Dear "Ladies of the Club" (also one of my favorite books),
I finished and posted on time . . . well . . . close! :) I enjoyed this book as much for its insights into Russian culture as I did for its spy/romance/missionary aspects. (Thanks for choosing it, Gina.) I teach Russian history as part of my World Geography curriculum and it continues to frustrate me that individual Russian citizens don't seem to realize how much good they could do by working together and helping each other. I know that part of the grit-your-teeth, don't-look-right-or-left, life-will-always-be-hard attitude comes from the harshness of the Russian climate and the vastness of its landscape, but it certainly contrasts with the American spirit of optimism. I was so pleased with the few individuals who were willing to risk to help M. Ramsdell. In a country where for centuries "standing out" or "speaking your mind" could mean death or torture, I am not sure we Americans really understand how much in "survival mode" these people were/are.
I was also frustrated with the power of the Russian mafia. "Democracy" in Russia is a shaky proposition at best. Really the one best and brightest hope is the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It is only by changing hearts and minds, by changing how people see themselves and their purpose in life that any lasting, significant change will take place in Russia. Without the gospel, it is too easy to slide back into the desire/need for a totalitarian/authoritarian government to "make" everyone do what is necessary for the good of society.
One last comment . . . I wondered how Ramsdell's first wife felt about the love of his life. He didn't say anything bad about her, in fact he didn't say much about her at all. The only comment I really picked up on was that his son was a good student because of the influence of the first wife. But, I knew a sister in my old ward in Centerville, UT who was married to a spy. The marriage ended in divorce in part because of the stress on the family of a husband who thrived on the clandestine, life-threatening life of a spy. The dissolution of Ramsdell's marriage was a story that I know he didn't want to go into, but I would really be interested in hearing his first wife's side. (Just a thought.)
--Karen
Thursday, May 17
Saturday, May 12
Train wreck
Hello ladies,
I was unable to read the book for this month; I got to it too late this time. I do have the next book ready for me, though, so I look forward to posting on that one.
Thanks for your understanding!
Danielle
I was unable to read the book for this month; I got to it too late this time. I do have the next book ready for me, though, so I look forward to posting on that one.
Thanks for your understanding!
Danielle
Train to Potevka - Katie
I will admit, during the first few pages of this book I was thinking to myself "this guy really isn't a writer." And, technically, he's not. He is, however, a storyteller. Once I got used to the writing, I was thoroughly drawn into his story. And the jumps in the story that bugged me at first, became part of what made him a good storyteller. Who doesn't, in the middle of telling a story, jump into some back story to better explain the current story? I do. And to Mike's credit, sometimes I don't even make it back to my original story.
Maybe it's because I'm a child/teen of the 80's, but I am intrigued by everything KGB, USSR, etc. And I wanted to be one of the first missionaries to Russia that I took a Russian class at BYU after hearing a talk given by M. Russell Ballard (of of the LDS apostles) prior to Russia opening to LDS missionaries, where he "suggested" that "if you want to be called to Russia, learn Russian. Alas, it didn't work. That said, I liked (with a touch of envy) the part of the book *SPOILER ALERT* where Mike meets the missionaries and is so overjoyed. And I was touched to see Mike's love and compassion for the Soviets - our former "enemies." However, it was quite sad to see the distrust that the citizens had toward everyone - even their neighbors.
Although this book is categorized as "fiction," we know it really happened, right? I am amazed at Mike's strength and willpower. Of course, I don't know what I would really do in his situation, but after major injuries and no food for days? I'm dying to find out how that package really made it to the safe house in Potevka.
This is the first "spy" novel I've read where the hero kneels down in prayer to his Heavenly Father - in that occupation, shouldn't they all? ;-)
And the young boy who helped get Mike and the missionaries into McDonald's? Didn't Mike (see how I'm on a first name basis with the author?) say this boy's story was "another story?" Where is that other story? I want to know it. And a word about McDonald's - I'm telling you, even in France, McDo's (as they call it, pronounced "McDough") is always teeming with people. And, everything I go to France, my friends take me there... like it's a big treat.
Thanks, Gina. I'm glad I read this one.
Maybe it's because I'm a child/teen of the 80's, but I am intrigued by everything KGB, USSR, etc. And I wanted to be one of the first missionaries to Russia that I took a Russian class at BYU after hearing a talk given by M. Russell Ballard (of of the LDS apostles) prior to Russia opening to LDS missionaries, where he "suggested" that "if you want to be called to Russia, learn Russian. Alas, it didn't work. That said, I liked (with a touch of envy) the part of the book *SPOILER ALERT* where Mike meets the missionaries and is so overjoyed. And I was touched to see Mike's love and compassion for the Soviets - our former "enemies." However, it was quite sad to see the distrust that the citizens had toward everyone - even their neighbors.
Although this book is categorized as "fiction," we know it really happened, right? I am amazed at Mike's strength and willpower. Of course, I don't know what I would really do in his situation, but after major injuries and no food for days? I'm dying to find out how that package really made it to the safe house in Potevka.
This is the first "spy" novel I've read where the hero kneels down in prayer to his Heavenly Father - in that occupation, shouldn't they all? ;-)
And the young boy who helped get Mike and the missionaries into McDonald's? Didn't Mike (see how I'm on a first name basis with the author?) say this boy's story was "another story?" Where is that other story? I want to know it. And a word about McDonald's - I'm telling you, even in France, McDo's (as they call it, pronounced "McDough") is always teeming with people. And, everything I go to France, my friends take me there... like it's a big treat.
Thanks, Gina. I'm glad I read this one.
Saturday, April 14
Twilight - Karen Buxton
Okay, so I may have been the first person to finish the book ( I just
couldn't put it down, and we were on Spring Break, so I didn't have
to.), but I'm the last person to post. Like most of you, I LOVED
IT! As soon as I finished it, I got in the car and went to buy New
Moon. I've read everything that there is to read on S.M.'s website,
and fantisized about how much fun it would be to go to the
Twightlight Prom. My husband has even read the books because I read
outloud to him in the car while were were traveling. I haven't been
so engrossed in a book since the last Harry Potter book came out.
Anyway, enough about how much I loved the books.
I believe that the reason that the love story is so appealing is
because it reminds us of what new love feels like. It was fun to be
a teenager again even though I was annoyed at times by how stupid
Bella can be. I too fell in love with Edward. He's so noble and
patient.
I too, have spent time wondering if becoming a vampire would be too
great a sacrifice. Living on the earth forever is appealing in
someways, and not so appealing in other ways. I can understand her
wanting to be with him forever, and not wanting to grow old while he
stayed young, but always looking so young would have it's
disadvantages also. Edward had two doctorate degrees, but no way to
do anything with them.
As for him being in her room watching her sleep...I couldn't help but
wonder if he was ever turned off by her morning breath, and the sleep
in her eyes.
I really don't have anything to say that hasn't already been said.
Thanks for the great selection! I can't wait until August. I'll
have to re-read the first two in July in preparation.
couldn't put it down, and we were on Spring Break, so I didn't have
to.), but I'm the last person to post. Like most of you, I LOVED
IT! As soon as I finished it, I got in the car and went to buy New
Moon. I've read everything that there is to read on S.M.'s website,
and fantisized about how much fun it would be to go to the
Twightlight Prom. My husband has even read the books because I read
outloud to him in the car while were were traveling. I haven't been
so engrossed in a book since the last Harry Potter book came out.
Anyway, enough about how much I loved the books.
I believe that the reason that the love story is so appealing is
because it reminds us of what new love feels like. It was fun to be
a teenager again even though I was annoyed at times by how stupid
Bella can be. I too fell in love with Edward. He's so noble and
patient.
I too, have spent time wondering if becoming a vampire would be too
great a sacrifice. Living on the earth forever is appealing in
someways, and not so appealing in other ways. I can understand her
wanting to be with him forever, and not wanting to grow old while he
stayed young, but always looking so young would have it's
disadvantages also. Edward had two doctorate degrees, but no way to
do anything with them.
As for him being in her room watching her sleep...I couldn't help but
wonder if he was ever turned off by her morning breath, and the sleep
in her eyes.
I really don't have anything to say that hasn't already been said.
Thanks for the great selection! I can't wait until August. I'll
have to re-read the first two in July in preparation.
Thursday, April 12
Twilight
Ladies,
I decided to post my review before I read the others, so I apologize in advance if I am repeating. When I first realized that this was a "vampire story," I called KT because I am not a vampire-story-fan like my husband (and I found out last week, my son, Eric). She told me I would love it and she was right. Rod & I actually competed with each other to see who would get to read it. (I guess I should have bought a copy for each of us!) I bought New Moon as soon as I was done and finished it on the way to and from Chicago last weekend and Rod is just about done with New Moon as I write :) I will be passing both books on to Eric & Carolyn.
Now for my thoughts (I have so many) and some of Rod's as well. First, when I bought this at Barnes & Noble, it was in the teen section, so I wanted to look at it as a work of adolescent literature. It is so relevant to that audience: the insecurities, the struggle to fit in, the who-am-I-really stuff, the what-people-see-on-the-outside-isn't-really-who-I-am, etc. My middle school students are all of the characters. In addition, Rod made the connection with Edward's struggle to control his vampire instincts to an adolescent boy learning to control his sex drive. I thought Bella's lack of understanding of what she did to Edward when she kissed him "like that," is like my teen-age girl students who drive my teen-age boy students crazy! They think they know what they are doing, but they really haven't got a clue!!
It isn't just "kid lit," however. The struggles of all of the Cullens are so instructive. Carlisle faced it first when he decided that just because he WAS a vampire, he didn't have to BEHAVE like one. Isn't that what an alcoholic has to decide? How about someone who is challenged by same sex attraction? How about someone who has been abused, but wants to break the cycle? To a lesser degree, all of us have "thorns in the flesh," things that we are born with or ways that we are "wired" that we can either give in to or learn to overcome. I thought Meyer did a great job of developing her characters so that you feel their struggles and you see their victories.
Her characters are complex. When I told Eric I was reading a vampire story that I thought he might like, his reaction was reserved. The first question he asked was, "Is the vampire the bad guy?" When I told him, "Not really," (I didn't want to give away too much), he told me he hated vampire stories that made them out to be totally evil because he found them to be interesting characters. I guess that is part of what draws me to Meyer's characters. They aren't perfect, neither are they totally evil (with the exception of James who chilled me to the core).
And then there's Bella . . . it will be hard for me to separate Twilight from New Moon. I can't tell you how frustrated I was with the dumb, dangerous things she did. However, that penchant for danger is what allows her to fall in love with a vampire, so I really can't complain. It's just hard to watch, when I really believe the instruction that we should stay as far away from the edge of the cliff as we can in life, instead of seeing how close we can get to it. But she is heroic in so many ways, that I have to admire her independence and her willingness to take risks.
And finally, I am an incurable romantic . . . I want this to have a happy ending. But, how? I'd like to gloss over the issues and hope that they just make her a vampire so she can be with Edward. But, Rod and I were just talking about this tonight. She won't just become like the Cullens instantly. She would have to learn how not to give in to what every instinct is driving her to be . . . someone who kills people and drinks their blood. She abhors that reality. And then there is the issue of her mother and father. That really isn't one to take lightly. I'll tell you what Rod thinks has to happen: He thinks the only really happy ending would be for Carlisle, with his hundreds of years of medical training, to find a cure so that Bella and Edward could be together as mortals. Otherwise, the Cullens have to violate their own ethics and Bella has to place her soul in jeopardy.
I can't wait for August. :) Twilight was a great choice!!!
--Karen Smith
I decided to post my review before I read the others, so I apologize in advance if I am repeating. When I first realized that this was a "vampire story," I called KT because I am not a vampire-story-fan like my husband (and I found out last week, my son, Eric). She told me I would love it and she was right. Rod & I actually competed with each other to see who would get to read it. (I guess I should have bought a copy for each of us!) I bought New Moon as soon as I was done and finished it on the way to and from Chicago last weekend and Rod is just about done with New Moon as I write :) I will be passing both books on to Eric & Carolyn.
Now for my thoughts (I have so many) and some of Rod's as well. First, when I bought this at Barnes & Noble, it was in the teen section, so I wanted to look at it as a work of adolescent literature. It is so relevant to that audience: the insecurities, the struggle to fit in, the who-am-I-really stuff, the what-people-see-on-the-outside-isn't-really-who-I-am, etc. My middle school students are all of the characters. In addition, Rod made the connection with Edward's struggle to control his vampire instincts to an adolescent boy learning to control his sex drive. I thought Bella's lack of understanding of what she did to Edward when she kissed him "like that," is like my teen-age girl students who drive my teen-age boy students crazy! They think they know what they are doing, but they really haven't got a clue!!
It isn't just "kid lit," however. The struggles of all of the Cullens are so instructive. Carlisle faced it first when he decided that just because he WAS a vampire, he didn't have to BEHAVE like one. Isn't that what an alcoholic has to decide? How about someone who is challenged by same sex attraction? How about someone who has been abused, but wants to break the cycle? To a lesser degree, all of us have "thorns in the flesh," things that we are born with or ways that we are "wired" that we can either give in to or learn to overcome. I thought Meyer did a great job of developing her characters so that you feel their struggles and you see their victories.
Her characters are complex. When I told Eric I was reading a vampire story that I thought he might like, his reaction was reserved. The first question he asked was, "Is the vampire the bad guy?" When I told him, "Not really," (I didn't want to give away too much), he told me he hated vampire stories that made them out to be totally evil because he found them to be interesting characters. I guess that is part of what draws me to Meyer's characters. They aren't perfect, neither are they totally evil (with the exception of James who chilled me to the core).
And then there's Bella . . . it will be hard for me to separate Twilight from New Moon. I can't tell you how frustrated I was with the dumb, dangerous things she did. However, that penchant for danger is what allows her to fall in love with a vampire, so I really can't complain. It's just hard to watch, when I really believe the instruction that we should stay as far away from the edge of the cliff as we can in life, instead of seeing how close we can get to it. But she is heroic in so many ways, that I have to admire her independence and her willingness to take risks.
And finally, I am an incurable romantic . . . I want this to have a happy ending. But, how? I'd like to gloss over the issues and hope that they just make her a vampire so she can be with Edward. But, Rod and I were just talking about this tonight. She won't just become like the Cullens instantly. She would have to learn how not to give in to what every instinct is driving her to be . . . someone who kills people and drinks their blood. She abhors that reality. And then there is the issue of her mother and father. That really isn't one to take lightly. I'll tell you what Rod thinks has to happen: He thinks the only really happy ending would be for Carlisle, with his hundreds of years of medical training, to find a cure so that Bella and Edward could be together as mortals. Otherwise, the Cullens have to violate their own ethics and Bella has to place her soul in jeopardy.
I can't wait for August. :) Twilight was a great choice!!!
--Karen Smith
Friday, April 6
Twilight Thoughts
I too love this book and I read New Moon as soon as I finished Twilight. I hate starting a series before it is finished. I am so impatient waiting for the next book! Hopefully August will come quickly. :)
First of all- I moved to the Seattle Area from sunny California in the middle of high school. Unlike Bella though I did not find Seattle depressing and dark. It actually rains more in the Midwest than it does in Seattle. I was a little offended by her negative Northwest comments but I got over that quickly. :) I love the characterizations in this book. Bella is great. She is so passionate and focused and dramatic and drawn to the dangerous. Totally 17. I get a little annoyed - like Laurenda- that she doesn't understand the thirst or that when Edward talks about making mistakes he is talking about people dying. It is more evident in New Moon that she just doesn't really get what it means to be a Vampire for all of her desire to be one. She sees Edward and his family and how powerful they are and how beautiful they are and wants that but doesn't understand the price that Power and Beauty comes at. I love her insecurities about how she looks. Stephanie M. doesn't overdo them they are just right. Bella just kind of takes for granted that she is not as beautiful (although it is pointed out in the book that she is much more beautiful than she realizes). My favorite description of Edward is in the meadow when he tells her that he is the perfect predator. He is attractive(bait) and fast and deadly. I wondered at his intentions with her in the meadow. It seems amazing to me that someone with one hundred years to mature would fall in love with a 17 yr old- even one as self-less as Bella. BUt now he has saved her too many times. I think he is noble and genuine but still deadly. I want them to have a happy ending but I'm not sure how - since becoming a vampire is not the best idea for Bella. It will be interesting to see how it all plays out.
I love love love the way that Alice sees the future. I love that it changes from decision to decision rather than staying firm. It's perfect. It is so true to life that our outcome relies on the decisions that we make- sometimes seemingly inconsequential decisions can change our whole future because of the chain of little decisions that result.
On a funny note, I thought it interesting that when first describing the Cullens Stephanie M. describes the dark circles under their eyes and then continues to describe how unhumanly beautiful they are. I think it gives hope to all moms or students with no sleep that you can be unhumanly beautiful and have dark circles under your eyes. :)
I wonder how much if anything should be read into the dark skinned hot Indian/werewolf vs. pale white cold refined/vampire. It is set up to be good vs evil but she twists it so that there is no good side or bad side. It is unclear still who is the monster- if anyone. Everyone has the capability to be a monster or to control the monster. Bella is a monster to her Dad when she throws her Mom's words back in his face. She chose to let the monster out for his protection. The men on the street in Port Angeles who almost attack Bella are monsters and just as dangerous to Bella as Edward. Edward chose to unleash his monster for a while in his youth but only on Human Monsters. Which begs the question of is there a place and time when it is appropriate to act monstrously? Or is it just a slippery slope? It seems that over and over again when the characters act monstrously they just create more problems and more hard questions for themselves. Edward stopped being a monster because he wasn't sure if he was avting any better than the people he killed. He wasn't sure if his victim's intended victim would look on him as a savior or as an equal threat. Bella keeps trying to sacrifice herself to take away the danger and causing more danger. I can't wait until the third book to see the direction that Stephanie takes it. I love that I can't predict it.
I love the flow of this book, the passionate force behind it and the characterizations. Even her two-dimensional characters- like Jessica and Mike- are interesting. Well, Bella's interactions with them are interesting which makes them interesting. This is my kind of fateful romance.
First of all- I moved to the Seattle Area from sunny California in the middle of high school. Unlike Bella though I did not find Seattle depressing and dark. It actually rains more in the Midwest than it does in Seattle. I was a little offended by her negative Northwest comments but I got over that quickly. :) I love the characterizations in this book. Bella is great. She is so passionate and focused and dramatic and drawn to the dangerous. Totally 17. I get a little annoyed - like Laurenda- that she doesn't understand the thirst or that when Edward talks about making mistakes he is talking about people dying. It is more evident in New Moon that she just doesn't really get what it means to be a Vampire for all of her desire to be one. She sees Edward and his family and how powerful they are and how beautiful they are and wants that but doesn't understand the price that Power and Beauty comes at. I love her insecurities about how she looks. Stephanie M. doesn't overdo them they are just right. Bella just kind of takes for granted that she is not as beautiful (although it is pointed out in the book that she is much more beautiful than she realizes). My favorite description of Edward is in the meadow when he tells her that he is the perfect predator. He is attractive(bait) and fast and deadly. I wondered at his intentions with her in the meadow. It seems amazing to me that someone with one hundred years to mature would fall in love with a 17 yr old- even one as self-less as Bella. BUt now he has saved her too many times. I think he is noble and genuine but still deadly. I want them to have a happy ending but I'm not sure how - since becoming a vampire is not the best idea for Bella. It will be interesting to see how it all plays out.
I love love love the way that Alice sees the future. I love that it changes from decision to decision rather than staying firm. It's perfect. It is so true to life that our outcome relies on the decisions that we make- sometimes seemingly inconsequential decisions can change our whole future because of the chain of little decisions that result.
On a funny note, I thought it interesting that when first describing the Cullens Stephanie M. describes the dark circles under their eyes and then continues to describe how unhumanly beautiful they are. I think it gives hope to all moms or students with no sleep that you can be unhumanly beautiful and have dark circles under your eyes. :)
I wonder how much if anything should be read into the dark skinned hot Indian/werewolf vs. pale white cold refined/vampire. It is set up to be good vs evil but she twists it so that there is no good side or bad side. It is unclear still who is the monster- if anyone. Everyone has the capability to be a monster or to control the monster. Bella is a monster to her Dad when she throws her Mom's words back in his face. She chose to let the monster out for his protection. The men on the street in Port Angeles who almost attack Bella are monsters and just as dangerous to Bella as Edward. Edward chose to unleash his monster for a while in his youth but only on Human Monsters. Which begs the question of is there a place and time when it is appropriate to act monstrously? Or is it just a slippery slope? It seems that over and over again when the characters act monstrously they just create more problems and more hard questions for themselves. Edward stopped being a monster because he wasn't sure if he was avting any better than the people he killed. He wasn't sure if his victim's intended victim would look on him as a savior or as an equal threat. Bella keeps trying to sacrifice herself to take away the danger and causing more danger. I can't wait until the third book to see the direction that Stephanie takes it. I love that I can't predict it.
I love the flow of this book, the passionate force behind it and the characterizations. Even her two-dimensional characters- like Jessica and Mike- are interesting. Well, Bella's interactions with them are interesting which makes them interesting. This is my kind of fateful romance.
Wednesday, April 4
Twilight: Completely obsessed now...sigh.
Well, it's just been about forever since I posted. Please accept my apologies.
Okay, that being said, I just have to say I really really really enjoyed Stephenie Meyer's Twilight! (and yes, I finished New Moon, too, but I'm re-reading Twilight even now because I zipped right through it the first time--much like the Harry Potter books!). And can I just say, I'm so glad we are "talking" about it because no one else around here has read them. Let me amend that: Both Twilight (currently #6 in paperback) and New Moon (currently #1 chapter book) are on the NYTimes Best Seller list for "Children's Books". When I called my local bookstore to try to get a copy, he asked me if I was doing it for school! I guess it's on a reading list for several schools in the area. So, I should say that my local peers have not read it, though it is, after all, an ALA Reluctant Reader book as well. Now I see why!!!! Regardless, I finally found a copy at a bookstore in a mall...it was their last one. I had a sense that it would be good simply because I couldn't get my hands on a copy (and they were all out at the libraries I looked into!)!
ANYWAY. You should know this about me: the topic of vampires has FREAKED me out since I was 5 when, for whatever reason, I was up past beditme and caught a tidbit about vampires in the movies (this should be a huge lesson to me on what I let my girls see when I've got the tv on to some random thing). Suffice to say, my childhood was spent with me sleeping with the covers UP TO MY CHIN and my blankets in a type of cocoon around me (as if a monster couldn't just rip them right off...but I digress). Many a night I was awakened by the desperate need to use the bathroom, but I wouldn't get out of bed for fear that some loathesome creature would get me if I left my cocoon before the sun shone. Ugh. It's true. So with that in mind...
You should also know that this has not kept me from being strangely drawn to this topic. I, too, was an avid Buffy/Angel viewer. However, I never read any of Anne Rice's stuff because of the topic. So when I saw all the connections, I was like, Yeeks! But I was having a bad day and I was already so far behind with book club, I just took the plunge back in. And I'm so glad, because I really liked both books, even though they are what I would call, "Pee Your Pants Good." What I mean by this is that they were so good that I a) couldn't put them down and b) had some of that childhood fear tapped into and so found myself getting up to nurse my baby in the middle of the night walking to her room with a little faster step in the darkened hallways. Ridiculous, I know. But true. (New Moon is scarier to me, though).
The book has been likened to Romeo and Juliette, and I do appreciate that romance and suspense (in fact, LOVED it...favorite scene was when they were in the field...and I liked the baseball stuff before the visitors arrived, then I got freaked out!!!!!!). But I have to admit, I do have *some* problems. For instance, Bella always seems to need rescuing, bless her beating heart. AND, she does dumb stuff (granted, it gets the plot moving and gives a reason to rescue her, but still!) DUMB DUMB DUMB stuff--like walking alone/not paying attention to her surroundings with the warehouse scene, going by herself to face James, cliff diving (in New Moon) to name a few. I know in Fablehaven, I too was annoyed when young Seth kept disobeying...wasn't Bella doing the same thing in a way? But like I said, it did add to the romance part of "The Damsel in Distress" and I appreciated her desire to keep those she loved "safe"...but still. Also, I thought it was very convenient of Charlie to be so...distantly busy with sports and fishing.
BUT, here's my biggest bugaboo, which I'm sure will be touched upon at some point: Bella's desire to become a vampire. I TOTALLY see where she is going with this (because she LURVES him!!!! She doesn't want to appear old without him. He is her world and visa versa and yadayadayada), but I'm with Edward. I don't think she should be so hasty--at all. What makes her think that she would be a vampire with the same determination as the Cullens to be a "vegetarian"? Why would she not choose to be more like Laurent, James and Victoria? Nature vs Nurture? Hmmmm. I read the first chapter of "Midnight Sun" which is Twilight from Edwards perspective and it shows how much Edward really struggles with his vampire nature (totally a must-read if you haven't already). I don't think Bella appreciates this. Her idea to just "be changed" is rather symbolic. Like anything where the "grass is always greener", we don't fully comprehend the consequences, good and bad, until we sometimes force the issue.
Loved the writing throughout--each character had a voice and a personality that you wanted to get to know better (well, maybe not everyone, but you know what I mean). I really liked the names she picked, too. LOVED the names Esme and Carlisle, have to say. And Edward. I was really on the edge of my seat and even rereading it now, I'm still so pleased with the pacing of Twilight (New Moon is a bit more sluggish, but I didn't really care). I have to say, if you haven't already been to her website, she's a very generous author there as well. She has "outtakes" from Twilight (like where Edward sees her for the first time when they are going to Prom) that may make your inner romantic and fan "sqee!" with delight. :)
Thanks again for suggesting the book. August seems far far away. At least we have Harry in July. :)
Okay, that being said, I just have to say I really really really enjoyed Stephenie Meyer's Twilight! (and yes, I finished New Moon, too, but I'm re-reading Twilight even now because I zipped right through it the first time--much like the Harry Potter books!). And can I just say, I'm so glad we are "talking" about it because no one else around here has read them. Let me amend that: Both Twilight (currently #6 in paperback) and New Moon (currently #1 chapter book) are on the NYTimes Best Seller list for "Children's Books". When I called my local bookstore to try to get a copy, he asked me if I was doing it for school! I guess it's on a reading list for several schools in the area. So, I should say that my local peers have not read it, though it is, after all, an ALA Reluctant Reader book as well. Now I see why!!!! Regardless, I finally found a copy at a bookstore in a mall...it was their last one. I had a sense that it would be good simply because I couldn't get my hands on a copy (and they were all out at the libraries I looked into!)!
ANYWAY. You should know this about me: the topic of vampires has FREAKED me out since I was 5 when, for whatever reason, I was up past beditme and caught a tidbit about vampires in the movies (this should be a huge lesson to me on what I let my girls see when I've got the tv on to some random thing). Suffice to say, my childhood was spent with me sleeping with the covers UP TO MY CHIN and my blankets in a type of cocoon around me (as if a monster couldn't just rip them right off...but I digress). Many a night I was awakened by the desperate need to use the bathroom, but I wouldn't get out of bed for fear that some loathesome creature would get me if I left my cocoon before the sun shone. Ugh. It's true. So with that in mind...
You should also know that this has not kept me from being strangely drawn to this topic. I, too, was an avid Buffy/Angel viewer. However, I never read any of Anne Rice's stuff because of the topic. So when I saw all the connections, I was like, Yeeks! But I was having a bad day and I was already so far behind with book club, I just took the plunge back in. And I'm so glad, because I really liked both books, even though they are what I would call, "Pee Your Pants Good." What I mean by this is that they were so good that I a) couldn't put them down and b) had some of that childhood fear tapped into and so found myself getting up to nurse my baby in the middle of the night walking to her room with a little faster step in the darkened hallways. Ridiculous, I know. But true. (New Moon is scarier to me, though).
The book has been likened to Romeo and Juliette, and I do appreciate that romance and suspense (in fact, LOVED it...favorite scene was when they were in the field...and I liked the baseball stuff before the visitors arrived, then I got freaked out!!!!!!). But I have to admit, I do have *some* problems. For instance, Bella always seems to need rescuing, bless her beating heart. AND, she does dumb stuff (granted, it gets the plot moving and gives a reason to rescue her, but still!) DUMB DUMB DUMB stuff--like walking alone/not paying attention to her surroundings with the warehouse scene, going by herself to face James, cliff diving (in New Moon) to name a few. I know in Fablehaven, I too was annoyed when young Seth kept disobeying...wasn't Bella doing the same thing in a way? But like I said, it did add to the romance part of "The Damsel in Distress" and I appreciated her desire to keep those she loved "safe"...but still. Also, I thought it was very convenient of Charlie to be so...distantly busy with sports and fishing.
BUT, here's my biggest bugaboo, which I'm sure will be touched upon at some point: Bella's desire to become a vampire. I TOTALLY see where she is going with this (because she LURVES him!!!! She doesn't want to appear old without him. He is her world and visa versa and yadayadayada), but I'm with Edward. I don't think she should be so hasty--at all. What makes her think that she would be a vampire with the same determination as the Cullens to be a "vegetarian"? Why would she not choose to be more like Laurent, James and Victoria? Nature vs Nurture? Hmmmm. I read the first chapter of "Midnight Sun" which is Twilight from Edwards perspective and it shows how much Edward really struggles with his vampire nature (totally a must-read if you haven't already). I don't think Bella appreciates this. Her idea to just "be changed" is rather symbolic. Like anything where the "grass is always greener", we don't fully comprehend the consequences, good and bad, until we sometimes force the issue.
Loved the writing throughout--each character had a voice and a personality that you wanted to get to know better (well, maybe not everyone, but you know what I mean). I really liked the names she picked, too. LOVED the names Esme and Carlisle, have to say. And Edward. I was really on the edge of my seat and even rereading it now, I'm still so pleased with the pacing of Twilight (New Moon is a bit more sluggish, but I didn't really care). I have to say, if you haven't already been to her website, she's a very generous author there as well. She has "outtakes" from Twilight (like where Edward sees her for the first time when they are going to Prom) that may make your inner romantic and fan "sqee!" with delight. :)
Thanks again for suggesting the book. August seems far far away. At least we have Harry in July. :)
Tuesday, April 3
How had I never read Twilight before?
Amanda and I have this unspoken rule when buying books - if words like "erotic" or "sensual" are used to describe the book; it's probably not something we want to read. Being a HUGE fan of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel, I was drawn to this book. Amanda and I were at the book store together when we picked it up, then put it back down... I think the word "seductive" on the back may have frightened me away, or maybe it was the comparison to Anne Rice (I threw away Interview with a Vampire). However, when Michelle announced this book and mentioned the author had gone to BYU, I felt safer. How I loved this book.
I was immediately drawn to the characters - Stephenie M. has a fabulous talent of bringing her characters off the page and into my imagination. And, like Gina, although I am several years out of high school, I totally related to many of the characters - good writing can do that. I think that's why Buffy and Angel were so successful as well because, although the heroine was in high school/college, the themes of the series hit home for teenager and adult alike.
I kept waiting for "that phrase" in the book that would sound so "Mormon." But it never came. If I didn't know Stephenie M. was LDS, I would never have guessed it from the book. That's not to say that she was raunchy, as some authors can be. I was quite pleased with the clean language, lack of sex, etc.
I told Amanda that I was going to wait for the sequel(s) to be out in paperback before I bought them, but I was so drawn into Bella's and Edward's lives, that as soon as I finished Twilight, I drove to the nearest bookstore and bought New Moon. I was in Seattle at the time, and it was a good thing I rented a GPS unit with my car so I could find the nearest Borders. Eclipse is out in August, I'm so excited.
Maybe it's just me, but even though Stephenie M. brings her characters to life, I have a hard time picturing Edward. Maybe he's too perfect? I am totally in love with him. So, now I'm looking for a combination of Mr. Darcy and Edward Cullen. Yummy.
Just an aside - Amanda found some other vampire/werewolf books that take place in her hometown. Coming off the Twilight and New Moon high, I bought the first book - it's called Moon Called by Patricia Briggs. Fascinating story line, but what I found most fascinating were some attributes of the main character - she kneels to pray at night, she doesn't like foul language; she doesn't like crosses to symbolize Christ. So, jokingly, Amanda and I wondered if the author was LDS. I found her website, and a blog from her husband mentioned their son on a mission in Cleveland or something. So, my guess is that she is LDS. So, if any of you are interested in some other cool fantasy stories, Moon Called is followed by Blood Bound, both very interesting.
I was immediately drawn to the characters - Stephenie M. has a fabulous talent of bringing her characters off the page and into my imagination. And, like Gina, although I am several years out of high school, I totally related to many of the characters - good writing can do that. I think that's why Buffy and Angel were so successful as well because, although the heroine was in high school/college, the themes of the series hit home for teenager and adult alike.
I kept waiting for "that phrase" in the book that would sound so "Mormon." But it never came. If I didn't know Stephenie M. was LDS, I would never have guessed it from the book. That's not to say that she was raunchy, as some authors can be. I was quite pleased with the clean language, lack of sex, etc.
I told Amanda that I was going to wait for the sequel(s) to be out in paperback before I bought them, but I was so drawn into Bella's and Edward's lives, that as soon as I finished Twilight, I drove to the nearest bookstore and bought New Moon. I was in Seattle at the time, and it was a good thing I rented a GPS unit with my car so I could find the nearest Borders. Eclipse is out in August, I'm so excited.
Maybe it's just me, but even though Stephenie M. brings her characters to life, I have a hard time picturing Edward. Maybe he's too perfect? I am totally in love with him. So, now I'm looking for a combination of Mr. Darcy and Edward Cullen. Yummy.
Just an aside - Amanda found some other vampire/werewolf books that take place in her hometown. Coming off the Twilight and New Moon high, I bought the first book - it's called Moon Called by Patricia Briggs. Fascinating story line, but what I found most fascinating were some attributes of the main character - she kneels to pray at night, she doesn't like foul language; she doesn't like crosses to symbolize Christ. So, jokingly, Amanda and I wondered if the author was LDS. I found her website, and a blog from her husband mentioned their son on a mission in Cleveland or something. So, my guess is that she is LDS. So, if any of you are interested in some other cool fantasy stories, Moon Called is followed by Blood Bound, both very interesting.
Monday, April 2
Oh, Dear Twilight, what did you do to me?
When Katie told me that this book was about vampires, I immediately thought, “Oh great... fantasy. How am I going to get through that book?”
The joke was on me. I was pleasantly surprised how I got sucked into the story. The author’s goal (as stated in the back cover) was to create situations of impossible fantasy, and then add characters so deeply human that their perspectives make the situation believable. Of course the order was reversed. She gave us Bella first... the most human high school transfer in the universe. Her thoughts were in parallel with some of mine at that age when I would switch schools. I related to her.
THEN came Edward.
I never suspected that at my age and status, I’d be swept back to high school and given the opportunity to vicariously fall in love for the first time all over again! Can I just say that I am in love with Edward Cullen? All vampireness aside, he is amazing. Granted he’s had nearly a century to perfect himself, but wow, I wouldn’t mind having him for dinner (pun intended).
I’ve read a 500 page book and the story was so good, so detailed, so emotional, that it feels like my own memories… a blur of memories. I thought I would be able to give a detailed review, but I can’t. Plain and simply, this book is captivating. I am worn out from reading it, I was so wrapped up in it... but alas, I want to read New Moon as fast as I can. Not something I predicted.
Stephanie Meyer is an amazing talent. What a debut she’s made here!
Credible… I never thought I’d find fantasy credible.
The joke was on me. I was pleasantly surprised how I got sucked into the story. The author’s goal (as stated in the back cover) was to create situations of impossible fantasy, and then add characters so deeply human that their perspectives make the situation believable. Of course the order was reversed. She gave us Bella first... the most human high school transfer in the universe. Her thoughts were in parallel with some of mine at that age when I would switch schools. I related to her.
THEN came Edward.
I never suspected that at my age and status, I’d be swept back to high school and given the opportunity to vicariously fall in love for the first time all over again! Can I just say that I am in love with Edward Cullen? All vampireness aside, he is amazing. Granted he’s had nearly a century to perfect himself, but wow, I wouldn’t mind having him for dinner (pun intended).
I’ve read a 500 page book and the story was so good, so detailed, so emotional, that it feels like my own memories… a blur of memories. I thought I would be able to give a detailed review, but I can’t. Plain and simply, this book is captivating. I am worn out from reading it, I was so wrapped up in it... but alas, I want to read New Moon as fast as I can. Not something I predicted.
Stephanie Meyer is an amazing talent. What a debut she’s made here!
Credible… I never thought I’d find fantasy credible.
Wednesday, March 28
Twilight...
Hello, it is me again. I am seeing that if I don't just do all of these blogs at the same time, I procrastinate and we are well into our third book past the one I need to write about. In any case, here we go...
I really enjoyed this book. My sister handed me this book and said that I shouldn't read the back cover until after because it would give away the story. Well, I was glad that I didn't read it. I found the discovery to be delightful and interesting. I related to "Bella" from the first. I moved from the place I lived my whole life and went to an "alien planet" when I started high school. A person really feels out of place and awkward especially at that age. Because of that, you can really be drawn to those that are more on the outskirts of already existing cliques. I think that is one of the reasons why she felt so drawn to Edward but so hurt when he was all freaky in their science class and then didn't show back up for a week. Edward and his "family" were not part of the main stream popular people and Bella wasn't even fitting in with them...devastating!
I really liked the vampire background. The idea that there were "good" vampires and some that wanted to be good but were having a hard time was really fun. Of course there are the religious themes that can be read in...(correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't Stephanie Meyer go to BYU?) but I wasn't lost in them. I was a good take on a "bad" person or people really trying to make a go of it to be "good!
I like Edward's character. I think he is valiant and honorable especially in regards to Bella...let alone for the last hundred years. He wants to do the right thing, but really what is to say the right thing is to do? Bella really likes him, and he likes her. Unfortunately, there is about 100 or so years that divide them and so what does one do in that situation? I will be interested to find out what Bella chooses and what Edward allows... Only the next volumes will tell! I suppose I will have to sneak Katie's copy to find out, but really, isn't that what she expects me to do?
Have a great day!
Michelle
I really enjoyed this book. My sister handed me this book and said that I shouldn't read the back cover until after because it would give away the story. Well, I was glad that I didn't read it. I found the discovery to be delightful and interesting. I related to "Bella" from the first. I moved from the place I lived my whole life and went to an "alien planet" when I started high school. A person really feels out of place and awkward especially at that age. Because of that, you can really be drawn to those that are more on the outskirts of already existing cliques. I think that is one of the reasons why she felt so drawn to Edward but so hurt when he was all freaky in their science class and then didn't show back up for a week. Edward and his "family" were not part of the main stream popular people and Bella wasn't even fitting in with them...devastating!
I really liked the vampire background. The idea that there were "good" vampires and some that wanted to be good but were having a hard time was really fun. Of course there are the religious themes that can be read in...(correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't Stephanie Meyer go to BYU?) but I wasn't lost in them. I was a good take on a "bad" person or people really trying to make a go of it to be "good!
I like Edward's character. I think he is valiant and honorable especially in regards to Bella...let alone for the last hundred years. He wants to do the right thing, but really what is to say the right thing is to do? Bella really likes him, and he likes her. Unfortunately, there is about 100 or so years that divide them and so what does one do in that situation? I will be interested to find out what Bella chooses and what Edward allows... Only the next volumes will tell! I suppose I will have to sneak Katie's copy to find out, but really, isn't that what she expects me to do?
Have a great day!
Michelle
Second Glance
Hello, ladies... late, but posting.
I have to say that I was disappointed in this book. And although I thought the writing was spectacular, I got lost in the all the details and all the people. I had trouble really getting into the book and it wasn't until about the last quarter of the book was I really drawn into the story. I was sad about this because I so got into her other book that we read in book club...My Sister's Keeper.
I struggle with the eugenics studies. Not that I think that there is some superior race and that all others need to be esentially done away with, by any means, but on the idea of not being able to have children and needing to go with fertilility treatments or invetro fertilization. Would I want to know if there were any physical defects in the embryo before it is emplanted? What would I do? I have never been faced with that situation, but I found those questions to be the ones that resonated most with me. Crazy, I know.
I realize that Jodi Picoult has more books out than I thought. I will be interested to read more of her stuff. Perhaps this one was just a fluke for me or I wasn't in the right mind frame to read it...that is highly possible. In any case...thanks for the choice!
Michelle
I have to say that I was disappointed in this book. And although I thought the writing was spectacular, I got lost in the all the details and all the people. I had trouble really getting into the book and it wasn't until about the last quarter of the book was I really drawn into the story. I was sad about this because I so got into her other book that we read in book club...My Sister's Keeper.
I struggle with the eugenics studies. Not that I think that there is some superior race and that all others need to be esentially done away with, by any means, but on the idea of not being able to have children and needing to go with fertilility treatments or invetro fertilization. Would I want to know if there were any physical defects in the embryo before it is emplanted? What would I do? I have never been faced with that situation, but I found those questions to be the ones that resonated most with me. Crazy, I know.
I realize that Jodi Picoult has more books out than I thought. I will be interested to read more of her stuff. Perhaps this one was just a fluke for me or I wasn't in the right mind frame to read it...that is highly possible. In any case...thanks for the choice!
Michelle
Thursday, March 15
Second Glance - Gina's late take
Okay, I thought this would be a quick read like any other book I've read. It ended up being the longest I've ever taken to read a book. Maybe it was the slow first half, maybe it was the fact that I was thinking too hard on each sub-chapter of the book which slowed my reading. I have to admit, though, that this author is very good at giving you just enough information to keep you questioning your own conclusions as you go. I didn't like her "poetic" metaphors especially in the first chapter. "Slow as a Ballerina" when referring to the railroad track arms coming down, made me laugh. A bit corny but as the book went on it happened less.
I liked Karen's review of the book. She really summarized it well on how all the characters lives intertwined. I think this is the first book I've read that was this complex with connecting all the characters. It is very evident that Jodi did her homework on eugenics, genetics, toxemia, XP and CSI details. I loved how credible the whole story was, but Danielle made a good point that the ending came together a little TOO perfectly.
I wasn't extremely bugged by Az's death because the guy was indeed 102. The murder mystery was solved and all was set right... he didn't need to hang around any longer. I felt he recognized he and Meredeth lived in two different worlds and wouldn't necessarily keep in touch like she intended to. I personally think it would have been a strained relationship.
Every book I read I like to walk away with a quote from it that will continue to inspire me. Here is the excerpt that really got me to the core:
I liked Karen's review of the book. She really summarized it well on how all the characters lives intertwined. I think this is the first book I've read that was this complex with connecting all the characters. It is very evident that Jodi did her homework on eugenics, genetics, toxemia, XP and CSI details. I loved how credible the whole story was, but Danielle made a good point that the ending came together a little TOO perfectly.
I wasn't extremely bugged by Az's death because the guy was indeed 102. The murder mystery was solved and all was set right... he didn't need to hang around any longer. I felt he recognized he and Meredeth lived in two different worlds and wouldn't necessarily keep in touch like she intended to. I personally think it would have been a strained relationship.
Every book I read I like to walk away with a quote from it that will continue to inspire me. Here is the excerpt that really got me to the core:
"Heroes didn't leap tall buildings or stop bullets with an outstretched hand; they didn't wear boots and capes. They bled, and they bruised, and their superpowers were as simple as listening, or loving. Heroes were ordinary people who knew that even if their own lives were impossibly knotted, they could untangle someone else's. And maybe that one act could lead someone to rescue you right back."
~Ross Wakeman
Sunday, March 11
Second Glance
Ladies,
I've read the reviews already posted and have to admit, I was more "hooked" on this book than some reviewers were. I started it on Saturday, March 3, knowing that finishing by the 5th would be difficult, but I found that I could hardly put it down. I finished by the 7th, even though I should have been working on school stuff. Sorry I didn't find the time to post until today :(
Anyway, if "love across time" is the professed theme of the book, I found myself really intrigued by what I think is the real theme of the book: who gets to make the choice about living and dying and on what basis should the choice be made? (This, you may remember, was also part of our earlier Jodi Picoult selection, My Sister's Keeper. I wonder if this is something that is in more of Picoult's books.) As the technology that allows us to "play god" increases, when do (or should) we have the right to use it?
Ross tries to kill himself to join Aimee who died by accident. Lia tries to kill herself, while her husband is busy preventing the "unfit" from ever living at all. She succeeds in dying to be with her infant who doesn't die, but lives. Ethan has a "defect" that is going to end his life and he wants nothing more than to live a "normal" life. Shelby chose not to have an abortion and as a result, gave Ethan the chance for life, even if it will only be a short life with great challenges. Meredith was saved from death by Ross. Meredith almost aborted Lucy but chose not to and it was in trying to save Lucy that Ross dies. (Katie, I'm like you . . . I about threw the book across the room when I thought Ross was going to be dead--permanently.) And then there's Gray Wolf who weaves in and out of all of their lives as one identity "dies" and another takes its place.
Speaking of Gray Wolf . . . his suicide is the part of the book that I hate! I suppose it wrapped things up nicely for him to join Lily (his love), Lia (his daughter) and Lily (his granddaughter)in the afterlife, but he had a great-granddaughter (Meredith) and a great-great-grandaughter (Lucy) who had a right to know him, even if briefly. Destroying the eugenics records (such arrogance!) and the pain they represented was very symbolic, but Gray Wolf didn't need to drown himself to do it. (At one point, I thought he was going to burn the records and I was afraid he might accidently set off the dynamite. But, I could have handled his accidental death much better than having him choose to throw away his life!)
I did enjoy the message that came from the interconnectedness of the lives of the characters. What each of us does has an impact on others, even if we don't see it at the time. This book was a great choice! I thoroughly enjoyed it.
--Karen
One more thing, I wish she hadn't pandered to the publishing industry by including the "f" word and the sexual references. It didn't enhance the book or make it more "real." Someday . . .
I've read the reviews already posted and have to admit, I was more "hooked" on this book than some reviewers were. I started it on Saturday, March 3, knowing that finishing by the 5th would be difficult, but I found that I could hardly put it down. I finished by the 7th, even though I should have been working on school stuff. Sorry I didn't find the time to post until today :(
Anyway, if "love across time" is the professed theme of the book, I found myself really intrigued by what I think is the real theme of the book: who gets to make the choice about living and dying and on what basis should the choice be made? (This, you may remember, was also part of our earlier Jodi Picoult selection, My Sister's Keeper. I wonder if this is something that is in more of Picoult's books.) As the technology that allows us to "play god" increases, when do (or should) we have the right to use it?
Ross tries to kill himself to join Aimee who died by accident. Lia tries to kill herself, while her husband is busy preventing the "unfit" from ever living at all. She succeeds in dying to be with her infant who doesn't die, but lives. Ethan has a "defect" that is going to end his life and he wants nothing more than to live a "normal" life. Shelby chose not to have an abortion and as a result, gave Ethan the chance for life, even if it will only be a short life with great challenges. Meredith was saved from death by Ross. Meredith almost aborted Lucy but chose not to and it was in trying to save Lucy that Ross dies. (Katie, I'm like you . . . I about threw the book across the room when I thought Ross was going to be dead--permanently.) And then there's Gray Wolf who weaves in and out of all of their lives as one identity "dies" and another takes its place.
Speaking of Gray Wolf . . . his suicide is the part of the book that I hate! I suppose it wrapped things up nicely for him to join Lily (his love), Lia (his daughter) and Lily (his granddaughter)in the afterlife, but he had a great-granddaughter (Meredith) and a great-great-grandaughter (Lucy) who had a right to know him, even if briefly. Destroying the eugenics records (such arrogance!) and the pain they represented was very symbolic, but Gray Wolf didn't need to drown himself to do it. (At one point, I thought he was going to burn the records and I was afraid he might accidently set off the dynamite. But, I could have handled his accidental death much better than having him choose to throw away his life!)
I did enjoy the message that came from the interconnectedness of the lives of the characters. What each of us does has an impact on others, even if we don't see it at the time. This book was a great choice! I thoroughly enjoyed it.
--Karen
One more thing, I wish she hadn't pandered to the publishing industry by including the "f" word and the sexual references. It didn't enhance the book or make it more "real." Someday . . .
Sunday, March 4
Second Glance - Karen Buxton
Second Glance was a good read, but not so much for me to be a page
turner. Although, I did find myself going about my daily duties trying
to puzzle out the mystery, so evidently, it did hold my interest. I
agree with Katie that J.P. gave us just enough info to be able to
figure certain things out, but still had some surprises. The thought
that Merideth was the other person involved in the wreck didn't occur
to me until she was on the verge of revealing it. It took me a while
also, to figure out that Az Thompson and Grey Wolf were one and the
same. I appreciated the research of the history that was presented. I
wasn't aware of how widespread the belief in eugenics was. Had things
turned out differently, my family line would have been done away with.
I believe that our generation has be raised to be more openminded and
accepting. I guess that the Hippy movement wasn't such a bad thing.
Thanks for a thought provoking and interesting selection. I'm looking
forward to the next one.
turner. Although, I did find myself going about my daily duties trying
to puzzle out the mystery, so evidently, it did hold my interest. I
agree with Katie that J.P. gave us just enough info to be able to
figure certain things out, but still had some surprises. The thought
that Merideth was the other person involved in the wreck didn't occur
to me until she was on the verge of revealing it. It took me a while
also, to figure out that Az Thompson and Grey Wolf were one and the
same. I appreciated the research of the history that was presented. I
wasn't aware of how widespread the belief in eugenics was. Had things
turned out differently, my family line would have been done away with.
I believe that our generation has be raised to be more openminded and
accepting. I guess that the Hippy movement wasn't such a bad thing.
Thanks for a thought provoking and interesting selection. I'm looking
forward to the next one.
Friday, March 2
Second Glance
I will say that I liked this book better than the last Jodi Piccoult book we read. I mentioned to Amanda that Jodi's (yup, we're on a first name basis) books seem to always wrap up nicely at the end - everything fits - sometimes I like that, sometimes I don't. This time, I liked it. SPOILER ALERT - When Ross died at the end, I about threw the book across the newsroom in NYC.
The book was written in such a way that, I think, the author lets you "figure out" some information, but not so much that you'll stop reading. For example, I knew that Lia was a ghost from the first time Ross met her. However, what I didn't figure out is that she was Cecilia Pike. But hey, maybe I'm just not too bright.
The eugenics aspect really upset me. Mr. Pike and Lia's father drove me up the wall. There is NOTHING in this world that angers me more than close-minded, prejudiced people. I had never heard anything about eugenics (except, of course, Darwin's survival-of-the-fittest theory). So, I did some research. In the 1930's, such respected people as George Bernard Shaw, H. G. Wells, Winston Churchill, Henry Ford, and Theodore Roosevelt embraced this theory. Hitler was the downfall of eugenics in the late 30's. However, it is a theory still pursued today. I googled eugenics and found too many websites, but one (www.eugenics.net) with papers written as recently as 2005.
Looking forward to hearing others' opinions - plus hearing posts on Twilight.
The book was written in such a way that, I think, the author lets you "figure out" some information, but not so much that you'll stop reading. For example, I knew that Lia was a ghost from the first time Ross met her. However, what I didn't figure out is that she was Cecilia Pike. But hey, maybe I'm just not too bright.
The eugenics aspect really upset me. Mr. Pike and Lia's father drove me up the wall. There is NOTHING in this world that angers me more than close-minded, prejudiced people. I had never heard anything about eugenics (except, of course, Darwin's survival-of-the-fittest theory). So, I did some research. In the 1930's, such respected people as George Bernard Shaw, H. G. Wells, Winston Churchill, Henry Ford, and Theodore Roosevelt embraced this theory. Hitler was the downfall of eugenics in the late 30's. However, it is a theory still pursued today. I googled eugenics and found too many websites, but one (www.eugenics.net) with papers written as recently as 2005.
Looking forward to hearing others' opinions - plus hearing posts on Twilight.
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