What are you reading?

[Veronica]

Spring break is nearly upon us, which means I will have time to read. I'm looking for suggestions. My tastes are pretty varied - I like George RR Martin and I enjoyed Physics for Future Presidents. :D

What are you currently reading? I recently read Secrets of a Happy Marriage , which I really liked, and The Magician's Assistant.

Thanks for your suggestions!

Veronica

[Irulan]

I am currently rereading a series called The Saxon Tales by Bernard Cornwell. He writes really fine historical fiction with good storytelling, characters that you connect too, and period accuracy. The particular series is set around 870 AD, in the reign of Alfred the Great, and follows the story of Uthred, a Saxon, whose father, Lord of Bebbanburg, is killed in a raid by the Danes when he is 10. He is raised by the Danes but ultimately swears loyalty to Alfred. He becomes a warrior and plays both sides of the fence with ultimate goal in mind to get his fortress back from his uncle who usurped it.

Each book is based on actual events and battle during the reign of Alfred. I find I connect with the stories and the characters. This is real historical fiction, not romance novel pretending to be historical. If you are watching Vikings on History Channel right now, these books are set in the same time period-ish, but have their English history a little more accurate.

[Wahine]

Well, I'm in the middle of Game of Thrones series, which you've read. It takes me forever to get through a book these days since I don't have much free time and I'm tired when I start reading so I'm lucky if I make it through 20 pages before I fall asleep.

I just finished reading And The Mountains Echoed by Khaled Hosseini. It was excellent. And I recently read Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese. Also exceptionally good.

Some time (maybe a year from now after I'm done with George RR Martin) I'll have to check out the Saxon series. I really enjoy historical fiction.

[Sky King]

Just finished "The Invention of Wings" By Sue Monk Kidd - great historical fiction.

Picking up "We are Water" today as soon as the library opens.

I will also look at the Saxon series.

Thanks for the thread

[shootingstar]

I just finished American Shaolin by Matthew Polly. It's about a (white) American who lives for 2 years in China's famous centuries old birthplace of kung fu, Shaolin Temple in the mountains. It's a great book for insight on the whole world of traditional kung fu training, techniques, fighting and cross-cultural stuff, also life among kung fu acolytes, skirmishes, the women they sneak around with. (Yea, sure. Monks. Maybe some of them.)

Yes some of the manoeuvres are true..breaking bricks over head, etc. But it does result in some abnormalities....

The author later...seems to leverage his knowledge for....um MM fighting. (which I never get excited watching that stuff). The author does prepare, by learning Chinese in advance..which makes a difference what he writes and the level of detail he can recount conversations, jokes with the monks.

If you like a book that blends cross-cultural living, travel and a sport that the rest of the world doesn't yet understand ...but want to learn more about sport that is both athleticism, art and (a bit) meditation.

[salsabike]

I just finished "Americanah" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, which I loved. Just starting "We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves" by Karen Joy Fowler, and am rereading Josephine Tey's "Brat Farrar", an old favorite.

And Chris and I both loved "The Goldfinch".

[Veronica]

I read Goldfinch at Thanksgiving break - really liked it.

If you like short stories, Machine of Death and This is How You Die are really good.


Veronica

[salsabike]

Those short stories collections sound totally cool! Just bought Machine of Death on kindle--thanks.

I have also fallen wildly in love with audiobooks, which are a new source of steady income for a lot of really great actors. Audiobooks can bring some books vividly to life that haven't worked for me as well in text. Chris listened to the audiobook for "The Goldfinch", and I will probably listen to it someday. I read it on the kindle. And I have a little crush on Boris from that book. Just couldn't HELP myself. :)

Oh, yes. I am also reading all of Daniel Woodrell's books. He is the author of "Winter's Bone", which I loved. He paints his own world of the Ozarks beautifully, and it's a world most of us don't know. I like his writing very much.

[thekarens]

Janny Wurts Curse of the Mistraith and Seanan McGuire Discount Armageddon. I'm also listening to The Lord of the Rings on Audible for the 100th time. It's rare when I don't have multiple books going at once.

[Donna1960]

The Forgotten Garden Kate Morton ....AWESOME!

[OakLeaf]

I may already have mentioned Against the Grain: How Agriculture Has Hijacked Civilization, by Richard Manning. It's fascinating, and actually a much easier read than my long slog through it suggests, it's just that I haven't had a lot of energy for nonfiction lately.

I read We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves over the winter, and really loved it. Americanah is on my list to read sooner than later ...

Seanan McGuire is a recent guilty pleasure of mine, too. For those who haven't read her, she's sort of a cross between Janet Evanovich and Men in Black (except with "monsters" aka cryptids instead of aliens). :D

Just finished Jennifer Government by Max Barry. A darkly funny neoliberal dystopia.

[salsabike]

I loved Jennifer Government! I keep hoping for a sequel. Seanan McGuire sounds like a hoot.

[ny biker]

I'm another who doesn't have much time to read these days. I started An Astronaut's Guide to Life on Earth by Col. Chris Hadfield after Christmas, but haven't finished yet.

I'm actually thinking of getting a Kindle or other e-reader/tablet, in the hopes it will get me to read more. I tend to play games on my phone while I'm watching TV during dinner and before I go to bed. With a tablet maybe I'll catch up with Words with Friends and then turn off the TV and read instead of playing solitaire.

[rebeccaC]

Just finished Margaret Atwood’s ‘MaddAddam’, the finale of that trilogy. A friend who knew of my reading about native american's and the early california missions recommended "The Orenda" by James Boyden about the jesuit's and first nations of canada which is my next read.

[emily_in_nc]

I am almost through with a remarkable book my mother bought me for Christmas.

The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane by Katherine Howe

If you like historical works concerning the 17th century Salem witch trials, rare books, and libraries, you'll probably enjoy it.

[emily_in_nc]

The Forgotten Garden Kate Morton ....AWESOME!

This was already on my "want to read" list on Goodreads. Can't wait to read it!

[emily_in_nc]

The three-book series based on fictional diaries of Josephine Bonaparte by Sandra Gulland. Loved, loved, loved these and wished this series never had to end!

http://www.amazon.com/The-Josephine-Bonaparte-Collection-Sorrows/dp/0743246217/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1396749484&sr=8-2&keywords=sandra+gulland+josephine+b

[Wahine]

Nice recommendation!

[Crankin]

I read a lot, but if you asked me what, I'd say, duh? I cannot ever remember the titles, let alone the authors of books. So, I have my Amazon window open here, so I can tell you guys what I've read. I belong to Women's Adventure Magazine's Book Group, so my current reading reflects this. Been reading a lot of non fiction, too.
Sugar in the Blood: A Family's Story of Slavery and Empire by Andrea Stuart
Bold Spirit: Helga Etsby's Forgotten Walk Across America by Linda Lawrence Hunt
Long Distance: Testing the Liits of Body and Spirit in a Year of Living Strenuously, by Bill McKibbon
I Promise Not To Suffer: A Fool for Love Hikes the Pacific Crest Trail by Gail Storey
Motherland: Beyond the Holocaust: A Mother Daughter Journey to Reclaim the Past by Fern Schumer Chapman
When I Found You by Catherine Ryan Hyde

[shootingstar]

I haven't read a fiction book over at least last 10-15 yrs. Considering the fact that I'm an English lit. grad (1 of my degrees), it's strange. It's almost as if I just can't be bothered to "imagine". (Shrug, but writing a blog means imagining and composing a lot of stuff in your head before you finalize a blog post.)

Having been reading in fits : Mavericks: An Incorrigible History of Alberta. Yea, I would have never read a book like this 20 yrs. ago. And yea, it is a history that is quite different from British Columbia and Ontario. Until I started to live away from the city where I grew up, I had very little interest in history.

[withm]

I recently went on an Ann Patchett spree and read Truth and Beauty, Secrets of a Happy Marriage, and The Patron Saint of Liars. I have previously read Bel Canto, and State of Wonder. I highly recommend them all.

I've had a lot of time to read the last few months, plus I always have a book going on CD in the car since I am in the car for 1 to 2 hours each day. The last few books I've either read or listened to, that I would recommend are

The Signature of All Things - Elizabeth Gilbert

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry - Rachel Joyce

The People on Privilege Hill - Jane Gardam (short stories) Really, all of Gardam's books are delightful.

The Bell Ringers - Henry Porter (political thriller that is not so far fetched)

The Big House - A century in the life in an American summer home - George Howe Colt (Anyone who has been part of a family summer home will appreciate this)

[Catrin]

Thanks for bringing this thread back to life! For some reason I am on a Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett spree. Just downloaded/borrowed Gaiman's "Neverwhere" and Pratchett's "Men at Arms" to my Nook.

I've also reserved The Bell Ringers at my library for when the book is checked in, thanks for the recommendation Withm!

Wanted to go trail running this afternoon, but I coughed so much at my usual crazy group workout this morning that I've chosen to stay home and rest. Again :( This HAS to go away eventually! Oh well, at least I feel well enough to exercise, it is just getting over the cough. I feel great otherwise!

[lph]

Do do do read Gaimans latest, the Ocean at the End of the Road. I looooove Gaiman. And it was beautiful.

[Catrin]

Do do do read Gaimans latest, the Ocean at the End of the Road. I looooove Gaiman. And it was beautiful.

Thanks for the recommendation LPH! I've only read one of his books before now (American Gods) and have considered reserving all of his works from my library and reading them in order. Does it really matter in which order I read his books? I thought if I read them in publication order that I would have the benefit of watching his style evolve. Unsure why I like him so much, but I really did enjoy American Gods.

[Veronica]

Gaiman won a Newberry (best American children's book of the year) for The Graveyard Book. It's a little creepy for children's lit., but when you consider that all Disney's main characters are missing at least one parent and often both... it doesn't seem so weird.

Veronica

[lph]

I wouldn't say it makes any difference which order you read them in, but they're quite different. American Gods is pretty heavy going compared to some of the others. I didn't like it that much first time around, but after having read his lighter and easier stuff like Stardust and the short stories I appreciated it much more and read it again. "Ocean" is my favourite so far, and the Graveyard Book, childrens book or not :-)

[Catrin]

I wouldn't say it makes any difference which order you read them in, but they're quite different. American Gods is pretty heavy going compared to some of the others. I didn't like it that much first time around, but after having read his lighter and easier stuff like Stardust and the short stories I appreciated it much more and read it again. "Ocean" is my favourite so far, and the Graveyard Book, childrens book or not :-)

This is good to know, and I think I've read some of his short stories over the years. I almost checked out the Graveyard Book before Neverwhere and will read that and Ocean next. There appears to be a book that Gaiman and Pratchett collaborated, trying to find a copy of that one :)

[OakLeaf]

The collaboration between Gaiman and Pratchett is called Good Omens and it is HILARIOUS. I actually re-read it this past fall.

I enjoyed The Ocean at the End of the Lane too, but I think American Gods is my favorite of what I've read of his. Didn't care so much for Neverwhere, haven't read Stardust but considering the movie I'd like to get around to reading it, also enjoyed his collection of short stories called Fragile Things.

[salsabike]

Do do do read Gaimans latest, the Ocean at the End of the Road. I looooove Gaiman. And it was beautiful.

Yeah, I thought so too!

[SheFly]

As an English major and voracious reader, I am embarrassed to admit that I haven't even heard of most of these books! I'm strictly (almost) a pulp fiction reader - I want something that will entertain me, and that I can easily escape into. Basically, I want a TV show without TV (I once had an English professor who said that novels should be like TV for the mind. I guess it stuck). So, I read Kristen Hannah, Sandra Brown, Elin Hildebrand, Jodi Picoult, Anita Shreve, Chris Bohjalian... I do like to read New England-based authors - makes it slightly easier to envision the location of the story.

I do deviate on occasion, and have been pleasantly surprised by some of the books I've chosen. Maybe I'll check out some from this list.

SheFly

[emily_in_nc]

As an English major and voracious reader, I am embarrassed to admit that I haven't even heard of most of these books! I'm strictly (almost) a pulp fiction reader - I want something that will entertain me, and that I can easily escape into. Basically, I want a TV show without TV (I once had an English professor who said that novels should be like TV for the mind. I guess it stuck). So, I read Kristen Hannah, Sandra Brown, Elin Hildebrand, Jodi Picoult, Anita Shreve, Chris Bohjalian... I do like to read New England-based authors - makes it slightly easier to envision the location of the story.

I am kind of the same, SheFly, and also haven't heard about most of the books or even authors being discussed in this thread. I like some of the same authors as you, along with southern authors, since I'm from the southeast, so authors like Anne Rivers Siddons, Dorothea Benton Frank, and others I can't even think of now fulfill that southern part of me. I also like crazy gory murder mysteries by James Patterson, Andrew Gross, Patricia Cornwell, and Jeffrey Deaver, Jonathan Kellerman, and the like. I make no apologies. Some of what I read is truly on the up and up, "literature", as it were, but as a psychology major, anything psychological is appealing to me, including biographies.

I read nothing but nonfiction for decades after graduation, for some reason, and have only started delving back into fiction since I retired in 2011 -- and realizing how very much I have been missing. My mother is very into British lit and British mysteries, so I've been getting into some of those as well, as she passes them along to me. I was skeptical but have ended up liking them quite a bit!

[salsabike]

The books others have mentioned aren't, I don't think, different from the ones that you guys just listed. I always feel a little badly when people put down what they read--to me, reading is GOOD. I don't really care what people read or whether it's in book, Kindle, audio, or any other form. Reading is wonderful, period.

By the way, Anne Rivers Siddons wrote one of the scariest books I have EVER read: "The House Next Door". I have reread it many times and every single time it is so quietly terrifying. Just got the goosebumps again thinking about it.

[lph]

I agree, Salsa, it's all good. I read the way I listen to music, to fulfill some need or desire. It can be entertainment or comfort or to challenge myself. I enjoy good writing much more than a good plot, a terrific plot described With cliched writing makes me want to chew my arm off, but I'll happily endure pages going nowhere if I enjoy the way it's described.

[OakLeaf]

I always feel a little badly when people put down what they read--to me, reading is GOOD. I don't really care what people read or whether it's in book, Kindle, audio, or any other form. Reading is wonderful, period.

+100 !!!!

I think I was pretty clear that I read a whole lot of noise in proportion to actual signal. :D I mentioned Seanan McGuire because she's some of the more entertaining trash I've read lately, but I read a LOT of trash that doesn't necessarily deserve any kind of a recommendation here. :D :D Reading is good!

[Catrin]

I read to escape and to relax. Most of what I read is genre, though I do love a lot of the 19th and 20th century Russian novelists and I am picky about the translater(s). I also enjoy good steam punk fiction and certain periods of historic fiction.

Sometimes I want to be challenged and made to think, sometimes I want what I call "mental candy". My point is that it is all good, reading is great no matter what/how/when/where. Read on!

I really enjoy this tread as I've discovered authors here I've not heard of!

[Crankin]

She Fly and Emily, I only read books by authors like you mentioned. I have been on an "adventure reading" kick, due to the virtual book club I joined, and my interest in endurance sports. But, my reading isn't heavy duty, except for some of the non-fiction, maybe. Heck, I was an English minor and English teacher; I have always disliked classic lit. Not only do I find it difficult because of the language, I like to read stories that i can connect to in some way. That might sound anti-intellectual, but reading is reading. I get the New Yorker every week, and make it a rule to get through the entire magazine in a week... so I get my fill of "high end" authors that way, in a short form. Sometimes, I do skip the major piece of fiction, if I can't get into it, but the non-fiction content keeps me very informed, too.
I love New England authors, too and took a whole course on southern lit in college.

[salsabike]

I read We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves over the winter, and really loved it..

OH! I just finished it. What an extraordinary, wonderful book.

I would just add: to those who haven't read it yet, it is better if you can read it without having read any reviews, interviews or other spoilers. It really does make a difference--so don't read these interviews yet.

[OakLeaf]

If you're interested, it was this interview (http://www.book****.com/features/2013_10_020334.php) with Karen Joy Fowler that originally led me to that book.

[Pax]

My ex's mom was highly educated, corporate VP, and very snobby... but she devoured romance novels. She called them "literary palate cleansers"; always made me crack up.

I'm a big fan of read whatever you want, but please read something! It forces our minds to think differently than images do, different is good. :D

[salsabike]

I couldn't get your link to work, Oak, so I went hunting. Was it this interview? http://karenjoyfowler.com/books/we-are-all-completely-beside-ourselves-qa/

[OakLeaf]

No, though it covers a lot of the same ground. I see now the link was censored. :rolleyes: The domain name is "books-l-u-t.com" without the dashes ...

[OakLeaf]

It forces our minds to think differently than images do, different is good. :D

Which of course brings up this article (http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/serious-reading-takes-a-hit-from-online-scanning-and-skimming-researchers-say/2014/04/06/088028d2-b5d2-11e3-b899-20667de76985_story.html?tid=pm_pop) that's gotten so much play in the last few days.

I'd always been skeptical of Leonard Shlain's scholarship in The Alphabet vs. the Goddess - as appealing to me as many of his ideas are - but this latest research kind of reinforces it in a sideways fashion.

My attention isn't what it used to be, but I'd attributed that to other things. To reference the other thread ... might be a good reason to go back to reading on the Kindle and not having all the distractions quite so close to hand ...

[Veronica]

That's a really fascinating article.

I've been doing a lot of testing this year on the computer, it's the direction high stakes testing is going. But a few of the tests the students did paper pencil in class first. Their paper pencil grades were almost always better than those on the computer.

The testing the students have to do is crazy. Fifth graders - 10 and 11 year olds - watch a video on a topic and take notes on the computer, read two articles on the computer about the same topic and then compose an essay. The practice tests are available here (http://sbac.portal.airast.org/practice-test/). Check out the ELA performance test. It's ridiculous!

Veronica

[emily_in_nc]

The books others have mentioned aren't, I don't think, different from the ones that you guys just listed. I always feel a little badly when people put down what they read--to me, reading is GOOD. I don't really care what people read or whether it's in book, Kindle, audio, or any other form. Reading is wonderful, period.

By the way, Anne Rivers Siddons wrote one of the scariest books I have EVER read: "The House Next Door". I have reread it many times and every single time it is so quietly terrifying. Just got the goosebumps again thinking about it.

Thanks, Salsa, both for the encouragement and the recommendation for The House Next Door -- that's one I haven't read. I put it on my "want to read" list.

By the way, I don't know how many on this thread are members of goodreads.com, but I find it a great place to read reviews, review and mark what I've read (so I don't forget - ha!), and get recommendations on other books I might like. It's a really fun site if you enjoy books.

[salsabike]

And it's ELEGANTLY written--just beautifully, quietly done. Let me know what you think whenever you get to it!

[Catrin]

I've started Gaim's "Neverwhere" and am very impressed. I recently read "American Gods" which I thought well written and very creative. "Neverwhere" might actually be better - and just as creative with a very different worldview. I love well written creative fantasy that isn't dependent on an attempt to recreate Tolkien. I do love Tolkien, btw, but too many have tried to recreate him rather than to find their own unique voice. I do like GOOD sword and sorcery fantasy, but there is so little out there is actually worth taking minutes from my life to read. "Neverwhere" is far from sword and sorcery, well developed characters, and the premise is quite creative.

This makes me even more inclined to start checking out all of his published works!

"House Next Door" sounds intriguing, I will check it out.

I really like my Nook (no glowlight, all I can connect to is the Nook store via WiFi). I prefer actual books for NON-fiction for some reason, but for fiction/relaxation/escape reading I almost prefer the Nook. While the kettlebell training appears to be helping my arthritic hands, the Nook is more comfortable to my hands than holding a book for long periods of time. I read more with it :D

I am on Good Reads as well. Isn't it possible to start a list there that multiple users can interact with? It might be very interesting to see a "TE Recommendations" list. I will check this out in the next day or so.

[Irulan]

I'm pretty sure there is a ton of us on Goodreads. Are a ton of us?

[emily_in_nc]

And it's ELEGANTLY written--just beautifully, quietly done. Let me know what you think whenever you get to it!

Will do! I love ARS' writing.

[thekarens]

I'm on Goodreads.

[finnporter]

"Neverwhere" was my first Gaiman and I have to say it ruined me for everything else. I think it's his best book. Not that the other one's aren't but Neverwhere is just a class of its own.

I'm currently catching up on all the things I didn't read way back when, but should've. So at the moment I'm burning through some Margaret Atwoods. And I keep wondering why I never made a point of reading all these books on my list.

I'm on Goodreads too, if anyone's interested. I promise I'll be better about updating my reading list ;)

[Catrin]

"Neverwhere" was my first Gaiman and I have to say it ruined me for everything else. I think it's his best book. Not that the other one's aren't but Neverwhere is just a class of its own.

I'm currently catching up on all the things I didn't read way back when, but should've. So at the moment I'm burning through some Margaret Atwoods. And I keep wondering why I never made a point of reading all these books on my list.

I'm on Goodreads too, if anyone's interested. I promise I'll be better about updating my reading list ;)

"Neverwhere" currently goes everywhere with me in case I've a few minutes to read even a few paragraphis, it is that good! I've been on Goodreads for a long time but haven't been consistent with it. I will get better at updating my reading/wanting to read lists :)

I still haven't checked on a multi-user reading list, and that probably won't happen until Sunday evening but I promise that I will do it.

[Veronica]

I've read Predictably Irrational this week which I found quite fascinating. I just finished the first book in the series Irulan suggested. I found it very hard to put down and have the second one loaded to begin reading. :D

Veronica

[Irulan]

Glad you liked my rec!

[Catrin]

Witthim - thanks for the recommendation for The Bellringers Quite a good book, and I am not usually one for political thrillers that aren't set in current times.

I did look at Goodreads, and there IS an option to start up a group. I could do that if there is enough interest, but that is probably overly complicated since we have this thread.

[Catrin]

Curious what people are reading right now.

I went to the library today and walked out with quite the eclectic collection:

Terry Pratchett's Raising Steam
Virgil's Aeneid (translated by Robert Fagles)
J.R.R. Tolkein's version of The Legend of Sigurd and Gudrun

Thankfully these books can be renewed, and will need to be - especially the second two. It's been years since I've gotten into epic verse however, and I've not read the Aeneid before. I figure since I am challenging my body as I've already begun training/preparing for GS (kettlebell sport) competition that it is a good time to also challenge my brain. Epic verse is almost like another language. It is captivating in a different way than prose when it is done well. I really want to read Tolkein's translation of Beowulf but my library still has it on order. Pratchett is for lunch-time reading :-)

I also checked out a CD version of Pratchett & Gaim's Good Omen. I spend 30 minutes in the car every morning and evening and am so tired of the local radio stations and the repetitive content on NPR. I've not listened to a book for a long time.

[thekarens]

Just finished the latest Harry Dresden novel and am reading Benedict Jacka's Chosen. Looking forward to the latest Meredith Gentry novel that comes out Tuesday.

I admire those that read to learn and exercise the brain, but I only read for entertainment.

[Catrin]

Just finished the latest Harry Dresden novel and am reading Benedict Jacka's Chosen. Looking forward to the latest Meredith Gentry novel that comes out Tuesday.

I admire those that read to learn and exercise the brain, but I only read for entertainment.

I didn't say it wasn't entertaining :-) I love what captivates my little pea brain, and the old massive epic poems DO if they are translated well. They open up a very different world, very enjoyable - that is why I like them. Of course, Dostoevsky is my favorite all-time author so that probably says something.

I've read some of the Harry Dresden novels and enjoyed them, that is another author I want to read more of. I am really looking forward to the combination of Pratchett and Gaim, two of my favorite more modern authors. I recently read Gaim's "Neverwhere" and found it, well, astoundingly good!

I am also finishing up Barbara Cleverly's Bright Hair About the Bone, the second of the Leatitia Talbot Mysteries. Enjoyable, and there is always a bit of tie into history in her books, at least the ones I've so far read.

[thekarens]

I didn't say it wasn't entertaining :-) I love what captivates my little pea brain, and the old massive epic poems DO if they are translated well. They open up a very different world, very enjoyable - that is why I like them. Of course, Dostoevsky is my favorite all-time author so that probably says something.

I've read some of the Harry Dresden novels and enjoyed them, that is another author I want to read more of. I am really looking forward to the combination of Pratchett and Gaim, two of my favorite more modern authors. I recently read Gaim's "Neverwhere" and found it, well, astoundingly good!

If it's entertaining then that's even more awesome. You work the brain and get some entertainment to boot, awesome combo!

[salsabike]

Recently finished Junot Diaz' The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao, which was amazing--read his other two books right afterwards. Now starting the latest Harry Dresden.

[Crankin]

Wow, I don't challenge myself with that kind of reading, Catrin! Too much like school. My reading is strictly for pleasure or informational/professional.
I am in the process of reading Maeve Binchy's last book. It was published after she died. It's actually a collection of very short stories, all based on characters on Chestnut St. in Dublin, called Chestnut Street. I generally don't read too many short story collections, and this reminds me I should. I skipped May's selection of the Woman's Adventure Book Club, but I did download the June one, which is Miles From Nowhere, and it's about a cycling trip, I think in the seventies?

[BikeDutchess]

Miles from Nowhere is still my all-time favorite cycling trip book! I didn't realize it was available in an e-reader version, thanks!

[Catrin]

Crankin, I guess that is just an indication of subconscious masochistic tendencies because it IS for pleasure ;-) Then again, it takes some of that to even consider training for kettlebell sport so it probably isn't a surprise!

All of you keep getting me interested in Harry Dresden - once I've completed my current Terry Pratchett book (lunch time reading), I will see what my library has for Harry Dresden. I also have other Gaim books to read on my list.

[shootingstar]

One of my birthday gifts to dearie in a few weeks, is a book I bought for him which I'm sneaking in my read: By the Canadian astronaut who played guitar in space, Chris Hadfield: An Astronaut's Guide to Life on Earth.

I really recommend it: it's his autobiography not only about how astronauts train, more about life lessons the humbling experience of training hard to fly for space but in the end, most astronauts, don't get selected to fly. So it's all about the journey, in the moment, instead of the goal itself.

Also there's a piece about training for a one's own death, in case an astronaut die should accidentally on a space mission.

Here's a great quote (p. 35): "See a funny thing happened on the way to space: I learned how to live better and more happily, here on Earth".

And for experienced cyclists here, we all know for difficult rides, it's all about enjoying the journey, not just the destination/goal itself

[Irulan]

I adore Cmmdr Hadfield. His twitter feed and facebook page are awesome.

[Owlie]

I've been reading The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer. The biology is a little simplistic, but I can forgive it for that. It's an interesting read.

[ny biker]

I'm in the middle of Chris Hadfield's book and also started reading the free Kindle version of Mark Twain's Life on the Mississippi recently. I'm enjoying both.

My first Kindle read was another free book, A Rogue's Life by Wilkie Collins. It was amusing, except for a huge bit of anti-Semitism in one chapter that I did not like.

So far my strategy of buying a Kindle to make reading more convenient is paying off. I've downloaded more than 20 free books. Most are pretty obscure, like writings by Teddy Roosevelt and memoirs by unfamous men who fought in World War I or the Civil War. But there's no risk if I don't like them, since they were free, and they might turn out to be interesting.

BTW Chris Hadfield is working on another book, a compilation of the photos he took from while on the ISS.

[salsabike]

Hey, nybiker--my husband bought a thumb drive from American Science and Surplus for $13---called the "e-library" in their catalog. It has over 3000 public access Kindle books. Plenty of classics, including Jane Austen. Plenty of obscure stuff too, but lots and lots of interesting books for darn near nothing. He's been sharing them out with friends, too.

[OakLeaf]

I'm switching back and forth between two short story collections right now. One classic - The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven by Sherman Alexie - and one new, Kabu Kabu by Nnedi Okorafor. Each collection by itself is pretty incredible but the combination is just mindblowing!

[Catrin]

I adore Cmmdr Hadfield. His twitter feed and facebook page are awesome.

You got me curious about this man Irulan, I've not heard of him. Very interesting indeed!

[Irulan]

I'm in the middle of Chris Hadfield's book and also started reading the free Kindle version of Mark Twain's Life on the Mississippi recently. I'm enjoying both.

My first Kindle read was another free book, A Rogue's Life by Wilkie Collins. It was amusing, except for a huge bit of anti-Semitism in one chapter that I did not like.

So far my strategy of buying a Kindle to make reading more convenient is paying off. I've downloaded more than 20 free books. Most are pretty obscure, like writings by Teddy Roosevelt and memoirs by unfamous men who fought in World War I or the Civil War. But there's no risk if I don't like them, since they were free, and they might turn out to be interesting.

BTW Chris Hadfield is working on another book, a compilation of the photos he took from while on the ISS.

I was getting those daily on my twitter feed. Those photos are what got me onto Twitter, actually. He's done some really cool things in terms of bring the space program truly into the new century. His videos on YouTube are a hoot - everything from how astronauts brush their teeth to why you need music in space. Love that guy!

E books - lots of free and cheap down loads off off Book Bub. They offer new realeases and publishers specials at a huge discount.

[shootingstar]

I'm enjoying his book..which I'm trying to finish in 2 wks. because I have to wrap up this birthday gift. :) He would be a fabulous speaker because there were so many life lessons he learned in his training and space walks.

Frankly I didn't have a tv nor was I paying attention when he was in space.
Admittedly a lot of Canadians probably see him as Chris Hatfield, instead of Commander...though that was his formal title.

By coincidence the Canadarm that was described...I think version 1 or 2 was being built in huge lab in building where my brother-in-law had his faculty office --north end of Toronto (Downsview), University of Toronto. There is an Institute for Aerospace Studies --aerospace engineering. I did see the huge arm....behind glass viewing window.

[Veronica]

I'm finally reading The Book Thief and really enjoying it.

I've got the third book in the Saxon series, Bel Canto, and Dangerous Women on my tablet. I think I'm also going to get the Chris Hadfield book and All the Light We Cannot See. It's a ten hour flight to Ecuador, plus time on the ground. Internet access will be spotty, so I want to have them before we go. I love summer vacation because I can read adult books. :D I did just plow through the first three books in the 7 Wonders series by Peter Lerangis. Like Rick Riordan did with Roman, Greek and Egyptian gods, he's taken what could be a tired topic and made it into a fascinating adventure series for 10 year olds.

Veronica

[Veronica]

I forgot, I also read Pi in the Sky by Wendy Mass. She is one of my favorite children's authors. Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life and A Mango Shaped Space were both amazing reads.

Veronica

[emily_in_nc]

Just finished The Heretic's Daughter by Kathleen Kent -- a beautifully written book. If you're interested in the Salem witch trials, check it out: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3181953-the-heretic-s-daughter

Now reading a very lightweight James Patterson mystery, The 9th Judgment.

[Pax]

Reading Start the Conversation (http://www.amazon.com/Start-Conversation-About-Death-Hoping/dp/0446672807#) again. Having a rough go right now dealing with my moms death and that book has helped me immensely in the past.

[PamNY]

Reading Start the Conversation (http://www.amazon.com/Start-Conversation-About-Death-Hoping/dp/0446672807#) again. Having a rough go right now dealing with my moms death and that book has helped me immensely in the past.

(((Pax))). Thanks for that recommendation. I'd never heard of that book but it sounds like something that might be useful to me.

[Pax]

(((Pax))). Thanks for that recommendation. I'd never heard of that book but it sounds like something that might be useful to me.
Pam, it's a good book to read a little, then sit and think about what you read. Honestly it took away my fear of death when I read it the first time. Very helpful.

[Catrin]

I've been listening to "Good Omens" in my car (by Pratchett and Gaiman) and having a great time listening to it. I suspect I will then have to read it :-)

[BikeDutchess]

Diana Gabaldon's latest book in the Outlander series came out today: "Written in My Own Heart's Blood." Downloaded it to my Kindle app late last night and plan to spend a lot of my free time the next few weeks reading all 848 pages!

[thekarens]

Diana Gabaldon's latest book in the Outlander series came out today: "Written in My Own Heart's Blood." Downloaded it to my Kindle app late last night and plan to spend a lot of my free time the next few weeks reading all 848 pages!

I started that one today as well.

[thekarens]

Okay, need a new book and I'm trying to decide between The Goldfinch, Pillars of the Earth and World Without End. The last two are based off a recommendation from a friend. Any thoughts?

[Catrin]

Okay, need a new book and I'm trying to decide between The Goldfinch, Pillars of the Earth and World Without End. The last two are based off a recommendation from a friend. Any thoughts?

It depends what you are in the mood for :-) Pillars of the Earth comes before World Without End and I've really enjoyed it, I do enjoy well written historical novels. I've not read The Goldfinch, but it looks quite interesting? Hmmmm :)

[Crankin]

I just started a biography of Josephine Bonaparte. It's really good, but you have to like history, geography, political science to get through this. It's not a fictionalized account, it's a real biography. I haven't read a book like this in awhile. I mostly read historical fiction.

[Irulan]

I started that one today as well.

I just can't believe there's be anything new to say. I gave up on that series after about #5 I think.

[Owlie]

I just started a biography of Josephine Bonaparte. It's really good, but you have to like history, geography, political science to get through this. It's not a fictionalized account, it's a real biography. I haven't read a book like this in awhile. I mostly read historical fiction.

Sounds right up my alley! What's the title?

[Crankin]

The Rose of Martinque: A Life of Napoleon's Josephine, by Andrea Stuart.

[thekarens]

I just can't believe there's be anything new to say. I gave up on that series after about #5 I think.

I loved all her books and this one as well. It's some of the best story telling I've ever read. Not quite up there with my love of Tolkien, GRRM or Sanderson, but close. She just tells a really good story.

As for my decision whether to go with Pillars of the Earth or The Goldfinch, I started The Goldfinch last night.

[Catrin]

...
As for my decision whether to go with Pillars of the Earth or The Goldfinch, I started The Goldfinch last night.

I just noticed the spellchecker on my phone did something strange in my last post, gotta love technology!

I am interested, let me know what you think of The Goldfinch. Sounds like I might need to read it soon!

[Sky King]

I am about 1/2 in to the Goldfinch- is quite interesting and sure takes some twists.

Two others I just finished and enjoyed immensely

The House Girl by Tara Conklin
Dear Life: Stories by Alice Monroe


I just noticed the spellchecker on my phone did something strange in my last post, gotta love technology!

I am interested, let me know what you think of The Goldfinch. Sounds like I might need to read it soon!

[Jolt]

I am currently reading The Ukimwi Road by Dervla Murphy. Maybe some of you have heard of her; she is from Ireland and tours different places by bike and writes about her travels. This book is about a trip through East Africa during the 1990s and so far it is really fascinating.

[CyclChyk]

You guys are reading books with such substance that I feel silly recommending Joe Hill, or even the dreaded Stephen King....:-( but I did read The Fault in Our Stars last year and it is an AMAZING read.... Don't think the movie will be able to do it justice.

[salsabike]

I like both Joe Hill and Stephen King. :)

[Irulan]

I
Diana Gabaldon's latest book in the Outlander series came out today: "Written in My Own Heart's Blood." Downloaded it to my Kindle app late last night and plan to spend a lot of my free time the next few weeks reading all 848 pages!

I did read this morning that Starz network is doing a mini series based on #1. Anyone know anything about this? It could be awesome or horrible.
http://www.starz.com/originals/outlander

[BikeDutchess]

Yes, but only from what I read on Diana Gabaldon's Facebook page. I'm still on the fence on whether I'd want to see it, for the reason you stated! Already the actress chosen to play Claire is completely different from what I pictured in my mind.

[brigada]

I'm currently reading Washington Square by Henry James. It's for uni, but I'm enjoying it. It's a great book for close reading because there are so many nuances to pick up on. Other than that, I'm reading some handbook on starting a business in Russia, haha. It's for learning the economy-specific vocabulary, however, I have no entrepreneurial aspirations in Russia at the moment :D

[thekarens]

I like both Joe Hill and Stephen King. :)

Ditto! The Stand is probably my favorite King novel.

[CyclChyk]

I like both Joe Hill and Stephen King. :)

I recently bought on Nook Mr. Mercedes (King) and NOS4A2 (Hill).... I am so excited to read both that I don't know which one to start first and have been procrastinating... LOL

[thekarens]

NOS4A2 is excellent! I'm on the waiting list at my library for Mr. Mercedes.

[CyclChyk]

NOS4A2 is excellent! I'm on the waiting list at my library for Mr. Mercedes.

Thank you for your input and helping me decide. I've been craving some Joe Hill so that is the one I will read this weekend. ��

[Crankin]

I am also reading Boston's Bicycling Craze 1880-1900, by Lorenz Finison. He spoke at my club's rally. It's about the socio-political-racial/feminist issues that were involved in the cycling craze at that time. A bit academic, but good.