Today is the last day of the year, for me a day of retrospect, introspect and goal setting. Although I often refer to my year long plan as "New Year's Resolutions". In fact they are a plan for the next 365 days of my life. Some of my goals can be accomplished and then put aside while others will be in progress for most of the year.
This is also the time when I really look at my life and ask "Is this who I really want to be?" So I bring you a short, and book related list of my goals for next year.
I want to read more, and better. Although I have read a lot this month I normally only really read 3 to 5 books per month. I would like to step that up. Timing will be the issue. I also have other things on my list that I cannot do while reading. Quality. I want to bring even more quality into my reading experience, There are many books that have been on my "to read" list for years. I want to get some of those titles onto the list of books I have read.
I want to promote the books I love. Beginning this blog started that process but I want to continue recommending books to you as well as find new ways to promote books. One thought I am playing with is to provide books to a class or a school. Maybe an assisted living facility would like the books I don't plan to read again.
I want to read every book ever written by Carlos Ruiz Zafon and Umberto Eco, in English of course. I have read books by each of these remarkable writers but want more. I believe you gain a new insight when you have read all the works a writer has created.
Lastly, I want to read more poetry in the coming year. As a teen I read so very much poetry, but over time I moved away from it. It doesn't make sense, it is much quicker to read several poems than to sit down and read a book. My first will be to read an autographed copy of Nine Horses by Billy Collins from cover to cover. Tucked inside is a moving letter from one of my former students about the impact I had on her life, I will read that again before this year ends.
What are your reading goals for 2012? I hope you have a few precious moments to read either tonight or tomorrow to start your year off right.
Happy New Years!
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Day 25 and A Merry Christmas!
To me there is really only one story that is perfect to read today. You will find it in your Bible. No matter what translation you prefer it will tell the story in the words you most want to hear.
Join me in reading Matthew 1:18-2:12 and Luke 2:1-20.
Afterword have a blessed Christmas!
Join me in reading Matthew 1:18-2:12 and Luke 2:1-20.
Afterword have a blessed Christmas!
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Day 24 Christmas Story
This is a night for sugarplums dancing in our heads. 'Twas the Night Before Christmas by Clement C. Moore is the perfect quick read for all ages. Over the years it has also been known as The Night Before Christmas and as A Visit from St. Nicholas. This is such a Christmas classic that you may know it by heart. This poem can be found in anthologies, both poetry and Christmas. 10 Best Loved Christmas Classic Stories for All Ages, available on Kindle and recommended earlier, also contains the companion poem 'Twas the Night After Christmas.
It is also often found in a variety of picture books. I want to share the copy my Mother received as a small child one Christmas. The copyright date is 1941, by the Saasfield Pub. Co., Akron Ohio, Made in the U.S.A. and the number 2359. The book does not credit Moore as the author, that may be because it was originally published anonymously in 1823. It does have the artist's name, Ethel Hays on most of the pages. It is a large format, 9 3/4 by 12 3/4, on a heavy textured paper in full color as you can see. Enjoy!
Friday, December 23, 2011
Day 23 Christmas Story
I confess, I just could not get through the holiday without Charles Dickens. I have found that, in general, people either love or hate Dickens. There doesn't appear to be a lot of middle ground. If you are unsure about him please give The Haunted Man and the Ghost's Bargain it is much scarier than A Christmas Carol and just as long.
The Dickens I know and love does come through, this story is about the spirit of Christmas more than the holiday itself. The main character, Mr. Redlaw is consumed by grief over the wrongs done to him in life. Rather than an actual ghost he is haunted by a phantom twin who helps him to spread bitterness to others around him. Forgetfulness is the Phantom's solution for skipping the sadness in one's life but it becomes a curse that Redlaw spreads to others. Milly is Dickens typically perfectly good female character, she and a young boy are immune to the curse. They are instrumental in leading Redlaw to the change that makes him more loving and humble in the end.
I read this story from The Ultimate Christmas Collection on my Kindle. Gutenberg has it in several formats as well. You can also download it for free here, where you can take part in a discussion forum.
The Dickens I know and love does come through, this story is about the spirit of Christmas more than the holiday itself. The main character, Mr. Redlaw is consumed by grief over the wrongs done to him in life. Rather than an actual ghost he is haunted by a phantom twin who helps him to spread bitterness to others around him. Forgetfulness is the Phantom's solution for skipping the sadness in one's life but it becomes a curse that Redlaw spreads to others. Milly is Dickens typically perfectly good female character, she and a young boy are immune to the curse. They are instrumental in leading Redlaw to the change that makes him more loving and humble in the end.
I read this story from The Ultimate Christmas Collection on my Kindle. Gutenberg has it in several formats as well. You can also download it for free here, where you can take part in a discussion forum.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Day 22 Christmas Story
A Story of the Child by Elizabeth Harrison is today's story. Harrison, 1849-1927, wrote many children's stories and made a career of early childhood education and advancement.
It is based on the legend of the Christ Child, disguised as a homeless boy, traveling the land searching for someone who will take him in on Christmas Eve. This version of the story is simple and can be shared with even the younger children. Many families turn away the poorly dressed and cold child. But the family who takes him into their home is rewarded by seeing the child revealed as Christ.
This is a very quick read that I found in a digital collection 10 Best Loved Christmas Classic Stories for All Ages edited by Christopher Hong for under $1 at Amazon. It can also be found as an individual story at Archive.org to be read online or downloaded in a variety of formats including PDF, EPUB, Kindle and Daisy.
It is based on the legend of the Christ Child, disguised as a homeless boy, traveling the land searching for someone who will take him in on Christmas Eve. This version of the story is simple and can be shared with even the younger children. Many families turn away the poorly dressed and cold child. But the family who takes him into their home is rewarded by seeing the child revealed as Christ.
This is a very quick read that I found in a digital collection 10 Best Loved Christmas Classic Stories for All Ages edited by Christopher Hong for under $1 at Amazon. It can also be found as an individual story at Archive.org to be read online or downloaded in a variety of formats including PDF, EPUB, Kindle and Daisy.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Day 21 Christmas Story
A special seasonal short story from Louisa May Alcott. The Christmas Dream, is my most recent Christmas read. It is the story of ten year old Effie, a rich girl who has already grown tired of Christmas. She is no longer excited by the gifts or the treats. Her mother suggests that she read A Christmas Carol and learn a lesson from "old Scrooge".
Effie finds the book in the family library and reads straight through the rest of the day. That night she has a dream of her own where she meets a Christmas Spirit who shows her many poor people and the miracles that grace their lives. When she wakes Effie wishes to make miracles of her own. Effie's mother promises a surprise and is busy making plans in secret although she does allow Effie and her nurse to do some of the shopping. At last Christmas has arrived and there is a surprise of grand scale awaiting the little girl.
I won't spoil the surprise for you, you really must read this story for yourself. You can read it online or print it out at Hymns and Carols of Christmas here, or order it as an ebook from Amazon or Barnes & Noble. It can be purchased on a CD from either of those book dealers for around $5. Perhaps tonight you will dream of the perfect Christmas, too.
Effie finds the book in the family library and reads straight through the rest of the day. That night she has a dream of her own where she meets a Christmas Spirit who shows her many poor people and the miracles that grace their lives. When she wakes Effie wishes to make miracles of her own. Effie's mother promises a surprise and is busy making plans in secret although she does allow Effie and her nurse to do some of the shopping. At last Christmas has arrived and there is a surprise of grand scale awaiting the little girl.
I won't spoil the surprise for you, you really must read this story for yourself. You can read it online or print it out at Hymns and Carols of Christmas here, or order it as an ebook from Amazon or Barnes & Noble. It can be purchased on a CD from either of those book dealers for around $5. Perhaps tonight you will dream of the perfect Christmas, too.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Day 20 Christmas Story
A delightful, funny and inspiring novella for the season is The Christmas Bus by Melody Carlson. Every inch of Christmas Valley, Oregon is about Christmas. Mrs. Santa's Diner, the Mayor dressed up as Santa, the North Pole Coffee Shop, gift shops and the Shepherd's Inn have turned it into a tourist attraction.
The Shepherd's Inn, a Bed and Breakfast run by the Pastor's wife, fills up with people who all carry with them pain or unhappiness hoping to make a new start for the holidays. When a young couple arrive in a brightly painted but broken down bus with no money the people are skeptical. When the bus parks across from the church, right in front of the Shepherd's Inn they expect someone to do something about it. The Pastor's mid-week sermon stirs some people to action. It is based on Hebrews 13:1-2. "Stay on good terms with each other; held together by love. Be ready with a meal or a bed when it's needed. Why, some have extended hospitality to angels without ever knowing it." Thanks to a bossy, difficult old woman who drops in from nowhere, a stranger who is about to give birth and a live nativity the town begins to change. The don't get want they want, but they do get what they need.
I will read this story again next year. At a time when we can all become a little frantic it is good to slow down and think about the true meaning of Christmas. This book will help. A digital format for Nook or Kindle will run under $5.00 but I really don't think you will regret the purchase or forget the book.
The Shepherd's Inn, a Bed and Breakfast run by the Pastor's wife, fills up with people who all carry with them pain or unhappiness hoping to make a new start for the holidays. When a young couple arrive in a brightly painted but broken down bus with no money the people are skeptical. When the bus parks across from the church, right in front of the Shepherd's Inn they expect someone to do something about it. The Pastor's mid-week sermon stirs some people to action. It is based on Hebrews 13:1-2. "Stay on good terms with each other; held together by love. Be ready with a meal or a bed when it's needed. Why, some have extended hospitality to angels without ever knowing it." Thanks to a bossy, difficult old woman who drops in from nowhere, a stranger who is about to give birth and a live nativity the town begins to change. The don't get want they want, but they do get what they need.
I will read this story again next year. At a time when we can all become a little frantic it is good to slow down and think about the true meaning of Christmas. This book will help. A digital format for Nook or Kindle will run under $5.00 but I really don't think you will regret the purchase or forget the book.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Day 19 Christmas Story
It seems that for a happy and holy season Christmas seems to encourage literature steeped in sadness. Is it because this is a time to review our place in this world and the impact we have made upon misery and suffering? Or, is it because so many of the traditional stories come from the early 1900's or before?
Bird's Christmas Carol by Kate Douglas Wiggin is no exception. You may remember Wiggin as the author of Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm. I know that is why I chose to read it this year.
Carol is born on Christmas Eve, her name comes from the song her mother hears from the church next door. From the beginning Carol is a happy child who cheers everyone. She wants to share her toys, food and cheerfulness, she delights in the happiness of others. As she grows Carol becomes weak and frail but she continues to reach out to others by loaning her books to children in hospitals and cheering her family members. As Christmas approaches Carol plans a very special Christmas for the poor children she enjoys watching across the alley.
This is a very short and inspiring book which used to be read to school children in the early 1900's when moral tales were popular. While too sad for the very young, school age children would still benefit from Wiggin's message.
As my holiday gift to you I have tried to highlight stories you may indulge in. Once again copies can be found free across the internet however there are also hardcover and paperback copies that would make a wonderful gift as a new tradition in your family. Once again Librivox has an audio download and several book dealers have free ebook downloads. Project Gutenberg, which is a wonderful organization, has it as well.
Bird's Christmas Carol by Kate Douglas Wiggin is no exception. You may remember Wiggin as the author of Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm. I know that is why I chose to read it this year.
Carol is born on Christmas Eve, her name comes from the song her mother hears from the church next door. From the beginning Carol is a happy child who cheers everyone. She wants to share her toys, food and cheerfulness, she delights in the happiness of others. As she grows Carol becomes weak and frail but she continues to reach out to others by loaning her books to children in hospitals and cheering her family members. As Christmas approaches Carol plans a very special Christmas for the poor children she enjoys watching across the alley.
This is a very short and inspiring book which used to be read to school children in the early 1900's when moral tales were popular. While too sad for the very young, school age children would still benefit from Wiggin's message.
As my holiday gift to you I have tried to highlight stories you may indulge in. Once again copies can be found free across the internet however there are also hardcover and paperback copies that would make a wonderful gift as a new tradition in your family. Once again Librivox has an audio download and several book dealers have free ebook downloads. Project Gutenberg, which is a wonderful organization, has it as well.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Day 18 Christmas Story
William John Locke was a very popular writer in the early 1900's in England was well as the United States with three New York Times bestseller to his credit. His holiday tale, A Christmas Mystery: The Story of Three Wise Men was published in 1910.
Three men, each famous in their fields, meet in front of a book stall at Paddington Station while waiting for their train. Being acquaintances they greet each other and enquire as to why and where they are traveling. Sir Angus McCurdie, a physicist, Professor Biggleswade who specializes in Assyriology, and the Right Honourable Viscount Doyne discover they are all going to he Christmas guests in an out of the way village at the Deverill home. Each man has reason to want to be out of touch over the holidays but are not anxious to celebrate in any way. They share a dread of the long trip ahead of them.
Sharing a carriage on the train and later to the home seems logical so they proceed. Along the way these distinguished men encounter events that change their plans and slow their trip. Each time there is a sudden chillness in the air and a faint "beating of wings". They end up on Christmas Eve in a shack where a series of circumstances change their lives forever.
You will be entertained by A Christmas Mystery: The Story of Three Wise Men and then have something to ponder after reading this old story. It is an easy evening read as it is only about fifty pages long. It is available free in digital form almost everywhere. An audio version can be found here, it can be found in several formats here and as a download for Kindle.
Three men, each famous in their fields, meet in front of a book stall at Paddington Station while waiting for their train. Being acquaintances they greet each other and enquire as to why and where they are traveling. Sir Angus McCurdie, a physicist, Professor Biggleswade who specializes in Assyriology, and the Right Honourable Viscount Doyne discover they are all going to he Christmas guests in an out of the way village at the Deverill home. Each man has reason to want to be out of touch over the holidays but are not anxious to celebrate in any way. They share a dread of the long trip ahead of them.
Sharing a carriage on the train and later to the home seems logical so they proceed. Along the way these distinguished men encounter events that change their plans and slow their trip. Each time there is a sudden chillness in the air and a faint "beating of wings". They end up on Christmas Eve in a shack where a series of circumstances change their lives forever.
You will be entertained by A Christmas Mystery: The Story of Three Wise Men and then have something to ponder after reading this old story. It is an easy evening read as it is only about fifty pages long. It is available free in digital form almost everywhere. An audio version can be found here, it can be found in several formats here and as a download for Kindle.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Day 17 Christmas Story
A Very Holly Christmas is a short story sequel to On Strike for Christmas by Sheila Roberts.
In On Strike for Christmas the women go on strike to get the men and kids to help with all the preparations for Christmas. It is now a year later and the men and boys still have the holiday spirit. Of course, they want to do it their way. Over-decorated yards and anatomically correct gingerbread men abound. Sharon finds, and reads, a few pages of her husband's latest novel which is about a man killing his wife for Christmas. She realizes the strike went too far.
This short story is delightful and just the right length for a hectic weekend. There have been some problems with the Kindle copy of this short story. A bonus chapter from The Nine Lives of Christmas is included at the end but when the book is opened it goes to the beginning of the bonus. All you have to do is go back manually to "After that Christmas Strike....."
A short, light read for free is worth the slight inconvenience. If you like A Very Holly Christmas Shelia Roberts has several light Christmas reads you may want to check out. You can get it from on the Nook or from iTunes.
In On Strike for Christmas the women go on strike to get the men and kids to help with all the preparations for Christmas. It is now a year later and the men and boys still have the holiday spirit. Of course, they want to do it their way. Over-decorated yards and anatomically correct gingerbread men abound. Sharon finds, and reads, a few pages of her husband's latest novel which is about a man killing his wife for Christmas. She realizes the strike went too far.
This short story is delightful and just the right length for a hectic weekend. There have been some problems with the Kindle copy of this short story. A bonus chapter from The Nine Lives of Christmas is included at the end but when the book is opened it goes to the beginning of the bonus. All you have to do is go back manually to "After that Christmas Strike....."
A short, light read for free is worth the slight inconvenience. If you like A Very Holly Christmas Shelia Roberts has several light Christmas reads you may want to check out. You can get it from on the Nook or from iTunes.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Day 16 Christmas Story
In my Christmas world Fridays seem to be very hectic as the holiday gets closer. In respect for that I am bringing you some Christmas poetry from some authors you will recognize. They can all be found in one volume, 50 Best Loved Christmas Stories and Poems for All Ages edited by Christopher Hong.
Christmas Trees by Robert Frost is not the classical "decorated tree with children gathered around". Rather it is the farmer's view of his trees. Frost has always been able to bring a new perspective to me.
The Magi by William Butler Yeats is new to me although there was a time years ago when I read a lot of his work. This very short poem will make you pause to wonder longer than it took to read it.
The Oxen by Thomas Hardy. Again, a familiar author but not a familiar poem. With an almost melancholy feel this poems makes me yearn for the innocent acceptance of that which we cannot see.
A Christmas Carol by G. K. Chesterson. I have always associated Chesterson with essays however he did convert to Catholicism and this poem is fitting of that belief.
Christmas Bells by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Many people will know this as a Christmas carol rather than a poem and can sing along. At this time of year it is well worth reading, or singing, again.
50 Best Loved Christmas Stories and Poems for All Ages is available in a very nice volume. The digital download is under three dollars and includes many classic stories. The last three poems can also be read online at Christmas Poetry at no cost.
Christmas Trees by Robert Frost is not the classical "decorated tree with children gathered around". Rather it is the farmer's view of his trees. Frost has always been able to bring a new perspective to me.
The Magi by William Butler Yeats is new to me although there was a time years ago when I read a lot of his work. This very short poem will make you pause to wonder longer than it took to read it.
The Oxen by Thomas Hardy. Again, a familiar author but not a familiar poem. With an almost melancholy feel this poems makes me yearn for the innocent acceptance of that which we cannot see.
A Christmas Carol by G. K. Chesterson. I have always associated Chesterson with essays however he did convert to Catholicism and this poem is fitting of that belief.
Christmas Bells by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Many people will know this as a Christmas carol rather than a poem and can sing along. At this time of year it is well worth reading, or singing, again.
50 Best Loved Christmas Stories and Poems for All Ages is available in a very nice volume. The digital download is under three dollars and includes many classic stories. The last three poems can also be read online at Christmas Poetry at no cost.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Day 15 Christmas Story
The Christmas Child, written in 1909 by Hesba Stretton (Sarah Smith) is the selection for today. Stretton is was one of the 19th century's most popular writers of moral tales and semi-religious stories in England. She was an associate of Charles Dickens who is often linked in our minds with Christmas.
The child, in this instance, is not the Christ Child. It is the tale of a spinster, Priscilla, who has run a farm with the help of the family's loyal servant Nathan. She is anti-marriage and has found happiness in her work and raising the niece she adopted. Rhoda, the niece, is pretty so Priscilla has worked to keep her away from the men of the community. Priscilla hopes to provide for Rhoda so that she need not seek marriage as a livelihood.
When Priscilla's grand-niece is orphaned she comes to join the family at the farm. Joan is young and an emotional burden upon Priscilla although Rhoda enjoys the companionship and someone to care for. The family celebrates Christmas not long after Joan arrives. At mid-night the girls go out into the dark stable to see if the Christ Child will be asleep in their manger. They agree to come each year, sing a carol and hope that the Christ Child will come to bless them.
When Rhoda disappears the family falls apart. Priscilla refuses to leave her room and Joan is neglected. Nathan, a religious man, tries to help Joan and Priscilla but is not effective.
Again Christmas arrives. Joan, who still holds a child's faith goes once more to the stable and sings her carol. At the manger she finds a baby. What happens next is happy, sad, and heartwarming.
Paper copies of this book are available but it is also readily available to read online or download to your computer or ereader. For online reading I suggest Gutenberg or Free Fiction Books. Downloads are available from Gutenberg, and Amazon. Several choices and all for free. There is also a 2003 movie of this moving old tale.
The child, in this instance, is not the Christ Child. It is the tale of a spinster, Priscilla, who has run a farm with the help of the family's loyal servant Nathan. She is anti-marriage and has found happiness in her work and raising the niece she adopted. Rhoda, the niece, is pretty so Priscilla has worked to keep her away from the men of the community. Priscilla hopes to provide for Rhoda so that she need not seek marriage as a livelihood.
When Priscilla's grand-niece is orphaned she comes to join the family at the farm. Joan is young and an emotional burden upon Priscilla although Rhoda enjoys the companionship and someone to care for. The family celebrates Christmas not long after Joan arrives. At mid-night the girls go out into the dark stable to see if the Christ Child will be asleep in their manger. They agree to come each year, sing a carol and hope that the Christ Child will come to bless them.
When Rhoda disappears the family falls apart. Priscilla refuses to leave her room and Joan is neglected. Nathan, a religious man, tries to help Joan and Priscilla but is not effective.
Again Christmas arrives. Joan, who still holds a child's faith goes once more to the stable and sings her carol. At the manger she finds a baby. What happens next is happy, sad, and heartwarming.
Paper copies of this book are available but it is also readily available to read online or download to your computer or ereader. For online reading I suggest Gutenberg or Free Fiction Books. Downloads are available from Gutenberg, and Amazon. Several choices and all for free. There is also a 2003 movie of this moving old tale.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Day 14 Christmas Story
The Burglar and The Blizzard: A Christmas Story is my pick for today. Written by Alice Duer Miller in 1914 it has the period feel that seems to fit so well with long winter nights. To my knowledge she wrote primarily feminist books but it is not evident in this story.
This book has a lot going for it. It is funny, engaging, a heart vs. common sense theme and a wonderful ending. The basic plot is that three people find themselves stranded in a country home during a blizzard. First is the homeowner, Geoffrey, who is a millionaire. The burglar, McVay, who is caught when Geoffrey goes to check on the property due to a series of burglaries in the neighborhood. And McVay's sister who is rescued from a nearby shack when Geoffrey learns she is out there alone in the cold. The two men try not to alarm the woman by letting her know McVay is a burglar. They talk with hidden meaning and hide McVay's prisoner status until the storm lets up. This is not your ordinary plot and the ending will surprise and warm you.
The second best thing about this book is that while the paper copies of this book sell for a great deal of money it is digitized. Ebook copies are available in several formats including pdf downloads, read online copies and for ereaders. Try Feedbooks, Read Central and Share Ware Ebook. As we approach the holidays price and availability are both important. The Burglar and The Blizzard: A Christmas Story would be a good winter read after the holidays as well.
This book has a lot going for it. It is funny, engaging, a heart vs. common sense theme and a wonderful ending. The basic plot is that three people find themselves stranded in a country home during a blizzard. First is the homeowner, Geoffrey, who is a millionaire. The burglar, McVay, who is caught when Geoffrey goes to check on the property due to a series of burglaries in the neighborhood. And McVay's sister who is rescued from a nearby shack when Geoffrey learns she is out there alone in the cold. The two men try not to alarm the woman by letting her know McVay is a burglar. They talk with hidden meaning and hide McVay's prisoner status until the storm lets up. This is not your ordinary plot and the ending will surprise and warm you.
The second best thing about this book is that while the paper copies of this book sell for a great deal of money it is digitized. Ebook copies are available in several formats including pdf downloads, read online copies and for ereaders. Try Feedbooks, Read Central and Share Ware Ebook. As we approach the holidays price and availability are both important. The Burglar and The Blizzard: A Christmas Story would be a good winter read after the holidays as well.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Day 13 Christmas Story
A wonderful period piece with a beautiful message is my offering today. The Christmas Angel (1910) by Abbie Farwell Brown brings our focus down to the importance of the holiday and will remind you of A Christmas Carol.
It is Christmas Eve but Miss Terry is bitter and alone living in her childhood home. Her brother has sent a note hoping to see her, but she has refused. She sits before the fireplace on this special night sorting an old box of toys while her servant goes out to see the candlelit homes and hear the carolers. Many of the treasures of her past are discarded into the fire. Some of the toys, however, she uses to conduct an experiment on the state of human greed. One by one she places them outside and hides behind the curtains to see what happens. Each of these toys is taken away in some manner reinforcing her low regard for her fellow man.
Despite a resolve to rid her home and memory of these old childhood toys she cannot toss the pink Christmas angel into the fire. Soon the angel speaks to Miss Terry and takes her to see what has become of the cast off toys. Her icy heart melts and she is ready to celebrate Christmas in some surprising ways.
This story is positive, although the beginning is sad, and well worth an evening's read, I highly recommend it. This short story, 104 pages, is free for the Kindle or to read on your computer. It can also be found on Google Books.
It is Christmas Eve but Miss Terry is bitter and alone living in her childhood home. Her brother has sent a note hoping to see her, but she has refused. She sits before the fireplace on this special night sorting an old box of toys while her servant goes out to see the candlelit homes and hear the carolers. Many of the treasures of her past are discarded into the fire. Some of the toys, however, she uses to conduct an experiment on the state of human greed. One by one she places them outside and hides behind the curtains to see what happens. Each of these toys is taken away in some manner reinforcing her low regard for her fellow man.
Despite a resolve to rid her home and memory of these old childhood toys she cannot toss the pink Christmas angel into the fire. Soon the angel speaks to Miss Terry and takes her to see what has become of the cast off toys. Her icy heart melts and she is ready to celebrate Christmas in some surprising ways.
This story is positive, although the beginning is sad, and well worth an evening's read, I highly recommend it. This short story, 104 pages, is free for the Kindle or to read on your computer. It can also be found on Google Books.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Day 12 Christmas Story
Today I am suggesting a mystery, Murder Trims the Tree by Deb Baker. It is one of her Gertie Johnson Mysteries.
Gertie and her friends, all amateur detectives, have been sentenced to community service for interfering with a previous legal matter. They choose to do their service at a local assisted living facility, at Christmas time, thinking it will be fun and easy and because they are running out of time. Gertie also hopes that her mother-in-law will like the place so much that she will want to stay. A friend of the mother-in-law, Earl, is even a resident there.
When they arrive the director is less than pleased to see them, especially Fred who is Gertie's dog. First a blizzard hits, making it impossible for them to leave, then the phone lines go out. A resident tells them that people are dying but she is not taken seriously--until the director disappears. After a wonderful lunch almost everyone falls into a drugged sleep, even Fred. Things go down hill from there. You won't regret the time you spend reading this humorous mystery for the holidays.
Murder Trims the Tree has some interesting characters and is a fun read. It has gotten good reviews and the price is right. Digital copies are running around $1.00. Blacklist offers it in Nook, Kindle and Smashwords formats. It can also be purchased at Barnes & Noble or Amazon.
Gertie and her friends, all amateur detectives, have been sentenced to community service for interfering with a previous legal matter. They choose to do their service at a local assisted living facility, at Christmas time, thinking it will be fun and easy and because they are running out of time. Gertie also hopes that her mother-in-law will like the place so much that she will want to stay. A friend of the mother-in-law, Earl, is even a resident there.
When they arrive the director is less than pleased to see them, especially Fred who is Gertie's dog. First a blizzard hits, making it impossible for them to leave, then the phone lines go out. A resident tells them that people are dying but she is not taken seriously--until the director disappears. After a wonderful lunch almost everyone falls into a drugged sleep, even Fred. Things go down hill from there. You won't regret the time you spend reading this humorous mystery for the holidays.
Murder Trims the Tree has some interesting characters and is a fun read. It has gotten good reviews and the price is right. Digital copies are running around $1.00. Blacklist offers it in Nook, Kindle and Smashwords formats. It can also be purchased at Barnes & Noble or Amazon.
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Day 11 Christmas Story
Today's story is The First Christmas Tree by Henry van Dyke. One of my favorite 1880's authors,Van Dyke was a minister who wrote stories to read to his congregation. He presented this one for the first time in 1897.
Set in the year 722 the main characters Prince Gregor and Winfried of England set out to convert the pagan peoples of the German forests on Christmas Eve. Winfried, later known as Boniface, are able to destroy "Thor's Oak" where the people are worshipping. Winfried shows them a fir tree, calling it the tree of the Christ Child, for their new worship of the Christ Child.
Van Dyke was known to have done research for his writing and it shows in his descriptions of medieval Germany. Fans of history will find this book a delight to read. The time period enhances a wonderful tale. If you enjoyed The Other Wise Man you will enjoy this book as well.
This text is under 100 pages in most formats so is easily read in one day. There are free downloads as ebooks from Project Gutenberg, Google Books, the Sony estore and Kindle. A wonderful audio book is available for free as well. It lasts about 55 minutes.
Set in the year 722 the main characters Prince Gregor and Winfried of England set out to convert the pagan peoples of the German forests on Christmas Eve. Winfried, later known as Boniface, are able to destroy "Thor's Oak" where the people are worshipping. Winfried shows them a fir tree, calling it the tree of the Christ Child, for their new worship of the Christ Child.
Van Dyke was known to have done research for his writing and it shows in his descriptions of medieval Germany. Fans of history will find this book a delight to read. The time period enhances a wonderful tale. If you enjoyed The Other Wise Man you will enjoy this book as well.
This text is under 100 pages in most formats so is easily read in one day. There are free downloads as ebooks from Project Gutenberg, Google Books, the Sony estore and Kindle. A wonderful audio book is available for free as well. It lasts about 55 minutes.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Day 10 Christmas Story
Recently I have attended, and talked to people who have attended, Christmas programs. Having organized many programs over the years I appreciate almost anthing that happens on stage. I understand costume failures, forgotten lines and that small children can't distinguish between singing loudly and simply yelling out the words to a carol. Naturally that makes me a fan of Barbara Robinson's book The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.
The story centers around a family of six kids, the Hurdman's, who have pretty much raised themselves since their father left. Their mother works two shifts so the kids lack supervision and discipline. When the kids learn that the Sunday School serves refreshments they are ready to join. The cussing, smoking bullies push and threaten their way into all the key roles at the upcoming Christmas Program.
Although there are many problems along the way the program is charming and touching. The true meaning of Christmas rings loud and clear in this story of redemption to the Hurdman's audience as well as the book's readers.
Robinson originally published this in McCall's magazine, it is short enough to read to your children this weekend. Or, read it to yourself when your own Christmas program gets the best of you.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever comes in many formats including ebooks, picture book, paperback or hardcover, audio ebook and a DVD starring Loretta Swift. Every library I have ever been in has copies of this Christmas classic. It even comes as a play script written by Robinson that you could use for next year's Christmas program.
The story centers around a family of six kids, the Hurdman's, who have pretty much raised themselves since their father left. Their mother works two shifts so the kids lack supervision and discipline. When the kids learn that the Sunday School serves refreshments they are ready to join. The cussing, smoking bullies push and threaten their way into all the key roles at the upcoming Christmas Program.
Although there are many problems along the way the program is charming and touching. The true meaning of Christmas rings loud and clear in this story of redemption to the Hurdman's audience as well as the book's readers.
Robinson originally published this in McCall's magazine, it is short enough to read to your children this weekend. Or, read it to yourself when your own Christmas program gets the best of you.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever comes in many formats including ebooks, picture book, paperback or hardcover, audio ebook and a DVD starring Loretta Swift. Every library I have ever been in has copies of this Christmas classic. It even comes as a play script written by Robinson that you could use for next year's Christmas program.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Day 9 Christmas Story
Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus has stood the test of time. In fact, I was pleased to see Virgina in the Macy's parade on Thanksgiving morning. It was a great reminder to read this to my grandson when the time is right.
This is the true story of eight year old Virginia O'Hanlon who in September 1897 wrote to a New York newspaper, The Sun, asking if Santa Claus was real. A staff member, named Francis Pharcellus Church replied with a stirring affirmation. That letter has become the most reprinted editorial of all time.
There are countless formats for reading Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus. Amazon and Barnes and Noble both have digital and regular books. Goodreads has a history of the editorial as well as the actual text. There are also picture books, movies and Youtube videos out there.
However, my personal choice can be found at Newseum. There you will find the editorial, a picture of the newspaper's header for September 21, 1897, the newspaper clipping and a photo of Francis Church.
This site wraps a wonderful, heart warming story inside a piece of history. What more could you ask for this holiday season?
This is the true story of eight year old Virginia O'Hanlon who in September 1897 wrote to a New York newspaper, The Sun, asking if Santa Claus was real. A staff member, named Francis Pharcellus Church replied with a stirring affirmation. That letter has become the most reprinted editorial of all time.
There are countless formats for reading Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus. Amazon and Barnes and Noble both have digital and regular books. Goodreads has a history of the editorial as well as the actual text. There are also picture books, movies and Youtube videos out there.
However, my personal choice can be found at Newseum. There you will find the editorial, a picture of the newspaper's header for September 21, 1897, the newspaper clipping and a photo of Francis Church.
This site wraps a wonderful, heart warming story inside a piece of history. What more could you ask for this holiday season?
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Day 8 Christmas Story
Award winners are not always winners in my book however Mary's Son: A Tale of Christmas by Darryl Nyznyk gets my vote, too. Published in 2010 this book has won three Mom's Choice Awards: Gold Adult Fiction/Lit, Gold Inspirational/Motivational Juvenile and Gold Inspirational/Motivational Young Adult.
This book has something for everyone; a modern day Christmas story, the Biblical Christmas story and a time traveling Nicholas (Santa Claus). Before that scares you away let me say that the story is engaging. Two teens poor Jared and rich Sarah are dealing with anger and the loss of a parent. Nicholas turns up in each of their lives then brings them together to teach them the true meaning of the season. When all else fails he takes them back to Bethlehem to witness the first Christmas in person.
Santa and two teens traveling to Bethlehem may seem far fetched, but fantasy is very popular with the young adult crowd. Reactions to Nicholas and their families seem believable. The lesson they learn comes through but the story does not get excessively "preachy".
Although not a short story, at 176 pages Mary's Son: A Tale of Christmas reads quickly. I recommend it for your own holiday reading or to share with a younger reader. Find it for under a dollar as a Kindle download to your reader, phone or computer. It is also available in hardcover.
This book has something for everyone; a modern day Christmas story, the Biblical Christmas story and a time traveling Nicholas (Santa Claus). Before that scares you away let me say that the story is engaging. Two teens poor Jared and rich Sarah are dealing with anger and the loss of a parent. Nicholas turns up in each of their lives then brings them together to teach them the true meaning of the season. When all else fails he takes them back to Bethlehem to witness the first Christmas in person.
Santa and two teens traveling to Bethlehem may seem far fetched, but fantasy is very popular with the young adult crowd. Reactions to Nicholas and their families seem believable. The lesson they learn comes through but the story does not get excessively "preachy".
Although not a short story, at 176 pages Mary's Son: A Tale of Christmas reads quickly. I recommend it for your own holiday reading or to share with a younger reader. Find it for under a dollar as a Kindle download to your reader, phone or computer. It is also available in hardcover.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Day 7 Christmas Story
Today I offer up another old favorite, The Little Match Girl, by Hans Christian Andersen. I remember this story from childhood but did not really appreciate how sad it was until I had children and tried to read it to them with a cracking voice. Now that I have grandchildren I wouldn't even attempt it out loud. This story is well worth the tears.
This classic tale is about a little girl who is sent out in the freezing weather each day to sell small bundles of matches on the street corners. On the last night of the year she seeks shelter from the cold and strikes a match to warm herself. In the light she sees visions including her grandmother. She strikes one match after another to maintain the vision of the only person who ever loved her.
Although not truly a Christmas story, The Little Match Girl is found in several anthologies such 10 Best Loved Christmas Classic Stories for All Ages and Hans Andersen's Fairy Tales: A Selection (Oxford World's Classics) both free on Kindle. You can also read it free in one file from Daily Lit. There have been a couple of movies based on this winter classic.
This classic tale is about a little girl who is sent out in the freezing weather each day to sell small bundles of matches on the street corners. On the last night of the year she seeks shelter from the cold and strikes a match to warm herself. In the light she sees visions including her grandmother. She strikes one match after another to maintain the vision of the only person who ever loved her.
Although not truly a Christmas story, The Little Match Girl is found in several anthologies such 10 Best Loved Christmas Classic Stories for All Ages and Hans Andersen's Fairy Tales: A Selection (Oxford World's Classics) both free on Kindle. You can also read it free in one file from Daily Lit. There have been a couple of movies based on this winter classic.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Day 6 Christmas Story
I first read The Story of the Other Wise Man by Henry van Dyke last Christmas. Just one reading made it my favorite annual "must read". Written in 1896 this story is still meaningful and engaging.
This tale is about Artaban a Zoroastrian scholar. Knowing that the stars will show the coming of the King he watches and waits. When he sees the sign in the sky he sets out to meet with other magi, or wise men, to follow the star together. During his journey he repeatedly comes across people who need his assistance. Although his deepest desire is to attend to the King his moral convictions make him choose otherwise. Throughout his life he helps others always believing that he he has failed his Lord.
The traditional religious message is supplemented with Bible passages throughout many parts of van Dyke's tale. The story spans thirty-three years and ends with the crucifixion.
There are a lot of options for this story. It is available as hardcover and paperback, it is free on Kindle and can be read free on Google Books. You can also read it free here. The Story of the Other Wise Man can also be listened to for free from Librivox.
This tale is about Artaban a Zoroastrian scholar. Knowing that the stars will show the coming of the King he watches and waits. When he sees the sign in the sky he sets out to meet with other magi, or wise men, to follow the star together. During his journey he repeatedly comes across people who need his assistance. Although his deepest desire is to attend to the King his moral convictions make him choose otherwise. Throughout his life he helps others always believing that he he has failed his Lord.
The traditional religious message is supplemented with Bible passages throughout many parts of van Dyke's tale. The story spans thirty-three years and ends with the crucifixion.
There are a lot of options for this story. It is available as hardcover and paperback, it is free on Kindle and can be read free on Google Books. You can also read it free here. The Story of the Other Wise Man can also be listened to for free from Librivox.
Monday, December 5, 2011
Day 5 Christmas Story
The Fir Tree by Hans Christian Andersen is today's Christmas story. Another classic this story, origionally published in 1884, has stood the test of time.
Like many of us, the small fir tree dreams of growing up and becoming something grand. He fails to see the beauty and comfort all around him. As he continues to grow, he continues to dream of a better fate until one day he is chopped down and taken away to become a Christmas tree is a grand home. His dreams have come to pass--or have they.
This "be careful what you wish for" tale can be found in stores and at a variety of online sources. You can read it online at the Literature Network, free on Kindle as Fairy Tales of Hans C. Andersen, for Nook as part of a paid collection, libraries and book stores. There are several versions on the market, some in picture book format.
Like many of us, the small fir tree dreams of growing up and becoming something grand. He fails to see the beauty and comfort all around him. As he continues to grow, he continues to dream of a better fate until one day he is chopped down and taken away to become a Christmas tree is a grand home. His dreams have come to pass--or have they.
This "be careful what you wish for" tale can be found in stores and at a variety of online sources. You can read it online at the Literature Network, free on Kindle as Fairy Tales of Hans C. Andersen, for Nook as part of a paid collection, libraries and book stores. There are several versions on the market, some in picture book format.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Day 4 Christmas Story
Today's Christmas story, set in California, is unique and inspiring. Richard Taylor offers up a wonderful tale of a family, their Grandfather and the real meaning of life in Evergreen A Christmas Tale.
The story is told by the eight year old grandson. As an aging adult he tells how his family was healed during a difficult time in their family when Grandfather visits for Christmas. Although Grandfather is dying he has much more to offer his family than a mere story about how the first Christmas tree came to be. As he spins his tale the impact of this remarkable story heals then goes on to survive not only the teller but other family members and future generations as well. I found it heart warming that sometimes those who seem to have the least are capable of giving the most.
The tale is about nomadic people who travel south as the ice and snow move down creating a diverse cultural element that adds a great deal to the story. A beautiful glittering evergreen tree is central to the survival of the main characters.
This book is short, readable and widely available Try Nook, Kindle, Smashwords, Google Books or iTunes books for your copy. If you prefer to read on your computer or have a generic reader it can also be downloaded as a PDF or EPub file. Most are free.
The story is told by the eight year old grandson. As an aging adult he tells how his family was healed during a difficult time in their family when Grandfather visits for Christmas. Although Grandfather is dying he has much more to offer his family than a mere story about how the first Christmas tree came to be. As he spins his tale the impact of this remarkable story heals then goes on to survive not only the teller but other family members and future generations as well. I found it heart warming that sometimes those who seem to have the least are capable of giving the most.
The tale is about nomadic people who travel south as the ice and snow move down creating a diverse cultural element that adds a great deal to the story. A beautiful glittering evergreen tree is central to the survival of the main characters.
This book is short, readable and widely available Try Nook, Kindle, Smashwords, Google Books or iTunes books for your copy. If you prefer to read on your computer or have a generic reader it can also be downloaded as a PDF or EPub file. Most are free.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Day 3 Christmas Story
Today's story is a true Christmas classic. The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry was published in 1906 but never grows old. O. Henry was the pen name of William Sydney Porter (1862-1910). He wrote many classic short stories including The Ransom of Red Chief which many of us read in school.
If you haven't read this story you are in for a treat. Della and her husband Jim are newlyweds with little money but a strong sense of love and sacrifice. As Christmas approaches they choose the perfect gifts for each other, giving their gifts is an ironic twist. I have read this story every Christmas for years now and still feel the jolt of truth at the end of the tale. My daughter remarked that if I included only one Christmas story this month it should be The Gift of the Magi. It will have that impact on you as well.
The Gift of the Magi is available in book format, as part of many different Christmas collections, free on Kindle or through Daily Lit. If you haven't tried Daily Lit I highly recommend it. After a free sign-up you can have stories emailed in one or more daily portions. A $.99 Kindle collection 10 Best Loved Christmas Classic Stories for All Ages includes today's selection as well as many other well known classics.
If you haven't read this story you are in for a treat. Della and her husband Jim are newlyweds with little money but a strong sense of love and sacrifice. As Christmas approaches they choose the perfect gifts for each other, giving their gifts is an ironic twist. I have read this story every Christmas for years now and still feel the jolt of truth at the end of the tale. My daughter remarked that if I included only one Christmas story this month it should be The Gift of the Magi. It will have that impact on you as well.
The Gift of the Magi is available in book format, as part of many different Christmas collections, free on Kindle or through Daily Lit. If you haven't tried Daily Lit I highly recommend it. After a free sign-up you can have stories emailed in one or more daily portions. A $.99 Kindle collection 10 Best Loved Christmas Classic Stories for All Ages includes today's selection as well as many other well known classics.
Friday, December 2, 2011
Day 2 Christmas Story
Today is December second. If I am lucky this means I have advanced the various calendars in my home to the correct month. Then the panic often begins to seep in.
Are you already wondering how you will ever be ready for Christmas? Do your friends and family think you are involved in too much and spread yourself too thin, especially at this time of the year? I know just how you feel.
My suggestion is to kick back for the weekend and read a book--not just any book but Unwrapping Christmas by Lori Copeland. This book will not be on the New York Times book lists or win a Pulitzer Prize. At this time of the year it could be much more valuable to you than any weighty award winner.
Lori Copeland may help you to see yourself in the main character, Rose. She has a problem saying "no" and believes it is her mission in life to create the perfect holiday for everyone else. Does this sound familiar? It did to me. Rose suffers through pain and personal suffering on her way to learning how to set priorities. There is enough humor in this book to keep you from crawling under the covers and refusing to leave the house, but it will make you think. It is easy to get caught up in a process and lose the goal.
I read this book for the first time last Christmas and I think about its message every time I consider taking on one more worthwhile cause, especially in December. It is so tempting to try and create a perfect Christmas for everyone around you.
This book runs about 160 pages so it is will fit into your Friday night or weekend schedule this early in the month. Look for Unwrapping Christmas for Kindle, as a hardback through bookstores or at Google Books. I think it could be a big hit as a made-for-TV movie.
Tomorrow's book is a short and readily available classic that you just must read this holiday season.
Are you already wondering how you will ever be ready for Christmas? Do your friends and family think you are involved in too much and spread yourself too thin, especially at this time of the year? I know just how you feel.
My suggestion is to kick back for the weekend and read a book--not just any book but Unwrapping Christmas by Lori Copeland. This book will not be on the New York Times book lists or win a Pulitzer Prize. At this time of the year it could be much more valuable to you than any weighty award winner.
Lori Copeland may help you to see yourself in the main character, Rose. She has a problem saying "no" and believes it is her mission in life to create the perfect holiday for everyone else. Does this sound familiar? It did to me. Rose suffers through pain and personal suffering on her way to learning how to set priorities. There is enough humor in this book to keep you from crawling under the covers and refusing to leave the house, but it will make you think. It is easy to get caught up in a process and lose the goal.
I read this book for the first time last Christmas and I think about its message every time I consider taking on one more worthwhile cause, especially in December. It is so tempting to try and create a perfect Christmas for everyone around you.
This book runs about 160 pages so it is will fit into your Friday night or weekend schedule this early in the month. Look for Unwrapping Christmas for Kindle, as a hardback through bookstores or at Google Books. I think it could be a big hit as a made-for-TV movie.
Tomorrow's book is a short and readily available classic that you just must read this holiday season.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Day 1 Christmas Story
Today is the first day that I will willingly listen to Christmas music. I just feel like December 1st is soon enough and I want to enjoy the music, not dread it. In celebration of Christmas music today I offer up a collection of stories behind some of the Christmas songs we all know and love. The book is Stories Behind the Best Loved Songs of Christmas by Ace Collins. Although published by Zondervan it contains secular as well as religious tunes. It is available as a hardback or for Kindle.
A total of 31 songs are featured, enough to read one a day for the whole month of December if you choose. You could also use the story along with a song that you sing together as a family or teach to your children. I appreciated the text of the songs included in this book, while I still remember the melody the words have dimmed through the years.
One example from the book is the story of Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, a well known song in the late 40's and early 50's. It is not quite as popular today as it was when it was featured in the movie Meet Me in St. Louis at the end of World War II. Judy Garland, who sang the song in the film, pushed the writers to make a more positive statement in the song because of her experiences singing to G. I.'s. They did the re-write and the song became famous.
Other songs include: Angels We Have Heard On High, Jingle Bells, O Holy Night, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and one of my personal favorites Silver Bells.
A total of 31 songs are featured, enough to read one a day for the whole month of December if you choose. You could also use the story along with a song that you sing together as a family or teach to your children. I appreciated the text of the songs included in this book, while I still remember the melody the words have dimmed through the years.
One example from the book is the story of Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, a well known song in the late 40's and early 50's. It is not quite as popular today as it was when it was featured in the movie Meet Me in St. Louis at the end of World War II. Judy Garland, who sang the song in the film, pushed the writers to make a more positive statement in the song because of her experiences singing to G. I.'s. They did the re-write and the song became famous.
Other songs include: Angels We Have Heard On High, Jingle Bells, O Holy Night, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and one of my personal favorites Silver Bells.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Give Thanks
I want to wish everyone the Thanksgiving they enjoy most whether it be a game of football in the backyard or a day of lively conversation with multiple generations of your family.
While the focus is still on thankfulness I would like to recommend two books to carry that feeling well into 2012. John Kralik's 365 Thank Yous and Deborah Norville's Thank You Power: Making the Science of Gratitude Work for You are both excellent books.
Kralik's book is the story of how gratefulness changed his life through daily thanks usually in the form of a written thank you. Since I enjoy writing this concept appeals to me. Feeling grateful toward others is one thing, expressing that gratefulness shares that positive energy, but actually sending a note extends that feeling longer. The first appendix to 365 Thank Yous is a guide to writing thank-you notes. Kralik's notes were not always sent for physical gifts so this advice is helpful. He also makes a case for sending real paper and pen notes of thanks rather than email notes. Much of the focus in Kralik's book is how he turned his life around through gratefulness and how we can do the same. Having been on the receiving end of some special and heartfelt notes by students over the years I can attest to the amazing power it can have over the receiver as well.
Norville's book covers the spectrum of what she is calling the "Science of Gratitude". Much of her text is secular in nature but the tenth chapter does contain a message for those with religious background. The introduction states Norville's approach very clearly: it is common sense that to be happy you must look at what you have, not what you are lacking. This basic principle in Thank You Power carried throughout the book with examples and research findings. I thought the examples were a strong part of this book. They reminded me of something I knew, deep inside, that even when things are not going well we can focus on something good in our lives. The rewards are both emotional and physical.
Think about these two books when you begin to formulate those New Year's Resolutions.
While the focus is still on thankfulness I would like to recommend two books to carry that feeling well into 2012. John Kralik's 365 Thank Yous and Deborah Norville's Thank You Power: Making the Science of Gratitude Work for You are both excellent books.
Kralik's book is the story of how gratefulness changed his life through daily thanks usually in the form of a written thank you. Since I enjoy writing this concept appeals to me. Feeling grateful toward others is one thing, expressing that gratefulness shares that positive energy, but actually sending a note extends that feeling longer. The first appendix to 365 Thank Yous is a guide to writing thank-you notes. Kralik's notes were not always sent for physical gifts so this advice is helpful. He also makes a case for sending real paper and pen notes of thanks rather than email notes. Much of the focus in Kralik's book is how he turned his life around through gratefulness and how we can do the same. Having been on the receiving end of some special and heartfelt notes by students over the years I can attest to the amazing power it can have over the receiver as well.
Norville's book covers the spectrum of what she is calling the "Science of Gratitude". Much of her text is secular in nature but the tenth chapter does contain a message for those with religious background. The introduction states Norville's approach very clearly: it is common sense that to be happy you must look at what you have, not what you are lacking. This basic principle in Thank You Power carried throughout the book with examples and research findings. I thought the examples were a strong part of this book. They reminded me of something I knew, deep inside, that even when things are not going well we can focus on something good in our lives. The rewards are both emotional and physical.
Think about these two books when you begin to formulate those New Year's Resolutions.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Christmas Story A Day!
I don't think I am the only one who likes Christmas stories. Although I would like to re-read A Christmas Carol every year I don't always have time. Since I am against anything Christmas prior to Thanksgiving that reduces my time slot as well. It has become easier for me to pick up some quick Christmas title when I have a chance to sit next to the tree and enjoy the season. These are easy reads so holiday background music is appropriate as well. Although I have read many of them before it is always good to visit with an old friend you haven't read in at least a year.
My goal is to read and share a Christmas story each day in December. Don't worry I will not be posting long books that will take forever to complete. While some will be religious by nature many will belong to other genre I often read such as mysteries or non-fiction. Some of the titles will be appropriate and short enough to read to school age children.
Please join me every day December 1st through 25th and see what story I have plucked from my stocking!
My goal is to read and share a Christmas story each day in December. Don't worry I will not be posting long books that will take forever to complete. While some will be religious by nature many will belong to other genre I often read such as mysteries or non-fiction. Some of the titles will be appropriate and short enough to read to school age children.
Please join me every day December 1st through 25th and see what story I have plucked from my stocking!
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Quick Update!
Last night I completed Deadly Games by Lindsay Buroker. As you know I love The Emperor's Edge books. This book was not an exception. Now, my question is how soon can I get book 4 into my hot little Kindle.
Earlier this weekend I had finished Flash Gold the first book in a series set in the Yukon during the 1890's from the Flash Gold Chronicles also by Buroker. I have the second book, Hunted, downloaded but have not started it yet.
Of the two series I like the Emperor's Edge the best, mainly because I really feel a link to Amaranthe, the main character. Don't ask me why, I have no idea.
Next on my reading list has to be Charlotte and Emily: A Novel of the Brontes by Jude Morgan. Book Club is coming up on December second, about two and a half weeks. With Thanksgiving at my house in-between I need to start tonight. It sounds like a good read and I will post once our group has had a chance to discuss it.
Earlier this weekend I had finished Flash Gold the first book in a series set in the Yukon during the 1890's from the Flash Gold Chronicles also by Buroker. I have the second book, Hunted, downloaded but have not started it yet.
Of the two series I like the Emperor's Edge the best, mainly because I really feel a link to Amaranthe, the main character. Don't ask me why, I have no idea.
Next on my reading list has to be Charlotte and Emily: A Novel of the Brontes by Jude Morgan. Book Club is coming up on December second, about two and a half weeks. With Thanksgiving at my house in-between I need to start tonight. It sounds like a good read and I will post once our group has had a chance to discuss it.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Interactive Book Cover
The old adage is "you can't judge a book by it's cover" but maybe you can. As I was browsing book blogs last night I came across a Young Adult fiction, Daylight Savings by Edward Hogan The book sounds interesting and I do enjoy time travel novels, but I was especially attracted to the cover. The design flows as if it was liquid when you move your cursor across it. Whether you choose to read the book or not I recommend checking out the cover. Amazing!
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Found: A New Favorite Author
In my experimental, hap-hazard way of choosing books I have stumbled across a new favorite author. Basically if Amazon offers a book on Kindle for $1 or less and compares it to something else I have enjoyed, I'm hooked.
My most recent find is Lindsay Buroker whose web page is here. In the past week I have read everything in her high fantasy steampunk series The Emperor's Edge. Steam driven machinery and repeating crossbows are paired with a fantasy world that includes royalty and their foreign enemies who use magic.
The main character is Amaranthe who is an Enforcer, similar to a policewoman. In the first book, The Emperor's Edge she finds herself at cross purposes with the Emperor, Sespian, although her goal is to protect him. She soon finds herself hunted by government officials with a price on her head. She surrounds herself with unlikely companions and they lead a dangerous lifestyle in the hopes of saving the Emperor and clearing their names.
The second book is Dark Currents (Emperor's Edge 2) followed by a book of short stories Ice Cracker II and other Short Stories. The third book, Deadly Games (Emperor's Edge 3) is expected to be released later this month.
Buroker also has a series of steampunk novellas set in the Yukon called The Flash Gold Chronicles. Currently the first volume can be downloaded free onto your Kindle.
If high fantasy steampunk isn't your style you may still want to check out Lindsay's web page. She has a lot of suggestions and tips for the writers out there who want to self-publish in the ebook format.
My most recent find is Lindsay Buroker whose web page is here. In the past week I have read everything in her high fantasy steampunk series The Emperor's Edge. Steam driven machinery and repeating crossbows are paired with a fantasy world that includes royalty and their foreign enemies who use magic.
The main character is Amaranthe who is an Enforcer, similar to a policewoman. In the first book, The Emperor's Edge she finds herself at cross purposes with the Emperor, Sespian, although her goal is to protect him. She soon finds herself hunted by government officials with a price on her head. She surrounds herself with unlikely companions and they lead a dangerous lifestyle in the hopes of saving the Emperor and clearing their names.
The second book is Dark Currents (Emperor's Edge 2) followed by a book of short stories Ice Cracker II and other Short Stories. The third book, Deadly Games (Emperor's Edge 3) is expected to be released later this month.
Buroker also has a series of steampunk novellas set in the Yukon called The Flash Gold Chronicles. Currently the first volume can be downloaded free onto your Kindle.
If high fantasy steampunk isn't your style you may still want to check out Lindsay's web page. She has a lot of suggestions and tips for the writers out there who want to self-publish in the ebook format.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
We Were The Mulvaneys
I had mentioned earlier that our book for November's book club meeting would be We Were the Mulvaneys by Joyce Carol Oates. It is a wonderful book and probably my favorite book so far by Oates. While not a happy, uplifting book it will be one you are glad you read.
The story is the family saga of the Mulvaneys as retold by Judd, the youngest child of Mike and Corinne Mulvaney. Judd has two older brothers, Mike Jr. and Patrick and one sister Marianne. He reminds us of what it is like to be the youngest child in a family where most of the family history is in place by the time he comes along. Because of his place in the birth order he tends to see not only his family but himself through the eyes of others.
The family seems to be respected and well liked in their small community. Judd believes perhaps even envied. His Dad owns a roofing company that has several employees, the family moves in the rights circles church, country club and school activities. Corinne is a stay-at-home mom, this is 1976. She enjoys antiques and aspires to run a shop although she never quite pulls it together. Mike Jr. was a talented, well liked football player, now out of school. Patrick is bright and free-thinking but a loner. Marianne is attractive and a popular cheer-leader. Judd, just entering high school at the opening of this tale is still finding his way in school, the community and his own family.
All of this changes and the world is turned upside down for the whole family when "it" happens. As Judd unfolds his story, now a grown adult and journalist, we learn what happened and how the family, their business, educations, friendships and family relations are all destroyed.
Judd gives us a grown-up insight of a child's experience. At one point he says "In a family, what isn't spoken is what you listen for. But the noise of a family is to drown it out."
After many years of distance and pain the story leaves us with a happy ending. That is probably the part I question most and like the least. It appears that with very little effort a damaged family is suddenly made whole and happy again. I doubt that this is a realistic expectation for a group that has dealt so badly with a crisis within the family.
Since I finished reading We Were the Mulvaneys over a week ago I believe my perspective has changed and softened somewhat. Time does often change my reactions to a book. Apparently, for Judd at least, family is the same. "Members of a family who've lived together in the heated intensity of family life scarcely know one another. Life is too head-on, too close-up....You can't exercise memory until you've removed yourself from memory's source."
Postscript:
I didn't want to post my review of this book until our book club met last night. I think some of the members may read this blog occasionally and didn't want to give them my thoughts prematurely.
Although only four members were able to attend we had a great discussion and tasty food. Isn't that an important part of a book club gathering?
Several people pointed out that the Mulvaney family seems typical of a family dealing with and covering for an alcoholic family member. We saw each family member complicating their lives with bad choices and victim attitudes. Although the father deserves much of the blame for a downward spiraling of the family we really found it hardest to approve of the mother's actions, or lack of. All of us pondered how we would have dealt with the family's problems. We can't ever really know but all of us hope that we would have been more supportive of our family and made different choices
We Were the Mulvaneys is well worth the read and readily available.
In December we will be discussing Charlotte and Emily: A Novel of the Brontes by Jude Morgan.
The story is the family saga of the Mulvaneys as retold by Judd, the youngest child of Mike and Corinne Mulvaney. Judd has two older brothers, Mike Jr. and Patrick and one sister Marianne. He reminds us of what it is like to be the youngest child in a family where most of the family history is in place by the time he comes along. Because of his place in the birth order he tends to see not only his family but himself through the eyes of others.
The family seems to be respected and well liked in their small community. Judd believes perhaps even envied. His Dad owns a roofing company that has several employees, the family moves in the rights circles church, country club and school activities. Corinne is a stay-at-home mom, this is 1976. She enjoys antiques and aspires to run a shop although she never quite pulls it together. Mike Jr. was a talented, well liked football player, now out of school. Patrick is bright and free-thinking but a loner. Marianne is attractive and a popular cheer-leader. Judd, just entering high school at the opening of this tale is still finding his way in school, the community and his own family.
All of this changes and the world is turned upside down for the whole family when "it" happens. As Judd unfolds his story, now a grown adult and journalist, we learn what happened and how the family, their business, educations, friendships and family relations are all destroyed.
Judd gives us a grown-up insight of a child's experience. At one point he says "In a family, what isn't spoken is what you listen for. But the noise of a family is to drown it out."
After many years of distance and pain the story leaves us with a happy ending. That is probably the part I question most and like the least. It appears that with very little effort a damaged family is suddenly made whole and happy again. I doubt that this is a realistic expectation for a group that has dealt so badly with a crisis within the family.
Since I finished reading We Were the Mulvaneys over a week ago I believe my perspective has changed and softened somewhat. Time does often change my reactions to a book. Apparently, for Judd at least, family is the same. "Members of a family who've lived together in the heated intensity of family life scarcely know one another. Life is too head-on, too close-up....You can't exercise memory until you've removed yourself from memory's source."
Postscript:
I didn't want to post my review of this book until our book club met last night. I think some of the members may read this blog occasionally and didn't want to give them my thoughts prematurely.
Although only four members were able to attend we had a great discussion and tasty food. Isn't that an important part of a book club gathering?
Several people pointed out that the Mulvaney family seems typical of a family dealing with and covering for an alcoholic family member. We saw each family member complicating their lives with bad choices and victim attitudes. Although the father deserves much of the blame for a downward spiraling of the family we really found it hardest to approve of the mother's actions, or lack of. All of us pondered how we would have dealt with the family's problems. We can't ever really know but all of us hope that we would have been more supportive of our family and made different choices
We Were the Mulvaneys is well worth the read and readily available.
In December we will be discussing Charlotte and Emily: A Novel of the Brontes by Jude Morgan.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Unpacking Books
Today I packed away the few fall decorations that will not carry over into Thanksgiving. The Halloween books went, sadly, into the box until next year. Now that my grandson is in school full time we didn't read some of them because they were baby books, and some because we just ran out of time.
Pilgrims now sit where ghosts, mummies and pirates had been only yesterday. The good news is that the Thanksgiving books are out sitting in our little guy's rocking chair waiting for him to visit. So many books and so little time together. I must admit to reading a couple before I stacked them up.
If you are lucky enough to have children in your life here are my recommendations:
Baby Books: Two sturdy board books have survived the test of Thanksgivings past. First is Corduroy's Thanksgiving. Everyone loves the Corduroy books by Don Freeman no matter what their age. Five Silly Turkeys by Salina Yoon is a good read and has shiny tail feathers to help you count down from five.
Primary Books to be read aloud: Picking Apples & Pumpkins by Amy and Richard Hutchings. The photos in this book engaged my students and grandchildren. 'Twas the Night Before Thanksgiving by Dav Pilkey is wonderful for school age students because it begins with a field trip. It always made my students beg to be taken on a farm field trip. Today Is Thanksgiving! by P. K. Hallinan is the perfect way to start a discussion about how we celebrate Thanksgiving. Arthur's Thanksgiving is a classic for the primary age group just as Corduroy is for the youngest set. Most kids are familiar with Arthur and his friends from other Marc Brown books. A simple book with beautiful soft drawings is Thanksgiving is for Giving by Margaret Sutherland, illustrated by Sonja Lamut. Reading this book is a great way to begin conversations about the people and things we are thankful for. One Little, Two Little, Three Little Pilgrims by B. G. Hennessy has the sing-song cadence you would expect from the title. If also offers the younger set a glimpse of life as a pilgrim or Indian child.
Intermediate Books: The First Thanksgiving by Linda Hayward is a Step into Reading book for grades 1-3 but can also be read to the younger children. There are some really good pictures in this book by illustrator James Watling, we have always spent a lot of time on the 2 page cross-section of the Mayflower. A Plump and Perky Turkey by Teresa Bateman is a very funny book and it is refreshing to see the not-so-usual outcome of this particular feast. Eve Bunting is one of my favorite children's authors and A Turkey For Thanksgiving is no exception. When Mr. Moose goes hunting for a turkey for Thanksgiving he gathers his friends along the way. And then....well, read it and see for yourself.
Historically Accurate Children's Books: I knew of Jean Craighead George thanks to her wonderful chapter books, The First Thanksgiving stands up to her reputation. The illustrations by Thomas Locker are splendid. Another tried and true children's author, Jean Fritz, packs a lot of information into a small format 30 page book. It has everything we have come to expect in a Fritz book, you won't be disappointed. Squanto's Journey, The Story of the First Thanksgiving by Joseph Bruchac is one of my favorite Thanksgiving books. The illustrations by Greg Shed are beautiful and haunting. In Three Young Pilgrims by Cheryl Harness we meet the three Allertons children and see the voyage of the Mayflower as well as the first Thanksgiving through their eyes. Again the artwork is fantastic and very detailed for those children who like to search for every little thing in the picture. Kate Waters teams with photographer Russ Kendall to bring a strong sense of reality to Giving Thanks, The 1621 Harvest Feast as told by a 14-year-old Wampanoag boy, Dancing Moccasins and a six year old English boy, Resolved White. Another Waters and Kendall book is On the Mayflower, Voyage of the Ship's Apprentice & a Passenger Girl. While this book does not cover Thanksgiving it is an excellent resource for use prior to reading Giving Thanks. Another information packed book, The Pilgrims' First Thanksgiving by Ann McGovern is somewhat shorter than a few in this section. It is very well suited to read aloud. The last two books are great resources but not made for a bedtime read. When I share them with children I go through the book pointing out pictures, asking questions and reading the parts that seem to interest the child. They could also be read aloud in two or more settings. Judy Donnelly's The Pilgrims and Me is part of the Smart About History series of books. Don't Know Much About The Pilgrims by Kenneth C. Davis reads much like his Don't Know Much About History. It is packed with facts in a conversational tone and even includes a brief quiz.
Pilgrims now sit where ghosts, mummies and pirates had been only yesterday. The good news is that the Thanksgiving books are out sitting in our little guy's rocking chair waiting for him to visit. So many books and so little time together. I must admit to reading a couple before I stacked them up.
If you are lucky enough to have children in your life here are my recommendations:
Baby Books: Two sturdy board books have survived the test of Thanksgivings past. First is Corduroy's Thanksgiving. Everyone loves the Corduroy books by Don Freeman no matter what their age. Five Silly Turkeys by Salina Yoon is a good read and has shiny tail feathers to help you count down from five.
Primary Books to be read aloud: Picking Apples & Pumpkins by Amy and Richard Hutchings. The photos in this book engaged my students and grandchildren. 'Twas the Night Before Thanksgiving by Dav Pilkey is wonderful for school age students because it begins with a field trip. It always made my students beg to be taken on a farm field trip. Today Is Thanksgiving! by P. K. Hallinan is the perfect way to start a discussion about how we celebrate Thanksgiving. Arthur's Thanksgiving is a classic for the primary age group just as Corduroy is for the youngest set. Most kids are familiar with Arthur and his friends from other Marc Brown books. A simple book with beautiful soft drawings is Thanksgiving is for Giving by Margaret Sutherland, illustrated by Sonja Lamut. Reading this book is a great way to begin conversations about the people and things we are thankful for. One Little, Two Little, Three Little Pilgrims by B. G. Hennessy has the sing-song cadence you would expect from the title. If also offers the younger set a glimpse of life as a pilgrim or Indian child.
Intermediate Books: The First Thanksgiving by Linda Hayward is a Step into Reading book for grades 1-3 but can also be read to the younger children. There are some really good pictures in this book by illustrator James Watling, we have always spent a lot of time on the 2 page cross-section of the Mayflower. A Plump and Perky Turkey by Teresa Bateman is a very funny book and it is refreshing to see the not-so-usual outcome of this particular feast. Eve Bunting is one of my favorite children's authors and A Turkey For Thanksgiving is no exception. When Mr. Moose goes hunting for a turkey for Thanksgiving he gathers his friends along the way. And then....well, read it and see for yourself.
Historically Accurate Children's Books: I knew of Jean Craighead George thanks to her wonderful chapter books, The First Thanksgiving stands up to her reputation. The illustrations by Thomas Locker are splendid. Another tried and true children's author, Jean Fritz, packs a lot of information into a small format 30 page book. It has everything we have come to expect in a Fritz book, you won't be disappointed. Squanto's Journey, The Story of the First Thanksgiving by Joseph Bruchac is one of my favorite Thanksgiving books. The illustrations by Greg Shed are beautiful and haunting. In Three Young Pilgrims by Cheryl Harness we meet the three Allertons children and see the voyage of the Mayflower as well as the first Thanksgiving through their eyes. Again the artwork is fantastic and very detailed for those children who like to search for every little thing in the picture. Kate Waters teams with photographer Russ Kendall to bring a strong sense of reality to Giving Thanks, The 1621 Harvest Feast as told by a 14-year-old Wampanoag boy, Dancing Moccasins and a six year old English boy, Resolved White. Another Waters and Kendall book is On the Mayflower, Voyage of the Ship's Apprentice & a Passenger Girl. While this book does not cover Thanksgiving it is an excellent resource for use prior to reading Giving Thanks. Another information packed book, The Pilgrims' First Thanksgiving by Ann McGovern is somewhat shorter than a few in this section. It is very well suited to read aloud. The last two books are great resources but not made for a bedtime read. When I share them with children I go through the book pointing out pictures, asking questions and reading the parts that seem to interest the child. They could also be read aloud in two or more settings. Judy Donnelly's The Pilgrims and Me is part of the Smart About History series of books. Don't Know Much About The Pilgrims by Kenneth C. Davis reads much like his Don't Know Much About History. It is packed with facts in a conversational tone and even includes a brief quiz.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Wine Instead of Tea?
A glass of red wine goes equally well with The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Especially one dripping with blood.
My daughter made this for my quiet night of reading. Check out her cooking blog for the directions and several other Halloween edibles.
Happy Halloween!
This wonderful classic by Washington Irving is a quick and easy read. For several years now I have made a point of reading it on Halloween night after the ghosts, pirates and princesses have all gone home to bed. A warm cup of cider or tea, possibly an afghan or shawl and a good book, what better way to end a holiday?
It is not too late, a quick trip to your local library will probably find it still on the shelves. If not it is a quick free download on the Kindle and possibly other e-readers as well.
Treat yourself to a new tradition with an old story. I will be reading it tonight, cozy and warm with something special to sip. Feel free to join me. Happy Halloween!
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Celebration Through Reading
I come from a family that celebrates, some say to excess, any and every occasion we enjoy. Before you assume that my house is draped in colored lights for every conceivable holiday let me say that there are many different ways to celebrate. For me it often involves reading seasonal books, stories and poems.
Halloween has never been my favorite holiday, but I have enjoyed spooky stories clear back to my childhood. Last year I spent much of October reading science fiction, mystery and stories I consider seasonal in subject or tone. It was a wonderful month to be reading. From the dates and notes in my reading journal October 2010 went like this:
10-3-2010 I began the month with The Last Dickens: A Novel by Matthew Pearl. I had read Poe's Shadow and The Dante Club by Pearl so knew that I would probably like this book as well. I didn't expect it to be quiet as dark or to be written in a style so similar to Charles Dickens. It is the story of the last book written by Dickens but left unfinished, Mystery of Edwin Drood. The color and characters are too much like a Dickens work to be unintentional. Although not chosen for as an October read this book did guide me the books I read for the rest of the month.
10-8-2010 Frankenstein by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelly was my next pick. I must say I prefer the alternate title The Modern Day Prometheus, it better describes the main character. Instead of a moaning, groaning creature described as "Frankenstein's monster" I met an agile, god-like creature of intelligence and compassion. He is turned upon by the people and world that he so loves. I think we can all identify with that feeling at some time in varying degrees. Although I have seen the old black and white movie this was my first reading.
10-15-2010 My next selection was a re-read of Dracula by Bram Stoker. I read this book back in high school, it is just as good as I remembered, but different. I remembered Dracula as being more sensual and romantically involved in his victims, not so. Perhaps that image came from the old black and whites. This time around he seems more animal-like and brutal. He seemed vengeful toward Dr. Van Helsing and the other men who helped Lucy to her final rest. Lucy...I would have expected to remember her name but didn't. My final note says "I guess it pays to re-visit those old classics."
10-18-2010 "I thought this would be a great Halloween read because I have often listened to the radio re-broadcast on Halloween night." So begins my journal entry for War of the Worlds by H. G. Wells. Much to my surprise I was reading a whole different story than the one so familiar to me while growing up. Set in England at the turn of the century this story was a wonderful, and new, read. The Martians are both all-powerful and vulnerable. The reactions of the people predictable by today's sci-fi standards. Orson Welles supposedly based his 1938 broadcast on this book, but very loosely. My anticipation of the radio version is not damaged by Welles' interpretation.
10-26-2010 If one H. G. Wells is good, two must be better, so my next book was The Time Machine. It is better than the movie which in this case is saying a lot. The movie does follow the storyline very closely, especially at the beginning. The Morlacks and Eloiand are different visually from the movie portrayal. At the end the stories take two different paths. In the movie the time traveler goes back to Weena, apparently to help or at least change their civilization. In the book there is a different ending that is well worth the read even if you know the movie by heart.
Pick a book to read during the upcoming holidays. You will need an excuse to sit down, put some soft music on in the background and relax.
Halloween has never been my favorite holiday, but I have enjoyed spooky stories clear back to my childhood. Last year I spent much of October reading science fiction, mystery and stories I consider seasonal in subject or tone. It was a wonderful month to be reading. From the dates and notes in my reading journal October 2010 went like this:
10-3-2010 I began the month with The Last Dickens: A Novel by Matthew Pearl. I had read Poe's Shadow and The Dante Club by Pearl so knew that I would probably like this book as well. I didn't expect it to be quiet as dark or to be written in a style so similar to Charles Dickens. It is the story of the last book written by Dickens but left unfinished, Mystery of Edwin Drood. The color and characters are too much like a Dickens work to be unintentional. Although not chosen for as an October read this book did guide me the books I read for the rest of the month.
10-8-2010 Frankenstein by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelly was my next pick. I must say I prefer the alternate title The Modern Day Prometheus, it better describes the main character. Instead of a moaning, groaning creature described as "Frankenstein's monster" I met an agile, god-like creature of intelligence and compassion. He is turned upon by the people and world that he so loves. I think we can all identify with that feeling at some time in varying degrees. Although I have seen the old black and white movie this was my first reading.
10-15-2010 My next selection was a re-read of Dracula by Bram Stoker. I read this book back in high school, it is just as good as I remembered, but different. I remembered Dracula as being more sensual and romantically involved in his victims, not so. Perhaps that image came from the old black and whites. This time around he seems more animal-like and brutal. He seemed vengeful toward Dr. Van Helsing and the other men who helped Lucy to her final rest. Lucy...I would have expected to remember her name but didn't. My final note says "I guess it pays to re-visit those old classics."
10-18-2010 "I thought this would be a great Halloween read because I have often listened to the radio re-broadcast on Halloween night." So begins my journal entry for War of the Worlds by H. G. Wells. Much to my surprise I was reading a whole different story than the one so familiar to me while growing up. Set in England at the turn of the century this story was a wonderful, and new, read. The Martians are both all-powerful and vulnerable. The reactions of the people predictable by today's sci-fi standards. Orson Welles supposedly based his 1938 broadcast on this book, but very loosely. My anticipation of the radio version is not damaged by Welles' interpretation.
10-26-2010 If one H. G. Wells is good, two must be better, so my next book was The Time Machine. It is better than the movie which in this case is saying a lot. The movie does follow the storyline very closely, especially at the beginning. The Morlacks and Eloiand are different visually from the movie portrayal. At the end the stories take two different paths. In the movie the time traveler goes back to Weena, apparently to help or at least change their civilization. In the book there is a different ending that is well worth the read even if you know the movie by heart.
Pick a book to read during the upcoming holidays. You will need an excuse to sit down, put some soft music on in the background and relax.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
My Secret is Out!
Did I say eclectic? I am sure that I warned you several posts back that I have an eclectic reading style. Now I am going to reveal one of my reading secrets. Be forewarned--this revealation even surprised my son. "Steampunk?" he replied as I explained the book I had just read. I thought it was a new trend in fantasy or sci-fi.
I admit they are not books that you will display on your shelves in leather bound, gilt page volumes. When you combine the Victorian setting and amazing technology that seems to somehow fit within the era you have caught my attention. Add to that mix strong female characters as well as vampires and werewolves. Then throw in some mystery and a good portion of action--I am engaged and entertained. Isn't that one of the reasons we read?
Steampunk, actually probably a sub-genre of science fiction or fantasy, is diverse. I read one book that I enjoyed except that sex seemed to be a major focus of the story to the point of detracting from the story line. Then I discovered Gail Carriger. I would be confortable loaning her books to my grand-daughters or my mother.
Ms. Carriger has created a great series called The Parasol Protectorate. I read through the first four books very quickly, downloading them to my Kindle the moment I finished reading the previous book. The current titles in this series are: Soulless; Changeless; Blameless; and Heartless. Timeless is due in March 2012 and I can hardly wait.
Several series of steampunk are available for the young adult crowd as well. I can understand how vampires and werewolves in a different setting would appeal to this age group although not all of this genre includes supernaturals. The amount and type of technology varies as well.
My suggestion? Read Soulless and see what you think. Once you are hooked try some of the other steampunk authors, there seem to be a lot out there. Find your confort level and enjoy!
I admit they are not books that you will display on your shelves in leather bound, gilt page volumes. When you combine the Victorian setting and amazing technology that seems to somehow fit within the era you have caught my attention. Add to that mix strong female characters as well as vampires and werewolves. Then throw in some mystery and a good portion of action--I am engaged and entertained. Isn't that one of the reasons we read?
Steampunk, actually probably a sub-genre of science fiction or fantasy, is diverse. I read one book that I enjoyed except that sex seemed to be a major focus of the story to the point of detracting from the story line. Then I discovered Gail Carriger. I would be confortable loaning her books to my grand-daughters or my mother.
Ms. Carriger has created a great series called The Parasol Protectorate. I read through the first four books very quickly, downloading them to my Kindle the moment I finished reading the previous book. The current titles in this series are: Soulless; Changeless; Blameless; and Heartless. Timeless is due in March 2012 and I can hardly wait.
Several series of steampunk are available for the young adult crowd as well. I can understand how vampires and werewolves in a different setting would appeal to this age group although not all of this genre includes supernaturals. The amount and type of technology varies as well.
My suggestion? Read Soulless and see what you think. Once you are hooked try some of the other steampunk authors, there seem to be a lot out there. Find your confort level and enjoy!
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Short on Reading Time Lately?
Reading is relaxing, fulfilling and should be enjoyed daily. Yet I know there are times when we get so bogged down by life and commitments that we just can't take that plunge into a new book. I don't know about you, but I have no self control and would rather skip the laundry and other household chores to read a new book.
My suggestion? Don't read a book, try flash fiction. Also sometimes called nano fiction these little tidbits are not shortened or condensed works. They are true, stand alone stories with characters, plot, conflict and resolution.
This genre can run anywhere from a few words to a thousand but generally runs 55 to 300 words. Flash fiction is readily available as anthologies in e-book format or individual stories online. Choose the size and format that fits your time frame.
As with any anthology, most of us will not enjoy 100% of the content. These are the books I have enjoyed: Dancing on Fly Ash: One Hundred Word Stories by Matt Bell and Josh Maday; Nano Flash Fiction for Kindle and Nano Flash Fiction for Kindle Vol. 2 by James Dillingham; and Hint Fiction: An Anthology of Stories in 25 Words or Fewer by Robert Swartwood.
Check online for free reads. Many web sites offer contests for budding authors around a weekly or monthly theme or writing prompt. A site I go back to frequently even includes some older examples from a 1916 Life Magazine writing competition. NPR also sponsors three minute story competitions throughout the year.
Warning! I have found reading flash fiction to be very addictive.
My suggestion? Don't read a book, try flash fiction. Also sometimes called nano fiction these little tidbits are not shortened or condensed works. They are true, stand alone stories with characters, plot, conflict and resolution.
This genre can run anywhere from a few words to a thousand but generally runs 55 to 300 words. Flash fiction is readily available as anthologies in e-book format or individual stories online. Choose the size and format that fits your time frame.
As with any anthology, most of us will not enjoy 100% of the content. These are the books I have enjoyed: Dancing on Fly Ash: One Hundred Word Stories by Matt Bell and Josh Maday; Nano Flash Fiction for Kindle and Nano Flash Fiction for Kindle Vol. 2 by James Dillingham; and Hint Fiction: An Anthology of Stories in 25 Words or Fewer by Robert Swartwood.
Check online for free reads. Many web sites offer contests for budding authors around a weekly or monthly theme or writing prompt. A site I go back to frequently even includes some older examples from a 1916 Life Magazine writing competition. NPR also sponsors three minute story competitions throughout the year.
Warning! I have found reading flash fiction to be very addictive.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
What Will You Read Next?
I know, I have stacks and piles everywhere, too. Sometimes, though, I feel like I am in a rut and need something that I don't already have sitting around.
If you feel the same you need a personalized reading list.
My local library, and others around the country, will put together a personalized reading list based on your answers to a brief questionnaire. The questions are simple: favorite authors, genre, and books. You will also be ask about things you don't like. I don't read books with a focus on concentration camps, I just don't. I filled out the questionnaire then submitted it online. It really is that simple.
In a very short time, ten days to two weeks, I had a new specialized list created just for me. My first list had ten choices with a short synopsis of the books, a link to the book in the online library catalog and a statement about why this book was chosen for me. I appreciate that this list was created by real librarians not a computer program.
Thanks to this service I have discovered and fallen in love with new (to me) authors such as Wilkie Collins. I had never heard of him so did not know that he is considered the father of the modern detective novel.
Moonstone was suggested to me. I downloaded it onto my Kindle for free then enjoyed the book and author immensely. Collins was a friend and colleague of Arthur Conan Doyle who I have liked for years. In addition, I have read and enjoyed all ten of the books on my reading list. Only one was a repeat for me, but I followed up on the suggestion to listen to the audio book of Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand if I had read it previously.
Contact your local library to see if they offer this service, many do. Meanwhile my suggestion is to check out Moonstone by Wilkie Collins. If you like classic detective mysteries you won't be disappointed.
If you feel the same you need a personalized reading list.
My local library, and others around the country, will put together a personalized reading list based on your answers to a brief questionnaire. The questions are simple: favorite authors, genre, and books. You will also be ask about things you don't like. I don't read books with a focus on concentration camps, I just don't. I filled out the questionnaire then submitted it online. It really is that simple.
In a very short time, ten days to two weeks, I had a new specialized list created just for me. My first list had ten choices with a short synopsis of the books, a link to the book in the online library catalog and a statement about why this book was chosen for me. I appreciate that this list was created by real librarians not a computer program.
Thanks to this service I have discovered and fallen in love with new (to me) authors such as Wilkie Collins. I had never heard of him so did not know that he is considered the father of the modern detective novel.
Moonstone was suggested to me. I downloaded it onto my Kindle for free then enjoyed the book and author immensely. Collins was a friend and colleague of Arthur Conan Doyle who I have liked for years. In addition, I have read and enjoyed all ten of the books on my reading list. Only one was a repeat for me, but I followed up on the suggestion to listen to the audio book of Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand if I had read it previously.
Contact your local library to see if they offer this service, many do. Meanwhile my suggestion is to check out Moonstone by Wilkie Collins. If you like classic detective mysteries you won't be disappointed.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Tea, Mystery and Charleston's Historic District
 |
| One of my favorites. |
Theodosia Browning is the owner of The Indigo Tea Shop in the historic district of Charleston. What makes her really interesting is the she has a knack for getting involved in local crime investigations. She is surrounded by a group of likable and caring friends including Detective Tidwell who tries to keep Theodosia out of trouble but doesn't really succeed. My favorite character is Drayton, professional tea blender, history buff and man of class and breeding.
While mystery and history should be enough, there is tea. I actually take notes as I read so that I can find the more elusive teas via internet shopping. With tea you get fancy tea cups, tea cloths and tea towels. Plus there are benefit events, centerpieces and decorations. Then, there is food--scones, muffins, cookies, tea cakes and more hearty offerings with some recipes at the back of the book.
There are currently twelve books in the series. The next book, Agony of the Leaves, can be pre-ordered as it is due in March 2012. These are quick enjoyable reads if you don't stop to try all the recipes before going to the next book. Although these books can stand alone I would recommend beginning with the first, Death by Darjeeling. Let's face it, you can try one, get hooked and read them all by March.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Thursday Next
A set of books I recommend to anyone who will listen is the Thursday Next series by Jasper Fforde. Don't even ask me what genre to put these in, there is a little of everything. If you have ever daydreamed of walking into your favorite book to live, visit, or possibly change the ending then this is your kind of lit.
Thursday Next is actually the main character who works for a policing agency, Jurisfiction, that controls the Book World. Until I came across the first book, The Eyre Affair, I hadn't considered that the Book World was in much danger or needed policing. I was definitely wrong. Thursday's job is protecting books from tampering and revision by outside forces. You can guess what book is at stake in the first volume.
Sometimes what I really want out of a book is fantasy, a world that I know doesn't exist and can't possibly be on tomorrow's front page. That is not to say that Thursday's world does not have the same problems we have, but they do play out very differently with twists in plot that I do not expect to encounter here.
I found the Thursday Next series a lot like popcorn--you want to devour them by the handfuls. It is fun to come across favorite characters from other books and see a whole new side to them. I loved Great Expectations from the moment I read it in seventh grade. In Book World there is a Miss Havisham that Charles Dickens never dreamt of.
Fforde lives in Wales and has published several other books that all seem to cross the genre lines. He also lets his own personal quirks shine through, I love that in an author. For instance, none of his books have a chapter thirteen. You may find it in the index, but check out the page, no chapter thirteen.
The current books in the series are: The Eyre Affair; Lost in a Good Book; The Well of Lost Plots; Something Rotten; First Among Sequels; and One of Our Thursdays Is Missing: A Novel.
Take time to check out a Thursday Next novel, you won't regret it.
Thursday Next is actually the main character who works for a policing agency, Jurisfiction, that controls the Book World. Until I came across the first book, The Eyre Affair, I hadn't considered that the Book World was in much danger or needed policing. I was definitely wrong. Thursday's job is protecting books from tampering and revision by outside forces. You can guess what book is at stake in the first volume.
Sometimes what I really want out of a book is fantasy, a world that I know doesn't exist and can't possibly be on tomorrow's front page. That is not to say that Thursday's world does not have the same problems we have, but they do play out very differently with twists in plot that I do not expect to encounter here.
I found the Thursday Next series a lot like popcorn--you want to devour them by the handfuls. It is fun to come across favorite characters from other books and see a whole new side to them. I loved Great Expectations from the moment I read it in seventh grade. In Book World there is a Miss Havisham that Charles Dickens never dreamt of.
Fforde lives in Wales and has published several other books that all seem to cross the genre lines. He also lets his own personal quirks shine through, I love that in an author. For instance, none of his books have a chapter thirteen. You may find it in the index, but check out the page, no chapter thirteen.
The current books in the series are: The Eyre Affair; Lost in a Good Book; The Well of Lost Plots; Something Rotten; First Among Sequels; and One of Our Thursdays Is Missing: A Novel.
Take time to check out a Thursday Next novel, you won't regret it.
Monday, October 10, 2011
A Book Suggestion from an Eclectic Reader
Last night I finished my 48th book for 2011. My secret is that I have a very eclectic reading style, in truth I will read almost anything.
Although I do not like blood and gore I am a huge fan of murder mysteries. I grew up on Miss Marple with her calm "Oh, my! I do believe someone has killed poor Mr. So-and-So in the Library". I am surprised that I wasn't afraid of libraries.
I love historical fiction, books featuring technology, classics, best sellers, satire, sci-fi, books that make you think and books that don't make you think. You get the picture.
For about the last year now I have added another category, books I can download onto my Kindle. I know that there are two kinds of readers, those who carry their Kindles everywhere and those who won't touch one. I have friends and family on both sides. I actually have some very good reasons for loving my Kindle but I won't bore you with the details, your probably already know which side you are on.
If you are anti-Kindle and fear the demise of the real, in your hands, weight and page turning book I have a recommendation for you. I read this one in July and have talked to everyone about it--The Last Book Store in America by Amy Stewart. Stewart is a bookstore owner but does not fail to see humor in the plight of the book.
The basic plot is that books are falling from favor and bookstores are closing their doors daily all due the the Gizmo. It appears that the Gizmo is all you really need, it is a phone, an e-reader and more. The company that has developed and marketed the Gizmo is Nile.com. I am not sure if this book should be labeled humor or satire, but I enjoyed it immensely.
The story of how the last book store stays open and succeeds will not only make you laugh, but it will also make you think. Everyone I have talked into reading it has enjoyed it. So, now I am recommending it to you.
If you still aren't sure that the author of a book about the death of books and book stores can have a sense of humor--it is only available on the Kindle!
Although I do not like blood and gore I am a huge fan of murder mysteries. I grew up on Miss Marple with her calm "Oh, my! I do believe someone has killed poor Mr. So-and-So in the Library". I am surprised that I wasn't afraid of libraries.
I love historical fiction, books featuring technology, classics, best sellers, satire, sci-fi, books that make you think and books that don't make you think. You get the picture.
For about the last year now I have added another category, books I can download onto my Kindle. I know that there are two kinds of readers, those who carry their Kindles everywhere and those who won't touch one. I have friends and family on both sides. I actually have some very good reasons for loving my Kindle but I won't bore you with the details, your probably already know which side you are on.
If you are anti-Kindle and fear the demise of the real, in your hands, weight and page turning book I have a recommendation for you. I read this one in July and have talked to everyone about it--The Last Book Store in America by Amy Stewart. Stewart is a bookstore owner but does not fail to see humor in the plight of the book.
The basic plot is that books are falling from favor and bookstores are closing their doors daily all due the the Gizmo. It appears that the Gizmo is all you really need, it is a phone, an e-reader and more. The company that has developed and marketed the Gizmo is Nile.com. I am not sure if this book should be labeled humor or satire, but I enjoyed it immensely.
The story of how the last book store stays open and succeeds will not only make you laugh, but it will also make you think. Everyone I have talked into reading it has enjoyed it. So, now I am recommending it to you.
If you still aren't sure that the author of a book about the death of books and book stores can have a sense of humor--it is only available on the Kindle!
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Book Club Recap
Book Club was wonderful last night--of course we knew it would be. Great friends, great discussions and great food. What better way to spend a Friday night.
The Chili Queen by Sandra Dallas was a relaxing and enjoyable book after a very tense and emotional book in September. Our tradition has been to read a banned book each September in celebration of banned books. This year we read Sophie's Choice by William Styron. While the book had much to offer it was a heavy, emotional read. It was relaxing this month that the conversations, book and otherwise were relaxing and calm.
In addition to all the talking and snacking we put together a list for the next fifteen months of Book Club. Yes, not a year, but a year and a quarter. Seven members were in attendance this month, a rare treat since one of our members hasn't been at a lot of meetings this year. We each chose two books (14) and then the group chose a banned book.
I won't list the fifteen books here, you will hear all about them as we move through the upcoming months.
The first Friday in November we will be discussing We Were the Mulvaneys by Joyce Carol Oates. Over the years we seem to have read several by her, but no one is complaining.
The Chili Queen by Sandra Dallas was a relaxing and enjoyable book after a very tense and emotional book in September. Our tradition has been to read a banned book each September in celebration of banned books. This year we read Sophie's Choice by William Styron. While the book had much to offer it was a heavy, emotional read. It was relaxing this month that the conversations, book and otherwise were relaxing and calm.
In addition to all the talking and snacking we put together a list for the next fifteen months of Book Club. Yes, not a year, but a year and a quarter. Seven members were in attendance this month, a rare treat since one of our members hasn't been at a lot of meetings this year. We each chose two books (14) and then the group chose a banned book.
I won't list the fifteen books here, you will hear all about them as we move through the upcoming months.
The first Friday in November we will be discussing We Were the Mulvaneys by Joyce Carol Oates. Over the years we seem to have read several by her, but no one is complaining.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Book Club Tonight!
Not only is tonight my monthly book club meeting, it is our annual planning meeting. We will begin with a draft calendar and our individual lists, then finish with twelve book picks for 2012. Several years ago we decided that planning ahead helped us to get the books we wanted to read and discuss. Some members get them from High Plains Library District, some from a book swap, and others purchase the physical book or get it on our Kindles.
The problem is too many choices. At most we will each add two books for next year. I have two pages of notes on books I would like to recommend and it has taken me all afternoon to narrow it down to four choices. Maybe I will be lucky and someone else will have picked some of them as well.
Yes, I could just read them anyway, and I do, but some books just demand to be discussed. Our membership has been pretty constant throughout the years, we have become friends not just members. An outsider would think that we get off track a lot, not so. The people and events in our reading calls up the emotions and similarities in our own lives. There are books that just must be discussed with fellow book lovers. It creates another deminision.
My list for tonight includes The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco, The Reading Promise: My Father and the Books We Share by Alice Ozma, Flaw by Magdalena Tulli and The Diaries of Sofia Tolstoy, translated by Cathy Porter. I don't know yet which ones I will actually choose as we put pen to paper.
Tonight we will snack as we discuss this month's pick--The Chili Queen by Sandra Dallas. We will solve the problems of the world, reccomend the books we read this month, and plan a whole new year of books.
The problem is too many choices. At most we will each add two books for next year. I have two pages of notes on books I would like to recommend and it has taken me all afternoon to narrow it down to four choices. Maybe I will be lucky and someone else will have picked some of them as well.
Yes, I could just read them anyway, and I do, but some books just demand to be discussed. Our membership has been pretty constant throughout the years, we have become friends not just members. An outsider would think that we get off track a lot, not so. The people and events in our reading calls up the emotions and similarities in our own lives. There are books that just must be discussed with fellow book lovers. It creates another deminision.
My list for tonight includes The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco, The Reading Promise: My Father and the Books We Share by Alice Ozma, Flaw by Magdalena Tulli and The Diaries of Sofia Tolstoy, translated by Cathy Porter. I don't know yet which ones I will actually choose as we put pen to paper.
Tonight we will snack as we discuss this month's pick--The Chili Queen by Sandra Dallas. We will solve the problems of the world, reccomend the books we read this month, and plan a whole new year of books.
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