Spotlight Wednesdays

The spotlight today is Mary, another cousin. (Anyone noticing a theme around here?) She is also  Sarah's sister. She is a new mommy to an adorable baby boy and a very talented musician.  And her husband makes shoes, how cool is that? :)

1. Do you have a favorite author or genre? And if so what do you find most appealing about them?


I go in phases.  I'm usually up for a good fantasy, though.  I like stories that pull me in, whatever the genre.


2. If you could have tea (or lunch, or any meal really, tea just feels more book clubbish, doesn't it?) with any three characters from all of literature who would it be?


umm. . . foggy brain. . .


3. Do you have a favorite reading or book related quote


Well. . . I thought about looking one up, but the truth is I really don't.  The song from Reading Rainbow does come to mind, however. . .


4. Where is your favorite place to read?


Lately, on the couch or in my bed (often while I'm nursing.) When I was in middle school, I used to make a nest of sorts out of pillows and blankets and just stay there all day, reading.  Drove my brother nuts.


5. Do you have any funny reading quirks? (Like having to read things in numerical order or not reading books that start with the letter Q? Something like that?)

I definitely like to read things in order, and all the way through.  I'm a little peeved right now because my library doesn't have the 4th Wee Free Men book.  


I go in long phases when I feel like if I'm eating, I should be reading.  Now is not one of those phases, because it's a little hard to eat and nurse and read.  (If you haven't guessed by now, I have a new baby. :)  He's six weeks on Thursday.)  

It's really hard for me to stop reading when I'm not in a stopping place.  "Let me just finish this chapter" is a sentence I have spoken probably way too many times.  Especially since one chapter often turns into two. . .

Other things tend to seem unimportant when I'm into a book.  I rarely read for recreation during school.  If I did, chances are my homework didn't get done that night, but the book definitely did.

Don't know if any of that is really quirky, but there you go.

6. How many books are currently by your bed (on your nightstand or on the floor?) How many of those are you in the middle of reading?


I don't dabble in multiple books at a time.  I read one all the way through before moving on to the next.  I'm that way with food too--I'm not a mixer.  That being said, I do have a stack of Reader's Digest by my bed at the moment since my mom gave them to me for middle-of-the-night nursing entertainment.


7. Do you have a favorite children's book?


The first one that comes to mind is The Tawny Lion.  I love the resourceful rabbit.  Soup never sounded so good.


8. What is your earliest book related memory?


My early reading memories are actually negative.  I hated learning to read.  It was so hard at first.  I was not at all convinced that I would actually need it in life like my mom said.  I'm not sure when it happened, but eventually I fell in love with it.


Another early memory I have is a recurring nightmare I had after someone read me Puff the Magic Dragon as a bedtime story.


9. What is most amount of money you have ever had to pay in library fines?


I'm not sure I have ever paid a fine.  I maybe paid 25 cents once. . .


10. Do you have any great story to share about trying to multi-task while reading? (i.e. walking into something while your nose was in a book?)


Mostly just my husband getting frustrated if I try to read while he's talking to me.

Spotlight Wednesdays

The spotlight this week is one of my very favorite people, and frequent partner in crime, my sister Caitlin.  Caite is hilarious, especially since a lot of the time people have this image of her as a quiet, little thing and then are quite taken aback by her sharp and witty intellect. I love it. We always have the most fun together and usually enjoy the same taste in books, movies, hobbies, and desserts. She is the best aunt in the world and my children adore her. She is taking a sabbatical from school right, but is working to become a Rad-Tech.  I know that means she takes x-rays of people, and she has some very funny stories that you should ask her about.  I could go on and on, but really that would be gushing now wouldn't it. So I'll just let you read on and get to know her in her own words.

1. Do you have a favorite author or genre? And if so what do you find most appealing about them?

I love fantasy adventure and romance novels. Real life can be so blah at times—it’s nice to escape to an alternate world of magic, danger, and costume balls for a time. (Even if it’s only between loads of laundry.) I’m also a huge fan of satire and humorists.  I really enjoy a book that can challenge my current perceptions while still making me smile.

2. If you could have tea (or lunch, or any meal really, tea just feels more book clubbish, doesn't it?) with any three characters from all of literature who would it be?

Hmm…tricky. I think I’d pick Nanny Ogg, Albus Dumbledore, and Ebenezer Scrooge. I believe that would be the most lively and interesting conversation I’d ever be a part of.

3. Do you have a favorite reading or book related quote?

I’ve been on a Terry Pratchett kick and these are some of my favorites:

 “Fantasy is an exercise bicycle for the mind. It might not take you anywhere, but it tones up the muscles that can. Of course, I could be wrong…”

“Wisdom comes from experience. Experience is often a result of lack of wisdom.”

“Stories of imagination tend to upset those without one.”

“This book was written using %100 recycled words.”

4. Where is your favorite place to read?

In the corner of the brake room, the bed, the overstuffed chair in the library, possibly the toilet if I ate something disagreeable, but definitely not outdoors. For whatever reason, I believe books were meant to be enjoyed while sitting someplace warm, dry and preferably snug—and in all my experience, reading outdoors has always equated to damp grass stains or sand in unmentionable places, two factors which utterly disrupt my literary enjoyment.

5. Do you have any funny reading quirks? (Like having to read things in numerical order or not reading books that start with the letter Q? Something like that?)

A series must always be read in chronological order—otherwise it wouldn’t be a series, it’d be a collection. I only read books that have descriptions in the jacket or on the back—I don’t read the last pages, but I’d still like to know what I’m getting into. I also have a general rule that if the author’s picture takes up more space than the description it probably isn’t worth the effort.

6. How many books are currently by your bed (on your nightstand or on the floor?) How many of those are you in the middle of reading?

I actually just cleaned my room, so there are only two on my nightstand at the moment…both in progress. However, there are ten more waiting at a discreet distance on my dresser.

7. Do you have a favorite children's book?

I loved The Borrowers and Raggedy Ann in Candy Land.

8. What is your earliest book related memory?

I remember writing my name on the title page of a library book I didn’t want to return…Mom made sure I never did it again. Conversely, I remember two years later in first grade, that the school librarian would always let me check out five books when the limit was actually two because I took such good care of them and always brought them back on time.

9. What is most amount of money you have ever had to pay in library fines?

*Cough* Well, obviously my good behavior from first grade didn’t last…at least as far as timeliness was concerned….I believe the most I’ve paid is…um…$48.00…

10. Do you have any great story to share about trying to multi-task while reading? (i.e. walking into something while your nose was in a book?)

Actually I think my funniest story stems from my lack of ability to multi-task while reading.

I’ve always had the gift (or curse, depending on your point of view) of tuning everything else out when I’m really reading. You know, not just skimming, but nose pressed to the pages kind of thing… Anyway, it was 9^th Grade and we had dedicated reading time during 1^st period. I got really into the story and didn’t hear the girl next to me ask to borrow a pencil, didn’t hear the teacher remind us about the pep assembly after class, totally ignored the bell, and missed the fact that everyone walked out (in my defense I was craned over my desk with my hands propping my head up so I couldn’t see what was going on around me, plus the teacher led the way –which in this class meant everyone walked quietly in single file—and I was at the end of my row, so I didn’t sense anyone pass me.)

Fifteen minutes and one excellent chapter later, I rose from my literary stupor and was really confused as to where everyone had gone and how I’d missed it. My teacher moved me to the front after that.

Quite delightful...

I finished Sorcery and Cecelia last night. I thought it was a fun and enjoyable read. I have to admit that I found the magic elements a tad jarring. The setting is regency England (think Jane Austen), which is my favorite of all the eras; I have read literally hundreds of books set in this time period, and I have never read one quite like this. It was an age of reason and scientific discoveries, so to throw in an acceptance of magic that felt more like a throw back to medieval times kept tripping me up.  I thought that they captured the language and sensibility of the age perfectly though, and I definitely want to read the next in the series and see what happens next to both pairs of lovers.

I will be very interested to hear everybody's opinions and comparisons next month when the selection is Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice.  And I am considering hosting a P&P party at my house later in the month to watch the excellent BBC version starring Colin Firth as a most delicious Mr. Darcy.  Anyone interested in joining us? (I say us because I know that Caitlin is a given without having to ask her....) Then we can have a spirited discussion about book vs. movie.  :)

A quick thought

So I'm not done with the book yet (so I kind of skipped Tiffany's post until I'm done)
But one of my favorite parts so far was when the odious Thomas was able to track down Kate by following her hair pins. I found that hilarious because many a times I have been scolded by my husband about my hair pins and their many places to be found (he's especially upset when they are found in his shoes).

Also, is any one else noticing that they use the word "odious" MANY times. I'm hoping they learn more about him so he can be describes as something other that odious. Odious, odious, odious.

I am enjoying the book, however; I don't want my short little story to imply that I don't. It makes me want to write my dear cousins more often!  I am excited to continue reading!

-Elena Loo

An Unexpected Turn of Events

I'm not done reading this month's book, but I have another topic in mind that I'd like your opinions on; namely, the biggest question to be argued over amongst well-read people the world over--its controversy akin to the Nature vs. Nurture debate--which are better, books or movies?

Now, let me be frank, I have been a fence-sitter on this issue in the past. I love books and movies equally. I believe books have the power to introduce new worlds to the human imagination and possess an amazing capacity for flexibility. For example, even though we can all read the same book, we will all see a different version of the story and meet different characters based on our unique points of view and individual subconscious whims. And there is no limit to what we can create in our minds!

I also love movies. I love the way they can impact the senses and pack so much emotion into so short a time. I always leave epic films feeling slightly exhausted--having lived the course of an entire tale in the space of a few hours. I enjoy seeing someone else's interpretation of a story and the way that were able to imagine something that would never have occurred to me--it's an exciting way to open your mind to new possibilities!

However, that being said, when it comes down to it and they turn a book into a movie, I have always enjoyed the book a little bit more. Maybe it's because the book can provide more plot substance and character detail because it has no budget or time restrictions...I don't really know. But about a month ago I experienced something totally alien...I found a book I didn't like as much as the movie!

It was "Stardust" by Neil Gaiman. I found the book on CD and thought it would be fun to listen to during my commute to/from work. When I first saw the movie by the same title and based off his work, I was caught totally by surprise. I found the story and characters unexpected, refreshing, and fun--above all fun. I left the theatre smiling to myself and quoting my favorite parts over and over again. And as soon as it came out on DVD I snatched it up to take it home to enjoy it again. So, when I saw the book in the library I thought, "Hot dog! This is going to be awesome. I loved the movie so I bet the book will be even better!"

About three quarters of the way through the CDs I finally gave up. Where was the humor I admired in the movie? Why did the characters strike me as more whiny and less lovable than I recalled?And why, in heaven's name, was my all-time favorite character from the show only mentioned in brief passing in the book and then apparently forgotten as being inconsequential? I was shocked. This wasn't right. This wasn't how the world worked. Books were always better than movies...

Which leads to the one question I haven't been able to answer myself yet: Is it really true that books are always better? Or is it that whichever way we experience the story first is the way we will cherish in our memories?

Thoughts, anyone?

Oui free men

You know that book we read in January....

I finally finished it. I even laughed out loud a few times. I don't know if I will read the rest of the series, but only because the stack on my end table is too high already and I find my new church calling is leaving me less time to read. But if I ever am at a lack for something to read I think I'll be able to turn to Mr. Prachett. I loved the Free Men. I loved the first, second and third thoughts. I loved how the 'magic' was explained, but that doesn't make it not magic, because that's the same thing we do for our children. I loved how the battle plan was, "If you see something, attack it." I loved how Tiffany beat the Quin by being confident in herself and who she was, and honestly, I liked that she was a little bit selfish. That she defended her family just because it was hers. I could go on, but I won't. There are so many gems that you just need to discover them on your own.

Thanks for introducing me to some very enjoyable people, Caite.

Spotlight Wednesdays

Our spotlight this week is Tiffany! (Just so you all know, I'll be posting these in the order I get them.  And I still haven't gotten everyones' questionnaire back, *hint hint* wink wink *nudge nudge*...)  Okay, back to Tiffany, who is another of my cousins and in a lot of ways we could be twins only separated by the nine years age difference and the fact that we were born to different mothers... :) Tiff has an adorable one year old daughter and both she and her husband are going to school at BYU-Idaho. 

1. Do you have a favorite author or genre? And if so what do you find most appealing about them? 

I love to read good stories that keep you from your responsibilities--the ones that are so charming or clever or captivating that you cant put it down. I do enjoy regency era books, murder mysteries, and books that replenish my spirit.

2. If you could have tea (or lunch, or any meal really, tea just feels more book clubbish, doesn't it?) with any three characters from all of literature who would it be?

The Wee Free Men, Dr. Temperance Brennan, and Sheharazade

3. Do you have a favorite reading or book related quote?

I have two.

"The good ended happily and the bad unhappily. That is what fiction means." --Miss Prism, Importance of Being Earnest

"If you have never said "Excuse me" to a parking meter or bashed your shins on a fireplug, you are probably wasting too much valuable reading time."--Sherri Chasin Calvo

4. Where is your favorite place to read?

In bed, late at night while its still and quiet and I'm too relaxed to sleep, so I snuggle in bed and keep the bedside lamp on into the night! (Steven has built up an amazing immunity to light...he is able to sleep right through it!)

5. Do you have any funny reading quirks? (Like having to read things in numerical order or not reading books that start with the letter Q? Something like that?)

I can't read a book if someone suffers/suffered from abuse during childhood. I can't read a book of the heroine's name is retarded. I also can't read a book if it doesn't have an interesting/unique plot.

6. How many books are currently by your bed (on your nightstand or on the floor?) How many of those are you in the middle of reading?

About 15 on my bed stand and several on Steven's bed stand. (I really sound like an awful wife but he actually offers to be so sweet and lets me get away with stuff...)

7. Do you have a favorite children's book?

Stinky Cheese Man
Parts
Nursery Rhymes

8. What is your earliest book related memory?

I read these history books that had important events and the related stories in each, like the Abraham Lincoln story, or the Boston tea party, or the trail of tears. I must have been about six. It was when we used to live in Farmington. 

9. What is most amount of money you have ever had to pay in library fines?

It must have been just under $30.

10. Do you have any great story to share about trying to multi-task while reading? (i.e. walking into something while your nose was in a book?)

I used to do my reading for classes with Kaia. I would hold the book with one hand and highlight with the other hand....thank goodness Chrissy passed her boppy pillow on to me...

Sorcery & Cecilia

WARNING: I MIGHT BE SPOILING A BIT OF THE BOOK'S ENDING, SO IF YOU HAVEN'T FINISHED OR DON'T WANT TO KNOW,  DON'T READ THIS POST UNTIL AFTER YOU'VE FINISHED THE BOOK. YOU'VE BEEN WARNED.

I finished the book on Sunday. I've had a nasty head cold, but the bright side of things, it allowed me to have an excuse to do nothing but read.

I had a hard time keeping up with the new characters...might just be my scatter-brained mind. I felt that a lot of new characters were introduced all at once. However, this was the only "con" if you want to call it that. On the other hand, the book had an intriguing storyline, I loved the correspondence between Kate and Cecilia. I realized I had reached the last letter going, "What? It's at the end already?" Not knowing what was about to happen with either character had me hooked and I seriously had no choice but to keep reading. It had a very Barbara Cartland feel to it--not so much the amount of drama that you'd find in her books, but the characters and conversations led me to think that I was reading one of her books. I thought it was AWESOME that both Kate and Cecilia had the whole Mr. Darcy-Pride-and-Prejudice thing going on with their future hubbies, Thomas and James. I loved how Cecilia took matters into her own hands and performed the simplest and clearest way to solve Thomas's problem--smash the darn chocolate pot! I think I will be reading the rest of the series....

Thanks, Sarah, for the book recommendation!

Spotlight Wednesdays

Our spotlight this week is Stacy.  She is a friend of my cousin Sarah and they take their kids to story time together.  That is all I know about her so far, but if she is a friend of Sarah then she must be pretty cool.   So welcome Stacy! I enjoyed getting to know you through your spotlight a little bit. Especially your answer to #10... it's good to know I'm not the only one who's done that. :)

1. Do you have a favorite author or genre? And if so what do you find most appealing about them?


I've really enjoyed Dan Brown's novels.  I think they're so full of information that it gives me lots to think about. Plus, they're fast paced, so I'm not reading about what a door looked like for a few pages...


2. If you could have tea (or lunch, or any meal really, tea just feels more book clubbish, doesn't it?) with any three characters from all of literature who would it be?  


Junie B. Jones, let's face it.  She's hilarious. Molly Weasley, and Nancy Drew.  Can you tell I'm sophisticated?


3. Do you have a favorite reading or book related quote? 


"Anyone who says they only have one life to live must not know how to read a book."


4. Where is your favorite place to read?


In bed.  It's cozy.


5. Do you have any funny reading quirks? (Like having to read things in numerical order or not reading books that start with the letter Q? Something like that?) 


I don't think so. Except for that I always feel like I have to be munching on something while I'm reading.  So, this book club might lead to a few extra pounds. :S


6. How many books are currently by your bed (on your nightstand or on the floor?) 


How many of those are you in the middle of reading? 2 and 2.  Told you I'm not a super reader.


7. Do you have a favorite children's book? 


I have too many favorite Children's books.  But if I had to choose, I'd say "Little Black Sambo"


8. What is your earliest book related memory? 


My mom reading "Little Black Sambo" to me.


9. What is most amount of money you have ever had to pay in library fines? 


$3 exactly.  


10. Do you have any great story to share about trying to multi-task while reading? (i.e. walking into something while your nose was in a book?)  


Only dropping a book on my baby because I fell asleep while nursing, but I'm sure we've all done that.  Right? ...Right?

Socery and Cecelia or The Enchanted Chocolate Pot

I was first drawn in by the title.  Who wouldn't want to read about a chocolate pot?  And of course there is magic, I'm always a fan of that.  Then there are the strong female characters.  Um...hello.  Looks who's picking the book here.  If it's one of mine it pretty much has to have a strong female character.  But don't forget the love story, because a good book has to have one of those too.

When I first finished this book it was late at night (as per usual) and I wanted so badly to talk about it with someone.  I was thoroughly entranced, not just by the book, but by the way it was written.  This is a book written by two authors, who are friends.  Patricia C Wrede and Caroline Stevermer are both authors who hang out and have lunch, etc.  One day they decided to pick a character and write each other letters as that character and this book was born!    They didn't discuss it, they just wrote it.  Amazing.

I don't really know what else to say...Victorian-ish era, magic, evil sorcerers, and a love story.   I hope you enjoy it.