Nominations for August Group Read

[Paula]

Boof wrote: "OK, just realised my mistake - sorry guys! I didn't get an invitation to vote so assumed the poll hadn't been done. I now see it has."

That's my fault, too! I must not have clicked on the part where you send everyone notification regarding the poll. My apologies!

[Everyman]

In respect of our forthcoming read of Hardy's FFTMC, I started a thread on Hardy under the Authors topic, which is pretty well down the home page so I mention it here in case it might otherwise get overlooked.

[The Book Whisperer (aka Boof)]

OK, to clear up any confusion moving forward I have ended the newest poll today (only a day early). The winning book from the second poll was also Far From the Madding Crowd which is also fairer on those who have already gone and bought the book.

The group read will start on August 1st and will last for 6 weeks (it's a fairly average length book and 6 weeks means we don't have to rush it).

Did the person who nomianted FFTMC want to lead the discussion? If not, would anyone else like to volunteer?

[[deleted user]]

I wouldn't like to lead the discussion, chiefly because I'm not going to be here most of August. I'll pass the baton on... :-)

[Captain Sir Roddy, R.N. (Ret.)]

Well, seeing that as I have been shooting my mouth off about Hardy for the past few weeks, and if you are all willing to accept me, I will happily volunteer to lead the discussion of "Far From the Madding Crowd."

[[deleted user]]

The best man for the job!

[Everyman]

Christopher wrote: "Well, seeing that as I have been shooting my mouth off about Hardy for the past few weeks, and if you are all willing to accept me, I will happily volunteer to lead the discussion of "Far From the ..."

This will be a vision to behold: Saint Christopher Leading the Madding Crowd. A fit topic for a Medieval artist.

[Paula]

Christopher wrote: "Well, seeing that as I have been shooting my mouth off about Hardy for the past few weeks, and if you are all willing to accept me, I will happily volunteer to lead the discussion of "Far From the ..."

Sounds great, Chris! Just let us know how you want the discussion posts set up and we'll take care of it. What great incentive to read the book, knowing you are leading the discussion!

[Captain Sir Roddy, R.N. (Ret.)]

Question: What is the time frame for the group read? Is it one month, or two?

The novel was originally published in twelve parts in Cornhill Magazine by Sir Leslie Stephen (Virginia Woolf's father) from January to December 1874.

Consequently, if it is a one-month time-frame that we have, then I would propose four sections (one per week), with each section covering approximately 100 pages.

If it is a two-month time-frame, I believe that I would still propose the same four sections, but just increase the discussion period from one-week to two.

I think a lead-off section for background and related information would be useful too. I can include a link to maps of Wessex, and of the immediate area depicted in the novel. There are lots of other tidbits and links to Hardyana that might be fun for the group.

Let me know and the applicable schedule. I will then reply back with the section headings, chapters included, and dates.

I think that is it, for the time being. Thanks, Paula!

[Joy]

Christopher wrote: "Question: What is the time frame for the group read? Is it one month, or two?"

Above (#54), Boof said it would be for 6 weeks starting August 1st.

[Paula]

What Joy said :)

Amd Chris, I'll be happy to set up those folders for August 1st (picture the "I Dream of Genie" arm clasp and head bob) - it shall be done! :)