INTRODUCTION - CATHERINE THE GREAT (SPOILER THREAD)

[Jeannine]

This is Jeannine... I am interested. Is there a private way to post my mailing address or do I post it publicly?
I am headed off to work and can't reply until later tonight. --Jeannine

[Cynthia]

Hi, Bentley. Are are we still scheduled to start reading this on Monday?

[Bentley, Group Founder, Leader, Chief]

Yes - July 9th.

[Scarlet]

Hello, I would like to participate.

[Marilee]

I've started reading... Great book, well written, not at all dry. I won't comment further other than to say I'm enjoying getting to know our subject and I think most will share my reaction. Just when I find myself wondering who this or that personage is, or what is their role in events ... There's a graceful explanation, putting all into context. So no worries if your Russian history is rusty ... As mine is in spots... I feel confident that this read will be as enlightening as it is enjoyable.

[Michael]

I love the new Banner of Catherines Palace. I was lucky enough to visit there 6 years ago it was a magnificent place.

[Bentley, Group Founder, Leader, Chief]

Thank you and glad you like the banner. Lucky you.

[Athens]

Hi everybody, officially on page zero, starting the book today. It was a good experience to link in with other current readers by viewing profiles.

[Bentley, Group Founder, Leader, Chief]

Welcome Paul, I will be putting up the first threads today.

[Debye]

I've read through Chapter 6 and thoroughly enjoying it. Though I do wish there was a few genealogical charts to keep everyone straight!!

[Doug]

Agreed Debye, some charts would be helpful. Regardless it's a terrific read. The story flows nicely without getting bogged down in too much detail. I wonder how much more difficult it would have been to write without Catherine's own recollections. It's a minor point, but when reading history - especially biographical history - it's also helpful to put the events in context with what other events are taking place in the world at the time. Helps to look at the events in perspective.

[Greg]

Just from the quotations I've seen so far, I'm amazed by how open and honest Catherine's memoirs were. They must not have been intended for publication.

[Alisa]

Hello everyone, glad you have all started reading and commenting. My apology for the delay in launching the first weekly thread Due to an unfortunate technology issue since resolved.

You will see every Monday we will open a new thread for discussion of that week's readings. That is the place where you can comment on the chapters subject to that week's reading. A glossary and bibliography will also be offered and updated during the course of the book. You are also welcome to add items there of interest and I will do my best to keep it all current as well. It is important to note that the glossary may be a spoiler thread but the weekly discussions are intended to cover ONLY those pages noted. The chapter numbers are noted in addition to the page numbers but if you have any questions please ask.

Good to have so many folks participating in this read. The first weekly thread is open. Please join and comment! I look forward to reading with you.

[Nita]

I agree to the t's and c's and will review this book. I definitely would like a copy.

[Bentley, Group Founder, Leader, Chief]

Nita, this book offer was closed years ago.