Tagged from Tamara of Books by TJBaff
The rules for the tag are simple.
Link to the person who has tagged you.
Write down six things that make you happy.
Post the rules, tag six others and let them know you did it.
Then tell the person when your entry is complete.
Six Things That Make Me Happy...
1. The laughter of young children
2. My family
3. Music, especially that really old country and southern gospel
4. Beautiful Wool and Books
5. The Fall and smell of leaves on the ground
6. Special times with Close Friends
I could go on and on and on, but it says only six!
I tag beckerbuns ( Becky) - live journal
jessiebud ( shelley)- live journal
the joys of knitting (joy) - blogspot
insert clever saying here (jenny) live journal
eclectic closet (Janelle) - blogspot
morsiereads (Karen) - blogspot
Friday, February 20, 2009
Thursday, January 22, 2009
The Book Thief
The Book Thief
Markus Zusak
Copyright 2005
550 pages
Synopsis
It’s just a small story really, about among other things: a girl, some words, an accordionist, some fanatical Germans, a Jewish fist-fighter, and quite a lot of thievery. . . .Set during World War II in Germany, Markus Zusak’s groundbreaking new novel is the story of Liesel Meminger, a foster girl living outside of Munich. Liesel scratches out a meager existence for herself by stealing when she encounters something she can’t resist–books. With the help of her accordion-playing foster father, she learns to read and shares her stolen books with her neighbors during bombing raids as well as with the Jewish man hidden in her basement before he is marched to Dachau.
This is an unforgettable story about the ability of books to feed the soul.
My Thoughts
To begin with this is classed as a Young Adult novel. I don't usually enjoy Young Adult reads and after reading this I would have to disagree about its classification (only my opinion) and suggest that I would not recommend it for a twelve year old even though it states for readers from 12 years old and up.
Nonetheless, this was a totally awesome read and will definitley be a hard book to top. Even with the year being new and many hours left to lose myself in books yet discovered, I can't help but think that I have already read one of my top reads for 2009 if not the best.
The narrator of the story is "Death" (yet not a scary or cruel character as we often think death is) makes an early appearance when the book thief's little brother dies on a train that a bunch of people marked as communists have been herded onto. Liesel (the book thief) commits her first theft at her brothers grave site. It does not matter that she can not read or that she has no idea why she does this act. She conceals her treasure even as she is dropped at her new fostor home on Himmel St. Liesel has an immediate connection with her fostor dad, a kind man that plays the accordian, paints houses and teaches Liesel to read but it much slower to warm up to her fostor mom who reacts with harsh words and more restrained emotions. It was nice to see a character placed in a kind fostor home rather then the usual horrid conditions we read about.
Through the years "Death" collects many souls and gives us his point of view on society and what people will do to help others and what some will directly or indirectly do against their fellow man. Death does not revel in his position, but carries out his duties often with a heavy heart.
I felt this was not so much a story of the Holocaust but a tale about society and the power and use /misuse of words. Leisel uses her knowledge of language to improve herself and shares her gift of reading with others. In contrast Hitler uses his power of speech to to brain wash much of a nation.
The human spirit is strong throughout this story. "Death" is not to be feared so much as the interaction between human kind.
Though not necessarily a happy read, I found myself laughing and aching with the characters as I grew to love them. What more could an author want but to know that he moved the emotions of his readers - truly a must read.
PS - I don't feel the synopsis at the beginning of the post showed the depth of this novel.
4.5 stars out of 5.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
More on "Coventry"
I'm still thinking about this story and now realize that I didn't post about a very special part of the book for me.
pg 110 - 111 "She wants to know if the world in which she lives, this place she is using herself up everyday, will remember anything of her.Will the buildings that she has carefully studied, walked through, touched-will they recall her footsteps, the weight of her body on the steps, the smooth flat of her hand on the banister? Will the cobblestones hold her footfall? Will the river of rain remember the shape of her body?"
My sister lives in a house that is over 125 years old. The house has its original wood plank flooring, huge thick banisters, tall floor to ceiling pocket doors that separate rooms, and I cant help but find myself always wondering about the people, the families that have come before her in this house. About how they must have lived and cared for their property. Their kids running up and down the stairs, hands gripping and sliding along the beautiful banisters. These are thoughts that occupy my mind.
Also, I have a favorite place that my family has vacationed at since at least 1940. My granddad (I never knew him) was also chief of police in this town and I have been told stories of how he upheld the law in those days. More importantly, especially now that my dad is gone, when there I found myself thinking about how I was sitting on the rocks that my family have climbed and played on for many decades, the sand that we all ran through and played in, the cottages that held all our memories, both happy and sad. It gives me a warm feeling to know that I am physically touching a part of the past that holds imprints of my loved ones both here and gone.
Maybe a sentimental old fool (lol) but I love stuff like this.
pg 110 - 111 "She wants to know if the world in which she lives, this place she is using herself up everyday, will remember anything of her.Will the buildings that she has carefully studied, walked through, touched-will they recall her footsteps, the weight of her body on the steps, the smooth flat of her hand on the banister? Will the cobblestones hold her footfall? Will the river of rain remember the shape of her body?"
My sister lives in a house that is over 125 years old. The house has its original wood plank flooring, huge thick banisters, tall floor to ceiling pocket doors that separate rooms, and I cant help but find myself always wondering about the people, the families that have come before her in this house. About how they must have lived and cared for their property. Their kids running up and down the stairs, hands gripping and sliding along the beautiful banisters. These are thoughts that occupy my mind.
Also, I have a favorite place that my family has vacationed at since at least 1940. My granddad (I never knew him) was also chief of police in this town and I have been told stories of how he upheld the law in those days. More importantly, especially now that my dad is gone, when there I found myself thinking about how I was sitting on the rocks that my family have climbed and played on for many decades, the sand that we all ran through and played in, the cottages that held all our memories, both happy and sad. It gives me a warm feeling to know that I am physically touching a part of the past that holds imprints of my loved ones both here and gone.
Maybe a sentimental old fool (lol) but I love stuff like this.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
My Favorite Holiday Knit of 2008
I did very little knitting (as presents) this past holiday season. Last year I bit off way more then I could chew(knit)!! I had a couple requests for hats during the holiday so now Im under the gun to complete them in the next three days. Guess I should be casting on instead of blogging but I really wanted to post the pictures of my sis in the "Marina" vest I made her for Christmas. I think it turned out great and the colours suit her perfectly (IMHO). So without further ado I give you Heather and her "Marina" vest.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
The First of the New Year
It has been many months since I sat to blog about reading, knitting, and life. I have decided that I am going to be more diligent this year. So here is my first of many.
Book # 1 "Coventry" by Helen Humphreys
This was a very quick read (uncorrected proof that I borrowed from my friend Michele). I have read a fair bit of this Canadian author. Not only is she Canadian but she also lives in "my neck of the woods"Ontario!!
In the past I have enjoyed such titles as "The Lost Garden"(my favorite), "Afterimage", and "Wild Dogs". This book was not a disappointment, in fact after "The Lost Garden" this is now my favorite. Both of these books were centered in England during the World Wars of the past Century. A time and place that both intrigue me.
Coventry is not only the story of November 14, 1940 - the infamous German bombing raid that reduced Coventry to almost nothing, but also the story of two women Harriet and Maeve and a young man named Jeremy.
The book starts with a little history about the lives of Harriet and Maeve and their chance meeting during the early days of World War I. But, it is the night in November of 1940 that cements their lives together for ever more.
I would give this book a solid 3.5 out of 5.
Book # 1 "Coventry" by Helen Humphreys
This was a very quick read (uncorrected proof that I borrowed from my friend Michele). I have read a fair bit of this Canadian author. Not only is she Canadian but she also lives in "my neck of the woods"Ontario!!
In the past I have enjoyed such titles as "The Lost Garden"(my favorite), "Afterimage", and "Wild Dogs". This book was not a disappointment, in fact after "The Lost Garden" this is now my favorite. Both of these books were centered in England during the World Wars of the past Century. A time and place that both intrigue me.
Coventry is not only the story of November 14, 1940 - the infamous German bombing raid that reduced Coventry to almost nothing, but also the story of two women Harriet and Maeve and a young man named Jeremy.
The book starts with a little history about the lives of Harriet and Maeve and their chance meeting during the early days of World War I. But, it is the night in November of 1940 that cements their lives together for ever more.
I would give this book a solid 3.5 out of 5.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Another Quick Catch UP
WOW, over 3 months since I have made a post. Still reading and knitting just have not taken the time to journal about any of it. Since my last post I have read about 11 books and finished quite a few knitting projects. I will have to look and see how to post them in a journal post.
A few of the books I have read are: Night by Elie Wiesel (excellent), The Mistress's Daughter by A. M. Homes(disappointing), Drunk divorced and Covered in Cat Hair by Laurie Perry (cute knitting read), Girls in Trucks by Katie Crouch (good), The Girl Who TStopped Swimming by Joshilyn Jackson (an ok read), Garden Spells by Sarah Addison (great new writer with her second book out in hardcover right now), The Me I Used To BE by Jennifer Archer (I was surprised how harlequins have changed over the years, this was good), Other Voices, Other Rooms by Truman Capote (not his best work but definatly worth the read), Lottery by Patricia Wood (great story), and A Hidden Life by Adele Geras (average story). Phew, most of these are journaled on my bookcrossing.com bookshelf. Im almost finished "The Ballad Of Typhoid Mary" by J. F, Federspiel. A book that I tried to read years ago but left if at work and someone took it!! The very sweet MsJoanna from bookcrossing found another copy and sent it to me. This book has been out of print for some time and very hard to get your hands on. More later, Im off to read and knit.Oh ya, I just looked at how Im doing with my goal of reading the 24 books I picked for this year and I have only read 8 out of the 24 - I better get crackin!
A few of the books I have read are: Night by Elie Wiesel (excellent), The Mistress's Daughter by A. M. Homes(disappointing), Drunk divorced and Covered in Cat Hair by Laurie Perry (cute knitting read), Girls in Trucks by Katie Crouch (good), The Girl Who TStopped Swimming by Joshilyn Jackson (an ok read), Garden Spells by Sarah Addison (great new writer with her second book out in hardcover right now), The Me I Used To BE by Jennifer Archer (I was surprised how harlequins have changed over the years, this was good), Other Voices, Other Rooms by Truman Capote (not his best work but definatly worth the read), Lottery by Patricia Wood (great story), and A Hidden Life by Adele Geras (average story). Phew, most of these are journaled on my bookcrossing.com bookshelf. Im almost finished "The Ballad Of Typhoid Mary" by J. F, Federspiel. A book that I tried to read years ago but left if at work and someone took it!! The very sweet MsJoanna from bookcrossing found another copy and sent it to me. This book has been out of print for some time and very hard to get your hands on. More later, Im off to read and knit.Oh ya, I just looked at how Im doing with my goal of reading the 24 books I picked for this year and I have only read 8 out of the 24 - I better get crackin!
Monday, April 28, 2008
Time Keeps Speeding By
Though I have not posted but once this month, I have been busy reading and knitting. Im finding it hard to be organized this month (ok every month). I have managed to read The Puzzle Bark Tree by Stephanie Gertler. It was a nice gentle read though a little predictable. I also just finished Bound (an uncorrected proof, to be published this month by Harper Collins) by Sally Gunning. This was my first read by this author and I was pleasantly satisfied. Historical Fiction in the mid 1700's in and around Boston and Cape Cod set the scene to tell the story of Alice a young girl of 15 who had been sold to a gentleman by her father after her mother and siblings die on the ocean voyage from England to America. Alice was a likeable character but I really found myself drawn to Freeman and the Widow Berry. Their kindness to Alice and the relationship they shared was inspiring. It's easy to forget that the black slaves were not the only people owned by others that were often less than humane to these unfortunates. I would definately read other books by Sally Gunning.
On the knitting front I have finished Mary Jo's poncho (it is being blocked as I type) and will post some pics shortly. I have started my first sock (knitting it on two circular needles) and I am making a cool looking felted basket for my mom to put her crossword puzzle books and balls of yarn in for Mother's Day. Oh ya, I also completed a cute little felted pillow that I just need to stuff then I will post a pic of that as well. Ok, time has run out and I have to get to work.
On the knitting front I have finished Mary Jo's poncho (it is being blocked as I type) and will post some pics shortly. I have started my first sock (knitting it on two circular needles) and I am making a cool looking felted basket for my mom to put her crossword puzzle books and balls of yarn in for Mother's Day. Oh ya, I also completed a cute little felted pillow that I just need to stuff then I will post a pic of that as well. Ok, time has run out and I have to get to work.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Excellent Women
Barbara Pym was one of those authors that didn't write of fast paced plots or even deep plots (in my opinion) but instead, a simple story with very well developed characters. Excellent Women is another fine example of this.
Set in the 1950's England, Pym (as she usually does) writes of an unmarried (spinster they called it then) woman in her early 30's (would we be spinsters at 30 in todays society LOL) and her relationships in and around the church. These are not preachy books by any means and are often filled with somewhat dark humor making the reader wonder what the author really thought of the "church" in the earlier part of the last century.
"Mildred Lathbury is a cleryman's daughter and a spinster in the England of the 1950's, one of those 'excellent women' who tend to get involved in other people's lives-such as those of her new neighbor, Rockingham, and the vicar next door."
I think this is tied with Crampton Hodnet for my favorite read by Barbara Pym.
Set in the 1950's England, Pym (as she usually does) writes of an unmarried (spinster they called it then) woman in her early 30's (would we be spinsters at 30 in todays society LOL) and her relationships in and around the church. These are not preachy books by any means and are often filled with somewhat dark humor making the reader wonder what the author really thought of the "church" in the earlier part of the last century.
"Mildred Lathbury is a cleryman's daughter and a spinster in the England of the 1950's, one of those 'excellent women' who tend to get involved in other people's lives-such as those of her new neighbor, Rockingham, and the vicar next door."
I think this is tied with Crampton Hodnet for my favorite read by Barbara Pym.
Saturday, March 22, 2008
One of the Reasons I Love Him
My hubby is in Las Vegas and of all the cool pics he could send home for me to see this is what he sent. He he he. This is one of the reasons I love him.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Ramblings from Someone Confined to Bed
Hubby and his dad. Kev's Dad is turning 68 this weekend and since we wont be around to celebrate with the family we met him for lunch earlier this week. It was a really nice time and I heard the two of them both say the "L" word to each other. This doesnt happen often and it really warmed my heart. Lunch was very yummy (the best butternut squash soup I have ever had) but within 12 hours I was not feeling very good! Im the only one that felt sick so I guess it's not food poisoning.That was two days ago and since then I have barely left my bedroom. I have missed two days of work and Im starting to go stir crazy. I must admit I did have about 2 hours of feeling good and went with Enza to get a pedicure. That was probably a mistake. Im half finished the poncho Im knitting for MJ and wanted to start the felted bag Im going to make for me, but didnt have the concentration to start it. So I'm knitting a very simple felted pillow that I might add three felted flowers to. I have not even been reading more than a couple pages at a time and find myself staring at the television but not really paying attention. Hubby leaves tomorrow for Las Vegas and my girlie is coming home (from University) on Saturday until Tuesday. It will be just a girls weekend as both of the boys are not coming home this weekend. Well, I guess its back to bed for now. Hopefully work tomorrow!!
Friday, March 14, 2008
Someone New Worth Reading
I received this from Harper Collins and their First Look Program.
I think this is the best book I have read so far this year and it is from a first time author and (I believe) Canadian to boot. The book is to be in stores sometime this month and I believe it is well worth reading. Donna Milner worked in real estate until her husband encouraged her to start writing. The manuscript was found in her agent's slush pile and is now being published in at least seven countries including Canada. Milner lives in British Columbia with her hubby and is currently at work on her next novel.
It is only in the past few years that I have found many Canadian authors that I enjoy. Until then I often found them wordy and boring. I guess I was reading the wrong ones. Because in the past few years I have read quite a few Canadians that I really loved. I often hear people say (about books) that they didn't like a certain book because they didn't like a certain character and what they stood for. I think that it is a superb author that can evoke such emotion from us and pull us into the reality of their story. Some Canadian authors that I believe are well worth checking out are Ann -Marie MacDonald, Bernice Morgan, Joan Clark (one of my all time favorite authors), Mary Lawson, D. R. MacDonald, and Peter Robinson ( a transplanted Brit for well over 30 years).
Anyways, back to what I intended to blog about - After River - is full of characters that work their way into your heart. Just as important was the time and the setting that this story took place . It started in the mid 1960's on a small western farm, in a time when the world was changing fast and a somewhat blanket of innocence was leaving society. The main protagonist Natalie Ward then a 15 yr old believed as I think most of us did in our younger years that our families were exempt from tragedy and that nothing could ever happen to change that. The slow gentle setting of this novel reminded me of a time when my life seemed so much more enveloped in goodness. Donna Milner was able to take me back to a gentler time in my life with many of her examples of life in the 1960's and 70's. However, the story went on to show me that even in what a lot of us remember as good years, pain and heartache still managed to creep into everyday life. Until River (an American Draft Dodger) showed up at the Ward's farm Natalie believed that nothing - not secrets, betrayals, or people could ever come between the love in her family.
I don't want to give away the story so I will just give the description off the back of the book and hope that you enjoy it like I did.
"Growing up on a dairy farm in the mountains of British Columbia in the 1960s, just three miles north of the American border, Natalie Ward knew little of the outside world. But she had her family, a family so close and loving that Natalie believed they were the envy of the nearby town of Atwood – particularly her eldest brother Boyer, whom Natalie held especially close to her heart.But Natalie began to question her family’s idyllic existence the summer she turned fifteen. The arrival of a soft-spoken stranger, an American draft-dodger called River, would test the morals and beliefs of the family and the community to breaking point. The series of events following that summer day would leave relationships shattered and the Ward family changed forever."
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Yarn Yarn and More Yarn
Yesterday I spent the day with my knitting/reading friend Janelle. I got up early on my day off and drove one quick hour to pick Janelle up at her place of work. From there we made a quick stop at the bank and then tore up the road to Cloth and Clay. No need to put a link because they are going out of business. Hence our hurry to get there. Everything including their books were 50% off, even the yarn that was already discounted. It was hard (but I did manage) to control myself. I felt like I had died and gone to Fibre Heaven.
I ended up buying the book Knit 2 Together by Tracey Ullman and Mel Clark. It was 50% off and seeing that it was regularly priced at $35.00 I had been putting of getting it. This book has some great and fun patterns and I think Im going to make my girlie Hailey the "Witches Britches".
As for yarn I ended up with:
450M Lang Yarns - JA WOLL sock yarn - Janelle says it makes great socks.
690M Butterfly Mercerized Cotton in an awesome aqua colour - It is EL. D. Mouzakis (never heard of this company) made in Greece. Im think summer tank top for someone.
378M MANOS del URUGUAY kettle dyed 100% Wool in very manly colours of black, dark brown, tan, and cranberry that all blend into each other - probably a scarf and maybe hat for hubby.
375M (aran weight) Kid Aran (50% Mohair 50% Wool) hand painted by Fleece Artist in a gorgeous green. This is to make the felted TOTO bag for me - thats right my first project for me other then scarves.
All in all I only spent $98.00, and I can't tell you what Janelle spent - I was sworn to secrecy.
From there we drove the 20 minutes to Shall We Knit (one of our favorites) in New Hamburg. It was lunch by this time so next door to the yarn store is a cute little rustic like cafe/diner, full of home made yummies. I had the Strawberry/brie quiche with wild greens sprinkled with feta and nuts. Janelle had her favorite tuna sandwich on homemade bread and a bowl of tomato dill soup. Oh ya the restaurant is called MeMe's. Try it if you are ever in New Hamburg.
We then spent the afternoon chatting with Karen (the owner and resident knitter of Shall We Knit) and anyone that wandered in. Janelle is teaching a lesson on Mitered Square Scarf at the end of the month and I was her test pupil. Good for her and good for me - I learned the stitch so I can start my Stained Glass Throw Blanket. This is a great store, full of beautiful yarns, books and company. It is in what used to be an old bank . It is very open and welcoming and the front of the store has a big table and chairs where you are encouraged to sit and knit and chat. I purchased two sets of double pointed needles and a bunch of Koigu Mill Ends to start my stained glass project.
When I finally got home last night I was smiling from ear to ear, but exhausted. A perfect day in my opinion.
I ended up buying the book Knit 2 Together by Tracey Ullman and Mel Clark. It was 50% off and seeing that it was regularly priced at $35.00 I had been putting of getting it. This book has some great and fun patterns and I think Im going to make my girlie Hailey the "Witches Britches".
As for yarn I ended up with:
450M Lang Yarns - JA WOLL sock yarn - Janelle says it makes great socks.
690M Butterfly Mercerized Cotton in an awesome aqua colour - It is EL. D. Mouzakis (never heard of this company) made in Greece. Im think summer tank top for someone.
378M MANOS del URUGUAY kettle dyed 100% Wool in very manly colours of black, dark brown, tan, and cranberry that all blend into each other - probably a scarf and maybe hat for hubby.
375M (aran weight) Kid Aran (50% Mohair 50% Wool) hand painted by Fleece Artist in a gorgeous green. This is to make the felted TOTO bag for me - thats right my first project for me other then scarves.
All in all I only spent $98.00, and I can't tell you what Janelle spent - I was sworn to secrecy.
From there we drove the 20 minutes to Shall We Knit (one of our favorites) in New Hamburg. It was lunch by this time so next door to the yarn store is a cute little rustic like cafe/diner, full of home made yummies. I had the Strawberry/brie quiche with wild greens sprinkled with feta and nuts. Janelle had her favorite tuna sandwich on homemade bread and a bowl of tomato dill soup. Oh ya the restaurant is called MeMe's. Try it if you are ever in New Hamburg.
We then spent the afternoon chatting with Karen (the owner and resident knitter of Shall We Knit) and anyone that wandered in. Janelle is teaching a lesson on Mitered Square Scarf at the end of the month and I was her test pupil. Good for her and good for me - I learned the stitch so I can start my Stained Glass Throw Blanket. This is a great store, full of beautiful yarns, books and company. It is in what used to be an old bank . It is very open and welcoming and the front of the store has a big table and chairs where you are encouraged to sit and knit and chat. I purchased two sets of double pointed needles and a bunch of Koigu Mill Ends to start my stained glass project.
When I finally got home last night I was smiling from ear to ear, but exhausted. A perfect day in my opinion.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
The Yorkshire Pudding Club
I picked this up last year in England. There was lovely outdoor market near where my mominlaw lived and they had a huge stand full of books. This was just one that I grabbed from this market. We had to fly out so suddenly that I didnt even pack any books. This market also had some colourful yarn that I have since used and didnt take any pics of. When mil passed away reading was the last thing on my mind and then with all the books I have at home this just seemed to fall to the bottom of the pile.
A few days ago I came across it and feeling that I wanted a light hearted sort of read decided that its time had come. The inside cover said that this was Milly Johnson's first novel and that she had another in the works. The Yorkshire Pudding Club starts with three thirty something lifelong friends having a picnic at the base of a fertility statue. Helen the only one of the group that wants to have a child and is desperate to concieve has decided that perhaps the statue may be her last chance. From the picture on the cover of the book it is easy to see that Helen will not be the only one with life changes in the works.
The plot was mostly predictable and aside from a few older stereotypical situations I enjoyed this light and funny read. But then again Im a sucker for anything British and Babies.
A few days ago I came across it and feeling that I wanted a light hearted sort of read decided that its time had come. The inside cover said that this was Milly Johnson's first novel and that she had another in the works. The Yorkshire Pudding Club starts with three thirty something lifelong friends having a picnic at the base of a fertility statue. Helen the only one of the group that wants to have a child and is desperate to concieve has decided that perhaps the statue may be her last chance. From the picture on the cover of the book it is easy to see that Helen will not be the only one with life changes in the works.
The plot was mostly predictable and aside from a few older stereotypical situations I enjoyed this light and funny read. But then again Im a sucker for anything British and Babies.
Monday, February 25, 2008
On Chesil Beach
This quick read was definately not my cup of tea. I have tried in the past to read Ian McEwan and never managed to finish one of his books. That being said, I did mange to trudge my way to the finish line with this one - though barely.
My mom always told me that if I had nothing nice to say to say nothing at all. This is going to be one of those times that I follow her advice. Isnt it nice to know that we all have our own opinions and thankfully (for Mr. McEwan) mine is but one on the reading highway.
My mom always told me that if I had nothing nice to say to say nothing at all. This is going to be one of those times that I follow her advice. Isnt it nice to know that we all have our own opinions and thankfully (for Mr. McEwan) mine is but one on the reading highway.
Lollipop Shoes
Publishers Weekly
Harris revisits characters from 1999's bestselling Chocolatin this equally delectable modern fairy tale. More than four years have passed since Vianne Rocher pitted her enchanted chocolate confections against the local clergy's interpretation of Lent in smalltown France; since then, Vianne has renounced magic, changed her name to Yanne Charbonneau and moved with her two daughters to Paris's Montmartre district. There, Yanne embraces conformity and safety, much to the dismay of her increasingly troubled older daughter, Anouk. When Anouk becomes entranced with Zozie de l'Alba, an exotic itinerant who happens upon a job at the new shop, and the relationship grows increasingly sinister, Yanne must call up all of Vianne's powers, culinary and mystical, to save her family. Harris again structures the narrative (told in alternate chapters by Zozie, Yanne and Anouk) around a liturgical season (in this case Advent). Harris gives fans much to savor in this multilayered novel, from the descriptions (including Yanne's mouthwatering chocolate confections, Zozie's whimsical footwear and Anouk's artistic efforts) to the novel's classic, enduring theme of good vs. evil-and the difficulty of telling the difference.
This Book is Titled The Girl With No Shadow on this side of the pond.
Finished this enjoyable read last week. I think that I enjoyed it just as much as Chocolat. I had lent this book to a friend to read before me and her comment was that it felt like it was set in the wrong time period and that she was not sure that she liked the dark tone of this sequel.
I would agree that The Lollipop Shoes definately had a much darker tone then Chocolat, but it pulled me in just a quickly. I enjoyed spending time with Vianne and Anouk again, and even found myself (at times) being charmed by Zozie de l'Alba. Author Joanne Harris has once again taken me from my living room couch to the heavy sweet smell, taste, and atmosphere of a small chocolatier. And of course I found myself enjoying just a little bit of chocolate along with this book.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Made for Cuddles
Another busy week. Oldest son Cam came home to have surgery on his eardrum and the gruesome twosome (Spencer and Hailey) came for a one week visit. Its been hectic but nice to have everyone home. Between all my running around, I managed to finish Cam's throw blanket before his surgery. He really liked it and could be found on the couch cuddled up in it for most of the week. This was a simple pattern to knit, just garter and stocking stitch. The difference in the bulk and texture of the wools ( 100% silk, 100% cotton and 98% Alpaca with 2% nylon) made this a very light loose knit but warm one as well. I am very happy with the finished product. Because of all the ends that needed to be woven in I decided to tie them together and make a fringe.
On the reading front I am reading The Lollipop Shoes by Joanne Harris and at the halfway mark I am really enjoying it. For valentines day hubby gave me a gift certificate for Chapters, so off to one of my favorite stores I did go. I bought two knitting mags and a wishlist book along with a knitting book. I think I'm in Love. (he he he)
On the reading front I am reading The Lollipop Shoes by Joanne Harris and at the halfway mark I am really enjoying it. For valentines day hubby gave me a gift certificate for Chapters, so off to one of my favorite stores I did go. I bought two knitting mags and a wishlist book along with a knitting book. I think I'm in Love. (he he he)
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Slow Down the Clock
Time to do all the things I love seems to be limited this past week. I did manage to finish two books since I last posted, one of them being The Rock Orchard by Paula Wall. Do you ever pick up a book more for the cover then the blurb on the jacket cover?? I do, and this was one of them.
"Some women can touch a man and heal like Jesus. The man who sees sunrise from a Belle women's bed will swear he's been born again."
"So begins Paula Wall's funny, poignant, and sexy novel, 'The Rock Orchard'. Musette Belle could lay her hand on a baby's heart and see his life as if he'd already lived it. Even in death, she continues to shock the good citizens of Leaper's Fork, tennessee, and her descendents are doing their best to carry on her legacy. Angela Belle, a haunting and beautiful siren, lures every man she meets into greatness, while her illegitimate and very independent daughter, Dixie, serves tea and vanilla wafers to the statue of the Confederate soldier she believes is her father. But when Charlotte Belle, a woman who would rather spend the night with Jack Daniel's than any man she knows, seduces a stranger in the cemetery, it not only transforms the two people involved but the entire town."
This had sat in my TBR pile for far to long so I decided to add it to my goal list of books to read this year. I'm glad I did because this was mainly a story about strong women, and more to the point the 'Belle' Women. This had a tinge of southern to it and a whole lot of chuckle out loud phrases but, it also had a story that made me think. I have put Paula Wall's next book in my wishlist and look forward to reading it.
I also finish Blood on the Tongue by Stephen booth. I wasn't as interested in this story as the first two that I read in this series. It was an average read but seemed slow paced to me. Booth continues to develop his characters Ben Cooper and Diane Fry and I do enjoy their little quirks but wish that this novel had of been set at a faster pace. Just my opinion and it certainly wont stop me from trying number 4 in the series.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Meme
Jessiebud tagged me to complete this meme.
So here goes:
1. Tell 7 quirks, habits or unknown (to most) things about yourself.
2. Tag 7 people to complete this meme but not the person that tagged you.
1. My first husband and my current husband were both born on October 19th. This was also my parents wedding anniversary.
2. I graduated from College as a single mom of three kids under the age of 11.
3. If I could start a new career I would be a midwife.
4. I would love to live in both rural Ireland and England for at least one year.
5. I have a huge fear of Death
6. I love to smell and touch my books - I know Im strange!
7. I have been with my hubby for 16 years but we have only been married almost 6 years.
Im tagging Ottawabill, beckerbuns, morsecode, Aceofhearts, cestmoi, hoserlauren, and princessrica
So here goes:
1. Tell 7 quirks, habits or unknown (to most) things about yourself.
2. Tag 7 people to complete this meme but not the person that tagged you.
1. My first husband and my current husband were both born on October 19th. This was also my parents wedding anniversary.
2. I graduated from College as a single mom of three kids under the age of 11.
3. If I could start a new career I would be a midwife.
4. I would love to live in both rural Ireland and England for at least one year.
5. I have a huge fear of Death
6. I love to smell and touch my books - I know Im strange!
7. I have been with my hubby for 16 years but we have only been married almost 6 years.
Im tagging Ottawabill, beckerbuns, morsecode, Aceofhearts, cestmoi, hoserlauren, and princessrica
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Book Meme
Dana (Aceofhearts) tagged me to complete this meme
What book do you irrationally cringe away from reading, despite seeing only positive reviews?
Three immediately come to mind - "She's Come Undone" by Wally Lamb, and I'm not sure why because I enjoyed his other novel. I have only heard good things about this book but I have had it on my bookshelf a few times and just could not bring myself to attempt it. The second book is "The DaVinci Code" and the third is any Harry Potter books.
If you could bring three characters to life for a social event, who would they be and what would the event be?
I would bring Inspector Alan Banks from Peter Robinson's mystery series, Anne Shirley of "Anne of Green Gables" and Moranna MacKenzie of "An Audience of Chairs". We would meet at a remote cabin in a clearing somewhere near the Ocean. Our time would be spent drinking tea and shooting the shit.
You are told you can't die until you read the most boring novel on the planet. While this immortality is great for awhile, eventually you realize it's past time to die. Which book would you expect to give you a nice grave?
I don't know if it is the most boring book on the planet but I think the Bible and following its lessons would help to secure a nice hereafter. I've only read parts of it so I guess I will have to stick around for awhile longer. he he
Come on, we've all been there. Which book have you pretended, or at least hinted, that you've read, when in fact you have been nowhere near it?
I dont think that I have ever hinted or lied about reading a book that I havent.
As an addition to the last question, has there been a book that you really thought you had read, only to realize when you read a review about it/go to 'reread' it that you have'nt. Which book?
I can't think of one but I'm sure it has happened on occasion probabky if it was part of a series I might become confused about having read it or not.
You've been appointed Book Advisor to a VIP (who's not a big reader). What's the first book you would pick and why?
I would pick "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee because it is a classic (IMO), aone of my very favorite books.
A good fairy comes and grants you one wish: you will have perfect reading comprehension in the foreign language of your choice. What language do you go with?
Probably Gaelic.
A mischievious fairy comes and tells you that you must pick one book that you will reread once a year for the rest of your life. Which book would you pick?
Easily "The Time Travellers Wife"
I know that the book blogging community, and its various challenges, have pushed my reading borders. What is one bookish thing that you 'discovered' from book blogging?
Definately to read out of my normal comfort zone, and that there is a whole world out there to still be discovered.
That good fairy is back for one last visit. Now, she's granting you your dream library! Describe it and the books that would fill it.
My dream library would have a huge window that looks out over rolling hills, a pond and beautiful flower gardens. It would have a window seat covered with a comfy cushion.
The bookshelves would be built in and the books on them would be both new and used ( I love a book that has been 'loved' my many. It would not matter if they were paperback or hardcover and some would be autographed. I would have an over stuffed chair and a horribly comfy over sized couch, that you would just sink into. The walls would be covered in pictures of family and friends and the floors would be in big plank hardwood with a small throw rug. This room would be probably decorated like an old english country house. There would also be a huge wood burning fireplace, like the ones in old manor houses that use to heat the whole house.
Now I have to tag 4 people to complete this meme.
Lauren (hoserlauren), Shelley (jessiebud), Vincenza (cestmoi) and Janelle (Antheras)
What book do you irrationally cringe away from reading, despite seeing only positive reviews?
Three immediately come to mind - "She's Come Undone" by Wally Lamb, and I'm not sure why because I enjoyed his other novel. I have only heard good things about this book but I have had it on my bookshelf a few times and just could not bring myself to attempt it. The second book is "The DaVinci Code" and the third is any Harry Potter books.
If you could bring three characters to life for a social event, who would they be and what would the event be?
I would bring Inspector Alan Banks from Peter Robinson's mystery series, Anne Shirley of "Anne of Green Gables" and Moranna MacKenzie of "An Audience of Chairs". We would meet at a remote cabin in a clearing somewhere near the Ocean. Our time would be spent drinking tea and shooting the shit.
You are told you can't die until you read the most boring novel on the planet. While this immortality is great for awhile, eventually you realize it's past time to die. Which book would you expect to give you a nice grave?
I don't know if it is the most boring book on the planet but I think the Bible and following its lessons would help to secure a nice hereafter. I've only read parts of it so I guess I will have to stick around for awhile longer. he he
Come on, we've all been there. Which book have you pretended, or at least hinted, that you've read, when in fact you have been nowhere near it?
I dont think that I have ever hinted or lied about reading a book that I havent.
As an addition to the last question, has there been a book that you really thought you had read, only to realize when you read a review about it/go to 'reread' it that you have'nt. Which book?
I can't think of one but I'm sure it has happened on occasion probabky if it was part of a series I might become confused about having read it or not.
You've been appointed Book Advisor to a VIP (who's not a big reader). What's the first book you would pick and why?
I would pick "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee because it is a classic (IMO), aone of my very favorite books.
A good fairy comes and grants you one wish: you will have perfect reading comprehension in the foreign language of your choice. What language do you go with?
Probably Gaelic.
A mischievious fairy comes and tells you that you must pick one book that you will reread once a year for the rest of your life. Which book would you pick?
Easily "The Time Travellers Wife"
I know that the book blogging community, and its various challenges, have pushed my reading borders. What is one bookish thing that you 'discovered' from book blogging?
Definately to read out of my normal comfort zone, and that there is a whole world out there to still be discovered.
That good fairy is back for one last visit. Now, she's granting you your dream library! Describe it and the books that would fill it.
My dream library would have a huge window that looks out over rolling hills, a pond and beautiful flower gardens. It would have a window seat covered with a comfy cushion.
The bookshelves would be built in and the books on them would be both new and used ( I love a book that has been 'loved' my many. It would not matter if they were paperback or hardcover and some would be autographed. I would have an over stuffed chair and a horribly comfy over sized couch, that you would just sink into. The walls would be covered in pictures of family and friends and the floors would be in big plank hardwood with a small throw rug. This room would be probably decorated like an old english country house. There would also be a huge wood burning fireplace, like the ones in old manor houses that use to heat the whole house.
Now I have to tag 4 people to complete this meme.
Lauren (hoserlauren), Shelley (jessiebud), Vincenza (cestmoi) and Janelle (Antheras)
Friday, January 25, 2008
Dancing with the Virgins
Late last fall I was looking for a new (to me) mystery series to follow. I'm partial to British settings when I read mysteries, and years ago fell in love with Peter Robinson's Inspector Banks series. I had tried the Rebus novels by Ian Rankin thinking that the Scottish settings would pull me in, but I found Rankin's character of Rebus and his style of writing just a bit to dark for my taste. Someone (and I can't remember who) suggested Stephen Booth. Booth's books are set in Britian, mostly (so far) in the Peak District . Booth 's main protagonists in these novels are Ben Cooper an almost 30 copper from the local area and the newly transplanted Sergeant Diane Fry.
In Booth's second novel of this series "Dancing with the Virgins" again takes place in and around the Peak District. The Virgins are a set of nine stones placed in a circle with the tenth stone set off to the side. Legend had it that nine village maidens had been caught dancing on the Sabbath and had been turned to stone for their sin and that the tenth stone (the fiddler that played for them) had been dealt the same fate. When the partially naked body of a woman turns up in the circle, Fry and Cooper must solve what seems to be a senseless crime .
I enjoyed watching the relationship start to take shape between Fry and Cooper on a professional level and wonder just how far on a personal level these two will evolve. Opposites may or may not attract in this case?? Don't let this fool you into thinking that this series is more about love interests then mystery and suspense. Booth writes without pleasantries and places the facts in the readers face - cold and unflowered - at times with description unwanting.
My only complaint would be that with the large amount of key characters in this book, I sometimes found it hard to keep them all in place. Nonetheless, I am eager to continue this series that I am sharing with my friend Enza (cestmoi).
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