Just One More...

It is the last day of the year and I have managed to squeeze in one more book and plan to get at least one more mile tallied before the day has ended. My kitchen is a disaster area, and I have stepped away for the moment to sit, type, enjoy the super-red Christmas tree and have a few long breaths to savor the moment. Most of us have looked back or are looking forward; maybe you have found yourself making resolutions for the upcoming year. It is that type of day.

I have spent the last two days reading Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold. This is another book soon to be turned into film in the next year. Despite an interest in the book, I found this material difficult to read. The opening paragraph reveals the narrator's murder and there is no mystery to discover who might have committed the crime, just as to whether or not s/he will be caught. There was a moment where I did not feel as though I could read further, but I pushed past the window and spent the morning finishing the last few chapters. The ending felt a bit rushed or drawn out, depending on perspective, but I won't give anything away here. Keep your eye out for one chapter which has a different title than the rest.

Thanks for spending part of your year reading my musings. Happy New Year and I hope to see you next year.

No Dragons

I spent yesterday morning finishing The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson. This book was originally published under the title Män som hatar kvinnor (Men Who Hate Women) which is not a bad choice considering the material content. The work is the first in the Millennium series and this volume was translated by Reg Keeland. [My only significant issue in the translation is the temperature references to Fahrenheit; having been to Scandinavia, Celsius is preferred.]

The book's main characters include a young woman with advanced computer "skills" and a financial journalist who pursues stories which highlight anyone who is not acting ethically and honestly in their business. Some of the content is hard to read; violence against women and murder are prominent pieces in the book. As I moved through the chapters, however I was intensely interested in how the mystery would be solved. While I felt as if the end was not as strong as other parts of the novel, the writing might have been handled in this manner in order to transition to the next book in the series. I have reserved this title from the library so I can let you know at some point in the not so distant future if this assumption is correct.

You'd Better Think

I finished The Help Christmas morning. I had made very good progress on the evening of the 24th but wanted to finish the book "fresh" rather than with a tired mind. The book was powerful. Once upon a time I dated someone whose father grew up under the care of a maid/nanny, and I wish now that I would have asked more questions about how this felt. I do know that he loved her. My other recurring thought as I read this book is that we (international collective we) had sent a man into space in 1961, but we had not yet reached a point where we treated everyone the same, but I suppose this holds true in some nations even now. Oh, and the Terrible Awful Thing, it was pretty bad. My sister and I spent time Thursday going through the characters (most liked, least liked) and our favorite moments in the book (some funny, some sad).

In the end, I liked the book because it spoke to me. It reminded me that I had felt compelled to read Alex Haley's Roots in the eighth grade and that I always felt that I would move from the small town in which I was raised. It brought back people I have known and conversations that I have had. It left me thinking, and I think that is what a good book should do.

Happy Merry

Today's the 25th but I'm writing this note a day early as I have a suspicion that the day will be a bit chaotic. I am poised to begin Chapter 17 in The Help and am waiting until I have another section of time to read uninterrupted. Hopefully, this time will come later tonight as I do not want to leave the book sitting too long. The story is compelling.

I hope you find a bit of quiet time in the day to enjoy a quick read or just the company of someone you love, or at least like a little bit. If you happen to be alone, perhaps savor that too with a cup of tea (or your favorite beverage). Things will begin to creep back to that level we call normal all too soon.

Help Me Help You

It should be no surprise that I took a couple of books from my sis to read over the break. I have The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, her last bookclub read, and The Help by Kathryn Stockett. Based on comments from another GBC member and a writer-stylist friend, both of whom have read The Help, I decided to start with Stockett's work. The story began in 1962 and through four chapters, I have read through Aibileen's and Minny's eyes. While some of the characters are immediately dislikable, some already seem endearing, and I find myself wondering "what's next?" Sis says she wants to be around when I discover the "Terrible Awful Thing" which was done. Of course, now I'm really curious.

We are Not Alone

It seems we are not the only club that fails to discuss the book. My sister has just returned from her book club meeting with the intended discussion of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson. This was the first of three manuscripts handed to his publisher in 2004 shortly before he died. Described as "engrossing, but at times disturbing," my sister felt it was worth the read. This will likely be my pre-Christmas reading as well.

Sometimes life, with the aid of video, will take precedence over discussion. For the record, reading water was not involved.

Penny for Your Thoughts

One other item of news from our meeting this week is that the GBC is participating in the Pennies for Peace program. One of our members recently read Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace, One School at a Time by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Renin and was so moved by the work she prepared labeled jars for each of us so that we may collect our change. We are also laying down the gauntlet for other bookclubs to participate.

Perhaps each of us have had to re-evaluate budgets this year; this month's meeting was a reminder that we are fortunate. Enjoy the holidays and share your pennies with someone who needs them.

Santa Baby

The GBC can keep a secret for two months. Who knew?

This month's meeting was a combo book club/baby shower for two of the GBC members. The scheme was hatched at the end of the October gathering; reading water can be so inspiring.

The culprits, who gave themselves such nicknames as "wise men," met at a fellow bookclubbers house to assemble a basket of gifts (baby books) as well as diaper the beverages of choice. The atmosphere was festive in preparation with one member singing a verse of "We Wish You a Merry Baby." As the appointed hour grew nearer and the last attorney arrived, the group began to assemble in a line down the sidewalk donned in jackets, gloves and hats, as it was a cold winter's night. In the journey walking two houses down, a verse of "Away in the Manger" was sung by GBC members though the last few lines trailed off without lyric books.

When the hosting couple (a.k.a. the parents-to-be) opened the door, they were greeted with a single crowd of cheering clubbers (not to be confused with a mob). "What did my wondering eyes should appear - you all arrived at the same time; that is so dear!" was rumored to have been said, though cannot be confirmed. As the bottles of diapered wine and juice were presented, our unsuspecting hosts realized that the GBC was in fact throwing a shower, and that this group could be the oddest set of bookclubbers in this town.

Books were unwrapped, photos were taken, toasts were given, and "oohs" and "aahs" were said at appropriate times. It was a happy gathering.

The food was, of course, fantastic with homemade tamales and a now infamous squash casserole to accompany. The cheese course was delicious to begin, and dinner closed with gingerbread and freshly whipped cream.

At some point the club settled in for a long winter's discussion about the readings, noting our favourite passages or poems. The GBC continued the tradition of reading aloud in the round with "Buying Presents" by E.M. Delafield.

As the evening began to wear down and guests were shepherded out the door, there was a sigh and a wave. And to all, a good night.

Active List-ening

It has just occurred to me that I have not completed the readings for bookclub. Hmm, still a bit of time, but I should have heeded my own advice to take advantage of last weekend.

This is the time of year that I am most prone to list-making, list-following, list-amending, and the rare list-losing. Events seem to fill the calendar and, as one occasion passes, I begin to look toward the next. My personal reading seems to suffer during the month in exchange for more social activities [see previous post re: prep-holiday reading in order to be more conversational]. One of the benefits of the festivities is that I usually get a recommended book to add to the spreadsheet; last night's suggestion was The Power of Who: You Already Know Everyone You Need to Know by Bob Beaudine.

Hope you too are having a social month and that you receive a few good book ideas for 2010.

One Assumption

As previously mentioned, our very own GBC Michael (aka GBC F.L. Right) conducted a book signing today at the Mad Platter. Various GBC members were present with a host of savory and sweet treats for snacking during the event.

We are extremely proud of GBC Michael for this endeavor. Assumption Church is one of our oldest neighborhood churches (if not THE oldest - I'll confirm after reading the book), and GBC Michael undertook the labor of love to update its history from 1859.

December Comes Full Circle

It's Friday and Fridays make me happy.

It's the weekend before bookclub, so finish reading. Also think about what fantastic thing you'll bring to our last meeting of the year. If after reflection, you are still at a loss, bring reading water.

It's two days before the Sunday Book Club signing at The Mad Platter where one of our very own members will be signing copies of "Church of the Assumption: 150 years". I am certain if you ask nicely, he will personalize your dedication.

It's the winter before the spring when Elliott Bay Book Company will be moving. I spent one of my best Seattle afternoons in this independent bookstore found, as many of them are for me, by accident on a meandering walk. One of their current recommended books is Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World has Never Seen by Christopher McDougall. This book was also recommended to me by a stranger (who is now not a stranger) while I was waiting on a meal from our local Zackie's a few weeks ago. I do love our neighborhood.

I also love Fridays...

December Discovery

Summary
Yesterday my daily habit of on-line news reading lead me to a magazine which led me to a book list which led me to another website which led me to this post.

Details
The Times is a newspaper site that I frequent three to four times a week for news, and last month I discovered their new monthly environment and science magazine, Eureka. The magazine contains a quiz (see earlier post for previous geek revelation), and last night I was in the mood for Issue 2. I should also let you know that my day began by reading an article shared by GBC Kate on art meeting science from the NY Times which may have influenced my decision to read an old article from a previous Eureka issue on books and science. This October article introduced me to both the Cheltenham Festival series and the inaugural Wellcome Book Prize. The intent of the Wellcome Prize is to "celebrate medicine in literature" and the 2009 short-list of nominees was a selection of titles that I had not seen in previous lists of recommended book reads. The books captured my interest and I wanted to share them with you.

Spanish Tuba

Friday night I was caught in a myriad of holiday event traffic downtown: Rudolf 5K Run, Christmas Parade, events at the Sommet and Ryman, and anyone else who had a craving for a take-out curry. The holidays seemed to be getting in full swing which left me thinking, "What about the tubas?" For several years each December we had a lunch concert of a Tuba Christmas at the downtown Main library and now, with my current schedule, I just might be able to attend. As it turns out, the Merry Tuba Christmas has changed venues and will play December 15 at the First Baptist Church with dual shows at 11 and 12:30.

Despite the change, my visit to our library website in search of a tuba did not leave me disappointed; I learned about Mango (and a selection of Nutcrackers on display but that's just creepy). Our library offers online learning for seven languages and the service has made New York Public Library's "Best of Reference List". I plan to give it a try just for the experience (and the blogging potential).

No Silent Night for Germantown

The weather is cool, crisp and sunny which makes for lovely indoor time this morning. My reading this weekend will be focused on the last three chapters of manuscript review that I began a few weeks ago. (I was reminded by the author that I do have the time to work on this.)

Several of the book clubbers will turn into song clubbers this evening as we peruse the neighborhood caroling in support of the homes tour. Our voice range seems to be as varied as our taste in book genres which should make for a very melodic experience.

Enjoy your weekend; hope you find something that makes you read or sing.

The Choice is Yours (but influenced by me)

I have moved to Nudge and last night completed the second chapter entitled "Resisting Temptation" - apropos for this time of year, wouldn't you agree?

The introduction began with an example of a director of food services who found she could influence lunch item decisions due to product placement on the line (sequence, height, e.g.). I was intrigued. For anyone in the business arena or merely an avid shopper, this news is no surprise, however couple this story with a writing style which includes clever footnotes and a reference to Homer's, "Five Days? But I'm mad now!" when referencing a weapon's purchase, and I want to continue on. It did not hurt my interest level that there was also a short quiz to illustrate automatic verses reflective system thinking. (I do love quizzes.)

Since I'm only one-fifth into the book, I can make no broader statements other than I am interested. We shall see how it goes.

December Unveiled

In the last two days I have finished Reading Lolita in Tehran and jumped through a variety of other books in either searching for answers for knitting questions or for words of sympathy when I had none of my own. Finishing the title left me a bit sad and I am happy there was sunshine to lift my mood when the last pages were turned. Nafisi writes near the book's closing (p.325) that "Other people's sorrows and joys have a way of reminding us of our own; we partly empathize with them because we ask ourselves: What about me?" So it was perhaps with trying to find the "right" words of sympathy.

This is a book that made me want to revisit titles that were either long ago read or perhaps never studied. Daisy Miller and Madame Bovary have been added to my list.

Holly and Goblins and Dickens! (Oh my!)

The end of a holiday weekend and an extremely gray day create the perfect combination for reading (or napping). As we are just over a few weeks away from our monthly meeting, I decided to remove the binder clip and preview our packet of readings lovingly and perhaps cheekily assembled by GBC Bill.

Contents if you're reading along at home:

• "My Christmas Carol" by Budd Schulberg: short story which begins with a Hollywood reference. Nice.
• "Another Christmas Poem" by Wendy Cope: 4 lines and funny.
• "Christmas at Cold Comfort Farm" by Stella Gibbons: I have just recently re-watched the film courtesy of Hulu. Anyone else remember the Starkadders or the woodshed?
• "Buying presents" by E.M. Delafield from The Diary of a Provincial lady, 1930: Burberry mentioned even then
• "Lilliputians at the Malplaquet" by T.H. White from Mistress Masham's Repose: has to be the most unusual of titles we have read since HCBoTA
• Charles Dickens' "The Story of the Goblins Who Stole a Sexton" and "The Pickwickians Celebrate": both though quite old are new to me.

The packet also includes a couple of other holiday poems, and as I now gaze at my sofa covered with stories, perhaps I should have asked if these reading were intended to have been completed in order.

Eggs-actly What I Needed

I have a book entitled Deviled Eggs: 50 Recipes from Simple to Sassy by Debbie Moose. I am fond of the recipes which range from "The Yolk's on You" to "the devil made me do it." (Clearly some of these defer responsibility.) I read through the book and deliberated upon the recipe to use for yesterday's Thanksgiving dinner.

I was having a bit of an nontraditional holiday in that I was spending it with friends rather than my family. Staying local meant that I was to have a meal sitting around a table with a designated chair rather than either standing while eating or using long-ago honed musical chair skills to grab a seat from my 40 or so relatives which would have been gathered at my Aunt's home. Different indeed.

For this meal, I had made several traditional recipes "from scratch" and thought perhaps the deviled eggs may need a bit more flair. What to do?

In the end, after having decided to make nutty sweet rolls for an afternoon snack, I opted for traditional [dirty kitchen+time to eat=safe recipe]. I decided to make them like my parents do. (They each have different techniques so I cannot be more specific.) Two of the other guests also brought dishes that were always included in their annual menus, and I realized as the jello mold was passed, that while some things will and do change, some things can still remain the same.

Things I'm Thankful For

In a somewhat particular order:

• the GBC - my friends and my family
• neighbors
• books
• yoga
• technology
• new experiences and their life lessons
• this journey
• those of you who read this blog on a regular basis (and those of you that don't)

Thank you and Happy Thanksgiving!

Reading Lolita in Tehran in Nashville

I am nearly at the half-way mark in Reading Lolita in Tehran. I am amazed at Nafisi's ability to shift from the world of literature and character studies to her life and experiences while in Tehran, both while at the university and during her meetings with students after her official resignation from teaching. But I think this is her point; literature and her life have these parallels. She has walked me through Lolita and now The Great Gatsby leaving me with my next read to tackle Section III called "James". Some of her sentences have a degree of foreboding, and I continue reading waiting for that moment when something bad will happen. I paused as I typed this last sentence as the first two sections have already been dotted with death and descriptions of dreams lost.

It is difficult for me to imagine a life where I would not be free to read any book of my choosing or one in which I did not have available door delivery from amazon. It is appropriate to have this reminder of my good fortune before tomorrow's holiday.

Why and What

In addition to attending GBC Kim's final defense Friday, I made an excursion to our downtown Main library. I had received an email the day prior that a requested book had become available and was being held for me. When I opened the email, I did not recognize the title and wondered what would have made me wish to read this book. So, I did what anyone would do and (instead of just going to pick up the book), I researched why I had wanted this book.

I checked my handy book spreadsheet and the title was there, but alas, there were no comments. (Note to self: add column for "how I learned about book"). Nearby titles jogged my memory and I was next in search of my travel notebook. Soon, all became clear as the San Francisco Bay! This was among the list of books I had noted while in The Booksmith with my sister last May; as I recall, it was listed as an employee's choice. I had requested it from the library upon my return in June and joined the list of fifteen or so other potential readers and patiently waited through the queue, so patiently in fact, that I had forgotten the book.

So when I arrived Friday, Nudge by Richard H. Thaler and Cass R. Sunstein was awaiting my attention near the front of the building. Not satisfied with checking out only one book, I made a trek to the third floor in search of Reading Lolita in Tehran by Azar Nafisi. (I also was reminded that a call number that begins with "B" is a biography; I really should use call numbers more frequently so I would remember these types of things.) Finally, I picked up another third floor selection: The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali translated by Sri Swami Satchidananda. Three is a good number.

Since Nudge focuses a bit on our poor choices, I decided to start with Reading Lolita in Tehran.

Ph-enomenal D-arling

Soon we will have our first PhD in the GBC. Yesterday GBC Kim defended her thesis and three years of work culminated in an hour of questioning from her committee. [This was actually hour two of the event. Hour one included the presentation and the audience's ability to toss her a few "soft" questions as warm-up. We were then (politely) kicked out for the tough part.] I have not yet had the opportunity to speak with her after learning that she passed, but I would imagine there is a measure of relief and perhaps wonderment of "what next?".

I was fortunate to be able to attend her presentation yesterday. It was really amazing - interesting, funny, clever, logical, shocking at times (due to some of the great quotations), and spot on 40 minutes, her allotted time. GBC T1m did a great job with her Twitterfeed, but I think he would agree with me that it really was impossible to fully capture what an incredible job she did in 140 characters. I felt proud and I am just her neighbor!

GBC Kim, congratulations from your fellow bookclubbers! We are extremely happy for you and I think you've earned the right to pick any book for 2010.

November Clubbing Downtown

On Tuesday evening, the GBC ventured downtown to GBC HeLen's pad for our monthly meeting. Reflecting on the evening, I am certain we did not pause in conversation the entire night. We enjoyed various nibbles pre-dinner and a scrumptious main menu of green salad followed by a seafood pasta. The pecan pie was delicious and congrats to GBC Bill for identifying the secret ingredient. (Of course, I won't tell you here...GBC book code and all.)

Each of us had read the book (always notable) and discussion ranged from character relationships to Holmes to the seance to Lincoln. My favorite moments are those as the meeting begins to wind down when we tend to share personal anecdotes inspired either by the book or the varied topics we have covered during the course of an evening (and several bottles of reading water).

GBC Bill prepared our reading materials for next month; we have a collection of short stories hand-picked for December. Start preparing your reading voice as it is tradition that one of the stories is read aloud in the round.

We also looked a bit forward to January for My Life in France by Julia Child for menu planning. We decided that we each should attempt one dish from Mastering the Art of French Cooking for the meeting. GBC HeLen was voted our stand-in for Ms. Child since she is the tallest.

As you begin to look towards Thanksgiving, remember the words of Ms. Child quoted several times in French Cooking: "Above all, have a good time."

Mid-November

I have been feeling a bit under the weather these last days but last night could have been the turning point. In a conversation earlier yesterday morning, an out of area friend was kind to check on me and said that if he were closer he would drop off ice cream. My, the power of suggestion was strong. Over the course of the next six hours, this tiny strain of an idea would be become the full-fledged rope I was convinced I needed in order to be well. If only I had ice cream...

Luckily, I live in a great neighborhood, and I was convinced that someone nearby would have ice cream. Enter SMS: "Do you have ice cream?" In retrospect, this was probably a vague question to send out to a neighbor, but I was desperate. Finally, I received the magic answer: "No, but I will get you some." [Okay, the magic answer was really a series of texts where I explained I had been really sick and thought ice cream would help. This is a culinary neighborhood and I could have needed ice cream for bananas foster. My neighbors are great but no one is going to trek out in the rain for ice cream for your dessert if they had not been invited to dinner.]

If you are still reading, you might be wondering what this has to do with books. I am getting to that.

In about twenty minutes, the doorbell rang and I had ice cream. Since I was cashless, I moved to the barter system and traded ice cream for Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell. I had read it at some point while traveling this year and knew that my neighbor would probably enjoy it.

I received a text this morning as a review on the book: "it rocks."

Never underestimate the power of books and good neighbors.

November Nods

A collection of short stories is a great thing to have on your nightstand for those times when either sleep is evasive or when odd dreams are frequent. Last night, I moved through two more of the short stories in Holidays on Ice. (After admitting that I had begun the book, I have now lost any guilt of continuing.) These are not your traditional holiday stories though; these are tales of dysfunctional families with some type of odd drama occurring near a holiday which results in an over-the-top behaviour by a family member. Hmmm, maybe they are traditional.

My day reading has been focused on 20th century U.S. Politics so I have quite the contrast to Sedaris.

Balance, or an attempt at balance.

Lucky 13

We have reached that magical time of the bookclub month where each must decide "in or out".

In meaning you have either:

1) read the book, listened to the audio, or watched a movie with similar themes [most of the group]

2) have the book in possession and will donate this upcoming weekend to reading, postponing all nonessential activities until after the meeting in a last-ditch effort to finish the book. Alternatively, you will schedule a long road trip so that you can complete that five-disc audio. This category also includes anyone who is still reading the book at the time of the meeting and usually cries, "Wait, wait, I'm not there yet" if we move too far along in the discussion. [This is usually where GBC Carole (not the singer) and I usually fall.]

Out meaning that you have accepted the fact that you will not read the book due to time constraints, boredom, an incredibly long library queue or book loss. You may even take pride in this rebellious behavior. [GBC nancy]

Technically, we may also have a "skimmer" category: anyone with book commitment issues or who likes to appear well-versed for discussion but is short on time. A skimmer will usually read the last chapter.

Regardless of your choice, the title is Arthur & George by Julian Barnes. See you next week!

Ho-Ho How Could I?

I gave in.

Maybe it was the Christmas tree I saw last weekend at the local Y. Perhaps it was the combination of ornaments, store displays, and the general "red" at Target. It may have been the Charlie Brown Christmas song "Skater" playing from the soundtrack as I purchased a skein or yarn. Regardless, I dived into Holidays on Ice by David Sedaris.

Although I had received this book from a dear friend just before Halloween, I had intended to wait until post-Thanksgiving before perusing the collection of six stories. It seemed the appropriate thing to do. I failed.

The stress of the week and the distinct possibility that I might too have a very odd job for the holidays drew me to the "SantaLand Diaries" like twinkling lights to a mobile home. I hope you understand.

I am not trying to rush events by any means, however if you need a little dose of Christmas laughter before the actual events of the season begin to transpire, I can now empathize (and I might event watch A Christmas Story with you).

November Wallowing

Although I could not have imagined what it must have been like to have been at Brandenburg Gate twenty years ago, I knew even then from my small hometown far removed that it was a significant event. Like many of you, I first heard the news from Tom Brokaw and the NBC Nightly News.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

This morning as I read stories of celebration and reviewed this old footage of the wall, I am reminded of that girl who was, with this event, learning that the world is a much larger space than a small corner in East Tennessee.

As we move toward our historic events with healthcare reform, I feel optimistic that change is ever possible.

Cheers to November

We are one week into November which means your inbox, mailbox, voicemail, or ________ (insert favorite social media ap) will begin to be filled with invitations for various holiday functions. (Basic assumption: you are somewhat sociable.) These upcoming events give each of us the opportunity to meet new friends, reacquaint ourselves with old friends, and show off a bit quoting various items we have very recently read. In order to be sufficiently prepared for the season, you should begin reading new and interesting material in the imminent (nod to GBC K) future.

I would recommend you tailor your preparatory reading to your audience:

• neighborhood parties deserve odd facts, organic recipes or current events
• family meets warrant a review of your cousins's names and family tree (if your family is as large as mine) and a quick read through of Tennessee Home & Farm and
• work events likely bring out conversations regarding financial markets, sports, television programming and kids. Pre-reads may include various articles on work Christmas party social etiquette and your local paper.

Two print options for new information are The Meaning of Everything: The Story of the Oxford English Dictionary by Simon Winchester and Heavy Words Lightly Thrown: The Reason Behind the Rhyme by Chris Roberts. The first book is explained by its title and is useful for a bookish audience who would appreciate the use of pigeon holes for alphabetization. Heavy Words Lightly Thrown is a history of the nursery rhyme and might be interesting for any guests you encounter named Mary, who well, is a bit contrary. Another alternative, if you are short on time would be a visit to "the home of Schott's miscellanies" where you can explore samples of miscellany including a Tea Grading Nomenclature and other small facts.

Regardless of your reading habits, accept those invitations and enjoy time spent with those you like, love, or who pay you.

Books to Music

Tonight Music City USA lives up to its nickname with concerts by both Willie Nelson and Leonard Cohen. GBC members will be in attendance to each event. The Symphony is performing as well so we may have additional Club representation downtown. We do love our music (and our rhinestones).

To echo GBC Paige's email today, Doris Kearns will be speaking at the Main library this Saturday. The talk was billed as "stimulating" so you may not wish to miss.

November Title

I know that GBC Paige & Wordwoman (Not the Singer) have begun our November selection, Arthur and George by Julian Barnes. I have this title as "Completed" in my spreadsheet thanks to neighbor and newest member GBC-C. I am anticipating another lively discussion and wondering if one our members will arrive in character (à la New Year's Eve 2008).

My next week of reading is dedicated to a soon-to-be-published manuscript authored by someone that many of you have met. Start saving for this "Must Have of 2010". (More details soon.)

First of November

As I type, the sun is setting into golden hues, providing a nice autumnal backdrop for the first day of November. My friends and family are beginning to ask about holiday plans and the next few weeks have the potential to rush by in a blur.

One coping mechanism for the stress of the season: David Sedaris. This week I received a copy of Holidays on Ice from a dear friend, and I am already looking forward to that aptly timed moment where I will escape to the "SantaLand Diaries" for a bit of comic relief.

Ghouled Afternoon

It is Halloween and while you might have been expecting some narrative regarding a BOOk, I wAs unins(VAM)PIREd regarding a specific topic. Perhaps I could have expounded about the abundance of PIRATEd media currently available in the market or the GHOSTly, rather ghastly, treatment of the copyright but that is a MONSTER of a topic for a simple Blog. I WAS also going to mention I hope you CARVED out a moment to read Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, if you have not done so already (GBC Tim). So, as you have your conversation BY the sidewAlk with CANDY and ponder in WITCH spot to place your pumpkin, look for that next inspiring idea.

Hope you enjoy THE END of your day!

Writer's Only...

In August, I suggested that you might be interested in Eats, Shoots & Leaves by Lynne Truss if you wanted a grammar review. In truth, I have had this book for a couple of years, but had never actually read it. This week was my turning point for the book. I could write that I finally selected this work because I have been proofreading a bit more than I normally do (which is true), however I think logistics played a more important role. I have not visited our local library in a few weeks so was perusing my bookcase for something not yet finished. (It is like using those random items in your pantry for a meal when you do not want to go shopping. I am guilty of this as well.)

The first fifty pages dedicated to "The Tractable Apostrophe" have been entertaining and include those dry English examples of subtle wit that I have come to adore. Her illustration of "Cyclist's Only (his only what?!)" reminded me of several GBC discussions regarding observed signage in the local area.

Check your apostrophes and don't end up in a comma.

Fall Colors

We are just a few weeks away from the November 17th release of The Original of Laura by Vladamir Nabokov. This "book" was intended to be burned after Nabokov's death and was in fact, 138 unordered index cards upon which various scenes were sketched. In 2008 after over thirty years of reflection, Mr. Nabokov's son, Dmitri Nabokov, agreed to publish the manuscript. The book will also contain reproductions of Nabokov's index cards which can be removed and rearranged to change the story. This addition to the novel was the idea of Chris Kidd, Alfred A. Knopf's associate art director. [Upon reading the ability to shuffle the cards, I wondered if Mr. Kidd was a fan of B.S. Johnson's The Unfortunates which was published in twenty-seven sections with the intention of the middle twenty-five sections to be read in random order; the first and last sections are set.]

For those of you who are Playboy subscribers (for the articles of course), you have the opportunity for the first read of The Original of Laura in the December publication (available November 10th) with a 5,000 word passage.

I was first introduced to Nabokov's writing in my first year of college; his use of color in several works was the subject of a term paper for my Honor English class. I wonder if I still have a copy...

Squash

The content of my mailbox advises me of a change in the air: Holiday catalogs. Crate and Barrel wants me to think of Christmas, Pottery Barn reminds me of Thanksgiving, and Heifer International wants me to consider being an "Ark Angel" (I am not kidding). My alma maters are also reminding me to donate prior to year end.

Perhaps some of you have already made your holiday plans and are on the verge of gift preparations. These catalogs were my first prompts to even consider the holidays, but I feel it is too early. I want to enjoy an autumn day, think about pumpkins and squash, go for walks on crunchy leaves before I make a transition into a festive world of red, gold and green. The last quarter of the year seems to go all too quickly, and right now I am content pondering the number of layers I will need for the day.

Wanted: Cmmercial Wholesaler [sic]

This week I have read a number of job postings which have contained grammatical and/or spelling errors. These mistakes do not bode well for the company image, however should you judge a corporation on an individual error? If you are interested in the position, should you apply and ignore the mistake? Should you contact the company regardless of whether or not interested in the role to advise the poster of their blunder? My HR sources indicate that one should not point out spelling errors during interviews.

So what, then is the appropriate course of action?

1. Ignore. (It is hard to ignore something you have noticed.)
2. Tweet about it.
3. Incorporate the headlines into business lectures.
4. Collect errors and one day publish an award winning business book entitled Spell-binding
5. Advise the company to correct it.
6. All of the above.

The Bookclub Tale

Last night was another great gathering for the GBC Book Club. Special thanks to GBC K for hosting our discussion. Having breakfast for dinner on a cool autumn evening was fantastic, and I think each of us had more than one serving of the delicious egg casserole and cheesy potatoes. The east side of the table was also equally fond of the biscuits and Early's preserves, as well as the mixed fruit. The west side managed the coffee cake and cupcakes. Needless to write, no one left hungry.

Last night we welcomed a new member and drank toasts to the health of three of our missing readers: Safe travels, Get well soon, or Get your work done! (as appropriate - you know who you are)

We had a very healthy discussion of The Thirteenth Tale and were mixed regarding the "Who's Who" of the ending (though we each had our theories). We managed to collectively recount the narrative for those that had not yet finished, leaving room for the imagination and the temptation to finish. It was a very nice read and a lovely evening to be with friends.

Full of October

I turned to poetry this weekend for company during my short travels. My bi-lingual edition of Isla Negra by Pablo Neruda includes an English translation by Alastair Reid. Although the collection of poems are autobiographical and likely should be read consecutively, I enjoyed randomly selecting a work and testing the memory of my Spanish before reviewing the translation in my native tongue. Love, war, friendships, places, emotions and observations are wrapped in a melody of words that captured my attention on a cool autumn day. One of my favorites from yesterday's read was Pleno octubre (October Fullness).

Pablo Neruda was the 1971 recipient of the Nobel Prize for Literature; his Nobel Lecture as well as other bibliographical information can be found here.

Mid-October Muse

I have been in no rush to start a new book. I think this delay is, in part, due to the fact that I have a very special knitting project in the works, and I cannot read and knit at the same time...yet. Secondarily, well, the reason may soon become clear.

My non social-media serious reading (NSMSR) the last two days has been limited to: news items, a sewing machine instruction book (the bottom bobbin is tricky!), and random selections from Light on Yoga before falling asleep. One quotation from the text that has stayed with me this last few days is "The yogi's life is not measured by the number of his days but by the number of his breaths." For me, this meant, take a pause, so I am.

Hopefully this weekend you will discover (or rediscover) something that gives you reason for reflection, and you will find joy in the pause.

October Rambles

Our next meeting is less than a week away, so you may want to take advantage of these rainy days to read The Thirteenth Tale if you have not already had the chance to do so. It is perfectly paired with a cup of cocoa. I am anticipating a delightful evening at GBC K's home.

Today's agenda includes a trip to our downtown library to find a few suitable books for the upcoming weeks. Thank you for the suggestions. If you are in the area, you may want to check out the photo exhibit from Magdeburg, one of our sister cities, which is on display through the 24th at the Main location.

I was remiss in reminding everyone of the Southern Festival of Books last weekend; hopefully you were able to stop by and meet some great people.

Finally, if you are inclined to write about food or drink, the Tennessee Writers Alliance is sponsoring a poetry contest. Details here.

The Reader II

I thought I was an avid reader until last night.

The background: Local softball fall co-ed league which plays each Monday night.

The weather: Overcast gray skies with a sunset behind a storm cloud that looked like a Thomas Kinkade painting. (Please note I am not a fan of Thomas Kinkade paintings, but the light was rather dramatic and this is my best description after only one cup of coffee.)

The players: Mish-mash of persons from Nashville and surrounding areas with a joy of playing a sport that surpasses a desire to win.

The main character, a.k.a the "reader": Our pitcher. (Just makes for the right story, don't you think?)

Timing: Mid-way through the game with our pitcher next up to bat.

The statement which made me re-think reading: "Guess I'd better put my book down and get on deck."

While I had assumed he was keeping track of Monday Night Football, he was actually reading via his iPhone. Incidentally, he had a great night at bat.

What to Read Next?

After spending a day outside in cool fall weather, I have accepted the new season. Now I am in search of the next read to keep me company with a cup of tea. I have a list of books just waiting to be selected like the old toys once stored in our gigantic plastic elephant toy box with the rosy red cheeks (or maybe that was just me). Should I choose a classic? Newly published? Randomly selected by the book's jacket from the library? From my list or off the list? I'm open to suggestions.

Prost!

If you are reading this blog today and live in the neighborhood, we need to have a serious discussion. Go outside and enjoy the street festival!

For anyone else who is outside driving distance, well, go outside and do something that makes you happy. Later, have a nice cold beverage and raise your glass our way.

Sweet October

Have you ever looked at a book you were reading and been conflicted about whether or not you wanted to finish it? Your goal is to finish. You want to finish. Yet, if you race to the end, it's over. That's it. Another story under your belt and well...you do not want to rush it. To me, a book can sometimes be like a decadent dessert at the end of a very fine meal. You know you will order it because you want it. You have been thinking of it since the first course, anticipating a delicious selection, but yet not quite certain the taste your palate will crave. When the dish arrives (likely containing some type of chocolate unless you are GBC Sondra), you take your time between forkfuls, savoring each bite, until you reach an empty dish with a sweet satisfaction that the world is indeed beautiful and each of us is lucky.

Last night, The Thirteenth Tale was my dessert.

The Seventh Tale

By now, you likely know I am a fan of the Man Booker Awards. This year's prize for fiction was awarded to Hilary Mantel for Wolf Hall which is a look at 1500s England and the rise of Thomas Cromwell. (I am certain my sister would enjoy this book.)

In other news, I have begun our October book club selection, The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield. I started reading the book an hour before a meeting yesterday and had to keep a sharp eye on my watch to ensure I did not lose myself in the story. When I finally stopped reading (ending on the chapter "Meeting Miss Winter") so I could review the meeting material, I am certain the receptionist did not hear me sigh. I am presently at the half-way mark and understand GBC Kim's enthusiasm to complete the book.

A sunny day is underway; hope you enjoy it.

October Grays

My plane read yesterday was courtesy of F.L. Right and our September GBC informal book swap/lend. I chose the book based on size and density (like a good engineer), and if you travel frequently, you know this is key for optimal mobility. One of the great things about being in either a book club or a circle of readers is that you will be exposed to books that you would otherwise miss.

I was not familiar with Christoper Rice but I picked up his A Density of Souls for my next travel read. The book was published in 2000 and follows the interactions of four friends as they begin that period of hardship and discovery that we call high school. (Though I haven't checked, I am certain this book made a challenged list somewhere.) The story is somber with a hint at mystery. Moreso, though, it reminded me of those interactions we have in the South where you know that something troubling has happened in a person's past, but you are not certain what that "something" is. Rice does not leave you wondering as you move through the book, and the revelations are generally quite painful. After completing it, I was left with the more general question of whether or not a novel set in New Orleans could ever be cheerful when copious amounts of alcohol and general geography tend to cast a dark shadow. (This link to a January Magazine interview with Rice is also worth a read as Mr. Buchsbaum poses an interesting question regarding Manning which was released around the same time.)

To continue our gray theme for today, I also wanted to share this link to an NPR interview by Terry Gross with Michael Greenberg author of Hurry Down Sunshine: A Father's Story of Love and Madness which was released in paperback last month. One of the quotes which struck me during the broadcast was his "I have diabetes. I have cancer, but I am schizophrenic" referring to identity and illness. I have added this book to my list.

Shelf Space Anyone?

Luckily today, we will have missed the rush.

October 1st was purported as "Super Thursday" in the UK as 800 titles were released for sale. The goal is to maximize distribution during this peak purchase time before the holidays. Imagine the new titles which may (or may not) make our reading lists. Look for an increase in book reviews from all your favorite sources and have a super Saturday.

Challenge for October

You may not have realized that we are in the midst of "Banned Books Week: Celebrating the Freedom to Read" which is held the last week of September, and this year runs September 26th through October 3rd. The American Library Association is one of the sponsors of this week, and its website is full of resources regarding the history of the event and various other statistics regarding challenged authors and books. (We do love math.)

The ALA reports that from 2001 to 2008 just over 3700 books have been challenged with nearly even thirds of these occurring in classrooms, school libraries, and public libraries. The leading challengers were parents in 51% of the cases. Would you be surprised to hear The Kite Runner ranked ninth in the Top Ten 2008? Several of our previous book selections (Golden Compass was fourth for 2007) and many of the "classics" have made the lists. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings is one of the most challenged titles of last decade.

So for October, be daring and add a challenged title to your book list.

Sept Soon Left

My recommendation is to take a walk today. Find a spot to stand, close your eyes, and take a deep breath. (Obviously, be certain that all personal belongings are well secured if you are doing this in a public area.)

I am constantly amazed at the number of "new" details I have noticed on buildings while taking a downtown stroll; these details have, of course, been there for decades. Dates of construction, architectural elements, historic plaques, and various other minutiae are there waiting to be discovered. I will not admit the number of times I walked by the Tribune Tower before I noticed the embedded rock collection with help from my sister.

Reading begins with seeing. Find something to see today.

Fall Fashion

Today's bit of luxury was perusing InStyle Magazine while having a nice shiny coat of "kaberet" applied to my nails. (Think blue rather than red.) I do not hold a subscription to InStyle, but do occasionally read it when I am out and about in the world of various salons (which is infrequent these days) or friends' homes.

I "read" the magazine from front to back in about forty-five minutes with a few takeaways: a camel coat for winter, riding and/or thigh high boots for autumn, and a cape...if you are inclined. I actually own a black wool cape. It is an item that has survived several closet cleanings waiting, I suppose, for just this season. I have spent the last hour or so pondering whether or not I can cut it for a more appropriate length for more frequent wear.

Sometimes reading gets you thinking about things that you may not have considered in some time...like shoulder pads.

September Falls

During the past few days, I been reading patterns instead of books. Although we do not yet have the weather for fall, perhaps just the official passing of the autumnal equinox has been enough to push us into our shorter day habits. GBC Kim has recently mentioned making chili. Many are taking advantage of their coop's bounty by canning or freezing foods for the winter months ahead. I have found myself exploring patterns for scarves or blankets. We are beginning to notice our shorter days and perhaps have already released our sigh in remembrance of summer.

The TACA craft fair approaches, and in a short time, our neighborhood will be in full swing to prepare for Oktoberfest/Street Fest. And perhaps, one day soon, we will even don long sleeves as we make our evening walk through the neighborhood.

Wouldn't You Like to have a Pepper Too?

It was a fortunate series of events which led me to this morning’s kitchen activity and indeed, something I have never done before: blanch and freeze vegetables.

1. A discussion yesterday about what to do with surplus fruit led me to suggest to a friend that she could blanch and freeze watermelon for later smoothies. (I really had no idea if this could be done, but doesn’t it just sound like it could work?)
2. The generosity of this same friend left me with wax beans and a pepper, and my current schedule meant that I would not be able to consume them in the near future.
3. Rising to the surface were childhood memories of my mother canning and freezing all manner of things which were grown in our garden.
4. We had a desire for the food not to go to waste.
5. I have no fear in the kitchen.
6. Oh, and I own a small cookbook collection. I was certain one of these books would give me the instructions for such a task.

The Joy of Cooking did not fail me and in those golden pages in the back, there were instructions for preserving food. With the largest of my three owned pots filled to the brim with water, I began this quest to freeze wax beans and the pepper. The whole process took me less than an hour and by 7:15 a.m., I was done save washing and drying the few dishes I used. (Two bowls, two strainers, pot, knife, and cutting board might constitute more than a “few” to you, but you have not been in the kitchen with me lately.) I also managed to slosh water on my cookbook as I had it perched near my “cooling water”. I decided this page wrinkling was my badge for my first freeze.

The point of this whole excursion and perhaps the reason that I am prompted to write this morning is that I really had no idea how to do this and I will not know if it worked until some point later in the fall when I consume these items. (If the blog ends abruptly, please check on me). By using a book as my guide, I decided to try. The knowledge of others’ success is sometimes just the inspiration we need.

Left Me Flat

I have decided to abandon The World is Flat by Thomas L. Friedman. I have persevered through the two-hundred page mark which included completing his chapter entitled “The Ten Forces That Flattened the World” and am not yet hooked enough to go further (another 365 pages). My adjectives for the book include obvious and dated, however I can see how the read might have been engaging if one had not studied companies such as UPS or Wal-Mart, monitored developments in computing and other technologies, visited China, or worked with international supply chains. (I recognize my background might be a bias here.)

As I have already mentioned, I do not like to quit books. If, however, in six weeks and two hundred pages I am not inspired to continue, I must defer to Mr. Rogers and “know when to walk away.”

Odd Tales

With the weekend upon us and memories of last month's meeting still fresh, it is the perfect time to dive into October's discussion selection, The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield. Several of our members are well into this book which bodes well for next month's meeting.

Due to technical difficulties, I am publishing a bit late. Hopefully you are well into the weekend and a very nice book.

Legends of the Fall

Every GBC meeting is a lot of fun but there are those few, special nights which are highlighted in the annals (GBC Paige's calendar) and reach legendary status in the club. Tuesday was such a night. Our meeting joins DaVinci Code in East Nashville, the “13 by 11” night in our neighborhood, and downtown on the roof under the setting sun to name just a few. The tour of coming architectural changes, the delivery of very special news, the anticipation to discuss the book, and a fantastic late summer menu set the stage for over four hours of discussion, laughter, toasts, and (light) debate.

The venue: Septevius under a delightful rain. Our hosts also assembled a bag of books for exchange; thank you again for my next plane read.

The meal: Locally grown, luscious, red Bradley tomatoes were topped with a light tuna salad in an arrangement that was befitting the beautifully set table. Our host (pictured here) presents his pièce de résistance for dessert. [photo credit: GBC Kim]

The company: Most GBC members were present with the majority having read the book, and one diligent member (guess who) was prepared with reading questions.

The book: Little Brother by Cory Doctorow. (Advice: you can read the book faster and with more enjoyment than listening to the audio version.)

The discussion: Animated, lively, boisterous and at times, just one harmony humming with discussion of favorite characters, technology, security, Internet history, Halo, cameras, and court decisions. It was as if we each were players in our own GBC game and brought to the table our best “weapons” for dialogue.

GBC F.L. Right had the quote for the evening when he noted as we neared meeting’s end, “Sometimes we even discuss the book.”

My Brother is Not Bitter

Our regular meeting is tonight, and I think we are poised for a lively discussion. Thanks again to GBC T1m for his recommendation of Little Brother.

Another September reading for me included Bitter is the New Black by Jen Lancaster which I slipped in during The World is Flat. The book is a memoir describing a woman with a substantial income who loses her job, apartment, and who eventually begins a blog as an outlet to detail some of her exploits. (Despite the fact that this book has absolutely no relevance to present day events, it was an entertaining read.) If you decide to add this to your list, please do read the footnotes.

Jamming

I have just finished Little Brother by Cory Doctorow. This is our book for discussion Tuesday (subtle reminder). GBC P@!ge gave me her copy yesterday and I started reading about 2:00 pm today. Reading was interrupted by one hour of exercising proxy to sign up other neighbors for Germantown Street Fest, otherwise I kept turning the pages. (I hope you like your assigments.)

I was hooked, engaged, and taken back to those university days where I stared at a black screen typing in a series of characters trying to execute a successful code. (I am still eternally grateful to those students who helped me debug those programs.) I am looking forward to the discussion Tuesday night and intrigued as to the menu our host will be pairing with this selection.

P.S. I will be lobbying for GBC handles.

Pa(i)ge One

I thought today's email from GBC Paige was the appropriate note for today. The email is reprinted in its entirety with her permission:

Hello all! Just a reminder that our September meeting is Tuesday, September 15 at Bill's house. 6:00 p.m.

Bill has informed me that as of right now, he just needs folks to bring reading water. Bill or I will let you know if that information changes before Tuesday.

Just as an aside...I pulled out my 2002 calendar (yes, I still have my 2002 calendar!) and found the entry for the first ever Germantown Book Club meeting that I attended on August 27, 2002, at April and Bill's. I remember very clearly receiving a call from April (I don't think I had ever met her in person...I had moved to the neighborhood just a few weeks prior to the meeting) and she told me to "come with some discussion questions". I was nervous! I didn't know what to expect from the group, I didn't know if my reading of the book (I think it was The Girl with the Pearl Earring) was thorough enough, and I didn't know if I was bright enough to participate in an in-depth conversation about literature. My nervousness melted away when I was greeted by and introduced to some of the loveliest people I have ever, or will ever know. The conversation flowed, sometimes about the book, sometimes not, and a wonderful tradition began.

Actually, the tradition originated a month prior. The first meeting I attended was the second-ever meeting of the Club. Though I wasn't there for it, I know that the first Book Club book was The Prodigal Summer by Barbara Kingsolver. If you haven't read it, I recommend it...but if you haven't read Kingsolver's novel The Poisonwood Bible, I would recommend that even more.

September 24, 2002, found us at Nancy's, followed by Milena's house on October 29 (our book was Plainsong). Then November 19, 2002...my first hosting experience. I remember parts of it vividly (and you may too!)...it was the night of my terrible toothache!! No time to be nervous about your first hosting gig when you are in excruciating pain :o) But I survived and December came and we celebrated our last gathering of 2002 at Bill's house on the 17th of the month.

Seven years later and book club is still going strong, and I still look forward to it every month. I feel lucky to be part of something so special. Some of the faces have changed, but I'm still surrounded by some of the loveliest people I have ever, or will ever, know.

Happy Reading!

Thanks GBC Paige, both for this email and for all you do to keep us organized.

Nine Benign Things to do Today

1. Start reading Little Brother (book club next week)
2. Watch a baseball game (nine innings)
3. Start your crossword puzzle by completing 9-Down or 9-Across
4. Donate $9 (or more) to your favorite charity
5. Adopt a cat with nine lives
6. Email or call nine friends that you have not contacted in nine months
7. Explore 9th Avenue South
8. Have dessert at 9:00 p.m. (or a.m.)
9. Read random blog postings about today’s date

Enjoy the day!

School's In for Autumn

This weekend I visited a campus bookstore. I had forgotten the contrast between this University-operated bookstore and well, virtually any other type of bookstore in which I have shopped. Key differences include the obvious: clothing and other gear from car decals to lip balm emblazoned with the school’s logo, slogan, association, etc; textbooks at standard full price; and a grand piano. (As I type, I am actually trying to envision a grand piano in many of those tucked away used bookstores I enjoy frequenting, but it does not work.)

I remember the expense of textbooks each semester and the fight to get one of a few “used” textbooks which may have saved up to $20 each or perhaps more on the full bill. (A student could do a lot with $20.) Thanks to a young woman who talked with an extremely audible tone, I learned there are a few more options for students these days. Both Amazon and Ebay have textbook re-sale sections, and other sites such as Campus Books and Buy Used Textbooks offer discounted rates as well. These might be worth a look and may even save you enough money to buy one or two of those logoed items.

Print Hands

This morning I was able to indulge in what is now an infrequent habit: I read a print newspaper. My usual technique is to keep the paper in its original single fold as long as possible to read all the leading stories. Finally, of course, I will have to give in to get those last few sentences in the crease (usually under a photo), and then the event becomes a game of turning the pages without too much noise and without having the mid-section get out of sorts. (I envision at times, I must look as if I am rowing rather than reading in my quest to keep the paper in tact.) The last page is another easy go, and I usually try to move back to (what I think is) the cool, one-hand newspaper hold (with coffee in the other hand). Wearing glasses whilst reading a paper is even better, but I think I am digressing.

By the end, I usually am a little sad that the paper is finished, unless of course it's a Sunday Times issue and instead, am celebratory that I have managed to complete it in (hopefully) a reasonable amount of time (meaning before the next week's paper). Then, of course, I wash my hands.

Thank you Grantland Rice

In just two short days, we will reach that marker that most of us believe truly represents the beginning of autumn and solidifies our relationships with our alma maters. We will find ourselves reading the sports sections a little more often and observing with keen interest which teams are victors and which manage the upset in those last few seconds. Nicknames emerge, and if we are lucky, legends will be born. Highlights, heartache, and hope will mark the next few weeks as sports fans embrace the college football season.

Sports editors turn focus to their turn of phrase and writers who follow the dreams of athletes will wax poetic on the smallest of details. Even if you are not a sports fan, it is a great time to read an editorial and see if the game comes to life, if just for a moment.

Roll On MegaBeth

Since most of us visit our local library, I wanted to share this CNN link to remind us all that the person who hands us the book might just be (almost) famous.

In the event you are inspired to visit our local talent, visit the Nashville Rollergirls website for event dates and tickets.

Know and Repeat

The good news about having a slow Internet connection is that I have ample time to think. I have renewed interest in The World is Flat due to a conversation with a fellow yogi yesterday. I am pursuing on.

I have also decided to add a few more history books to my spreadsheet of items to read. The inspiration? This morning I was fortunate to attend a Western Civilization lecture at my undergraduate campus. (I don't think I stood out too much, but I do think at least one or two students noticed the slight resemblance that I have to the teacher.) It was nice to sit in class, listen, learn and not worry about what might be on an exam. College is still the same cross-section it was when I attended with a variety of dress and the ever present pony-tail for the “early morning” class at ten. It is nice to see how things change and how things still remain the same.

Differences of Opinion

I finished The Time Traveler's Wife Thursday afternoon and had the opportunity to discuss it with five other women later that evening. It was interesting to see who had read the book and who had instead seen the movie and then compare the likes/dislikes of either media (in relatively general terms since all present had not seen or read). The conversation reminded me that a portion of the joy of reading is the later discussion regarding thoughts and feelings that we each experience when exposed to a work. (Thank you book club.)

I enjoyed the book and think I read it at just the right place in my life. When exploring something new, the "when" is as important as the "what", but of course, you already know that.

The Find in the Garage Box

“I’ve never read a Nancy Drew book”. I gasped when I saw this morning’s email from GBC Paige and then smiled while reading Meg Daly’s review of Confessions of a Teen Sleuth by Chelsea Cain.

Of course I wondered how a child from the ‘70s missed reading Nancy Drew, but then quickly realized if not for my Aunt C, I too would likely have not read the mystery stories. My Aunt is a librarian and loved books. She introduced both my sister and I to numerous worlds beyond our small town. Some of my fondest memories of a child were my Aunt and Uncle driving to our house with boxes of books that were intended to have been destroyed but were rescued and delivered to two eager girls. These days were as good as Christmas, and we never knew what we were going to find for reading material. There were books about states, books about science, Reader’s Digest bound collections, Seasame Street books of cooking, Shakespeare (if you can believe it), Little House on the Prairie, and of course, Nancy Drew. I am certain my mom loved these visits as well, as the house became quiet for a few weeks again as my sister and I devoured the books.

I have a box in the garage of some of these childhood delights; my parents are storing the remainder (thank you) that my sister does not have. This morning I found five Nancy Drew Mystery Stories of four titles; for some reason, I have two copies of The Clue in the Jewel Box. The library markings are still evident though fading and each book has its mark for storage in the “Y” section of the library under “Kee”. Four of them also have their library cards with the signatures of those souls who read these from 1972 to 1981.

I do love reading and I am eternally grateful to my Auntie who helped fuel this habit.

Traveler for Travel

My airport selection left me with The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger. Highlights for me thus far (about 1/4 read) include the setting in Chicago and the fact that the author teaches letterpress printing, which I adore. A visit to her website gave me links to libraries and a cemetery; I regard both of these as a plus.

This is also another example of book to film this summer. I am certain this is yet another reason that the book caught my eye: effective airport marketing combined with small selection. I typically like to have a gap between reading and viewing so that I am not too critical in a film review. Timing is everything.

Tudor Tunes

Change in scenery for some of us this weekend and a change in the weather is certain to arrive soon. Many are already deep into "back to school" mode and some of us have never left. We have several selections of books for the upcoming months to keep us in our reading habits:

September: Little Brother by Cory Doctorow

October: The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield

November: Arthur and George by Julian Barnes

This weekend has left me with an inspiration to revisit the history of Henry VIII as 2009 marks the 500th anniversary of the beginning of his reign. (Obviously, I was a little delayed in this observation).

Two Shall Become One

The BBC reported yesterday that the London Paper has been proposed for closure. This is a free daily evening publication which targeted the commuter audience and provided competition to the AP's London Lite edition. The London Paper reported the general news of the day, sports, celebrity info, and other just weird stuff in addition to the numerous advertisements. Their website proports interesting statistics in the growth of their unique users doubling from January to May of this year and currently holding at just under 600,000. Physical distribution has been about 500,000 copies each month this year.

The paper has been run by News International a UK subsidiary of News Corporation (think Rupert Murdoch). Mr. Murdoch has been in the media of late for his statements related to charging for the news. The London Paper has a 30 day window for discussion during which time the paper will still be published.

What will happen with the printed newspaper? It's such a large question, yet unanswered, muddled with the development of products like the Kindle and our desire for free news quickly contrasted with our nostalgia for the familiarity of the daily paper and the practicality of reading on the trains. For those in smaller markets accustomed to the daily purchased paper, this closure might not be be of interest, but I think these types of events could be an open window to the changes to come in the way we receive our news.

Striking a Balance

I have no doubts that all had a tremendous time at Book Club last night. I am sorry to have missed the event. I am certain that you enjoyed some delightful vegan creations by GBC Kate as well as had lively conversation paired with our familiar reading beverage. I do look forward to hearing the summary of the book discussion, after of course, I finish the book (film).

Last week I learned that a friend had recently acquired a NY Knights jacket. This week, while perusing another friend's library for that next paperback to be devoured these last two days, I discovered The Natural by Bernard Malamud. I believe in signs. For a few hours I lost myself to the joys of baseball and one man's quest "to be the best there ever was in the game." I have long been a fan of the Robert Redford film of the same name and was happy to discover the subtle differences between print and the screen.

So this morning I am left with a couple of thoughts: are we each a "natural" at something and do career/life/non-sport coaches use signs?

How Tweet it is

updated August 21 (formatting only)

For those of you who have pondered writing a book but did not think you had the time, perhaps you should consider publishing through Twitter. As some of you NPR fans no doubt already have heard, Twitterature: The World's Greatest Books in Twenty Tweets or Less by Alexander Aciman and Emmett Rensin will hit our stores in January. (It is likely to be a quick read.) The books included range from the classic read (The Odyssey) to the closet read (Twilight). My guess is that Aciman's and Rensin's work will also be light enough to be included in your carry-on luggage...and perhaps your wallet.

For anyone who doesn't want to wait until January to get a dose of Twitterature, you can try following @epicretold as Professor Sreedharan tweets Mahabharata. You will need to take a long term view with this one.

Untitled (apparently)

Yesterday morning I finished reading Bury Me Standing: The Gypsies and their Journey by Isabel Fonseca. This was a title that was again a reminder that there is so much in the world I have yet to learn. I am glad to have stumbled across this "Recommended by Staff" book.

I have not made much progress with The World is Flat or North and South. (Seems as though I am on a bit of a geographical bent currently.) Perhaps I will still manage these by the end of the month. I have a feeling there are a couple of other yet to be determined paperbacks in my future as well...the last guilty pleasures of summer reading.