch's Voodoo Histories: The Role of Conspiracy Theory In Shaping Modern History
3. The Nativit..."
Sherwin Nuland is the brother in law of a good friend of my mother, who she (my Mom) worked with for years in NY. His late brother was her friend Loretta's husband
Rick wrote: "Maphead wrote: "Good question. I'm reading several books:1. Sherwin Nuland's biography of Maimonides
2. David Aaronovitch's Voodoo Histories: The Role of Conspiracy Theory In Shaping Modern Hist..."
Rick wrote: "Maphead wrote: "Good question. I'm reading several books:
1. Sherwin Nuland's biography of Maimonides
2. David Aaronovitch's Voodoo Histories: The Role of Conspiracy Theory In Shaping Modern Hist..."
Wild ! Small world ! I read Nuland's years ago and loved it.
Currently rereading
for a reading challenge for the year. I've got about 25 books for this challenge, so I wanted to get a good start on it now!!
Just completed the The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime and will begin The Imperfectionists today.
Shomeret wrote: "I gave Sherwin Nuland's bio of Maimonides to my father for his 80th birthday."
His brother was a very successful accountant- who passed away about 20 years ago. I went to Harvey Nuland's funeral and it was extremely crowded.
His brother was a very successful accountant- who passed away about 20 years ago. I went to Harvey Nuland's funeral and it was extremely crowded.
I just finished Dragon slippers and Uglies!! Both great books!
Hannah wrote: "Currently rereading
for a reading challenge for the year. I've got about 25 books for this challenge, so I wanted to get a good start on it now!!"I had that one on a challenge list but couldn't wait and read it before the start date. Now my son is reading it, his first "real" chapter book. Yes, there was bribery involved :)
I finished Heart-Shaped Box last night and it was ok. I'm into Katherine now and really enjoying it. May start Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe too.
I'm now reading The Divine Sacrificeby Tony Hays, the second in a series of Arthurian mysteries. The main character is asked by King Arthur to investigate a murder at Glastonbury Abbey.
Just finished TO HAVE AND TO KILL by Mary Jane Clark...not a bad mystery.Check out my review on my blog:
http://silversolara.blogspot.com/2011...
I am currently reading A LONELY DEATH by Charles Todd.
Happy Saturday.
Carmel wrote: "Kristine wrote: " May start Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe..."
Kristine, the movie of this book would be in my top 10 favourite movies, just brilliant!"
I agree- just a fantastic film- a rare gem!- Jessica Tandy was so very good!
Kristine, the movie of this book would be in my top 10 favourite movies, just brilliant!"
I agree- just a fantastic film- a rare gem!- Jessica Tandy was so very good!
Kristine wrote: "Hannah wrote: "Currently rereading
for a reading challenge for the year. I've got about 25 books for this challenge, so I wanted to get a good start on it now!!"..."
wonderful!!! Kristine- I remember when I read my first chapter book- it was a major event for me!!
for a reading challenge for the year. I've got about 25 books for this challenge, so I wanted to get a good start on it now!!"..."wonderful!!! Kristine- I remember when I read my first chapter book- it was a major event for me!!
Has anyone read "Shiver", by Maggie Stiefvater?I have a nagging problem with how the timeline is set within this novel, and I could use some assistance. Perhaps I am missing something ... but, the ages of our two young people - Grace & Sam - remain unbalanced. Let me summarize:
The author is very specific when defining the timeline for Sam. Not so much for Grace. At Book "present day", Grace is 17 and Sam is 18 years of age (only a year apart).
Sam was a child of 7 years when he was attached and bitten by werewolves, and he has been a wolf for 11 years. Sam first saw Grace as a little girl 6 years ago, when she was attacked in her back yard -- thereby putting Sam at age 12 years when Grace was bitten. So ... that would make Grace 11 years of age when she was first attacked. Okay, see ... here is where I become tangled up in the timeline. Grace continues with her story by stating that she did indeed become very ill after being bitten, and also around this time, was accidentally locked in the car by her father (Her parents appear to be vaguely aware of their offspring). But ... How does a young girl of 11 years get locked in a car?
The timeline just does not add up! What am I overlooking? Help ... if anyone can sort this out, please do so -- this is driving me towards an unconscionable distraction.
L...it's been awhile since I read it, but I think you've misunderstood. I remember Grace being a toddler or preschool age when locked in the car. I have to check it out now and see if I can make some sense of it or if I too, will realize there is something seriously off. I do know that when they are wolf, time feels different. I will get back to you :)
Right now I am readingDeath by Darjeelingand a humor bookSh*t My Dad SaysI am doing a reading challenge for 2011 see if I can read more than 52 books or at least equal it.
Carmel wrote: "Kristine wrote: " May start Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe..."Kristine, the movie of this book would be in my top 10 favourite movies, just brilliant!"
I read the book and saw the movie, and loved both. It's one of those books that's stayed with me for years.
L' wrote: "Has anyone read "Shiver", by Maggie Stiefvater?I have a nagging problem with how the timeline is set within this novel, and I could use some assistance. Perhaps I am missing something ... but, th..."
I would have to check as well, as it's been awhile since I read it. One thought though - you might want to edit your post to reflect that it contains spoilers, in case others haven't read it yet. :)
Although I am thoroughly loving it, I had to put The Book of Ebenezer Le Page by G. B. Edwards aside, and start reading some books for my adult education classes that start next month. I have just started The Mark of the Angel by Nancy Huston for my French Lit. in Translation Class. I really like this one, also. What are the chances, though, that I would put down one book with a character named Le Page, and pick up another with a chracter named Lepage? Are the fates trying to tell me something? If so, what? Turn the page? Accept my new astrological sign (never; Capricorn forever!)?
Just finished ~Wolf Hall which i've got to admit i didn't love, great technique but just left me flat. Am now reading Long Song which is a far better read, am absolutely loving it.
jo wrote: "Just finished ~Wolf Hall which i've got to admit i didn't love, great technique but just left me flat. Am now reading Long Song which is a far better read, am absolutely loving it."No, don't say that about Wolf Hall. It's on my TBR list. I loved it and got it just for the cover alone. But, maybe I subconsciously picked up on its potential for "dry and dustiness" and that's why I haven't felt the urge to actually pick it up and read it ever.
Shay wrote: "jo wrote: "Just finished ~Wolf Hall which i've got to admit i didn't love, great technique but just left me flat. Am now reading Long Song which is a far better read, am absolutely loving it."No..."
I consider Wolf Hall one of the best books I read in 2010. But, as always in these matters, it has more to do with personal interests/taste than anything else. I hope you enjoy it, Shay.
J.R. wrote: "Shay wrote: "jo wrote: "Just finished ~Wolf Hall which i've got to admit i didn't love, great technique but just left me flat. Am now reading Long Song which is a far better read, am absolutely lo..."Although i'm a historian at heart, i don't enjoy historical fiction as it always bothers me that none of the dialogue is real, the nature of the people are unknown to a point, etc, this is why i didn't love wolf hall. I will say mantel's writing technique is great and it probably deserved the praise it received just wasn't for me :(
I'm about to finish Leaven of Malice this afternoon. It's a fun, witty book about a practical joke played in a small town. The repercussions of the joke spread throughout the town and into the lives of totally unrelated people. Interesting take on the "ripple effect". Robertson Davies' sense of wit and humour add a touch of fun to the entire book and I like his characters.I'm still reading War and Peace, too. I'm alomost finished with Volume 1.
J.R. wrote: "Shay wrote: "jo wrote: "Just finished ~Wolf Hall which i've got to admit i didn't love, great technique but just left me flat. Am now reading Long Song which is a far better read, am absolutely lo..."
jo wrote: "J.R. wrote: "Shay wrote: "jo wrote: "Just finished ~Wolf Hall which i've got to admit i didn't love, great technique but just left me flat. Am now reading Long Song which is a far better read, am ..."
Shay wrote: "jo wrote: "Just finished ~Wolf Hall which i've got to admit i didn't love, great technique but just left me flat. Am now reading Long Song which is a far better read, am absolutely loving it."
No..."
jo wrote: "Just finished ~Wolf Hall which i've got to admit i didn't love, great technique but just left me flat. Am now reading Long Song which is a far better read, am absolutely loving it."
Wolf Hall!! A book I bought when it came out- and which I have displayed in my room...and a book I have yet to read!! I think it was a combo of the publicity (Man-Booker Award) and cover as well as the time period-Cromwell- I still plan on reading it- and well..it does look nice on my shelf!
jo wrote: "J.R. wrote: "Shay wrote: "jo wrote: "Just finished ~Wolf Hall which i've got to admit i didn't love, great technique but just left me flat. Am now reading Long Song which is a far better read, am ..."
Shay wrote: "jo wrote: "Just finished ~Wolf Hall which i've got to admit i didn't love, great technique but just left me flat. Am now reading Long Song which is a far better read, am absolutely loving it."
No..."
jo wrote: "Just finished ~Wolf Hall which i've got to admit i didn't love, great technique but just left me flat. Am now reading Long Song which is a far better read, am absolutely loving it."
Wolf Hall!! A book I bought when it came out- and which I have displayed in my room...and a book I have yet to read!! I think it was a combo of the publicity (Man-Booker Award) and cover as well as the time period-Cromwell- I still plan on reading it- and well..it does look nice on my shelf!
L' wrote: "Has anyone read "Shiver", by Maggie Stiefvater?I have a nagging problem with how the timeline is set within this novel, and I could use some assistance. Perhaps I am missing something ... but, th..."
I just recently read this... and from what I remember, she was only a little kid when she got locked in the car... she wasnt big enough etc to get herself out... hmmm will have to go back and check out the details... interesting find tho! :)
Rick wrote: "J.R. wrote: "Shay wrote: "jo wrote: "Just finished ~Wolf Hall which i've got to admit i didn't love, great technique but just left me flat. Am now reading Long Song which is a far better read, am ..."I am really sorry to say this and put a dampener on it, but I was really disappointed with Wolf Hall... I hope that you find it more enjoyable though :)
p.s. do think mine looks very nice on the shelf though :P
Sophie wrote: "Rick wrote: "J.R. wrote: "Shay wrote: "jo wrote: "Just finished ~Wolf Hall which i've got to admit i didn't love, great technique but just left me flat. Am now reading Long Song which is a far bet..."
it really does make my room seem more "sophisticated"!
as does the huge - untouched :>( - Leatherbound Complete Works of Shakespeare
it really does make my room seem more "sophisticated"!
as does the huge - untouched :>( - Leatherbound Complete Works of Shakespeare
Rick wrote: "Sophie wrote: "Rick wrote: "J.R. wrote: "Shay wrote: "jo wrote: "Just finished ~Wolf Hall which i've got to admit i didn't love, great technique but just left me flat. Am now reading Long Song whi..."haha... it's all about appearances :P
Robin wrote: "To hear Olivier reciting Shakespeare, must be like heaven on earth! I need to rent videos with Sir Laurence Olivier performing his rendition of the bard's work."I fell in love with Sir Laurence Olivier when I was young and impressive. Now I'm older and have even stronger emotions.
Rick wrote: "Barbara wrote: "I started listening to the audio of Rules of Vengeance by Christopher Reich."I am reading his new book- Rules of Betrayal - excellant book![bookcov..."
Rick wrote: "Barbara wrote: "I started listening to the audio of [book:Rules of Vengeance|6187445] by Christopher Reich."
I am reading his new book- Rules of Betrayal - excellant book






