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On the Island
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Garvis-Graves, Tracey: On the Island (“buddy read”) Start Date: June 26th.
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Laura
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rated it 5 stars
Jun 25, 2012 12:38PM
Looks good to me, I am ready to go!
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thanks lisa kay! Super excited :)
Lisa Kay, if I can help out with the discussion questions, let me know. I can do tomorrow or the 29th and potentially the 28th, depending on how busy the day ends up being.
Mary, that would be great! Thanks so much. I have workmen coming on the 28th and the 29th and I'm sure it will be crazy here all day.I'm just about ready to post the DQs. I did just add a glossary of terms/pictures in the first post.
I'll plan on doing the 28th and 29th, then. :) Love the glossary and the pictures!
Lisa Kay’s (and one from the Back of the Book) Questions for Chapters 1 – 11
1. This DQ is directly from the Back of the Book: The first sentence of the book tells you there is going to be a plane crash, and yet the author builds tension even before the crash. In chapter 1 Anna buys two bottles of water and tells T.J. to put one in his backpack, and as readers, we are probably aware that Mick will have a heart attack even before Anna does. Why do you think the author structured it this way? How did it enhance the read?
2. Has Anna already made a decision about her relationship with her boyfriend John? Was her decision to spend the summer away from him just a slow exit? What is the significance of her telling T.J. that she probably should be missing John more?
3. Do you like the switching POV from chapter to chapter? Advantages? Disadvantages?
4. If you were T.J.’s parents, how would you handle his being behind on his school work? Give him a break, or try to treat him as close to normal and with an attitude of it’s time to catch up?
5. Trying to survive in the middle of the ocean is bad enough, but I felt really sorry for Anna being sleep deprived on top of it! Were they pushing it to try and get to their destination? And what about T.J.’s recent remission? Will that come into play in this story?
6. How great are your survival skills? Could you make a fire without a match or lighter? Would you survive? Do you see anything Anna and T.J. should have done and didn’t? Would you have drunk the brackish water?
7. What is their greatest obstacle? Should they or shouldn’t they discuss the plane and the possibility of rescue? Should they risk getting in the life raft? (BTW, I thought the message: “Custom packs available including radio beacons and emergency locators.” were just a cruel addition by the life raft people!)
8. Do you blame Anna for stripping down to her bra and panties for a swim? Did you smile when T.J. later told Anna to just think of his as swim attire also? When the trapping of civilization are stripped from you, does that strip them from your psyche also? In what ways are the two of them hanging on to civilization? Letting go?
9. Would you have been able to handle and bury Mick, given the condition his body? Would you have sacrificed the blanket? There was no mention of a prayer or blessing said over him. Did you find that odd? Or did you pay it no mind?
10. If you were in Anna and T.J’s situation and you had a suitcase full of stuff wash ashore on a deserted island, what would you want to have inside?
Please put your answers in bold, if you can remember! Thanks!
Added more pictures of the area to Post #2.
Beautiful pictures, LK! I wouldn't mind being stuck there.
Yeah, but not without food or water, Sashana! If I had one of those little huts, maybe! That and plenty of food, water, fire, sunscreen and a mosquito net.
Lisa Kay wrote: "Yeah, but not without food or water, Sashana! If I had one of those little huts, maybe! That and plenty of food, water, fire, sunscreen and a mosquito net."I know, the lack of technology, books, and chocolate would drive me crazy after a few hours.
I think I could live with out the technology and chocolate, but the lack of books would drive me crazy.
Unisex Ray ban aviator sunglasses
Lisa Kay’s (and one from the Back of the Book) Questions for Chapters 1 – 11 1. This DQ is directly from the Back of the Book: The first sentence of the book tells you there is going to be a plane crash, and yet the author builds tension even before the crash. In chapter 1 Anna buys two bottles of water and tells T.J. to put one in his backpack, and as readers, we are probably aware that Mick will have a heart attack even before Anna does. Why do you think the author structured it this way? How did it enhance the read?
I think that it allowed for us to understand more about the crash without the author having to talk about it in detail. I think she is wanting to focus more on their time on the island.
2. Has Anna already made a decision about her relationship with her boyfriend John? Was her decision to spend the summer away from him just a slow exit? What is the significance of her telling T.J. that she probably should be missing John more?
I think that she has already realized that her relationship is over. They both want different things and its obvious that John will probably never commit. I think she is planning this as a slow exit. I am not sure why she told T.J. about not missing him as much as he should. Maybe she is just a really honest person.
3. Do you like the switching POV from chapter to chapter? Advantages? Disadvantages?
I do like it. I think that the advantage of switching from chapter to chapter is that we get to view more of each character's feelings and thoughts. I think this will be more important as the love story comes into play. I think however that jumping around can sometimes cause you to feel disconnected from the characters.
4. If you were T.J.’s parents, how would you handle his being behind on his school work? Give him a break, or try to treat him as close to normal and with an attitude of it’s time to catch up?
I think I would check with him first to see how he feels. When a person has gone through cancer it is traumatic and they more than ever need support from their family. Its not like he failed a grade so making him take classes when he doesn't want to is kind of like a punishment for him not doing anything wrong. However, I can also see their reasons for doing it the way they did.
5. Trying to survive in the middle of the ocean is bad enough, but I felt really sorry for Anna being sleep deprived on top of it! Were they pushing it to try and get to their destination? And what about T.J.’s recent remission? Will that come into play in this story?
I think Anna was pushing a bit, but I understand. When I flew to Japan, I just wanted to get there after being on the first plane for 14 hours. I am not sure about TJ's remission, she really could go several directions with this story.
6. How great are your survival skills? Could you make a fire without a match or lighter? Would you survive? Do you see anything Anna and T.J. should have done and didn’t? Would you have drunk the brackish water?
There is no way I would be able to make a fire. I have only been camping two or three times in my life and of course we had all of the luxuries that Anna and TJ didn't have. I think I could be pretty resourceful about finding food and water though, so I probably could make it for a little while. I can't think of anything that they should have done that they haven't done, but I wouldn't have drank the water. There are other things they could have gotten besides diarrhea.
7. What is their greatest obstacle? Should they or shouldn’t they discuss the plane and the possibility of rescue? Should they risk getting in the life raft? (BTW, I thought the message: “Custom packs available including radio beacons and emergency locators.” were just a cruel addition by the life raft people!)
I think they will just get discouraged if they keep talking about planes and rescue. I agree with Anna about getting in the life raft. Too many unknowns are out in the ocean. I think it would be way more difficult to survive there. As far as their greatest obstacle, I think it is just day to day life without going insane.
8. Do you blame Anna for stripping down to her bra and panties for a swim? Did you smile when T.J. later told Anna to just think of his as swim attire also? When the trapping of civilization are stripped from you, does that strip them from your psyche also? In what ways are the two of them hanging on to civilization? Letting go?I think that Anna did what she had to do. The more her clothes are submerged in the sea, the more they will deteriorate. I did think the swim attire conversation was very cute! I think that they are both just trying to survive and by not talking about being rescued and other things they are holding on to their sanity. I think they are holding on to civilization by still taking baths and worrying about their hygiene.
9. Would you have been able to handle and bury Mick, given the condition his body? Would you have sacrificed the blanket? There was no mention of a prayer or blessing said over him. Did you find that odd? Or did you pay it no mind?
I know that I would have a difficult time touching his body if it was in that poor shape. I am not sure if I would have been able to handle it. I like to think that I have a strong stomach but I am not sure. I would have sacrificed the blanket too. I did think it was a bit odd that they didn't say a prayer, but I also think they were probably exhausted and not in their right minds.
10. If you were in Anna and T.J’s situation and you had a suitcase full of stuff wash ashore on a deserted island, what would you want to have inside?
I would want to have a book! I would also want some clothes and maybe something to write on and write with. I would also want some photos or something of my family with me.
The pictures are really nice Lisa Kay.
@ Laura#2 – Yeah, I didn’t think she was letting him get his hopes up or anything. I think, like you said, she’s just really hones. Plus, he’s the only one she can talk to! LOL!
#3 – I do like it! It is pretty neat. Only a couple times, when I was interrupted and then went back to the book, I had to ask myself, “Now, who’s POV is this?”
#4 – Yes, I can definitely see both sides.
#5 – It always cracks me up when people go on the show Survivor and haven’t’ practiced making a fire from scratch. It’s hard! And it takes practice. The water! So true what you said. Ugh!
#7 – I’m torn here, but mostly I think the ocean is too unknown. It is big and deep and dangerous! You can get lost so fast and then you are less than a dot on the head of a pin.
#8 – Good point about her clothes disintegrating! I hadn’t thought of that.
#10 – Yeah, I’d go pretty nuts without a book! Great point about a photo! I like that.
Lisa Kay wrote: "@ Laura#2 – Yeah, I didn’t think she was letting him get his hopes up or anything. I think, like you said, she’s just really hones. Plus, he’s the only one she can talk to! LOL!
#3 – I do lik..."
@ Lisa Kay
#5- LOL at the Survivor comment. I have no doubts that I would be helpless at these sorts of things. Maybe I should go camping more often and try some of these survival skills out.
#7- it kind of reminds me of Life of Pi. The sharks alone would have me going looney tunes.
@ Laura#7 - I know! And with her head wound! Yikes. But, he didn't ditch her.
I'm loving it so far! I worked really late tonight but managed to finally get in the first 11.. I'm so curious about their relationship and how things are gonna play out, how the author is gonna spin that.. I'm also curious about how his being in remission plays in all this. I have a feeling there will be a certain struggle there. And the shack?? Who was there before? I can't wait til tomorrow to read more.
Lisa Kay’s (and one from the Back of the Book) Questions for Chapters 1 – 11 1. This DQ is directly from the Back of the Book: The first sentence of the book tells you there is going to be a plane crash, and yet the author builds tension even before the crash. In chapter 1 Anna buys two bottles of water and tells T.J. to put one in his backpack, and as readers, we are probably aware that Mick will have a heart attack even before Anna does. Why do you think the author structured it this way? How did it enhance the read?
The reader already knows the plane is going to go down - it’s in the description of the book. But when you open by talking about the plane crash, then lead up to the crash itself, the reader gets to look for little clues along the way related to it. Why did the plane crash? What will the characters have with them on the island? Things like that. It was an interesting way to write it, and I liked it.
2. Has Anna already made a decision about her relationship with her boyfriend John? Was her decision to spend the summer away from him just a slow exit? What is the significance of her telling T.J. that she probably should be missing John more?
Yes, I think it was a slow exit. If she’s spent seven years (is that right?) with him, I'm sure it would be hard to pull the plug, but giving herself time away might ease the blow. I think she and T.J. were having a moment and it just came out.
3. Do you like the switching POV from chapter to chapter? Advantages? Disadvantages?
I thought I would hate it at first - I usually hate switching POVs when they’re both written first person, unless they’re done really, really well. I’m finding that I like it a lot, though. T.J.’s thoughts are written very well, which was something I was worried about. I agree with Laura about the disadvantage of switching perspectives - most of the time, you feel disconnected to the characters. I don’t think we’ll have to worry about that here, though. It’s just T.J. and Anna, and I think we’ll have plenty of time to get to know them.
4. If you were T.J.’s parents, how would you handle his being behind on his school work? Give him a break, or try to treat him as close to normal and with an attitude of it’s time to catch up?
I would definitely talk to him first. Ask him how he’s feeling about everything. Perhaps they thought he would love the chance to spend the summer on a tropical island, even if it meant catching up on schoolwork. That’s understandable, but the fact that they never asked him about it is frustrating. He does need to get caught up, but I think he would have been more open to it if he could remain where he was, with his friends.
5. Trying to survive in the middle of the ocean is bad enough, but I felt really sorry for Anna being sleep deprived on top of it! Were they pushing it to try and get to their destination? And what about T.J.’s recent remission? Will that come into play in this story?
I can’t imagine flight after flight on no sleep. I definitely see why she wanted to just go ahead, get it over with, and fly the last few hours to T.J.’s house. What’s another couple of hours when you can sleep in a luxurious bed at the end of it? About T.J.’s remission - I’m really hoping this book doesn’t have a tragic end.
6. How great are your survival skills? Could you make a fire without a match or lighter? Would you survive? Do you see anything Anna and T.J. should have done and didn’t? Would you have drunk the brackish water?
Awful, awful survival skills. And I grew up in Africa, for goodness’ sake. I wish I could take some sort of “Survival Skills” class, where you learn how to use your environment to your advantage. After starting this book, I’m a bit freaked out about how I’d fare if I were ever stranded on an island. I think Anna and T.J. have done the best they could. I think I could only be persuaded to drink the water if things got truly, truly desperate and I really thought I might die.
7. What is their greatest obstacle? Should they or shouldn’t they discuss the plane and the possibility of rescue? Should they risk getting in the life raft? (BTW, I thought the message: “Custom packs available including radio beacons and emergency locators.” were just a cruel addition by the life raft people!)
Agree with Laura here on everything - discussing the plane and their rescue will probably bring them down emotionally, and might hold them back from doing what they need to do to survive, long-term. I wouldn’t get in the life raft, either. I’m absolutely terrified of the ocean and would rather take my chances on land. And their greatest obstacle (apart from dying) will be to keep from getting too pessimistic, depressed, or insane. They need to stay positive, talk to each other, develop a life there so they can stay alive. It doesn’t look like they are getting rescued anytime soon.
8. Do you blame Anna for stripping down to her bra and panties for a swim? Did you smile when T.J. later told Anna to just think of his as swim attire also? When the trapping of civilization are stripped from you, does that strip them from your psyche also? In what ways are the two of them hanging on to civilization? Letting go?
I don’t blame her. I hadn't thought about her clothes decomposing - I just figured she was burning up. A lot of T.J.’s thoughts make me smile...like when he forced himself to think of geometry after sleeping next to Anna. That made me laugh. I think they’re holding on now (by using toothpaste, shampoo, and other items from their luggage), but as time passes, they’ll start to let go and learn to adapt to their surroundings.
9. Would you have been able to handle and bury Mick, given the condition his body? Would you have sacrificed the blanket? There was no mention of a prayer or blessing said over him. Did you find that odd? Or did you pay it no mind?
With the gruesome descriptions of his body...I don’t know. I have a weak stomach when it comes to things like this. I’d like to think I would be brave and noble, and I would be able to handle it. I definitely would have used my blanket. I understand why they didn’t say anything, why they just wanted to get away.
10. If you were in Anna and T.J’s situation and you had a suitcase full of stuff wash ashore on a deserted island, what would you want to have inside?
A book I wouldn’t get tired of reading over and over, plenty of clothes. I like Laura’s idea of writing materials, too. And some other practical, life-saving things, like a first-aid kit, something to catch water in, a knife, etc. I don’t know that I would pack all that to begin with, but it would be nice to find it wash ashore. :)
@ Mary#1 – Very true. I know when Anna handed T.J. that water bottle and he put it in his backpack for later I wondered if he would ever get ahold of it again. If so, when?
#3 – I certainly got into the rhythm of it.
#4 – Yes, a little inquiry would have gone a long way, I think. However, most teenagers don’t want to leave their friends to go on a family “vacation.”
#5 – Eep! I hope so, too!
#6 – I read a non-fiction book once that had a guy in it that taught survival skills and he said that there was a belt – a normal looking dress belt - you could buy that had everything in that help you survive. I don’t remember everything, but I do remember the fish hooks and line.
#7 – Yes, I agree. I like that, “they need to develop a life there.”
#8 – Yes, I’m liking his thoughts, too.
I guess I could use this for the Tee-Shirt Challenge. ☺
@Mary#7-LOL, at wanting to brush up on survival skills. I felt the same way. It really had me thinking about it for a good hour or so.
#8- I like the thoughts of T.J. too, they are so right on with how a teenage boy would think.
Lisa Kay wrote: "I guess I could use this for the Tee-Shirt Challenge. ☺"
HA! yeah you could now that you have read this book.
Lisa Kay’s Questions for Chapter 12 – 22 11. How cool were the dolphins? Have you ever swum with any?
12. Would you keep a mental calendar?
13. What did you think of the RFO Speedwagon t-shirt hunt? Typical teenager guy or perv? Comments on how Anna handled the situation? Book Quote: Wait, how many have there been? LOL! Sometimes Anna is a little naïve! How would you have handled the hard-on situation? Ignored it? Talked about it? And later, what did you think of the “dream scene”? T.J.’s age at the time?
14. Would you go in the cave? Do you think we’ll ever find out who Bones is? Will you be upset if the author doesn’t follow-up on this?
15. Sorry, but I laughed at the chicken chase. Did you find it funny? Or did you find the farting scene funnier? Or something else?
16. Anna has never taken on the role of teacher in this book. Are you surprised she doesn’t try to give him lessons or lectures in something? History? English? Would their relationship be a bit more “icky” to you if she had taken on this role? Does her not doing so make them more equals?
17. Oh! The plane scene was heart-wrenching. Could you see how they would be caught unprepared? Or did you think they were a couple of dummies? Would you have been worried over T.J.’s expression of anger? Anna doesn’t berate him for breaking his hand. Comments. (Loved the use of the thong! LOL!)
18. What did you think of T.J. building a house? Is it significant/symbolic?
19. What did you think of T.J.’s story about his first time with Emma? About the nurses involvement? What about later, when he told her about him infertility and the sperm bank? Comments.
20. I wasn’t expecting them to stay on the island for so long! T.J. is growing up right before our eyes. Do you see him as a man yet? If so, at what point did he become one?
21. It is animal and human nature to groom. Usually we go to the hairdresser or barber for a shave and/or a haircut; the dentist for teeth cleaning; the manicurist; other professionals; etc. I’m a nurse and there were plenty of times the patient stayed clamed up on their emotions; but, when I started bathing them, they started talking. (Hair dressers notice the same thing, that’s why they know the town gossip.) Is all the mutual grooming creating a stronger bond between Anna and T.J.? Is it inevitable?
22. Fifty-two! LOL! I knew it was a dream, but I still laugh. Nevertheless, there was a deep sense of pathos there. How long do you think you would last on a deserted island? Would it make a difference if you were with someone? Or who you were with?
23. Which are worse bats, jellyfish, dysentery, or a broken bone? Eep! The mangy old bat freaked me out. And it bit her! Were you worried about rabies? Yikes! Jellyfish. I really was expecting T.J. to pee on Anna’s jellyfish stings. Doesn’t everyone know to do that? Are you capable and fast-acting in an emergency?
Lisa Kay’s Questions for Chapter 12 – 22 11. How cool were the dolphins? Have you ever swum with any?
I love dolphins! I would love to swim with them, if the water were shallow enough. I hate swimming out deep into the ocean.
12. Would you keep a mental calendar?
I would have to keep some sort of calendar or I would go nuts. I think it would be really important to me to know what day it was of what year. If I didn’t have a way to write it down, I would probably use a tree and make notches. There’s no way I could keep it all in my head - I have the memory of a goldfish.
13. What did you think of the RFO Speedwagon t-shirt hunt? Typical teenager guy or perv? Comments on how Anna handled the situation? Book Quote: Wait, how many have there been? LOL! Sometimes Anna is a little naïve! How would you have handled the hard-on situation? Ignored it? Talked about it? And later, what did you think of the “dream scene”? T.J.’s age at the time?
Hah, this made me laugh. Typical teenage guy here. I think Anna handled it well. It would have made things really awkward if she had gotten angry or scolded him. As for the bathing scene - the only thing that seems off about Anna’s comment to me is that they had already been on the island for quite a while before this, I think. Sleeping in the same bed, waking up next to each other, etc. Seems unlikely to me that she wouldn’t have noticed it before. Maybe he was extra good at hiding it, hehe. I probably would have ignored it out of embarrassment. And the dream scene...I think she’s subconsciously becoming more attracted to him as time goes by. I can’t remember exactly how old he was. Eighteen? Time’s been passing really quickly, and I’m finding it hard to keep up with where we are in the timeline.
14. Would you go in the cave? Do you think we’ll ever find out who Bones is? Will you be upset if the author doesn’t follow-up on this?
I don’t think I’d be upset, no. Anna and T.J. are far more interesting by themselves than the mystery of who Bones is. But it might be nice to find out, and I wonder if the author is building a mystery here. I probably would avoid the cave because of snakes and other nasties.
15. Sorry, but I laughed of the chicken chase. Did you find it funny? Or did you find the farting scene funnier? Or something else?
That was pretty funny, I agree. The farting scene was, too. Another teenage guy scene (or just guy scene, really). I find T.J. a funny character in general, which surprises me. I didn’t find him very funny at the beginning.
16. Anna has never taken on the role of teacher in this book. Are you surprised she doesn’t try to give him lessons or lectures in something? History? English? Would their relationship be a bit more “icky” to you if she had taken on this role? Does her not doing so make them more equals?
I’m not surprised at all. They’re castaways on an island in the middle of nowhere! Who cares about school? Surviving is all that matters. I think she asked him about his future and taking the GED because, deep down, she’s hoping they’ll still get rescued someday. I think their relationship would probably feel strange if she decided suddenly to start tutoring him. It works now because she treats him like an equal, like an adult, not as a child, or a student.
17. Oh! The plane scene was heart-wrenching. Could you see how they would be caught unprepared? Or did you think they were a couple of dummies? Would you have been worried over T.J.’s expression of anger? Anna doesn’t berate him for breaking his hand. Comments. (Loved the use of the thong! LOL!)
They can’t be sitting on the beach with a roaring fire non-stop. It’s sad, but I see what Anna means when she says that the plane would literally have to land in the lagoon for them to be rescued. Heartbreaking, I agree. I feel for T.J. and I understand his need to express his anger. I understand also why Anna said what she did. That said, he’s lucky that it didn’t get infected or it wasn’t hurt worse. I think it’s dangerous to use up their first-aid supplies so quickly and I’m surprised that they still have them at all after so long. Perhaps the incidents we’ve read about are the only accidents that have happened.
18. What did you think of T.J. building a house? Is it significant/symbolic?
Definitely symbolic of Anna and T.J.’s deciding to give up on being rescued and instead choosing to make a home on the island. T.J. seems like an incredibly resourceful guy. I’m hoping there won’t be any sort of cyclone or massive storm, though. Even though they hate the woods, I feel like they would offer more protection.
19. What did you think of T.J.’s story about his first time with Emma? About the nurses involvement? What about later, when he told her about him infertility and the sperm bank? Comments.
It was incredibly sad. What a story. The sperm bank story was pretty funny, in contrast. I imagine the fact that he can’t have children might come up later, since Anna wants a baby so badly.
20. I wasn’t expecting them to stay on the island for so long! T.J. is growing up right before our eyes. Do you see him as a man yet? If so, at what point did he become one?
I still think he has many boyish qualities, but he’s also very mature for his age. I know from experience that illness forces you to grow up extremely quickly (sometimes too quickly). I don’t quite see him as a man man, but at the rate he’s growing, I’m sure that’ll change soon.
21. It is animal and human nature to groom. Usually we go to the hairdresser or barber for a shave and/or a haircut; the dentist for teeth cleaning; the manicurist; other professionals; etc. I’m a nurse and there were plenty of times the patient stayed clamed up on their emotions; but, when I started bathing them, they started talking. (Hair dressers notice the same thing, that’s why they know the town gossip.) Is all the mutual grooming creating a stronger bond between Anna and T.J.? Is it inevitable?
I can definitely see that. It seems like every time she shaves him or bathes him, they have some sort of moment between them. I’ve enjoyed those scenes, personally.
22. Fifty-two! LOL! I knew it was a dream, but I still laugh. Nevertheless, there was a deep sense of pathos there. How long do you think you would last on a deserted island? Would it make a difference if you were with someone? Or who you were with?
Well, I’ve already mentioned my lack of survival skills. But I think I would last a lot longer if I had someone with me. We would figure things out together, talk to each other, and keep each other from going crazy. I would want to be stuck with someone like Anna or T.J. - someone resourceful and strong, someone who refuses to give up, even after several planes have flown over the island and left without rescuing them. I would need someone like that to keep me from getting depressed, I think.
23. Which are worse bats, jellyfish, dysentery, or a broken bone? Eep! The mangy old bat freaked me out. And it bit her! Were you worried about rabies? Yikes! Jellyfish. I really was expecting T.J. to pee on Anna’s jellyfish stings. Doesn’t everyone know to do that? Are you capable and fast-acting in an emergency?
Well, they’re all pretty awful. Dysentery sounds gross and extremely painful. Bats would probably scare me more than jellyfish, though, because they’re unknown. I’ve been stung by a jellyfish before, but I’ve never encountered a bat, so the diseases it might carry would terrify me. I wasn’t worried about rabies, as I knew she wouldn’t die, but I was worried about some other disease the bat might be carrying (not sure what that might be - I don’t know anything about bats). And the only reason I know about peeing on a jellyfish sting is because of an episode of Friends, hehe.
isa Kay’s Questions for Chapter 12 – 22 11. How cool were the dolphins? Have you ever swum with any?
I have never had the chance to swim with dolphins. I have, however, seen them in Galveston playing in the water. I would love to swim with them one day.
12. Would you keep a mental calendar?
I think it would be one of those things where I would start but I am not sure if I would keep up with it. It might make me so depressed that I wouldn't be able to even function anymore, especially if I was there as long as they have been.
13. What did you think of the REO Speedwagon t-shirt hunt? Typical teenager guy or perv? Comments on how Anna handled the situation? Book Quote: Wait, how many have there been? LOL! Sometimes Anna is a little naïve! How would you have handled the hard-on situation? Ignored it? Talked about it? And later, what did you think of the “dream scene”? T.J.’s age at the time?
I think it is typical teenage guy behavior. I think Anna handled it really well. I don't know what I would do in the same situation. I agree with Mary though, if she had yelled at him or scolded him it wouldn't have gone over so well. I think her dream is just showing how badly she misses and needs physical love and you can't fault her for it. He is of legal age now, isn't he?
14. Would you go in the cave? Do you think we’ll ever find out who Bones is? Will you be upset if the author doesn’t follow-up on this?
I would definitely not go into the cave. I agree about the tight spaces and especially when you don't have a weapon. There is no telling what could happen. I don't think we will ever find out who Bones is, but I loved that Anna named him. It won't bother me at all if the author chooses not to tell us, I think the story is just so good and I am really enjoying it.
15. Sorry, but I laughed of the chicken chase. Did you find it funny? Or did you find the farting scene funnier? Or something else?
I thought the chicken chase was hilarious. There is no way I would have been able to catch a chicken. I just thought the farting scene was a prelude of whats to come with their romance.
16. Anna has never taken on the role of teacher in this book. Are you surprised she doesn’t try to give him lessons or lectures in something? History? English? Would their relationship be a bit more “icky” to you if she had taken on this role? Does her not doing so make them more equals?
I think they have had more to think about than her giving him lessons. I am sure in the beginning they both thought that they were going to be saved quickly, so they didn't even think about it. Of course, then they were too worried about survival and she didn't have any materials to work with. I think it would have been a bit more off putting if she had tried to do something like that. I am glad that she didn't.
17. Oh! The plane scene was heart-wrenching. Could you see how they would be caught unprepared? Or did you think they were a couple of dummies? Would you have been worried over T.J.’s expression of anger? Anna doesn’t berate him for breaking his hand. Comments. (Loved the use of the thong! LOL!)
I could see where they would be caught unaware. They have been waiting for two years now and nothing has happened. I would have given up long ago. I could understand his expression of anger and he is still quite young. He will grow out of a lot of that more than likelly. I think it is good that she didn't berate him as that probably would have just made him angry. The use of the thong was cute.
18. What did you think of T.J. building a house? Is it significant/symbolic?
I didn't think of it being symbolic until now. I think it could be, then again it could just be because he was bored and because he was tired of living in the life raft. Maybe the house on the edge of a beach will be more noticeable to planes also.
19. What did you think of T.J.’s story about his first time with Emma? About the nurses involvement? What about later, when he told her about him infertility and the sperm bank? Comments.
I thought it was a very sweet story about what you will do for people when they are hurting or dying. It was very touching and I thought that the nurses doing that for them showed how sympathetic and compassionate they were. Others probably wouldn't feel the same way. I thought it was interesting about the sperm bank. Do they really do that for cancer patients who are males and are too young to have children?
20. I wasn’t expecting them to stay on the island for so long! T.J. is growing up right before our eyes. Do you see him as a man yet? If so, at what point did he become one?
I don't really see him as a man but he has definitely had to grow up quickly and will probably be mature beyond his years.
21. It is animal and human nature to groom. Usually we go to the hairdresser or barber for a shave and/or a haircut; the dentist for teeth cleaning; the manicurist; other professionals; etc. I’m a nurse and there were plenty of times the patient stayed clamed up on their emotions; but, when I started bathing them, they started talking. (Hair dressers notice the same thing, that’s why they know the town gossip.) Is all the mutual grooming creating a stronger bond between Anna and T.J.? Is it inevitable?
I think so, they are both so aware of each others body because they are helping each other with the grooming. I think it is naturally going to occur. I think though that all of the communication between the two of them is also key to why they are bonded together and also why they are attracted to each other.
22. Fifty-two! LOL! I knew it was a dream, but I still laugh. Nevertheless, there was a deep sense of pathos there. How long do you think you would last on a deserted island? Would it make a difference if you were with someone? Or who you were with?
I think I could make it for a while but I am not sure that I would be as sane as they are. I mean they seem pretty calm and collected. I think having someone would help. I don't think it would matter unless it was someone that I absolutely dispised. I would hope that it would be someone that I either didn't know and could come to know or someone that I loved, like a family member.
23. Which are worse bats, jellyfish, dysentery, or a broken bone? Eep! The mangy old bat freaked me out. And it bit her! Were you worried about rabies? Yikes! Jellyfish. I really was expecting T.J. to pee on Anna’s jellyfish stings. Doesn’t everyone know to do that? Are you capable and fast-acting in an emergency?
I didn't know about peeing on a jellyfish sting. I have only heard that for athlete's foot. I was really freaked out by the bat. The first thing that went through my head was the Old Yeller theme song. I think that would be the worst. I think that TJ handled that situation beautifully with the Jellyfish. I know that I can stay pretty calm as I helped my mom when we were in our car accident last year. It wasn't that bad though. Just a few broken bones and a totalled car.
@Mary#12-LOL at the memory of a goldfish. Mine is pretty bad too.
#21- I enjoyed those scenes too. Actually, I am really enjoying the book as a whole and I am not surprised that it got such great reviews.
Hey guys did you know this was being made into a movie!
Laura wrote: "Hey guys did you know this was being made into a movie!"Yup. Lisa posted it in message #11. I think what may happen is they might make the teacher a little younger and the boy a little older to avoid controversy.
@ Laura19 - Yes, these nurses were incredibly compassionate, allowing them some privacy and leaving them alone like that. I'm sure, with her being in the hospital for so long, that she and the nurses developed an attachment of sorts, too, so it must have been really hard for them to watch her suffer.
21 - I'm really enjoying this, too! I'm finding it so hard not to just finish the book in one sitting. It's torture having to stop myself from moving forward. I like your point on this question, by the way, about how Anna and T.J.'s communication is key to their attraction.
I think it's exciting that it's being turned into a movie! I wonder how well it'll work as a film, though.
Sashana wrote: "Laura wrote: "Hey guys did you know this was being made into a movie!"Yup. Lisa posted it in message #11. I think what may happen is they might make the teacher a little younger and the boy a lit..."
LOL, I so missed that somehow Sashana.
@ Mary#11 – I swam with them in Hawaii, but I really didn’t get up close to them. I totally freaked when I saw their fins, as I had just come off the jet sky and couldn’t get back on. I was scrambling like mad b/c I thought they were sharks. They are pretty neat, but I didn’t get to touch one, which is what I wanted.
#12 – I’d keep one, too, and observe the holidays as much as possible.
#13 – Yes, typical guy here. I thought Anna handled it perfectly. Good point about the hard-on, but maybe T.J. is really good at hiding it, since he is so embarrassed by it. Yes, he had just turned eighteen a couple of months prior to her dream.
#14 – I would probably go in the cave if I had a torch.
#15 – Very true! What is it with guys and farting? T.J. is pretty funny.
#16 – Yeah, they never really took that role (tutor/student). So, while I thought about it, and wondered about it, I could see that not happening.
#17 – I actually liked this scene. I felt it was totally conceivable that they would NOT be ready after so long and tot be devastated after the plane. I loved what Anna told T.J. after he broke his hand. Yes, scary that their supplies are dwindling.
#18 – I think T.J. really started showing signs of maturity when he started building the house. They’ve come on gradually, but he got into that work mode that men do when they are trying to accomplish a goal.
#19 – I’m thinking you’re right!
#20 – Yes, he is mature for his age.
#21 – ☺ Me, too!
#22 – Yes, I think sanity would be a big issue. Yes, John Wayne would be a good candidate for my island companion. Do you remember that answer from the old Newlyweds game? It pits newly married couples against each other in a series of revealing question rounds to determine how well the spouses know (or don't know) each other {Wiki}. Anyway, when asked, “Who would you want on a deserted island with you?” the wife answered John Wayne. Her husband was shocked! He had put down Robert Redford and asked her why JW. She told him all his attributes and her husband said, “Yes, you’re right. I’d want John Wayne, too.” LOL!
#23 – Yeah, I had a hard time with this answer. The bat would freak me out, but the jellyfish would probably have killed me.
@ Laura#13 – Yes, missing physical love would be really, really hard. I forgot what the number of touches are required by the human psyche to keep sane. Ten a day? Yes, he was of legal age then.
#14 – I’m enjoying the story, too!
#16 – I wondered why she didn’t use it as a barrier to keep her distance from him; since she is aware he was a hormonal boy. However, that is not her character. She is warm, caring, friendly, and open.
#17 – Yes, I totally understood their being caught unawares. Yes, loved that the thong made T.J. smile.
#19 – Yes, they do bank their sperm. I think there was something in the news about a couple that lost their son and wanted to use his sperm to make a grandchild. They even offer that to men who have a sex change operation!
#21 – Ditto!
#22 – Man-oh-man! I hate to be on the island with someone I despised. That would be rough.
#23 – Oh, I hope there aren’t any residual effects from the accident, Laura! LOL over the theme song in the background of your head.
#11- No but I'd like to!#12- I would try my best, but I think it would be tough to do with the main goal being survival.
#13- I agree that it's typical. But I just have to say, while reading the panty sniffing part, I was DYING! So funny!
#14- I would have definitely gone in the cave, my curiosity would've forced me. And I agree that we will probably never find out about Bones but it's awesome that she named him.
#15- I was cracking up envisioning the chicken chase! But I still think the panty sniffing wins for me.
#16- I think that it was more realistic that she didn't take on the teacher role. I mean, seriously, math while fighting for survival seems a little far fetched.
#17- agree completely with Laura! Being caught unawares definitely didn't make them look like dummies
#18- I think it may have been symbolic of them finally accepting that noone may ever come back. No more temporary lean-to.. :(
#19- That was such a sweet, intimate moment. Anna is taking a little more time to open up though..
#20- I don't see him as a man yet, either. Although the fact that he's 18 makes me feel more comfortable. I would've had a hard time reading a romance between a 30 year old and 16 year old.
#21- Also agree that the grooming is strengthening their bond and bringing them closer emotionally.
#22- I wouldn't last a day..
#23- Pretty sure the bat incident creeped me out the most! How she was describing all the scabs and stuff.. ICK! I shivered while reading about it..
@ #13 – Now you have me laughing all over again. LOL!
#14 – Oh, you are brave!
#15 – Still chuckling.
#18 – I know!
#19 – Yes, I think Anna is a pretty open person at the beginning of this book, so it is surprising to me that she opens up even more. Neat.
#20 – Me, too. I was leary of reading this one but had to put faith in some GRs friends who said all would be alright in that area.
#22 – LMBO!
#23 – Yes! Gross.
I've got workmen coming in the morning and here I am on GRs at 1:25 a.m. **sigh**
@ Lisa Kay#22 - John Wayne would be a great survival companion, you're right! That story was hilarious.
@ Tasheana and Lisa Kay
#20 - Same with me. A lot of people said not to "freak out" about the age difference, that it would be okay, but at the beginning, I still wondered... And when the author described him with braces, I kept thinking, "What have I gotten myself into?"
This is my first time doing discussion questions, so bear with me. :-) Mary’s Questions for Chapters 23 - 38
24. T.J. makes this comment after brushing Anna’s hair: “If we were in Chicago, I wouldn’t stand a chance with her. But I was starting to wonder if, here on the island, I might.” If Anna and T.J. had arrived safely to the summer house in the Maldives, or if Anna had tutored T.J. in Chicago, would there have been any flirtation between them, or perhaps something more? Or could their relationship only have existed because of the island? Do you believe in soul mates or fate?
25. I must say, the chapter devoted to the shark terrified me (I am incredibly afraid of the ocean and all of its creatures that can bite me). Would you have fished in the lagoon, knowing a shark was out there? Would you have been brave enough to attempt to kill it? What did you think of the dolphins saving the day?
26. After the shark feast, and after Anna and T.J. eat breadfruit together, do you think the timing was right for them? Do you see T.J. as a man yet?
27. Anna thinks that T.J. won’t want to be tied down to anyone, should they get rescued. She also seems to be worried that she might hurt him someday (“I wanted to tell him I’d never do anything to hurt him again. But I was afraid it was a promise I might not be able to keep.”) What do you think Anna means by this? And what do you think life will be like for them when they get back to civilization?
28. I found T.J.’s “gifts” on Anna’s birthday incredibly sweet. What have been your favorite moments between Anna and T.J. so far?
29. Time moves so quickly on the island. Do you like this about the book? Or would you prefer a slower speed?
30. When you read about T.J.’s sickness, were you concerned his cancer was back? How about when Anna started throwing up - did you think she was pregnant at first?
31. How relieved were you at the mention of “helicopter"? Are you surprised their rescue has come so early in the novel? How do you think everyone will react to finding out Anna and T.J. are alive? ...And are together?
#24- I think that circumstances can change people. And that's what we're witnessing here with Anna and T.J. If everything would've happened as planned, then no, I don't think they would've fallen in love. And I'm not sure if I believe in soul mates or fate.. Hmm.. Maybe one day :)#25- I had the biggest goofiest grin on my face when the dolphins saved the day! That was just perfect. And I'm not sure that I would have been brave enough to hit the water after seeing the sharks. And if I did, I would have constant paranoia!
#26- I think I do actually. I didn't realize the book would take place over such a long period of time, so I was pretty close minded about their romance until now. But I can honestly say that I don't cringe and find it very sweet.
#27- I have not a clue. I'm very very curious to see how their family reacts, etc.
#28- Okay I'll never forget the panty sniffing. I know I've mentioned it a milliion times but I can't remember the last time I laughed that hard reading! Also, the pet "chicken" showing up at the best and worst of times. Hilarious! Btw, I was absolutely CRUSHED to hear of chicken's passing.. :(
#29- I do like that it moves quickly. I think a lot of their days are spent doing the same thing, so this way it never drags on.
#30- I was so concerned about T.J. but I was like hmm.. no way he can be deathly ill this early on, so I was optimistic about that. And I will say my wheels were spinning about the pregnancy situation, but the author didn't keep me in suspense for too long.
#31- I was so surprised that it happened this soon! Ahhh I have no idea what's awaiting them. It's killing me not to read more! We stopped at such a dramatic point, I'm biting my nails, my mind's going nuts. Oh the torture....!
#25 - I most definitely wouldn't have! I would have attempted to find a way to survive without fish, I think, but there's no way I could have done what T.J. and Anna attempted. The dolphins put a smile on my face, too. :-)#26 - I agree. It's been very gradual and very, very sweet.
#28 - Poor Chicken! So sad. :(
#29 - Good point. It seems like the book is giving us the highlights of their life on the island.
#31 - I know! I agree, it's torture!
Would anyone be willing to do tomorrow's questions for me? I'm going to have a much busier day than expected tomorrow (lots and lots of packing for a move) and I'm doing DQs for Partials as well. I can manage it, though, if no one would like to do it. Just let me know!
Lisa Kay’s Answers to Mary’s Questions for Chapters 23 - 3824. T.J. makes this comment after brushing Anna’s hair: “If we were in Chicago, I wouldn’t stand a chance with her. But I was starting to wonder if, here on the island, I might.” If Anna and T.J. had arrived safely to the summer house in the Maldives, or if Anna had tutored T.J. in Chicago, would there have been any flirtation between them, or perhaps something more? Or could their relationship only have existed because of the island? Do you believe in soul mates or fate?
I don’t think they would have gotten together in Chicago. As open as Anna is, she wouldn’t have been that open. Too much social pressure. She also would have been his tutor, and I don't think she would have crossed that line, either. Soul mates and fate!! Hmmm… Yes, I believe in them. Well… maybe 90% sure of them. Maybe that is why some people don’t connect with someone that deeply while on earth; they are at different ages – which are not condoned by our cultures!
25. I must say, the chapter devoted to the shark terrified me (I am incredibly afraid of the ocean and all of its creatures that can bite me). Would you have fished in the lagoon, knowing a shark was out there? Would you have been brave enough to attempt to kill it? What did you think of the dolphins saving the day?
Yes, I’ve been in the water with a shark that was about as long as I am tall and it absolutely terrified me! Very scary. Mentally, I immediately put up the 10 foot thick glass wall between us that is like the one at Monterey Bay Aquarium. LOL! Talk about denial! Talk about a surge of adrenal! Love the dolphins. They really have been known to help out in a shark attack. And sharks really do come that close to shore! Yikes! Nope. I wouldn't have gone in the water to fish and I would have been just like Anna, bugging T.J. not to do it, either!
26. After the shark feast, and after Anna and T.J. eat breadfruit together, do you think the timing was right for them? Do you see T.J. as a man yet?
Yes, I thought it was perfect.
27. Anna thinks that T.J. won’t want to be tied down to anyone, should they get rescued. She also seems to be worried that she might hurt him someday (“I wanted to tell him I’d never do anything to hurt him again. But I was afraid it was a promise I might not be able to keep.”) What do you think Anna means by this? And what do you think life will be like for them when they get back to civilization?
I think she’s thinking about societal pressures here. She is also thinking of his young age and she doesn’t want to rob him of his youth.
28. I found T.J.’s “gifts” on Anna’s birthday incredibly sweet. What have been your favorite moments between Anna and T.J. so far?
Oh. Tough question, Mary! There are so many good ones. I kind of liked when he told her there had been other hard-ons. LOL! It showed he was getting more comfortable with her and yet he could laugh at the situation, too.
29. Time moves so quickly on the island. Do you like this about the book? Or would you prefer a slower speed?
Great question. I’ve been pondering this one over and over in my mind before you even asked it. Sometimes I wish more was covered, but other times I’m glad the author is going at this pace because I want to find out what happens. LOL! Can’t make up my mind.
30. When you read about T.J.’s sickness, were you concerned his cancer was back? How about when Anna started throwing up - did you think she was pregnant at first?
Yes. I was totally convinced his cancer was back. Phew. I was glad she wasn’t pregnant, as I would have been rolling my eyes. She’s too malnourished and he’s all but sterile. It was good as written, because it was something they needed to think about.
31. How relieved were you at the mention of “helicopter"? Are you surprised their rescue has come so early in the novel? How do you think everyone will react to finding out Anna and T.J. are alive? ...And are together?
So glad to read that sound of those blades! For both of them. I would have been freaking, if I was Anna.
Wonderful questions, Mary! Thanks!
Mary wrote: "Would anyone be willing to do tomorrow's questions for me? I'm going to have a much busier day than expected tomorrow (lots and lots of packing for a move) and I'm doing DQs for Partials as well. I..."I have workmen coming again tomorrow, Mary. They pretty much killed me today. LOL! I'm not used to working that hard and standing on my feet that long. However, if you - or someone else - doesn't get to them, I'll try and put something together tomorrow night. Loved your questions, BTW.
Laura wrote: "Lisa Kay wrote: "I guess I could use this for the Tee-Shirt Challenge. ☺"HA! yeah you could now that you have read this book."
I just might, Laura!
@ #25 – Yes, loved the dolphins! Such wonderful mammals.
#26 – I was very surprised, too, over the length of time they are on the island.
#27 – Really. Their families are going to freak.
#28 - **sniffle** Poor Chicken!
#29 – Ah! Good point.
#30 – Yes, very glad the author didn’t drag that out.
#31 – We did pick quite a tortuous spot to stop!
Mary wrote: "#20 - Same with me. A lot of people said not to "freak out" about the age difference, that it would be okay, but at the beginning, I still wondered... And when the author described him with braces, I kept thinking, "What have I gotten myself into?"Response to Post #89.
Yes, when people started commenting when I first posted this "buddy read," I was having the same thoughts. I almost backed out. So glad I didn't!
K catching up today. I will post the answers to yesterday's reading shortly.
Lisa Kay wrote: "I have workmen coming again tomorrow, Mary. They pretty much killed me today. LOL! I'm not used to working that hard and standing on my feet that long. However, if you - or someone else - doesn't get to them, I'll try and put something together tomorrow night. Loved your questions, BTW."Don't worry about it, Lisa Kay! You're probably busier than I am. I can come up with a few questions. :-)
